Mazda to use SKYACTIV-D engine with next-generation biofuel in endurance racing

For those following auto industry trends, it would appear that the future has to be electrified; first, hybrids with a combustion engine and electric motor, and then just an electric motor alone. It’s considered the only way to address climate change which is blamed partly on exhaust emissions of motor vehicles. Increasingly stringent regulations have made it more and more challenging for manufacturers to develop combustion engines to meet tougher standards and it seems that going electric is the only solution.

Perhaps it is – in the longer term – but for now, the technology is still expensive and hybrid powertrains are just beginning to have cost levels that can reach a much larger number of consumers than fully electric vehicles or battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Furthermore, in many countries, the infrastructure to support BEVs is still not sufficiently developed so it will be inconvenient and impractical owning such vehicles that need regular recharging. In Malaysia, for example, there are around 400 recharging stations at the moment – versus around 3,700 stations selling petrol and diesel.

For these reasons, some manufacturers are looking at other approaches which can give consumers choices. Five Japanese manufacturers – Kawasaki, Mazda, Subaru, Toyota, and Yamaha – are collaborating to find ways to continue using internal combustion engines in a way that can meet stringent regulations and still aim for carbon neutrality.

They are not against full electrification and are developing BEVs too (
Toyota will spend 4 trillion yen
 during this decade on BEV development), but they also think of customers in less developed countries where BEVs will be too expensive. Such people still need transport, so they will be provided vehicles with powertrains that are sufficiently ‘green’.

Realistic alternative approach

This alternative approach is realistic and given the combined technical resources of the 5 companies, new solutions will be found. Back in the early 1970s, when tough exhaust emissions regulations were introduced in America and forced manufacturers to fit catalytic converters, Honda was able to develop its
CVCC engine
 which could run on low-octane fuel and meet the regulations without having a catalytic converter.

Toyota and Yamaha
 have been jointly working on engines that can run on hydrogen, while Mazda is working on engines that use next-generation bio-diesel. The carmaker previously developed the SKYACTIV-D turbodiesel which was a very efficient engine, and this engine is now being modified to use a 100% bio-derived next-generation fuel called Susteo developed by Japanese firm Euglena Co. Ltd.

Testing in endurance racing

The prototype engine is installed in the Mazda2 Bio concept car and part of its development will include being raced in Japan’s leading domestic endurance racing series, the Super Taikyu Series. This series, which consists of 7 rounds, starts next month at Suzuka and there will be races of 5 or 6 hours as well as a 24-hour event.

Mazda already demonstrated the potential of the 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D powered car with Euglena’s 100% bio-based fuel made from used cooking oil and microalgae fats when the Mazda2 competed in last November’s Super Taikyu Race.

Participating in the ST-Q class with the Mazda2 Bio concept, Mazda will take part in the full series with a new silver livery. From the third round, it will also compete with a SKYACTIV-G petrol-powered MX-5 in the ST-5 production class, a class that has seen privateer teams have huge success with MX-5s over the last few years.

SKYACTIV-G engine in the MX-5.

Multi-solution approach

Mazda is following a comprehensive strategy called the multi-solution approach, which takes into account all available solutions to reach climate neutrality and to suit individual mobility needs as well as regional conditions. It will continue to make investments in developing conventional hybrids, diesel engine models, BEV models and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models while, at the same time, promoting initiatives in renewable fuels such as 100% bio-based fuels.

Next-generation biodiesel fuels, which are made from sustainable raw materials such as microalgae fats and used cooking oil, do not compete with food crops, which has been an issue with existing biodiesel fuels. As these fuels can also be used as alternatives to diesel in existing vehicles and equipment without any modification, no additional fuel supply infrastructure is required. Therefore, biodiesel can be expected to play a prominent role as an excellent liquid fuel source in promoting carbon neutrality.

High-performance Lexus V8 modified to run on hydrogen in Toyota-Yamaha project


New fully-electric Rolls-Royce will be called ‘Spectre’, to be launched in late 2023

It seems that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars either cannot contain its own excitement about its new fully electric car or pressure from its customers has persuaded it to reveal more about the new model. Until now, the company has said that the car will be launched during the decade, which can mean up till 2030. However, today CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos has announced that the finished product will have its global debut as early as the fourth quarter of 2023.

Another ‘otherworldly’ model name

The car’s name has also been revealed: Spectre, which perfectly fits with the other ‘otherworldly’ model names like Ghost, Silver Spirit, Wraith and Phantom. “Spectre is a name given to otherworldly beings synonymous with great power and apparition; creatures of an alternative realm that make their presence felt through fleeting manifestation. A spectre forces the world to pause. It dominates the space it occupies. Then, as quickly as it appears, it dissipates, leaving a wake of exhilaration, energy, and intrigue,” explained Muller-Otvos.

“This name perfectly matches the extraordinary Rolls-Royce that we are announcing today – a motorcar that makes its presence felt before disappearing into a world inaccessible to all but the very few. As a quintessentially British brand, we have selected the British spelling; however, the meaning is universal,” he added.

Road-testing to commence soon

Understandably, technical details are sparse at this time and the first two pictures of the camouflaged car do not reveal much although the side view does show a sleek form. Certainly, it will be nothing like the VISION NEXT 100 (103EX) concept shown earlier. The new car will begin testing shortly, which could explain why the company is making the announcement today. “This is not a prototype. It’s the real thing, it will be tested in plain sight,” he said. “We have conceived the most demanding testing programme in Rolls-Royce’s history. We will cover 2.5 million kilometres – a simulation of more than 400 years of use for a Rolls-Royce, on average – and we will travel to all four corners of the world to push this new motorcar to the limit.”

“You will see these test cars on roads, around the world. Look out for them – they will be in plain sight. They will be tested in all conditions and over all terrains on their multi-million-mile journey – that will literally accelerate Rolls-Royce into the future,” he added. Of course, the cars are likely to be heavily camouflaged.

Building up expertise in electric cars

Besides the fact that the founders of the company – Charles Rolls and Henry Royce – were
familiar and even experienced electric cars
 over 100 years ago, the company has also been building up its expertise in electric powertrains for some time. “At Rolls-Royce, we have been experimenting with an electric powertrain for some time. In 2011, we revealed 102EX, a fully operational all-electric Phantom. We followed this in 2016 with our fully electric 103EX, which represented our vision for the marque several decades into the future,” said Muller-Otvos.

Layout of the electric powertrain in the 102EX.

VISION NEXT 100 (103EX)

“We embark on this bold new future with a huge advantage. Electric drive is uniquely and perfectly suited to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, more so than any other automotive brand. It is silent, refined and creates torque almost instantly, going on to generate tremendous power.  This is what we at Rolls-Royce call ‘waftability’,” he added.

Exclusive spaceframe architecture

“In 2016, we debuted Phantom and, with it, the marque’s proprietary aluminium architecture: a scalable and flexible spaceframe that would underpin all forthcoming Rolls-Royce motorcars. This unique technology – developed for Rolls-Royce by Rolls-Royce and reserved for the marque’s exclusive use – was created to form the foundation of not just different internal combustion engine models, as it now does with Cullinan and Ghost, but models with completely different powertrains.”

Part of the proprietary aluminium architecture with a scalable and flexible spaceframe to be used for the Spectre.

“To this end, our forthcoming electric car benefits from the Rolls-Royce architecture and therefore the extraordinary experience of a Rolls-Royce on the road. Free of any group platform sharing strategy, we were able to integrate our plans for an electric powertrain into the architecture’s initial design and ensure that this extraordinary new product meets the extremely high expectations of our clients,” he explained.

“With this new product, we set out our credentials for the full electrification of our entire product portfolio by 2030. By then, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will no longer be in the business of producing or selling any internal combustion engine products,” he declared.

Rolls-Royce founders experienced electrified vehicles even in the early 20th century


Nico Rosberg’s RXR team overall winner in first season of Extreme E off-road series for electric SUVs

Nico Rosberg, Formula 1 World Champion in 2016, can add another title to his name – the first champion of the Extreme E series. His team (but he did not drive) – Rosberg X Racing (RXR) – claimed the title after finishing fourth in the season-ending Jurassic X Prix in the UK recently. Despite finishing level on 155 points with Jurassic X Prix winners X44, RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson and Molly Taylor took the championship due to having more X Prix victories, with 3 wins from 5 events.

Sebastien Loeb and Cristina Gutierrez finally took their first Extreme E win at their fifth attempt, as well as 5 extra points for being fastest through the Continental Traction Challenge at the wet and muddy course.

With 5 cars vying for position to get the best traction and grip off the line in the final, the start was crucial. It was the championship contenders who got the best getaway, with X44’s Gutierrez flying into the lead ahead of RXR’s Taylor, and then JBXE’s Mikaela Ahlin-Kottulinsky, Andretti United Extreme E’s Catie Munnings and ACCIONA | Sainz XE Team’s Laia Sanz fighting for positions behind.

As Gutierrez began to pull away from the chasing pack, the tension began to grow in the RXR team as Taylor fell into the clutches of those behind, losing places to Ahlin-Kottulinsky and Munnings to slip back to fourth, just ahead of Sanz in fifth place. This was dangerous territory for RXR, who needed to finish fourth or higher to claim the title.

The battle for third place in the standings was similarly competitive – with just a point separating JBXE and Andretti United Extreme E ahead of the Jurassic X Prix. Their closely fought contest continued as Munnings closed in on Ahlin-Kottulinsky, but there was drama as they both attempted to enter the Driver Switch Zone, with contact between the pair sending Munnings into a spin.

Fortunately, she was able to get going again and retain third place, such was the pace advantage the leading trio had over RXR and ACCIONA | Sainz XE Team. The order was maintained after the driver switch, with Loeb preserving X44’s lead over JBXE’s Kevin Hansen in second and Andretti United Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen in third.

The stage was set for Kristoffersson and Carlos Sainz Snr. to fight it out for the title-deciding fourth place finish, but it was a battle which fizzled out after problems in the Driver Switch Zone meant ACCIONA | Sainz XE Team lost ground. This gave RXR breathing space in their bid to score the crucial points needed to seal the championship.

“We are really happy with the first Extreme E season. It has not been easy in the middle of a pandemic, but we have delivered five X Prix events, and the Finale in Dorset, UK produced some spectacular racing. Since our first event in Saudi Arabia, we have had a lot of eventful and incredible moments ending in a brilliant title decider today,” said Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E. “We are now looking forward to what we hope will be a fantastic Season 2.”

Although having same number of points as the X44 team, RXR is the overall winner due to having more X Prix victories, with 3 wins from 5 events.

Drones provide a more exciting perspective of motorsports events like Extreme E


BIKES: Aprilia Owners Take Note! A New 3S Centre Has Opened For You @ The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya!

Didi Resources Sdn. Bhd
. being the newly appointed sole-distributor for
Aprilia
 in Malaysia opened its doors to a brand-new showroom and service centre spanning
2,041 sq ft
 to bring a new home to Aprilia owners at the renowned motorcycle hub,
The Gasket Alley
 in Petaling Jaya. The grand opening was also witnessed by
Max Biaggi
 a former Grand Prix motorcycle road racing World Champion and winner of the 2010 and 2012 World Superbike Championship (below, 4th from right).

“We are honoured to be given the trust and responsibility to manage Aprilia, a renowned brand under the
Piaggio Group of Companies, the following trust comes one year after we re-introduce Moto Guzzi in Malaysia. Our vision is to create a new ownership experience for existing and new customers where owning a
motorcycle goes beyond just the product…

… we will continue to invest in after sales improvement and value added
services to increase the ownership experience like dedicated track days, racing support, rides and
gathering that is niche and unique to each Aprilia Owners”
, said
Chairman of Didi Resources Sdn Bhd, Mr
Rewi Hamid Bugo
(above).

“The new showroom is aligned with our global initiative to combine some of our brands under one roof and
with this new centre, our customers and owners can visit us to engage in both Aprilia and Moto Guzzi products
and services and be immersed in an exclusive two wheel environment”
, said
Pierre Sainton, Area Sales
Manager, PIAGGIO ASIA PACIFIC PTE.
 LTD (above).

The following opening also witnessed the signing of commitment by 3 dealers to invest in the brand in stages in 2019.

They consist of Welly World Cycle (Sungai Buloh), Sheng Fatt Superbike (Penang) and Soon Hin Co. (Kuantan) to further strengthen the network infrastructure in Malaysia. In conjunction with the Malaysian MotoGP race which happened from the 2nd until 4th November 2018 at the Sepang International Circuit, several exciting programs had been organized, including a Meet and Greet session with Max Biaggi, a dinner party with Aleix Espargaró and Scott Redding, Aprilia community ride to Sepang MotoGP and Aprilia Tribune at the grandstand to support the team.


Volvo Cars to stop using leather in all its future electric vehicles (w/VIDEO)

From its early days, Volvo has been well known for being a leader in automobile safety, which was its strongest selling point. Then the company (not surprisingly with its Swedish roots) started to be determined about its products being environmentally-friendly. Whatever regulations there were, the carmaker aimed to meet them and even be better than what was required.

Now that the company is moving rapidly towards a fully electrified range of vehicles, the matter of environmental-friendliness is readily addressed as electric vehicles do not have any toxic emissions. As usual, Volvo is also taking the lead in the field with innovative approaches to designing and making the new generation of electric vehicles.

Leather has long been associated with luxury in cars (above) but Volvo Cars will not have leather anymore and use new sustainable or recycled materials that can still maintain the same premium feel in its electric models of the future (below).

Now it is turning its attention to animal welfare and is taking an ethical stand where all new fully electric Volvo models will be completely leather-free, starting with the
new C40 Recharge
. As part of its ambitions to go completely leather-free, Volvo Cars is working actively to find high-quality and sustainable sources for many materials currently used in the wider car industry.

By 2025, the company is aiming for 25% of the material in new Volvo cars to consist of recycled and bio-based content, as it looks to become a fully circular business by 2040. As part of its climate action plans, it also aims for all of its immediate suppliers, including material suppliers, to use 100% renewable energy by 2025.

https://www.piston.my/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Volvo-1.mp4

The company’s move towards leather-free interiors is also driven by a concern about the negative environmental impacts of cattle farming, including deforestation. Livestock is estimated to be responsible for around 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions from human activity, with the majority coming from cattle farming.

Instead of leather interior options, Volvo Cars will offer customers alternatives such as high-quality sustainable materials made from bio-based and recycled sources. For example, Nordico, a new interior material created by Volvo Cars will consist of textiles made from recycled material such as PET bottles, bio-attributed material from sustainable forests in Sweden and Finland, and corks recycled from the wine industry. This material will make its debut in the next generation of Volvo models, setting a new standard for premium interior design.

Volvo Cars’ new leather-free material for its next generation cars consists of textiles made from recycled material such as PET bottles, bio-attributed material from sustainable forests in Sweden and Finland, and corks recycled from the wine industry.

Volvo Cars will also continue to offer wool blend options and ensure that suppliers are certified to source responsibly, as the company looks to ensure full traceability and animal welfare in its wool supply chain.

“Being a progressive car maker means we need to address all areas of sustainability, not just CO
2
 emissions,” said Stuart Templar, Director of Global Sustainability at Volvo Cars. “Responsible sourcing is an important part of that work, including respect for animal welfare. Going leather-free inside our pure electric cars is a good next step towards addressing this issue.”

Volvo Cars is also looking to reduce the use of residual products from livestock production commonly used within or in the production of plastics, rubber, lubricants and adhesives, either as part of the material or as a process chemical in the material’s production or treatment. The company takes this step because it believes that while going leather-free is a step in the right direction, doing so alone does not make a car interior vegan.

Volvo C40 Recharge

By aiming to actively replace these materials as much as possible, Volvo Cars takes a strong and ethical position to do what it can to help stop animal harm, by contributing to a reduced demand for these materials containing animal products.

“Finding products and materials that support animal welfare will be challenging, but that is no reason to avoid this important issue,” said Mr. Templar. “This is a journey worth taking. Having a truly progressive and sustainable mindset means we need to ask ourselves difficult questions and actively try and find answers.”

Concept Recharge – a manifesto for the next generation of all-electric Volvos


Lucky Ford Customer Drives Away a Sporty Fiesta in SDAC’s 10th Anniversary Extravaganza

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC)
, the sole distributor of
Ford
 in Malaysia concluded its 10
th
 Anniversary Extravaganza on a high note as one lucky customer drove away a brand new Ford Fiesta 1.5L Sport.
Logeshwaran Balasubramaniam
 (above, right) from Pahang, a loyal Ford owner expressing his joy at winning the Ford Fiesta said,
“I’d like to thank Sime Darby Auto Connexion and Ford for this reward. My family and I never expected to win a prize, let alone a brand new Ford Fiesta 1.5L Sport. This has truly made our year extra special!”

“We are delighted to celebrate a decade of continued success. Our momentum would not have been possible without the support from our customers. Campaigns like the 10
th
 Anniversary Extravaganza is one of the many ways we show our appreciation towards their on-going trust and loyalty,”
 said
Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz
, (above)
Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

He continued by saying,
“Our customers are our best brand ambassadors. We believe in making our customers’ experience more enjoyable, be it in the form of products, services, promotions and ensuring that every visit to our showroom is a delightful one.”
 The
SDAC 10
th
 Anniversary Extravaganza
 ran from
 1 April 2018 to 30 June 2018
, offering incredible deals on selected Ford models. During the campaign, customers who purchased any Ford Ranger model stood a chance to walk away with a Fiesta as the grand prize.

For more information on Ford, visit SDAC’s multilingual website (
www.sdacford.com.my
), which also features a chatbot now available in three languages – English, Bahasa Malaysia and Simplified Chinese – to provide a better customer engagement experience.


2020 Toyota Vellfire and Alphard on sale soon and you can book one now

The upgraded 2020 Toyota Alphard and Toyota Vellfire models will be in Toyota showrooms in Malaysia soon and pre-launch orders are now being accepted. UMW Toyota Motor, the importer and distributor of the vehicles from Japan, is pricing the latest premium MPV models from RM383,000 for the Vellfire (one variant) and RM465,000 for the Alphard (two variants).

The latest Alphard and Vellfire have been upgraded with advanced systems being added in two areas – Safety and Connectivity. This is in line with UMWT’s 360-T New Brand Experience Strategy that emphasizes Safe-T and Connectivi-T.

The new or enhanced systems are Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), Parking Support Brake System, 9-inch AVX Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-Ready Connectivity, Front & Rear Digital Video Recorder, Vehicle Telematics System (VTS), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

TSS is a suite of advanced systems that provide driver assistance to avoid accidents or reduce their severity if they occur. These include Pre-collision System, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control – All Speed. The latter is more advanced than normal cruise control systems as it can vary the cruising speed when necessary for safety.

With Parking Support Brake System added in the 2020 models, drivers have the support of an intelligent parking system to detect objects in the surrounding areas of the vehicle during the parking process. Should any object be detected, the brakes will be automatically applied and the engine power cut back so that collisions can be avoided. Even if a collision does occur, the early action of the system can reduce damage.

Alphard dashboard

Interior of Vellfire

Besides the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) that enables the driver to view all round the vehicle, the front and rear DVRs constantly record the views ahead and behind. Apart from recording the scenery on a holiday journey, in the event of an incident and dispute, the recordings would be useful evidence for the vehicle owner.

The Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) for the Vellfire and Alphard is a connectivity feature that uses GPS/GSM to track the location of the car at all times. This can aid recovery by the police if the vehicle is stolen. VTS can also monitor and record vehicle speeds and other operating conditions that the vehicle has been subjected to, with data sent by email to a designated user.

No design changes are mentioned to the two models for the new model year but there are 4 exterior colours to choose from – Luxury White Pearl CS GF  (only for Alphard 3.5 Executive Lounge and Alphard 3.5L); Burning Black CS GF (only for Vellfire 2.5L); and White Pearl C, Graphite Metallic and Black (available for both Alphard and Vellfire).

Vellfire headlights

The Alphard has a 3.5-litre V6 engine while the Vellfire uses a 2.5-litre engine.

As with all other models imported by UMWT, owners of the Vellfire and Alphard will enjoy a full factory warranty, with availability of genuine replacement parts when required. Aftersales support is also assured with personnel trained to service the models using the necessary special tools and equipment.

Customers can locate the nearest showroom by visiting
toyota.com.my
 or calling the Toyota freephone line
 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682)
.

Click here for other news and articles about Toyota at PISTON.MY
.


Volkswagen Insurance Plan from VPCM to enhance ownership experience

You must have insurance coverage for your motor vehicle if you want to use it on the road. In the past, insurance coverage was just that; you paid the premium annually and if you had a claim for accident damage or the vehicle was stolen, the insurance company paid the appropriate compensation.

Today, things are different and to enhance the ownership experience, the car companies work with their partner panel insurers to give customers more than just insurance coverage. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is among the companies which offers insurance coverage with extra benefits. The insurance programme, launched recently, is known as the Volkswagen Insurance Plan or ‘VIP’.

When accident repairs are necessary, VIP policyholders are assured that the work will be done by authorised dealers with equipment and processes approved by Volkswagen. Needless to say, only genuine parts will be used.

As a privileged VIP policyholder, benefits include prioritised claim approval, roadside assistance with 24-hour emergency towing and assurance that repair work is conducted at authorised Volkswagen body and paint centres, in accordance to Volkswagen repair standards with only genuine parts used.

Additionally, there are no excess fees, no betterment cost and an agreed value of up to 10 years. This is applicable to all Volkswagen models, regardless of vehicle age.

Available through all authorised VW dealerships

VIP can be purchased at any Volkswagen authorized dealerships in Malaysia when registering a new vehicle or during roadtax renewal. Allianz General Insurance Berhad and Etiqa General Takaful Berhad are partner panel insurers, with Allianz offering conventional insurance, and Etiqa offering both conventional and takaful insurance.

“With VIP, all Volkswagen owners regardless of model, can enjoy quality services and roadside assistance at the best value under a comprehensive plan catered exclusively just for them,” Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, explaining that that VIP has been conceptualised under the
Volkswagen Cares
 philosophy.

“Our owners are at the core of everything we do and providing this added service to them at our dealerships also ensures that the entire process is streamlined and more convenient, making our Volkswagen dealerships a one-stop centre for customer convenience and peace of mind,” he said.

For more information on Volkswagen products and services in Malaysia, visit
www.volkswagen.com.my
 or any authorised dealership.

Click here for other news and articles about Volkswagen in PISTON.MY


Audi And Sauber Team Up To Enter Formula 1 in 2026

Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG (right), and Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development of AUDI AG

As reported in August, Audi will participate in the Formula 1 World Championship from 2026, the first time that the German carmaker is doing so. Audi will have Sauber as its strategic partner and plans to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group. The partnership will see the traditional Swiss racing team competing as an official factory team, using the power unit developed by Audi.

Development of the power unit, which consists of an electric motor, battery, control systems and a combustion engine, has already begun at the facility of the newly formed Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Germany. More than 120 employees are already working on the project.

While the power unit will be created at Audi’s Motorsport Competence Centre, Sauber will develop and manufacture the racing car at its site in Switzerland. It will also be responsible for planning and executing the race operations.

“Sauber is a first-class partner for the use of the Audi Power Unit,” said Adam Baker, Managing Director of Audi Formula Racing. “We are looking forward to working with an experienced team that has helped shape many eras of Formula 1 history. Together, we want to write the next chapter starting in 2026.”

The timetable up to the first race in the 2026 season is ambitious. The expansion of the facility in terms of personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure should be largely in place in 2023. The first tests with the power unit developed for the 2026 regulations in a Formula 1 test car are planned for 2025. Of course, working under such pressure is not new to Audi as it also had a short time for the  development of its
 all-electric rallycar for the Dakar Rally
.

Formula 1 is taking a big step towards sustainability with the new regulations that will come into effect from 2026. This was an important prerequisite for Audi to decide to enter the championship. The power units will be more efficient than they are today, as the proportion of electric power will increase significantly.

The electric drivetrain will then have nearly as much power as the internal combustion engine, which comes to 400 kW (544 bhp). The highly efficient 1.6-litre turbocharged engines will be powered by sustainable synthetic fuel that is CO
2
-neutral (according to EU standards). Formula 1 has also set itself the goal of being CO
2
-neutral as a racing series by 2030.

Sauber was founded in 1970 by Peter Sauber and has been involved in various motorsports, including F1. Malaysians would also be familiar with the name as Sauber formed a joint venture with Petronas in 1996 to supply engines for the Sauber F1 team. Sauber Petronas Engineering, situated in Switzerland, was also involved in high performance engine development (Petronas E01) with Proton at one stage as well as motorcycle engines (PETRONAS GP1, Malaysia’s first prototype motorcycle racing engine).

The PETRONAS E01e 4-cylinder engine that was developed in the late 1990s by Sauber Petronas Engineering. It had a 2-litre displacement and could produce around 204 ps/203 Nm. The engine was intended for Proton’s use but that never happened as the carmaker preferred to use its own CAMPRO engine.

“We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board for Technical Development at Audi AG. “We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.”

Audi To Race In Formula 1 From 2026


Nicky Hayden succumbs to injuries from bicycle accident

It has been announced that Red Bull Honda’s WSBK rider, Nicky Hayden has past away. The 35-year-old American succumbed to injuries suffered after an accident while riding his bicycle in Italy last Wednesday.

Hayden was admitted at Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena, Italy after the incident. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on 22nd May 2017, his fiancee Jackie, mother Rose and brother Tommy were at his side at the time.

Nicky Hayden was a beloved character in bike racing due to his tenacious fighting spirit, professionalism and all around good nature. Since an early age, he dreamed of being a pro rider and in 2006 achieved that dream by being crowned MotoGP World Champion with Honda.

Nicknamed the Kentucky Kid, he was a true champion and a fan favourite due to his kind nature, relaxed demeanor and his signature wide smile. The out-pour of prays and support from fellow racers and his legions of fans are a testament to his character and the impact he had on the racing world.

Speaking of this, Tommy Hayden, Nicky’s brother said, “On behalf of the whole Hayden family and Nicky’s fiancée Jackie I would like to thank everyone for their messages of support – it has been a great comfort to us all knowing that Nicky has touched so many people’s lives in such a positive way. Although this is obviously a sad time, we would like everyone to remember Nicky at his happiest – riding a motorcycle. Apart from these ‘public’ memories, we will also have many great and happy memories of Nicky at home in Kentucky, in the heart of the family. We will all miss him terribly.”

Today, the racing world has lost one of its best talents, rest in peace Nicky Hayden.


Morocco To Have Its Own Auto Brand And Car Soon

Morocco, on the northwest corner of the African continent, might not seem to have a major involvement in the automotive industry. Although the country of 37.3 million people began assembling motor vehicles in 1959 with a state-owned company, its auto industry only began to really develop after the company was privatized in 1990. By the early 2000s, the government decided to develop its auto industry into a manufacturing hub for Europe and provided a suitable environment to attract major carmakers.

According to the government, the country now has 10,000 automotive design engineers for German, British, French and North American brands, and this number is expected to reach 50,000 in the coming 3 years.

Renault factory in Morocco has been in operation for 10 years and will begin making electric vehicles this year.

Although its domestic sales have been around 155,000 units (passenger cars) annually, its motor vehicle exports to Europe have surpassed South Africa. Morocco is now the largest exporter of passenger vehicles to Europe, sending volumes that exceed those from Japan, Korea, the USA and China. In fact, even though demand for cars in Europe had fallen almost 30% in 2022, Morocco’s exports into the market increased by 50%.

Budget-friendly car
While domestic sales are still limited, the government wants to boost this area and will soon launch a new model said to be entirely developed in Morocco. It will be sold under the brand name of ‘Neo’ and have a price of 170,000 dirhams (around US$16,000/RM70,000). This is said to be a ‘budget-friendly’ price and for comparison, a Nissan Sentra is 235,000 dirhams (US$22,500).

The actual design of the Moroccan car has not been revealed, but at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, a French-Moroccan company displayed this concept Hydrogen Utility Vehicle (HUV) which was styled by Pininfarina. Could it be the basis for the Moroccan car?

Full details of the car have not been released although it is said to have passed engineering tests. It is not clear if it will have a conventional powertrain or be electrified as some reports suggest it will be an EV. With numerous parts suppliers already having factories in Morocco to support the various carmakers, the new car should be able to source almost 100% of its parts from within the country.
The car is planned only for domestic sale although exports have not been ruled out by the country’s Trade & Industry minister who said that the government would give support for ‘an international dimension’ to the business.

Moving towards EV production
Well aware of the European ban on vehicles with combustion engines from 2035, Morocco is already preparing for the change. It is drawing suppliers of components for EVs to set up factories and carmakers like Renault, Peugeot and BYD will make their EV models there. The production volumes of EVs are targeted to reach 100,000 units a year by 2025.


F1: Results & Highlights of the 2020 Rolex F1 Austrian Grand Prix

Updated results and points after adjustment for penalties.

Prior to the start, most drivers ‘took a knee’ (bending down on one knee) to show support for anti-racism and discrimination. The F1 community will this year have a campaign #WeRaceAsOne to spread the message.

Athough the Stewards had earlier taken no action against Lewis Hamilton for not slowing down for yellow flags, a review (requested by Red Bull Racing) saw them reverse their decision – just 85 minutes before the race started –  and he was demoted from second position on the starting grid to fifth.

Hamilton’s demotion to fifth slot meant that Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen got alongside Valtteri Bottas on the front row. However, even before he could complete the first lap, his car lost power and ended his chance to win at the event again.

Sebastian Vettel came in contact with Carlos Sainz’ car on lap 30 and sustained damage which dropped his way down the field.

Sensor problems and then gearbox issues appeared in both Mercedes-AMG cars, leading the engineers to urge the drivers to preserve the cars.

As Kimi Raikkonen sprinted forward after a restart on lap 55, wheel came off his Alfa Romeo but fortunately, it rolled towards the pitlane and he managed to get his car off the track. But it brought out the Safety Car, slowing the race again, as track personnel rushed to remove the racing car.

10 laps before the end, Alexander Albon came in contact with Hamilton, and the Thai-British Red Bull Racing lost his strong position to win the race. If the Stewards do not penalise Hamilton, Red Bull Racing will most likely protest against the British driver again.

Sergio Perez was running in fifth but perhaps got anxious and went to fast in the pits, so he got a penalty which will affect his final position.

2 laps from the end, Albon’s car shut down and Daniil Kvyat’s car had a puncture.

9 cars didn’t cross the finish line, almost half the field.

Hamilton crossed the finish line 5.7 seconds behind Bottas, the winner (above). However, he gets a penalty which drops him from second to fourth place. His place was taken by Charles Leclerc, which at least gave Ferrari something to take home from the first race of the season.

It must have been strange to be racing around with no spectators in the stands, unlike last year (left).

With the next race also at the same track next weekend, the teams would have brought double the number of tyres to the Red Bull Ring. They also don’t have to pack up after today’s race to move on to the next venue.

Updated points and positions.

Next race

 2020 Pirelli F1 Styrian Grand Prix

 July 12, Red Bull Ring, Austria


Shell To Close 35 Petrol Stations Early Next Year

Hajiji Noor, the chief minister of Sabah, will meet with Shell Malaysia to go over plans to close 35 of the company’s petrol outlets in the state and Labuan early next year.

Hajiji stated that he was aware of the circumstance following Shell Timur Sdn Bhd’s prior confirmation that it will be closing a number of its stations in East Malaysia in order to maintain its performance, whose company manages Shell’s retail operations in Sabah and Labuan.

He will be meeting with Shell Malaysia chairman Siti Hurrairah Sulaiman to find out more about the situation and the fate of the affected retailers in Sabah and Labuan.

It is believed that the Sabah government, through the wholly-owned Yayasan Sabah Group, owns a 15% equity holding in Shell Timur.

News reports state that the decision was made mostly as a result of losses incurred over a number of years as a result of the automatic price mechanism (APM), which has not been revised since 1998.

According to reports, when the shutdown occurs the next year, more than 500 workers will lose their jobs.

Ten stations in Tawau, two in Semporna, six in Lahad Datu, twelve in Sandakan, two in Labuan, and one each in Likas, Telipok, and Kuala Penyu are reportedly affected by the closure.


VIDEOS: Sunday @ KLIMS 2018! What A Crowd – Visitors To KL International Motorshow Are Back With A Vengeance [+Videos]

One of the things that was playing at the back of our minds in regards to KLIMS 2018, was how it was going to be insofar as crowd attendance was concerned. And with that in mind, we headed back to MITEC, the new venue of the
KL International Motorshow
, on Sunday 25th, technically the first weekend of the show. This is what it looked like! Wait for the surprise at the end…

Another big surprise was the appearance of the
Proton R3 Racing Team
 (below), who’d just won the
S1K
, or
Sepang 1000km Race
 the day before, and we managed to catch their full interview and meet-the-fans session at the Proton pavilion…

Of course as expected the crowd at the abovementioned Proton pavilion was massive, packed with those who came to see the new
X70 SUV
, which will be officially launched on
12th December
 (probably at KL Convention Centre) during which Proton will FINALLY reveal its price…

The 2-wheel section of KLIMS was participated by Kawasaki Malaysia, Benelli and Honda, who showcased the awesome new GoldWing Tourer, remarkable…

It was also heartening to see that Peugeot was getting quite a lot of visitors, many were enthralled by the new
Peugeot 308 GTi
…

Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, there is no official Supercar representation at KLIMS 2018, however, thanks to the ‘peripheral’ pavilions, there was still some eye-candy to ogle… we’re referring to the cars of course…

We’ll be visiting the show again before it ends on 2nd December 2018, so stay tuned for our wrap-up coverage!


Nissan Max-Out Convertible EV Concept Becomes A Reality

With digital renderings these days, it is possible to present a new vehicle design so realistically that it seems like an actual model. However, it is still 2-dimensional and while there can be many angles (and the image can even be rotated and zoomed in and out), there’s nothing like a physical model in 3-dimensional form.

In 2021, at the
Nissan Ambition 2030
 presentation, Nissan showed three concept cars – only in virtual form – as a preview of its future range of fully electric models. Among them was a concept called the Max-Out which was a topless low-slung 2-seater. As a convertible, it suggested a sporty and fun experience, perhaps assuring people that even with electric power, cars will still be fun to drive.

Of the three concept models, Nissan decided to turn the Max-Out into reality and has built one unit. The model is part of the Nissan Futures event in Tokyo which showcases how Nissan is shaping the future of sustainable mobility and innovative design.

The physical model is mostly identical to the rendering of 2021 (shown above) and does not seem to have been ‘enhanced’ by the designers. It is described as having been created on the fundamental concept of being one with the car.

As this is just a design study, Nissan does not have to give attention to the powertrain and technical aspects. Perhaps it could use the same sort of powertrain as the Ariya with the advanced
e-4ORCE
 electric-drive 4-wheel-control system. It is also likely to have the ASSB (all solid-state battery) technology which offers higher energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries of today with quicker charging times.

The wheels, with a round 3D pattern, are unique with full coverage of the centre area, certainly good for aerodynamics. The bodywork also looks tuned for aerodynamic efficiency, with a large opening on the bonnet that recalls design features of Nissan concept cars of the early 1980s.

Mimicking the front end, the rear end of the 2-seater terminates cleanly with illumination all around the edges of the vertical panel that has the NISSAN brand name in the middle.

The dashboard incorporates a full-width digital panel in a minimalist form. The seats appear to float on top of a floor with a geometric pattern that creates an optical illusion (might cause headaches for some people!). A yoke-style steering wheel is provided and might be retractable when the Max-Out is in autonomous mode (which would be most likely in future).

Nissan makes no mention of putting the Max-Out into production in future but like many concept cars it has shown, some of the features and design elements may well be used in future models.

One year later, the Nissan JUKE Rally Tribute concept becomes a reality

Click here
 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Upcoming high-performance Porsche Cayenne sets record at Nurburgring Nordschleife

There was a time when a SUV was not associated with high speed and high performance. It was a utility vehicle (that’s what the ‘U’ in SUV stands for) and it was intended more for slower off-road motoring than speeding around a racetrack. Then the Germans changed things – carmakers like Porsche and BMW wanted to offer SUVs as their customers wanted them but the performance DNA was too embedded. They could not bring themselves to offer a vehicle with their badge on it that did not have high performance.

BMW didn’t even want to use the term ‘SUV’ and has instead insisted on using SAV – for Sports
Activity
 Vehicle – starting with its X5 in 1999. With its first SUV, the Cayenne, Porsche tried to play down the SUV character in initial communications, introducing the new model as ‘not another new SUV, but another new
Porsche
’. The company wanted to emphasise that even though it looked like a SUV, it was no less a sportscar like all other Porsches.

High-performance part of DNA

When the first Cayenne was launched, Porsche made sure to take it ‘for a drive’ around the famed (or infamous) Nurburgring Nordschleife. In that first run of a Porsche SUV, the Cayenne Turbo S achieved a lap time of less than 8 minutes. Over the years, Porsche has spent much time at the track nicknamed ‘Green Hell’ and as performance improved, times got quicker.

Recently, the new performance model of the Cayenne (to be launched soon) covered the full lap distance of 20.832 kilometres at Nurburgring in 7:38.925 minutes. The time was registered in the official rankings of Nurburgring GmbH, certified by a notary public and now stands as a new record in the ‘SUV, off-road vehicle, van, pick-up’ category.

“Over the first few metres of the Nordschleife in this Cayenne, you’re tempted to turn around to make sure that you’re really sitting in a spacious SUV. Its high steering precision and stoically stable rear axle gave me a lot of confidence in the Hatzenbach section,” said test driver Lars Kern, who accompanied long periods of the car’s development, of his record drive.

“It changed direction at lightning speed in the fast curves such as between Hohe Acht and Eiskurve, with no wobble and no tendency to understeer. Even in this technical stretch, the Cayenne is a real driver’s car that is easy to control,” according to the test and development driver. “The wheels normally leave the ground at both the Pflanzgarten I and II crests but these sections felt smooth and quiet in this Cayenne. There is a lot of wheel travel, and the body stays solid and controlled. The drivetrain makes a really strong impression. It delivers power in every situation as well as perfect gear changes.”

Cayenne-typical all-rounder

According to Stefan Weckbach, Vice-President Product Line Cayenne, this new Cayenne model promises to be a top performer. During its development, exceptional on-road performance was the focus, which would be expected. “Our record-breaking Cayenne is based on the Cayenne Turbo Coupe, though more systematically designed for maximum longitudinal and lateral dynamics,” he explained.

Kern recorded his fast lap of the Nordschleife with a camouflaged vehicle, equipped with a racing seat and roll-cage for safety reasons. The tyres fitted were 22-inch Pirelli P Zero Corsas that were specially developed for the new Cayenne model and will be fitted as standard.

2-time World Rally Champion and Porsche Brand Ambassador has also completed numerous test laps in the high-performance SUV on the Hockenheimring circuit. Like Kern, Rohrl was also impressed, saying: “The car remains incredibly stable even in fast corners, and its turn-in behaviour is extremely precise. More than ever, you have the feeling that you are sitting in a compact sportscar rather than in a large SUV.”

2021 Porsche Cayenne enhanced with new Premium Package


Sepang International Circuit gears up for 2016

The Sepang International Circuit (SIC) gears itself up for 2016 despite a challenging year in 2015.

Image credit: Sepang International Circuit PR

The
Sepang International Circuit (SIC)
 is all set and ready to take on 2016. Despite the difficult year that was 2015, the circuit’s management remains optimistic as it readies itself to take on more challenges this year.

Last year saw the circuit record a decline in spectatorship for one of its key annual events, the Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Another major event that performed below its expectations was the 2015 eni FIM Malaysian World Superbike Championship (WSBK) race weekend.

In its press release, the circuit’s management admitted that these two events were plagued by the depreciating exchange value of the Malaysian Ringgit currency. It also highlighted that last year’s Hari Raya festive holiday period also played a role in the low fan support for the Malaysian WSBK race weekend.

Image credit: Sepang International Circuit PR

Although the annual Malaysian MotoGP weekend was hailed as a major success indeed, even it was in jeopardy of being cancelled due to the major haze ecological pandemic. Nevertheless, last year’s 2015 Shell Malaysian MotoGP went ahead as planned with the infamous on-track drama adding further to the Malaysian MotoGP event’s 25th anniversary celebrations as well.

The circuit will be faced with a challenging year ahead. Besides the uncertain economic conditions, the early Hari Raya festive holidays, as well as the circuit’s
planned temporary closure for resurfacing and upgrades
, SIC remains optimistic and has even released tentative dates for three major events.

Things will kick off with the third running of the eni FIM Malaysian WSBK weekend from May 13 to May 15, followed by the annual Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix scheduled from Sept 30 to Oct 2, as well as the Malaysian MotoGP race weekend slated from Oct 28 to Oct 30.

More information as well as ticketing information can be obtained by visiting
sepangcircuit.com
.

Main image credit: Sepang International Circuit PR


Kia Optima EX updated for 2019 – RM139,888

The folks from Naza Kia Malaysia has officially introduced the latest updated variant in the current family sedan line-up in the form of the 2019 Kia Optima EX. Highlighting on distinctive design, performance, latest technology, and overall comfort, the updated Kia Optima EX is now available for a very exciting driving experience.

According to Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, “The New Optima EX with upgraded features makes a good addition to our Optima range with its bold style, performance and added feature, the Around View Monitor (AVM) system which is not found in the predecessor.”

“The striking design and upgraded features of this well-rounded sedan easily sets it apart from others in the same segment and gives great value for money at this price tag,” he added.

The new Optima EX comes ready with:

Nu 2.0L CVVL engine with 160hp

6-speed Automatic Transmission

17-inch alloy wheels

LED headlamps, fog lamps and rear combination lamps

There are three different colour options to choose from; Aurora Black Pearl, Snow White Pearl and Platinum Graphite. On-the-road price without insurance? Only RM139,888. For more information, head over to
www.kia.com
.


Anthony Loke Announces New EV Number Plates And Policies For EV Adoption

During today’s launch of GWM’s new 4S sales and service centre in Seremban, Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced new policies to push the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia.

As of now and until the end of 2025, road tax for EVs is tax-free. However, as is widely known, Malaysian EV owners and potential buyers are concerned about the road tax structure after that.

Currently, the calculation is based on a kilowatt per hour-based system. The final road tax amount for an EV is calculated based on the total power rating of the electric motors, with different power brackets determining the base rate and accompanying progressive rate.

The road tax prices currently range from RM243 for the Hyundai Kona Electric which has a 39.2kWh battery and a power output of 100kW/136PS to the highest amount at RM12,094 for the Porsche Taycan Turbo S which has a 93.4kWh battery that produces 560kW/761PS.

Loke stated that he has instructed the Ministry to review the road tax structure to make it cheaper than internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. A move that he believes will promote and make it more affordable for people to own an EV.

In addition, Loke also announced that there will be an introduction of a new number plate system for EV owners. It was not clear when this will be introduced but we know it is in the coming months.

Instead of the usual ‘A’ in Perak and ‘V’ in Selangor, EV owners will have the option to start their number plates with ‘EV’. This new ‘EV’ number plate series will start from EV 1 to 9999 and move on to EVA, EVB, EVC (1-9999) and so on as per our current number plate structure. Additionally, these number plates will come integrated with RFID.

Loke also noted that having these number plates will look good on EV cars and also contribute to certain safety measures.

What safety measures? For example, if there is a major accident involving an EV and there is an electrical discharge, similar to a live wire, authorities who arrive at the scene can spot that it is an EV and have a different approach to the situation without getting harmed.

But the real question here is, what are the ministry’s plans after they run out of ‘EV’ number plates? Will it continue as ‘EVAA’, ‘EVAB’ or ‘EVAC’? Or do you have a better idea? Let us know in the comments section.


Book a Honda this April & enjoy EXTRA BONUS!

Honda Malaysia
 has launched their latest
“Enjoy the Gifts of Booking Early”
 campaign as the ultimate reason to own a brand-new Honda this April. To further enhance the ‘Joy of Buying’ experience, there will be several special rewards waiting for future Honda owners apart from owning very, VERY exciting cars, of course.

These special rewards include Honda Bonus*, Free Service Voucher or Cash options* worth up to RM3,500, and more exclusive gifts*. These added extras are waiting just for you if you purchase any of the models stated below from 1 April until 30 April 2019:

Jazz

Jazz Hybrid

City

City Hybrid

BR-V

Accord

CR-V

Odyssey

The “Enjoy the Gifts of Booking Early” campaign is one of the efforts by Honda Malaysia to thank Malaysians for putting their trust in the brand and making them the No.1 Non-National brand for four consecutive years and No.2 position in overall Total Industry Volume (TIV) for three consecutive years.

In short, it is safe to say that owning any current Honda model will make you a winner and then some especially with the added bonuses available only this month thanks to the “Enjoy the Gifts of Booking Early” campaign (we suggest that you look at the latest BR-V models for the best value for money 7-seater SUV).

For more information on the “Enjoy the Gifts of Booking Early” campaign or to book a test drive, customers can visit any of the 98 authorised Honda dealerships nationwide or call Honda’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log onto
www.honda.com.my
 for more information.


2020 BMW X3 xDrive30e Plug-in Hybrid unveiled

BMW has unveiled its latest electrified model in the form of the 2020 BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in hybrid. This latest addition to the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) premium segment offers ‘highest standards of driving dynamics and efficiency.’

The biggest update to this new BMW X3 is, of course, the addition of an electric motor that works hand-in-hand with its already powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. This totals up to a peak power figure of 252hp and 420Nm of maximum torque.

BMW also introduced the XtraBoost on-demand performance system as standard which helps to bump up the total power output of its hybrid-drive system by 40hp at the touch of a button. Driving on electric power alone offers a range of around 55km and a combined fuel economy figures sits at around 54.5-50km/litre of fuel.

The latest BMW PHEV also features regenerative braking to further amp up its efficiency level where all the braking energy will be ‘capture’ and stored in the system’s lithium-ion high-voltage battery. The electric motor also functions as the car’s generator for its electrical system (not the combustion engine) which further enhances the 2020 BMW X3’s overall efficiency.

All of its power is sent to the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive unit via a very capable eight-speed Steptronic gearbox. This means that hitting 100km/h from a standstill can be achieved in just 6.1 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to around 210km/h, which is more than enough for your everyday travel needs.

The 2020 BMW X3 xDrive30e plug-in Hybrid does not sacrifice any amount of space, especially the boot space at the back. If you have loads of baggage to carry around, the electrified X3 offers a luggage capacity of 450 litres. So, that’s 300 bottles of 1.5-litre mineral water for you to lug around (if you afraid of dying of thirst).

The X3 xDrive30e is offered in the same model configurations as other X3 variants – SE, xLine and the range-topping M Sport trim – all boasting a high level of standard features as well as a range of additional equipment options. Production will begin in December 2019 and by the looks of things, BMW is well on their way to introducing a fully electrified X3 sometime next year.

2020 BMW M340i xDrive range unveiled – Saloon & Touring variants


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia offers 1-hour test-drives without salesman being present

Are you one of those who prefers to be alone at the wheel when test-driving a vehicle? Some people are like that and dislike having a salesman accompany them, sometimes being distracting as they keep talking about the features of the model. But for virtually all companies, that would be an understandable policy – after all, a stranger is taking their property out for a drive and all they have are some of his personal details.

Furthermore, in these pandemic times, customers may also be uncomfortable having a stranger in the vehicle with them, even if everyone follows SOPs.

For Klang Valley customers

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) understands such feelings and now offers the option of an unaccompanied test-drive for customers in the Klang Valley. This option is for the popular
Triton Athlete
 pick-up truck and the
XPANDER 7-seater MPV
. Of course, if they wish, the salesman can also be present and explain the many features in the vehicles so they can enjoy it more on their drive.

To request for a test-drive, customers should visit MMM’s official website at
www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my/testdrive2u/
 and fill out the form online. Upon receiving the request, an authorized Mitsubishi Motors dealer nearest to them will make contact to verify and confirm the appointment. Arrangements will then be made to deliver the test-drive vehicle to the customer’s preferred location for the test-drive which can be up to an hour long.

Fully sanitized vehicles for peace of mind

MMM assures customers that every test-drive is properly sanitized, especially at all touchpoints, for their safety and peace of mind. Product information will also be provided to ensure that the customer can operate the various systems, especially those which enhance comfort or add convenience. Needless to say, the customer should have a valid driving licence  to drive on public roads.

For example, in both models, there’s seamless connectivity for compatible smartphones with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to put favourite apps in the infotainment system. This means the driver can use those apps right from the dashboard and in some cases, voice commands also provide handsfree operation.

“As the nation moves towards the endemic era, living with COVID-19 and SOPs are the New Normal  challenges that we need to adapt to. As a company, we adapt our business primarily to keep our customers safe. Hence we offer the unaccompanied test-drive option for a peace-of-mind shopping experience. This option will allow our customers to experience the Mitsubishi cars on their terms with limited contact,” said Shinya Ikeda, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

“Shopping for a new vehicle present day is different than it was before the pandemic. At Mitsubishi Motors, we saw this as an opportunity to improve our customer’s experience and convenience. Through our
Mitsubishi Online Showroom
, customers can now learn about Mitsubishi vehicles, and they only need to fill up a form to schedule an appointment with our authorized dealers.  We will then take care of the rest of the process right to delivering the Mitsubishi vehicle to customer’s doorstep,” Mr. Ikeda added.

For those who already own a Mitsubishi vehicle, using the MITSUBISHI CONNECT MY mobile app makes it easy to schedule a service appointment. They can also obtain assistance by calling MMM’s Customer Careline at
1800 18 8161
.

Your new Mitsubishi vehicle can now be delivered right to your home


An iconic British sportscar recreated – Healey by Caton

Like many British sportscars of the 1950s, the Austin-Healey 100 has become an iconic model because of its historical significance. Built between 1953 and 1956, it was the first model of the association between Austin and Donald Healey which would last for 20 years. Over 14,600 cars were built and those that are still in existence today are valuable collectors items.

For those who want this piece of British motoring history but cannot acquire one, Caton, a new company specialising in design and creation of ultra-exclusive, highly aspirational luxury products will restore and modernise the model – known as Healey by Caton – as its first creation.

The original Austin-Healey 100 built between 1953 and 1956.

Only 25 units to be hand-built

It will be extremely rare too, with a limited run of 25 hand-built restored cars at the factory in England. Each car will have a unique combination of design and engineering comparable to established carmakers, with traditional craftsmanship techniques.

Taking a forensic yet sympathetic approach, Caton’s designers have introduced a subtle smoothness to the Healey’s instantly recognisable lines, gently amplifying the visual dynamism while fully respecting the engineering and design principles of the original car’s creator.

The execution of the cleaner, smoother look has been applied across the entire body, with all seams and beading removed. This is evident in the new front aluminium fenders, which feature a more clamshell-like construction. Despite being built on an English Wheel, using traditional methods, they are entirely free of the beading that ran through the centre of the original items. A new air vent and a finisher have been integrated into the flanks, visually amplifying the diving line that runs along the side of the car.

Refining the design

For the most part, though, Caton has refined, rather than added to the Healey’s body. The rear bumpers are gone, as are the external boot hinges, replaced with new internal hinges running on modern gas struts. The boot handle is deleted too, and the lid is now opened by an internal release mechanism, run by a new, modern Caton key.

“To remain true to the car’s DNA, we asked ourselves: ‘What would Healey have done when building a car in the Fifties if they had the tools and manufacturing techniques that we are in the unique position to have at our disposal today?’” said Darryl Scriven, who directed the design work.

Scriven refers to technology that enables a complete 3D scan of each donor car. A Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine enabled the fabricators to work to tolerances of just 0.2 mm, creating ultra-perfect panel gaps that add to the beautification of the bodyshell. Yet the team also deployed technology that would have been entirely familiar to those building the car in period, such as an English Wheel, which was used to hand-roll the aluminium panels.

2954 cc 4-cylinder engine

The car is powered by a 185 bhp/264 Nm 2954 cc 4-cylinder engine, not far different from the 2660 cc displacement of the original’s powerplant. Based on an original Austin-Healey block, the engine is completely stripped down, fully lightened, balanced, and then refurbished to zero kilometres. It is further enhanced with a full steel crankshaft, upgraded bearing shells, high compression pistons, a race camshaft with more aggressive lobes and roller rockers. Larger Twin H8 carburettors (yes,
carburettors
!)and gas flow inlets provide enhance throttle response, while a race side-exit exhaust system adds further to aural appeal.

The engine, and most of the car’s mechanical components, are the work of the world’s leading Healey specialists J.M.E. Healeys, who have strong historical links with the original Healey company. Jonathan Everard, who founded J.M.E., and his father Harold, actually worked for the Donald Healey Motor Company in earlier years. Today, the company is run by Jonathan’s sons and it is based in Warwick, which was the original home of the Healey company.

The car benefits from a new chassis, strengthened and modified at known weak points – including the addition of new front and rear bulkheads – identified from J.M.E.’s decades of experience in restoring, servicing, and rallying Healeys. Strengthened driveshafts transfer the performance to the road but there are no electronic traction or stability controls to dilute the driving experience. Nor is there ABS, in keeping with the purist driving feel, but all four wheels have disc brakes.

Interior modernised with focus on comfort

Inside, the cockpit is totally modernised with a focus on the very best in contemporary and period materials. Interestingly, the original Healey 100s were designed and built for people who were shorter back then and many of today’s drivers may be somewhat cramped. Thanks to a redesign of the transmission tunnel and new 5-speed manual gearbox, there has been a transformation in cabin space. As a result, the Healey by Caton is a highly practical sportscar, offering today’s drivers the feeling of a classic but with comfort as well.

With production of the Healey by Caton limited to 25 units, the company will be able to liaise with each customer on a highly personal, one-to-one basis. The future owners can visit the factory on a regular basis and besides touring the facilities, they can also watch every stage of their car being built.

Caton will offer the ability to add completely bespoke and personal touches, whether for the car’s paint finish (in any colour imaginable) or choosing from the extensive array of materials and trim suite available for the car’s interior.

“No two examples of the Healey by Caton will be the same, but each will be of exceptional beauty and built to the highest possible OEM levels of quality. Each will represent a true reincarnation of the iconic Austin-Healey 100 sportscar utterly fitting for the modern age. Our aim is to deliver an unrivalled, immersive, intoxicating and highly emotional driving experience,” said Tim Strafford, CEO of Caton’s strategic vehicle building partner, Envisage Group.

The pricing with a car included is likely to be in the region of £395,000 (about RM2.2 million) but the official announcement will be made at Salon Prive London on April 21. Production will commence during this quarter of the year.

Yokohama revives production of classic tyres for old car models


Malaysia To Be First Asia-Pacific Market To Launch Peugeot Landtrek Pick-Up Truck

Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB) will soon be adding another model to its Peugeot range and this one will surprise many people: it’s a pick-up truck. Although the French carmaker has been making motor vehicles for over 100 years, pick-up trucks have never featured strongly in its range of products, even though the vehicles have been around almost as long as the passenger car.

This will be the first market in the Asia Pacific region to have the Peugeot truck, which has the name of Landtrek. However, the truck already exists in Asia – except that it is not sold as a Peugeot product but as the Kaicene F70 from Changan Automobile which jointly developed the model with Peugeot.

Peugeot’s representative in 1-ton truck segment
Introduced in the Latin American market in 2020 and then in some African markets, the Landtrek gives Peugeot a representative in a segment of significance that it has not been represented in. However, with existing players like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-MAX dominant in this segment, the potential volumes for a Peugeot truck would not have justified it spending a huge sum of money to develop its own model.

So it teamed up with the Chinese carmaker to develop a new truck, which reduced the development costs the same way as Ford and Volkswagen with the
Ranger
/
Amarok
 and Isuzu and Mazda with the D-MAX/
BT-50
. The platforms are shared with common engineering and the differentiation is in how each manufacturer styles their model.

There are various cabs for the Landtrek but for Malaysia, the double cab is the most popular, especially as BAASB would be targeting the lifestyle market rather than promoting it as a workhorse. The large grille aperture of the truck lends itself well to inserting the latest Peugeot face which has a larger corporate ‘face’ with the PEUGEOT name on the top edge and a full Lion in the middle.

Landtrek has an overall length of 5.33 metres and width of 1.92 metres, which is pretty much like the Hilux. Trucks in this 1-ton segment are all roughly the same in size and variations are mainly in the dimensions of the cargo area. From what we saw of the display unit recently, the cargo box has a 500 mm depth, which should be useful for containing larger items. However, the floor seems to be a bit high so when open, the tailgate is also a bit higher.

1.9-litre VGT turbodiesel engine
BAASB will offer the Landtrek with a 1.9-litre 16-valve diesel engine with variable turbocharger geometry for enhanced responsiveness. The output of 150 bhp/350 Nm is delivered to the four wheels through a 6-speed Getrag gearbox and transfer case for 4×4 when needed. To give better control and stability on slippery tracks, the rear differential is equipped with an eLocker automatic disengagement system which provides extra traction when one wheel slips.

Premium cabin
The cabin has been given a premium touch with special attention paid to the comfort of the rear 3 passengers. For flexibility, the rear seats have folding backrests to place items when required. When folded down, the backrests can support a load of up to 100 kgs. In addition, two ISOFIX points allow secure and easy installation of compatible childseats.

While the i-Cockpit concept used in many of its passenger cars cannot be adopted for the Landtrek, the dashboard has still been designed for functionality and ease of operating the carious systems. There’s a 10-inch HD screen sits on top of the dashboard, easily visible to the driver and front passengers and instead of relying on just a touchscreen, toggle switches provide more positive control and selection.

It can be expected that the Landtrek will come with a comprehensive set of safety features and systems. These days, with pick-up trucks being used more on highways and travelling at high speeds, the need for active safety systems is just as important as in passenger cars. And of course, being in a truck means the driver has a better view all round from the higher position.

The Landtrek will be launched soon and the estimated price starts at RM123,000. Bookings are accepted at Peugeot showrooms if you want to be first to own a Peugeot pick-up truck.

Stellantis plant in Kedah begins rolling out new Peugeot 2008 for Malaysian and ASEAN markets


Get the best deals with Das WeltAuto at Volkswagen Fest 2019

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has officially launched their very own Das WeltAuto, Volkswagen’s global used car program which offers certified used cars customers can trust at great deals. The launch was held at the Volkswagen Fest 2019 currently happening now until Sunday (1 September 2019).

The award-winning Das WeltAuto program accepts all models and brands for trade-in and each and every vehicle goes through a strict 133-point check by Volkswagen Master Technicians in order to get certified to be sold under the program.

Customers who indulge in the Das WeltAuto certified vehicles will also enjoy a one-year extended warranty and one-year roadside assistance. Other benefits also include the Volkswagen Care Plus for all VW cars above five years.

According to Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, “What makes Das WeltAuto different from other used car channels is that you can expect the same exceptional level of service as a new car purchase experience from a dealer you can trust, with experienced sales staff who will provide the best advice and maximum transparency. All this from a brand you can rely on – and most importantly, a product you can trust.”

All certified vehicles are equipped with only genuine parts as a promise by the Das WeltAuto program. These vehicles under the program are also promised to be accident-free and come together with complete proof of service by authorised Volkswagen service centres.

Interested to get the best deals by Volkswagen? The Das WeltAuto is currently available at four VW dealerships in Malaysia which are Puchong, Gombak, Alor Setar and Juru. For more information or if you want to book a test drive, head over to
https://www.dasweltauto.my/
.

If you would to see the wide selection for yourself, make your way to the Setia City Convention Centre from now until Sunday (30 August – 1 September 2019) for the Volkswagen Fest 2019 for everything and anything Volkswagen.

Volkswagen Fest 2019 is happening this weekend!


Volvo to develop self-driving cars for Uber

Volvo  has signed a framework agreement with Uber, which will see the ride-sharing company purchase several thousand vehicles between 2019 and 2021. This non-exclusive agreement will enhance the strategic partnership that was announced between the two parties back in August 2016.

These vehicles will be based on Volvo’s fully modular platform that it calls Scalable Product Architecture (SPA). It serves as a base for current and future vehicles from the Swedish automaker. Currently, it underpins cars the like the S90  series and the new XC60 SUV.

Since its scalable, SPA can be used to develop a variety of different Volvos from a compact hatchback to a full-blown SUV. Volvo claims that it is one of the most advanced car architectures in the world, but Volkswagen employ a similar strategy with its own modular platform.

Volvo’s engineers are working closely with those from Uber to jointly develop the XC90 to serve in the ride-sharing service’s car fleet. These base vehicles will be fitted with the necessary safety, redundancy and autonomous-driving technologies that will enable Uber to offer its customers a fully autonomous ride sharing service.

“The automotive industry is being disrupted by technology, and Volvo Cars chooses to be an active part of that disruption,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and Chief Executive of Volvo Cars. “Our aim is to be the supplier of choice for AD ride-sharing service providers globally. Today’s agreement with Uber is a primary example of that strategic direction.”

Despite this, Volvo isn’t handing over the ‘keys to the kingdom’ to Uber, instead it will be developing its own independent autonomous-car strategy. This will be parallel and unrelated to that of Uber’s, with solid plans of introducing Volvo’s first fully autonomous car in 2021.


McLaren GT Ride-On… the affordable model in the sportscar maker’s range

If you’ve long been thinking of having a McLaren sportscar in your home, it’s easier than you think. Perhaps you’ve never known about the carmaker’s junior Ride-On range which models such as the P1, 720S and Senna. And now comes the latest addition – the McLaren GT.

Based on the lightest and quickest accelerating vehicle in its class, the McLaren GT Ride-On is ahead of the other larger models the carmaker offers today as it is fully electric. Suitable for supercar enthusiasts aged 3 to 6, the GT Ride-On comes with McLaren’s iconic dihedral doors, functional storage compartment and brake pedal with working LED lights

Many options to add

Like all McLarens, the new Ride-On model has an impressive list of standard options including authentic McLaren design detailing. Working dihedral doors make for the ultimate entrance and getaway and a functional storage compartment is ideal for stowing any junior driving essentials.

There’s also a workable dashboard controls with key start that activates McLaren engine sounds. Journeys can also be accompanied by music, played through an infotainment system that can access files from a USB device or SD card with optional MP4 display screen.

The little drivers will get a thrill from the working accelerator with revving sound and brake pedal with brake light function as they speed off on their adventures.

To inspire future enthusiasts

‘’At McLaren Automotive, we aim to inspire the future generation of supercar enthusiasts. The new GT Ride-On allows even the smallest of fans to discover the magic of our pioneering supercars. We’re proud to develop and encourage younger minds and seek to create the next generation of drivers, engineers, and automotive designers,’’ said Hayley Robinson, Merchandise, Licensing & Partnerships Manager at McLaren Automotive.

Available in 6 authentic McLaren colours – Burnished Copper, Silica White, Onyx Black, McLaren Orange, Amaranth Red and Burton Blue – it is priced from £163.00 to £234.00 (around RM840 – RM1,350).

The larger full-sized McLaren GT costs considerably more…

McLaren Elva joins LEGO Speed Champions series


Get your kids their very own Star Wars Landspeeder!

Ever wanted your very own Star Wars Landspeeder piloted by one of the franchise’s most iconic characters, Luke Skywalker? Well, you can’t! But there’s still hope for your children and it is all thanks to the folks from Radio Flyer.

If you’ve watched Star Wars: A New Hope, you’d most probably notice Luke Skywalker roaming around on board the anti-gravity craft across the desert (Soro Suub Corporation X-34 landspeeder, to be exact). Now, you can get one for your kids to live out your Star Wars dreams (we mean theirs, not yours…).

With two seats, interactive dashboard with lights and real movie sounds, kids can cruise in this beauty at a maximum of 8km/h. two speed settings are available for forward propulsion plus a reverse in case you get stuck against a horde of Sand people.

The iconic Star Wars craft comes with a 12-Volt rechargeable battery and it allows a maximum weight of 60kg so even you tiny adults can actually have a go (if the Force allows it, that is…). If you’re willing to spend, you can probably get one on Amazon at around $800 (around RM3,346).

May the force be with you (when you talk to your wives about getting one for your young Padawans).


Go racing with this 430hp Toyota GR Supra GT4 – RM815k each

Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) has announced their plans to start sales on the pumped-up Toyota GR Supra GT4, a race machine for interested customer teams beginning March 2020 in Europe. This 430hp A90 Supra is will also go up for sale in Japan and other Asian countries next October for the ultimate racing nirvana.

What’s special about this particular GR Supra GT4? The very impressive 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with a single twin-scroll turbocharger has been tuned with MO’ POWER BABY at 430hp (compared to the standard 340hp available in the road-going unit).

They’ve also fitted a set of very delicious Akrapovic exhaust system and Ravenol engine lubricant for its first fill-up. As for stopping power, that too has been enhanced with the use of dedicated racing brake calipers (six-piston at the front, four-piston at the rear). Most of the groundwork is handled by some sticky Pirelli rubbers.

This race machine also comes with a high-strength roll cage and FIA-standard racing seats with six-point harness. For GT4 competition, this GR Supra is also fitted with specific carbon fibre instrument panel, steering wheel, front splitter, rear wing, and all the other race-winning essentials.

The planned car price is 175,000€ (around RM815,748) excluding tax, custom fee, logistic fee, etc. We are already in love with the stock on-the-road Supra and we can’t imagine how this baby will burn rubber and blast through corners in the track. Our guess? It would be quite majestic to witness.

Toyota GR Supra 3000GT Concept in the works?


BMW Submits More Than 40 New Model Name Trademark Applications

BMW has submitted more than 40 applications to register the names for its upcoming cars, including the names of its i118 to the iX760, and M350 as trademarks.

The 48 trademark applications combine names beginning with I “X,” “iX,” or “M,” followed by a number, into four-letter or number-defined categories. It’s likely that “I” stands for electric vehicles, such as the i7, “X” for crossovers and SAVs, and “iX” for an electric SAV, like the one in the current market.

The current BMW vocabulary contains endings like “d,” I “e,” “sDrive,” “xDrive,” and “MPerformance.” When the iX560 goes into production, it may become the iX560 xDrive. What’s still unknown though is if non-electric vehicles will use the same trim stages.

BMW has also requested the M350 trademark. The lack of an “I” in the name hints that the M350 will be a combustion-powered vehicle almost surely to take the place of the present M340i.

German media outlets reported that Mercedes-Benz and Audi doesn’t plan to release new ICE vehicles after 2025. Perhaps BMW is driving on a different path when it comes to powerplants

According to CarScoops, these are some of the trademarks that BMW has filed for with the German Trade Mark and Patent Office:

Automakers constantly file trademark applications all over the world so we shall wait and see if these trademarks are approved and hope that something should come of this.


Hispano Suiza adds a second, more exclusive, hypercar to its Carmen range

Hispano Suiza, the Spanish manufacturer with a history going back to 1904, has launched a second model as a follow-up to its Carmen all-electric hypercar which debuted last year. The new model is  the Carmen Boulogne, a sportier evolution of the Carmen, and it also fully electric.

The current plan is to build only 5 units for sale, each priced from 1.65 million euros  (about RM8.2 million) and take approximately 12 months to complete. 14 units of the Carmen will be available, with the first unit to be delivered in 2022.

A name from 1921

The ‘Boulogne’ name dates back to 1921, when Hispano Suiza made a racing version of its high-performance H6 Coupe and entered it in the George Boillot Cup, an endurance race lasting more than 3½ hours around the French city of Boulogne. There, Hispano Suiza achieved three consecutive victories with its H6. The Carmen Boulogne pays tribute to these historic motorsport victories

Its powertrain produces 1,114 ps – 95 ps more than the Carmen – and it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 2.6 seconds, with a maximum speed limited to 290 km/h. Its weight of 1,630 kgs is 60kgs less than the Carmen, achieved by optimisation of structural elements such as the suspension and carbonfibre subframe. There are also new CNC parts and a carbonfibre roof, among other things.

Visible carbonfibre bodyshell

The entire carbonfibre bodyshell of the Carmen Boulogne is visible under a clear varnish that emphasizes its sportiness and preserves the timeless elegance of this model. It sports the same semi-circular headlights and aggressive ‘scowl’ as the Carmen, with the difference of an imposing copper-coloured grille.

The five customers can fully customize the model with the assistance of the brand’s ‘Unique Tailormade’ department. The sleek interior features suede or black Alcantara on the bulkhead and door panels.

The Carmen Boulogne is powered by four permanent-magnet synchronous motors, two on each rear wheel. The torque of each engine is controlled through sophisticated vectoring systems developed in-house with the expertise gained in Formula E.

1,600 Nm of torque from standstill

From 0 to 6,500 rpm, the engines are capable of generating up to 1,600 Nm of torque, allowing for the sizzling acceleration. The lithium-ion polymer battery pack that provides ‘fuel’ has a capacity of 80 kWh and is claimed to enable driving range of up to 400 kms.

The batteries are designed and produced in-house, including a complete temperature control system to ensure that the cells can operate optimally. The fast-charging capability at more than 80 kW DC  is said to require 30 minutes to charge 30 – 80%.

The 2021 Carmen hypercar gets its name from the founder’s daughter, with design inspiration from Hispano Suiza’s iconic 1930s design called the Dubonnet Xenia (top car).

Hispano Suiza has a long history going back to the early 1900s and was a well known name in motor racing.


You will soon be able to drive on the same roads from your roadtrip on a simulator

Imagine telling your friend in America about driving along the
scenic Temiang – Pantai Highway in Negeri Sembilan
 or the popular Ulu Yam road that leads to Genting Highlands on the Selangor/Pahang border. Then you send over a file which can be loaded onto their computer and they too can take a virtual drive along the same route as you did.

Until now, reproducing roads and racing circuits for computer games has required specialised software and skills and since the first ‘
Test Drive’
 simulator in the 1980s, the digital worlds on the screen have become more and more realistic. But they are still limited to whatever the game creator chooses, rather than the user.

Now Porsche is developing an innovative software solution in cooperation with Swiss start-up Way Ahead Technologies known as the Virtual Roads project which can make this a reality. The aim is to offer drivers the opportunity to quickly and easily record their favourite routes from real life and transfer them into a videogame.

Developing a new videogame can take months, if not years. For example, the tracks for racing simulators must be precisely scanned by experts using lasers before they can be digitalised. Porsche hopes to considerably accelerate this time-consuming process when Virtual Roads is ready to be launched.

In the future, the innovation project will allow drivers to record any route using a specific app on their smartphone which can be mounted behind the windscreen. The data can then be transferred automatically to the virtual world with software that converts the recordings of the road and surrounding area into a 3D environment. This process is expected to take less than 1% of the time (less than an hour) required by a conventional digitalisation process using lasers.

Driving the most beautiful roads virtually

“If you ask people what they think is the most beautiful road, everyone has their own, very personal route in mind. The characteristics of the topography are what make a route particularly attractive, regardless of whether it is a unique Alpine pass or a legendary coastal road,” said Robert Ader, Chief Marketing Officer at Porsche, whose department is responsible for the project. “We want to trigger these great memories with a much simpler digitalisation process that allows anyone to drive their favourite route virtually.”

The project is based on specialist software that uses technology such as artificial intelligence to capture a road and its surrounding features like dividers and trees. These characteristics are then reproduced as faithfully and quickly as possible in a digital 3D form. The programme, developed by Way Ahead Technologies, draws on an extensive graphics archive.

Imagery from the real world (top) recorded on a smartphone can be quickly converted into a digital scene (above) and then loaded onto a videogame simulator.

Data protection is an important element of the development process. The programme makes sure that other road-users are also ‘captured’ from real life and transferred into the virtual world. This is a similar type of measures as taken in Google Maps where vehicle numberplates, faces and anything with personal identification is obscured.

The virtual experience in a Porsche

The file for each unique route that is generated using the new application is currently compatible with a number of racing games including ‘
Assetto Corsa
‘, meaning that Porsche drivers and fans of the brand will have access to all the possibilities of the virtual world. The routes can be experienced again and again on any simulator equipped with the appropriate equipment or via a smartphone.

Drivers will be able to enjoy the trip along the beautiful mountain roads in Europe or as mentioned earlier, the drive along the Temiang-Pantai Highway – and so can their friends. The innovation project has another great advantage: even routes that are closed to the general public or only open on designated days can be experienced in a sportscar from Porsche and shared with others.

Racing games generally allow the user to choose any car for their virtual drive and the simulation is based on the power output and handling of the chosen vehicle. The characteristics of the route are also conveyed in the most realistic way possible. An appropriately equipped simulator mimics an uneven road surface with vibration, while drivers who approach a corner too fast will feel themselves slide off the road.

The Temiang-Pantai Highway in Negeri Sembilan which was opened last year.

Ambitious drivers can use the simulations to tackle particularly demanding routes in a sportscar, improve their lap times and compete with others without any risk to their lives. And another thing: they can also go faster than the speed limits for the highway with getting caught by a speed camera! The technology can also be used for a wide range of other scenarios as well.

“After several years of development work, our software is now so advanced that it can digitalise routes for virtual roads of up to 8 kilometres long in less than an hour, depending on how complex the route is,” revealed Roger Rueegg from Way Ahead Technologies. “We’re also looking at other options and functions at the moment. For example, data from the sensors that measure lateral acceleration and chassis control could also be recorded and used in the future”.

Porsche Mission R concept sportscar cockpit can also be a standalone simulator


Hyundai Staria 10-seater to be launched in fourth quarter

While the Toyota Hiace and its clones from China have long been popular among fleet operators requiring seating for 10 persons or more, there has also been the Hyundai Starex in recent years as an alternative. Now Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) will also offer the Hyundai Staria with a 10-seat configuration.

To go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2022, the large Korean MPV is essentially similar to the
Staria 7-seater
 launched last year. According to Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of HSDM, there has been the expectation that the 10-seater Staria will also be made available.

“We have been getting enquiries for the 10-seater variant as there has been anticipation that the 10-seater variant will replace the Starex. Like the Starex, this new 10-seater variant of the Staria is ideal for big families, tour operators and businesses. However, it has vast improvements and more functionalities in every aspect compared to the Starex,” he said.

MPVs don’t usually qualify as ‘head-turners’ but the Staria does with its futuristic form said to be inspired by a spaceship. The exterior is defined by a single stroke running from front to rear — like the curve of light that illuminates the Earth’s horizon at sunrise when viewed from space.

A bold departure from conventional design, the front end has horizontal daytime running lights (DRLs) and a positioning lamp, both elements running across the width of the vehicle. This is complemented by a bold, wide radiator grille with a unique pattern. The clean silhouette incorporates a pair of low-set headlamps.

Hyundai’s designers have used the same body colour for all frontal parts to maximise the Staria’s modern and pure style. Its rear design emphasises brevity and sleekness, with parametric pixel lamps and a large rear glass area.

Within the spacious cabin measuring around 5 metres in length, there’s generous legroom said to be among the best in its segment. If more cargo space is needed, the seats can be pushed together, thanks to the versatile long sliding seat function. There’s also a full-flat mode at the back for activities that require a lot of room and interior flexibility, such as camping and for equipment-intensive transportation.

The Staria 10-seater has a 2.2-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine similar to that in the 7-seater. This unit produces 177 ps/431 Nm and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission operated by a simple electronic shift-by-wire system. The high-efficiency, air-cooled turbocharger enhances low speed performance, with peak torque available from 1,500 rpm.

The Staria 10-seater will be available in three variants, with pricing expected to start from RM17X,XXX, considerably less than the 7-seater Premium version which was RM358,888 (without insurance and with partial sales tax exemption at that time). HSDM also offered a choice of warranty periods with an extra charge for a longer period.

If you are looking for a modern MPV for lots of people, there’s also the
new Kia Carnival
 which seats 11 from Dinamikjaya Motors. Like the Staria, the Carnival is also imported from Korea in CBU form and priced at at RM196,340.80 (without insurance).


Nissan Introduces New Serena J Impul For Malaysia!

The new Nissan Serena J Impul has been introduced in Malaysia by Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd (ETCM). It comes in two variants; the Highway Star and the Premium Highway Star Package.

The Premium Highway Star Package has more features on the interior and exterior which is the result of a collaboration with renowned aftermarket tuner Impul Japan, which is what we are going to be focusing on here.

At the front, you can spot chrome trims that highlight the lines and also compliments the chrome inserts of Nissan’s V-Motion front grille. The rear chrome trimmings can be found at the lower end of the bumper which matches the trims in the front. These chrome trims come with what Nissan calls the “J-Impul Aerokit” which also has an exclusive two-tone exterior.

A set of 18-inch Impul Millennium Y-spoke alloy wheels with a black and polished finish wrapped in ultra-high-performance Goodyear Eagle F1 Sport tyres complete the Serena J Impul’s external package.

With a combination of leather-upholstered seats and door trims, the interior also receives a premium Impul makeover.

It has handpicked Nappa leather and contrasting hues of burgundy. The black accents in the interior also lift the cabin ambience significantly with a unique Japanese rock garden-inspired seat pattern and embroidered Impul logo to match.

It receives a 9-Inch advanced touchscreen infotainment (6.5-inch on the Highway Star) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and an 11.6 Inch roof-mounted monitor.

The Serena comes fitted with a fuel-efficient S-Hybrid powertrain comprising the MR20DD 2.0-litre CVTC four-cylinder engine supported by an Energy Control electric motor with a total output of 150hp and 200Nm of torque. It has a fuel efficiency of 14.2km/l and a range of up to 852km on a full tank.

Safety features

Every Serena comes standard with Nissan Intelligent Mobility 360° Safety Shield. Safety features include:

Intelligent Predictive Forward Collision Warning
Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking
Blind Spot Warning
Lane Departure Warning
Around View Monitor
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Intelligent Driver Alertness
Six airbags
Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System
ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist
ISOFIX child seat mounts
Hill Start Assist

The new Nissan Serena J Impul is priced at RM169,888. All Impul accessories are factory installed and come with a three-year or 100,000km warranty, whichever comes first.