Strong start for Proton with Q1 market share highest since March 2012

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 for more information.

Proton’s resurgence continued into 2021 with strong monthly sales for the first three months, with March recording the highest volume of 14,989 units (including exports). It was 26.2% higher than the February numbers, which is estimated at 23.5% share of the market, and this volume was also the best sales month since September 2013.

Maintaining its second position on the sales chart, Proton’s cumulative sales for the first quarter (Q1) of the year totalled 32,826 units, giving the brand its highest quarterly market share figure since March 2012.

The top-selling model in March was the Saga with 5,589 units delivered, an increase of 32.5% compared to February. The Persona, Iriz and Exora also posted their best figures for the year with the MPV being the leader in C-segment MPV sales.

SUV sales keep growing

SUV sales continued to grow and more vehicles could be delivered as the new production line at the Tanjung Malim factory enabled higher output. In total, 3,513 units of the X50 were delivered to customers while the X70 saw a month-on-month increase of 58.4% to 2,337 units. When combined, Proton set another internal record with 5,850 SUVs delivered, beating the previous record of 4,820 units that was set in February.

“After a soft start to the year, Malaysia’s automotive industry has finally hit its stride for 2021. We estimate Total Industry Volume to be over 63,000 units, suggesting all brands will post their best numbers for the year to date. For Proton, March was a very good sales month as we achieved our highest figure in 90 months but our sense of achievement is tempered by the fact that it could have been even better if we were able to produce more units,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.

“As things stand, we still have a large order bank to fulfil so over the next few months, Proton will strive to increase production while maintaining our focus on delivering high quality products. We are also mindful that the PENJANA incentives are currently due to expire by the end June, so we aim to ensure as many customers as possible are able to enjoy the tax holiday given by the government,” he added.

New production line at the Tanjung Malim factory has increased output of vehicles.

More loan disbursements

“While the increase in unit sales of Proton vehicles has been our main focus, it is important to acknowledge the growth in loan disbursements by Proton Commerce Sdn Bhd, our in-house auto financing subsidiary. This proves we are offering attractive financing packages to our customers and can compete against other players in the automotive finance market,” Encik Roslan said.

Nearly 4,000 loans were disbursed in Q1 2021 with an estimated 1,700 contracted in March alone. The latter figure is equivalent to a 122% growth over February and overall, disbursements for the first quarter of the year are up by 141% over 2020.

“More importantly, customers can enjoy the convenience of purchasing and financing their new Proton from our authorized dealers, making our outlets a one-stop centre for all their Proton needs,” added Encik Roslan.

With greater attention to overseas business, Proton aims to double export volumes in 2021


Lower toll rates on PLUS highways start after midnight today

If you are travelling on a PLUS highway tonight, don’t forget that after midnight, toll rates will be 18% lower. So pull over at a R&R for a teh tarik and delay your exit till after midnight. If you’re coming from Juru in the north and exiting at Jalan Duta in Kuala Lumpur, you can save almost RM8.  You might get a special welcome from the PLUS people too as they are gathered there tonight for a symbolic ceremony to mark the occasion.

The PLUS-operated highways which will have toll reductions are the North-South Expressway (NSE), the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), the North-South Expressway Central Link (ELITE), the Malaysia-Singapore Second Crossing (LINKEDUA), the Seremban-Port Dickson Highway (SPDH), the Butterworth – Kulim Expressway (BKE), the East-Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), and the Penang Bridge.

The 18% reduction follows an agreement with the Ministry of Finance in exchange for an extension of the concession another 20 years until 2058. The reduction applies to all Passenger Vehicles (Class 1), Taxis (Class 4) and Buses (Class 5) and will remain unchanged until the concession ends. Toll charges for lorries (Classes 2 & 3) will also remain unchanged  until the end of the concession in 2058.

PLUS has agreed to make the reduction as well as maintain the highways without any compensation or further funding from the government. Thus, apart from savings for the average of 1.7 million highway users each day, taxpayers will also not be paying for the upkeep of PLUS highways. PLUS has given assurance that its services and operations will not stagnate and aims to provide improvements as the years go by, as well as enhance the travelling experience on its highways.

Lower toll rates on PLUS highways – but not in time for Chinese New Year travel


JPJ Introduces New ‘BRK’ plate, Netizens Have a Laugh!

Image source: JPJ

Don’t you just find it entertaining going through the comment section and reading the creative minds of our netizens?

Recently, JPJ announced that the number plate ‘BRK’ will be up for bidding on their online auction platform. And as expected, the Malaysian netizens have come up with various impressions of what the number plate sounds like.

Some fun stuff includes “break”, “buruk” (bad), “borak” (chat), which are not too bad but there are comments which state it means “berak” (taking a dump). With this in mind, we can never unsee the meaning of that number plate ever again.

Creative huh?

The bidding started on 5th April and will end at 10pm on Sunday, 9th April. The successful bids will be announced on Monday, 10th April.

The public will be able to bid again on the numbers that were not bid on at JPJ’s online auction platform,
JPJ eBid
.


Fuel Price Updates For September 19 – 25, 2020


Proton’s Cumulative Volume For 2022 Passes 100,000 Mark After 9 Months

Since the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely) acquired a 49.9% share in Proton in 2017, the Malaysian carmaker has been steadily regaining its strength in the domestic market. With new models like the X70 and X50, sales have kept rising although the COVID-19 pandemic slowed the trend last year.

Once the dominant brand in the market, Proton has been at No.2 for over 15 years and has been determined to regain its top position. With a strong sales month and more vehicles being available for delivery in September, the volume of 14,872 units (domestic + export) took the cumulative total volume for three quarters of 2022 to 102,353 units.

The last time Proton reported over 100,000 units for the 9-month period was eleven years ago. This is the fourth consecutive year that the carmaker has crossed the 100,000 mark and this year, it has done so two months earlier than in 2021. The 2022 volume is a 40.2% increase over the same period in 2021.

By Proton’s estimation of a Total Industry Volume of 62,500 units, it will have a market share of 23.8% for the month of September, and it is the first time that the market share for the 9-month period has exceeded 20%.

“Proton’s Q3 performance was our best quarter of the year, coming in with a total volume of 42,229 units for the previous three months. This was made possible by a combination of stability in our production numbers as well as the continued strong appeal of our models, especially for the 2022 Proton Saga and the Proton X50. Therefore, despite the poor start to the year, we are confident of achieving a fourth consecutive year of double-digit sales growth,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton Holdings.

Saga and X50 numbers continue to climb
After starting the year with parts availability issues due to the lingering effects of the December floods, COVID-19, and the global microchip shortage, Proton’s production volumes have stabilized allowing the company to deliver more units to waiting customers.

This is most apparent with the X50,
the best-selling SUV in Malaysia
, which has historically struggled to meet strong demand since its launch in October 2020. With 4,517 units delivered in September, more than 4,000 units have been delivered for 4 consecutive months leading to a cumulative total of 29,591 units in 2022. This is a significant 78.2% jump over the first 9 months of 2021.

The Saga is also posting impressive numbers. Severely affected by the floods last year that caused deliveries to dwindle to just 76 units in January, the evergreen model set a new high for 2022 with 6,442 units, a number not seen since October 2013. This year, Proton has delivered a total of 40,603 units as at the end of September, almost 50% higher than its 2021 number.

There were also increased deliveries of other models compared to the same month in 2021. For instance, the X70 volume rose by 32.1% to 1,730 units, while the cumulative volume for the
Exora
 rose by 15.6% to 3,108 units for the period from January to September.

Preparing for future growth
“Aside from concentrating on sales growth, the last quarter also saw us laying the groundwork for our future growth. The
General Distributorship Agreement with smart
 sets us up to sell EVs from the brand starting in 2023, while the
formation of PRO-NET
 crystalizes Proton’s commitment to developing and offering new energy vehicles in the future,” said Encik Roslan Abdullah.

Coming next year – smart #1 electric car.

Commenting on the proposal recently announced for Budget 2023 to
extend the period for duty-free import
 of electric vehicles (EVs), Encik Roslan Abdullah said the move shows that the government is concerned with the recommendations of industry players, including Proton, who want to develop the EV industry.

“The aspiration to develop the EV Industry is encouraging and we greatly appreciate the government’s efforts to provide a platform for carmakers and the local ecosystem to develop related programs. Proton agrees with the importance of advancing development towards electrification and carbon reduction programs and looks forward to being a key player in these aspects,” he said.

More loans being given out
He added that as a direct result of the strong demand for Proton products, financing by Proton’s subsidiary, Proton Commerce, has also been seeing growth. In September, the company disbursed 2,872 loans, breaking its previous high set in March this year. That brings the total number of loans provided in 2022 to 15,504, which has already exceeded the total number of 14,550 loans for the whole of 2021.

“With the OPR increasing by 75 bps this year, customers are actively searching for the best packages available to finance their new car purchases. As the preferred financier for Proton vehicles, Proton Commerce offers a range of innovative deals including the lowest rates for Proton Saga buyers as well as low monthly income requirements. These moves have proven to be effective, so we are expecting more growth in Q4 this year,” he said.

Proton Tg. Malim engine facility assembles new-generation engines


There are still new cars that cannot score a single star in NCAP tests (w/video)

Before Euro NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) came into existence, the safety performance of cars was not known to the public. While carmakers conducted their own tests, they did not necessarily share the results with the public. Of course, as responsible companies, they constantly aimed to make their products safer and to provide the best possible protection for occupants during an accident.

But just how safe was a car? That was not known until EuroNCAP was established in 1996 and began to crash new cars to see how they performed. EuroNCAP’s findings were made public in a standardized form so that comparisons could be made for car-buyers to make informed decisions. Cars that scored better would usually have better safety features, which added cost, and it was up to buyers if they wanted to pay more for the extra protection.

Most new models tested by EuroNCAP can score the maximum of 5 stars.

EuroNCAP focussed on new models sold in the European markets and for many years, their results were also used by carmakers when marketing the same models in other regions. In time, it was realized that due to overseas production of certain models, there could be differences in the safety performance due to engineering differences in some areas. This led to the establishment of NCAP organizations in other regions which focussed on models which were made and sold in those regions.

ASEAN NCAP
 is one of them and has been evaluating new models sold in the region for the past 10 years. In fact, ASEAN NCAP can be credited for pushing carmakers to raise safety standards with the addition of certain safety systems and features which are required in order to score the maximum number of stars.

The existence of these NCAP organizations has brought about discoveries of the differences in performance of some models in different regions. There have been cases of a model sold in Europe offering much poorer protection when built for sale in South American markets. Likewise, a number of cars in India have been found to scored poorly when subjected to crash tests.

With such information made public, manufacturers have had no choice but to make improvements to make their vehicles safer and more in line with global standards. Although NCAP results are not referred to when vehicles are inspected by local authorities in various countries, they are still important as car-buyers refer to them. A high score would give more confidence to a customer who in interested in a particular model, so manufacturers work hard to achieve the best score which is typically 5 stars.

Many new models can now score maximum stars and carmakers like
Toyota have been recognized for offering the most models with 5-star ratings
 in ASEAN. It may seem that in this day and age, most new vehicles will be able to get a few stars, so it is shocking to know that there are some models that fail to get even a single star!

This has been the case with the latest Hyundai Tucson which was tested by Latin NCAP which evaluates models sold in the Central and South American markets. The model was unable to be given even a single star which was disturbing because a Tucson tested by EuroNCAP a month earlier had been able to get 5 stars. The initial reaction of many people was that the model built for Latin American markets was not engineered differently or lacked too many safety features. However, it was learnt that the model tested by Latin NCAP was actually an
older fourth generation
 one, whereas EuroNCAP had tested the
latest fifth generation model
.

The Tucson tested actually scored well in adult protection for frontal and side impacts, as well as in whiplash protection as it at least has two front airbags. However, with no side airbags and inadequate chest protection as well as poor child occupant protection, its overall score could not even rate one star, not to mention that it also did not have any form of electronic stability control.

“Latin NCAP is disappointed by Hyundai’s attitude to Latin American consumers’ health and safety. It is unbelievable that an SUV like the Tucson does not offer side impact protection and ESC as standard. The long delay in replacement parts delivery is also concerning. We make an urgent call to Hyundai for a dramatic change in basic safety strategy in LAC and level it to its policy in Europe, Australia and USA, among others,” said Alejandro Furas, Secretary General of Latin NCAP.

“Once again, thanks to Latin NCAP, we can know the risks that certain corporations, mostly Latin Americans, expose us to due to the sale of low safety vehicles. Hyundai gives us an unpleasant surprise to see that one of its most popular models in the region, the Hyundai Tucson, which has had significant sales in our countries, gets 0 stars safety. This is one more example of the discrimination in vehicle safety that the inhabitants of the region have to suffer from some car manufacturers that use our region as a sub-standard market to maximize their profits,” added Stephan Brodziak, Chairman of Latin NCAP.

Hyundai models sold in Malaysia, like the forthcoming Palisade SUV (above), are high-scorers in NCAP tests as Malaysian regulations require high safety standards.

A zero-star result would certainly discourage most buyers and fortunately, this is not the case with Hyundai models sold in Malaysia. The Tucson is not currently sold (but has been in previous generations) but for the models imported to Malaysia, Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has been taking models with specifications comparable to those sold in Europe due to the tougher requirements of Malaysian regulations.

But while models sold in Europe may lead in safety performance when tested by EuroNCAP, this is not the case with every model. In its most recent series of tests, EuroNCAP found that the latest Renault ZOE EV was poorer than before – so poor in crash-tests overall, poor in vulnerable road user protection and lacking meaningful crash avoidance technology, that it was disqualified from getting any stars.

It would seem that while giving attention to improvements for the battery pack, Renault had compromised on safety elements. EuroNCAP noted that the seat-mounted side airbag which previously protected head and thorax has been replaced by a less effective thorax-only airbag, representing a degradation in occupant protection.

“Renault was once synonymous with safety. The Laguna was the first car to get 5 stars, back in 2001.  But these disappointing results for the ZOE and the Dacia Spring show that safety has now become collateral damage in the group’s transition to electric cars. Not only do these cars fail to offer any appreciable active safety as standard, but their occupant protection is also worse than any vehicle we have seen in many years. It is cynical to offer the consumer an affordable green car if it comes at the price of higher injury risk in the event of an accident,” said Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary-General of Euro NCAP.

ASEAN NCAP testing to include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems


Fuel Price Updates For October 24 – 30, 2020


First look at the all-new Honda Civic Si (w/VIDEO)

Like Type R, ‘Si’ has always set pulses racing for Honda fans as this designation has signified the high-performance Honda models. Young driving enthusiasts, especially in America, enjoyed the affordable high-performance for 4 decades with this model.

Now comes an all-new Civic Si which is based on the
11th generation model
. Unlike previous Si models, the bodystyle is no longer that of a 2-door coupe but is a 4-door sedan only. However, it stands out not only with the exclusive Blazing Orange Pearl finish with gloss black trim but also with functional aerodynamic aids that improve its performance.

A front spoiler hidden under the car and a gloss black rear spoiler mounted on the bootlid add downforce to improve high speed stability. The upper front bumper design is more aggressive, and its rear bumper has been reshaped to reveal two large oval exhaust tips.

Better than ever before

‘Best-handling’, ‘best-equipped’ and ‘most fun-to-drive’ are used to describe the new Civic Si, and to deliver all that, it has an updated high-output VTEC 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with usefully broader power curves than before. Maximum power output is 200 ps with 260 Nm of torque.

Previous Civic Si had 2-door coupe bodystyle which is no longer available.

A new single-mass flywheel is 26% lighter than the dual-mass unit used in the previous Si. The flywheel’s 30% reduction in inertia gives the  engine snappier throttle response for a sportier driving experience, while also improving drivability. To maximize available traction when accelerating, a helical limited-slip differential is standard at the front axle.

Manual 6-speed with rev-matching

The Civic Si comes with a manual transmission, a 6-speeder with improved shift feel and 10% shorter throws. A new, more rigid shift lever mounting bracket and a new leather-wrapped aluminium shift knob similar to the Civic Type R’s contribute to the improved feel.

For the first time, the Civic Si has a rev-matching system directly from the Civic Type R. With the same 430 m/s response time as Civic Type R in Sport mode, the new rev-matching system will ‘blip’ the throttle when it detects a downshift, quickly and perfectly matching revs for smooth transitions between gears.

In addition to Normal and Sport driving modes, the car’s updated Drive Mode system now includes an Individual mode that allows the driver to individually select engine response, steering effort, and even instrument panel display colour parameters for a more personal driving experience. Sport mode adds throttle response, decreases steering assist, deactivates the idle stop system, allows drivers to select rev match on or off, and changes the instrument accent lighting from white to red.

Improving the sound of the engine is a new dual-coil silencer exhaust system that increases exhaust flow 27% compared to Civic Touring. To complement the engine’s natural exhaust note inside the cabin, the new Civic Si uses an improved Active Sound Control system that can produce high-quality sound over a wider range of engine rpm.

Most rigid Civic Si ever

In terms of body stiffness, this is said to be the most rigid Civic Si ever. To maximize handling and driving dynamics, the spring rates are 8% stiffer in front and as much as 54% stiffer in the rear compared to the Civic Sedan. The dampers have also been tuned specifically for the Si. The front MacPherson struts have reinforced upper mounts to handle the increased cornering loads, and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars (compared to Civic Sedan) to minimize body roll.

With all that extra performance, the engineers have made sure that the Civic Si has good stopping power. It is fitted with larger brakes than the standard Civic Sedan and there are also 235/40R18 performance tyres.

Driver-focussed cabin

The driver-focused cabin has Si-exclusive body stabilizing sport seats with built-in head restraints and more prominent shoulder and lower thigh side supports. The lower cushion has been raised by about 12 mm at the front, providing better thigh support to reduce fatigue on long drives.

Outward visibility is enhanced by the pulled-back A-pillars, low bonnet, flat dashboard, low cowl and door-mounted outside mirrors,

The seat upholstery has embroidered Si logos and red contrast stitching are standard. Other sporty touches include sport pedals, and red contrast stitching. The red trim on the signature metal honeycomb dash panel of this new generation serves both form and function as it beautiful visually conceals the air vents for a clean uncluttered design.

Besides having a large 9-inch HD colour touchscreen, there is a 7-inch colour instrument display with a digital tachometer on the left side, a multi-information display in the centre and a physical speedometer dial.

11th generation Honda Civic debuts in Thailand


Kia Cerato earns top marks in safety for US market

In the US, the Kia Cerato, which is still known as the Forte, has been awarded the Top Safety Pick Plus (TSP+) by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)(USA), which is the best possible rating. The award pertains to the car built after March 2017 that is equipped with the optional front crash prevention and high intensity discharge (HID) headlights with Dynamic Bending Light tech.

The latest accolade complements the one recently received by the car for being named highest-rated compact car in the 2017 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS). The results were tabulated based on data from customer satisfaction survey and issues reported in the first 90 days of ownership.

“Kia Forte is one of our most popular and best-selling vehicles,” said Orth Hedrick, vice president, Product Planning KMA. “The new distinction of TSP+ rating from the highly-respected IIHS reconfirms the high priority we place on safety for our customers and why Forte remains a favorite in the compact sedan class.”

For a vehicle to qualify for the TSP, the IIHS states that these vehicles have to earn “good” ratings in five crash worthiness tests – small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength and head restraints – as well as an “advanced” or “superior” rating for front crash prevention and an “acceptable” or “goo” rating in headlight testing.

Over in the US, the Cerato is offered in three different trim levels, namely the LX, S and EX. All come with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine that produces either 147bhp or 164bhp and mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

There’s also a whole host of sophisticated tech that comes with the car, which include autonomous emergency braking, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning, and Dynamic Bending Light system mentioned earlier.

Based on recent news, it looks like Kia is constantly improving by producing safe and technologically advanced models that are able to offer kit of more expensive European cars but at a much cheaper price.


Stonic to be the most customisable Kia ever

Kia has revealed a concept compact crossover SUV called the Stonic, that incorporates European design and is inspired by the form and function of much larger Kia SUVs. The low slung roofline, angular contours muscular side profile lend it a muscular look that should appeal to the adventurous type.

The signature tiger nose grille is much narrower than what can be on the automaker’s current crop of vehicle, which especially true with the chrome outline that has been given more prominence than the rest of the assembly. The long sweeping DRLs underline the underside of the headlights, a similar arrangement seen on the current generation Sportage. At the rear, the Stonic features angular rear taillights that blend with the the rear bodywork. It also features a two-piece rear bumper integrated with the vehicle’s twin exhaust tips setup.

The cabin is said to be of European styling as well, which incorporates smooth surfaces and geometric design forms. It will feature cutting edge tech that will be smartly positioned to maximize space for occupants and a floating HMI (human-machine interface), which blends smartphone access with the car’s various systems.

According to Kia, the Stonic will go on sale in the second half of this year and will be the most customisable Kia ever made, both inside and out. This should hint at an extensive options list that will be made available to customers to customize the vehicle according to his/her own taste.


4th generation Kia Carens – made in India for India

The Kia Carens, first introduced in 1999, was one of the early MPV models from the Korean carmaker, along with the Carnival launched into the market a year earlier. It was a compact size suitable for developing and emerging markets. In Malaysia, Naza even adapted it to sell under its own brand as the Citra in 2005.

Three generations have passed and it has just gone into a fourth generation, with India being the debut market (and where it will also be made). The new model has moved from being a MPV to something more recreational, a sort of crossover with undertones of an SUV.

First generation of the Carens was also made by Naza for the Malaysian market and sold as the Citra (Rondo versions shown).

Why India as a launch market? “India is diverse, and the people here have different preferences. I believe this is the most exciting insight we tried to unlock while developing the Carens. It’s safe, feature-rich, has artistry in its design, and is comfortable and classy; it packs everything a modern Indian family would want in their vehicle,” said Tae-Jin Park, Managing Director & CEO of Kia India.

Like other recent new models, the new Carens uses ‘Opposites United’, the carmaker’s latest design philosophy. It has gained edgy character lines with a bold side profile. Kia designers believe the modern and high-tech design will appeal to millennials.

Still present is another interpretation of the ‘Tiger Nose Grille’ which Peter Schreyer introduced to the brand in 2006 when he was its new design head. It has been a signature element of all models and is complemented by horizontal chrome garnish in the upper grille and the frame-type chrome garnish in the lower bumper.

Attention is drawn to the new signature lighting concept – The Star Map. This is made up of LED DRLs and Crown Jewel LED headlamps to give a futuristic appearance.

The car looks sleek and dynamic with its slim daylight opening graphic along the sides. At the rear, the combination lamp on the robust sections makes the Carens look wide and strong, and the lighting units also have the Star Map LEDs.

Using an extended Seltos platforn, the Carens is said to have the longest wheelbase in its class (2780 mm), while its body dimensions measure 4540 mm in length and 1800 mm in width. That makes it slightly larger than a Mitsubishi XPANDER but noticeably shorter than a Toyota Innova. The ground clearance is quite generous at 195 mm.

The MPV will be offered with a choice of two petrol engines – 1.4 litres with turbocharger and 1.5 litres, with outputs of 140 bhp/242 Nm and 115 bhp/144 Nm, respectively. There’s also a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel which produces 115 bhp/250 Nm. A 6-speed manual transmission is fitted to the base version, with a 7-speed, dual-clutch and 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmissions also available.

While India is a big car market, the products being sold in the high-volume segments have been criticised for inadequate safety levels. Crash tests have resulted in poor ratings, and the manufacturers are beginning to realise that they cannot have differences in safety in different markets.

With the new Carens, Kia has made an effort to provide safety features that are already commonplace in other markets, including Malaysia. Its Hi-Secure Safety Package is a first in India and installed as standard in all versions are 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Hill-Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assist System, Tyre Pressure Monitor and disc brakes on all 4 wheels. The better safety measures will certainly be important in protecting the occupants on 3 rows of seats.

Extensive research was undertaken by Kia on the lifestyle and requirements of Indian families and the findings have resulted in a generous list of equipment. There are ventilated front seats, a Smart Pure Air Purifier with Virus and Bacteria Protection (very important in these times), Skylight sunroof and a BOSE Premium Sound System with 8 speakers. Surround Ambient Mood Lighting is also provided with a choice of 64 colours.

The infotainment (including navigation uses a High-Definition touchscreen display which is linked to Next Generation Kia Connect. This replaces the previous UVO system and allows for enhancement of OTA (Over the Air) Map and System Updates. This means owners can now update software without visiting the Kia service centre.

The Carens will come equipped with 60+ connected car features and what is more exciting is that the AVNT of the vehicle now supports ten native languages.

Kia Malaysia reveals 5-year plan with 61% of local production to be exported


F1 (Round 4): Preview & Starting Positions Of 2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Following a 4-week break, the 2023 Formula 1 World Championship returns for the fourth round in at the Baku City Circuit in Azerbaijan. This is the seventh time that Azerbaijan is having a F1 round since the first one in 2016, which was actually the European Grand Prix. The 2020 round had to be  cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This weekend’s racing will also see the first of six Sprint races for 2023, as well as mark the debut of a new standalone Sprint format, including a Sprint Shootout qualifying session. The objective of this new format is to separate the Sprint and the GP more distinctively, increasing the level of intensity across the weekend and encourage the drivers to push harder.

Race starts at 3 pm in Azerbaijan | 7 pm in Malaysia

Points will still be awarded to the top 8 finishers, with 8 points going to the winner and in decreasing order to 1 point for the 8
th
 placing. The result of the Sprint Shootout will determine the grid for the Sprint Race, which gets underway at 5:30 pm local time today. The Sprint classification doesn’t affect the grid for Sunday’s main race, which will be decided with the usual qualifying session.

Under the previous format, which began in 2021, it became clear that the second free practice did not provide enough engagement; the changes to the format will make Saturday morning more relevant. The reduction in practice time also introduces further ‘jeopardy’ for the teams in the new Sprint Shootout as they will have less understanding of tyres and set-up.

The Baku Street Circuit, which winds around the historic city and past high walls, is one of the most challenging tracks for F1 drivers. The majority of a 6.003-km lap adheres to the normal demands of a street circuit with tight corners and limited grip on a less-than-perfect surface.

The track has, however, been completely resurfaced, according to the race organizers. The latest asphalt roughness, which is usually minimal and not especially abrasive for the tyres, is another unknown factor that will only be established during free practice.

“Baku presents a unique set of characteristics with a very slow section that’s typical of a street circuit, as well as other parts of the track that are very fast. This year, the Sprint Shootout makes its debut on Saturday morning to determine the grid for the Sprint Race in the afternoon, with drivers obliged to use one set of mediums for each of the first two Shootout sessions, then a set of soft for the final session. This presents an extra challenge for the teams and also for Pirelli as there will be less long run data available, but we’re confident that it provides an opportunity to add to the spectacular show of a Formula 1 grand prix weekend,” said Mario Isola, Director of Motorsports at Pirelli, the tyre-supplier for F1.

“We’re bringing the three softest compounds in the 2023 range, which are well suited to this venue. One of the most crucial aspects to the weekend will be not only finding the right compromise in terms of setup, but also balancing the tyre management. The tyres on the front axle need to be warm enough to guarantee optimal grip – despite the long straights cooling them down – but it’s equally important not to overheat the rears in the traction phase. So the key is to balance the temperatures successfully between front and rear, because there’s a big risk of lock-ups and the walls in Azerbaijan take no prisoners, as we’ve seen in previous races here,” he explained.

Cornering speeds and gear selections for Mercedes-AMG cars.

With its 20 corners, the circuit is classified as a very demanding circuit on the brakes, according to Brembo. This is the only track n F1 where the drivers have to use their brakes on all 8 corners after the starting line. All 4 of the first turns are also 90-degree ones and are therefore very demanding on the brakes.

On Turn 3, the cars reduce their speed by a massive 210 km/h, dropping from 315 km/h to 105 km/h. To do this, the drivers are exposed to 4.8
g
 of deceleration for 2.18 seconds during which time the cars cover a distance of 106 metres.

Audi’s F1 Car Is Already Racing – In The Virtual World


Mercedes-Benz S 680 GUARD 4MATIC comes with protection against bullets and explosives

As far back as 1928, Daimler-Benz was already providing factory-fitted cars with special protective features against gunshots and explosives, for customers who required such protection. Later on, Mercedes-Benz also developed specially protected variants of its models and among those who ordered one was the emperor of Japan.

Many politicians and heads of state followed the emperor’s example and as demand grew, the company broadened the selection models with special protection. Though the volume was not big, it justified the establishment of the
M-B GUARD division
 to handle the development and production of such special models, more so as a level of secrecy was also needed.

First GUARD limousine with AWD

The latest model from this division is the S 680 GUARD 4MATIC, the first GUARD limousine with all-wheel drive (there are AWD SUVs in the GUARD range as well). Apart from its superlative qualities as a limousine, it meets the highest ballistic test level for civilian vehicles and is particularly resistant to explosive charges. It has been certified to meet the requirements of the highest civilian protection class and also meets the requirements of Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office.

Advanced dummies for testing

Details of testing are not released but during testing, the body and windows have been fired at by an assault rifle using armour-piercing ammunition. The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC achieved top scores in blast test on the roof, floor and sides. For the first time, the certification included tests with so-called biofidelic dummies. These are very sophisticated dummies with bone density and structure modelled on the human skeleton in every detail. Epoxy resin aluminium powder is used as a bone substitute, and webbing made of propylene is used as ligaments and tendons. The tissue and internal organs of the biofidelic dummy are made of silicone and acrylic. Thanks to the human-like structure, injuries are easily recognisable from the outside and allow more extensive evaluation.

Special equipment designed specifically for the model includes a fire extinguishing system with automatic triggering function and an emergency fresh air system that protects occupants from penetrating smoke or irritant gases and supplies fresh air. Other options include an extensive range of equipment for official authorities such as a siren, flashing lights and radios, as well as a panic alarm system. However, optional extras available for the standard car which contradict the protective purpose (such as a sliding sunroof) are not available.

Although the doors are very heavy due to their armouring, the electro-mechanical system is designed to keep operating forces low when opening and closing. This applies not only on level ground, but also when the car is on a slope. There is also a lot of intelligence in the hydraulically (instead of electrically) operated window lifters. Even if the on-board power supply fails, emergency operation is possible, ie closing in the event of an attempted attack. In each door, there is a corresponding unit consisting of a compressor and valve block together with a pressure accumulator.

V12 engine with 612 bhp/812 Nm

As for the powertrain, the V12 biturbo engine has already been extensively revised for the new S-Class generation. It has an output of 612 bhp/830 Nm which is distributed to all four wheels. Due to the higher vehicle weight, the AWD system of the GUARD version has stronger side shafts. The Michelin PAX run-flat tyres are standard and can be used for a distance of 30 kms after losing all air pressure.

“The S 680 GUARD 4MATIC is one of the most customer-oriented products from Mercedes-Benz. That is because this special protection model focuses on people and their safety,” said Dirk Fetzer, Head of Product Management S-Class. “No other series-produced saloon fulfils the highest protection class for civilian vehicles quite as comprehensively. And, at the same time, quality and durability are at series standard, thanks to extensive development and testing activities. The new special protection version ‘protects what matters’.”

M-B Guard – offering protection of a different kind for more than 90 years


FCA Airflow Vision concept shows digital future of car interiors

Since the beginning of the computer age and the use of electronic systems in cars, the driver and passengers have been interacting with more and more advanced technologies. These technologies have enhanced safety while making the travel experience more comfortable and pleasant.

With the Airflow Vision concept, Chrysler envisions the next generation of premium transportation and UX (user experience). It is created for people with an on-the-go lifestyle and a desire for a first-class travel experience while balancing their technology needs.

Inside, UX plays a prominent role and is designed to be a captivating experience using multi-layered, high-contrast graphics and thoughtful details that provide a clean, sophisticated appearance. Built on the principles of depth, hierarchy, consistency and legibility, the user will be able to see and experience the interface in a way that is safe, easy to use and understand.

Using a menu-based format, screens can be personalized, simplified and grouped to individual needs and interests. Offering multiple display screens, the user can access needed information and determine how it’s displayed. Information on the screens can be shared with all passengers by swiping, allowing each passenger to participate in the experience. Customization and personalization are key, whether driving or acting as a ‘co-pilot’.

A simple, modern and spacious interior, accented by a light, calming colour palette, offers passengers a home away from home environment and a first-class travel experience. Using the dimensions and flat-load floor of the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV, the interior creates a spacious environment for all occupants. Premium suede and leather materials are abundant, offering luxurious touchpoints to its occupants.

The seating uses a unique slim structure that rests on a pedestal base, enhancing comfort and roominess and allowing for maximum legroom, shoulder space and personal storage for each passenger. Functional and ambient lighting enables the driver and passengers to create a personalized inner sanctum.

The Airflow Vision’s styling captures a new proportion with an elegant and clean design statement, and hints at the future of premium design. It has an athletic profile, long wheelbase, sleek lines and wide stance that creates a dramatic persona and aggressive, yet elegant silhouette.

Simplified to its purest artistic expression, the Airflow Vision reimagines a muscular body that flows into and becomes one with the wheels. The wheels are inspired by mechanical elements of an electric motor and give the sense of motion similar to the internal mechanisms of a watch.

‘Crystalized’ textures throughout the vehicle add a sense of precision and intricate transition from exterior to interior. LED crystal lighting flows seamlessly into a cross-car blade that conveys a commanding presence. The Airflow Vision’s dramatic expression is completed by an Arctic White body colour that conveys a sense of calm and serenity and is supported with a Celestial Blue underbody.

As with many concept cars at motorshows, the underlying aim is to show new ideas and features to the public and see how the response is. With the Airflow Vision, the focus is largely on the digital interior and some elements could appear in future models of the Chrysler, Fiat… or even Groupe PSA brands.

Will Alfa Romeo be allowed to live under the new FCA+PSA merger?


MINI Countryman Powered by X-Raid

As the biggest model in the MINI range, the Countryman has been an ideal support vehicle for the X-raid Team. This is the team that is currently the incumbent overall winner of the Dakar Rally, that gruelling event which takes place annually.

Dakar dominance

For a decade, MINI and the X-raid Team have taken on the Dakar Rally – with much success. From 2012 to 2015, the X-raid Team achieved overall victory for MINI 4 times in a row. An additional overall success followed in 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic started to hit. This time, the marathon rally covered thousands of kilometres over the sands of Saudi Arabia.

The MINI ALL4 Racing in one of the Dakar Rallies.

With its ALL4 all-wheel drive and robust construction,  the Countryman has already demonstrated its performance in extreme conditions and over the toughest terrain. Now MINI customers can also benefit from the experience of the successful off-road specialists with the MINI Countryman Powered by X-raid.

Chassis modifications

The MINI Countryman Powered by X-raid is a truly authentic vehicle, epitomising not simply the flair of 5 victories in the Dakar Rally but also the technology that contributed to these triumphs. The chassis modifications of this 5-door model are derived directly from rally sport experience. There’s a significant increase in ground clearance, and particularly resilient wheel rims and tyres with higher flanks as prominent features of the upgrade.

The X-raid Team is familiar both with the features of the Countryman that are specific to the model and with the tough conditions besetting competitors and materials alike in endurance rallies. The know-how is used not only for the development of the winning vehicles but also into continuously optimised preparation of the service vehicles.

One thing that was learnt was that increased ground clearance and measures to avoid flat tyres are vital. This enables the service vehicles of the team to travel along tracks with countless potholes and sharp-edged rocks that are typical of the Andean highlands between Argentina and Chile. The same conditions were also found in the burning deserts of Saudi Arabia.

More off-road capability

Increasing the ride height of the car and the large diameter for the wheel rims and tyres easily raise the ground clearance for the Countryman by up to 40 mm. As a result, the fording depth and the ramp angle are significantly better than the standard cars.

The wheels developed specially for rallying provide effective protection against tyre damage. A robust rim ring ensures that it is not necessary to change the entire wheel if damage is sustained on rocky ground. It also creates a powerful visual impact and masks the high tyre flanks.

Two limited editions of MINI Cooper S Countryman Sports added to range


SEAT deliver the Guardian Angel of cars

SEAT has produced one of the safest cars in the world with technology that rival that of certain volvos. Called the Leon Cristobal, the car is fitted with 19 innovative technologies that help keep drivers safe while on the road.

This particular Leon was named after St Christopher (San Cristobal in Spanish), the patron saint of travelers. It’s a fitting name considering that most of its features are designed to keep commutes as safe as possible.

The first feature of the lot is Drive-lock. This system works with a built-in breathalyzer that prevents drivers from driving off if a positive reading is given. A must for party animals, this piece of tech could reduce the number accidents caused by drink driving.

Then there’s the Eye Tracker, a system that monitors a driver’s eye lids to detect signs of drowsiness. It can work in tandem with Drive-coach, a personalized voice assistant that provides several different warnings that include the excessive speed warning.

A nice addition that we wished were made available across other hatchbacks, is the Display-mirror. Essentially, its a display system that receives input from a rear mounted camera for better all-round visibility. Even if the boot is stacked with items, rear visibility will not be impaired.

Inspired by aircraft safety, the Leon Cristobal is fitted with a Black box image and date recorder. It sends footage to a selected smartphone in the event of an accident. There’s even a parent mode here too. the Mentor app enables them to limited vehicle functionality when their overenthusiastic teen with limited driving experience gets behind the wheel.

The app allows parents to limit vehicle speed and monitor its location location at any given time. But the Pièce De Résistance, has to be the ‘Guardian Angel’ driving mode. Once activated, it allow for all 19 safety systems to work concurrently, ensuring that the car is driven safely and is under the control of a fully alert driver.

Introducing such systems may seem like a Godsend for many, but there will definitely be a select few, who will ignore them and instead prefer that natural selection take its course. If more vehicle manufacturers introduce such safety nets, they could contribute to the reduction in vehicle related accidents and fatalities.


Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 2.0 Bi-Turbo Diesel Debuts In Malaysia!

The wait is over for all you Raptor fans! Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia has just launched the Next-Generation Ranger Raptor 2.0 Bi-Turbo Diesel. This means Ford is offering another engine selection for you Raptor lovers in Malaysia.

Next-Gen Design

Exterior

In addition to the “Raptor” decal, there are new exterior elements that have been added to give it that “Next-Gen” look. This includes flared wheel arches, bold F-O-R-D  lettering on the grille, and a bumper that has been separated from the grille that gives it a more defined front end.

Also added in are the Matrix LED headlamps along with the signature C-clamp LED daytime running lights (DRL).

This beast comes with 17-inch allow wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres. Ford Performance scuff plates, new cast aluminium side steps and LED lights all around give it the bold and off-road presence it needs.

Available colours include the new Code Orange in addition to the Absolute Black, Artic White, Blue Lightning and Conquer Grey.

Interior

The “New-Gen” energy is brought into the cabin as well. It features all-new jet fighter-influenced leather sports seats, a coast-to-coast Code Orange accented instrument panel, leather gear knob with e-shifter, premium-grade leather steering wheel and magnesium paddle shifters.

The fully digital cabin may seem similar because it is identical to the Raptor V6, including the 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system. And yes, it comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Standard interior features include a Bang & Olufsen sound system with eight speakers, four USB charging ports, a wireless Qi charger, a 12-volt power socket and a 360-degree camera. A stop/start button is featured along with a battery monitoring system.

Ford Performance and Features

Paired with an e-shifter 10-speed automatic transmission, this monster delivers up to 210 PS at 3750 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 1750-2000 rpm. It has a competitive fuel consumption of 8.2L/100km. High-efficiency alternators, active transmission warmup, ultra-low viscosity transmission fluid, synthetic rear axle fluid to reduce parasitic driveline losses and a cooling fan with brushless motors to reduce electrical losses are some of the key features.

Made to match its V6 counterpart, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel features the same reinforced chassis. It includes the C-pillar, load box and spare tire. In addition to that, it has unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket, all combined to ensure it can handle taking on the off-road routes.

It also comes with a similar redesigned suspension with the new FOX 2.5-inch Internal Bypass shock absorbers in front, refined Watt’s link at the rear and advanced permanent four-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case combined with rear locking differentials.

Also featured is a 2.3mm-thick high-strength steel bash plate with an under shield and transfer case shield. Other standard features are twin-rated tow hooks at the front and rear for better recovery and balance straps for recoveries in deep sand or thick mud.

It offers the updated Terrain Management System with selective drive modes. Seven to be exact:

Normal
Sport
Slippery
Rock Crawl
Sand
Mud/Ruts
Baja

The roots of the Raptor name originate from North America where Ford engineers used it on high-performance pickup trucks which started with the first-generation F-150 SVT Raptor in 2010.

The Ranger Raptor was inspired by desert racers and is a capable overlanding vehicle. Ford has created an off-road vehicle that you don’t need to modify to get you where you need to. Case in point, the Next-Gen Raptor has a successful completion of the SCORE International Baja 1000 in Mexico. It is one of the toughest off-road endurance races in the world.

Price and Early Booking Benefits

The Next-Generation Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel is priced at RM248,888, on the road without insurance and road tax.

It comes with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty or 160,000km, whichever comes first. Customers can opt for seven-year coverage with the  two-year PremiumCare extended warranty package.

The first 300 customers nationwide who make a booking will receive early bird benefits that include:

A specially fitted Kenwood DRV-A700W dashcam with a 3.7-megapixel Wide-Quad High Definition (WQHD) resolution.
Special offer of RM500 discount on one Ford Ranger Getaways via a promo code, redeemable upon vehicle delivery.


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has sold 100,000 Tritons in Malaysia

When Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) was established in 2005, one of the models it offered was the Triton. It arrived at a time when pick-up trucks were growing in popularity as they could be registered for private use (earlier, they could only be registered as commercial vehicles). With its stylish design and Mitsubishi Motors’ heritage in the Dakar Rally, the Triton became one of the popular choices for Malaysians wanting a truck.

Recently, the company delivered its 100,000
th
 Triton and commemorated the milestone by giving the customer, Muhammad Faerus, diesel for 100,000 kms which is worth RM27,000. Encik Muhammad Faerus, a solar panel installation contractor, purchased the Triton from EON Auto Mart, an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealership in Kuala Lumpur.

“Since the Triton was introduced in Malaysia, it has proven to be one of the favourite pick-up trucks in the market with its rugged look, versatility, and good handling. It is capable in the harshest of off-road conditions but also perfect as an everyday vehicle. Our customers come from all walks of life – business owners, off-road enthusiasts, and lifestyle users. Over the years, with improved technology and functionality, it has inspired owners to take on challenges and push the boundaries in creating an exciting life journey, while fulfilling their dreams and ambitions,” said Shinya Ikeda, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, at the presentation ceremony.

The three generations of the Triton introduced in Malaysia since 2005.

Last year, despite the pandemic and competition from rivals, the model maintained a solid market share of 22% with 9,268 units sold. Six variants are available, all imported from the Mitsubishi Motors factory in Thailand. Prices (without insurance) range from RM81,390 to RM146,600.

Contest for owners
In conjunction with this achievement, MMM is running the ‘
100,000 Triton Ambitions
’ Contest which will commence on September 14, 2022. To participate, Triton owners need to fill up a contest survey form and submit a photo which features a Triton in it.

Their photo can be entered in one or all four of the following categories:
a.
The Stylo King
– owner’s most memorable leisure activity with the Triton;
b.
Tough Champ
 – owner’s toughest experience with the Triton;
c.
Extreme Adventurer
 – owner’s most memorable long-distance journey with the Triton; and
d.
Mod Hero
– owner’s coolest modified Triton

One winner from each of the four categories will win 25,000 kms of diesel (worth up to RM7,000) each. The contest form, photo submission, and detailed contest terms and conditions can be found at the MMM website at
www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my
.

Limited edition Mitsubishi Triton Phantom Plus Edition introduced; only 1,000 units available


CONFIRMED: 2020 Singapore F1 GP is cancelled

As the F1 community prepares for the start of the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship season next month in Europe, the organisers of the Singapore Grand Prix have announced that the event is cancelled. Until today, it was uncertain of the street race would be run but the decision has been taken in view of continuing nationwide restrictions on construction and business activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While there are still more than 3 months to go before the scheduled race on September 20, we regret to announce that we will be unable to proceed with the race due to the prohibitions imposed on access and construction of the event venue required for a street race to be held in the city,” the organisers said, adding that ‘confirmation of the cancellation will also give certainty to our fans, ticket holders, and commercial partners’.

Insufficient time, besides safety concerns

It was explained that the limitations, which continue to remain in place, would make building and construction work of the circuit unable to take place. Normally, such work starts in May each year as the infrastructure for the circuit, especially safety aspects, is a temporary one created specifically for the event which has been run annually since 2008.

Ticket holders will receive automatic refunds within 30 business days but if they prefer, there is also the option of retaining their ticket for the 2020 event.

7 rounds cancelled

To date, 7 rounds of the 2020 championship have been cancelled. They are the Australian GP, Monaco GP, French GP, Netherlands  GP, Singapore GP, Azerbaijan GP and Japan GP. There were originally 22 rounds in this year’s calendar.

The
championship will have its opening round in Europe
 on July 5, starting with two weekends in Austria. The organisers will try to have at least 15 – 18 races before the end of the year. However, apart from strict health-related procedures for the participants, the races will also be run without spectators and rely largely on TV and internet broadcasts.

2020 Formula 1 World Championship will finally start in July with first 8 rounds confirmed


‘Op Selamat 20’ Records 1,389 Accidents On Second Day

On the second day of ‘Op Selamat 20’, staged in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, a total of 1,389 accidents were recorded around the country.

According to the Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department, of the 1,601 vehicles involved in the road crashes, 1,159 were cars, 112 were four-wheel drive vehicles, 192 were motorbikes, and 81 MPVs.

The accidents also involved two bicycles, fifteen lorries, twenty-three vans, thirteen buses, and four taxis. This was a decrease from the first day of the traffic operation when 1,964 accidents involving 2,486 vehicles were recorded.

There were 1,704 car crashes on Thursday, followed by 279 motorbike accidents, 206 four-wheel drive accidents, 150 MPV accidents, 91 lorry accidents, 44 van accidents, 10 bus accidents and 2 taxi accidents.

To reduce the likelihood of accidents, he stated, “We would like to advise all road users to always be alert when on the road.”

The Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, announced the start of “Op Selamat 20” on Wednesday. It will last for nine days, from April 20 to April 28.


Grecale, Maserati’s second SUV, makes its debut

The Maserati Grecale has finally been unveiled after a delay of about three months due to the global chip shortage. As the second SUV in the carmaker’s range, it is positioned below the Levante and take on rivals like the
BMW X3
 and
Porsche Macan
.

With an overall length of 4846 mm and width of 2163 mm, the shares the Giorgio platform with the
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
, though this is an updated platform with the additional capability of accommodating a 400V electric powertrain as well. At launch, there will be three engine choices available – two 4-cylinder 48V mild hybrids (300 bhp/330 bhp) and the powerful Nettuno V6 which produces 530 bhp for the Trofeo version.

Like the Levante, the performance of the all-wheel drive Grecale’s can be optimised with drive modes. In fact, while the Levante has 4 modes, the Grecale has one more (for the Trofeo version) besides the Comfort, GT, Sport and Off-Road modes. To complement the drive modes is the Maserati Vehicle Dynamic Control Module system which gives full control of driving dynamics and comfort levels.

Fully electric Grecale Folgore will only be launched in 2023.

Details of the electrified version, Maserati’s first BEV (battery electric vehicle) SUV are not available yet as the model will only be introduced in 2023. For now, it is known that it will have 400V technology for its powertrain. It will be part of the Folgore range, the name referring to the company’s strategy to have a completely electric product range by 2030.

The Grecale’s design uses elements from the
MC20 sportscar
, with a more ‘vertical’ design language more appropriate for the SUV form that is 1670 mm tall. The body has meandering, visual forms and its technical components are highlighted by the use of carbonfibre. In the rear, the boomerang taillights are inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line, made even more striking by the coupe effect of the profile.

The cabin, riding on a wheelbase of 2901 mm, has 2 rows of seating for 5 persons. Like many of the latest cars, the displays are greatly digitised, certainly more than any Maserati before. Everything is touch-based, giving clean aesthetics and even the traditional Maserati clockface has gone digital for the first time,

The dashboard has a large 12.3-inch display (the largest ever on a Maserati) with a classic cluster for the driver, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen running on Android Automotive software, which gives digital assistant services. There’s a second display for rear passengers as well to have more personalised control of the infotainment system.

For those who expect a luxury model to have superlative audio quality, Maserati has worked with Italian specialist Sonus Faber to provide an immersive 3D sound system. The Sonus faber system comes with a high-frequency amplifier and 14 or 21 speakers with specific functionalities that illustrates Sonus faber’s natural sound thorough the use of natural materials.

Production will start in mid-2022 with first deliveries commencing during the second half of the year. Official pricing has not been revealed although the entry-level Grecale GT is rumoured to start from around £50,000 (about RM280,000) in the UK.

Maserati starts electrification journey with new Ghibli Hybrid


Chery Malaysia will return to the Malaysian market with these SUV models

Although commercial vehicles (mostly large trucks) from China were sold in Malaysia in the 1990s, it was only in 2005 that Malaysians saw passenger cars from China being marketed locally. That was when Chery was introduced and the local representative went on to assemble some models locally as well. However, even though they had attractive prices, the Chery models didn’t sell well back then and eventually, the brand faded away.

Now, perhaps encouraged by the success of Geely entering the market (albeit by partnering DRB-HICOM as a shareholder in Proton), other Chinese carmakers are looking more seriously at the Malaysian market as they begin to develop export markets.

Chery is among them and besides already selling in neighbouring countries, it has announced plans to also start selling its models in Malaysia. According to the carmaker’s local marketing office, the models planned for introduction are the Tiggo 8 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro, part of the Pro line which has 4 SUV models and one sedan.

The Pro models are already on sale in various markets in Eastern Europe, South America, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Recently, the 500,000
th
 unit of the Tiggo 8 was produced, making it the fastest model to achieve the 500,000-unit milestone among Chinese-brand mid-size SUVs and 7-seater SUVs.

In developing the Pro models, Chery has established 3 pillars as the core of every product – intelligent technology, stylish design and efficient power. By ensuring that each model is technology-rich, the carmaker believes it can exceed consumers’ expectations and offer more than competitors.

For example, the Tiggo 8 Pro, flagship of the range, has 3 separate displays screens in the cabin. These consist of a horizontal 12.3-inch instrument panel, an 8-inch climate control screen and a 10.25-inch ‘floating’ infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto expand the functionality of the infotainment system by making smartphone apps available on the dashboard. There’s also a 360-degree view around the vehicle to assist the driver in manoeuvring, improving ease of parking as well as safety.

The smaller Tiggo 7 Pro is similarly equipped and comes with features such as wireless charging for compatible smartphones, and an electrically-powered tailgate.

Having produced motor vehicles since 1999, Chery has long R&D experience and has developed its own advanced powertrain and chassis technology. Six of its ACTECO series engines have been listed among China’s Top 10 Engines. This engine range, which has displacements from 800 cc litres to 4 litres, has strong power output with high thermal efficiency.

Where safety is concerned, Chery models not only to meet China’s C-NCAP safety standards but also international ones since they are sold in many countries. In Europe especially, safety standards are demanding and the Pro models have been designed and engineered to meet them.

The use of ultra-high-strength steel in body construction ensures strong passive safety while up to 6 airbags provide additional protection in the event of a collision. Intelligent technology is also used for active safety systems that include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These systems will help the driver avoid accidents or if that is unavoidable, then reduce the effects of accidents. This is  achieved by automatic emergency braking which activates when the driver does not respond to warnings of a pending collision.

Chery’s has a global design language known as ‘Life in Motion 3.0’ which is used on all its models, include the Pro models. This has a visual signature created by a galaxy-inspired geometric matrix diamond front grille and LED headlamps.

Besides the Tiggo Pro models. Chery will also introduce the OMODA 5 in Malaysia soon.

Chery launches new Tiggo 8 Pro SUV in South Africa with warranty for 1 million kms


1.3 Million Overdue Traffic Summonses Settled After Discount Offered

Since the
government
 started offering reduced pricing on summons on April 21, about 1.3 million past-due traffic tickets have been paid.

After 16 days of the discount being offered, the reaction has been positive, according to Datuk Seri Mat Kasim Karim, director of the Federal Police Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (TEID).

“TEID’s goal was to make sure that people took advantage of this opportunity because the majority of past-due summonses from 2022 and earlier qualify for this special rate. The public can settle summonses via a variety of platforms until May 21 at the discounted amount of just RM50, he said when reached, according to NST.

As stated by Kasim, the general public has several options for paying their summonses:

Online
myBayar PDRM app
All TEID counters
Post offices

In addition, they can pay their summonses via Maybank’s automated teller machines. “The government wants to assist the people by lessening the financial responsibilities they are carrying, and this discount of up to 86% is a part of that effort,” he said.

A number of government initiatives were unveiled on April 18 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in an effort to assist the populace in easing their financial worries. A reduced rate for summonses had also been mentioned.


Rimac Nevera EV hypercar to be delivered to first customers soon

After completing car ‘#000’ – the first Rimac Nevera EV hypercar – and running it at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Rimac’s factory is now putting the finishing touches on the first batch of hypercars to go to customers worldwide. Each unit is hand-built and at maximum capacity, up to 50 cars can be produced each year.

The first 50 units of the Nevera already have customers waiting for them to be delivered by Rimac’s 25 official dealer partners in four regions. Each car takes at least 5 weeks at the final assembly line alone, while many of its parts and systems are being made months earlier at Rimac facilities.

It’s taken 5 years of development and testing to reach this stage, along with evolving 3 generations of powertrain technology, 18 prototypes, 45 physical crash tests and more than 1.6 million collective hours of research and development.

The world’s first all-electric hypercar was developed entirely from scratch, with most key systems developed and made in-house by Rimac, the 13-year old carmaker in Croatia. To achieve the extremely high-performance targets that the team has set for the Nevera, all major components had to be custom developed. An entirely new generation battery system, inverter, gearbox, motor, control systems, infotainment and many more, were developed specifically for the Nevera.

Throughout the development process, the Nevera powertrain was redesigned 3 times in a process lasting more than two years, with each version pushing the envelope of performance further than before.

The development and homologation process was also an extraordinary journey for the whole team. Starting with initial experimental prototypes, leading on to validation prototypes and then pre-series cars, no fewer than 18 prototype examples of Nevera were painstakingly tested in every conceivable environment and measurable aspect, from the freezing Arctic Circle to a high humidity 48
o
C climate  chamber.

A rigorous 4-year crash testing program saw the destruction of 9 cars in 45 separate crash tests – all of which the Nevera passed with flying colours to ensure that owners will be well protected, should an accident occur.

The car’s name is taken from an unexpected Mediterranean summer storm off the coast of Croatia, and gives an idea of its character. It can be a comfortable grand tourer which can transform into a super-quick projectile in the next moment. Four electric motors generate a total of 1,914 ps, which can send the hypercar from standstill to 96 km/h in a claimed 1.85 seconds and to 160 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

“The Nevera was developed with the intention to become the cutting-edge electric hypercar it is today, ready to thrill drivers and passengers in a way they have never experienced before. I’m very much looking forward to customers taking delivery of their brand-new, highly customized cars and hearing their stories of fun behind the wheel,” said Mate Rimac, CEO of the Rimac Group.

Customers have a variety of customization options available, with 36 different pre-defined paint colours and the option to go bespoke, a selection of in-house-designed liveries, 3 levels of exposed carbonfibre – including a full bare carbonfibre body – and an enormous selection of colourful leathers, Alcantara, contrasting accents and metal finishes for the interior. This will ensure that each of the 150 Neveras to be produced in total will not be the same. Incidentally, that first Nevera will remain in the possession of the company.

While the very first Nevera completed will remain with the company, the first unit delivered went to Nico Rosberg, the former F1 champion.

Croatian carmaker Rimac Automobili takes control of Bugatti from Volkswagen Group


Chery release more images of upcoming compact SUV

Chery has released further images of its upcoming compact SUV that will spearhead the Chinese automaker’s plans to penetrate the global market.

The design is a major departure from what we are used to seeing from the company. And the public will get to see it up close during the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) on 12 September 2017.

The silhouette is fairly elegant, featuring flared wheel arches and contours that seem to have a sense of fluidity to them. Then there’s the cascading front grille that is integrated with the projector headlamps and sophisticated trim pieces.

These subtle design elements though not groundbreaking, provide this compact SUV with a European-like presence. One could be fooled into thinking that the design was of from an established marque.

According to the automaker, the vehicle will still have a Chery badge despite carrying its own unique nameplate. This way, the company will get to incorporate a new evolution of the Chinese brand’s ‘Life In Motion’ design philosophy.

Ray Bierzynski, Executive Vice President of Chery R&D Center Shanghai, said, “The world premiere of our new compact SUV marks the start of our approach to European sales with a new model line.”

He later added, “Launching within a few years, all models in the line-up will feature characteristic styling, user-focused technology, electrified powertrains and advanced safety features.”

Chery plans to start sales of its passenger cars in Europe within the next few years led by the all-new model line for global markets. This new line will manly focus on SUV and crossover models, a segment of the market that has recorded significant growth.

Though relatively unknown outside its home country, Chery is the most successful exporter of vehicles in China. It has sold over 1.2 million units overseas since it was founded in 1997 – more than any other Chinese carmaker.

This means that the company is well able to mount a significant campaign to challenge the status quo in Europe. This, may ruffle more feathers at Kia rather than VW, due to similarities in strategy adopted by the Koreans several years ago.


BIKES: SYM Malaysia Unveils 3 New Models – VF3i, Jet 14 & CruiSym 250i!

SYM Malaysia
 recently held the
world debut
 of the new
VF3i
 to the Malaysian market, in addition to the introduction of the
 SYM Jet 14
 and
CruiSym 250i
! 3 new scoots from Sym to start the year, not bad at all!

The SYM VF3i…

The SYM VF3i comes with a
liquid-cooled

185cc
 single-cylinder four-valve SOHC engine which is the biggest displacement in its category. The SYM VF3i’s EURO 3-Compliant mill on the other hand healthily offers
 17.7hp
at 8500 rpm, all of which is sent to the rear wheel through a
6-speed transmission
.

The chassis comes with a pair of telescopic front forks; telescopic coil spring oil damped single shock absorber at the back & a large 250mm single disc brake setup at the front and 200mm disc at the back. Onboard is also a large 7 liter fuel tank which is suitable for long distance rides. The aerodynamic bodywork engineered by SYM helps the rider slip through winds with ease as well.

There’s more too, the SYM VF3i comes with bright LED DRL’s at the front which allows the bike to be easily seen on a sunny day, a pair of sporty LED signal lamp and a rear LED lamp are included as well. The speedometer on the other hand comes with a digital & analog combination design.

And when you factor in the SYM VF3i’s affordable price compared to other moped bikes from the same category, enthusiasts will be amazed with what comes standard. The SYM VF3i is available in Red, Blue & Matte Black (SE) and it retails for
RM7988.00
 for the standard &
RM8288.00
 for the Special Edition (Excluding GST & other fees).

SYM VF3i Specifications

Type

Liquid-cooled, single cylinder

Valve arrangment

 SOHC, 4 valves

Bore & Stroke

63.5 x 57.8 mm

Displacement

183 c.c.

Rated Output

13.2kW at 8500 r/min

Compression Ratio

11.1:1

Gearbox

6 – speed

Lubrication

Forced circulation and splashing

Clutch

Wet multi Disc Clutch

Fuel Supply

Electronic Fuel Injection

Certification

Euro 3

Starting

Electric

Ignition

Full Transistor Ignition

Frame

Telescopic forks, travel 80 mm

Front Suspension

Telescopic coil spring oil damped

Rear Suspension

Single shock absorber, travel 32 mm

Front Brake

Single 250 mm disc

Rear Brake

Single 200 mm disc

Front Wheel

MT 1.85 × 17

Rear Wheel

MT 3.5 × 17

Front Tire

90/80- 17 (Tubeless)

Rear Tire

120/70-17 (Tubeless)

Wheelbase

1290 mm

Ground Clearance

150 mm

Weight

124 Kg

Fuel Capacity

7 Litre

The SYM Jet 14…

SYM Malaysia also took the opportunity to unveil a brand new scooter at the launch of the VF3i, the
SYM JET 14
. This scoot comes with cutting edge exterior design and is equipped with all the necessary features for a daily commuter.

The SYM JET 14 comes with a 4-stroke, single cylinder EURO 4 compliant engine, air cooling system,
CVT
 transmission and a displacement of
125cc
 which offers
10hp
 at 8500rpm and maximum torque of
9.2nm
 at 7000rpm. With the SYM JET 14, you get telescopic forks at the front & double rear suspension at the back. As for safety, the JET 14 is equipped with 260mm disc at the front & a drum braking system at the back.

In terms of design, this brand new scooter comes with dual 35kw/35kw headlights for better rider visibility, LED 3D tail lights, 3 ringed dashboard, hidden hook & closed inner box for more storage space. The SYM JET 14 also comes with generous amount of space underneath which could fit 1 full face helmet and also a
7.5 liter fuel tank
. The SYM JET 14 is available in Red, Blue & White and retails for a reasonable price of
RM6688.00
 (Excluding GST & other fees).

SYM JET 14 Specifications

Type

4-stroke engine, single cylinder

Cooling System

Air

Displacement

124.65 cm3

Fuel supply

E.F.I

Emissions standard

EURO 4

LxWxH(mm)

1990x730x1115

Wheel Base

1350mm

Weight (in running order)

128 kg

Maximum Horsepower

10hp/ 8500 rpm

Maximum Torque

9.2 Nm/ 7000rpm

Starting System

Electrical starter

Headlight

12 V   35 W/35W  × 2

Taillight

12V LED 0.12W/2.0Wx1

Position Lamps

12 V  LED 0.5W  ×2

Fr. Suspension

Telescopic fork

Rr. Suspension

Double

Rim(Fr./Rr.)

Aluminum/Aluminum

Fr. Tire

100/90-14

Rr. Tire

110/80-14

Fr. Brake

Disc260mm

Rr. Brake

Drum 130mm

Transmission

C.V.T.

Saddle height

771mm

Fuel Capacity

7.5L

The CruiSym 250i…

The last bike SYM Malaysia unveiled is a brand new scooter from its very popular line, the
SYM CRUiSYM 250i
. This scoot comes with cutting edge exterior design & is equipped with cruising features to challenge today’s scooter market.

SYM CRUiSYM 250i scooter is a revolutionary model with aggressiveness and sportiness. The headstock resembles the beak of adventure bike with a pair of fisheye-inspired headlights with SYM’s significant eyebrow looking LED lights on top and a 3D hexagonal LED taillight.

Despite the futuristic and athletic exterior designs, SYM CRUiSYM 250i guarantees the rider the best handling and comfort riding experience, abundant and unimaginable dynamic performance.

Besides a pair of foldable rearview mirrors, there are an adjustable windscreen and 40-45 degree ergonomic footboard to enhance the comfort of your long distance cruising. It comes with a huge storage space underneath the seating area which is more than sufficient to contain 2 units of helmet, raincoat and other personal belongings.

In terms of design, this brand new scooter contains car-like features such as air vents at both sides, glove box, USB ports, 12V charger and so on to enhance your riding experience to maximum.

The SYM CRUiSYM 250i is available in Matt Grey & White (SE), Red (Standard) & and it retails for
rm18888.00
 for the standard &
RM19188.00
 for the Special Edition (SE) (Excluding GST & other fees).

SYM CRUiSYM 250i Specifications

CHASIS

Frame

Tubular steel structure

Front suspension

Telescopic fork

Rear suspension

Swinging arm

Front brake type

disc & ABS

Front brake size

260 mm

Rear brake type

disc

Rear brake size

240 mm

Front tire

120 / 70-14 55P

Rear tire

140 / 60-13 63P

BATTERY

12 V 10Ah

ENGINE

Displacement

249.4 cm2

Engine type

SOHC Single Cylinder,4-Stroke

Cooling System

liquid cooled

Starter

electric

Power

Fuel Injection

Bore & Stroke

71mm X 63mm

Clutch

Automatic(CVT)

Emissions

Euro 4

Fuel tank capacity

12 Litre

MEASUREMENTS

Length

2175 mm

Width

760 mm

Height

1440 mm

Wheelbase

1550 mm


Prototypes and studies Porsche has never before shown to the public

Concept cars, studies and prototypes always excite the public as they are often futuristic and contain advanced technologies that may one day be available. However, many such vehicles are kept behind closed doors, and sometimes even when they are no longer of use, they are not revealed.

Over the decades, Porsche has obviously developed many prototypes to study new concepts for its future sportscars. These have typically been secret although some have been shown to the public. Now, for the first time, the carmaker is showing some of its secret design studies from 2005 to 2019. Besides revealing these models, Porsche also provides an insight into the design process – from the first drawing to the finished production model, if it got that far.

“The timeless and innovative design of our sportscars inspires people all over the world,” said Oliver Blume, CEO of Porsche AG. “Visionary concept studies form the basis for this success: they are the pool of ideas for the Porsche design of tomorrow and combine our strong tradition with pioneering future technologies.”

Porsche Vision Spyder (2019):
 With its spartan, puristic cockpit, the characteristic radiator grilles over the mid-mounted engine, red graphic elements and the suggested fins at the rear, the compact Vision Spyder clearly calls to mind the 550-1500 RS Spyder from 1954. At the same time, the study was intended to further develop the design identity of Porsche and provide a pool of ideas for future details, eg, the ultra modern roll-bar.

The design process

The design process begins with a sketch, followed by a 3D model. As soon as an idea is to be further developed, small models on a scale of 1: 3 and finally solid models on a scale of 1: 1 follow.

“The virtual world is the first step, but it is precisely the unexpected models that you have to experience in reality in order to understand how small, big or surprisingly proportioned a car is,” explained Michael Mauer, Head of Style Porsche.

In contrast to the development of a production model, in which several models with different styling themes are developed, some projects only have one vision model initially created as the protagonist of the central idea.

“Porsche intentionally has just a single design studio – located in the direct proximity of development,” said Mauer. “Weissach is our epicentre. Instead of opening advanced design studios in the distant metropolises of North America and Asia, our designers come from all over the world to Porsche in Weissach in order to create the latest production sportscars and automotive visions at the heart of the brand.

“More than 120 designers, experts for interior, exterior, colours and materials, model builders, modellers and study engineers work in the Porsche Design Studio,” he revealed.

Porsche 919 Street (2017) :
 The 919 Street was developed on the basis of the technology used in the 919 Hybrid, promising to make the exhilarating driving experience of the LMP1 racing car available to amateur drivers. Under the outer shell are the carbonfibre monocoque and powerful 900-ps hybrid racing drivetrain that helped Porsche win numerous victories at Le Mans. The dimensions and wheelbase were also the same as on the racing car.

The design studies

“When it comes to the visions we develop, it is not about bringing every car onto the road. Instead, it is more a question of establishing creative space and a relationship with the future,” said Mauer when describing the design process. “There are two possibilities for continuing to develop as a brand: either you improve your products from the present, that is to say step-by-step. However, it is difficult to be really innovative in this process. Or you give free rein to your creativity. The idea is to let your thoughts jump to the day after tomorrow, and to then move back from there to tomorrow.”

Based on this idea, Porsche develops the product and brand identity which characterises and secures the appearance of all models in the long term. The design language for future models develops from the long-term vision.

In this process, the higher-level goal is to combine the Porsche design DNA with state-of-the-art vehicle engineering. On the one hand, this secures the innovative capability of future Porsche models and, on the other, also provides an evolutionary reference to the rich history of Porsche.

Porsche Vision ‘Renndienst’ (2018):
 The Porsche vision ‘Renndienst’ is the free interpretation of a family-friendly space concept for up to 6 persons. The design team designed a futuristic ‘space shuttle’ with exciting proportions. The study shows how the Porsche design DNA with its characteristic surface modelling can be transferred to an unknown vehicle segment for the brand.

Visit
Porsche Malaysia
 to know more about the models available that you can buy

Porsche developing a starship for the time when its business expands to galaxies far, far away


Volkswagen Store opens for online business on Shopee

For the past couple of years, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has been steadily increasing its brand presence online, starting first by offering a limited number of special edition units for sale.  Now, it is moving into e-commerce in a bigger way by having an official online store as a complement to its
Volkswagen eShowroom
 which was launched earlier this year.

The new online store at Shopee, a popular platform, conforms to Volkswagen’s new brand design principle of ‘digital-first’. As Malaysians embrace the new normal, e-commerce platforms like Shopee, together with Volkswagen’s own eShowroom are key points of contact for new and existing customers, playing a key role in their shopping and purchase decisions.

VPCM will be offering special deals on Shopee.

Exclusive deals

The Volkswagen Store on Shopee will feature the complete line-up of models, providing a convenient alternative to those shopping for a new car. In conjunction with the coming ‘
7.7 Mid-Year Sale’
, VPCM is offering exclusive deals for Volkswagen models booked via Shopee between June 23 and July 7, 2020.

Customers need only pay RM199 to be entitled to rewards ranging from RM4,279 up to RM14,819, depending on the models selected. This includes exclusive online deals and savings, free home delivery within a 20-km radius from the dealership processing the purchase, free deep sanitization package worth up to RM150, and a free Volkswagen LEGO camper worth RM499. Seven lucky customers who purchase a Volkswagen during the promotion period will also stand a chance to win RM700 Shopee voucher.

Besides the Volkswagen Store at Shopee, there is also the
Volkswagen eShowroom
.

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, said the move to Shopee is a way for the brand to optimise its services on digital applications while offering the best deals and convenience when it comes to buying a Volkswagen. “We have achieved great success with our digital and e-commerce initiatives and being present on Shopee was the next natural step for us. This partnership with Shopee leverages on their digital expertise and platform to connect with our customers whilst offering them irresistible deals in conjunction with Shopee’s ‘
7.7 Mid-Year Sale’
,” he said.

UNITED limited editions of Volkswagen Passat and Tiguan launched


BMW Malaysia introduces BMW Elite M Card

BMW M Performance vehicle owners here in Malaysia have another cool feature that they can boast about to their normal mortals around them with the BMW Elite M Card launched by BMW Malaysia. It’s a privilege programme that complements the current existing BMW Privileges Elite Card, but with more M-Power goodness. Those who opt for the newly introduced BMW Elite M Card will gain extra privileges on some very enticing M-specific benefits.

According to Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, “M is the most powerful letter in the world. Combining our passion for high performance and our priority to our customers, it is only apt to provide BMW M owners with M-specific ownership privileges as exceptional as their cars. By introducing the BMW Elite M Card, we look forward to further enhance the leading customer service experience BMW is known for through the years. With this new privilege programme, owners can now benefit from more rewards just by being part of the BMW M family.”

What are the privileges of owning the BMW Elite M Card? How about offer on local and regional M Track events? Additional discounts for BMW Driver Training? Maybe some savings on BMW Lifestyle merchandise? Worry not because you’ll get all three!

Other benefits include given priority service appointments and Reception at the Car (RATC) at all BMW M Service Outlets and BMW M Dealerships, loyalty discounts for repeat BMW M customers as well as a dedicated page within the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App.

To know more, head over to
www.bmw.com.my
.

BMW M4 ///M Heritage Edition to make debut in mid-September


2022 is Petron’s 10th year in Malaysia and it’s having anniversary celebrations

It’s been 10 years since Petron Corporation, the largest oil refining and marketing company in the Philippines, acquired ExxonMobil’s downstream businesses in Malaysia. In the years that followed the acquisition, petrol stations with the familiar Esso and Mobil branding became Petron stations across the country.

The station along the MRR2 at Selayang in Selangor was the first service station to have the Petron corporate identity in 2014. Its dealer, Mohd Azhar Ismail, still remembers greeting his customers “
Hi! Selamat Datang ke Petron!
”  with a smile on his face on the opening day. Since then, about 200 more service stations have been added to Petron Malaysia’s retail network.

The first Petron station to start operations in Malaysia.

“We mark a significant milestone as we celebrate our 10th year. As we trace our humble beginnings, we can proudly say that Petron Malaysia is now one of the country’s leading oil companies. Since day one, we’ve remained committed to take new chances, aspire towards excellence, and move past the recent challenges that we’ve conquered together. We owe this to our customers, employees, partners, and other stakeholders who have all been part of this remarkable journey,” said Petron Malaysia’s Chairman Ramon S. Ang.

Products and services for various sectors

The company has solidified its commitment to provide consistent, quality products and services to its customers. Its range of fuels include the only RON 100 petrol in Malaysia (introduced in January 2016), liquified petroleum gas (LPG) for domestic and commercial use, and lubricants for consumer, commercial and industrial purposes. Many of its stations also have car-care centres and, of course, convenience stores.

Petron is still the only brand offering RON 100 petrol which it introduced in 2016.

Convenience stores at Petron stations provide motorists with all their needs for short or long journeys.

Petron Malaysia has also made it part of its mission to integrate sustainability practices into its operations – closing gaps to embrace economic, environment, social and governance agendas, and to deliver more value to its stakeholders and build a better future.

Major investments

As part of its economic sustainability, the company completed two major investments at Port Dickson Refinery (also acquired from ExxonMobil) in 2021. The Diesel Hydrotreater unit produces diesel with lower sulphur content meeting Euro5 specifications, while the Marine Import Facility 2 caters to bigger vessels thus reducing frequency of imports. Both projects contribute to reducing Petron’s carbon footprint in line with the company’s philosophy to ‘Protect our environment today for a better tomorrow’.

Petron’s two major investments at the Port Dickson Refinery in 2021 have been the Diesel Hydro Treater unit (above) and the Marine Import Facility (below).

Petron also has a palm methyl ester plant with a biodiesel production facility to ensure the uninterrupted supply of cleaner diesel for the nation. The Lumut PME plant was recently awarded as a Runner-up in the Renewable Energy – Biofuel Award.

Throughout the pandemic, Petron partnered with various private entities and non-government organizations such as MERCY and Uncle Kentang to mobilize its fuel, LPG and engine oil donations for underprivileged communities. When the country was recently hit by heavy floods, Petron was also at the forefront of bringing much-needed aid to affected stakeholders.

To thank its loyal customers and partners, Petron is launching the
TENtu Happy
 celebration on April 2, 2022 at all its stations nationwide from 10 am to 2 pm.

Petron makes sure its toilets are always clean and operational – and that is certainly important!


Volkswagen provides first look at its first e-SUV coupe – the ID.5 GTX

Volkswagen has revealed another member of its all-electric ID family and this one’s a SUV coupe. The idea of a coupe-like SUV was introduced by BMW with its X6 in 2008 (although some feel the honour should go to the SsangYong Actyon of 2005) and has provided those who like coupes with something that can also double as a SUV.

Debut in concept form first

Volkswagen’s version will be the ID.5 GTX which will make its international exhibition debut next month – as a disguised concept – at the IAA Munich Motor Show. ‘GTX’ represents the Volkswagen brand’s new athleticism, continuing the tradition of the GTI, GTD and GTE models and transferring it to the world of electric mobility.

It will be the second model in the GTX line, joining the
ID.4 GTX
, and will give the company’s ACCELERATE strategy another boost. The goal is to increase the share of all-electric cars in Europe to 70% of Volkswagen‘s sales by 2030, on the way to becoming net carbon neutral by 2050.

Two motors for all-wheel drive

Full technical details are not available yet and for now, the company is only providing an overview. As with all the electric models, its first SUV coupe will sit on the Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform. It will have 2 electric motors – one on each axle – to give all-wheel drive. The motors will receive energy from a  large lithium-ion battery pack between the axles. The projected range with a fully charged pack is expected to be up to 497 kms.

The sporty profile of the ID.5 GTX has short overhangs and big wheels. At the front are the IQ.Light LED matrix headlights which generate an intelligently controlled high beam. The light strip that tapers towards the Volkswagen logo has been combined with three powerful, illuminated honeycomb elements on both the driver and passenger side. They complement the signature of the low beam and convey the athletic character even while stationary.

The flat sloping A pillars positioned right near the front give the roofline an elegant flow. It stretches low over the body and tapers out in an integrated rear spoiler. At the rear, horizontal lines accentuate the width, with the light strip attracting the most attention. The LED rear lights have a 3D design that provides a visual signature for the model.

ID.6 – largest model on MEB platform

The roll-out of ID models is not sequential (by the numbers) and an ID.6 has also been revealed for the Chinese market. This is a 7-seater SUV (shown below) based on the ID. Roomzz concept. It will be the largest model using the MEB platform with an overall length of 4880 mm.

ID.6 for the Chinese market is the largest model using the MEB platform for electric vehicles.

Volkswagen ID.4 GTX high-performance model added to all-electric ID range


ETCM Announces “Best Deal Ever 0% GST” Raya Promotion & Test-Drive Roadshow!

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) has introduced the
“Best Deal Ever 0% GST”
 campaign, aimed at supporting customers’ purchase before the Hari Raya celebrations. The Campaign will run throughout the month of
June
 with GST set at 0% and customers will also be entitled to the on-going Duit Raya Savings.

Almera

(1.5L E Auto)

Grand Livina

(1.6L Auto)

X-Trail

(2.0L Comfort)

All-New Serena

(2.0L Highway Star)

Navara

(2.5L V Auto)
2017 Stock

Teana

(2.0L XE Auto)

Selling Price

0% GST

RM68,129.62*

RM85,968.31*

RM129,289.93*

RM127,874.84*

RM104,595.12*

RM119,852.55*

Duit Raya Savings

RM7,500.00

RM7,000.00

RM10,000.00

RM2,000.00

RM13,000.00

RM5,000.00

Trade-in 2 Years Warranty Savings

RM1,000.00

RM1,000.00

RM2,000.00

RM2,000.00

RM2,000.00

RM2,000.00

Nett Price

RM59,629.62

RM77,968.31

RM117,289.93

RM123.874.84

RM89,595.12

RM112,852.55

* On-the-road price without Insurance, valid for Private Individual registration for Peninsular Malaysia. (Kindly refer to Appendix for full variant price list and promotion).

Adding to Raya’s merriment, ETCM is rewarding five (5) lucky owners the opportunity to take home an
OSIM uLove Massage Chair
 (worth RM19,988) and other prizes worth up to RM450,000, with a purchase of a new Nissan vehicle.  Customers simply have to submit an entry form with their purchase of a new Nissan vehicle.

Members of the public are invited to join us at the
Nissan Test Drive Carnival
 at selected ETCM showrooms and
Roadshows
 across the nation.

Dates and venues are as follows:

Test Drive Carnival Schedule

Date

Region

Venue

1 – 2 June

East Coast

ETCM Kota Bharu

2 – 3 June

East Coast

ETCM Kuantan

8 – 9 June

Northern

ETCM Alor Setar

9 – 10 June

Northern

ETCM Butterworth

Northern

ETCM Ipoh

Central

ETCM Petaling Jaya

Central

ETCM Cheras

Southern

ETCM Johor Jaya

Southern

ETCM Seremban

Southern

ETCM Semabok

Sarawak

ETCM Kuching

Sabah

ETCM Kota Kinabalu

23 – 24 June

Northern

ETCM Bayan Lepas

Central

ETCM Glenmarie

Central

ETCM Puchong

Southern

ETCM Batu Pahat

Sarawak

ETCM Miri

Sabah

ETCM Sandakan

Roadshow Schedule

Date

Region

Venue

1 – 3 June

Sarawak

The Spring, Kuching

3 – 9 June

East Coast

TESCO Kota Bharu, Kelantan

5 – 10 June

Central

AEON Bukit Tinggi, Klang

Southern

KSL City Mall, Johor Bahru

Northern

AEON Bukit Mertajam, Penang

For more information, visit www.nissan.com.my or call ETCM’s Nissan Customer Care Centre at
 1800-88-3838.