Bentley aiming for a third record at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb this month with Continental GT3

Up till the 1980s, the Pikes Peak Hill Climb in the US state of Colorado was pretty much an American event, largely unknown to the rest of the world. The first run for the ‘
Race to the Clouds
’ was held in 1916 and thereafter, it became an annual event that saw new records being set every so often. Then in 1984, Audi showed up; as the era of the Group B super rallycars ended, Audi looked for other events where it could still enter its cars and the Pikes Peak Hillclimb was one of them.

French rally driver Michele Mouton came with the Audi Quattro and, within two years, was able to win overall as well as set a new course record. Other European teams also brought their powerful rallycars to Pikes Peak and the power game escalated. Even electric vehicles started to race up the hill, one of them from Mitsubishi Motors.

Two previous records

Bentley also saw the event as a good place to demonstrate the superior performance of its cars, especially to the US market which takes a lot of them each year. In 2018, it sent Rhys Millen in a Bentayga W12 up the 20-km route with 156 turns and the New Zealander set a new Production SUV record. The following year, Millen used a Continental GT and set the outright Production Car record.

This year, on June 27, Millen will again be racing up the hill and for this run, he has a Continental GT3. The car is now in final preparations which have included three dynamic test sessions and renewable fuel engine development.

Most extreme road-going Bentley

Regarded as ‘the most extreme road-going Bentley ever built’, the Pikes Peak racer will run on renewable fuel, initiating a R&D programme that aims to offer renewable fuels to Bentley customers in parallel to Bentley’s electrification programme. This two-strand strategy is set to maximise the pace of Bentley’s progress towards outright carbon neutrality, as part of its ‘Beyond100’ journey.

Upgraded twin-turbo V8 engine

From the start line at 2,834 metres, the course climbs to around 4,300 metres. As the altitude increases, the air becomes less dense, which has major implications in engine performance. The car’s engine – based on Bentley’s race-proven version of its 4-litre V8 road car engine – can cope with the reduced air density as it is turbocharged. It has been thoroughly reworked to generate more than 750 bhp/1,000 Nm at sea level for testing – and the engine will run even higher power levels for the race itself.

New pistons and conrods are installed to turn additional boost pressure (over 2.2 bar) into power, having to handle an increased dynamic pressure ratio. The carbonfibre intake manifold is thicker and reinforced versus the standard item, for the same reason. Custom, one-off Inconel exhaust manifolds have been 3D-printed via laser sintering by Abramovic, and lead to larger turbos paired with external wastegates, venting into very short exhausts and dedicated screamer pipes that exit behind the front wheels.

The high performance engine places additional demands on the cooling system and for Pikes Peak, the engineering team developed a secondary cooling system that’s installed at the back of the car. Air scoops replace the rear windows, and channel air through a secondary radiator that exhausts through ducts in the boot lid. The system runs via a dedicated secondary water pump.

RON98 eFuel

The engine runs on RON98 Renewable Racing Fuel. The fuel is a dedicated blend of advanced biofuels specifically designed for motorsport, and is a technological stepping stone to
sustainably-created eFuel
 with a greenhouse gas reduction of up to 85%.

The gearbox is Bentley’s standard racing unit, already designed to handle the torque loads involved, but rear driveshaft diameter has been increased to provide additional durability. The gearbox runs a specially-formulated lubricant created specifically for the car by Mobil1, who have also supplied high-performance oil for the engine.

The chassis has been set up and tuned to suit the specific nature of the Pikes Peak course. Both front and rear axles run significantly reduced camber to the standard Continental GT3 setup, focusing the car on low-speed cornering performance. The softest springs and anti-roll bars from Bentley’s range have been fitted, to allow more movement in the body and so maximise weight transfer for braking. The brakes themselves are water-cooled, to handle the increased loads that an all-out attack on the course will bring.

Aerodynamic modifications

The aerodynamic modifications see a 30% increase in overall downforce at sea level, while maintaining the standard car’s aerodynamic front/rear balance – validated during the first track sessions. The biggest rear wing ever fitted to a Bentley dominates the rear of the car, sitting above a highly efficient rear diffuser that surrounds the transaxle gearbox. To maintain the aerodynamic balance front-to-rear, these devices are paired with a comprehensive front-end aerodynamic package comprising a two-plane front splitter flanked by separate dive planes. The majority of these parts were made with carbon nylon filament using rapid prototype, additive manufacturing techniques at the Bentley factory in Crewe.

To break the record, the car will have to complete the climb of around 1,500 metres at an average speed of more than 125 km/h to cross the finish line in less than 9 minutes and 36 seconds.


New 2nd generation Toyota Prius Aqua/Prius c is first vehicle to use bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery

Right from the start, the battery pack has been a crucial element for the development of electric vehicles (EVs). The earliest EVs in the 1930s used very heavy batteries which made them unappealing, apart from the fact that performance was poor. Not much development of batteries took place in the decades that followed as the internal combustion engine dominated the auto industry and the battery’s role was minimal – mainly to start the engine.

It was only by the end of the 20
th
 century that development of batteries started picking up, as interest in EVs started growing. Although the lead-acid type (the small one in the engine bay of cars) was used, it was totally unacceptable as its storage capacity was small and it was heavy. But R&D into this area accelerated and it was possible to use other chemical processes that could achieve a higher density and capacity for battery packs. Currently, it is the lithium-ion battery pack that is widely used in many EVs and hybrids.

Second generation of the Prius Aqua/Prius c

Now, Toyota has come out with another type of battery with a high output bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery. This is installed in the all-new Aqua (also known as Prius c) that is launched in Japan today and it is the first vehicle in the world to use this type of battery. Compared to the nickel-hydrogen battery that was used by the previous generation of the Aqua, the new more compact battery can provide approximately twice the output while enhancing performance and range.

Since the launch of the first-generation Prius in the late 1990s, Toyota has accumulated expertise both in the technological development and the quality management of batteries and hybrid systems. One subsidiary, Toyota Industries Corporation, has developed proficiency in analysis technologies for the development and performance assessment of materials through many years of developing batteries for electrified forklift trucks. By combining their respective fields of knowledge, the companies have worked to develop better batteries and their efforts have led to the development of bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries.

First generation of the Prius c was sold in Malaysia for a few years when the government allowed full tax exemption on hybrid vehicles.

What is a bipolar battery?

In bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries, a cathode is applied to one side of the current collector, and an anode to the other; several of these structures, which are known as ‘bipolar electrodes’, are stacked together to form  the battery architecture. Compared to non-bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries, bipolar versions consist of fewer current collectors and other parts, enabling them to be made more compact. It is possible to stack a larger number of cells in bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries than in non-bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries of the same size.

In addition, since bipolar batteries have a greater active surface area and a simpler construction, there is lower resistance within the battery itself. This enables the flow of larger currents, leading to increased output. As an example, the bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery equipped to the all-new Aqua has an output approximately 2 times higher than the non-bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery used in the previous Aqua.

Toyota’s own battery factories

Toyota has its own battery manufacturing subsidiaries but it’s not known which company is producing these new batteries. Back in 1996, Toyota formed a joint-venture with Panasonic to develop and manufacture batteries for electrified vehicles. It was first known as the Panasonic EV Energy Company but changed its name to Primearth EV Energy Co., Ltd. (PEVE) in 2010 when Toyota became the majority shareholder.

Primearth EV Energy, Toyota’s first joint venture with Panasonic to develop and produce batteries for its hybrid vehicles.

PEVE focussed on making prismatic nickel–metal hydride (NiMH) as it worked on improving the quality of lithium-ion batteries. It began mass production of these higher performance batteries in early 2011.

Toyota also has a second joint-venture with Panasonic which was established just last year. Known as Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (PPES), it will handle development, manufacture, and sales of high-capacity and high-output prismatic lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries and next-generation batteries for automotive application.

Prime Planet Energy & Solutions is the second joint venture that Toyota has with Panasonic to make batteries for electric powertrains in motor vehicles. The company has two factories with the one in Japan (below) to have a capacity of 80,000 batteries annually and a second one in China which is expected to supply batteries for up to 400,000 hybrid electric vehicles per year.

PPES has an ambitious target to reduce battery costs by up to 50% this year. This will be achieved by expanding production capacity at two factories – one in Japan which will supply up to 80,000 battery electric vehicles annually, and a second one in China which is expected to supply batteries for up to 400,000 hybrid electric vehicles per year.


Top Honda Civic variant now has advanced Honda SENSING safety systems

Earlier in the year, the 2020 Honda Civic was launched (along with the 2020 Accord) but as it came out about 20 days before the government implemented the Movement Control Order (MCO) that suspended all business operations in the country, sales were limited. Nevertheless, according to Honda Malaysia, over 2,900 units have already been delivered nationwide, with more than 6,500 booking received up till the end of June.

Today, it has been announced that the Civic – the leader in the C-segment and Honda’s third bestselling model in Malaysia – has been upgraded with Next Generation Advanced Technology. The top variant now has Honda SENSING as well as Honda LaneWatch.

First introduced in the CR-V (in Malaysia), Honda SENSING is an integrated suite of 8 active safety systems that help the driver to avoid accidents. The systems use cameras and radar to monitor the presence of other vehicles ahead and prevent collisions, as well as lane markings to alert the driver if the car is moving out of the lane (or even off the road).

LaneWatch is a very useful feature that provides the driver with a view along the blind spot on the left side of the car. It uses a small camera in the door mirror on the left side (pictured above left) and the real-time image is displayed on the screen on the dashboard (above right), coming on whenever the left signal is activated.

The advantage of having LaneWatch is that the driver’s head does not need to turn so much, compared to turning considerably to look at the left mirror. The head needs to just turn a bit to see the display screen which is in the middle of the dashboard. Guidelines embedded in the image provide reference points to indicate the distance of another vehicle or motorcyclist.

There are different wheel diameters and designs for each of the three variants.

All variants are equipped with standard safety features such as 6 airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist, Agile Handle Assist , Hill Start Assist, Emergency Stop Signal, ABS, Brake Assist, Auto Brake Hold, ISOFIX points in the rear seat. The parking sensors in the front bumper are also said to be new.

The Civic continues to be available with a 173 ps/220 Nm DOHC VTEC 1.5-litre turbocharged engine as well as a 1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine (141 ps/174 Nm). Both engines are paired with a CVT and can bring the car up to a claimed top speed of 200 km/h.

“The New Civic now sets an even higher benchmark in the C-segment, offering a complete technologically advanced sedan that continues to be well-received by young adults, young urban families, professionals and tech-savvy individuals. With the PENJANA initiative [exempting sales tax], this model now receives a substantial reduction, giving customers more reason to own the New Civic,” said Toichi Ishiyama, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO.

Unlike the Japanese market, where demand for the Civic has been so low that the company has withdrawn it from the domestic range, the model has been consistently popular in Malaysia. With high demand, there is a waiting period which the company says is presently one month.

You can add Modulo accessories designed for the Civic to have sportier looks.

The White Orchid Pearl colour (which incurs extra cost) appears to be the favourite among customers, representing 42% of the overall sales for the latest Civic. So if you want your car faster, maybe you should choose from the other four colours, or tell the sales representative that you’ll take whatever colour is readily available.

The new Civic is available in three variants, with the 1.5-litre engine powering two of them. Prices without insurance range from
RM109,326.51
 to
RM134,661.28
 and the reduced prices will be available
until December 31, 2020
. More information and the locations of showrooms for viewing and test-drives can be found at
www.honda.com.my
.

Revised Price List for Honda Models, effective from today till December 31, 2020


Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II gets a ‘new expression’

During the time a car model is on sale, it will often receive upgrades or updates to keep it ‘fresh’. These typically include cosmetic changes that may be significant or subtle and they are referred to as ‘facelifts’. Rolls-Royce, being at the pinnacle of the car market, doesn’t use such a term. Instead, it refers to such changes as ‘a new expression’, which it announces today for the Phantom Series II.

Customer requests and feedback

The model, now in its fifth year, has received visual and aesthetic enhancements in line with customer requests and feedback that guided the designers and engineers. Not surprisingly, the customers ‘implored Rolls-Royce not to make any major changes to an already iconic motorcar’, the company reveals.

Thus the alterations made have only the lightest of design touches, embellishments, and adaptations. In this case, it is not about what should be changed but, in fact, what should be preserved and protected.

“The subtle changes we have made for the new Phantom Series II have all been minutely considered and meticulously executed. As Sir Henry Royce himself said: ‘Small things make perfection, but perfection is no small thing’,” said Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

The subtle changes

The most obvious and important feature to be retained is the limousine’s commanding presence. This has been further enhanced by a new polished horizontal line between the daytime running lights above the Pantheon Grille. This provides a new and assertive modernity, reflecting its driver-focused character.

A subtle geometric change to the Pantheon Grille makes the ‘RR’ Badge of Honour and Spirit of Ecstasy mascot more prominent when viewed from the front. The grille itself is now illuminated, a feature debuted and popularised in Ghost. The headlights are graced with intricate laser-cut bezel starlights, creating a visual connection with the Starlight Headliner inside, and adding further ‘surprise and delight’ to the Phantom’s night-time presence.

The silhouette viewed from the side preserves the elegant key lines running from the Spirit of Ecstasy to the tapering rear tail. The ‘split-belt’ line begins at the front fender and curves gently towards the rear door, emphasising the car’s long dash-to-axle proportions, before falling gently towards the lantern-like rear lamps. The heavily undercut ‘waft line’ creates a strong shadow, visually signalling the marque’s unequalled ‘Magic Carpet Ride’.

The side profile is further enhanced with a suite of new wheels. A 3D, milled, stainless steel wheel with triangular facets is available to commission in a fully or part-polished finish. Alternatively, a customer may choose a disc wheel with an elegant design recalling the romance of 1920s Rolls-Royce models. This wheel is produced in both polished stainless steel and black lacquer.

Responding to Phantom customers who have previously requested a darkened chrome grille surround, black bonnet reins, windscreen surround and side frame finishers, these may now be commissioned as well. This aesthetic now enables Rolls-Royce to transform Phantom into the lightest of light – or the darkest of dark appearances.

The ‘base’ interior has been virtually unchanged and only very sharp-eyed observers will see that the steering wheel has been made slightly thicker. This is to provide a more connected and immediate point of contact for the owner-driver.

A new ‘Rolls-Royce Connected’ feature seamlessly links the Phantom with the marque’s private members’ Application known as ‘Whispers’. This enables the owner to send an address directly to the car from Whispers, providing seamless navigation to an event, restaurant, dealership or even the Rolls-Royce headquarters where the car was born.

Phantom Platino

To mark the introduction of Phantom Series II with the new expression, and to illustrate Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke capability, a new Bespoke masterpiece has been created. This is the Phantom Platino, named after the silver-white finish of the coveted and precious metal, platinum.

The Phantom Platino continues Rolls-Royce’s exploration into fabric interiors, a story which began in 2015 with the launch of the Serenity, a truly Bespoke Phantom with a hand-painted, hand-embroidered silk interior. Now, the Phantom Platino introduces materials other than leather, an area of exploration for Rolls-Royce and a move that demonstrates a greater acceptance of alternative interior upholsteries.

In a unique design created especially for the Phantom Platino, the ‘stars’ of the Starlight Headliner overhead are placed to draw the eye rearwards, with whimsical shooting stars following the sweeping arc of the pattern.

“With Phantom Series II, we have retained and carefully protected everything our clients love about this superlative and luxurious item; subtle, yet meaningful enhancements reflect their evolving tastes and requirements. Phantom has always been viewed as the ‘best car in the world’: our Bespoke capabilities mean that, for our clients, it can be the best car for their world, too,” said Mr. Muller-Otvos.

Rolls-Royce customer in Singapore personalises Phantom with country’s national flower


All-new Hyundai Sonata and Kona launched in Malaysia

Being a righthand drive market has sometimes been a challenge for distributors as their principal may choose to focus on the lefthand drive market which offers a bigger volume globally. The additional cost of engineering a righthand drive variant may not be justified by the potential volumes so some models may not be available.

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has had that sort of problem on and off over the years, leading to some periods when there were no really new products to display in the showrooms. With the global products, of course, righthand drive models are a must and the time has come for not one but two new models to be launched in Malaysia.

The first is the Sonata which was the first Hyundai model to be sold in Malaysia way back in the early 1990s. Every generation since then has been sold and it has even been assembled locally and the eighth generation has its official launch today.

The second model is the Kona. This is Hyundai’s representative in the compact SUV segment and is a younger product which was born in 2017. It’s been doing pretty well and riding the wave of popularity for small SUVs these days.

NEW HYUNDAI SONATA

The eighth generation of the executive sedan has undergone a transformation in appearance, taking on a sleeker form that could be mistaken for a 4-door coupe. Inspired by the dramatic Le Fil Rouge concept shown at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, the new Sonata gains a sportier image than its predecessor.

The new design features the Digital Pulse Cascading Grille that spans from the front of the new Sonata, finishing at the innermost points of new combination headlamps coupled with a distinctive and innovative new lighting architecture.

Also a first for a Hyundai vehicle, the Hidden Lighting Lamps are a design innovation that incorporates state-of-the-art lighting technology, forming the Sonata’s light architecture. The Hidden Lighting Lamps appear to be chrome when switched off and become dramatically lit when turned on. It’s a design feature that you will see in other coming models as well.

The Sonata sits on a platform with a new Smartstream G2.5 powertrain. The 2.5-litre engine produces 180 ps/232 Nm which is transferred to the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission with shift-by-wire linkage.

The platform is a totally new one and the Sonata is the first model to utilize it. The engineers have significant flexibility for vehicle development across multiple segments with this platform which is made with hot-stamping and super-high-tensile steel. It has also been strengthened and with the aid of computer-aided engineering, dissipation of impact forces is carefully planned to minimize the effects on the occupants.

Inside the new Sonata

Spanning the full width of the cabin, the slim dashboard features a wide 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. This is customizable to suit different driving modes and preferences. At the centre of the  dashboard, a large, 8-inch HD screen enables occupants to interact easily with the audio-video and navigation functions. This screen can also accommodate a split-screen function that allows audio and navigation to be displayed simultaneously.

The instrument panel is in the shape of spread wings, inspired by a stealth aircraft. This shape presents a levitating effect, and this philosophy carries into the long armrests. The designers compressed the height of the dashboard and air vents as much as possible to create a ‘lightweight ambience’.

HSDM has been well known for packing a lot of features into its models, making them good value for money. With the new Sonata, there are segment-first features too, and one of them is the video-based blind spot monitor that is displayed on the instrument panel. With most other companies, blind spot monitors usually just provide an alert to the driver who must look at the door mirrors. The Sonata’s system gives a live feed so the driver does not have to turn the head at all.

The top version also includes a Head-Up Display (HUD) ahead of the driver. This is a low-cost HUD which provides useful information when driving and it is right in the forward view of vision so the driver can keep eyes on the road ahead.

Other features in the comfort and convenience areas include a sunroof, electric parking brake, smart trunk, wireless smartphone charging pad with cooling fan, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a high-quality infotainment system.

The new Sonata is available in only one variant, priced
from RM206,888
, but the first 50 buyers can get it a special introductory price from RM189,888 (Peninsular Malaysia, excluding insurance). There are 6 exterior colour choices with three interior colour themes.

NEW HYUNDAI KONA

Those who like the well known coffee from the Hawaiian Islands will be happy to know there is now a SUV from Hyundai named after it. The compact model is a new line and is the first B-segment SUV sold by HSDM.

It’s a stylish design with an athletic image that incorporates Hyundai’s new ‘face’. This is the Cascading Grille with a sporty mesh pattern, flanked by flared, wing-like fenders that house composite headlamps with high-efficiency LEDs.

To appeal to younger buyers, the colour choices are more extroverted – Chalk White, Lake Silver, Phantom Black, Pulse Red and Ceramic Blue. The 1.6 Turbo variant gets a black roof, providing high contrast between the body, roof and wheels for a more distinctive appearance.

The Kona rides on an all-new platform developed for compact SUVs. On this platform is a lightweight unibody structure, 52% of which is Advanced High Strength Steel. Proprietary hot-stamping methods produce lightweight, ultra-strong structural elements to maximize the cabin’s central safety cell.

The platform also features an innovative multi-load path structure, effectively dispersing impact energy across multiple structures to protect passengers in the event of an accident. As such, injuries can be minimised, along with the cushioning effects of airbags.

HSDM offers the Kona with a choice of  two powertrains – a 2.0-litre Nu MPI engine and a Gamma 1.6-litre 4-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine. While the bigger engine generates 149 ps/180 Nm, the smaller one with turbocharging can produce up to 177 ps, with a maximum of 265 Nm of torque starting from 1500 rpm and available till 4500 rpm. The engine is coupled to a 7-speed EcoShift dual- clutch transmission (DCT).

Inside the Kona

Although the exterior appearance is that of a compact vehicle, the interior has been packaged intelligently to maximise space for passenger comfort. Stylistically, there is a strong horizontal character line creating a wide and spacious feel.

As with the exterior colour choices, the interior has also been given a youthful touch with contrasting coloured seatbelts and interior trims. Grey-coloured interior trim and black seatbelts are matched with the Lake Silver, Phantom Black, Blue Lagoon and Ceramic Blue exteriors; Red seatbelts and Red interior trims are paired with the Phantom Black and Pulse Red exteriors; and Lime seatbelts and Lime interior trims are paired with Chalk White.

The functional dashboard houses an advanced infotainment which displays information on a floating 7-inch touchscreen. Connectivity is possible with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay so apps on smartphones can be mirrored on the dashboard. Incidentally, for those with compatible smartphones, there is also a wireless charging pad provided.

The more expensive variant has a Head-Up Display (HUD) system as well, projecting information onto the transparent panel ahead of the steering wheel. The 8-inch projected-image is visible in all lighting conditions and provides driving as well as safety information. When not in use, the HUD panel retracts into the dashboard.

While there are two engine choices, there are three variants as the 2-litre engine is available with either Standard or Active specs priced from
RM123,888
 and
RM138,888
, respectively. The Kona the 1.6 Turbo is priced from
RM151,888
.

Like the new Sonata, HSDM is offering the Kona at a special introductory price for a limited time. The 2.0 variant will be priced at RM130,888 for the Kona Active and the Kona 1.6 Turbo will be RM143,888 (Peninsula Malaysia, excluding insurance).

Click here for other news and articles about Hyundai
.


Honda Malaysia and SOCAR offer cars for use by frontliners

Collaborating with SOCAR Mobility Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Honda Malaysia is providing 50 units of its City model to frontliners in the War on COVID-19 who are also Honda customers. This programme, on a first come, first served basis, is initiated for frontliners who are unable to use their vehicles during this difficult time, in order to help ease their travel challenges.

Available for one-month duration of usage (Honda Malaysia will bear all rental charges), this collaboration with the car-sharing platform provides mobility aid for the frontliners. The move is Honda Malaysia’s way of showing appreciation to the frontliners who have a brave spirit as well as making self-sacrifices.

The latest Honda City which is available for use by frontliners.

The company hopes this initiative with SOCAR can reduce the transportation hassle of frontliners, and thus help them perform their jobs with more peace-of-mind. “Everyone is playing their part in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak, and frontliners hold an even more important role in these difficult times. Despite having to withstand extra strain that is being put on them by the current situation, their selfless dedication and sacrifice have gained utmost respect from people in Malaysia and earned worldwide recognition,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director and CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.

“On behalf of Honda Malaysia, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the frontliners; the battle against COVID-19 would have been tougher without their unwavering perseverance. Inspired by the like-minded challenging spirit, Honda Malaysia would like to assist in any way we can in this unprecedented situation,” he added.

So if you are a frontliner, especially in the healthcare area, do contact Honda Malaysia. You can do at
www.honda.com.my
 where there is also more information about the program.

Honda Origins – the manga version of Honda’s history


Volvo S60 T8 now assembled locally, still priced at RM295,888

In view of the Conditional Movement Control Order limiting gatherings, Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) today launched the locally-assembled (CKD) version of the Volvo S60 T8 online. This is essentially a follow-up from the earlier launch in October last year of the CBU (imported completely built-up) model which is now in its third generation.

The model is assembled at Volvo’s own plant in Shah Alam, Selangor, the first vehicle assembly plant in Malaysia. Rather surprisingly, even though the car is assembled locally, the price of RM295,888 (without insurance) is not lower than that of the CBU model (which was said to be ‘under-priced). Normally, the CKD model can be cheaper due to the different taxation rate applied which favours locally-assembled vehicles and the car companies pass on the savings to customers.

For exterior colour choices are available (one less than the CBU model) – Fusion Red (Metallic), Onyx Black (Metallic), Pebble Grey (Metallic) and Crystal White (Pearl). This is one less than what was available with the CBU model, the missing colour being Metallic Birch. A 5-year warranty comes with the car while service intervals are set at 20,000 kms.

The 2020 S60 T8 is pretty much the same as the CBU model, specs-wise, and as assured by VCM, the quality is also similarly high. After all, the plant has also been a regional hub for the Swedish carmaker for some time. It has received investments to upgrade its manufacturing capabilities, including laser welding equipment.

The S60 rides on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform which is used across the current Volvo range. Being modular in concept, SPA allows the engineers to develop a variety of models on the same platform, which saves R&D costs. In the case of the S60 T8, the powertrain is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) which consists of a 2-litre twin-charged (turbocharger + supercharger) 4-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor.

The latter is powered by an 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and total system output is 407 bhp/640 Nm, with maximum torque available from 1,200 rpm. Engine power goes to the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission by Aisin while the rear wheels are powered by the electric drive so the S60 has all-wheel drive.

The output numbers suggest brisk performance and indeed, this Volvo has a claimed 0 – 100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h (probably limited). However, because of the PHEV capability, it also uses less fuel and Volvo claims 50 kms/litre which is really quite amazing when you consider the performance. With a 60-litre fuel tank, that means the S60 should be good for 3,000 kms before going empty!

Like other PHEVs, the S60 T8 can run on just the electric motor alone and in this zero emissions mode, it should be able to travel up to 49 kms. Depending on the charging outlet available, recharging the battery pack to full takes around 3 hours.

For the Malaysian market, VCM includes R-Design styling features and accessories to give a sportier image to the S60. The looks are more aggressive with black-out treatment for various elements and dual tailpipes. Like all the latest Volvos, the distinctive ‘Thor’s Hammer’ graphic in the headlights provides instant identification.

The cabin has the typical Scandinavian ambience that Volvo is noted for although the interior colour theme is not light-coloured but dark. The contoured seats are wrapped in exclusive Charcoal Fine Nappa Leather with Open Grid Textile upholstery. The Digital Instrument Cluster with 12.3-inch TFT Adaptive Digital Display is complemented by a Head-Up Display (HUD) which shows important running information on the windscreen ahead of the steering wheel.

An immersive 14-speaker audio system powered by Harman Kardon is part of the Sensus Connect infotainment system. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so smartphones can be easily linked.

An additional feature for the CKD model is the handsfree operation to open the bootlid. This is a nice feature to have and once you have a car with it, you don’t want to not have it in the next car.

Volvo has been a leader in safety and its Intellisafe suite of integrated high-tech systems is adopted in the S60. This includes City Safety with Autobrake technology, which assists the driver in avoiding potential collisions and is the only system in the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. In a world-first for the mid-size sedan segment. City Safety now also engages auto braking to mitigate oncoming collisions.

The S60 has Volvo’s Intellisafe suite of driver-assistance systems
.

The Pilot Assist system – which supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 130 km/h – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. There’s also Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other driver assistance systems, now including Park Assist to make positioning the car in a parking bay much easier.

Click here for other news and articles about Volvo
.


Video: Ford GT racer hits the track

Ford GT LM GTE Pro racer hits the track ahead of 2016 racing season.

The mighty American blue oval brand looks set and ready to race into 2016, literally. The recently released a short video detailing its Ford GT LM GTE Pro race car hitting the tracks for tests ahead of the impending endurance racing calendar of 2016.

So, before the EcoBoost-powered 2017 Ford GT hits the road, it will be racing on track first starting with the infamous 24 Hours of Daytona enduro this month with the Chip Ganassi Racing Team. The supercar will later compete in both the IMSA SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) series as well.

Revealed during last year’s Detroit Motor Show, the new Ford GT supercar is scheduled to hit the streets sometime in 2017. Replacing the previous Ford GT mid-engined supercar, this new iteration sports a radical design heavily inspired by its predecessor and the original Le Mans-winning Ford GT40. It will be powered by a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that reportedly develops over 600hp too.

2017 does seem like a long way, but thankfully many will see the new Ford GT tear up the asphalt in racing first throughout 2016. Check out our extensive gallery below to see more of the 2017 Ford GT and its race-ready brethren.

2017 Ford GT

Ford GT LM GTE Pro

Source: Ford /
YouTube
 via
AutoBlog


Is PLUS really RFID-ready? Most motorists would think not.

On the night of Saturday, January 15, 2022, officials of PLUS gathered to await the first vehicles that would pass through the toll plaza using the RFID (
R
adio
F
requency
ID
entification) method of electronic toll payment (ETP). The ETP ‘system of the future’ had started its pilot run in 2018 and was already in use in certain places in Peninsular Malaysia. It would now be available to motorists travelling on the entire length of the North-South Expressway from Juru in the north to Skudai in Johor.

PLUS was promoting RFID as the successor to the SmartTAG, the infrared (IR)-based contactless method that had been in use for a long time in conjunction with the Touch ‘n Go stored value tollcard. Although the SmartTAG’s IR system has been used longer, it is not necessarily obsolete and in places like Germany, it can handle pass-through speeds of up to 100 km/h (without a barrier being present, of course). However, in spite of the long and big investment in the TnG/SmartTAG systems that have matured and are generally reliable, PLUS has made a decision to again invest in changing to RFID which it says is faster and more efficient, thereby benefitting motorists and reducing congestion.

PLUS also says that adoption of RFID will allow it to move towards, first, a Single Lane Free Flow system and ultimately, a Multi Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system without barriers. MLFF is what Malaysian motorists experience when they drive in Singapore and pass under the ERP (Electronic Road Pricing) gantries where a charge is automatically deducted. It has been in use for a long time although PLUS says that it is not fair to make comparisons as it is not ‘apples compared with apples’.

Prior to January 15, PLUS had announced that RFID would be activated at all its toll plazas from the date and would eventually replace the previous systems. It did not actually say that those existing systems would be stopped on that date but some people misread the announcement and started to spread word through social media that the TnG/SmartTAG system would stop on January 15. This naturally caused an uproar as there are some 5 million SmartTAG devices in use (with 84 million TnG cards sold to date). Apart from a reluctance to switch over by some, there was also the matter of supply and installation.

PLUS had to quickly clarify that the existing systems would still be available and that RFID would be a new and recommended alternative form of ETP at its toll plazas. In other words, there was no need to worry that come January 15, many motorists would be unable to get through the toll plazas if they did not have RFID. Meanwhile, PLUS had to slot in RFID lanes and since the toll plazas are pretty much fixed in width, certain lanes would have to be converted. Perhaps it could have done like in some places where a secondary row is built beyond the original plaza but that would have required additional investment which might not have been acceptable in this early phase of RFID. In any case, they went ahead to convert some lanes, and in some places, SmartTAG lanes were eliminated, leaving only the slower manual system of tapping the card on the reader (about half the pass-through rate compared to RFID).

As the activation of RFID occurred on a Saturday night and the next day was Sunday, which has generally lower traffic volumes on the highways, it seemed that the new system was working fine. Motorists with RFID tags were able to drive through (maximum speed: 30 km/h) and in the same way as with the SmartTAG, the charge would be deducted electronically and the barrier would swing up to allow them to proceed on their way. Even if RFID is claimed to have a faster response time, with that mechanical barrier, it’s hard to see how driving through in the RFID lane could be any faster than the SmartTAG lane.

Then came Monday morning and things looked horribly different. Though we all don’t want the MCO again, motorists caught in the unusually long queues – one said to stretch 10 kms – towards toll plazas must have wished for WFH (work from home) again. Apart from the confusion of lanes having been converted, the absence of SmartTAG lanes in some places would also have frustrated motorists used to having relatively smooth passage through the toll plaza without stopping (albeit in a queue). Now, all those without RFID had to stop and tap manually or if there were some SmartTAG lanes, the queue was longer since some had been taken away for RFID.

Not surprisingly, news of the mess appeared on social media very quickly. To make things worse was the failure of the sensors to detect the RFID tags on some vehicles. This meant that they were stuck in the narrow lane, unable to reverse and let others go ahead. With SmartTAG, if there was a problem of non-detection and reversing was not possible, the driver still has the option of taking the card out and tapping on the reader at the side. 100% of the time, this will bring the barrier up unless the balance is too low.

With social media, particularly Facebook, such happenings become known nationally within a very short time. The PLUS Facebook page was bombarded with complaints and criticisms and individuals also posted pictures of cars being stuck in long jams. Hopefully, employers were understanding enough to accept the explanation for lateness being blamed on PLUS.

Throughout the day and night and up till today, PLUS seemed silent on the matter. In fact, it seemed like the company was indifferent to the matter, which caused more anger, as it spread the ‘positive news’ about the implementation of RFID, and Touch ‘n Go Malaysia even congratulated PLUS on the event. However, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof did not do the same thing; instead, having become aware of the situation, he directed PLUS to resolve the issues quickly, softening the stern statement by saying that RFID technology is ‘a pioneering technology and there will be several issues that need to be addressed’.

The thing is, RFID as a concept has been around since World War II and since the beginning of this century, the tiny tag (which costs less than RM1 but is sold for RM35) has been used in many different kinds of industries which need a tracking solution, including the transport industry. It could even be considered a mature technology, like the IR technology used for the SmartTAG and whatever local issues there were should have been addressed during the past 3 years that it has been in actual use.

Perhaps in all the trials, the traffic volume was small, so the environment was different from a full-scale deployment. The system might not have been ‘stress-tested’ for continuous rush-hour traffic passing through every second so it may not have been ‘tuned’ to cope. But that’s just speculation on our part, we must add.

Prior to January 15, during a session with the media, PLUS gave assurance that they would be ready for any ‘hiccups’ during implementation and there would be staff on standby to assist if detection failed. While this would be expected for any new system, it is evident from the long queue that there must have been a high failure rate that even that stand-by procedure could not prevent.

There are many reports of owners puzzled and frustrated by their RFID tag not being detected. Unlike the SmartTAG which many hold in their hand and can sometimes be at the wrong angle so the IR beam does not hit the sensor, the RFID tag is in a fixed position – on the top corner of the windscreen or on the headlight. It is stuck on the outside, so it is exposed to the sun and rain and dust. Hopefully, the quality is of the same standard as what carmakers have for their exterior parts as Malaysian motorists are fed up with the lousy quality of roadtax discs that don’t seem to stick properly (and they are on the inside of the glass).

In theory, the RFID tag (if it is working properly) should not fail although the vehicle must not be travelling faster than 30 km/h. It would be hard to go fast anyway with the barrier right in front. PLUS engineers would have done all the testing to determine optimum distances for the sensors and particularly ensuring that there would be no ‘collision’ of signals.

Correct placement of the RFID tag is important.

One thing that might cause the problems is improper placement and from what we have learnt, close proximity to metal surfaces (like the A-pillar) could cause interference and it is possible that some headlight designs might also cause problems. But if the installation was done by authorized professionals, then the placement should have been correct and initially, there were also machines to verify that the tag was working properly.

However, to make things easier, the RFID tags have also been available for sale to the public so they can install it themselves. It’s not really that difficult (like sticking on the roadtax disc) so many may have chosen that option and done it themselves. Some may not have done it properly, hence the problems. So it is best to go to an installation centre and have a professional do it. If it doesn’t work, you can go back and demand rectification or replacement. Otherwise, you have to come out with another RM35 for a new one.

Besides going to the Fitment Centres, motorists can also purchase the RFID tag online and attach it to the headlight or windscreen themselves. The price is the same as at the Fitment Centre but you probably have to pay a delivery charge.

PLUS is well aware of the detection issues and in its announcement today, it said that the personnel will use a handheld device to scan the RFID tag. Should the tag still remain undetectable, a coupon for a full detection diagnosis at a Touch ‘n Go fitment centre will be provided. If the RFID tag still has detection issues after testing, Touch ‘n Go will replace the RFID tag for free. If it is a placement issue, guess you have to spend another RM35 for a new one as the tag is not designed to be removed after being installed.

The fact that the RFID tag, unlike a TnG card, is tied to a specific vehicle has not been well accepted. In our case (which is really a very small group), we test different vehicles regularly. A few companies are kind enough to provide a TnG card to use but most of the time, we just use our own. With a RFID tag, how will we settle the toll charge as the account linked to it is not in our control? It’s an issue we have not figured out yet.

Rental car companies would also be unhappy as they will need to find a way to settle toll charges with the customer as each vehicle they rent has a specific tag. Will they ask the customer to pay a deposit? Or should the customer pay RM35 and buy their own RFID TAG and fix it, which may be troublesome for a tourist who does not have a bank account in Malaysia.

Although the Touch’nGo card was initially only for toll payment, its usage has grown and can today be used to pay for other services such as parking and public transport. Will RFID offer such flexible usage?

The inflexibility of the RFID tag also makes it less appealing to motorists. Over the past 10 years, TnG has been promoted as not only being for toll payment but for an increasing number of services. Malaysians have come to accept it as a convenient form of cashless payment for travelling on public transport and parking. It can be considered a successful implementation of a new payment process and it has a lot of flexibility. For example, you can pass a card to another family member to use. With the RFID tag, it seems that its only use is for ETP and for specific vehicles, unless one day, they say that if you agree to stick it on your face, you can also use it for travel on public transport.

In just two days, PLUS has caused a great deal of anger to those who use its highways but the company seems indifferent to this fact, as can be seen from
its statement today
. There is not a word of apology for the inconvenience caused but rather a suggestion that the introduction has gone well and they have seen 10% greater usage of RFID.

To make matters worse, our friends at
Pandulaju
 discovered that the company had stopped allowing the public to post comments on its Facebook page. Although the decision was apparently reversed later and comments can be posted, it further angered the public who felt that the company was not willing to face criticism.

Instead, PLUS suggested that the public give them feedback using their own channel on their website and app which is called
P.U.T.R.I.
 and uses a chatbot. This takes all the negative remarks away from the public eye, of course. The chatbot is not really a good thing to use as it is programmed to respond in specific ways, while attempting to give the ‘feel’ of interacting with a human. If you tell ‘her’ that you are unhappy with the RFID system, you will find that the responses will make you tear your hair out. But PUTRI is humble and promises to ‘be smarter’, but just cannot offer help in taking the complaint. [
Click here
 to view an example of interaction with PUTRI]

So what’s going to happen in the coming days? Today being a holiday, traffic has been less but tomorrow, it is likely that many will decide not to risk using the RFID lane and choose the TnG or SmartTAG lanes. As there are now less lanes than before, the jams will be worse than before. The RFID lanes will seem to be the faster route so the ‘optics’ will be good for PLUS which can say ‘those were just teething problems and now you can see that cars pass through fast enough that there are no jams’.

If PLUS has full confidence in the RFID system being superior and has high detection rate, then remove the barriers and let vehicles pass through smoothly, like in Singapore. It will definitely encourage many motorists to switch over.

Admittedly, this article has been critical and we are often told that solutions should also be offered when complaining that something is wrong or not working. So here’s our suggestion: if PLUS is  confident with the RFID system, then remove the barrier and allow vehicles to pass through and use the system as it was intended. If detection fails, then it is not the fault of the motorist and PLUS will just have to accept the loss of the toll charge. If nothing else, this would certainly inspire the tech side or the supplier of the system to ensure 99.9% detection since non-detection of too many vehicles would lose a lot of money for the company.

From Touch ‘n Go to SmartTAG to RFID – is it necessary?

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and although you may not show symptoms, you could spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.


New Turkish technology company, Togg, aims to produce a million electric vehicles by 2030

In the 20
th
 century, becoming a significant player in the auto industry required experience and staying power to withstand the cyclical nature of the industry. From the time of the world’s first car by Karl Benz, hundreds of individuals and companies have come and gone in their attempts to establish themselves, only the fittest and strongest making it through the decades to today.

But in the 21
st
 century, the game has changed and long experience is not necessarily required. The products are changing and instead of ‘transport’, ‘mobility’ is the catchword today. Numerous start-ups have appeared in the industry in the past 20 years, offering a new generation of vehicles, mostly running on electricity. Though fragmented in one sense, they pose a challenge to the established brands which have resources but are hampered by their size when it comes to charting new courses forward.

The best example of these newcomers is Tesla, just 17 years old and, in 2021, Kantar BrandZ found it to be the most valuable and fastest growing auto brand on the planet, more than trebling its value from 2020. And its co-founder, Elon Musk, became the richest person in the world with a US$278 billion net worth at the end of 2021.

Others are obviously inspired by such success and in Turkey, M. Gurcan Karakas has started a company that is not a traditional automobile manufacturer but will enter the auto industry with differentiated approach as a technology brand focused on mobility. Introducing his 3-year old company, Togg, at CES 2022 this week, Gurcan Karakas said: “The transformation that occurred in the mobilephone industry in response to changing user expectations is occurring in the automotive industry today. More agile, creative, collaborative, user-centric organizations, not necessarily the big and established brands, will be the most successful in the near future. The race in this field is just beginning, and we are in this race. Moreover, we have a significant advantage because we were born into this world.”

Togg aims to serve as the backbone of the Turkish mobility ecosystem with 100% Turkish intellectual and industrial property. It will be Europe’s first non-classical born electric SUV manufacturer when it begins production in Gemlik later this year, rolling out electric and connected next-generation vehicles and a mobility ecosystem to support them. By the end of this decade, the company expects to be producing a million vehicles in 5 different segments.

“By the end of 2022, we will launch our first mass production vehicle,” said Gurkan Karakas. “Our first vehicle in the C-segment, an SUV, will be launched in the first quarter of 2023 following the completion of homologation tests. It will be the first electric SUV produced in continental Europe by a non-traditional manufacturer. A C-segment sedan and a C-segment hatchback will then enter production. With the addition of the B-SUV and C-MPV to the family in the coming years, our product range will be completed with 5 models sharing the same DNA and same platform.”

Referring to its model shown at CES 2022 as a ‘smart device’, the car has a dynamic fastback form that introduces Togg’s styling DNA. The basis of the car’s styling concept is the muscular rear design and the shoulderline that extends from the headlights to the rear, presenting a strong side profile.

Togg’s team sought to retain the company’s Turkish origins while creating a global brand. The car’s illuminated Togg logo is said to represent the unification of Eastern and Western cultures. “The two arrows in the logo design represent the fusion of East and West, forming a gemstone in the center. The duality theme in our logo encourages us to strive for a rational and emotional balance between East and West in both exterior and interior design. Additionally, our logo emphasizes that Togg is a technology company that connects technology and people at the juncture of today and tomorrow through its life-improving mobility solutions,” Gurkan Karakas explained.

Gemlik, the home of Togg located 128 kms south of Istanbul, is a world leader in olive production. By establishing what is claimed to be Europe’s cleanest production facility, Togg aims to ensure that the centuries-old olive trees in the city continue to thrive for thousands of years. This ambition was presented at CES by a real olive tree – with a lifespan of over 1,000 years – planted alongside a 3D-printed olive tree made from recycled plastic, created in 1001 hours.


“Being there” helps Toyota make its cars ever better (w/VIDEO)

In the early years after Toyota Motor Corporation was established, there was an incident where a company using a Toyota G1 lorry  contacted a dealer to get assistance because it broke down. It so happened that Kiichiro Toyoda, founder of Toyota, heard about the matter at the same time and personally led a team of engineers to where the dealer’s service staff were repairing the vehicle. Besides providing assistance, the engineers wanted to find out what has caused the breakdown. They had their answer and quickly relayed it back to the factory where alterations were made to prevent the same problem from occurring.

A re-enactment of the episode where Toyota engineers personally went to investigate a breakdown with one of their customer’s lorries.

In the years and decades to follow, this episode would serve to demonstrate the importance and value of  ‘
Genchi Genbutsu
’, a Japanese phrase which is a way of thinking where information is gained and decisions made based on personal viewing of the problem, not just relying on reports by others. Seeing or experiencing the problem firsthand is deemed the best way to get to the source of what was wrong. “When a problem arises, the shortest route to final resolution is to return to the source and pinpoint what is truly wrong,” was the constant reminder from Toyoda.

‘
Genchi Genbuts
u’ is partly what the Toyota 5 Continents Drive Project is all about; as the name indicates, the drive goes through 5 continents of the world, enabling Toyota personnel to see and experience the different conditions and cultures where Toyota sells its vehicles. It’s not been a continuous drive since 2014 when it started in Australian but has been a yearly exercise, with Asia being the last continent.

Inspired by Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, the 5 Continents Drive Project aims to make product improvements with a more deeply informed approach, ultimately delivering ever-better cars to customers around the world.

The Toyota 5 Continents Drive has covered 4 continents – Australia, North America, Africa and South America – since starting in 2014.

The total distance travelled since 2014 has been approximately 103,000 kms. Data collected has already been flowing back to Toyota City, with improvements made in various areas as a result of the participants understanding issues. Toyota employees travelling in many different countries on 4 continents prior to Asia have had experiences and gained knowledge that cannot be gained simply from driving cars on test courses or simulated in climatic chambers.

There have not just been improvements for products but also in manufacturing and white-collar management areas such as logistics, costing, etc. Although the Toyota 5 Continents Drive Project will conclude next year, this is ongoing process and learnings will continue to be implemented into future models as well, thus promoting sustainable development.

Recently, the convoy of vehicles for the Asian leg travelled through Malaysia after having started in the Middle East in February this year and then passing through India. It is the first part of the Asian leg which will conclude next year when Japan hosts the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Akio Takeyama, Chief Motorsports Officer and also the Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor, flagged off the convoy from S&D Tama, an authorized Toyota dealership in Penang. There were 9 Toyota vehicles in this leg of the 5 Continents Drive Project – Hilux, Fortuner, Innova, Vios, Corolla, Rush, CH-R and Yaris.

The vehicles used for the Malaysian leg were those currently available in the market.

“We are delighted that Malaysia is included in the Toyota 5 Continents Drive Project, a project that is of high priority to Toyota Motor Corporation,” said Mr. Takeyama. “The varied conditions of roads and traffic should provide the participants with valuable insights that can help them develop ever-better cars for our customers.”

The route included a drive up the steep slopes of Cameron Highlands, providing an experience of the different humidity levels in the country as well as the road conditions. The convoy then continued south to Singapore with a stop at Shah Alam, Selangor, where UMW Toyota Motor’s head office is located. The participants were briefed on the company’s background, activities, customer profiles, local market conditions and GAZOO Racing (GR) initiatives in Malaysia. After the Malaysian leg ended, the convoy crossed over to Singapore. The remaining countries for the Asian leg are Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

“Toyota has always made reliable cars but today’s customers have more demands, so ‘good’ is no longer enough and we need to offer great cars,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “The Toyota 5 Continents Drive Project should help towards developing ever-better cars.”

The 5 Continents Drive Project is carried out under the umbrella of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing initiatives. In Malaysia, the GR Brand is one of the key pillars for brand messaging which includes the Toyota GR Festival, GR Velocity Esports Championship and the recently-introduced GR Garage concept. Malaysia is the first country outside of Japan to adopt this concept for specifically showcasing GR models like the all-new Supra and related products.

To know more about Toyota vehicles available in Malaysia, visit
www.toyota.com.my
 .

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


BMW M5 Edition 35 Years unveiled – Only 350 units worldwide

It was exactly 35 years ago when BMW introduced the very first high-performance sedan in its class which combines bonkers driving dynamics and performance with the comfort and functionality of a 4-door-sedan. This time around, they decided to celebrate it by launching the 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years.

Highly regarded as one of the world’s most successful high-performance sport sedans, this particular special edition BMW M5 kicks things up a few notches, starting with the most powerful engine in the model’s history under the bonnet. We’re talking 625hp here, folks.

This is due to its 4.4-litre V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo Technology (based on the M5 Competition), a maximum output of 625hp and a maximum torque of 750Nm along with the ‘particularly direct engine connection, the distinctively configured suspension technology, the all-wheel drive system M xDrive and the Active M Differential in the rear axle transmission.’

In other words, 0-100kmh in just 3.3 seconds and 10.8 seconds to reach 200kmh.

The exterior of the 2020 BMW M5 Edition 35 Years is specially finished in Frozen Dark Grey II with a unique pigmentation that creates a silk matt surface. This certainly matches with its new 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Y spoke design finished with Graphite Grey that were created exclusively for the Edition model.

In addition, the calipers of the standard M compound brake system are finished in high-gloss black. The M carbon ceramic brake system is optionally available with brake calipers finished in gold.

Step inside and you will be welcomed with M multifunction seats and BMW Individual Merino full black leather trim with beige seams. To further elevate its interior, aluminium carbon structure gold anodized are presented here for the first time.

Door sill finishers bearing the inscription “M5 Edition 35 Jahre” and a lasing engraving with the inscription “M5 Edition 35 Jahre 1/350” on the cupholder cover in the centre console are further distinguishing marks of the Edition vehicles.

The best part? Only 350 units will be produced and made available starting July 2019. As for pricing, the US market is selling each model at $129,000, which is around RM 538,781. If it does arrive here in Malaysia, we’re pretty sure that the price will be slightly higher than this. But what do we care, we would definitely grab one if we had the money. No questions asked.


CLASSIC CARS: The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show Is Back For 2018! Mark Your Calendars!

The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show
 returns to Langkawi for the second time with a bigger and better show at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) this August. The Island of Langkawi will once again play host to a fleet of
Vintage and Classic Cars
 in a one-of-a-kind classic car show and concours.

This show is the only classic car show in Malaysia to receive a royal accolade. It is organised by
MY Classic Cars
 in collaboration with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA). The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show will be held from
10th to 12th of August 2018
 at the
Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC)
or better known as
 “Dewan LIMA”
 to locals.

The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show 2018 will see over
50 Vintage
and
 Classic Cars
 on display. In addition to the display, the proud owners of these cars will be competing for a show and shine competition that offers
“money can’t buy”
 trophies and prize money of up to
RM30,000
. Two (2) special awards will also be up for grabs –
Langkawi Cup
 and the coveted
Sultan’s Choice Award
, an award unique to The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show.

5 categories have been determined for this year’s competition namely
Vintage
 (before 1945),
Classic 1
 (1946-1960),
Classic 2
 (1961 – 1975),
Modern Classic
 (1976 – 1990) and a new addition to this year’s show –
Japanese Classics
also known as
 JDM
 (up to 1990).

Visitors to the car show can also expect so see some very rare car makes and models from as early as 1925. This year’s highlights includes a display of Porsches from 3 eras –
Porsche 356, Porsche 964
and the
 944 S2 Convertible
, a display of the ever famous
Minis
 –Mini Traveller, Mini Pick Up, MK3 and a Mini Moke, dressed up in a truly Malaysian style.

Visitors will also be able to catch a glimpse of the
Rolls Royce 25/27
 manufactured in
1925
, deemed as the most desired luxury car make of yesteryear. A
Volkswagen Kombi
 that made a journey from Malaysia to Germany covering some
26,000km
,

as well as a
Ford Capri
 which did a
11,000km
 journey (below) from
Malaysia
 to
Sri Lanka
 will also be featured during the show.

This year’s show is proudly sponsored by Ricca Ventures Sdn Bhd, Pickles Asia Sdn Bhd, Zeeb Sdn Bhd, Neuhealth, Zoom Nine G Sdn Bhd, Datford Classics Sdn Bhd, Unicar Auto Works and Aseania Resort & Spa as the retuning hotel partner.

About the The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show…

RLCCS is an international standard car show aimed at bringing together Vintage and Classic Car owners, collectors and enthusiasts from across the nation and regionally especially from neighboring countries like Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia under one roof. The show is poised to be an annual calendar event after a successful debut in 2017 placing Langkawi and Malaysia on the international classic car show calendar and a premier meeting point for Vintage and Classic Car owners both regionally and beyond in the next few years. The showcase is open to the general public, with free admission from
10th to 12th August 2018
.

For more information on The Royal Langkawi Classic Car Show 2018, log on to
www.lada.gov.my
 or follow us on
Facebook
 at
www.facebook.com/theroyallangkawiclassiccarshow


WTCR: Michelisz extends championship lead with Race 1 win

The final round of the 2019 FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR) kicked off to a wonderful start for Norbert Michelisz (BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse) here in Sepang where he emerged victorious in Race 1. Driving the Hyundai i30 N TCR, Michelisz now extends his lead in the driver’s championship with 351 points.

Aurélien Panis (Comtoyou DHL Team CUPRA Racing) also had something to celebrate as he crossed the chequered flag in second place. It was a tough battle, especially in the slightly wet conditions, but the 25-year-old Frenchman persevered with his powerful Seat Cupra TCR race machine to achieve his first ever WTCR podium finish. That’s 20 points added to his 2019 season which now totals at 122 points.

Michelisz’s teammate, Gabriele Tarquini, scored the final podium position in Race 1. It was also a tough race for the seasoned 57-year-old Italian, but his podium-finishing move was executed in Lap 4 when Néstor Girolami (ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport) and his Honda Civic dropped positions and ended the race in P22.

It was a mixed ending for the Cyan Racing Lynk & Co outfits as Yvan Muller managing to salvage P6 from an amazing P16 grid while Andy Priaulx and Yann Ehrlacher scored valuable team points when they finished Race 1 in P11 and P14 respectively. Thed Björk had some sort of mechanical issues at the beginning where he was forced to pit his Lynk & Co O3+ before going out again and finishing the race in dead last (P27).

Stay tuned for Race 2 and Race 3 results later where the battle for the best driver and team have yet to be decided between Cyan Racing Lynk & Co, BRC Hyundai N Squadra Corse, and ALL-INKL.COM Münnich Motorsport.

WTCR: Cyan Racing Lynk & Co confident to win in Sepang


Ford Bronco R race prototype for Baja 1000 is a teaser for 2020 production Bronco

Long before the appearance of the small SUVs that are so popular today, Ford was selling a 4×4 vehicle that would have been called a compact SUV had the term been in use then. It was known as the Bronco and sold during the 1960s and 1970s as a rival to the Jeep. The model line went through a few generations until the mid-1990s when its engineering was dated compared to the new generation of SUVs coming into the market.

The Bronco name is still fondly remembered by many (in America) and Ford has said that it is working on bringing back the model in 2020. Although there were rumours it would be a rebadged Everest, Ford has said that it will not be done that way and will have a new design using the platform of the current T6 Ranger (previous generations of the Bronco sat on the F-Series chassis).

The Ford Bronco R race prototype with the original first generation model (left).

Celebrating a historic win 50 years ago

While we’re waiting for the new Bronco to be unveiled (possibly in Detroit in January?), the Bronco R race prototype shows some clues as to what it will look like. It debuts in the desert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Rod Hall’s historic Baja 1000 win, an overall victory in a 4×4 that’s never been duplicated in 50 years. As a test, the Bronco R will head back to the Baja Peninsula later this month to take on the near 1,600-km gruelling off-road course and challenge the production Bronco’s powertrain and architecture.

Ford’s Bronco R race prototype debuts in the desert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a historic Baja 1000 win, an overall victory in a 4×4 that’s never been duplicated in 50 years.

And as a tease, the Bronco R – developed by Ford Performance in collaboration with builder Geiser Bros Design and Development and Baja 1000 Trophy Truck champion Cameron Steele – drops heritage-inspired design and proportion hints of what enthusiasts can expect to see when the future Bronco makes its world premiere.

Iconic Bronco design

Hidden behind an innocuous security door in a Ford studio basement, a small team led by Paul Wraith, Bronco chief designer, worked since July to make the race prototype unmistakably Bronco at first sight. The team worked in secret to create a one-off build that hints at the all-new Bronco to come, while paying homage to the first-generation styling and proportions.

The team focused on creating a race-ready look with an overall heritage-inspired design language. With its compressed body height and long-travel suspension, the Bronco R features an ultra-wide stance, while a variety of aero components reinforce its performance intent.

The prototype’s lightweight composite body includes a clamshell bonnet and roof, as well as clean body panels that are reminiscent of the first-generation Bronco. A cut-roof design allows rear seat passengers to use a second-row hatch for access.

The first generation of the Bronco.

Race-focussed exterior

The exterior incorporates 15 LED lightbars, including a grille sequence framing the new BRONCO brand lettering boldly. To underscore that this is a one-of-a-kind racing prototype, the ‘R’ is given a sharp graphic treatment. Washers inscribed with the Bronco name are visible at various points around the exterior and secure the composite skin to the roll cage beneath it.

A unique race-focused interior features lightweight off-road racing shells from Recaro for all three seating positions. Simple surfaces of the instrument panel nod to the first-generation, and the integration of a MoTeC data acquisition system enables real-time monitoring and measurement of the prototype’s performance attributes.

The Bronco R race prototype is designed with the production model’s body-on-frame architecture to test its capability and durability. It is modified from the Ranger’s chassis which will be the base for the production model. Beefed up for Baja, it has independent front suspension with 355 mm of travel and a production-based 5-link rear suspension with almost 500 mm of travel, plus custom Fox shocks, 17-inch beadlock-capable aluminim wheels and 37-inch BFGoodrich tyres.

The production Bronco will use the same platform as the current global Ranger pick-up available from Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

“Like the original Bronco, we kept Bronco R’s design authentic and simple, with a roll cage on a production-style frame, and a 5-piece lightweight body on top,” said Brian Novak, Ford Performance off-road racing supervisor. “For the endurance needs of Baja’s 1,600 gruelling kms, we built in a limited number of race-focused parts. But even the twin turbos of the EcoBoost engine are representative of what the production Bronco will offer.”

The new Bronco is unlikely to be sold in Malaysia but if you are interested in the Ranger, which has the same rugged platform, visit a
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion
 showroom for a test-drive.


Toyota Teases New C-HR, Confirmed For 26 June Launch

Prior to its official debut on June 26, Toyota has teased the next-generation Toyota C-HR, which features a bumper-width rear light bar and an illuminated rear logo.

The totally redesigned small SUV is ready to compete with models like the
Nissan Juke
 and
Kia Niro
, going upmarket by adding a plug-in hybrid powertrain to its lineup. The Japanese company describes it as “edgy” and “sophisticated.”

Recent pictures of the car being tested on public roads appear to reveal the ultimate production model, which should mark a significant shift from the current version.

The Mk2 C-HR, which is scheduled to go on sale by 2024, will be a near relative of the new Toyota Prius, sharing the same TNGA platform and being offered with a similar selection of parallel-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The latter is said to have a PHEV configuration similar to the Prius, partnering a front-mounted, 158-horsepower electric motor with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine to produce a total of 221 bhp. That’s a 40bhp boost over the current (2.0-litre parallel-hybrid) C-HR.

An 80 km electric-only range would be feasible if the C-HR also uses the 13.6kWh battery from the Prius (which would likely take advantage of economies of scale and reduce costs).

Although the darkened teaser photo obscures how similar the concept of the production car will appear, it is obvious that the C-shaped headlights and wraparound rear light bar will make it to the showrooms.

Because of the C-HR’s relatively unreasonable price and subpar specifications, it never really caught on in Malaysia. So will we see the C-HR make a comeback in Malaysia?


Former Perodua President, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh, appointed Chairman of MBM Resources

When Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh retired at the end of last year, he said that he would like to spend his time sharing and passing on his experiences and knowledge gained in over 25 years in the auto industry. He served in various roles in UMW Toyota Motor, including establishing and heading the division which handled the Lexus premium brand. After that, he was appointed President & CEO of Perodua, leading it through a period of significant development and growth.

Now, MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR) will benefit from having Datuk Aminar to provide guidance as the new Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors. He takes over from Dato’ Abdul Rahim bin Abd Halim who has been holding the position since 2007 and is retiring from the Board as Directors.

Industry veteran with long ties to Daihatsu

Dato’ Abdul Rahim bin Abdul Halim

Dato’ Abdul Rahim too is a veteran in the auto industry and has an association with the Daihatsu brand going back to 1977 when he was in Med-Bumikar-MARA which imported the 1-litre Daihatsu Charade. He remained with the company, moving up as it evolved into the public-listed Med-Bumikar Mara Sdn. Bhd. Group of Companies (the MBM Group) in 1995.

Datuk Aminar will be involved in Perodua again in his new role as MBMR has the second largest shareholding of 20% in the Malaysian carmaker. MBMR also has a 42% share in Hino Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. Besides handling the Daihatsu brand via subsidiary Daihatsu (Malaysia), it is also involved in the retail business as dealer for the Volvo and Volkswagen brands.

MBMR also expanded into automotive parts manufacturing with the acquisition of wheel manufacturer, Oriental Metal Industries (M) Sdn. Bhd.; and Autoliv Hirotako Sdn. Bhd. and Hirotako Acoustics Sdn. Bhd.

MBMR is the second largest shareholder on Perodua.

Assurance of continuity in leadership

A statement from MBMR regarding the change of leadership gave assurance that, ‘despite the departure of the long-serving and experienced directors and the Chairman, the Board is committed in ensuring continuity and has made several changes in the Board composition to focus on plans and strategies to boost MBMR’s future growth. The restructuring of the committee includes the appointment of the new members in the Audit and Risk Management Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC) and Chairman of MBMR Group.’


Reviewed: Porsche 718 Cayman S – Make It Happen! [+Videos & Mega Photo Gallery!]

It’s the age-old question isn’t it? If you could have only ONE car in your porch/garage, what would it be? Something that only you would use to both commute in, as well as partake in the occasional Sunday / weekend drive with the boys. Well guys (and gals), in the sub-RM1 mil bracket, I think I might have just found such a car recently…

Unveiled at the opening of Porsche Centre Penang in the first quarter of 2017 (
Sime Darby Auto Performance Officially Opens Porsche Centre Penang
)

the 718 Cayman S and its sibling the 718 Cayman are the latest pair to bear the Porsche ‘numeric’ that adorns all its cars.

Image courtesy of The Revs Institute

Drawing design inspiration from the likes of the
1963 Porsche 550 Coupe
 (above), the new 718 Cayman is a stylishly-sporty little thing. One of the best features are its wide hind flanks…

…clearly visible from the wing-mirrors. Its swooping rear affords the 718 a more ‘fastback’ design, something that both old- and new-school car enthusiasts will appreciate for sure.

Right-off the bat, the first thing anyone will feel when getting behind the wheel of the 718 Cayman S is just how comfortable and compliant it is. No kidding, it’s far from what you’d expect a strict 2-seater to feel like. Ensconced in the snug cabin and cradled comfortably by those exquisite seats, the 718 ensures that all drives, be it a short-hop or long-haul, are seen to in fine, comfortable style.

But before this starts sounding like a brochure, let’s get it straight; there’s still
350bhp
 and
420Nm
 of torque from that ‘hidden’ gem of a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder VTG turbocharged (Variable Turbine Geometry) engine at the back, which allows the Cayman S to accelerate from 0 to 100kmh in a brisk
4.2sec
, and on to a top-speed of
285kmh
.

That’s what the ‘boot’ looks like (above), and the only way to show the engine to you is via that stock image, because out the back is this (below). That’s also my only gripe about the 718 Cayman… there’s no way to see its engine, not without removing panels.

Small inconsequential matter really, because these days, only a certified and authorized Porsche technician would know how to fix anything wonky anyway, so personal access to the engine is a moot point. I wonder how soon before this becomes a standard across
all
 car makes. Sorry, I digress. Back to the car…

Of course for the little kid in all of us, there’s also a ‘muffler sound’ button on the centre-console, which when activated allows the 718 to clear its throat so to speak. A flap opens somewhere within the annals of the exhaust system, and the 718 just bellows. So despite being a flat-four and not a six, the 718 still imparts that raucous exhaust note that Porsche purists will expect and appreciate.

Killing off that fun-button settles the 718 to a quiet, comfortable, unassuming sports-coupe, and with the PDK auto-slotted in seventh gear, puttering along at legal highway speeds returns a drive that completely belies this cars’ external appearance; it gets quiet. Eerily quiet. Very un-Porsche.

However, in a very split-personality kind of way, the 718 Cayman S is able to transform itself from a docile, comfortable coupe, to a raging, bellowing beast, the moment you peel-off the highway and hit that favourite stretch of back-road. This is where you’ll discover where all the decades of R&D in chassis tuning, balance and power-delivery have paid off.

The 718 Cayman S, despite being uncannily comfortable during normal driving, is somehow able to turn itself into something that feels more track-biased than a road car. The way it is able to put the power down, and remain composed in the tightest corners, the way it’s able to let the tail hang-out just enough to set up the next corner is unbelievable. PSM, despite being active, still allows a modicum of ‘spirited-sideways’ play, and will only intervene at the point where it reckons the driver has really ‘lost it’.

It even has a lateral G-force meter in the instrument cluster, but for the life of me I can’t figure out why. If you’re creating enough
gees
 in a corner to be of any significance whatsoever, believe me, taking your eyes off the road to look at a small G-force meter is the
last
 thing you wanna do. And besides, you’ll pass-out from the centrifugal force long before achieving anything remotely bragworthy anyway…

These are just toys of course, like that muffler fun-button; add-ons to make the drive a bit more fun, and perhaps justify this cars’
RM700,000
 asking price. I love the fact that Porsche has dialled so much of this ‘fun’ into the 718 Cayman S, really. When it comes down to it, for cars like this in this segment of the market, and putting aside all brands, all categories, all on-the-road prices, et al, isn’t that what it all boils down to? Fun. And just for fun, check out this video on the coolest cup-holders, ever…

So yeah, back to that question which started this article; one garage, one car. Your car, less than a mil. What would it be? It doesn’t have to be this of course, but as an option to consider, the 718 Cayman S certainly ticks all the right boxes for that. Hope you like the videos! –
Chris Wee.

VIDEO
: Porsche 718 Cayman S driving impression, skip to the
7min mark
, before that I talk about the recent

Bikes on the Federal Highway
 issue…

VIDEO
: Front view Porsche 718 Cayman S drive, skip to the
10min mark
 for the exterior walk-around…

VIDEO
: Porsche 718 Cayman S engine sound at start-up from the cockpit…

Porsche 718 Cayman S Specifications:
718 Cayman S Spec Sheet

Porsche 718 Cayman S Full Manufacturer Details:
PA_PM_718Cayman_EN

Porsche 718 Cayman & Cayman S Photo Gallery…


More than 15 million Toyota hybrid vehicles have been sold worldwide

During the 1990s, Toyota launched two models that created new market segments almost overnight. The first was the RAV4, which started the small passenger-car based SUV trend but the second was of great significance. It was the Prius, the pioneer of mass-produced hybrid vehicles.

Today, many carmakers have models with hybrid powertrains too and of the many millions on the roads all over the world, over 15 million have been made by Toyota.

Toyota’s decision to develop hybrid electric vehicles started over 25 years ago when Takeshi Uchiyamada (the company’s Chairman today) led a team to develop a car for the 21st century. Concern for the environment was growing, with momentum coming from the Kyoto Protocol to address climate change, which many nations committed to.

“When we launched Prius, no one even knew what a hybrid was but thanks to early adopters, hybrids have ridden a wave of success into the mainstream,” said Mr. Uchiyamada.

First generation of the Prius

Toyota focussed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions (specifically carbon dioxide) and other harmful pollutants. With more than 15 million hybrids already in use, Toyota believes that it has made a significant contribution to the environment by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 120 million tonnes worldwide to date (compared to sales of equivalent vehicles with internal combustion petrol engines alone).

The first generation of the Prius was launched in 1997 and in the years that followed, more Toyota (as well as Lexus) models gained hybrid powertrains. There are at least 44 models available globally today.

More than a numerical milestone, the continued and increasing use of hybrid powertrains demonstrates the staying power of the technology. It is a mainstream solution to reduce environmental pollution and also consumption of fossil fuel. This achievement builds on the belief that widespread adoption of more environmentally-friendly vehicles can make a significant positive impact worldwide.

Some of the Toyota hybrid models available today.

Hybrid leads to BEV and FCEV

While Toyota believes that hybrid vehicles are an essential part of the future overall mix of electrified vehicles, two decades of electrification experience also feed into the company’s multi-powertrain strategy. The company does not see a ‘one winner takes all’ scenario but a future where the different electrified technologies – hybrids and plug-in hybrids, fuel cell (FCEV) and battery electric (BEV) vehicles – all play a part.

Hybrid technology is the core technology which can be used in the development of electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHV) fuel cell vehicles. (FCVs)

As a result of its long hybrid electric vehicle experience, the company has deep transferable expertise in the core electrification technologies which are common across all form of electrified powertrains. Over two decades of continuous development of electric motors, batteries and power control units has taught Toyota how to manage and reuse energy efficiently, providing a range of electrified options for customers.

Toyota hybrid models in Malaysia

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) began selling the Prius when it started its third generation in 2009. Due to the heave taxes on CBU (completely built-up) vehicles, the earlier generations were unable to be attractively priced. However, in 2009, the government provided full import and excise duty exemption of hybrid and electric vehicles which made them more affordable.

The move was to demonstrate Malaysia’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint as well as to help the carmakers introduce hybrid technology to motorists in the country. It was hoped that some companies would then assemble their hybrid models locally.

Third generation of the Prius and Prius c (below) were sold in Malaysia.

A 4-year period of duty-exemption was given, during which time sales of such vehicles was quite high as their prices were attractive. Besides the Prius, UMWT also imported the smaller Prius c.

Following the withdrawal of the duty-free exemption, the price of the Prius jumped from RM139,900 to RM216,400 while the Prius c which entered the market at RM97,000 rose to around RM153,000. Not surprisingly, sales declined very quickly and imports of the Prius and Prius c ceased. However, Lexus Malaysia continued to offer hybrid variants for its CT, RX and LS models for customers who appreciated the advanced technology.

Four generations of hybrid power and still moving forward with technology


Euro NCAP evaluations now include Highway Assist systems

Euro NCAP, the independent organization which evaluates the safety levels of vehicles sold in Europe, has developed a dedicated test and assessment protocol, as well as a grading system for its Highway Assist tests. These tests are aimed at ensuring the safe adoption of assisted driving technologies and to provide consumers information to make their buying decisions.

Increasingly, vehicle manufacturers have been making use of the sensor-sets fitted to their vehicles to provide more extensive support to the driver. This is a prelude to greater autonomous motoring that will come in future.

Highway Assist

Highway Assist, the general name for a technology designed to make highway driving safer, helps by reducing fatigue. The system can help the driver to maintain a steady cruising speed, and to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Such systems are generally known as Adaptive Cruise Control and can be found on an increasing number of models.

Adaptive Cruise Control can adjust the set cruising speed to maintain a safe gap with a vehicle ahead.

There is also a system to help keep the vehicle within its lane, with sensors monitoring lines on the road for guidance. If the vehicle is found to be departing from the lane, the driver will be alerted and some systems can also exert force to guide the vehicle back into the correct position in the lane.

However, the driver always needs to be responsible and engaged behind the wheel – the assisted system is there to do just that – assist. The systems are not flawless and should not lead or have full control, at least not at this stage in semi-autonomous motoring.

A camera monitors road lines to determine the position of the car in the lane, and the system will alert the driver if the car deviates from the lane.

The test series has so far covered 10 models that offer Highway Assist – the Audi Q8, BMW 3-Series, Ford Kuga, Mercedes GLE, Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008, Renault Clio, Tesla Model 3, Volkswagen Passat and Volvo V60.

Euro NCAP’s new assessment protocols focus on two main areas: Assistance Competence – a balance between the technical competencies of the system (Vehicle Assistance) and the extent to which it keeps the driver alert and engaged (Driver Engagement) – and Safety Back-up, the car’s safety net in critical situations.

A unique grading system – similar to the 5-star safety rating – helps consumers understand the conclusions of the tests and compare assistance performance at the highest level. Each model falls into one of 4 categories: Entry, Moderate, Good and Very Good.

The findings

Three models in the premium segment – the Mercedes-Benz GLE, the BMW 3-Series and Audi Q8 – were graded Very Good, achieving a good balance between offering a high level of driving assistance but keeping the driver engaged and in control of the driving task. They also provide a good crash avoidance back-up system and respond appropriately if the driver becomes incapacitated while the car is in assistance mode.

High volume sellers Renault Clio and Peugeot 2008 were both given an Entry grade. Lacking the sophistication of the more advanced systems tested, they provide a relatively modest level of assistance, ensuring that the driver is not disengaged from the driving task.

Tesla’s pioneering role in self-driving technology is reflected in its top scores for Vehicle Assistance and Safety Back-up. However, its Autopilot system was found to do little to keep the driver engaged. Its distinct steering strategy gives the impression that either the car is driving itself or the driver has full control, and the system is more ‘authoritarian’ than cooperative. Grading-wise, the car is badly let down by its performance in Driver Engagement and ended up ranked ‘Moderate’.

The Volkswagen Passat, Nissan Juke and Volvo V60 were also graded as Moderate. In particular, the Volvo, already on the market for a few years, shows that rapid advancements made in driving assistance technology require more frequent updates to keep up with premium cars. Finally, Ford’s latest Kuga achieved a Good grading, demonstrating that well-balanced, advanced systems are also available on mainstream mid-class vehicles.

Improved driver monitoring necessary

“Assisted driving technologies offer enormous benefits by reducing fatigue and encouraging safe driving. However, manufacturers must ensure that assisted driving technology does not increase the amount of harm incurred by drivers or other road-users compared to conventional driving. The best systems offer a balance between the amount of assistance they provide and the level of driver engagement – and should be supported by an effective safety back-up,” noted Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General.

“The results of this round of tests demonstrate that driving assistance is fast becoming better and more readily available, but until driver monitoring is significantly improved, the driver needs to remain responsible at all times.”

Euro NCAP assessments become tougher in 2020 with new protocols


All-New Honda WR-V Available For Bookings Nationwide!

The highly anticipated small SUV, the all-new Winsome Runabout Vehicle (WR-V), is now available for booking at all 101 Honda Malaysia dealerships nationwide.

It is set out to compete with the Perodua Ativa. According to the company’s website, the small SUV will be powered by a 1.5-litre DOHC naturally-aspirated engine shared with the City and City Hatchback, producing 121 PS/145 Nm and mated to a CVT automatic gearbox.

The WRV will be offered in an RS edition with a freshly designed RS logo, a distinctive front grille, and 17″ dual-tone alloy wheels. Its sleek and sporty appearance is complemented by coupé-shaped rear door handles, lending it an edgy appeal.

A power retractable door mirror, auto LED headlights and LED daytime running lights (DRL), as well as LED front fog lights and LED sequential turn signals, are also standard on the all-new WR-V.

Honda Malaysia prioritises safety, which is why the All-New WR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive and advanced safety system that includes eight safety functions, including:

Lead Car Departure Notification
Adaptive Cruise Control
Collision Mitigation Braking System
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Keep Assist System
Road Departure Mitigation
Lane Departure Warning
Auto High Beam

Furthermore, Honda LaneWatch and Honda Connect give customers more confidence, convenience, and access to a variety of services via their mobile devices.

In the run-up to the launch, Honda Malaysia will host exclusive previews at select dealerships, allowing customers to be among the first in Malaysia to get a close look at the all-new WR-V.

We have already driven the new Honda WR-V, click

here
 to read our review and below is the video of our review.