Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain: The One Pick-Up Truck To Rule Them All!

There are a lot of expectations levelled on the pick-up truck segment.

Decades ago, a pick-up truck only had to be tough and reliable.

It just had to be able to carry as well as tow heavy things, not break down, and that’s about it.

Manufacturers had little to worry about in terms of design and creature comforts.

They focused on bomb-proof reliability and go-anywhere technology such as an advanced four-wheel-drive system.

Now though, pick-up truck manufacturers have a lot to do.

They not only have to make sure their product is tough and reliable, but it also has to be comfortable with advanced creature comforts and safety technology to match that of a regular sedan.

Good looks matter now more than ever before as well. Not to mention top notch after sales service.

A good warranty matters more in this segment than any other segment as well. Simply because the truck needs to be able to do what the manufacturer says it will do – like be able to tow three tons without breaking down.

And if it did break down – the manufacturer needs to fix it, and quick.

Which takes me to the one pick-up truck that seemingly has it all – the all-new Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain.

Isuzu’s have always been tough and reliable. Basic machines with a singular purpose of carrying out the toughest jobs in some of the toughest terrains.

It is a reputation that has been built on decades of use and abuse in some of toughest conditions around the world.

But good looks, comfort and brimming with creature comforts and technology is not something that is usually associated with an Isuzu.

Now though, the D-Max X-Terrain is different. Very different.

It’s good looks can challenge that of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak.

It’s toughness and reliability could perhaps put a Toyota Hilux to shame.

The Mitsubishi Triton doesn’t even come close to it in all aspects. And neither does the Nissan Navara.

Take the interior for starters.

The seats are among the most comfortable in its segment, and extend support to the shoulders, which isn’t something you get very often in a pick-up truck.

The tanned brown leather doesn’t only look great but is super comfortable especially during long distance drives.

The driver’s seat is electronically adjustable in 8-different ways with impressive thigh support. Thigh support is important for those long cross-border drives.

And what I really appreciate about the sitting position of the X-Terrain is the steering wheel that is adjustable for reach and height (tilt & telescopic). Which means you are never left uncomfortable when driving.

The Isuzu is the only truck to offer such adjustability as well.

The quality of everything is top notch, even the buttons feel like they came from a BMW 3-Series or a Mercedes C-Class.

Then there is the entertainment system that is accessible via a 9-inch touchscreen that dominates the dashboard.

The software that gives you access to navigation and other controls such as air-conditioning is easy to use.

But it also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

This combined with an impressive sound system that features speakers mounted on the roof (!) of the car, gives the interior a luxurious look and feel.

Occupants of the rear seats will appreciate the rear air-conditioning vents and the single USB slot to charge electronics.

The interior is generally well thought out and doesn’t seem to be lacking anything. Simply said, almost perfect for a pick-up truck and there’s lots that other pick-up truck manufacturers can learn from the X-Terrain. Especially as far as creature comforts and ergonomics go.

Then there is the powertrain.

Isuzu’s have generally offered rather basic powertrains. There has always been a robust engine at the centre that is a good mix of power, reliability and fuel economy.

And that engine has been mated to a rather traditional gearbox.

That has not changed, and I understand why.

Why fix something that works fine?

The engine is a 3.0-litre turbocharged unit that is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.

Rather conventional you might say, but it is a tried and tested powertrain that has been in the market for a while already.

It is proven to be reliable which is the most important thing in a pick-up.

And it is also quite economical. You get a range of a little over 750 kilometres when the 76-litre diesel tank is full.

In fact, on a trip to Penang, I saw a range of 850 kilometres. So consumption depends on usage and your driving style.

In terms of power, the X-Terrain isn’t exactly the most powerful in its class.

It puts out 190PS and 450Nm of torque, which may not seem like much against the likes of the Ranger Wildtrak, but it is still plenty for day to day usage.

This powertrain also gives the X-Terrain the ability to tow anything that weighs up to three and a half tons. And is able to carry anything that weighs under a ton in the rear bed.

Other pick-up trucks too have similar capabilities, proving that you don’t need mega power to get the work done.

In terms of drive, the X-Terrain feels more refined while power delivery is not an issue. It will comfortably cruise at about 140-150km/h with no dramas.

The suspension set up is quite regular – independent double wishbones with coil springs and gas shocks up front. And the usual leaf springs at the rear.

This gives the X-Terrain a typical pick-up truck live drive and feel, so there are no surprises there.

But the one segment that has the X-Terrain glittering over its competitors is the amount of safety technology that the D-Max has over its competitors.

Namely ADAS, which is short for Advanced Driver Assist System.

ADAS is a suite that encompasses all the safety technology that the D-Max X-Terrain has to offer. This includes.

1.
Forward Collision Warning
 – This detects a potential collision in front and alerts the driver.

2.
Autonomous Emergency Braking
 – Detects a collision and brakes automatically if the driver doesn’t respond.

3.
Turn Assist
 – Monitors oncoming traffic when turning and brakes automatically to avoid accidents.

4.
Automatic Pedal Misapplication Mitigation
 – This system helps to brake the car when the accelerator pedal has been accidentally pressed by the driver.

5.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go function
 – Adjusts the cars cruising speed based on traffic conditions, and also helps to accelerate again when the car comes to a complete stop.

6.
Lane Departure Warning
 – Detects and warns the driver when the car accidentally drifts towards another lane.

7.
Automatic High Beam
 – Dims the high beam automatically to avoid dazzling other drivers.

8.
Blind Spot Monitor
 – Alerts the driver when a vehicle is in the car’s blind spot.

9.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
 – Monitors the rear of the car and alerts the driver when there’s a vehicle approaching when reversing.

10.
Manual Speed Limiter
 – Limits the speed of the car at the press of a button.

11.
Multi Collision Brake
 – In the event of an accident, the car’s brakes are applied to prevent subsequent impact from cars behind.

Not only that, but the D-Max is the only pick-up truck in its segment that has a five-Star ASEAN NCAP crash rating. And it is also the only pick-up truck that offers seven airbags when all other trucks have just six, or less.

These are not the only safety features the X-Terrain has to offer. In fact, the safety tech is so vast that the official brochure has three full pages dedicated to safety technology alone.

The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain seemingly has it all. But what perfects an already impressive package is the fact that it come with a seven year unlimited mileage warranty.

For reference sake, the Toyota Hilux only offers a five-year or 150,000km warranty, so if you do 160,000km in two years, that warranty is out the window.

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak offered a five year warranty until recently. It now comes with a five-year or 160,000km warranty.

The Mitsubishi Triton on the other hand offers a five-year or 200,000km warranty.

The Nissan Navara too offers a five-year or 150,000km warranty.

In that aspect, Isuzu has truly put its money where its mouth is (or grille) and offered the best warranty. Because there is no better testament to a product than the manufacturer itself having trust in it and offering the best warranty in the market.

At just RM142,000, the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain is undoubtedly the best value for money pick-up truck in the market right now.

It is no wonder then that the truck has been the recipient of multiple awards the world over naming the X-Terrain as the best pick-up truck in the market.


1200hp Porsche 911 Turbo hits 338kmh – on sand!

Record-breaker and legit ‘Speed Freak’ Zef Eisenberg has set several records last weekend by smashing the outright speed and flying miles records at the legendary Pendine Sands on board his 1200hp Porsche 911 Turbo specially built by ES Motors and his MADMAX Race Team.

Below is the breakdown of his newly set achievement set at the iconic beach.

Fastest sand speed record achieved by a wheel-powered vehicle – 210.332mph (338.5kmh)

Fastest flying quarter (one way) wheel powered record – 206.492mph (332.3kmh)

Fastest flying mile (one way) wheel powered record – 196.970mph (316.9kmh)

Fastest Flying mile (2 way) 962mph (same measurement as Sir Malcolm Campbell)

Only person in history to have achieved over 200mph on bike and car at Pendine

Only person in history to have achieved a flying mile record in bike and car in Britain

The previous record that Eisenberg broke was interestingly set by top Hollywood actor, Idris Elba, back in 2015 at 180.361mph (290.2kmh). It took some serious power from the entire MADMAX Race Team to ensure that their new record will stand for the next few decades.

What was once a standard 2014 model that churned out 550hp turned out to be complete rebuilt fitted with a 4.1-litre race engine. Fitting in all the necessary parts to create 1200hp wasn’t their biggest challenge but cracking their heads on how to limit wheelspin on the loose sand surface.

At the end, Eisenberg and his team could only use 850hp to avoid such wheel spin on super loose surfaces which has proven to be just the right amount to drive the Porsche to 338kmh. These people got some huge ‘
cajones’
 to even think, let alone break the speed record set on a beach.

Image credit: MADMAX Race Team


MyEG No Longer An Exclusive Service Provider

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said the contract between MyEG Services Bhd and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) has been renewed by three years. However the agreement will no longer be exclusive, so other service providers may also be able to provide the services, which includes renewal of the road tax and driver’s licence as well as summons settlement.

The existing exclusive contract for a three-year extended period was awarded in 2020 and will expire on May 22.

Loke stated that “We have given them (MyEG) an extension of three years, but we have made it very clear that it is not exclusive, meaning they are just one of the providers. If there are other e-government providers who want to provide services, we would consider. They are just one of the service providers to the government. We allow them to be the gateway for the government as one of the options for the public to renew their licence, road tax and so forth.”

After Loke stated that private vehicle owners would no longer be needed to display road tax stickers on their vehicles and carry a physical copy of their driving licence, MyEG shares experienced a significant selldown in February.

Following press reports that stated all immigration services and procedures, including those being managed by third parties like MyEG, will be transferred to the Immigration Department by 2025. On the same day, MyEG made it clear that no meetings had been held with Putrajaya regarding the consolidation of all immigration-related activities under the government’s National Integrated Immigration System.

The decision to terminate these exclusive agreements is gradual. In an effort to increase competition and bring down living costs, it was reported in 2019 that the government was considering breaking up monopolistic enterprises. MyEG and Puspakom were two of the firms under consideration.


RUF Reveals Project RBS ‘Bergmeister’

RUF Automobile GmbH, well known for its specialization in Porsches, has come out with a unique model inspired by the legendary Porsche 906. Known as Project RBS, or ‘Bergmeister’, it also has inspiration from the 909 Bergspyder and the 718 RS 60 Spyder hill-climb cars.

The Project RBS is the work of Tony Hatter, a British designer who was with Porsche at one time. Hatter conceived the Bergmeister as an all-carbon skinned roadster which combines the best of classic design and modern engineering in a package ready to master both road and track.

Mounted in the rear is a dry sump, RUF-engineered, air-cooled 3.6-litre single-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 450 bhp/600 Nm, connected to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Black Alcantara lines the entire interior and the driver sits in bucket seats, with an Alcantara-clad steering wheel. With its direct steering, the Bergmeister responds to the slightest wheel input and ensures precise handling.

New SCR prototype
At the world debut of the Bergmeister, RUF Automobile also displayed its newly developed SCR prototype which carries much of the same DNA as the 1978 original dressed in a modern package using RUF’s latest technology and engineering. The original SCR was based on the Porsche 911 SC and its engine was improved to deliver similar performance to the 930 Turbo, which cost more.

The carbonfibre monocoque and bodywork deliver maximum strength with minimum weight, while an integrated roll cage and rear space frame provide rigidity.

The iconic SCR build is designed as a state-of-the-art sportscar for those who prefer the soundtrack of a naturally aspirated engine. The consistent lightweight construction and powerful engine result in the feeling of a racing car built for the street. The 4.0-litre flat-six produces 510 bhp/470 Nm, with the power routed to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox for an optimal mechanical feel.

“When we began building our own automobiles in 1974, it was all for the thrill of the drive,” said Alois Ruf, owner of RUF Automobile GmbH and son of the founder. “Bergmeister embodies the most elemental driving experience, while the SCR highlights the latest technology offerings from our team in Pfaffenhausen.”

The RUF Story
RUF Automobile’s history goes back to 1939 when Alois Ruf Senior established ‘Auto RUF’, a general automotive and mechanical repair shop. It was located in Pfaffenhasuen, a small village to west of Munich in Germany. The company is still based there though its business has expanded way beyond German borders.

In 1963, the company became associated with BMW as a representative. While the senior continued to expand his company, Alois Junior, both in 1950, began to develop a passion for sportscars. As early as 1975, he built his first car, a 911 Carrera RS 3.0, to his own design. The car attracted much attention with its special interior equipment, headlamp-washer system and roof aerial.

Fast forward to 1983 and the first vehicle to bear a RUF chassis number was the RUF BTR of 1983. The core of this car was a 3.4-litre RUF turbocharged engine with 374 bhp output and a RUF-developed 5-speed manual transmission. The car was hand-built from a bodyshell up. Along with the wide turbo bodywork, RUF also offered the BTR in the narrow 911 Carrera body.

In 1987, the company presented the RUF CTR, a lightweight coupe powered by a 469 bhp 3.4-litre twin-turbo engine and Motronic engine management in a narrow, aerodynamically-optimized body. The performance of the CTR, which the international motoring press dubbed the ‘Yellowbird’, set new benchmarks for street-legal sportscars.

In comparison tests on the high-speed track at Nardo in southern Italy the CTR, with its top speed of 343 km/h beating pedigree high-end sportscars like the Ferrari F40, an AMG-Mercedes and a works-tuned Porsche 959. In that same year, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) certified RUF as an automobile manufacturer.

To this day. RUF remains unique as a manufacturer in its own right and continues to source ‘bodies-in-white’ directly from Porsche to produce bespoke hand-built sportscars with their own very special characteristics. Every car is built specifically to the owner’s requirements which means that each car is very rarely the same as any other produced at the factory and carries its own RUF chassis number.

RUF’s Porsche-looking Rodeo Concept for off-roading


New series of official posters of the legendary Lamborghini Countach

A total of 112 units of the
Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4
 will be produced. The car, shown at Pebble Beach in California in August this year, is a tribute to the
original Countach’s 50th anniversary
.

Maurizio Reggiani, the company’s Chief Technical Officer, remembers the huge impact the Countach LP 500 had on him and his professional growth. In his view, the new Countach LPI 800-4 has all the necessary characteristics to become part of the collective imagination.

The 21st century Countach LPI 800-4.

“The technical formula of the LP 500, with its V12 engine in a longitudinal position at the rear and the gearbox positioned in front behind the cockpit, led to a new way of imagining super sports cars in terms of both design and performance. The vertically opening doors, which debuted on the LP 500, and the mechanical layout remained unchanged, confirming the original choice. The Countach LPI 800-4 adds modern technology, including composite materials, improved aerodynamic features, and a 12-cylinder hybrid engine equipped with a supercapacitor and four-wheel drive. All elements that have not changed the extraordinary spirit of the original Countach,” he said.

Every single unit of the Countach LPI 800-4 has already been sold (in fact, customers placed their booking even before the official unveiling to the public). Most of the customers are enthusiasts who already own an original Countach model and couldn’t resist the temptation to configure their new Countach with the same colours as the classic one. They will be getting their cars during 2022.

The 1979 Countach LP 400S in ‘The Cannonball Run’ movie is considered historically significant enough that it is entered in the National Historic Vehicle Register of the United States Library of Congress.

From 1974 to 1990, 1,999 Countachs in 5 different series were produced, representing a model that, in addition to ending up displayed on the bedroom walls of an entire generation and being used in dozens of films, allowed Lamborghini to survive the most difficult years of its history and to enter permanently into the halls of legend.

Posters of the Countach have been among the most popular in the world and when the organisers of the 2021 British Motor Show polled visitors, the Lamborghini supercar launched 50 years ago was the top choice. Now, a series of official new Countach LPI 800-4 posters has been completed and are available online at
lamborghinistore.com
.

Omar Aqil
, a Pakistani 3D illustrator and CGI artist, places the Countach in the centre of the incredible technological evolution of the last 50 years.

Yegor Zhuldybin
, a young Russian creator specializing in surreal digital collages, explores the integration of the new Countach into today’s world, balancing between the modern incarnation of the iconic model and the celebration of Lamborghini’s history.

Shy.Studio,
 an independent motion graphics studio specializing in 3D animations and still life, is inspired by the influence of the vintage 1980s posters, reproducing the legendary Countach design in a modern setting mixed with abstract, tactile elements and objects that seem to come from another world.

Andreas Wannerstedt,
 a Swedish artist known for his 3D works featuring hypnotic looped animations, proposes a reinterpretation that stages the encounter between nature and the most advanced human technology: the delicate shades of an imaginary sunset meet the clean lines of the Countach LPI 800-4.

LRNZ (Lorenzo Ceccotti):
 graphic designer, motion graphics creator, animator and illustrator, highlights the extraordinary graphic qualities of the new Countach, focusing on extreme minimalism and high-tech vibrations.

50 years ago – launch of the Lamborghini Countach


Perodua Launches New Aruz SUV… MPV? All You Need To Know In 5min [+Video]

Derived from the word
‘arus’
 which means
‘current’
 in Bahasa Malaysia, second national carmaker
Perodua
 finally took the wraps-off the much-awaited new
Arus
 7-seater SUV at a huge launch event at MITEC recently. Perodua is no stranger to the SUV/MPV game, having introduced models like the Rusa, Kembara and Nautica in the past. Here’s the first walkabout video directly from the launch!

It does beg the question though whether the Arus is indeed an SUV or an MPV, because it seats seven but only has 2-wheel drive. Perhaps we’ll call it an
MPSUV
 then. Levity aside, there are two variants to choose from, the
X
 and
AV
 or
‘Advance’
, priced at
RM72,900
 and
RM77,900
 respectively. You can download the official Aruz brochure here:
Perodua ARUZ_Brochure

Powertrain wise, both variants of the Aruz run a
1.5-litre (1,496cc), 4-cyl (2NR-VE) DOHC
 engine with
 Dual-VVTi
 that churns out about
102bhp
 and
133Nm
 of torque, mated to a
4-speed
 automatic transmission that sends power to the
 rear wheels
. Fuel-efficiency seems to be the key here as opposed to outright power, because the Aruz is capable of returning 15.6km/L in ‘Eco Idle’ mode. Speaking of wheels, the Aruz rides on 17-inch alloys (both variants), shod with 215/60 R17 tyres.

Stay tuned for the official test drive coming soon!

Perodua Aruz Launch Photo Gallery…


Hironobu Yoshimura is the New Managing Director & CEO at Honda Malaysia

Honda Malaysia has announced the appointment of Hironobu Yoshimura as its new Managing Director & CEO. He takes over from Madoka Chujo who has returned to Honda’s head office in Japan to assume a new role in the Automobile Operations Sales Supervisory Unit, Sales Division which covers a larger number of markets.

Mr. Yoshimura has been with Honda Motor for 34 years, with experience in the areas of Corporate Planning, Business Planning, Marketing and Aftersales Services. He has held key roles in various countries such as Japan, Thailand and Pakistan, with his position prior to coming to Malaysia was being President & CEO of Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Limited.

“I am excited to take up this new role at Honda Malaysia. This unique and diverse nation is truly an important market in the Asia and Oceania region for us at Honda. My predecessors have built the Honda brand to become the success that it is now in Malaysia – as the forerunner in introducing Honda’s advanced technology in the region, launching exciting new models and leading the Non-National Passenger Vehicle segment for many years,” he said.

“Most importantly, Honda Malaysia has persevered through and overcame many challenges over the years. I look forward to leading the company in a post-pandemic business environment and to contribute positively towards the growth of the company,” he added. “I am also pleased to share that based on our internal data, three Honda models have ranked No.1 in their respective segments for the first quarter of 2022. The models are the City, City Hatchback and the latest Civic.”

Honda City Sedan and City Hatchback (top) and Civic were segment leaders during the first quarter of 2022.

During her short time in Malaysia, Ms. Chujo led the company through a difficult period when the country was still having restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, she introduced the new City Hatchback and Civic models as well as celebrated the production of the 1-millionth vehicle at the Honda Malaysia plant in Melaka recently. During her term, Honda Malaysia also maintained its No. 1 position in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment for the 8th consecutive year.

Honda Malaysia’s local vehicle assembly crosses 1 million mark


Interstate travel permitted, no limit on number of occupants in vehicle

Much of the Klang Valley (Selangor and WP Kuala Lumpur) will continue to be under the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) which has been in force since October 14. Penang can resume its Recovery MCO (RMCO, except for the sub-districts of Barat Daya and Timur Laut  which will be under CMCO until December 20. Other states and regions will have varying levels of MCO depending on the number of cases.

There will no longer be roadblocks but the police will be checking on SOP compliance.

Speaking on behalf of the National Security Council, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said that, from Monday December 7, there will be no roadblocks at state borders as the public can travel between states.

The number of passengers in vehicles will also not be limited to two or three but depend on the permissible seating capacity of the vehicle. A 7-seater can therefore have 7 people on board and will not be stopped by the police. This should be a relief for those with big families who wish to go out together although restrictions are still in force at restaurants with regard to the number of people at a table.

The number of occupants in a vehicle can be up to the maximum number permitted for the vehicle type.

What is important is to practice social distancing and not gather in groups, and to wear a face mask when in public areas. You should also make it a point to use hand sanitizer frequently and wash your hands  with soap and water as well. Do make it a point to  have your temperature checked, and scan the QR code or provide your contact details at shops or other places as this is important information in case contact tracing is necessary. You would want to know of a possible case at a place that you had visited, wouldn’t you?


MCS 2021: Triple Podiums For R Engineering HMRT in first race of Round 3

It was a good start for the final showdown of the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS) 2021 in the first race of Round 3 as R Engineering HMRT swept 3 podiums in each category – Touring Production (T), Stock Production 1 (SP1), and Stock Production 2 (SP2).

Their drivers, Alif Hamdan and his partner, Lai Wee Sing spearheaded the T Production category while Chiow Teck Song finished the race in second place for the SP1 category and the combination of Putera Adam and Calvin Wong in third place.

“Syukur alhamdulillah, thank you to R Engineering and HMRT. The car was almost faultless halfway through the race suddenly, two sensors ‘went on holiday’ so we had to tow the car back and change it. We are lucky enough to finish the race,” said a delighted Alif Hamdan.

“I had a good start in P9. I got up in second place then I got touched and dropped down to last. I manage to crawl back to P2 but then after 30 seconds penalty, I finished in third place. I am really satisfied with Race 1,” rival Putera Adam added.

In SP1, Japanese driver from Rworks, Ken Urata driving Honda Civic FD2R won the category leaving Chiow Teck Song, R Engineering HMRT in second place and Empire M Racing in third place with their drivers, Shazull Hisham and Mohd Syahrizal Jamaluddin.

“I keep my pace and took the opportunity to overtake others. I had a heartbreaking moment going into the last corner of Turn 15 but I manage to end the race well!” Urata said.

In Malaysian Touring Car category, Mark Darwin and Foo Yung Chieh from Tedco Racing completed the 21 laps in the first place, Brendan Paul and Diivvyesh Perajun from the privateer team in second place while Danny Chin and Admi Shahrul in third place.

Moving to SP2, Lew Kar Wai and Ho William from Speed X Racing team touched down the finishing line in the first place, Imran Wafi Adnan and Najiy Ayyad from DNT Tune in second place while third place goes to Putera Adam and Calvin Wong from R Engineering HMRT.

“Actually, we have been struggling throughout the whole season. This is a comeback from us. Thanks to the team and crew members. We are looking forward to the next round,” was the common remarks from the drivers of the Speed X Racing team.

“First of all, thank you very much to the team for giving us a good car. We started and ended the race very well. The car was well balanced and had no damages,” said Najiy Ayyad and partner, Imran Wafi, from DNT Tune.

The races over the two days also be viewed live on the
SIC Facebook page
.

Final battles of 2021 Malaysian Championship Series to be held on December 15 & 16


2020 Audi S8 revealed – 563hp, 800Nm torque!

If you’re looking for something super classy but at the same time, produces muscle car-like power and torque, then the new 2020 Audi S8 might just be the perfect candidate for you. The latest generation S8 promises a combination of ‘progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism’.

The new Audi S8 is fitted with a 4.0-litre TFSI V8 bi-turbo engine that produces a whopping 420kW (around 563hp) and 800Nm of gut-wrenching torque. This is further enhanced with Audi’s latest MHEV technology the offers great efficiency and comfort alongside its great power output.

This translate to a 0-100km/h time of just 3.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 250km/h. Even its exhaust system is fitted with auto actuated flaps to further amplify its impressive V8 roar when you put the metal to the pedal.

With great power comes great responsibility, especially for the suspension systems to deal with all that juice. To deal with all this newly found power, the 2020 Audi S8 is fitted with a host of goodies which include predictive active suspension, dynamic-all-wheel steering and Quattro drive with sport differential.

You might think that a car of this nature would be a fuel guzzler but thanks to the addition of the MHEV mild hybrid system, the Audi S8 is superbly efficient for everyday use with the additional lithium-ion battery, efficient coasting with the engine off, fast restart and extended start-stop range.

Driving the new S8 is made more comfortable with the addition of active noise cancellation in its sound system to eliminate ‘intrusive cabin noise for the ultimate in comfort’. Remember the predictive active suspension? It works in unison with the wheels’ electromechanical actuators to help reduce pitch and roll during high-speed manoeuvres.

This is also further assisted with a front camera that helps to detect road irregularities and sends the info to these actuators. There are also five driving profiles to choose from which also include ‘Comfort +’ to help set the car its most comfortable setting for the driver as well as occupants.

Want something that can turn on a dime? The new Audi S8 comes with dynamic all-wheel steering that allows independent adjustments of the steering angles for both the front and rear axles. This results in superb agility and low and medium speeds as well as great stability at higher speeds when barrelling down the highways.

The US market will be able to purchase a brand new 2020 Audi S8 at $129,500 (around RM 537,813). There will also be several customisation options for those who are interested in adding their own personal touches from different wheel designs and sizes to its lighting options.

New Audi Q3 arrives in Malaysia, priced from RM269,900


The Grand Tour Season 2 to air on 8th December 2017

The second season of the ever popular entertainment show involving cars, the Grand Tour will premier on December 8th 2017. This puts to rest rumors that suggested that due to several health related setbacks involving two of the show’s presenters, the show would have to be postponed.

According to an announcement on the Grand Tour’s Youtube page, the premiere date has been set in stone. And we can expect to see Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May take centre stage in their make-shift tent to provide us with all the foolhardy automotive related adventures before Christmas.

This is welcoming news considering that not too long ago,
Jeremy Clarkson
 had to battle a severe bout of pneumonia, one that his doctor said almost killed him. He was admitted at a hospital in Spain where he was supposedly enjoying his vacation.

When this news broke, it cast further doubt on the 2017 release date of the second season, which already seemed shaky after
Richard Hammond’s
 shunt. Clarkson’s co-host, lost control of a Rimac Concept car while filming, causing it to slide off the elevated track and barrel roll further down hill where it eventually caught on fire.

Hammond was immediately taken to hospital where he has had extensive surgery done correct the injury to his left leg. his recovery took awhile, but the youngest member of the trio managed to bounce back from his injury but thankfully, it occurred sooner rather than later.

We hope that the second season is just as enjoyable as the first. But judging from the trailer video however, it could be more action packed and enjoyable compared to the first. That said, we won’t know for sure until the 8th of December, so stay tuned.


Try a Renault at TC Euro Cars and become the owner of a concept car

The Renault Symbioz concept EV was conceived as a mobile home on wheels, with a multi-use cabin giving occupants a new motoring experience. It is an extended living space from the home, bringing the lounge atmosphere when on the move.

Thanks to its various self-driving modes, there’s no more need for manual driving (the option is still there though). In lounge mode, the front seats swivel 180° experience while the vast sunroof gives a very open feeling as the sky passes by overhead.

The floating glass roof features a system to adjust the opacity of the glass and the LED lighting that can be accessed from the Renault MULTI-SENSE 3.0 system interface.

And when at home, it is also possible to make the Symbioz an additional room for the house. Pushing home automation to the next level, the home power supply can charge the electric  car automatically and at the same time, the car’s battery pack can supply electricity for the needs of the home. This interconnectivity allows car and home to recognize each other and anticipate their reciprocal needs.

Want to own a Symbioz? TC Euro Cars can offer you one and rhere’s no charge. The only cost to you will be some time that will be well spent experiencing one of the Renault models offered by the company. By the way, the Symbioz will be 1/64
th
 the size of the original car.

Some of the Renault models available in Malaysia.

Click here
 to locate a showroom to experience a Renault and get your Symbioz (while stocks last).


Perodua Volunteers Plant 1,700 Mangrove Trees

By holding the Perodua Tree Planting Programme recently at the Kuala Selangor Nature Park in Kuala Selangor, Perodua has maintained its commitment to the conservation of nature.

The UMW Green Shoots Initiative (UGS), which began in the fourth quarter of 2021, was the umbrella organisation for the Corporate Social Responsibility project. The initiative aimed at planting a total of 300,000 trees by the end of 2023.

Since the initiative’s beginning, about 174,000 trees have been planted; the remaining 133,000 trees are anticipated to be planted by the end of this year.

According to Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, mangrove trees protect water quality by removing nutrients and pollutants from stormwater runoff before they reach seagrass habitats and coral reefs. It also provides a nursery habitat for many commercial fish and shellfish, thus contributing to the local abundance of seafood.

The event that involves planting trees is also connected to one of the SDGs, specifically goal number 15, Life on Land. Its goal is to stop biodiversity loss, land degradation, desertification, promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, rehabilitate degraded ecosystems, and safeguard forests.

The one-day programme featured about 120 Perodua volunteers.


New Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 based on Huracan STO

With the new FIA technical regulations coming into force this year, Lamborghini Squadra Corse has developed a new Huracan GT3 EVO2 which is an entirely new project. Compared to the Huracan GT3 EVO, which was homologated in 2019 and based on the Huracan EVO road car, the GT3 EVO2 is based on the
Huracan STO
 and features all-new aerodynamic solutions and intake system.

It shares key design elements and rear-wheel drive only with the Huracan STO, and also the naturally aspirated V10 engine which, in the road version, delivers 640 bhp.

Huracan STO

Huracan GT3 EVO

The two strong design elements – the hexagonal airscoop design and the rear fin – are derived from Huracan STO, contributing to a more efficient intake system and better car balance. The airscoop is connected to a snorkel, replacing the side air intakes, which optimally channels the airflow directly into the engine, resulting in greater responsiveness to the driver’s demands.

The introduction of 10 electronically actuated throttle bodies increases the efficiency of the V10 with titanium valves; the entire system, designed in-house by Lamborghini Squadra Corse, is fixed to the engine by just 4 screws, a solution introduced for the first time on the
Essenza SCV12
, to facilitate maintenance work.

The fully carbonfibre bodywork has a muscular design created in collaboration with Lamborghini’s Centro Stile. The new splitters, diffuser and underbody enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The carbonfibre floor, coated with high-strength Zylon fibre, together with the new diffuser, provides greater downforce than the current generation GT3 EVO.

Other innovations include the rear wing, which is mounted on aluminium alloy pillars inspired by those of the STO. The new supports allow for greater precision in adjusting the wing compared to those of the EVO model.

The redesigned roll cage, with the introduction of two rear pillars, and the new carbon-Kevlar honeycomb side panels, already tested on the Essenza SCV12, increases safety in the event of impact on the doors in compliance with the FIA 2022 regulations. The plexiglas side windows are now fixed to the carbonfibre door panel by means of a ring of screws for greater structural rigidity and reliability.

Stopping power has also been optimised as the brake system has been updated with new calipers and pads designed by Squadra Corse for both endurance and sprint races. These solutions, combined with dedicated traction control and ABS, have been developed to make the car easy to control in low-grip conditions. The car is delivered to customers equipped with PZero tyres (325/680-18 at the front; 325/705-18 at the rear) from Pirelli.

“The new Huracan GT3 EVO2 is not simply an evolution of the current car. It’s a new project that reinforces the technological transfer between Lamborghini’s motorsport division and the company and inherits two difficult tasks: to prove as successful as the previous generations of Huracan GT3, which have won more than 40 international titles in 6 seasons, and to match its commercial success by helping to reach the target of 500 Huracán racing cars since 2015,” said Giorgio Sanna, Lamborghini Head of Motorsport.

The first customers will get their cars from the second half of 2022, with the track debut to be at the 2023 Daytona 24 Hours. Those who are running the previous Huracan GT3 EVO model can upgrade it to the GT3 EVO2 specifications via an evolution kit.

Lamborghini Huracan deliveries pass 20,000 mark after 8 years


All-new Perodua Ativa SUV launched with three variants, priced from RM61,500

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

Perodua tonight launched the all-new Ativa compact SUV which can be regarded as the spiritual successor of the Kembara, its first SUV sold from the late 1990s till the mid-2000s. While the Ativa (taken from the Portuguese word for ‘active’) is adapted from a Daihatsu model, as the Kembara was, the involvement of Perodua in the development of this new model was far greater. In fact, a team of 54 Malaysian engineers went to Japan in 2018 to be part of the development team for the new model being developed by Daihatsu which would also be shared with Toyota.

The Kembara – Perodua’s first SUV which was sold between 1998 and 2006.

This is significant because it meant that the requirements of Malaysian customers would also be considered in the overall design, whereas for the Kembara before, the model was already completed and then Perodua only adapted it cosmetically. The Ativa is the result of the first truly smart partnership between Perodua and its technical and technology partner and shareholder, Daihatsu.

Another difference is that the Ativa has a higher level of localisation than the Kembara, which has helped bring costs down. In fact, at 95%, it has the highest local content rate for any Perodua model right at the time of launch.

Prices shown exclude insurance and 10% sales tax (until June 30, 2021).

“The Perodua Ativa’s competitive pricing was made possible by its 95% localisation rate. Even the engine and transmission are locally manufactured,” Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said, adding that it is also the first model under the
Perodua Smart Build
 blueprint.

According to Dato’ Zainal, the Ativa brings Perodua’s collaboration with Daihatsu to a new level and allows Perodua and its suppliers to commonise components and processes for maximum cost efficiency. “This close collaboration allowed us to include the Malaysian automotive ecosystem in the development of this model, and the suppliers rose to the challenge and were able to reduce their costs,” he added.

As a result, Perodua has been able to push the prices down a bit more and the actual retail prices are lower than the estimated range of RM62,500 to RM73,400 announced earlier. The three variants will be priced between RM61,500 to RM72,000 (excluding insurance premiums in Peninsular Malaysia, with full exemption of sales tax until June 30, 2021).

“We have so far received some 5,000 bookings for the Perodua Ativa since we began collecting orders on February 19. We thank the public very much for their support. Deliveries will begin tomorrow (March 4), and we aim to deliver an average of 3,000 units a month,” said Dato’ Zainal.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW PERODUA ATIVA

First turbocharged model

The Ativa’s powertrain has a number of firsts for the brand. One is the 1-litre 3-cylinder engine (1KR-VE) has turbocharging and direct fuel injection, delivering a maximum output of 98 ps/140 Nm, with strong torque coming in at the lower range. Considering that the kerb weight is 1,035 kgs, thanks to weight-saving measures, the performance should be zippy even with a full load.

The Ativa is also the first model to use a Continuously Variable Transmission (D-CVT) which has 7 ‘virtual speeds’ (manual transmission is not available). With the efficient engine and CVT, the claimed fuel consumption is 18.9 kms/litre, which qualifies the model as an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) in Malaysia.

The Ativa’s 1-litre turbocharged engine and 7-speed D-CVT (right).

DNGA Platform

The Ativa shares the same platform used for the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize, the models from the same joint development program that Perodua participated in. This platform is referred to as DNGA or Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that encompasses not just the platform but also many other structural aspects of the vehicle. It is a highly rigid platform for enhanced handling, stability and comfort. With DNGA, the structure is optimized and high tensile steel is used in many areas to save weight without losing strength.

Dimensions of the Ativa

The Ativa has compact dimensions that position it below the Aruz. Its overall length is 4065 mm while the overall width is 1710 mm and it stands 1635 mm tall. The wheelbase is 2525 mm and unlike the Aruz, there are only two rows of seats in the cabin. There are two storage modes for the cargo area which give 303 or 369 litres of space and as with most SUVs, the rear backrests can be folded down individually to expand the floor length for longer items.

Advanced safety features

Since the 3rd generation of the Myvi, Perodua has been introducing progressively more advanced safety systems in its models. Many of these are integrated as the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) system which helps the driver avoid accidents. For the Ativa, the system has reached the third generation which works at higher speeds (up to 120 km/h for vehicles, up to 60 km/h for pedestrians), and can now detect 2-wheeled vehicles as well as function at night.

ASA 3.0 consists of Pre-Collision Warning and Automatic Braking, Front Departure Alert, and Pedal Misoperation Control. ASA uses a camera at the top of the windscreen to monitor the road ahead and assess conditions. In the event of a collision, the driver will first be warned and if no action is taken to reduced speed or brake, the brakes will activate automatically. This would certainly avoid an expensive repair job or even if the collision cannot be avoided (due to the road surface conditions), the pro-active braking would have reduced the speed and effects of the impact.

Front Departure Alert will remind the driver that the car in front has moved off, while the Pedal Misoperation Control can prevent the car from accidentally being driven into a wall due to pressing on the accelerator pedal inadvertently (it does happen). Additionally, complementing ASA are Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.

The top AV variant gets additional systems which give semi-autonomous (Level 2) capabilities to the Ativa while driving. These are Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Control and Blind Spot Warning. You would have heard of these systems which are found in cars costing more than the Ativa, and it’s impressive that Perodua can offer them as well – even if in the most expensive variant only.

The Adaptive High Beam (red car) can adjust the areas of illumination to avoid blinding oncoming drivers while still maximising coverage.

Even more amazing is the standard provision of an Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) system for the upper two variants. ADB allows better illumination of the road ahead but can also selectively dim certain areas where there are oncoming cars so as not to dazzle the drivers. It’s intelligent technology and even cars a few price classes higher do not have such technology.

For the lowest-priced variant, there is still the convenience of an Auto High Beam which means that the driver does not have to keep switching between high and low beams. Whenever the headlights of a vehicle are detected, the high beams will automatically be switched to low beams, reverting when there is no longer a vehicle approaching. Imagine if all companies in Malaysia were like Perodua and provided this as standard, night driving would be less tiring without the glare of strong headlights.

Incidentally, all variants have LED headlights which usually have a longer service life. They are also equipped with a follow-me-home function that keeps them on for a while after the car is locked. This provides illumination of the ground ahead for peace of mind.

The top two variants also get a reverse camera but the Ativa AV gets Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) as well. Again, this is a feature that has yet to be found in models of this price class. RCTA uses the rear sensors to monitor the situation on either side as the vehicle is reversing out of a parking bay. The driver might not be able to see due to adjacent cars blocking the view, but if the sensors pick up approaching vehicles, an alert will be sounded so that an accident can be avoided.

Besides the A.S.A. and active safety systems, the Ativa also comes with a very comprehensive list of other safety items – standard for all variants. These include 6 airbags (4 at the sides), Vehicle Stability Control, ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Hillhold Assist. ISOFIX points are, of course, provided since parents must now have put small children in childseats. ISOFIX-compatible childseats are convenient to install and stay securely in place.

Infotainment and connectivity

These days, every model has to have a capable infotainment system with good connectivity to provide the driver with more useful features as well as connect to smartphones. The top two variants come with a 9-inch LCD touchscreen with a bright and spacious display. There is also Smart Link (for Android devices) and Voice Recognition that allows active voice commands for certain functions.

Storage and convenience features

The interior designers have made sure that everyone in the cabin has spaces to keep their stuff and there are also USB ports that can provide power to recharge devices. Some clever ideas for storage spaces – a slot by the side of the gearlever housing, and slide-out cupholders in front of the vents on either side of the dashboard (good for keeping drinks cool!).

All variants have Smart Entry and Start/Stop System which does not require using a key or even pressing on the remote (but it has to be in the pocket or handbag). The doors can be unlocked by touching an electrostatic button on the door handle, and the engine can be started or stopped with the press of a button.

Instrumentation

While the Ativa X comes with a conventional instrument panel, the Ativa H and AV have a customisable display to change how the information is presented to the driver. The speed is always shown as a digital display while the fuel level is a bar graph. However, the tachometer can be configured in one of four graphic styles. Additionally, there is also a Reminder Display which will flash reminders on special days.

GearUp accessories

As with every Perodua model currently on sale, there is also a range of specially developed accessories to go with the adventurous looks. The items include a bodykit, front and rear seat upholstery, luggage tray, bumper protectors, luggage net, high quality coil mats and even an insulation kit for the bonnet. Prices range from RM80 to RM2,500 (in Peninsular Malaysia).

The GearUp accessories include a bonnet insulator kit which has pads that can be inserted in cavities in the bonnet panel. These pads can absorb engine noises to give a quieter ride.

There are also many other general accessories, all of which have been evaluated by Perodua so you can be sure they are of high quality, Furthermore, for the GearUp accessories that have to be installed, these are by Perodua’s own installers so the job will be professionally done. And the cost of all the extras can be included in the total loan for the vehicle if you specify them at the time of the purchase. That means the extra cost is also repaid over a number of years… something which no accessory shop would be give you.

To locate a showroom to view, test-drive or buy the new Perodua Ativa, visit
www.perodua.com.my
.

‘Perodua Smart Build’ launched as carmaker’s first sustainable blueprint


Hyundai develops world’s first performance control for commercial EV

Hyundai Motor Group is upping their tech game with the introduction of the world’s first performance control for commercial EV complete with the ability to determine the gross weight of light duty commercial electric vehicle and optimizing their performance.

The South Korean giant in the industry was able to achieve this by utilizing acceleration sensors to optimize the vehicle’s settings based on current gross weight estimate. This technology is being considered by Hyundai Motor Group for use on future light duty electric commercial vehicles.

Why is this important? Well, the power and torque output of any electric vehicle coincides with their estimated range of travel. In short, the more power it churns out for higher performance, the shorter the range of travel it can go.

By determining the vehicle’s gross weight first means that the tech will be able to set and tune the EVs which result in reduction of potential wheel spin and reduced traction (which sometimes happen when carrying less payload).

The new technology also allows for changes in torque output based on topography, altering the amount of torque needed to propel a vehicle uphill based on its gross weight and allowing small business owners to effectively reduce unnecessary vehicle-related costs.

According to Chae Mo Yang, Group Leader of Eco-Technology Performance Development Group, “Hyundai developed this technology because we realize that we need to take a different approach when it comes to developing electric vehicles for commercial use.”

“We are preparing for a future where we will be able to offer commercial EVs that operate at its optimum specifications under any given road condition and regardless of how much payload it is carrying. These vehicles will be very economical to operate.”

In theory, overall efficiency is increase and drivers can estimate their vehicles’ maximum travel distance by adjusting the torque output. Specifically, the potential vehicle range estimate is based on the accurate measurement of the current weight and speed of the vehicle, enhancing efficiency for commercial use.


No more 50 sen charge for TnG reloads at Shell Stations along PLUS Expressways (NKVE and ELITE) and East-Coast Expressways

The day when you no longer have to ‘lose’ 50 sen for every reload of the Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card is fast nearing with more and more places waiving the charge. The latest is Shell Malaysia which has announced that all its stations along the PLUS Expressways (NKVE and ELITE) and the East-Coast Expressway (ECE) will no longer charge the 50 sen.

The broader expansion to all stations along these expressways is an addition to Shell’s recent initiative in waiving the TnG top-up fee at all stations along the North-South Expressway (NSE) earlier in January.  As part of Shell’s effort, the expansion to the number of stations from the earlier initiative also includes 25 other Shell stations at various locations nationwide.

“Shell understands the challenge Malaysians face against the rising cost of living. We know it can be difficult to save when there are increasing necessary expenses like food, transportation, utilities and education, which form a huge part of one’s expenditure. This drives us to help Malaysians save more and ultimately, get more out of their journeys. Hopefully, forgoing the Touch ‘n Go top-up charges at all  stations  along  NSE,  NKVE,  ELITE,  ECE,  and  other  Shell  stations  will give our customers one  less worry  when  travelling or  fuelling  up at Shell during  long  journeys,” said Shairan  Huzani  Husain, MD of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd.

10% surcharge for use of Touch ‘n Go cards at carparks to be removed


First new Honda HR-V delivered to customer in Selangor

Honda Malaysia has begun delivering the new Honda HR-V and the first customer to receive the new crossover SUV was Nurul Hafida binti Mohd Jais. Cik Nurul Hafida received her new vehicle at MJN Motors Sdn. Bhd. in Cheras, Selangor, where she had booked the RS e:HEV version with a red finish.

As the first HR-V owner in Malaysia, she received some extras as token of appreciation from Honda Malaysia. These were Honda Authorized Accessories, Ultra Glass Body Coating and Honda official merchandise valued at RM5,700.

Explaining the reasons why she chose the new Honda, Cik Nurul Hafida said: “I did my research even before the official launch of the All-New HR-V in Malaysia. The exterior styling and looks caught my attention and that’s when I decided to book the model the moment it was opened for booking. I have been anticipating the delivery of my new car and was pleasantly surprised when I found out that I was the first customer to receive the car!”

“What’s even more exciting is the additional surprise of receiving gifts from Honda! I am looking forward to taking my family out and about on my new ride,” she added.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director & CEO, Hironobu Yoshimura, said: “The response we have received for the All-New HR-V has been overwhelming and we believe this new model will be sensational once again as it did in the past. Today, we are excited to deliver the All-New HR-V to the first owner, Cik Nurul Hafida. In addition to this momentous occasion, Honda Malaysia will deliver over 1,300 units of the All-New HR-V within one month of its launch. We would like to take this opportunity to convey our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their continuous support to the Honda brand.”

Demand for the new HR-V is high, according to Wan Hazmi bin Dato’ Wan Mustafa, owner of MJN Motors Sdn. Bhd. “We are so honoured to be the dealer to deliver the first HR-V to our beloved customer! We are committed to continue providing our customers with excellent service in all aspects,” he said.

Read more about the new Honda HR-V here.

The new HR-V is available with a choice of three 1.5-litre powertrains. The RS version has the e:HEV system with Honda’s unique 2-motor hybrid system which generates 131 ps/253 Nm and the other two are a VTEC turbocharged engine (181 ps/240 Nm) and a naturally-aspirated i-VTEC engine (121 ps/145 Nm).

For this second generation, a more modern feel is evident and features available (depending on version) include leather upholstery, sports pedals, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning with an Air Diffusion System, and a Hands-Free Power Tailgate with Walkaway Close function. Honda SENSING, the suite of active safety systems, is standard across the range.

For more information on the latest HR-V or any Honda models, visit any of the 102 authorized Honda dealerships nationwide or
www.honda.com.my
.

All-new Honda HR-V launched in Malaysia with a choice of 4 variants and 3 powertrains


Mazda to introduce all-new e-SKYACTIV-D 3-litre 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine

Contrary to whatever you make think, the internal combustion engine that Rudolf Diesel invented in the late 19
th
 century is not ready to go into the history books yet. The engine named after him that has powered millions of vehicles – and not just motor vehicles – for more than 100 years may have gained a bad reputation at various times in its life, but its robustness and fuel efficiency have made it the preferred choice for commercial vehicles.

The introduction of the commonrail high-pressure fuel delivery system 20 years ago made it more popular for passenger vehicles as it enhanced performance and various solutions were found to reduce its ‘dirty’ image (although ‘dieselgate’ was damaging). Nevertheless, today’s diesel engines, mostly with turbochargers boosting output, are still popular powerplants for vehicles like pick-up trucks and SUVs in the passenger-carrying category.

Mazda began developing its SKYACTIV technologies over 10 years ago to raise fuel efficiency and engine output, and it has been constantly upgrading the technologies which are applicable to both petrol and diesel powerplants.

Mazda has been one of the diesel ‘loyalists’ and used its long engineering expertise to develop powerful, clean and efficient engines as part of the SKYACTIV powertrain family. Like some other Japanese carmakers, Mazda believes that a multi-solution approach is more suitable in the quest to reducing emissions to address climate change. Not all countries will be able to switch to electric vehicles at the same pace and some may still require combustion engines or hybrids, at least.

It has therefore not given up further development on combustion engines, pushing to the limits of the envelope to achieve lower emissions and better performance. It has now revealed an all-new e-SKYACTIV-D diesel engine which will be added to the Mazda CX-60 line-up in 2023.

Super-clean diesel engine

The new diesel engine is a Mazda first – a 3.3-litre unit that features Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology. This highly innovative advanced combustion technology makes the new e-SKYACTIV-D one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world, achieving a thermal efficiency of over 40%.

Developed using the ‘right sizing’ concept which optimises displacement to improve both fuel and power efficiency, the 3283 cc longitudinally installed commonrail electric direct injection 6-cylinder engine will have two power output levels: 200 ps and 254 ps. Depending on the model variant, there will be either 2-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

Uses 48V hybrid boost system

The engine uses a new 48V Mazda M Hybrid Boost system to combine high output with excellent fuel economy. Together with the DCPCI technology, engine efficiency, emissions and fuel economy are improved. These contribute significantly to greater driving range, better performance and yet lower fuel consumption and low emissions.

6-cylinder engines are inherently smooth due to their ‘perfect balance’, which will contribute to drive enjoyment. The engine’s high torque delivery gives strong pulling power, even with a 2,500-kg trailer. Though it has a larger displacement and more cylinder, the e-SKYACTIV-D’s lightweight construction makes it weigh not more than the 2.2-litre Mazda SKYACTIV-D 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine used in the CX-5.

More new powertrains coming

In total, Mazda is launching 5 new electrified products in the next 3 years that feature its multi-solution platform architecture. These will include an in-line straight-six 3-litre e-SKYACTIV petrol engine and an e-Skyactiv PHEV. For the European market, the launch of the new CX-60 will take Mazda further forward in its fleet’s emission reduction to become entirely carbon-neutral by 2050. After 2025, the company will launch its brand new SKYACTIV EV Scalable Architecture which will allow Mazda to efficiently build electric cars of all sizes using one common platform.

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


Fuel Price Updates For June 16 – June 22, 2022


Road closure along KL-Karak Highway near Lentang tonight

If you are travelling along the Karak Highway tonight (Monday, June 27), be advised that a section of about 500 metres of the highway will be closed. The closure for both sides of the highway will be for
30 minutes from 11 pm
 tonight and all lanes are expected to reopen to traffic by 5 am tomorrow (Tuesday, June 28).

According to ANIH Berhad, the operator of the Kuala Lumpur – Karak Highway (KLK) and the East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT1), the closure is to facilitate works on the construction of the ECRL (East Coast Rail Link) which will connect Kota Bharu in Kelantan to Port Klang in Selangor when completed in 2027.

According to Radzimah Mohd Radzi, Senior General Manager, Head of ANIH Berhad, the closure is to give access to heavy machinery involved in the construction of the ECRL Genting tunnel. “Both bounds from KM55.35 to KM 55.85 (Lentang) will be closed entirely to traffic to ensure the safety of our users remain top priority. ANIH Berhad would also like to remind our users to plan their journey ahead of time or delay it, if possible,” Puan Radzimah said.

Only the left lanes will be accessible to traffic on both bounds after 11.30 pm tonight and ANIH Berhad is expecting to reopen all lanes by 5 am on Tuesday morning.

Puan Radzimah reminds road-users to drive responsibly and to adhere to traffic personnel on-site and also ensure their vehicles are in good condition before starting their journey.

The latest information on activities at the highways can be found at the official social media pages of the Malaysian Highway Authority/ANIH Berhad on Twitter @LLMTrafik @LPTTrafik and Facebook @Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia @Lebuhraya Pantai Timur. Motorists can also call the LLM Hotline at 1800-88-7752 and LPT-Line at 1-700-818-700.

Additionally, if you want to have an idea of conditions along the highways, you can view CCTV images at
Jalanow.com
.

Guide to buying a Digital Video Recorder (dashcam)


All-new Toyota Veloz to replace Avanza, bookings now open

July looks like a ‘MPV month’ with at least three new MPVs to be launched in the month or if not, early in the next month. We already know that the
updated Nissan Serena S-HYBRID
 will be launched in early July and with Perodua having opened bookings for its
all-new Alza
 from yesterday, it is likely to be in showrooms by the end of July (going by the usual time-frame).

And today, UMW Toyota Motor has announced that it is accepting orders for the all-new Toyota Veloz, the 7-seater MPV launched in Indonesia last November. Depending on the market, the Veloz is considered as a new model line or as a successor to the
Avanza
. In Malaysia, UMWT says it will replace the Avanza and comes with the highest specification and advanced features. The estimated price is given as RM95,000, without insurance.

Note: All images shown on this page are of the versions sold in Thailand and Indonesia. The Veloz assembled in Malaysia may have differences in colours and features.

The Veloz is considered more as a crossover with a SUV character but also having the spaciousness of a MPV – the best of both worlds. Like the
Toyota Rush
, it will be assembled locally at the Perodua plant, which makes sense since the new Alza is also having the same platform as the Veloz. It’s not known how many variants there are although the option of a two-tone colour scheme with a black roof suggests that there may be a high-end version.

With an entirely new style and a larger body size, the Veloz of generous interior space said to be comparable to a-segment MPV. The seating in the premium-class cabin is also flexible in layout, allowing more cargo or people to be carried. One reason for the increased spaciousness is that,  unlike the Avanza, which had rear wheel drive, the Veloz has front-wheel drive

A 1.5-litre Toyota 2NR-VE petrol 4-cylinder engine powers the Veloz and this is coupled with a 7-speed CVT, so fuel efficiency should be pretty good. The CVT also offers sequential shifting for those who prefer to be in control of the gears in use.

As with many of the models sold by UMWT, the Veloz will come with Toyota Safety Sense technology. This is a suite of active safety systems that will help the driver be alerted of potential accidents and even act if he or she doesn’t respond in the correct way (eg with Automatic Emergency Braking).

A convenient feature is the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) which replaces the long and traditional handle that has operated the mechanical brake for decades. With the EPB, very little effort is needed; in fact, just a slight pull with a fingertip on the small tab will activate the brake. The Veloz will also come with a wireless charging pad (Qi standard) for compatible smartphones.

“We are extremely pleased to announce that the All-New Toyota Veloz will soon be launched  in Malaysia. At UMW Toyota Motor, we are committed to go that extra mile for our Toyota customers and ensure that they experience only the best. With the SST exemption ending on June 30, 2022, commencing the order-taking for the All-New Toyota Veloz today is a token of  appreciation to our customers for their support towards the Toyota brand and enabling them to drive the car of their dreams. We hope that Toyota fans and other potential buyers looking to purchase a car for their family will take the opportunity to do so and leverage on the SST exemption before it ends,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran. K.

No further exemption of sales tax after June 30, but registration can be in 2023


Volkswagen ID.4 is the third EV to win World Car of the Year title

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

The
Volkswagen ID.4
 becomes the third all-electric model to be chosen as World Car of the Year (WCOTY) in the 2021 edition of the awards. 93 international journalists from 28 countries that make up the World Car Awards jury panel chose the EV, giving the German carmaker its fifth WCOTY overall award since 2009 (the WCOTY started in 2005).

This year’s winner was chosen from an initial entry list of 24 vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of three finalists as announced on March 30, 2021. The Top Three in the World finalists for 2021 were the Honda e,
Toyota Yaris
 and Volkswagen ID.4.

Since the event began in 2005, Volkswagen models have so far won 5 overall World Car of the Year awards, the most of any carmaker.

Vehicles eligible for the World Car of the Year award must be produced in volumes of at least 10,000 units/year; must be priced below the luxury-car level in their primary markets; and must be ‘on sale’ in at least two major markets, on at least two separate continents, between May 1, 2020 and May 1, 2021.

Category winners

Other WCOTY category winners from the 24 contenders were the
Honda e
 (World Urban Car),
Land Rover Defender
 (World Car Design),
Porsche 911 Turbo
 (World Performance Car), and
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
 (World Luxury Car). Earlier, the same organisation had also picked Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, as
2021 World Person of the Year
.

The Land Rover Defender, which won the World Car Design of the Year award, was also the 2021 Women’s Car of the Year winner.

New award for EVs in 2022

The 2022 awards season and the 18
th
 edition of the Road to the World Car Awards journey will officially begin at the New York International Auto Show on August 19. A new highlight of the 2022 awards program will be the debut of the World Electric Vehicle of the Year award. This new award, which supersedes the World Green Car award, is intended to recognize, support and celebrate the global transition to electrically-powered vehicles that is now underway and the efforts of automakers around the world in developing these climate-conscious vehicles.

First generation of the Nissan LEAF was the first EV to win the World Car of the Year title in 2011.

PREVIOUS OVERALL AWARD WINNERS

2020 – Kia Telluride

2019 – Jaguar I-PACE

2018 – Volvo XC60

2017 – Jaguar F-PACE

2016 – Mazda MX-5

2015 – Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2014 – Audi A3

2013 – Volkswagen Golf

2012 – Volkswagen UP!

2011 – Nissan LEAF

2010 – Volkswagen Polo

2009 – Volkswagen Golf 7

2008 – Mazda2

2007 – Lexus LS460

2006 – BMW 3-Series

2005 – Audi A6

Akio Toyoda is 2021 World Car Person of the Year


Mercedes-EQ EQE 350+ Joins EV Range In Malaysia

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today launched the Mercedes-Benz EQE, which joins the EQA, EQB, EQC and EQS in the all-electric Mercedes-EQ range in Malaysia. Priced from RM419,888 with tax exemption, the EQE sedan looks like a scaled-down version of the EQS and is essentially the ‘E-Class’ of the Mercedes-EQ range. It is thus positioned as the business sedan of the future.

As with the carmaker’s other EV models, the EQE 350+ uses EVA2 architecture which is the first of two platforms for its EV models (the other being the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture to be used later on).

Sleeker design language
With the Mercedes-EQ models (at least for the sedans), there is a marked departure from the formal and upright style that has been used for decades. The forms are sleeker with the design language which the carmaker calls ‘sensual purity’. This is not only for aesthetic progression but more importantly for having the best possible aerodynamic efficiency, vital for EVs.

With aerodynamics prioritized, the shape is very clean and flowing, the front end having a closed panel since airflow in not required through the traditional grille. There is still the recognizable ‘face’ though it is clear that evolution is taking place in Mercedes design.

While the EQS has a dominating presence with its larger dimensions, the EQE appears better proportioned with its overall length of 4946 mm which is 180 mm shorter while the wheelbase is 90 mm less at 3120 mm. Compared to the latest E-Class, the EQE occupies an almost similar footprint though it has additional width.

Single motor, rear-wheel drive
The EQE 350+ version comes with rear-wheel drive and a single motor generating a maximum output of 292 ps/565 Nm. The motor on the rear axle is particularly powerful due to its 6-phase design having 2 windings with 3 phases each. Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is claimed to be 6.4 seconds for the 2,355 kg car, with a top speed of 210 km/h.

Engine bay of the future.

A large-capacity 90.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides a claimed range of between 587 kms and 669 kms. As for recharging time, depending on the charging station, the time can be 32 minutes from 10% to 80% at a DC fast-charge station, or 8.25 hours with an AC home charger.

Consistently high performance and multiple accelerations without a drop in power characterize the EQE’s drive philosophy. This includes a sophisticated thermal concept and several variants of energy recovery by means of recuperation in this process. This helps extend range even while the car is being driven.

Avant garde approach to interior
The EVA2 architecture has given the Mercedes-Benz interior designers new opportunities to create an avant-garde cockpit. The dashboard surface, covered with little stars, is flanked by turbine vents with a large MBUX display panel in the middle. The theme is ‘hyperanalogue’ through the contrast between high-tech precision mechanics and digital, glass display world.

Like the EQS, the MBUX is the latest generation and has software with a control and display concept which completely adapts to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. With the zero-layer design, the user does not have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands. The most important applications are offered situationally and contextually on the top level in the field of view. This reduces interaction time, allowing the driver to remain more focussed on the road ahead.

Navigation with Electric Intelligence plans the fastest and most convenient route, based on numerous factors and reacts dynamically to traffic jams or a change in driving style, for example. This includes a visualisation in the MBUX infotainment system as to whether the available battery capacity is sufficient to return to the starting point without charging.

The standard Burmester surround sound system comes with two soundscapes – Silver Waves Vivid Flux and Roaring Pulse. Silver Waves is a sensuous and clean sound, while Vivid Flux is crystalline, synthetic yet humanly warm sound created for EV enthusiasts. For those who want something reminiscent of powerful machines, there is also the Roaring Pulse experience with its sonorous and extroverted sound.

Being a model in the luxury class, the EQE 350+ would already have NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) suppressed to very low levels. Furthermore, being electrically powered also reduces mechanical noise levels. Nevertheless, the engineers have still added insulation in areas around the drivetrains and insert acoustic foam into many carriers.

Passive and active safety
The fact that the EQE 350+ is based on an all-electric architecture has opened up new design possibilities for its safety concept. It means, for example, that a favourable location in the underbody can be chosen for the installation of the battery, with better protection during crashes. And without the mass of a combustion engine with its crankcase, the behaviour in a frontal crash can also be modelled in a better way.

As with every Mercedes-Benz models, there is a rigid passenger cell encircling the cabin with special deformation zones to absorb or dissipate impact forces before they can cause harm to the occupants. PRE-SAFE, which is has used for a long time, is an accident sensing developed by Mercedes-Benz which prepares the occupant compartment by optimizing passenger safety in the moments preceding a collision or single-car crash, including a rollover event.

These days, manufacturers don’t just install systems to prevent accidents but make the active system assist the driver in being aware and avoid accidents. In the EQE 350+, there is the Driving Assistance Plus package that includes systems such as Active Distance DISTRONIC, Active Stop-and Go Assist, Active Steering Assist with Hands-off warning and Active Lane Keeping Assist.

Local assembly in future
With the government offering extended tax exemption to those companies which decided to assemble their EVs locally, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is now making plans to do so in the next few years. To enjoy the exemption which will enable them to offer their models at lower retail prices, they would have to start assembling before the end of 2025.

Assembling electrified models, ie the hybrid models, earlier took many years of preparation at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia plant in Pekan, Pahang. Issues such as safe handling of the high-voltage systems had to be fully covered before assembly could be allowed to start. Now that such safety matters have already been set, the transition to battery electric vehicles can take place faster. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz Thailand has also announced its plan to assemble the EQS so that could give a clue as to what model will be assembled in Malaysia in future.

EQS450+ leads the fully electric Mercedes-EQ range in Malaysia

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 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Fuel Price Updates For October 17 – 23, 2020


LOOKING BACK: When Mazda made the first and only rotary pick-up truck in the world

The history of the Mazda BT-50 goes back over 50 years and along the way, in the mid-1970s, the carmaker developed and sold the first and only production pick-up truck with a rotary engine. As is well known, Mazda was the only company that successfully commercialised the rotary engine (also known as the Wankel engine) and installed it in a number of models.

With its commitment to the rotary engine, it was only natural that it would look for as many models as possible to use the powerplant and seven years after launching the world’s first production car with a rotary engine, in 1974, the company developed a variant of the second-generation B-Series truck with a powerful rotary engine.

The truck had a simple name: Rotary Pick-Up and used the 1.3-litre (13B) 4-cylinder version with two rotors. According to the American Road & Track magazine, the power output was 110 bhp/158 Nm and fuel consumption was 14.3 kms/litre. It went from 0 to 60 mph (96.5 km/h) in 11 seconds, certainly a lot quicker than other trucks.

Priced at US$3,500 then, the Rotary Pick-Up was sold mostly in North America. Production at the Hiroshima factory began in 1974 and continued till 1977 and some 15,000 units were believed to have been made.

The rotary engine had no pistons and instead used rotors inside the combustion chanbers.

An advertisement published in America in 1975 for the Rotary Pick-Up.

The 1970s were a time when the energy crisis was on and the rotary engine’s inherent drawback of high consumption quickly diminished it popularity. During that decade too, emission control regulations became tougher and the Mazda engineers found it difficult to make the rotary engine cleaner. So the Rotary Pick-Up never continued into the next generation although the B-Series went on and even became a jointly-developed product with Ford which called their model the Ranger.

To know more about today’s Mazda pick-up truck, the BT-50, visit
www.mazda.com.my
.

Mazda starts 100th anniversary celebrations in Hiroshima


Mitsubishi To Sell Only EVs and Hybrids by Mid-2030s

The Japanese automaker has announced a new strategy to keep up with the electric competitive market by strengthening its electrification approach.

By the middle of the following decade, Mitsubishi plans for hybrid and electric vehicles to make up all new automobile sales.

Plug-in hybrids (PHEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV) are all regarded as electrified vehicles by Mitsubishi.

As a member of an alliance with fellow Japanese automaker Nissan and French automaker Renault, Mitsubishi also announced plans to roll out 16
new vehicle
 models over the next five years.

These models will include two more fully electric vehicles, five hybrid vehicles, a Nissan model, and a Renault battery-electric vehicle. Seven of the automobiles will use standard internal combustion engines.

Chief Executive Takao Kato said, “Among our existing models, we’ll expand the geographical areas where our flagship PHEV Outlander is being offered and build out the sales of the Minicab-MiEV light commercial EV that was relaunched last year.”

Although it entered the EV industry early, Tesla and other companies have long since overshadowed Mitsubishi, especially in Europe. Only 7% of the company’s sales in its 2021 fiscal year were hybrids or electric vehicles, according to Reuters.


Mercedes-Benz Unimog truck sets world altitude record while assisting expedition team in Chile

The Unimog by Mercedes-Benz is a true go-anywhere all-terrain vehicle, born over 70 years ago and sold in 30 countries. At least 400,000 units have been sold to date, used for all sorts of transportation in extreme conditions.

When it comes to scientific expeditions in all places and climates around our planet, the Unimog would be ideal, as an expedition team believed. The 10-strong team had a task to install 4 emergency radio units at various high-altitude camps at a volcano known as Ojos del Salado in Chile. In an emergency, each of the units can be used to create a radio connection with the 3 other base camps of the Ojos del Salado. This system will improve the safety both for mountaineers and scientific researchers.

Ojos del Salado in Chile

The volcanic mountain measures 6893 metres and is thus the tallest active volcano on earth. It is within the Atacama Desert – one of the driest places on earth and part of the Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’ which has many active volcanos and earth movements.

Customised for the extreme conditions

The team was supported by Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks which provided two Unimog U 5023 vehicles of the latest generation. These were configured to carry the expedition team and all of their equipment required to the extreme altitudes. To ensure that the vehicles were ready to tackle any challenges, both trucks were equipped with special tyres, strong winches and special bodies with variable centre of gravity balancing developed by the specialists at the Unimog Museum, Unimog bodybuilder AS Soder, and engineers from the Unimog development team.

Absolute world record set

After the team made it to the high-altitude camp at 6,100 metres and had completed the installation of the fourth emergency radio unit there, they set about achieving another milestone: breaking the altitude record for wheeled vehicles. This was with one of the two trucks which reached an altitude of 6,694 metres – no vehicle has climbed to such heights before anywhere around the world.

The team didn’t just beat the record set with a Mercedes-Benz Zetros in 2014 but they also set the absolute world record for a wheeled vehicle driving at altitude. According to the head of the expedition, both vehicles ‘mastered the extremely steep and rocky passages, thanks to a combination of the best, reliable technology, a balanced centre of gravity and amazing tyre technology to bring the materials and equipment to these enormous heights. At no point in time around the world have motorised altitude expeditions taken two trucks simultaneously to such an altitude’.


Rolls-Royce Takes Bespoke To New Heights With ‘Wraith Luminary Collection’ [+Videos]

In a bold expression of dynamic luxury,
Rolls-Royce
 has unveiled the
Wraith Luminary Collection
. Inspired by those who lead where others follow, the Wraith Luminary Collection will light the way for the luxury trailblazer, quite literally…

In response to an ongoing global demand for Rolls-Royce Collection Cars, the marque has created a
Limited Collection
 of just
55
 of these spectacular Wraiths. These motor cars join the highly exclusive ranks of collectible Bespoke masterpieces, envisioned by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke design team and collected by Patrons of true luxury all over the world. Watch the
video
 below…

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
, commented,
“Wraith Luminary is a stunning Collection Car. It speaks directly of our contemporary Rolls-Royce brand – progressive and trailblazing; the pinnacle in hand-crafted luxury. This is a motor car that celebrates visionaries who achieve eminence in their respective fields. Indeed, this collection is for the world’s luminaries.”

The heady shade of the golden hour’s sunrays inspire this newly developed exterior paint,
Sunburst Grey
. One is met by a flat grey that enlivens when awoken by the sun, rich copper tones, emitting a deep emotive warmth. Further intrigue is added by a hand-painted Sunburst Motif coachline, hand-painted Wake Channel Lines on Wraith’s bonnet and pinstripes applied to the wheel centres, each in Saddlery Tan, bearing reference to the colourway of the interior leather.

Energy courses through this highly charged edition of Wraith. On opening the coach doors, one is met by a statement of modern luxury, as light flows from the front into the rear passenger compartment. The Collection’s defining feature, Tudor Oak wood, sourced from the forests of the Czech Republic, selected for its depth of colour and the density of the grain structure, is for the first time, illuminated.

The light of 176 LEDs or Celestial Starlight Headliner, permeates through an intricately perforated design in the unique Tudor Oak veneer, allowing a mesmerizing pattern, reminiscent of the trailing light of a shooting star, to luminesce at the touch of a button. Linked to the controls of the starlight headliner, the cabin’s veneer surrounds Wraith’s occupants in an ambient glow of light.

Speaking of shooting stars, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective, a talented group of engineers, designers and craftspeople located at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, have brought further theatre to the cabin of Luminary in the form of brilliant shooting stars. The prized Rolls-Royce starlight headliner, a handwoven configuration of 1340 fibre optic lights which act as a glittering night sky, takes a bold new step as it incorporates shooting stars into the constellation; a playful display of light that creates wonderment and awe for the car’s passengers.

Taking nearly 20 hours to configure, eight shooting stars fire at random, predominantly over the front seats, in recognition of Wraith’s owner-driver appeal. Wraith Luminary’s cockpit is trimmed in Saddlery Tan, though the rear seats contrast in Anthracite leather, thus highlighting the prominence of the driver’s position. Contrast piping and stitching masterfully marry the front aesthetic to the rear. Alternatively, a more dramatic contrast can be selected by specifying Seashell coloured leather in the rear, both of which will be perfectly coalesced by the inclusion of a two-tone steering wheel.

The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective continually seeks inspiration from external trends and influences. In a progressive step, the application of hand-woven stainless steel fabric, a highly contemporary and innovative new technique in luxury craft, is appointed to the central transmission tunnel and door panniers, contrasting the Tudor Oak wood and Saddlery Tan leather.

Incorporating strands which are 0.08mm – 0.19mm in diameter, this technical fibre is woven in a pattern oriented at precisely 45 degrees, to complement the lines of the interior and provide a uniform appearance throughout the passenger compartment when viewed from either side. Taking three days to produce in a ‘clean room’ environment, the fabric is manipulated to cloak the centre console, modified from use in an industrial environment to create a finish befitting the interior of a Rolls-Royce motor car, refracting the light of the unique illuminated paneling in the doors.

As a final touch, the car’s tread plates bear the provenance of this unique collection.
‘WRAITH LUMINARY COLLECTION – ONE OF FIFTY-FIVE’
 is engraved in hand-polished stainless steel.

Since its incarnation, Wraith has long attracted the patronage of visionaries – drawn to the intoxicating promise of near unlimited power and it’s hauntingly rakish fast-back design, a true gentleman’s gran tourismo fabricated par excellence. The remarkable success of Wraith in attracting a new generation of drivers to the marque is reflected in this distinctive motor car’s masterfully incorporated, innovative expressions of pure luxury. Rolls-Royce
is
 Bespoke.

Rolls-Royce Wraith Luminary Collection Photo Gallery…


Bugatti Chiron Sport versus Dassault Rafale Marine (w/VIDEO)

Drag races between supercars and aircraft are rare and do not take place very often as it would not be easy to get permission, especially if such an exercise which uses military equipment like a fighter jet. But once in a while, a publication or manufacturer can get the permission to organise and Bugatti was able to do so recently.

The French carmaker was able to arrange for its Chiron Sport – which has a top speed of over 400 km/h – to challenge the Dassault Rafale Marine, a French fighter jet that can fly at more than Mach 1.6 or around 1,975 km/h.

Second duel with a jet fighter

The high-octane rendezvous between the two super machines took place at a naval base in the north-west of France. It was not the first time a Bugatti challenged a jet before; in 2007, a Veyron 16.4 took on a Eurofighter Typhoon in a drag race. In the latest duel, the Chiron Sport and the Rafale Marine would be measured up against one another in acceleration, torque and even braking behaviour.

It wasn’t a matter of turning up on the runway and taking off. There was an elaborate process taking many weeks of planning to even the most minute detail. “Precision and preparation are everything. Everything happens very quickly in the Rafale Marine and every move you make has to be right. And the same goes for the Chiron Sport at high speeds,” explained French Navy pilot Etienne. “At high speeds, everything has to go perfectly both in the Chiron Sport and the Rafale Marine. The runway isn’t all that long or terribly wide for the both of us. This comparison will be a challenge for everyone,” added Pierre-Henri Raphanel, who drove the hypercar.

This encounter with a jet was a first for Raphanel, a racing driver. “We may only be driving straight ahead on a runway but setting off alongside a jet demands a great deal of attention and concentration, especially at high speeds,” he explained. With the Chiron Sport, it is the combination of seemingly never-ending power output and torque – 1,500 ps and 1,600 Nm – that delivers incredible thrust.

The hypercar takes the lead

It wasn’t surprising that the 8-litre Chiron Sport had the lead soon after taking off. The hypercar accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.4 seconds and then reached 200 km/h after just 3.7 seconds. 13.1 seconds after leaving the start line, it was already at a speed of 300 km/h and the total time it took to reach 400 km/h was 32.6 seconds.

“I pulled away from the Rafale over the first few hundred metres, but after a few hundred metres more, it was around 20 metres above and alongside me in the air. An incredible and fantastic sight!” recalled Raphanel later.

For the aircraft, it was a different measurement: it passed 165 km/h after 150 metres and 210 km/h after 250 metres, and lifted off the runway after 450 metres at around 260 km/h.

Stopping from high speed

To be able to decelerate stably at high speeds, both machines use extra-special brakes. The Bugatti driver initiated his braking manoeuvre after approximately 1.5 kms, at which time it was doing over 350 km/h. The stopping power was provided by a powerful brake system with disks with a diameter of 420 mm at the front (with 8 pistons) and 400 mm at the back (with 7 pistons).

It takes the Chiron Sport 491 metres to come to a standstill from 400 km/h. It covers 114 metres when decelerating from 200 to 0 km/h. Due to the shortness of the runway and the safety regulations, the Chiron Sport braked at just 210 km/h and the Rafale Marine at 250 km/h.

To compare its braking performance with that of the Chiron Sport, the Rafale Marine approaches the runway at approximately 280 km/h, makes contact with the ground, and catches the arresting gear with its tailhook on the rear, just like on an aircraft carrier. The plane comes to a standstill within 150 metres. “It’s a very extreme sensation, as if you were driving into a wall or like a controlled fall,” said Etienne. The Chiron Sport brakes powerfully but with less abruptness. “With the air brake at the rear, the Bugatti remains incredibly directionally stable, even during abrupt braking manoeuvres down from high speeds,” explained Raphanel.

A Bugatti engine on your wrist


KTM X-BOW GT2 Racer Becomes Road-Legal X-BOW GT-XR

KTM, the Austrian company (with India’s Bajaj Auto as a shareholder), is well known for its motorcycles but it also has a line of 4-wheelers that have been in production since 2008. Known as the X-BOW, the sportscar was developed in collaboration with Dallara, Kiska Design and Audi.

The X-BOW was developed with motorsports in mind (it is FIA-homologated) and has seen good demand that the company raised the annual production plan from 500 units to 1,000 units. Since entering the market 14 years ago, the model has been improved with upgrades to the TFSI engine provided by Audi.

X-BOW in GT4 racing

The first X-BOW produced 240 ps/310 Nm with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 217 km/h. By 2011, the output rose to 304 ps/400 Nm and the X-BOW GT2 has had numerous race wins and a title in the GT2 European Series. By 2017, a GT4 version with a closed cockpit was also introduced.

The sporting roots and successes inspired KTM to develop a road-legal version which was recently launched. Known as the X-BOW GT-XR, it used the X-BOW GT2 as the technical basis. Handbuilt, the GT-XR uses a lot of lightweight technology, including a fully carbonfibre monocoque chassis. This enables it to weigh just 1,130 kgs, with the safety cell accounting for 89 kgs of that weight.

The 2.5-litre turbocharged 5-cylinder engine (which powers the Audi RS3) has an output of 500 ps/581 Nm which goes through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and mechanical limited-slip rear differential to the rear wheels.

With the output and light weight, the performance claims are 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 280 km/h.

The X-BOW’s unique shape, with a jet fighter-style canopy, has a puristic design. It’s an extreme fully functional form with aerodynamics as a priority. Because the 2-seater is meant for use on public roads, it has all the conveniences of a passenger car and space to store luggage.

Standing 1.2 metres high, its length of 4.6 metres and width of 2.0 metres (on a wheelbase of 2.85 metres) covers an area around the same size as a Chevrolet Corvette. For those who expect to drive over roads with a lot of bumps (not uncommon these days), KTM can install a hydraulic lift.

KTM will be making no more than 100 units of the X-BOW GT-XR each year from 2023. Each unit will have an ex-factory price starting from 284,900 euros (around RM1.3 million).

Wiesmann reveals ‘Project Thunderball’, its all-new electric sportscar