‘Green Wave’ with Audi Traffic Light Information makes city driving more efficient (w/VIDEO)

During the 1960s, as traffic volumes began to increase, it became necessary for their movement to be managed so that jams did not form at junctions. Policemen did the job initially but eventually, traffic lights took over the task and provided management for 24 hours, rain or shine. However, along some roads like Jalan Mountbatten (Jalan Tun Perak today) in Kuala Lumpur, there were a number of junctions so traffic would move forward and then have to stop after a short distance. Then someone did some calculations and synchronised the green lights to occur at specific intervals so that if a car travelled along at a moderate speed, the driver would not have to stop as the lights would be green. Thus was born the ‘Green Wave’ system which was used on some Malaysia roads.

That system was a very simple one of just synchronising the traffic lights and today, with the availability of networked communications, a ‘Green Wave’ is possible on certain roads in two German cities. At Ingolstadt and Dusseldorf, Audi’s Traffic Light Information enables Audi drivers to see information from around 150 traffic lights in their cockpit, thus increasing their chance of catching a “green wave”.

By the middle of this year, most of the intersections in Dusseldorf – approximately 450 out of a total of some 600 installations – will be networked. Vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) services like Audi Traffic Light Information will help increase efficiency, convenience and safety on the roads.

Audi Traffic Light Information consists of two functions: Green Light Optimized Speed Advisory (GLOSA) and Time-to-Green. GLOSA calculates the ideal speed for getting a ‘green wave’. For example, if the function indicates the applicable speed limit, the next traffic light will be reached when it is at green.

Drivers do not have to accelerate unnecessarily, they are not stressed, and they drive more safely. GLOSA can also suggest reducing speed gradually about 250 metres ahead of the traffic lights so that the driver and the cars behind reach the intersection when the lights turn to green. This reduces uneconomical stop-and-go traffic.

If stopping at a red light is unavoidable, a countdown displays the seconds remaining until the next green phase begins (Time-to-Green). Drivers can relax, take their foot off the pedal and save fuel. A number of studies conclude that drivers will be able to move through cities more efficiently with networked traffic lights. In a pilot project, Audi vehicles had reduced fuel consumption by 15%.

“With Audi Traffic Light Information, we wish to improve convenience for drivers, increase traffic safety and encourage an economical style of driving that looks ahead,” said Andre Hainzlmaier, Head of Development for Apps, Connected Services and Smart City at Audi.

“To do this, we have to predict precisely how traffic lights will behave in the next two minutes. At the same time, exact forecasts are the biggest challenge. Most signals react variably to traffic volume and continuously adapt the intervals at which they switch between red and green,” he said.

Audi and its project partner, Traffic Technology Services, have developed a complex analytical algorithm that calculates exact predictions from three sources: from the control program of the traffic signals; from the real-time data of the traffic computer, a combination of road-occupation cameras, detector strips in the road surface, data on approaching buses and trams, and buttons that pedestrians press; as well as from historical data. The forecast algorithm improves itself continuously and learns how, for example, the traffic volume changes in morning commuter traffic or at midday when children leave nurseries and schools.

The Audi fleet plays a decisive part in optimizing the traffic light forecasts. “The cars send anonymized data when traffic lights are crossed to an Audi backend, which checks whether the actual crossings of traffic lights correspond to the forecast data. Only after this are the traffic lights cleared for the display in the car,” Hainzlmaier explained.

Audi Traffic Light Information premiered in 2016 in Las Vegas. Today, this V2I service is available at more than 10,000 intersections in North America. The carmaker is also the world’s first automotive manufacturer to network its series-production models with city traffic lights. Its system, available only in a few countries at this time, operates in all Audi e-tron, A4, A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q7 and Q8 models produced since mid-July 2019.

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.


Porsche Drive premium rental service comes to Asia

In 2014, Porsche introduced ‘Porsche Drive’ a premium car rental service concept in Germany which offers the rental of Porsche models for short periods. The concept has to date been introduced in France, Switzerland and North America as well.

This month, Porsche Drive is launched in the first Asian location – Tokyo, Japan. The service in Japan will be located in Toranomon Hills in Minato, which is in the southern centre of the city. It will provide a casual way to drive a Porsche for people who work and live in the Toranomon Hills and Atago Green Hills areas, and for inbound tourists at Andaz Tokyo.

The unique package pricing includes a minimum of 4 hours rental time and a maximum of 2 nights and 2 days. Porsche believes it meets the needs of those who would like to casually experience its cars in a flexible way.

Mobility services increasingly popular

By expanding its worldwide range of mobility services, Porsche is responding to changing customer preferences and the trend towards digital, flexible and individual choice. This includes the sportscar manufacturer making vehicles available for shorter periods of time.

In the US, for example, Porsche is offering ‘Porsche Passport’ (a subscription model) where customers pay a monthly fee for access to a vehicle pool and can replace the vehicles as often as they like. In addition, Porsche has launched ‘Porsche Host’ in the US market together with car-sharing platform provider Turo. In Germany, ‘Porsche InFlow’ is an offering allowing short-term and flexible use of used vehicles.

Star Wars theme for Porsche Taycan debut in Asia-Pacific region


2nd generation Toyota Mirai sets world distance record for hydrogen FCEV

Fuel cell technology for use in cars is still something in its infancy and only a few manufacturers have started to offer them commercially and even then, in limited numbers and markets. The Toyota Mirai is one of the fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) already in production, its first generation having been launched in 2014.

The
second generation of the Mirai
 went on sale late last year and is currently available in Japan, North America and some European markets. As would be expected, has more advanced fuel cell technology that improves performance in many areas.

The compact, high-output Fuel Cell stack has smaller and lighter parts, and it has been specially designed for use with the TNGA GA-L platform. The FC stack sets a new record for specific power density at 5.4 kW/litre as maximum power has risen from 114 kW to 128 kW.

Click here to read more about the 2nd generation Toyota Mirai

More fuel capacity

The new Mirai also has increased fuel capacity (approximately 20%) which extends range. Hydrogen can be pumped in much faster than the fastest recharging time for an electric vehicle which can be up to 25 minutes. Its refuelling time is less than 5 minutes at a 700-bar refuelling station.

Over 1,000 kms travelled

This increased range has enabled the Mirai to break the world record for the distance driven with one fill of hydrogen – over 1,000 kms. The record-breaking run was done in France last month and the car was driven on public roads.

The Mirai can store a total volume of 5.6 kgs of green hydrogen. During the run, the average fuel consumption was 0.55 kg/100 kms, the distance and consumption being certified by an independent authority.

‘Eco-driving’ style used

Toyota does mention that, to achieve the 1,003-km driving distance record, the 4 drivers adopted an ‘eco-driving’ style. However, they did not use any special techniques and everyday drivers can also apply a similar driving style if they want to achieve good fuel economy. Under normal driving conditions, the Mirai has a claimed range of 650 kms with all tanks full.

“It’s an amazing challenge that we achieved with the new Mirai. Internally, it is the mindset of ‘Start your Impossible’, going beyond our own limits, that drives us, and we proved it again,” said Frank Marotte, CEO of Toyota France.

Second generation of Toyota’s Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell car goes on sale today

Even after you recover from COVID-19 infection, your quality of life may be affected and you will still suffer for a long period after that. So avoid being infected by taking the necessary measures to protect yourself as well as others – and also get your vaccination.


Renault introduce new efficient engine

Renault has annoounced a new efficient engine that was co-developed by the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance and Daimler. This new engine will power the Scénic and Grand Scénic line-up but will eventually make its way into other models in the Renault range from 2018.

According to the automaker, what sets this new powerplant apart from the rest is that it offers a significant improvement in terms of driving pleasure and availability of torque throughout the rev band. It is able to accomplish this without detriment to fuel consumption or CO2 emissions.

The engine will be made available with three different power outputs, which are the Energy TCe 115, TCe 140 and TCe 150. The numbers of their nomenclature denote engine horsepower. The TCe 140 replaces the older TCe 130 and offers 35Nm more torque that is available across a broader range of the rev band.

Philippe Brunet, Alliance Global VP – Powertrain & Electric Vehicles, said, “Our new petrol engine embodies all the expertise of Groupe Renault’s engineers, the Alliance and our partner Daimler. It meets the quality standards of both the Alliance and Daimler, with more than 40,000 hours of testing.”

The engine block, coupled with manual and EDC dual-clutch automatic transmissions, is available in a variety of power ratings from 115hp to 160hp. It utilizes a number of different technologies including Bore Spray Coating, a cylinder coating technology from the Nissan GT-R engine, which reduces friction and optimises heat transfer.

Other features of the engine are higher pressure of the direct fuel injection, which is 250 bar and a unique combustion chamber design that optimizes the fuel/air mix. Adding to that, Dual Variable Timing Camshaft technology manipulates the intake and exhaust valves depending on engine load at any given time. The is what allows for better torque levels across the rev range.


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

Just as SUVs eventually reached the highest levels of the car market with the Rolls-Royce Cullinan being Introduced, the process of electrification will also ascend to the ‘summit’ of the industry before this decade ends. Rolls-Royce has already indicated on various occasions that it will offer an electrically-powered car in future and it confirms that this will be fully electric, without a hybrid powertrain.

The company is not intending to rush into launching the new product and says it will do so ‘when the time is right’. In the meantime, its engineers and designers are ensuring that every element meets Rolls-Royce’s technical, aesthetic and performance superlative standards.

Understanding that there is considerable interest and speculation surrounding the development of a totally different type of Rolls-Royce for the future, the company offers some perspectives in its transition to electric power.

Both founders of Rolls-Royce – Charles Rolls (above) and Henry Royce (below) – had personal experiences of using electrically-powered cars in the early 20th century.

Henry Royce was an electrical engineer

Interestingly, Henry Royce, one of the founders of the company, was one of the world’s first electrical engineers. Having developed an interest in electrical power, he joined the Electric Light & Power Generating Company (EL&PG) in Southwark, London. Eventually, he was made Chief Electrician at one of the company’s subsidiaries but when the company closed down, Royce chose his own path forward.

He established F. H. Royce & Co, initially producing small electrical appliances such as doorbells, lamps, fuses and switches. The business thrived, and was soon producing larger, more complex devices such as dynamos, electric motors and winches. In 1902, Royce supplied electric motors for Pritchett & Gold, a London-based battery-maker that had diversified into building electric cars (yes, there were already electric cars over 100 years ago).

Though Royce himself never built or owned an electric car, he created internal combustion engines with strong torque, silent running and smoothness… qualities which can also be found in electric powertrains.

Electrically-powered cars existed alongside cars with internal combustion engines during the early part of the 20th century. However, their extremely limited range and the absence of a charging infrastructure, as well as bulky batteries, made them less popular as time went on and the petrol and diesel engines became the default powerplants.

Charles Rolls owned an electric car

The other founder of Rolls-Royce, Charles Rolls, acquired an electric-powered car while still an engineering student at Cambridge. It was an American-made vehicle called The Columbia Electric Carriage, and described as a ‘City & Suburban’ car. That car made a strong impression on Rolls who said: “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration, and they should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged.  But for now, I do not anticipate that they will be very serviceable – at least for many years to come.”

Rolls made his own small contribution to solving the problem, by providing a battery-charging station at his car showroom for the private or rentable electric Broughams that were popular in London at the time. In 1904, he was to have become an agent for the Contal Electromobile electric car but after meeting Royce and seeing his new car, he didn’t go ahead with that venture.

Phantom Experimental Electric (102EX)

In the spirit of the founding figures, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars aims to be an electrification pioneer in the years to come. It has already been hard at work carrying out research and development for the new model. Some of its Ideas have already been shown to the world in concept models such as the Phantom Experimental Electric (EE), codenamed 102EX, of 2011. This was a fully operational and road-legal battery-electric car – never intended for production – but serving as a working test-bed for clients, VIPs, the media and enthusiasts to experience electric propulsion. Rolls-Royce designers and engineers spoke to all who tried the Phantom EE to help them in their work and understand Issues as well as expectations.

The car’s 6.75-litre V12 petrol engine and gearbox were replaced with a lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors mounted on the rear subframe, connected to a single-speed transmission with integrated differential.  This system gave a maximum power output of 290 kW and torque of 800 Nm, compared to 338 kW and maximum torque of 720 Nm for the V12 Phantom of the time.

VISION NEXT 100 (103EX)

The VISION NEXT 100 (103EX), presented in 2016, was a radically innovative concept car set out to define the marque’s long-term vision of luxury mobility. Its coachbuilt bodywork allowed clients to commission a car reflecting their personal vision and its size and scale – 5.9 metres long and 1.6 metres high – the car ensured a Grand Arrival on reaching its destination. The EX-suffix confirmed that 103EX was a purely experimental electric car. Following its debut in London, the car embarked on a 3-year world tour, returning to the factory in 2019.

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


Vehicles Damaged By Falling Trees In Selangor

According to reports online, several vehicles in Damansara Damai, Jalan Ipoh and Sungai Buloh were damaged by falling trees due to the downpours that have been occurring lately.

According to Selangor Fire and Rescue Department director Morni Mamat, 15 fallen trees were reported that affected six vehicles that were parked by the roadside.

He went on to mention that the incidents occurred at 4:19am on Tuesday (21/3) and personnel from the Sungai Buloh, Kota Anngerik, Damansara and Rawang fire and rescue stations had to be deployed to the scene.

This is another lesson in why we should be wary about where we park our cars. During these rainy season, it would be best to not park under trees or other objects that have a risk of damaging cars. Falling trees are not just the only problem but birds with stomach issues that tend to flock to the trees will affect the paint jobs of your car over the long run.

The only upside about this incident is that there were no casualties reported. This is why it is utterly important to
ensure that you include add-on coverage for your motor vehicle insurance policy.
 It does include additional charges but there are those add-ons that are worth getting rather than you burning a hole in your pocket when an incident like this occurs.


All-New Porsche GT3 Debuts in Malaysia – Prices Start from RM1.76 mil!

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the importer, distributor and custodian of the Porsche brand in Malaysia, today introduced the all-new Porsche GT3.

The GT3 can trace its roots back to back 1999 when Porsche needed a road going version of its race car for homologation purposes – and thus the GT3 was born.

Back then the GT3 offered the purest unadulterated driving experience a road car could offer. It was the closest a road driver could get to driving a race car.

Nothing has changed today as the GT3 is still hailed as the ultimate bridge between road and track.

Over seven editions later, the all-new GT3 offers one of the most advanced technologies available in a road legal race car.

It is lighter, faster and smarter and this results in a car that laps the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife a full 17-seconds faster than its predecessor.

In Malaysia, the all-new GT3 made its debut at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

At the heart of the GT3 lays a naturally-aspirated 4.0-litre, six-cylinder engine that features individual throttle bodies for each of its six-cylinders.

This is unusual for a road car, but quite normal for a race car. And that is because the engine of the all-new GT3 is actually based on the race based 911 GT3R.

As such the new GT3 is puts out an astonishing 507hp and 470Nm of torque. This takes the GT3 to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds and onto a top speed of 320km/h. Making the engine one of the most powerful naturally-aspirated engines ever produced.

As for the transmission, owners can choose between a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, or a 6-speed manual GT sports gearbox that is about 20kg lighter than the auto box.

The all-new GT3 seems to have perfected a seemingly perfect package.

It not only offers a race-derived engine, but also offers race-derived handling.

For example, the front suspension of the GT3 consist of a double-wishbone layout taken from the Le Mans-winning 911 RSR race car.

Then there is the new swan-neck rear wing mounting and diffuser than are also from the 911 RSR. This allows for 50% more downforce without increasing drag.

The all-new GT3 also features a manually-adjustable rear wing and diffuser elements that can be set to increase downforce by up to 150% for maximum cornering speed.

The best thing about the all-new GT3 is that it is available with a Touring Package at no additional cost.

The Touring Package rids the car of such dramatics as the swan-neck rear wing, and offers the same exterior paint work all over.

Porsche (and SDAP) says the new Touring Package “is perfectly suited to sports car connoisseurs with a passion for understatement and classic driving pleasure”.

And so it may ride the GT3 of that massive carbon-fibre rear wing, but in place of the fixed wing, the 911 GT3 gets an automatically extending rear spoiler which offers the necessary downforce at high speeds.

As for the interior, the GT3 benefits from a a design that is in-line with the current 992 generation but GT3-specific instrument cluster that features a central rev counter that goes up to 10,000rpm, and is flanked by two high-resolution 7-inch displays featuring a new track screen.

As with all other 992 generation 911 models, the all-new GT3 also gets a centred high-resolution 10.9-inch touchscreen display with the latest Porsche Communication Management system with only navigation and Porsche Connect Plus.

This also supports the Porsche Track Precision App that helps drivers maximise their track sessions and improve lap times by providing detailed driving data, including live displays and video analysis.

The all-new Porsche GT3 is now available at all Porsche centres nationwide with prices starting from a cool RM1,766,244 with SST exemption.


New SsangYong Torres appears on social media

SsangYong Motor Company (SMC) has been struggling with financial problems, but it has also been allowed to continue running its operations. This includes product development for its next generation of models and one of the new ones will be a SUV called Torres. Two pictures of a production model have now been shown on social media outside Korea.

The front of the Torres has a vertical radiator-style grille, a classic look for SUVs, while the rear tailgate continues this theme with a classic off-road appearance. Inside, there is the functional and rugged look that many SUVs are given as well as a dual centre display. The upper panel has a widescreen format for map displays, with the lower one appearing to be more for adjusting functions and features.

The name was inspired by the spectacular views of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, South America. The park was designated a World Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO in 1978 and is well known for its magnificent mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. The name this ‘embodies a sense of adventure, challenge, and escapism’, according to the Korean carmaker.

The Torres is the first model to reflect the brand’s new design philosophy ‘Powered by Toughness’, and is said to introduce a new segment in the SUV sector. The first teaser images of the exterior of the Torres  show a modern SUV style which uses some elements of earlier models.

“The SUV market continues to expand and subdivide, and with Torres, we are filling the gap between semi-medium-sized SUVs such as Korando and large SUVs like Rexton. This move will create an additional segment in the market and will open up new opportunities for us, especially as we further develop the product offering and continue to add value and originality,” said a spokesperson for SMC.

The Torres will soon go into production and customers who have booked vehicles since last month will be taking delivery during this quarter. For the European market, a BEV version (U100) will be introduced towards the end of 2023.

SsangYong shows sketches of future X200 SUV with new design philosophy


LOOKING BACK: The Alfa Romeo Alfasud

Unveiled in November 1971 at the Turin Motor Show, the Alfasud was a significant new model by Alfa Romeo. Although the Volkswagen Golf, which arrived a few years later, would continue to exist to this day, the Alfasud was essentially a single generation that never had a successor of the same name.

It was nevertheless a commercial success in its time, with over a million units sold worldwide between 1971 and 1989. Besides Italy, the Alfasud was also assembled in South Africa, Malta and also Malaysia.

Local assembly in Malaysia (at the Swedish Motor Assembly plant in Shah Alam) was due to the enthusiasm of City Motors, then the importer and distributor of the brand, particularly Datuk Dr. Foo Wan Kien.

An Alfasud advertisement in 1980 by City Motors, the Alfa Romeo distributor for Malaysia. The model, along with the Alfetta, was assembled at Swedish Motor Assemblies in Selangor.

The Alfasud appeared in Malaysian rallies, in the 1970s, probably one of the few places in the world where the model was used for such activity. On the right is Datuk Dr. Foo Wan Kien of City Motors whose enthusiasm for the Italian brand saw him getting distributorship and even starting the first ‘works’ racing team in Malaysia.

Advanced for an econobox of the 1970s
Though in what was then termed as the ‘econobox’ segment in the 1970s, the Alfasud was actually quite an advanced car, and it was Alfa Romeo’s first serious attempt at making a front-wheel drive car. It also had a water-cooled boxer engine which lowered the centre of gravity and disc brakes on all four wheels – those on the rear being uncommon then. Even the front brake discs were mounted inboard, to bring them closer to the gearbox and reduce unsprung mass for better handling.

It doesn’t help that not many are visible today because they literally ‘returned to the earth’, the rust problem having been so severe that it basically killed the product as well.

The Alfa Romeo factory in Pomogliano where the Alfasud was built. It is one of the facilities of the Stellantis Group today and makes the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet.

Why it was a ‘rust bucket’
So before we proceed further on the history of this car, let’s look at that dark part of the model’s story. The rust problem (which also affected Alfa Romeo’s image) was originally blamed on the poor quality of steel (or the raw materials) from Russia.

To this day, many still remember that as the main reason although it was disproved in 1977 when a team of engineers conducted an investigation into the matter.

What they found was that the rapid corrosion – which even started as the cars were being shipped – was not entirely due to the metal but due to the processes at the factory. It was a new factory in the south of Italy and the Alfasud was its first product. The workforce was not sufficiently experienced and worse, they went on strike very often.

The strikes caused disruptions in production, resulting in car bodies not being properly treated as some would remain in the ovens longer than necessary or in the electro-deposit tanks for inconsistent periods. This allowed condensation to form and as the bodies were not properly protected then, rust started easily and quickly. It did not help too that unfinished car bodies were left out in the open as the factory in Pomigliano was not far from the coast.

It was only after these findings that counter-measures were taken to address the problem. Industrial relations were also improved to reduce disruptions by strikes. But even though the cars from 1978 onwards did not have a serious corrosion problem, the damage was done to the model and the brand. ‘Rust bucket’ was a term that would forever be associated with the Alfasud, along with the other Alfa Romeo models.

Its rust bucket image aside, the Alfasud was technically innovative and also fun to drive, with dynamics that Italian cars were known for. Not only did it depart from traditional Alfa Romeo philosophy but It was an important project for the company as it was taking the brand into a high-volume segment that was increasingly competitive.

Debut of the Alfasud in 1971 at the Turin Motor Show.

Designed in a different era
The development team that was gathered in the late 1960s included Rudolf Hruska, an Austrian engineer who had worked at Porsche and Fiat earlier. Hruska was like Alec Issigonis (father of the Mini) and Ferdinand Porsche in that he was almost totally in control of the project. Back then, these chief engineers had much power and were less influenced by management pressures.

Hruska even controlled the styling which was done by Giorgetto Giugiaro and Aldo Mantovani of the still-young ItalDesign. Giugiaro would later recall that the engineer established precise measurements for the car and would not allow deviation. Furthermore, aerodynamics were also given priority, again having a strong influence on how the car looked.

Giugiaro had begun work on the Alfasud four years before its launch, with the first sketches having been presented in September 1967. The approach taken was that the designers looked at the occupants and their requirements and then created the car around them. It was an ‘inside-out’ approach which differed from the usual way of creating the shell and then fitting people inside.

Sprint coupe which had the biggest boxer engine (1.7 litres) in the Alfasud family.

The Sprint derivative
Giugiaro would later also style the derivative Sprint coupe, a sleek version that was initially associated with the Alfasud family when it came out in 1976. But after the Alfasud started to fade away, the company decided to just call it an Alfa Romeo Sprint (from 1983), the name having been taken from ‘
sprinta
’, the Italian word for ‘tuned’.

Total Sprint production would account for 121,434 units of the 1,015,153 units of Alfasud produced in 18 years.

Boxer engine
The first engine in the drivetrain was an 1186 cc boxer with four opposing cylinders and a single overhead camshaft on each side. It produced 63 ps/84 Nm which was more than enough to take it to a top speed of 152 km/h as it weighed just 830 kgs at the kerb.

The displacements would continue to grow over the years, with the chassis still able to handle the increasing power. The largest displacement (also a boxer engine) was 1.7 litres but only the Sprint got it while the Alfasud’s largest powerplant was 1.5 litres with an output of up to 105 ps.

Not a real hatchback initially
The Alfasud, though looking like a hatchback, was not really one originally as it did not have a tailgate like the Golf. It was actually a ‘sedan’ with a short and curved rear end, so it was never classified with the ’hot hatches’ of the 1970s.

Front-wheel drive allowed for compactness in overall body size and yet a surprising amount of interior space, more than the average in fact. The original 2-box, 4-door body was joined by a 3-door Giardinetta and then the sleek Sprint coupe which was reminiscent of the Alfetta GT.

3-door Giardinetta derivative on the Alfasud platform.

With the advent of the tailgate in 1981 and the 3-door/5-door bodystyles after 1981, the usability and load capacity of the boot were significantly improved. By then, the Alfasud covered a broader cross-section of the market than any Alfa Romeo had covered before.

Though, as mentioned earlier, the Sprint continued until 1989, the Alfasud story came to an end in 1984. Its successor, the Alfa 33 would not enjoy the same success and financial problems would limit the company’s progress until it was taken into the Fiat empire.

Thus, from a commercial perspective, the Alfasud could be considered as Alfa Romeo’s last success. It was born in a different era in the industry, one where engineers and designers had more freedom to be creative and innovative, and numbers were not all that mattered.

LOOKING BACK: Alfa Romeo’s long history with the Italian police force


Daihatsu Copen to be sold as Copen GR Sport in Japan, from RM92,000

Fans of the Japanese
kei
-cars will be familiar with the Daihatsu Copen, a compact model like a miniaturised roadster. Like the Suzuki Cappuccino, it was mainly for the Japanese domestic market although there were exports. The original Copen was on sale from 2002 to 2012 and then there was a lapse of 2 years before the second generation appeared in 2014. There was a rumour that, some years back, Perodua had asked Daihatsu to consider selling it in Malaysia but it was probably not feasible from the volume point of view (especially if it was a CBU import subjected to high taxes).

Daihatsu Copen

First ‘GR’ developed sportscar

The second generation continues to be on sale but now Toyota has adopted the model and got TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to further develop it. It is the first sportscar that is ‘GR’ developed, drawing on the knowledge and experience gained through TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s motor sports activities.

The move is probably with strong ‘guidance’ from Toyota President, Akio Toyoda, who must like the little 2-seater convertible sportscar. Ever since becoming President, he has been trying hard to rekindle the passion for cars among the younger generation.  So a car like the Copen GR Sport, as the model will be known, might attract interest, especially with a pricetag that starts (in Japan) from 2,380,000 yen (around RM92,000).

Enhanced driving dynamics

Toyota does not make minivehicles, leaving that segment to Daihatsu, so it has nothing like the Copen GR Sport in its line-up. But more importantly, its driving dynamics have been enhanced by Toyota GAZOO Racing so it would be even more appealing and satisfying to the enthusiast driver.

Specifically, development has focused on body rigidity and suspension tuning. Optimal body rigidity balance has been achieved by adding the front brace and changing the shape of the centre brace. The suspension spring rate was optimized for the body rigidity, requiring time and effort and in combination with a dedicated shock absorber, a smooth ride with supple movement, and the feeling of the tyres gripping the ground was pursued. The BBS forged-aluminium wheels are exclusively designed for the Copen GR Sport.

In addition, the electric power steering is specially tuned for the Copen GR Sport, taking into account its size and weight (980 kgs). The aim of the engineers has been ‘ to offer the pleasure of being able to use the engine power to the max because it is a minivehicle, and the superior comfort of controlling the vehicle at will, which is like a lightweight sportscar in everyday life’.

The engine is the same type as in the Daihatsu Copen, a 660 cc 3-cylinder long-stroke unit powering the front wheels. With turbocharging and an intercooler, the power output is 64 ps/92 Nm and customers can choose to have a 5-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed CVT.

Design prioritizes functionality

The front face uses the ‘Functional MATRIX’ grille, which is the GR icon, with horizontal and vertical elements key to the design. A large opening lower grille contributes to improved cooling performance and an under-spoiler-shaped front bumper contributes to improved driving performance while emphasizing the low centre of gravity and wide and low styling. Aerodynamic performance was improved by rectifying the air by extending the bumper side and setting the front bumper air outlet.

The interior (only available in black) features special Recaro seats and dedicated self-lighting triple meters. A special piano black-toned decorative centre cluster creates a sophisticated atmosphere. In addition, the powered Active Top roof is standard equipment so every owner can enjoy topless motoring.

As a GR model, the Copen GR Sport will obviously be at Toyota dealerships in Japan with the GR Garage, a retail feature intended to create a regular ‘hangout’  for sportscar enthusiasts and car fans. Outside Japan, the only country that currently has such a concept is Malaysia, so it is possible that we will see the Copen GR Sport alongside the new Supra.

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


GENTARI To Provide Clean, Green New Energy Mobility Solutions

GENTARI Sdn Bhd, which was established in June this year, had its official launch by the Prime Minister recently, raising its presence among Malaysians. The company, formerly known as PETRONAS Gas & New Energy Sdn Bhd, aims to become a one-stop integrated clean energy solutions provider, beginning with a suite of renewable energy, hydrogen and green mobility solutions for commercial, industrial, and retail applications.

Having begun operations earlier under its old name, GENTARI has already embarked upon a series of initiatives and collaborations in its mission to rank amongst the world’s leading clean energy companies. Guided by the Net Zero Carbon Emission 2050 goals of PETRONAS, it has set a course to ensure that PETRONAS continues to evolve as a cleaner and renewable energy provider, while supporting the energy transition.

GENTARI aims to differentiate itself from the competition through an integrated model, which seeks to fulfil multiple aspects of each customer’s needs through a portfolio of net zero solutions that cut across the electron value chain, by partnering them to remove hurdles in the journey towards net zero.

While it will secure support from PETRONAS during its growth phase, GENTARI will operate as an independently managed entity and will seek financing opportunities to accelerate its growth in order to both meet existing demands and explore emerging energy technologies.

“Since our announcement earlier this year, GENTARI has been making steady progress in its efforts to supply lower carbon energy and help its customers both in Malaysia and beyond to reduce their carbon emissions. This was delivered by providing affordable and accessible solutions and systems, enabled by scale of production and infrastructure. As we work towards realizing GENTARI’s aspirations, we also hope to significantly contribute towards national renewable energy goals by helping our local customers transition to cleaner energy sources,” said the Chairman of GENTARI, Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik.

Besides supporting PETRONAS’ commitment to Malaysia’s own Green House Gas emission reduction agenda, GENTARI will also help to achieve the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021-2025) targets. These require 31% of the country’s total installed energy capacity to be renewable by 2025, while the Malaysia Renewable Energy Roadmap has the target of 40% renewable energy by 2035.

GENTARI’s suite of renewable energy, hydrogen and green mobility solutions will be applied locally and internationally. In Renewable Energy, GENTARI will build an overall energy capacity of 30-40 GW in key markets by 2030, through utility-scale projects across solar, onshore and offshore wind, and battery storage, targeting commercial, industrial, and retail customers. To date, GENTARI already has 1.1 GWp of renewable energy capacity in operations and under development globally.

GENTARI is also playing a critical role in PETRONAS’ decarbonisation efforts groupwide, which include Malaysia’s largest single solar rooftop installation (7.4 MWp) recently at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, and solar rooftop installations currently underway at some 60 PETRONAS stations.

For Hydrogen, GENTARI aims to offer cost-competitive low carbon hydrogen solutions via a comprehensive global supply network for both export and domestic demand, with an aspiration to produce up to 1.2 mtpa of clean hydrogen by 2030.

This segment will target industrial, power and transportation customers, particularly the early adopters. To date, GENTARI has already signed 12 Memoranda of Understanding with international partners for project development in Malaysia, India and the Middle East as well as customers in East Asia, covering initiatives to explore the development of green hydrogen projects and its transportation, advocacy on policy and regulations to support the hydrogen industry, and studies on a low-carbon ammonia supply chain, amongst others.

GENTARI’s Green Mobility commitments include supporting the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem by capturing a 10% market share. To deliver this, it is estimated GENTARI will need to set 25,000 public charging points across key markets in Asia Pacific by 2030, with a mid-term target of up to 9,000 public charging points by 2026, anchoring its presence in Malaysia and India. It is also offering Vehicle-as-a-Service (VaaS) solutions starting with Light-duty Electric Vehicles, as well as value-added services such as digital platforms, data analytics and advertising.

Currently, GENTARI has already installed more than 190 charging points, and delivered a mix of over 250 electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers as part of its green mobility fleet in India and Malaysia. Through the VaaS offering in India, GENTARI has achieved 1,000,000 clean kilometres, equivalent to 83.4 tonnes of CO
2
 emissions reduction.

In supporting PETRONAS’ groupwide decarbonisation efforts through an integrated model, GENTARI has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with PETRONAS Refinery and Petrochemical Corporation Sdn Bhd to collaborate on introducing a Zero Emissions vehicle fleet supported by EV charging points, and exploring the potential for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles at the Pengerang Integrated Complex, one of the biggest integrated petrochemical facilities in the region.

Free sunshine helps Proton save up to RM5.85 million on electricity costs


Tokyo Motor Show To Become Japan Mobility Show In 2023

2020 could be considered a watershed year for the big global motor shows. Though the declining interest from the auto industry was slowly showing during the past decade, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and suspension of public activities for many months led carmakers to rethink how they would spend money on promotional activities.

Launching new products online, less common before, was an approach adopted by many carmakers. They could reach bigger global audiences and at less cost than the traditional high-cost events at motorshows. The need to spend big money on a one-time extravaganza became less necessary, and this meant that organisers of the big motorshows needed to change.

While some continue with a generally traditional approach, the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) which has been organising the Tokyo Motor Show for many decades has decided to have a broader scope for the event.

Rather than being just a motorshow involving only carmakers and suppliers to the auto industry, the event in 2023 will look beyond the framework of mobility. Accordingly, exhibitors from other industries as well as start-ups will be invited to participate and these could be directly or indirectly related to mobility. To reflect the changed ‘Tokyo Motor Show’, the name will become the Japan Mobility Show 2023’.

JAMA’s move to broaden the scope of its event is not unlike what has happened with the (CES) (Computer Electronics Show) where from just being a trade show for the tech industry, it has come to include automotive products and carmakers are even unveiling new models or concepts there.

Held annually in its first 20 years, and then every two years from 1973 onwards, the Tokyo Motor Show has been one of the global motorshows. Its floor area grew from 15,000 square metres in its first year in a park, to over 211,000 square metres when it was at the huge Makuhari Messe complex near Tokyo Disneyland.

First Tokyo Motor Show was held in a park in 1954.

Even in its first year, there were over 250 vehicles displayed, with the highest number being around 1,000 vehicles in 1985. In 1995, it had the highest number of companies participating (361) but in the years that followed, the number began to fall gradually.

By the 2011 event, in view of the reduced number of exhibitors, the organizers made the decision to move to a smaller site at Tokyo Big Sight along Tokyo Bay. As for visitor numbers, the highest was about 2 million in 1991. The 2019 show seemed to show interest renewing in the event as 1.3 million people attended, 69% more than the 2017 event.

Tokyo Big Sight has been just right for the downsized event but with the expanded scope, the organisers are considering expanding the event to the Rinkai Fukutoshin area and areas near Tokyo Big Sight.

The Tokyo Big Sight complex next to the Tokyo Bay.

There will be activities in collaboration with the Tokyo Auto Salon and the Japan Supercar Association, as well as ‘kids content’ for the younger generation and their families to enjoy. More about the planned exhibits and activities should be available in coming months leading up to the show which will be held from October 26 to November 5, 2023.

2023 Geneva International Motor Show To Be Held In… Doha!


Road-legal Lamborghini Huracan STO draws on motorsport heritage

The Huracan Super Trofeo EVO that is run in Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s one-make race series is now replicated as a road-homologated super sportscar in the new Huracan STO. Priced from 249,412 euros (about RM1.21 million), first deliveries will start in early 2021.

“The Huracan STO is the purest incarnation of Lamborghini Squadra Corse heritage, directly transferring technologies from the Huracan Super Trofeo EVO and drawing on the Huracan GT3 EVO’s unique accomplishment of winning three consecutive times in the Daytona 24 hours,” said Automobili Lamborghini’s new Chairman & CEO, Stefano Domenicali.

“The Huracan STO delivers all the excitement of a beautifully balanced, lightweight and aerodynamically superior super sportscar, mirroring the driving feeling and exhilaration of Super Trofeo, and perfectly set up for the world’s most demanding tracks but created for the road. The extensive technical solutions and intelligence gained from both our Super Trofeo and GT3 programs has been refined and embodied in the Huracán STO, allowing the pilot to experience the emotions of a racing driver, daily, in a road-legal Lamborghini super sportscar able to take lap records,” added Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer.

Aerodynamic superiority

The Huracan STO has an entirely new exterior design, revising the familiar Lamborghini profile to optimize airflow. Inspired by the racing cars, the Huracan STO reflects the technology transfer in every aesthetic detail.

Every aspect of the design draws on the aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight technologies demanded in motorsports. While the Centro Stile department focussed on aesthetic excellence, Lamborghini’s R&D and Squadra Corse departments optimized the car to ensure the best driving performance.

The bonnet, fenders and the front bumper are a single unit referred to as the ‘cofango’ (a combination of the Italian words for bonnet and gender – cofano and parafango). Inspired by the Miura and more recent Sesto Elemento, it is not only lightweight but also a time-saving access feature in motorsports.

New air ducts on the front bonnet increase airflow through the central radiator to improve engine cooling as well as helping generate downforce. The cofango also incorporates a new front splitter, directing airflow to the newly designed underbody of the car and to the rear diffuser.

The cofango is shaped to push the airflow on top of the front fenders, which incorporate louvres to maximize airflow exiting from the wheelhouse, reducing pressure inside and increasing the front downforce. The side profile of the cofango directs airflow around the front wheels, reducing drag.

NACA air intake

A new rear fender derived from the Super Trofeo EVO achieves both reduction of the front area of the car and consequently the drag, while increasing rear downforce and the car’s overall aerodynamic efficiency. A NACA air intake integrated into the STO’s rear fender serves as an engine air intake, with the shortened duct allowing a 30% decrease in static pressure losses.

The revised rear cover design features an integrated air scoop to improve air-cooling at the rear compartment. Dedicated air deflectors, integrated in the rear bonnet’s frame, manage the significant incoming airflow from the snorkel according to the temperature regulation needs of the engine and exhaust outlet.

An integrated ‘shark fin’ on the rear panel improves the dynamic abilities of the STO, particularly when cornering. In such conditions, the incoming airflow has a yaw angle, and the different pressure levels generated by the two sides of the fin create a positive effect on yaw stability. The fin also helps straighten airflow onto the wing, increasing wing efficiency during cornering.

Adjustable rear wing

A manual, easily adjusted aero set-up of the new rear wing optimizes aerodynamic balance and drag resistance according to track characteristics. A single slotted wing with double airfoil allows the front part of the airfoil to rotate into three positions to enhance rear downforce. The aero balance of the car can be varied by 13% to adapting to different driving styles and conditions.

The new front brake cooling ducts are dedicated to cooling the discs and calipers of the new CCM-R brakes, working in conjunction with the cofango air-louvres that extract hot air from the front wheelhouses. Additional air intakes including on the underbody, and optimized nolders, are located at the rear.

All the efforts have given the Huracan STO the highest level of downforce in its class. Overall airflow efficiency is improved by 37% and a significant downforce increase of 53% is reached over the Huracan Performante.

Lightweight approach

The Huracan STO uses carbonfibre in more than 75% of its exterior panels, benefiting from complex structures produced as a single component for increased integrity while also reducing weight via less fixing points.

The lightweight technologies include a carbonfibre ‘sandwich’ technique utilized in the aerospace industry. Thanks to this technology, 25% less carbonfibre material is used while maintaining the same structural rigidity. With a dry weight of 1,339 kgs, the Huracan STO’s weight is reduced by 43 kgs compared to the already lightweight Huracan Performante.

Contributing to the weight reductions are a windscreen 20% lighter than the Huracan Performante, and magnesium rims. The rims are fitted with bespoke Bridgestone Potenza tyres, available in two versions: one road-focused, the other more track-oriented.

Squadra Corse at its heart

The V10 naturally aspirated engine of the Huracán EVO and Super Trofeo produces 640 bhp/565 Nm.  It has been calibrated for a very sporty and responsive racing feel, with a direct pedal-to-throttle feeling and improved engine sound sharpness at high revs. The gearchange speed has been further increased to provide a highly responsive and rapid gearshift.

With an increased wheel track, stiffer suspension bushing, specific anti-roll bars and Lamborghini’s MagneRide 2.0, rear-wheel steering, and a more direct and fixed steering ratio, this car has been designed for a race environment.

With a weight to power ratio of 2.09 kgs/bhp, claimed acceleration from 0 – 100km/h is 3 seconds with braking from 100 km/h – 0 in 30 metres. On a road where speed limits are non-existent, the driver will be able to take it up as high as 310 km/h, it is claimed.

Interior designed for purpose

The interior of the Huracan STO reflects the lightweight persona of the exterior, as evident in the extensive use of carbonfibre features throughout the cockpit, including the sport seats. Even the  carpets are removed and replaced by floor mats in carbonfibre, and the fully carbonfibre lightweight door panels use the door latch as an opener.

New Human-Machine Interface (HMI) graphics feature on the touchscreen where the driver can easily manage the car’s functions. A fully connected telemetry system allows drivers on racetracks to monitor and record their performance and to analyze the data via the Lamborghini UNICA app.

As with every Lamborghini, customers can fully personalize both the exterior and interior via the Ad Personam personalization program. Virtually  limitless paint and trim combinations as well as race-style vinyls allow for personalized livery. An example as shown in the pictures of the launch car has Blu Laufey and Arancio California which emphasises the Huracan STO’s young and sporty racing spirit.

Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 to deliver ‘purest track experience’


Ford vying for second consecutive victory at Le Mans

Ford is preparing to defend its  Le Mans 24 Hours title with the same four entries in this year’s race. These four factory backed Ford Chip Ganassi Racing Ford GT cars will be tasked with bringing home a second consecutive title following its 1st and 3rd place finish in last year’s race.

The last time Ford dominated this competition was in the mid 1960s when the automaker managed to bag the Le Mans title four times on the trot from 1966 to 1968. Like the GT40 before it, the current generation Ford GT has proved successful at winning races all over the world with entries in the FIA World Endurance Championship, WeatherTech SportsCar Championship as well as a number of others.

Speaking of the car, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company, said, “The Ford GT represents the very best of Ford and our drive for excellence in all that we do. To come to Le Mans last year and win the GTE Pro Class was a huge source of pride for all our employees globally. It shows how, when you pull together, you can achieve remarkable things. We are excited to return to Le Mans to defend our title.”

One major blow to the team’s morale will be the absence of Sebatien Bourdais who was part of the three-driver team that led the #68 Ford GT to last year’s Le Mans victory. Bourdais will miss the event due to an injury that he sustained in an accident during the qualifying round of the Indianapolis 500. Tony Kanaan will serve as his replacement for this particular race and will partner the remaining two drivers, Joey Hand and Dirk Muller and attempt to repeat last year’s feat.

The Blue Oval’s three driver team for the #69 Ford GT that finished third last year, remains unchanged. Ryan Briscoe, Rhichard Westbrook and Scott Dixon will have high hopes of making it a Ford 1-2 this time instead of the previous year’s 1-3 finish. In ten days time, all four teams of drivers will be vying to replicate the success of Ford’s glory days with a a complete sweep of the podium positions, but we are sure that the Italian and German heavyweights aren’t going to make it easy for them.


First Mercedes-Benz fully-electric premium MPV to make public debut next month

Mercedes-Benz is wasting no time building up its EQ range of fully-electric models. Following the launch of the EQC SUV at the 2018 Paris Motorshow, it will unveil its first fully-electric premium MPV at the Frankfurt Motorshow next month. The new EQV is based on the Concept EQV that was presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March this year.

“Our MPVs meet the highest standards in terms of functionality and variability. The EQV also does not compromise in this respect. It offers comfortable handling, dynamic electro-aesthetics, intuitive operation and generous space – and all locally emissions-free. This means that it offers all of the typical qualities of the brand and segment that our customers expect, whether as a family car or a shuttle vehicle with a lounge-like character”, says Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans.

150 kW drivetrain, 405 kms range

The electric drivetrain (eATS) of the EQV is situated on the front axle under the front end with a charging connection in the bumper. It has a peak output of 150 kW which can take the MPV up to a claimed maximum speed of 160 km/h. It has a claimed range of 405 kms and with rapid charging, the high-voltage battery pack can be ‘refuelled’ from 10% to 80% within less than an hour.

The electric motor, the transmission with a fixed gear ratio, the cooling system and the power electronics constitute a highly integrated, compact unit. Power is provided by a 90 kWh lithium-ion battery pack under the floor of the vehicle. Its low, central location also has a positive effect on the handling characteristics of the EQV.

Battery pack is constantly recharged

As standard, the EQV will be equipped with a water-cooled on-board charger with a capacity of 11 kW, making it suitable for AC charging at home or at public charging stations. To ensure that the technical operating range is used to the maximum, the EQV also charges its batteries when on the move. When accelerating or braking, the mechanical rotation is converted into electrical energy and used to charge the high-voltage battery (recuperation).

The driver has a major influence on recuperation. He or she is also able to influence the recuperation level using paddles behind the steering wheel. The paddle on the left increases the level of recuperation, the paddle on the right reduces it. At the weakest level, the vehicle ‘coasts’ while at the strongest level, it is possible to drive using a single pedal. This is because, in most situations, the slowing effect of recuperation is sufficient to make the brake pedal redundant.

The recuperation level D Auto reflects the intelligence of the EQV. The automatically activated ECO Assistant helps the driver to achieve the best possible efficiency. It combines navigation data, road traffic sign recognition and information provided by the intelligent safety assistance systems (radar and camera) and adjusts the level of recuperation itself.

In combination with EQ-optimised navigation, active range monitoring ensures that the driver reaches the destination safely even if a charging stop is missed. It is also assisted by the E+ driving mode, which optimises the vehicle’s parameters to maximise the range.

Flexible seating for 6 to 8 persons

For flexibility, the EQV will be offered with two different wheelbase dimensions. It can be configured as a 6-seater with individual seats for high-quality transportation, or converted into a 7 or even an 8-seater to serve as a shuttle.

The refinement of MBUX (the Mercedes-Benz user interface) specifically for EQ is a particular highlight. In the high-resolution, 10-inch media display, the EQ tile in the main menu serves as a central point of access to the specific displays and settings. These include the charging current, departure time, energy flow and consumption histogram. EQV drivers can plan their destinations from the home or office, enter a departure time and bring the interior to the desired temperature.

The EQV will be produced at a factory in northern Spain where the V-Class and Vito models are also made. This facilitates flexible and synergetic production in direct correlation with customer demand globally.

Click here for other news and articles about Mercedes-Benz on PISTON.MY


Audi urbansphere concept shows what the luxury MPV of the future could be like

The third of Audi’s ‘sphere’ concept cars showing its idea of premium electric vehicles in future in three different segments has been unveiled today: the Audi urbansphere. Where the 2021
skysphere
 was a roadster GT concept and the
grandsphere
 that followed was a luxury sedan, the urbansphere takes the form of an MPV.

urbansphere

skysphere

grandsphere

‘Co-created’ with Chinese customers

Designed by teams in China and Germany, the urbansphere has been conceived with Chinese customers involvement as well. For the first time, potential customers in China could also take part in the development process, contributing their own perspectives as part of a process known as ‘co-creation’. “In order to meet the demands of our Chinese customers, Audi’s design studios in Beijing and Ingolstadt worked together closely to jointly develop the Audi urbansphere concept car,” said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Audi Board of Management and responsible for the Chinese market.

It is the largest model in the sphere family and even of all Audi concept cars to date, measuring 5510 mm in length, 2010 mm in width and 1780 mm tall. The silhouette of the body features traditional Audi shapes and elements, combined to create a new composition featuring the signature Singleframe. The implied wedge shape of the vehicle body is emphasized by the large, flat windscreen.

At the front, the Audi Singleframe is shaped like a large octagon. Even though the grille has lost its original function as an air intake because this is an electric vehicle, it still remains prominent as an unmistakable signature of the brand. The digital light surface lies behind a slightly tinted, transparent visor that covers a large area of the front.

The 3-dimensional light structure itself is arranged in dynamically condensed pixel areas. The upper and lower edges of the Singleframe are still made of aluminium and the vertical connections are formed by LEDs as part of the light surface. The lighting units to the right and left of the Singleframe look narrow, like focused eyes.

These digital lighting units, known as ‘Audi Eyes’, echo the brand’s four rings as they enlarge and isolate the intersection of two rings to form a pupil – a new, unmistakable digital light signature. The illuminated surfaces – and therefore the expression of the ‘eyes’ – can be adapted to the traffic situation, environment, or even the mood of the passengers. As a daytime running light, the gaze can be focused or open, and the ‘iris’ can be narrow or wide. A digitally created ‘eyebrow’ also functions as a dynamic turn signal when required.

MPV of the future?

Though it may be considered an MPV by today’s definition, Audi feels that the urbansphere defies classification into conventional vehicle categories. The monolithic design shares commonalities with the other two concept cars, as do the sculpted, soft shape of the wheelarches. Despite the stately proportions, elegance, dynamism, and an organic design language should come to mind.

‘Third living space’

The 3.4-metre long wheelbase allows a spacious interior designed as a lounge on wheels, serving as a third living space during the time spent on the roads of densely populated cities like Beijing. It can also have a role as a mobile office in which occupants can have meetings or work while moving around. Four individual seats in two rows offer first-class comfort and the seating can also cater to passengers’ changing social needs in a variety of ways.

The interior of the urbansphere is not subject to the dimensional constraints nor limited by the physics of driving. The interior designers had what is the largest interior space in an Audi vehicle to date to prioritize occupant comfort. To this end, it can be a mobile interactive space that provides a gateway to a wider digital ecosystem.

“To make e-mobility even more attractive, we think about it holistically and from the customer’s needs,” said Duesmann. “More than ever before, it is not just the product that is decisive, but the entire ecosystem. That is why Audi is creating a comprehensive ecosystem with services for the entire car. The Audi urbansphere concept offers everyone onboard a wide range of options to use that freedom to provide a highly-personalized in-car experience: communication or relaxation, work or withdrawal into a private sphere as desired. As such, it transforms from being strictly an automobile into an ‘experience device’.“

Customized infotainment offerings are available, such as the seamless integration of onboard music and video streaming services. There is a large-format and transparent OLED screen that pivots vertically from the roof area into the zone between the rows of seats. Using this ‘cinema screen’, which occupies the entire width of the interior, the two passengers in the back row can take part in a video conference together or watch a movie.

Wellness zone, suggested by Chinese customers

The urbansphere also qualifies as a wellness zone, thanks to digital options that emerged in no small part through input from the co-creation process with Chinese customers. Stress detection is a prime example – this adaptive program uses facial scans and voice analysis to determine how passengers are feeling and offers personalized suggestions for relaxation, for example with a meditation app that can be used via the personal screen and the private sound zone in the headrests.

Many of the materials in the interior, such as the hornbeam veneers, come from sustainable sources. This choice of material makes it possible to use wood that has grown close to the site, and the entire trunk can be utilized. No chemicals are used during the manufacturing process.

Audi Light Umbrella

As a special tribute to China, the designers provide a luminous accessory that passengers can take with them when they leave the urbansphere – the Audi Light Umbrella. This self-illuminating umbrella inspired by traditional Chinese umbrellas acts as a protective companion and multifunctional light source. The inner skin is made of reflective material, so the entire surface acts as a glare-free lighting unit.

Because the urbansphere has level 4 autonomous technology which frees its occupants of the need to be directly involved in its operation, it can pick up passengers at their home or office and independently takes care of finding a parking space and charging the battery.

Premium Platform Electric

The urbansphere is a concept and design study so much of what it shows are proposals for the future. However, the Premium Platform Electric or PPE is something that is already in use by Audi and Porsche. It has been specifically designed for battery-electric drive systems and the is a battery module between the axles. Audi has succeeded in achieving a flat layout for the battery module by using almost the entire base of the vehicle between the axles.

The battery module can store around 120 kWh of energy to power 2 electric motors capable of delivering a total system output of 295 kW/690 Nm. There is one electric motor on each of the front and rear axles which, by means of electronic coordination, implements the permanently available all-wheel drive as required. The motor on the front axle can be deactivated as required in order to reduce friction and thus energy consumption when coasting.

The powertrain has 800V charging technology which will make it possible for recharging with up to 270 kW at fast-charging stations in the shortest possible time. This will enable charging times to approach those of a conventional stop to refuel a car powered by a combustion engine. Just 10 minutes would be enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to cover more than 300 kms. Audi expects that a fully charge battery module would be able to provide a range of up to 750 kms, even when used for more energy-intensive city and short-distance trips.

“These concept vehicles embody our brand strategy. They show how we imagine the near future of premium mobility,” said Henrik Wenders, Senior Vice-President of the Audi brand. For him, the future is a design space to offer people new experiences in ‘spheres’ during their journey.

Audi Charging Hub concept could be refuelling station of the future


RN22e concept shows how Hyundai N will ensure high performance in fully electric cars

Hyundai will launch its first all-electric high-performance model in 2023. This will be based on the
IONIQ 5
 and is currently being developed by the carmaker’s N high-performance division. For the development work, the engineers are using two high-performance concept cars — the RN22e and N Vision 74 – as ‘rolling laboratories’.

Hyundai Motor’s ‘rolling labs’ are where it tests and verifies the company’s advanced technologies to apply them to future production models. In this case, a lot of work is being done on electrification and how to provide models with the type of performance the N brand is known for.

Adapt from IONIQ 6

The RN22e, which possesses track-ready performance, uses the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP and a design based on the
IONIQ 6 Electric Streamliner.
 As Hyundai N’s first rolling lab based on the E-GMP, the RN22e shows the N brand’s vision and direction in an electrified future. The concept received its designation because it is the rolling lab of N brand developed in 2022 and is an EV performance.

Testing of the RN22e focusses on the brand’s three performance pillars. These start with ‘corner rascal’, a cornering capability since the brand launch that makes use of e-LSD, Corner Carving Differential for most N models. The RN22e enhances the ‘corner carving’ feel with heavier weighting  by exploiting torque vectoring. 3D-printed parts reduce weight and keep the rigidity high for better handling. With AWD, there is optimized torque distribution whatever the drive mode and the driver can customise the amount of torque going to the front and rear wheels.

Enhancing racetrack capability

To enhance the RN22e’s racetrack capability, the N engineers focused on cooling and braking endurance. Track-optimized settings let drivers go to the limit with 4-piston monobloc calipers and 400-mm hybrid discs to ensure plenty of stopping power is available. In addition, the engineers will use the RN22e to study how to deliver dynamic movement with regenerative braking that can precisely controls yaw and corner attack. Once verified, the new state-of-the-art technologies can be transferred to N production models.

Hyundai N Sound+

Sound is also part of the emotional driving experience – but electrified models don’t have the type of sound that excites enthusiasts. So the RN22e has N Sound+ which generates sound from speakers inside and outside the car. In addition, the N e-shift integrates the vibration and shifting feel with N Sound+.

By adapting the IONIQ 6’s streamliner design, the RN22e will leverage on the new EV’s aerodynamic features. In order to maximize the performance, Hyundai N added motorsport-inspired details that add visual dynamism and also improve cooling performance and aerodynamics.

The Story of N – Hyundai N (w/VIDEO)


F1/Round 2: Preview and Starting Grid for 2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Race starts in Jeddah at 8 pm/1 am (Monday) in Malaysia

While the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 caused cancellations and rescheduling of the rounds of Formula 1 World Championship, there have been many other times when certain rounds have not been run in the past. However, they were not due to conflicts or political issues in the host country, with the exception of the 2011 Bahrain Grand Prix which was cancelled when anti-government protests (inspired by the ‘Arab Spring’) led to concerns about security for the F1 participants.

This year, the conflict in Ukraine has seen the termination – not just cancellation – of the
Russian Grand Prix
 in Sochi by Formula 1 as a response to the invasion of Ukraine. Yesterday, the second round of the 2022 championship in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was also the subject of security and safety concerns after an Aramco oil storage facility just 11 kms from the circuit was attacked by Yemen’s Houthis. However, after much discussion with government agencies and the teams, it was announced that the race would go on as there were sufficient assurances of protection.

“We have received total assurance that the country’s safety is first,” said Formula One CEO, Stefano Domenicali. “So they have in place all the systems to protect this area, the city, the places where we are going. So we feel confident and we have to trust the local authority in that respect.”

“The attacks had targeted economic infrastructure and not civilians. We have the assurance from a high level that this is a secure place, the whole thing will be secure and let’s go on racing,” added FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

This second round of the 2022 championship is the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and it is the second time the event is being run at Jeddah where the 6.174-km long Corniche Street Circuit has been created. Like the Bahrain round last weekend, this 50-lap race will be run after sunset with over 600 lights providing illumination (connected by 200,000 metres of cable and fibreoptic lines).

Very fast circuit

The young circuit has proven to be one of F1’s fastest circuits (and it also has the most corners this year). At an average speed of 253.9 km/h, Lewis Hamilton’s pole lap last year is second on the current calendar, behind Monza. It trails the Italian track, Silverstone (pre-2010 layout) and the Osterreichring in the all-time list.

A number of revisions have been made, mainly at improving the sight-lines for the drivers. This has been done by moving the barriers further back. The track at the final Turn 27 has been widened to 12 metres, and that could mean a quicker lap time than last year.

However, as will be the case at every track this year, the redesigned cars for 2022 will require understanding of the new demands. With the walls close and the stakes high, judgment and precision will be key factors for victory.

Haas F1’s Mick Schumacher was going flat out in the second qualifying session and crashed into the wall at Turn 12. He was conscious when extracted from the car and taken to hospital.

Cornering speeds and gears used by the Mercedes-AMG W13 racing cars for the 27 corners of the circuit.

“The Jeddah circuit marks a completely different challenge compared to the opening Grand Prix in Bahrain due to the diverse track characteristics, both in terms of layout and asphalt. Drivers will also use a softer range of compounds this weekend to cope with the specific demands of the track, which is nearly as quick as Monza. The teams have no experience of these tyres and cars on the circuit, and conditions could be somewhat different from last time in Saudi Arabia just 4 months ago – with the race now being held at a different time of year and a few track modifications in store,” said Pirelli’s Motorsport Director, Mario Isola.

Brembo supplies all teams

The Brembo Group is supplying all the teams with its calipers, the first time since 1975. All 20 cars will have new nickel-plated and machined from billet 6-piston calipers, the maximum number allowed by the regulations. Five of the teams will also use by-wore units to manage rear braking, allowing balancing of braking forces between front and rear wheels.

Brembo engineers have also worked with each team to customize many of the brake systems because each racing car is set up differently. Some teams opt for lighter and less rigid calipers, while others choose stiffer, heavier set-ups; so the weight/stiffness ratio has to be optimized for each brake caliper. In-wheel sensors keep the team’s engineers informed of the disc and caliper temperatures at all times so they and the drivers can regulate and optimize braking performance.

Some of the new regulations have affected brake disc design. Until 2021, discs could be pierced with up to 1,480 holes of 2.5 mm diameter. This year, the requirements allow for between 1,000 and 1,100 holes at the front and around 900 at the back, compared with 1,050 holes previously. The updated rules also impose a new minimum diameter of 3 mm. This means that while disc thickness stays the same, there will be fewer and larger holes, reducing cooling ability.

Perforated brake pads have also been banned this season, so Brembo is offering teams a choice of two alternative configurations. In terms of weight, the 2022 braking system is around 700 gms heavier per wheel, adding almost 3 kgs to the total weight of cars compared to last season.

Changing dominance?

The new era of F1 has already lived up to expectations that the dominance of Mercedes-AMG and Red Bull Racing can be challenged by others, and Ferrari’s victory in the first round showed this. While the reigning champions Mercedes-AMG will be looking to do better than third (and not from the misfortune of others), Red Bull Racing has revealed that the sudden power failures to both its cars in the closing laps was because of a fault in fuel delivery which they do not expect to happen again.

Haas F1 had a surprising performance without Nikita Mazepin around (not that he contributed any points last year) as Kevin Magnussen finished fifth, and Mick Schumacher was just one position short of the top 10 finishers. George Russell also did well in his first official drive with the Mercedes-AMG team (second if you include the stand-in drive last year), while the tenth placing by newcomer
Zhou GuanYu
 was commendable for his very first F1 race.


2021 Porsche Cayenne enhanced with new Premium Package

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) has enhanced its Porsche Cayenne offering with a new Premium Package which provides additional options as standard. These include options that enhance performance and also comfort and motoring enjoyment.

On the technical side is air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management for dynamic handling and driving comfort as well as 21-inch RS Spyder wheels. The driver will also be able to get the car into a parking bay more easily with ParkAssist with Surround View.

The powertrain available for the Malaysian market is the 3-litre turbocharged V6 engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger. The 340 ps/450 Nm output is delivered to the wheels through an 8-speed Tiptronic S transmission.

Inside, the enhancements now include 4-zone climate control and a BOSE  Surround Sound System. The high-powered 710W audio system comes with 14 speakers, including a separate subwoofer, and uses BOSE SoundTrue Enhancement Technology to enhance the quality of sound reproduction.

“There’s nothing quite like a ride in a sportscar, be it for the driver or the passenger, and it’s our goal to share ‘that sportscar feeling’ with more Porsche enthusiasts in Malaysia. The introduction of the new Cayenne Premium Package has enabled us to do that, and we stay committed to finding new ways of bringing fans closer to realising their dreams of owning a Porsche,” said Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance.

The Cayenne comes with a 4-year unlimited mileage warranty as well as 4 years of free scheduled service and maintenance. SDAP is now accepting orders for the model which has a base price of
RM680,000
. Deliveries will begin in 2021.

Click here for more information
.

Sime Darby Auto Performance opens largest 3S Porsche Centre in Asia-Pacific


Motor Image Subaru Announces Lubricant Partnership With MOTUL & Addresses Steering Defects Issue

Motor Image
 – the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles across nine territories in Asia – and French owned lubricant specialist
Motul
 – have jointly announced their partnership to develop and supply a line of exclusive lubricant products for Subaru vehicles in the region. Motor Image will be the first vehicle distributor that Motul is partnering globally and the deal will currently over eight territories –
 Cambodia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand
and
 Vietnam.

Under the deal, Motul will supply the specially developed and formulated oils for Motor Image distributorship and dealerships in the region.  These oils, developed in Japan, will be used in all of its aftersales and service centres.  Customers will have access to premium quality lubricants, such as 100 per cent synthetic engine oils, at competitive prices, giving customers a superior aftersales service, available only at Motor Image’s facilities and dealerships. The licensing and partnership deal, valued at
 USD5 million
 per annum to start, signifies both companies’ interest in the growing Asian region for the automotive sector. The two-year deal, with the option to extend, is expected to increase 10 per cent in value yearly.

“Subaru has been closely linked with Motul since its motorsports racing days, and Motul is closely associated with the STI brand.  At Motor Image we have had an over 10-year relationship.  Motul specially formulated lubricants for Subaru cars, taking into account the weather and other conditions, when we took part in the Asia Pacific Rally Championships.  We are happy to partner Motul again, to re-establish a long-term relationship to provide the best quality products for our Subaru customers,”
 said
Mr Glenn Tan, Deputy Chairman and Managing Director, Tan Chong International Limited.

“Motorsports is part of Motul’s DNA, and Motul has been closely linked with Subaru and the STI brand since the Subaru World Rally Team competed in the World Rally Championship (WRC) back in the 1980s. Today, Motul is very pleased to be collaborating with Motor Image to provide an exclusive line-up of lubricant products and customer experience for its Subaru customers. We believe this regional collaboration will further strengthen its partnership with Subaru beyond just Motorsports,”
 said
Mr Masaki Shimizu, Chairman, Motul of Japan KK.

The first of the exclusive Subaru lubricant product line-up to be launched, from January 2019, include
Subaru Engine Oils by Motul – the 0W20 and the 5W30
. These 100 per cent synthetic oils have been specially researched and developed in Japan, and licensed for retail exclusively at Subaru outlets. Both companies will also be working on marketing the lubricant products and merchandise from the partnership as part of Motor Image’s plans to enhance the customer experience journey for Subaru customers across the region. Plans include co-branded space and exclusive merchandise at Subaru outlets.

The
Subaru Engine Oils by Motul
 are available across Subaru service centres in
Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore
and
 Taiwan
now, and subsequently in
 Cambodia, Thailand
and
 Vietnam
 by March 2019.

MOTOR IMAGE STATEMENT ON GLOBAL POWER STEERING DEFECTS

Motor Image Group customers not affected by power steering defects

Singapore, 24 January 2019 –
Motor Image Group (MIG), distributor of Subaru vehicles in nine markets across Asia, today announced that its customers are not affected by the power steering defect announced by Subaru Corporation.  None of the affected production has been delivered to MIG customers.

The Japanese automaker said on Wednesday that it had suspended production at production facilities in Japan from 16 January 2019 and will likely resume production and shipments as early as 28 January 2019.  This was due to defects affecting the power steering in three vehicle models, the Forester, the XV and the Impreza. The affected vehicles were manufactured between late December 2018 and 16 January 2019.

MIG puts customer safety and satisfaction as its utmost priority.  Across all its operations, only 3 markets, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore have shipments due of affected vehicles. A total of only 120 cars from the affected batch are due in these markets and none of these have been delivered to customers.

During this interim period, as MIG continues to roll out the new 5
th
 Generation Subaru Forester across the region, it will continue to take bookings from customers, though customers may have to wait for longer than usual for delivery.  This is due to the temporary halt in production from Japan, whilst we wait further advice from Subaru Corporation of rectified shipments from them.

Motor Image is committed to the highest safety standards and quality driving experience for all its customers and is in constant contact with Subaru Corporation for any further updates.


Honda S2000 Replacement Might Be Coming Soon!

A senior official has hinted to automotive news portals that the iconic
Honda S2000
 sports car may make a comeback this year to commemorate the Japanese automaker’s 75th anniversary.

Honda has been without a compact sports car beneath the flagship NSX supercar since the final S2000 – a car created to commemorate Honda’s 50th anniversary in 1998 and debuted in 1999 – rolled off the assembly line in 2009.

Several reports over the last decade suggested that preparations for a rebirth were in the works, but none have come to reality. This was a disappointment because the S2000 is an underrated car and it was and still is a magnificent sports car.

In light of stricter pollution regulations and Honda Europe’s widespread embrace of electrified technology, if Honda were to introduce a new sports car and sell it in Europe, it would almost certainly need to employ hybrid or electric power.

The previous S2000 produced 237 hp so with the modern hybrid or electric technology available, we expect it to produce somewhere around 320 hp to 360 hp.

Previously, the Japanese automaker revealed plans for two battery-powered sports vehicles before the end of the decade. One of the cars is believed to be a third-generation Honda NSX replacement, following the original 1990-2005 model, which utilised petrol power, and the recently retired 2016-2022 model, which included hybrid technology.

The second car, according to a teaser image supplied by Honda, could have the proportions of the S2000 – a typical front-engined, rear-wheel-drive roadster with a tall bonnet and low snout – although it is unclear if it would be a coupe or convertible.

The arrival date for these vehicles was not mentioned when they were announced, although they are expected by the end of this decade. Honda Europe vice president Tom Gardner could be alluding at a special edition of an existing model, or a new Type R high-performance variant of another Honda vehicle, rather than a new sports car. “2023 is 75 years of Honda. We had the S2000 at 50. Who knows,” he said.

A rendering by Somak Biswas

In 2017, Honda’s then-CEO Takahiro Hachigo said “I’ve already heard many voices expressing they’d like a next-generation S2000. Honda development engineers are quick to develop sporty cars if the requests are there.”

A new Honda S2000 would be amazing to have back as a competitor to the Nissan 400Z, Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ. The Japanese sports car market is far from extinct.


Money-saving offers for Volkswagen buyers until end of February

Though representing a German brand, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) ‘acts locally’ and is already preparing for the coming Chinese New Year. For those wanting to start the new year of The Ox with a new car, VPCM is offering special money-saving deals.

Authorised Volkswagen dealers around the country will offer a RM1,000
ang pao
 rebate for the
Passat
 and
Arteon sedans
 and
Tiguan Allspace SUV
. There are also additional savings of up to RM4,500 if the purchase is booked through the Volkswagen eShowroom.

Those interested in the Passat range will also enjoy free additional 1-year insurance or RM5,500 savings. For selected Tiguan Allspace and Arteon models, there are additional savings of up to RM3,500. And of course, with the
sales tax exemption extended until June 2021
, there are also extra savings.

Besides warranty coverage for the full 5 years after original registration, the owner will also not need to pay for scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years (terms and conditions apply). There will also be complimentary Roadside Assistance for the first 5 years, providing peace of mind on long journeys.

Existing owners not forgotten

VPCM doesn’t look at just selling a car but cares about making the entire ownership experience a good one. And during festive seasons like the coming Chinese New Year, Volkswagen owners can also enjoy special deals at authorised service centres. This year, the CNY Aftersales Service Campaign offers savings on replacement parts and genuine engine oil. The Aftersales offerings are listed below:

Additional offerings for owners include complimentary a 5-Star Service Check, up to 20% discount on batteries and tyres, and complimentary Volkswagen
ang pao
 packets. Service appointments can be made online
here
.

Chinese New Year falls on February 12 this year, but the Volkswagen CNY Sales and Aftersales promotions will be on
until February 28, 2021
.

For more information or to locate a Volkswagen showroom in Malaysia,  visit
www.volkswagen.com.my
 .

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia introduces additional online aftersales services


New vehicle sales summary – 19.5% more deliveries in July 2019

Key points:

♦ The second half of 2019 started off with a higher Total Industry Volume (TIV) compared to June 2019, with 50,853 vehicles registered. This was a 19.5% increase or 8,327 units.

♦ 91%, or 46,189 units, of the new vehicles delivered were passenger vehicles (excluding pick-up trucks).

♦ The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) attributed the higher TIV to a longer working month, giving companies more selling days.

♦ Comparisons to the numbers achieved in 2018 show major differences due to the unusual market condition in July 2018. This was brought on by the new government’s decision to remove (or zero-rate) the Goods & Services Tax (GST) for three months. With the purchase price of all new vehicles reduced – a very rare occurrence in the industry’s history. Sales rocketed to a TIV of 68,466 units, the second highest TIV reported since the MAA was established in the 1960s and promoted transparency by sharing the data with its members and the public.

One year ago, the market experienced an unusual condition as prices were lowered due to removal of GST, resulting in an unprecedented surge in sales. Therefore there is no point comparing the numbers in July this year with those in 2018.

♦ By the end of July last year, the cumulative TIV after 7 months had reached 358,065 units. This year, without the GST-free boost, it has reached 347,187 units, 6% lower than the level in 2018. 317,064 units were made up of passenger vehicles, while the remainder of 30,123 units were commercial vehicles (including pick-up trucks).

♦ As the MAA has made a forecast of 600,000 units for the 2019 TIV, it means that monthly sales must be 48,387 units in the remaining 5 months. The MAA expects the commercial vehicle sector to pick up with new and ongoing development projects and the segment to account for 66,000 units.

♦ Generally, though, the expected increase in TIV is not significant as the forecast of 600,000 units is just 1,286 units more than the actual TIV for 2018 which was 598,714 units.

♦ August sales are expected to be at the same level as July’s although promotions celebrating Merdeka month may persuade some people to change their vehicles.


Toyota GAZOO Racing to make parts for Japan’s first supercar

The Toyota 2000GT is a rare and legendary model in the company’s history. On sale between 1967 and 1970, it was Japan’s first supercar produced in collaboration with Yamaha. Only 351 units were made – two of which were used in the James Bond movie, ‘
You Only Live Twice
’.

The 2000GT had the latest Japanese technology of that period – a 2-litre DOHC straight six engine, 4-wheel double-wishbone suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, radial tyres, magnesium alloy wheels, and retractable headlamps. It had a maximum speed of 220 kph, on a par with European sportscars of the day.

Prior to its launch, it was entered in speed trials and, despite bad weather conditions with an approaching typhoon, it set 3 world records (10,000 miles, 15,000 kms, 72 hours) and 13 international records. It also achieved wins and high placement in various races.

Priced at around US$7,000 when it was new, a 2000GT fetched almost US$1.2 million in 2013, making it the most expensive Asian car sold at that time. Clearly, it is a collectors’ car and owners around the world are taking care of this valuable historical asset.

Two units were modified into open-top versions specially for the James Bond movie, ‘You Only Live Twice’.

While the remaining cars are probably not driven much, some parts may still need replacement and after 50 years, original parts are obviously no longer produced. However, now Toyota GAZOO Racing has announced that it will reproduce some parts for the 2000GT under its
GR Heritage Parts Project
.

The transmission and differential-related parts for the 2000GT.

This project is an initiative that will reproduce spare parts that were no longer available, and sell them as genuine parts to owners of classic Toyota models. The first are for the Supra A70 and A80 models and now, the 2000GT.

The 2000GT, Japan’s first supercar in the 1960s, with the Lexus LFA, Toyota’s supercar of the 21st century. No convertible versions of the 2000GT were made at the factory so this is probably one of the two customised James Bond cars.

Efforts are underway at specially collaborating suppliers, along with Toyota plants and related divisions, to undertake production of the parts which are transmission and differential-related. They will be available through selected Toyota dealers worldwide and only to actual owners of the car who require them.

GR Heritage Parts project to reproduce Toyota Supra parts for sale


Fiat 500 lovers – this one’s for you!

Whether young or old, LEGO has a special appeal and the things that can be created from just those small bricks range from homes to aircraft to Star Wars machines and of course, cars. And where cars are concerned, there are different series with varying levels of complexity.

Recently, Fiat and LEGO gave birth to the new ‘Fiat 500 LEGO Creator Expert’ set which was unveiled at the Spazio MRF-Mirafiori in Turin, Italy.

“In its long history, the Fiat 500 has passed the original material event to enter the collective imagination, becoming an international icon. This is also demonstrated by a recent exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York,” said Cristiano Fiorio, Head of Brand Marketing Communication for FCA EMEA Region.

He added that LEGO only chooses iconic products and the Fiat 500 is not only a car but an artistic and cultural phenomenon with a strong symbolic value, as well as a playful and colourful expression of Italianness in the world.

At the presentation of the new set, there was also full-sized model of the Fiat 500 – made with 189,032 LEGO bricks. It took 830 hours to build the LEGO model, according to a Fiat source.

The partnership between Fiat and LEGO is part of a larger project which sees the FCA group having exclusive collaborations in the licensing field. The aim is to extend the visibility of its brands outside the automotive world, conveying the values of each brand.

The new Fiat 500 LEGO Creator Expert set is the first example and celebrates one of the most famous Made-in-Italy symbols in the world, as well as paying tribute to the legendary ‘Dolce Vita’.

Inspired by the legendary Fiat 500F of the late 1960s, the new set offers a model of 960 pieces, complete with a working sunroof, detailed interiors, luggage racks with spare wheel, luggage rack on the back and an opening hood to inspect the engine once finished construction. In addition, the set includes a folding easel, a palette and a painting of the car against the backdrop of the Colosseum in Rome.

The new Fiat 500 LEGO Creator Expert is available from today at the LEGO Store.

Hybrid technology in 2020 Fiat 500 and Panda begins electrification of Italian brand