Porsche World Road Show 2021: The Ultimate Driving Experience!

The Porsche World Road Show is a unique event that takes place the world over.

It is held at circuits that allow a driver to fully exploit a Porsche’s potential.

And when it comes to the Cayenne, rather than on-circuit driving, the now iconic SUV is driven on dirt tracks to show off its off-roading capabilities.

The PWRS in short, was recently held at the Sepang International Circuit.

And the entire circuit was booked, because half-track driving in a Porsche is borderline nonsense.

The cars were pretty amazing too – we got to spend time behind the wheel of the Cayenne, Macan GTS, Macan Turbo, Taycan Turbo and the Taycan Turbo S.

The star of the show though was the new 992 Porsche GT3. A car so brilliant that it deserved an article of its own,
which you can read here
.

Our day started in the Taycan Turbo S – a car deemed as the hardest accelerating electric car ever built.

It does the 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 260km/h.

The electric motors that power the car are also some of, if not the best in the industry.

The motors give the car 622hp and 1050Nm of torque.

But with the overboost function selected, the car puts out a staggering 750hp!

Of course, such amazing capabilities doesn’t come cheap – the Taycan Turbo S costs an eye watering RM1.15 million!

Then we hopped into the Taycan Turbo.

I do wish we would have done it the other way around though.

Because after the brutality of the Turbo S – the Taycan felt subdued. Like a hungover horse being asked to gallop.

But despite that, it too puts out some unworldly numbers.

It too offers 622hp but torque stands lower at 850Nm.

However, unlike the Turbo S, the Turbo puts out 670hp when you select the overboost function.

The Turbo though is slightly more affordable than the Turbo S, with prices starting from a little over RM963,000.

This was the first time I got to drive both Taycans.

There was a similar drive event held at SIC when Porsche introduced the Taycan to the Malaysian market earlier this year.

But back then, we had passed our seat to legendary Malaysian rally driver Karamjit Singh to get his thoughts on a car the world was raving about.

You can watch that video below.

As a first timer behind the wheel of the Taycan, it was the acceleration that really blew me away, especially in the Turbo S.

Handling too was sharp but that is to be expected of a Porsche.

But you really do feel the weight of the car because the Taycan weighs over two tons.

You feel this going into corners, but then the acceleration more than makes up for it.

The brakes too felt spongy, but that is a typical character of electric and hybrid cars as the brake pedal also regenerates the batteries.

So you don’t really feel the initial bite of the brakes, and if you get caught out by it, you could end up with an expensive repair bill.

But once you learn to trust the brakes though, you realise that behind all that sponginess is the same iconic Porsche anchors that the German marque is so well known for.

We later jumped into the Cayenne for a spot of off-roading.

The off-road section was a purpose built course on the outskirt of the SIC.

The course was initially designed for dirt bikes.

But it was also a perfect place to display the Cayenne’s off-roading abilities.

In just about 300-500 metres, we found out that the Cayenne could hold its own in gravel, some loose mud, and some very uneven surfaces.

This involved some dabbing on the massive touch screen at the centre to raise the ride height of the Cayenne.

And some further dabbing was needed to tell the Cayenne that you were about to take it off-road.

And then you drive.

The off-road section is where the Cayenne truly put on a show as it sent power to wheels that were planted on the ground.

And sent zero power to wheels that were hanging in the air.

Intelligent is an understatement.

But I wasn’t too surprised here, because the Cayenne has already been proven to be a very capable off-roader plenty of times before.

If you didn’t already know, a couple of years ago, a few rally teams had contested the Cayenne in the gruesome Trans-Siberian rally that takes place in Russia, Siberia and Mongolia every spring.

It is a hardcore 4,400km rally where only road-legal cars with a few modifications are allowed.

The Porsche Cayenne won that race three years in a row.

There’s even a special edition Cayenne to commemorate that feat.

So there really is no better testament to the Cayenne’s off-roading capabilities than that.

But the Cayenne is unlikely to be used in such a manner, but just in case you needed to drive your Cayenne to the end of the world, know that you could.

After spending time with the Cayenne, we jumped into the Macan – a baby-SUV named after a Tiger.

This is another SUV that does not need any introduction, but it was a refreshment of sorts to show what it is really capable of doing when the road opens up.

First the Macan GTS.

I love Porsche’s GTS models because it’s a nod to what cars were like in the past.

Fun beasts that make you miss the old times when men drank their whisky (or whiskey if you’re so inclined) without worrying about it being fake, and chased girls without their antics being posted on social media.

There was a time when the GTS models were pure naturally-aspirated models.

But times have changed and the Macan GTS is now a twin-turbo’d V6 model with a 2.9-litre engine putting out 437hp and 550Nm of torque.

It’s still capable of some brutal numbers though with the 0-100km/h sprint seen off in a little over four seconds with a top speed rated at 272km/h.

These are numbers that were once associated with the top of the line Macan Turbo.

Of course, we were not given a chance to fully exploit its potential.

Just enough to tell you that acceleration was fantastic, and that it makes some encouraging sounds along the way, and that for an SUV that weighs a little under two tons, it actually handles quite well.

I was quite surprised by the brakes though because they lacked that initial bite.

Porsche didn’t give us the spec sheet of all the cars we drove but I suspect the Macan GTS had regular brakes fitted rather than the optional Porsche Surface Coated Brakes or the Ceramic Brakes. Both optional of course.

The Macan Turbo though was a whole different ball game, and that’s the car we got to drive next.

The Macan Turbo is the big dog of the Macan line-up. The Macan you want to have.

It offers the same performance figures as the Macan GTS, and that’s because the updated Turbo model is yet to be introduced.

Despite that, the driving experience between the two is vastly different.

Both cars have twin-turbo engines.

But the engine note in the Turbo is deeper while the GTS has a screaming engine note that mimics a naturally-aspirated engine.

It almost sounds like the sound has been artificially induced and piped into the cabin through the speakers, similar to what Porsche has done with the Taycan.

Artificially induced sounds are not new to the industry, but it is a bit of a let down because there’s nothing better than a raw engine note. Not what a car maker thinks an engine should sound like.

But it is what it is.

And that is quickly overlooked as you put your foot down and the car lurches forward before your brain even registers what is going on.

Jumping from the GTS into the Turbo, we really didn’t think the difference will be all that big. But it is truly vast.

Perhaps it is the way that power is delivered, or how the sound is generated. But the performance in the Macan Turbo is how a Porsche should ideally perform.

Brakes too are much more confidence inspiring in the Turbo model we drove.

We found ourselves braking later and turning in deeper into a corner. A true performance machine the Macan Turbo definitely was.

And that is no surprise considering the Turbo is the flagship model of the Macan line up.

Our experience at the Porsche World Road Show at SIC ended with the Macans.

And though it was similar to the one we attended in 2018/2019, it was still perfectly laid out for us to experience Porsches at their finest.

And if there is one thing we can say about modern Porsches, it is that they are a complete paradox.

On one side you have a race car for the road with the GT3.

And on another side you have a tree-hugging electric supercar in the Taycan Turbo S.

Then you have the ultra-capable go anywhere Cayenne.

And the Macans are the cute in betweens if you don’t want something too big but with fun performance.

If there is one car maker that is completely future-proof to whatever may come in the next 10 years, it would be Porsche.

And there are rumours that Porsche may make an entry into the wonderful world of Formula 1.

Either as an engine supplier or as a works team remains to be seen.

Whatever comes, it is an awesome time to be a Porsche owner.


Want F1 Fuel For Your Car? It Will Cost You RM17,000 Per Tank!

In this article, we shed light on the nature of the fuel used in Formula 1 and how it differs from regular fuel. No matter what some brands may claim, the fuel used in Formula 1 cars is in no way similar to the ones used in Formula 1 cars.

The first and most obvious point is that F1 fuel is designed to give the race cars more power on the track, therefore, is very different from what’s used in regular road cars.

F1 cars use fuel which is specially designed for them so you cannot get it at a petrol station, no you can’t even get anything remotely close to F1 fuel. It has properties for race car engines to make sure that those engines work as efficiently as possible at a very high RPM or revs per minute that they operate.

Formula One fuel will fall under high octane premium road fuel with octane thresholds of 95 to 102. And since 1992, all Formula One cars must use unleaded racing gasoline fuel. And F1 Blends are tuned for maximum performance in all weather conditions or different circuits.

What happens if you put F1 fuel in your road car? Well, unfortunately, the car’s brain, the ECU, would have a complete meltdown and probably stop operating altogether.

The Difference Between Regular Fuel And F1 Fuel

A lot of the cleaning agents are removed in F1 fuel. In a road car, the fuel system has to be constantly cleaned. This is because a road car is going to do thousands of kilometres, whereas a Formula 1 car only has to complete one Grand Prix.

How much it would cost to fill a regular car with F1 fuel? If you were to fill your road car with Formula 1 fuel, it will probably cost you about €3500 (RM17,876)!

A formula one car uses about €454,868 (RM2,323,493) in petrol during an entire season (including practice runs) for their practice and racing sessions. That’s about 190,000 litres of fuel.

Formula 1 vehicles are among the fastest in the world, with speeds consistently exceeding 300 km/h. And, of course, they are expensive to construct. The cost is primarily determined by how much the team is willing to invest in its development and will vary greatly depending on the size and reputation of the team.

And this is just the fuel, we are not even talking about lubrication systems yet. That’s an entirely different world altogether.


Lexus Malaysia Introduces New LS 500! [+Videos]

The Lexus LS was the first model introduced by the new premium brand in 1989, aimed squarely at taking on the German luxury car market, particularly the Mercedes-Benz W126, then dubbed
‘The Best Car In The World’.
 As the flagship of the Lexus range, the LS has always been a technological leader as well as setting and raising benchmarks in its class. Craftsmanship and refinement have been hallmarks of the LS as well as other Lexus models, complemented by the renown
‘Lexus Experience’
 offered to owners and would-be owners…

Every Lexus LS is produced at the Lexus factory in Tahara, Japan, by only the most skilled personnel. Since 1989, four generations of the LS have been introduced; each designed to exceed the expectations of customers. Here’s the 360-degree walk-around video of the new LS during the launch recently:

Although initially developed with the American market in mind, the LS has since become a global model sold in 90 countries.

The fifth and latest generation was introduced at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, after having been ‘previewed’ as the LF-FC concept two years earlier. The new model was developed with the objective of exceeding expectations by delivering a new level of flagship luxury in every aspect. To achieve this, the Lexus team started totally from scratch by re-imagining what a flagship sedan should be, as if launching the brand all over again. See what that means from this video by EVO Aurizn…

Like the LC 500 coupe, the latest LS sits on the GA-L (Global Architecture―Luxury) platform which will be used for all rear-wheel drive models in coming years. The GA-L platform is the stiffest in Lexus history, setting the stage for enhanced handling, ride smoothness and cabin quietness.

For the Malaysian market, three variants of the LS are available – the
 LS 500 Luxury, LS 500 Executive
and
 LS 500h Executive
 with a Lexus Hybrid Drive, and prices start at
RM799,000
. Customers have a choice of up to 11 exterior colours and 6 interior colours/trims (depending on variant).

This generation of the LS sees an
all-new twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine
 specifically developed for the model. This engine has an undersquare design for improved thermal efficiency coupled with twin turbochargers, and has benefitted from the company’s technology developed for F1 racing. This new LS engine is indicative of the more dynamic approach being taken by Lexus, offering V8-level power in a more compact package with efficiency and refinement.

The new LS engine offers the output one would expect in a flagship sedan:
310 kW/415 hp with 600 Nm of torque
, significantly higher than the previous naturally aspirated
4.6-litre V8
 engine, mated to a
10-speed
 auto transmission,.

The engine’s long stroke, optimized bore-to-stroke ratio, increased valve angle, straight intake ports and laser-clad intake valve seats developed using performance simulations based on F1 technology combine to yield world top-level high-speed combustion technology and thermal efficiency. The twin turbochargers were designed and produced in-house to control tolerances and quality.

Of particular noteworthy mention are the cost-option
“Kiriko” Glass
 door-panel inserts. Only a handful are crafted each month and four panels replete with hand-woven fabric inserts will set you back almost
RM100,000
. No, that’s not a typo.

For the FULL details on the new Lexus LS 500 click this:

PRODUCT INFORMATION – Lexus LS500 (Word)

For the FULL Lexus LS brochure in PDF, click here:
LS 500 FMC E-Brochure-ALL-FA

Lexus LS 500 Photo Gallery… (some additional launch photos by Fairuz “Subsy” Tiberius)


MCO: 2 persons allowed in a vehicle – but only for specific purposes

For those who have been frustrated by the one-person-per-vehicle ruling under the Movement Control Order (MCO), there’s good news. The ruling has now been amended to permit two persons to be in a vehicle – but there are also conditions. The two persons should be from the same household and family, so it would be husband and wife, or mother and child, etc.

And as before, travel (maximum of 10 kms) is only permitted for the purpose of buying essential groceries, food, medical supplies or to seek medical treatment. And the range from home is 10 kms, unless there is a special reason to go further, ie for specialized medical treatment at a specific hospital or clinic (documents must be shown).

This allowance should be appreciated so don’t use it as an opportunity to go dating because that would get you arrested. Those who abuse this allowance will only cause problems for other law-abiding citizens who follow the rules because the authorities may decide to withdraw it since there is disobedience.

The police and armed forces are at roadblocks day and night, in the sun and rain (and storms), so don’t make their job harder by not following the regulations. And if you wish to show appreciation for their hard work, pass them a box of drinks for them to buka puasa.

As the situation improves with regards to the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia, the government is slowly adjusting the regulations but stresses the need to observe social distancing. This must be kept in mind now that more people can go out so supermarkets and other places will see more customers.

Many service centres are also operating but customers are asked to make appointments before going. This is to enable the personnel to adhere to the conditions of their permit to operate. The companies must practice social distancing in their premises for the protection of the public as well as their staff. Therefore making an appointment will enable them to prepare for the arrival of a customer and minimize interaction.

Note also that the 10-km range limit applies so choose the service centre closest to you. To determine how far away it is, you can use Waze or Google Maps to check the distance.

Last day to apply for interstate travel

Today is also the last day to apply for interstate travel. This is only for those who have been trapped in another place and want to return to their home in the city. To date, the police have received over 250,000 applications via the Gerak Malaysia mobile application. After reviewing the applications, the police will provide the National Security Council with the data for discussion on the schedule to allow travel to take place.

The plan is for the schedule to be from May 1, 2 and 3, depending on the volume of traffic and the origins/destinations of the travellers. Applicants who receive approval will be issued a QR code which they must show at roadblocks to pass through without problems.

Download Gerak Malaysia app from the
Apple AppStore
,
Google PlayStore
 or
Huawei App Gallery


Second generation of Honda BR-V has global debut from Indonesia

It was no secret that the
 N7X Concept
 shown earlier in the year was a sneak preview of the new Honda BR-V (although the carmaker didn’t say so). Now Honda has finally unveiled the production model online from Indonesia where its global production hub is located. This is the second time that Indonesia is the location for the global debut of the model which was launched in August 2015. However, it was only in May 2017 that it was finally launched in Malaysia.

The second generation of the crossover SUV not only has fresh new looks but, just like the first City and the second one, it appears that Honda took in a lot of feedback from owners to make improvements to the model. Features which may have taken another generation before being available in the BR-V are included as well as the  Honda SENSING driver assistance system.

Honda has not provided dimensions but from the pictures, it seems the new BR-V has grown very slightly, or it could be just the body lines giving that impression. The frontal appearance has gained a bolder look with a distinctive grille flanked by LED headlamps with LEF day running lights. The rear end has new combination lights with LED Light Bars designed to blend in with the body line.

Like the first generation, the second generation of the BR-V also has generous ground clearance. This is something which carmakers who understand the Indonesian market know is an important point. Besides rough roads in the rural areas, there are also floods and being able to cross deep water is appreciated.

Global debut of the first generation in 2015.

Honda N7X Concept shown earlier this year as a preview of the new BR-V.

The original concept of the BR-V was to combine the design and toughness of an SUV and within, offer the cabin comfort and functionality of an MPV. This concept is retained for the second generation with increased comfort levels and more functionality. There are three rows of seats for up to 7 persons. The use of leather lining has also been added in the cabin for a more premium feel. Storage areas have been increased too, with more power outlets. The driver is provided all the necessary information on a 4.2-inch Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) display, supplemented by a 7-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.

Owners of the new BR-V will enjoy more convenience with features such as Remote Engine Start, Walk-Away Auto Lock function, Smart Entry System and auto-folding door mirrors. With the auto-lock function, the doors will lock automatically when the driver has walked at least 2 metres or more from the car.

In safety too, the new BR-V makes a big leap with the inclusion of Honda SENSING. This is a suite of assistance systems to help the driver avoid an accident or act automatically to prevent the accident. These systems, already available in the other models, include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, automatic emergency braking and automatic headlight high beam control. Also included now are  Hill Start Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and side airbags (besides the front ones).

Also of note is the addition of Honda LaneWatch, a blindspot monitoring system that makes use of a camera on the left side of the car. The mirror is mounted on the door mirror and captures real-time imagery of the area along the side of the car, displaying it on the screen on the dashboard. It is only active when the left turn signal is on, and the imagery is clear even at night.

The new BR-V continues to use a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine (improved, of course) with maximum output of 121 ps/145 Nm. Customers can choose a manual transmission or a new CVT which delivers power to the front wheels.

Over 255,000 units have been sold since the model was launched in Indonesia, of which around 30% were delivered in the Indonesian market. While the City is Honda Malaysia’s strongest seller, the BR-V has also had its own following among families with its 7-person cabin and entry-level pricing. Until July this year, over 35,000 units have been assembled in Malaysia.

Honda Malaysia has mentioned that a new model will be launched before the year ends and this new one could be it. Given the need to pump up interest for people to shop for cars again, Honda Malaysia is unlikely to wait two years to launch the new BR-V, as was the case with the first generation.

To know more about Honda models in Malaysia, visit
www.honda.com.my
.

World premiere of Honda N7X Concept in Indonesia previews next BR-V 7-seater


2020 F1 Chinese Grand Prix cancelled due to COVID-19 situation

Cancellations of Formula 1 races are rare and the last time was 8 years ago when the Bahrain Grand Prix had to be cancelled due to security issues as a result of unrest in the country. This time, it’s the outbreak of a disease and given the seriousness and spread of the COVID-19 virus in China, the FIA has made the decision not to run the Chinese Grand Prix which was scheduled for April 19 in Shanghai. This follows the
cancellation of the Formula E round
 that was to be held on Hainan Island next month.

For both events, the FIA has mentioned ‘postponed’ which suggests that the events could be held later in the year. However, the calendars are tight and finding an available weekend may not be easy. Furthermore, being in Asia, logistics have to be considered too as a series of races may be scheduled for the venues in the western hemisphere.

The FIA has considered the health and safety of all those involved in F1 races, and has decided the Chinese GP this year should be cancelled, with the possibility that it may be run later in the year.

“In view of the continued spread of novel coronavirus and after ongoing discussions with the Federation of Automobile and Motorcycle Sports of People’s Republic of China (CAMF) and Shanghai Administration of Sports, the Chinese Grand Prix Promoter, Juss Sports Group, has officially requested that the 2020 FIA Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix be postponed,” the organisation said in a statement.

“As a result of continued health concerns and with the World Health Organisation declaring the coronavirus as a global health emergency, the FIA and Formula 1 have taken these measures in order to ensure the health and safety of the travelling staff, championship participants and fans, which remains of primary concern,” said the FIA.

The FIA and Formula 1 will continue to work closely with the teams, race promoter, CAMF and the local authorities to monitor the situation as it develops. It will also review the situation for other motorsport events globally in accordance with the changing COVID-19 environment and advisories from the World Health Organisation.

Formula E round in China cancelled, other motorsports events under review by FIA due to concerns about coronavirus


TC Euro Cars offers a Renault Subscription 1-month Trial Plan for RM996

Hesitant about making a long-term commitment on a car purchase? It’s understandable in these challenging times and uncertainty about the future. But if you do need to have a car, TC Euro Cars (TCEC) is offering a new Renault Subscription 1-Month Trial Plan for RM996.

“The impact of the Movement Control Order and COVID-19 will continue for some time and we at TCEC are mindful that keeping costs manageable and staying safe will remain top priorities for many Malaysians,” said Wong Hoe Mun, CEO of TC Euro Cars.

“The new Renault Subscription 1-Month Trial Plan is a great option for those wanting shorter-term plans of less than one year but more than the one week offered through our 7-day trial plan, “Mr. Wong explained.

For a limited time, customers can save 35% more with the new trial plan and bookings made before May 18, 2020 will be ready before the Hari Raya period. The 1-Month Trial Plan expands on available Renault Subscription offerings and offers pre-owned Capturs that are no more than 2 years old and have passed thorough inspection to meet Renault’s quality and safety standards.

Interested customers do not need to pay a booking fee or security deposit and only make an up-front payment of RM996. The fee is inclusive of roadtax, insurance, regular servicing and unlimited mileage. For additional safety, all customers within the Klang Valley can also request for free door-to-door delivery.

More importantly, those who choose the Trial Plan can choose to utilise their subscription in 4 one-week blocks according to their needs, which makes it more convenient and affordable than taking the Renault Subscription 7-Day Trial Plan multiple times.

Thorough sanitisation and disinfection

TCEC has also launched the Renault Sanitisation Campaign for existing owners who service their vehicles at the Renault 4S Centre in Petaling Jaya. The campaign offers a complimentary sanitisation package with two additional top-up options.

The complimentary package covers sanitisation of high-touch contact points, fogging of the cabin and air-conditioner evaporator as well as disinfection to kill bacteria in the air and surfaces.

For an additional RM168, customers will benefit from further disinfection with fogging that penetrates deeper into the air-conditioner evaporator as well as 99% COVID-19 elimination. The second top-up option under the Renault Sanitisation Campaign offers additional odour elimination for RM228. From now until June 30, 2020, customers can enjoy a 20% introductory discount offer on either package (to be redeemed within 3 months from the purchase date).

Ozone fogging is used during the sanitisation process.

“This campaign is in line with the government’s call for a ‘new normal’ where sanitisation and disinfection is now paramount in keeping ourselves safe from COVID-19. With this Sanitisation Campaign, Renault customers can rest assured that their health and safety is protected when they send their vehicles in for servicing,” said Mr. Wong.

TC Euro Cars enhances sales and aftersales offers for Renault customers


Public Will Soon Be Able To Apply For Small Budgets To Fix Potholes

Nothing brings a driver greater satisfaction than cruising down the highway at their designated pace regardless of anything else but their speed limit.

Unfortunately, potholes have been a problem on Malaysian roads for some time, aggravating drivers because of the risks they bring to everyone using the roads. The first thing to feel the impact when you strike a pothole would be your car’s tyres because they connect your vehicle to the road. The impact may weaken, tear, or damage your tyres, which could cause a blowout or flat tyre while you continue driving.

To overcome this issue, the Economic Affairs Ministry intends to implement a new system allowing the general public to apply for modest project allocations.

According to Rafizi Ramli, this will hasten the process of addressing problems like fixing clogged drains or potholes in the roads. “The federal government is making changes to democratise small allocations for the rakyat. All this time, as the elected representative, I had to do all sorts of things like fixing drains and so on,” Rafizi said.

The new system, which is expected to go live some time in the middle or end of June, will allow anybody to petition the ministry directly for allocations, including the general public, district offices, and state departments. Rafizi emphasised that there is already excessive red tape around allocation approval, which might take up to three years.

This new method is regarded as advantageous to everyone. All states and individuals have equal access to submit applications for allocations. However, before allocations are made, a few requirements must be met.


Porsche’s Tri-Wing S-91x Pegasus Starfighter completed and ready for debut tomorrow (w/VIDEO)

In October, we revealed that
Porsche has very long-term plans for its business
, not just on Earth but in galaxies far, far away. To prepare for this, the sportscar maker got together with LucasFilm, the creators of
Star Wars
, to develop a starship as a first step. Over a period of 2 months, a project team consisting of designers from Porsche and LucasFilm worked together at their respective design studios in Weissach (Germany) and San Francisco to create initial ideas and drafts before finally coming up with a concrete concept.

The fantasy starship, named Tri-Wing S-91x Pegasus Starfighter, is presently in concept form so it is small – just 1.5 metres. While legal requirements impose certain restrictions on creativity in the classic design process for a series-production vehicle, this project opens up a whole new dimension of freedom.

At the same time, the Style Porsche team faced fresh challenges, since creating a purely virtual design is demanding, too. On the screen, the starship is only seen in two dimensions, while classic series-production vehicles appear physically in three dimensions. In addition, starships usually only appear dynamically in the film and are only visible for a brief moment – so the design has to create an impression and be recognisable within a matter of seconds.

Porsche details in the starship

A glance at the details reveals a number of features familiar from the Porsche design style. The front is reminiscent of the so-called ‘air curtains’ (air inlets) that go together with the headlights to create a single formal entity in the all-electric Taycan sportscar. In addition to the 4-point daytime running light typical of Porsche, the so-called ‘blasters’ – long gun barrels at the front – are located at the tip. The rear grid with the louvres and integrated third brake light was inspired by the current 911 generation, and the rear section of the starship bears the brand’s hallmark light bar.

Porsche design criteria have been applied to the interior, too: the instruments in the cockpit are clearly aligned with the driver’s axis, while the low seating position is reminiscent of the sporty ergonomics in the 918 Spyder. All in all, the design follows a basic principle that is characteristic of the brand. All the elements on the exterior have a clear function, and purely visual features have largely been dispensed with.

“The design of the spaceship is harmoniously integrated into the Star Wars film world while at the same time demonstrating clear analogies with the characteristic Porsche styling and proportions,” said Michael Mauer, Vice-President Style Porsche at Porsche AG. “The basic shape of the cabin, which tapers towards the rear, and a highly distinctive topography from the cockpit flyline to the turbines establish visual parallels with the iconic design of the 911 and the Taycan. The very compact layout conveys dynamism and agility, lending emphasis to the Porsche design features mentioned.”

The development process of the starship can be viewed online at
www.thedesigneralliance.com
. The Tri-Wing S-91x Pegasus Starfighter will make its first public appearance at the film’s special premiere of ‘
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
’ tomorrow in Los Angeles. The global release is set for Thursday, December 19, 2019.

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


Ford Ranger 2.2L Wildtrak Wins ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year’ @ Malaysia COTY 2018!

The
“tougher, smarter, more efficient”
Ford Ranger 2.2L Wildtrak
 has been named as the

‘Pickup Truck of the Year (Twin Cab)’ at the Malaysia Car of the Year (COTY) 2018 Awards
, further reinforcing the Ranger’s top position in Malaysia’s pickup truck segment.

Hosted by the
Malaysia Automotive, Robotics & IoT Institute
 a.k.a.
MARII
 (formerly Malaysia Automotive Institute, MAI), winners of the awards were assessed based on five criteria: exterior and interior design, technical specifications and engineering innovations, safety features, energy efficiency and environmental friendliness, as well as best overall value for money.

“We are honoured that the Ranger has received yet another prestigious endorsement. With its unmatched versatility, comfort and advanced technology and features, Ford Ranger has proven itself as the toughest and smartest truck that customers can count on to help them achieve more, whether at work or with their families,”
 said
Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion
(above, at an earlier VOTY Car Awards event)

The Ranger 2.2L Wildtrak delivers robust capability with unbeatable
 towing ability of 3,500kg
, class-leading water-wading capability of up to
800mm
 and exceptional payload capacity while adding a level of refinement unseen in the pickup truck segment. The Ranger continues to be Ford’s best-selling nameplate in Malaysia and one of the best-selling pickups in the market. In the third quarter of 2018, sales of the Ranger jumped
61%
 to
2,245
 units sold.

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


Subaru Levorg wins 2020-2021 Japan Car of the Year title

The 2020-2021 Japan Car of the Year is the Subaru Levorg, giving the Japanese carmaker its third overall title in the event which has been on since 1980. The Levorg was chosen this year’s list of nominees numbering 33, of which 13 were from Japanese brands and the remainder from other global manufacturers.

From the 33 nominees, which must be new models introduced and sold in the Japanese market from November 2019 to October 31 of the current year (in this case, 2020), ten models were chosen as the ‘Ten Best Cars’. These were considered the finalists, from which one would become the Japan Car of the Year after the judges had evaluated all of them.

Subaru Levorg

The Levorg impressed the judging panel with its combination of the Subaru Global Platform and the full inner frame structure which provides a high level of both maneuverability and comfort. The newly developed 1.8-litre direct-injection turbocharged engine was also found to emphasize ease of use in everyday life. The judges also found that the interior had evolved significantly, with the finish being a suitable benchmark for this decade. Also praised was the advanced driver assistance system ‘EyeSight X’ that utilizes 3D high-precision map data and other information from GPS.

Peugeot 208/e-208

Among the non-Japanese brands, the highest score went to the Peugeot 208/e-208. Comments from the judges highlighted the high-quality ride that is above class-average and excellent handling. The high quality of the interior and exterior design as well as the good pricing of the e-208 EV also scored points.

The Mitsubishi eK X Space and eK Space Win also won K-Car of the Year, a new category of the 2020-2021 Car of the Year awards.

2020 – 2021 Japan Car of the Year

1. Subaru Levorg – 437 points

2. Honda Fit/Jazz – 320 points

3. Toyota Yaris/Yaris Cross/GR Yaris – 300 points

4. Peugeot 208/e-208 – 141 points

5. Land Rover Defender – 105 points

6. Audi e-tron Sportback – 65 points

7. Mazda MX-30 – 63 points

8. Alpina BMW ALPINA B3 – 25 points

9. BMW 2-Series Grand Coupe – 24 points

10. Nissan Kicks – 20 points

 PAST WINNERS

1980-1981: Mazda Familia (323)

1981-1982: Toyota Soarer

1982-1983: Mazda Capella (626)

1983-1984: Honda Civic

1984-1985: Toyota MR2

1985-1986: Honda Accord

1986-1987: Nissan Pulsar

1987-1988: Mitsubishi Galant

1988-1989: Nissan Silvia SX

1989-1990: Toyota Celsior (Lexus LS)

1990-1991: Mitsubishi Galant

1991-1992: Honda Civic

1992-1993: Nissan March

1993-1994: Honda Accord

1994-1995: Mitsubishi FTO

1995-1996: Honda Civic

1996-1997: Mitsubishi Galant

1997-1998: Toyota Prius

1998-1999: Toyota Altezza (Lexus IS250)

1999-2000: Toyota Vitz (Yaris)

2000-2001: Honda Civic

2001-2002: Honda Fit (Jazz)

2002-2003: Honda Accord

2003-2004: Subaru Legacy

2004-2005: Honda Legend

2005-2006: Mazda MX-5

2006-2007: Lexus LS460

2007-2008: Honda Fit (Jazz)

2008-2009: Toyota iQ

2009-2010: Toyota Prius

2010-2011: Honda CR-Z

2011-2012: Nissan LEAF

2012-2013: Mazda CX-5

2013-2014: Volkswagen Golf 7

2014-2015: Mazda2/Demio

2015-2016: Mazda MX5

2016-2017: Subaru Impreza

2017-2018: Volvo XC60

2018-2019: Volvo XC40

2019-2020: Toyota RAV4


Couple pressured by mum about having children, gets supercharger instead

There are so many stories where young couples are constantly bombarded by their mothers about providing them with grandchildren. Although some couples will comply, one pair of motorhead enthusiasts from Utah, USA, thought that it would cool to ‘retaliate’ by taking baby photos with a supercharger.

That’s right, folks. Brayden Tominic and his wife Payton posted up a set of photos on South Valley Photography Facebook page welcoming their latest ‘baby’ into their lives named Eaton. The post is short and sweet but downright funny as hell. Check it out, below.

So not many of you have known this but it’s finally the right time to post this. The last two years Payton and I have been preparing for this moment and finally the time has come. It’s something I have always wanted but never knew how soon it was going to happen. We have been truly blessed this last year and finally it is here.

We would love to welcome this Supercharger into our household! It is going to be whining a lot but can’t wait for all of the fun!
???

?????

So, what’s going to happen to their latest ‘bundle of joy’? Like all babies, Eaton is going to bring so much joy and happiness into the lives of Brayden and Payton after it is installed in their 2007 Ford Mustang GT. And the parents of the year go to…

Image credit:
South Valley Photography


2021 Hyundai Kona goes on sale with two variants and one Smartstream engine choice

The Hyundai Kona made its global debut in 2017 but it was only in late October 2020 that the small SUV finally appeared in Malaysia. Now, just five months later, an updated version is being launched with a new powertrain and cosmetic changes for the 2021 model year.

The new powertrain is from the Smartstream family and is a bigger version of the engine found in the latest Elantra that was launched in Malaysia in December last year. The Smartstream G2.0 Atkinson 4-cylinder engine replaces the Nu 2.0 and Gamma 1.6 engines (the latter being turbocharged) that powered the 2020 Kona. Without turbocharging but with advanced technology that promotes efficiency, the output is 149 ps/180 Nm.

There are other powertrain choices (hybrid and full electric) but it could be that the high demand for the Kona, especially in Europe, makes it hard for Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) to get allocation at this time.

Hyundai Smartstream G2.0 engine and Smartstream, IVT (below).

Power goes only to the front wheels via a Smartstream IVT which was developed by the Hyundai Motor Group. It’s said to be better than a CVT while having the benefits of the CVT. The shifting patterns is more like a conventional transmission’s and the engineers have managed to eliminate the ‘rubber band feel’ of CVTs. Rather than having no set gear speed (as in CVTs), the driver can also take advantage of the virtual gear speeds generated by the IVT as needed, which do a great job in approximating the fun feel of the manual transmission.

Active and Standard versions, one engine only

HSDM is importing the Kona in Standard and Active versions, priced (without insurance) at
RM119,888
 and
RM
136,888
, respectively, with 50% of sales tax exempted until June 30, 2021. The 2021 model has restyled front and rear ends which sharpen the profile, making it visually sleeker, especially with the extra 40 mm of overall length.

The 2021 Kona, which is 40 mm longer, has noticeable changes to the front end when compared to the 2020 model (below).

Stronger visual features

The Cascading Grille is a strong visual feature which extends to both corners, while the same LED lighting units are maintained (the slim lights at the top of each corner are the signal lights). To emphasise the SUV image are protective panels and a skid plate on the lower bumper. Integrated into the bumper corners are vertically oriented aerodynamic inlets that improve airflow.

At the rear, the new taillights feature horizontally stretched graphics. These mirror the front-end lighting theme. The new rear bumper, which continues the protective armour concept of the front and sides, also uses a contrasting coloured material. Depending on the variant, the alloy wheels are 17 inches or 18-inches in diameter with new designs.

Colour choices for the Kona Standard are Chalk White, Galactic Grey, Surfy Blue and Pulse Red, while those who buy the Kona Active variant have the option of Surfy Blue, Dive in Jeju, Ignite Flame, Dark Knight, and Misty Jungle.

Upscale and progressive interior

Packaging of a small SUV can be challenging for the interior designers as spaciousness is expected, being a SUV. Nevertheless, intelligent use of space provides the space and for the latest model, a number of revisions give a more upscale and progressive look. There are new colours and materials with seat cover options that include a black woven houndstooth design, cloth seats with black and grey embossing or perforated leather seats in black or beige.

The redesigned console area is separated from the instrument panel to emphasize the horizontal layout. The dashboard appears wide and airy, contributing to the spacious ambience. New for the Kona Active is a 10.25-inch digital cluster, in addition to an 8-inch AVN screen with multiple connectivity options. Wireless Android Auto and Apple are also available allowing apps like Waze and Spotify to be embedded in the infotainment system.

For convenience and space-saving, the parking brake is now electrically-actuated and has an auto-hold function. demand. Additionally, the new Kona now has a remote engine start function from the smart key.

Hyundai Smartsense

Like other models in the market, the best safety features are only available in the most expensive version, in the case the Kona Active. This gets a range of SmartSense driver assistance systems such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist with Safe Exit Warning. The latter is particularly valuable not only to detect (and warn the driver) vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out but also detects oncoming vehicles from the rear and then displays a visual and audio warning to alert the passenger exiting the vehicle.

Other safety features include Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert, Rear Occupant Alert and High Beam Assist. The Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) has also been upgraded with pedestrian and vehicle detection, and will activate Automatic Emergency Braking if the driver does not act correctly or in time to prevent an accident.

HSDM sells the new Kona with a 5-year or 300,000 km (whichever comes first) warranty and during the first 3 years (or maximum of 50,000 kms), the customer won’t have to pay anything for scheduled maintenance services.

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors enhances ownership experience with new aftersales loyalty programmes

The National Vaccination Program in Malaysia is free of charge.


Proton In 2018 – Part 20: New X70 SUV Scores Well In NCAP Crash Test + The Official Launch Is Happening @ KLIMS 2018!

The
Proton X70
, the first SUV from
PROTON
, has successfully achieved a
5-star rating
 after being tested by the
New Car Assessment Program
 for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP). Details for the latest round of ASEAN NCAP tests have been released, showing the newest Proton model sits near the top of its segment for occupant safety. With a proven track record for manufacturing cars that obtain a
 5-star ASEAN NCAP
 rating to defend – the
Proton Iriz, Proton Persona, Proton Preve and Proton Suprima S are
all 5-star rated
, PROTON’s engineers and designers paid close attention to every detail to ensure the Proton X70 would obtain a high score based on the latest 2017-2020 testing protocol. Under the new protocol, safety assist technology is now taken into consideration and counts for 25% of the overall score.

PROTON introduced Hot Press Forming (HPF) body structures, used to form the passenger cell of its cars, in 2012 and the same technology is one of the reasons why the Proton X70 is able to provide a high level of protection to its occupants. The HPF cell is supplemented with six airbags for all variants, ISOFIX child seat mounting points as well as seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. By combining these elements, the Proton X70 received a perfect score for the side impact test as well as for head protection technology.

The SUV is also PROTON’s first model to be equipped with a number of safety assist features.
 Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)

are all part of the advanced driver assistance system introduced with the Proton X70. Thus equipped, the SUV was able to obtain a high score for safety assist technology. For the FULL report from NCAP on the Proton X70, click to download this:
Proton X70 ASEAN NCAP Report FULL

“Thanks to the diligent efforts of PROTON’s designers and engineers, the Company has managed to extend its reputation for building cars capable of protecting their occupants in the event of an accident. Aside from the advanced driver assistance system that is making its debut on a Proton model, the Proton X70 is also fitted with various convenience features such as voice command, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC) and a 360 camera for safe manoeuvring in tight spaces,”
 said
Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

Proton X70 to be shown at KLIMS

Following a series of closed-door previews for invited guests and media, the Proton X70 will be making its public debut at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS). Five units of the car will be put on display and visitors are encouraged to get up close and personal with the first C-segment premium SUV from a Malaysian automotive brand. There will also be special display areas to highlight the technology, safety and performance aspects of the vehicle.

“PROTON is now ready for our SUV to meet the Malaysian public. Visitors to KLIMS will be given full access to our show cars and we encourage everyone to explore the various design, technology, safety and performance aspects of the Proton X70 by spending some time at our interactive areas to get to know it better. There are a lot of technological and specification firsts for PROTON with this model so we want to make sure all our customers are able to fully appreciate what we hope will be a game changer for the Company,”
 said
Abdul Rashid Musa
.

KLIMS
 will be held at the
Malaysian International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC)
 in Kuala Lumpur from
23 November to 2 December 2018
. The Proton X70 can be viewed at PROTON’s display located on
Level 1, Hall 1 and at Booth 1007.


F1 / Round 20: 2022 Mexican Grand Prix – Max Verstappen Wins in Mexico Again

At the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City, the start is like a drag race as the first turn is 800 metres away. So being in pole position, as Max Verstappen was, did not necessarily mean having a great advantage but he was not too concerned since his car had an edge over the Mercedes-AMG of George Russell on the straights anyway.

So on lights out, the Red Bull driver got ahead, with Russell and Lewis Hamilton getting in behind him. Verstappen’s team mate, Sergio Perez, was watching for an opportunity but with Russell in his line, he was impeded a bit. Nevertheless, he pushed on the second corner and Russell had to go wide (with what seemed like a slight contact) and got ahead to emerge third after the corner.

The long straight also meant less chance of an early incident and some drivers managed to improve their positions in the ‘drag race’. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Alpine’s Fernando Alonso were able to displace Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas down to eighth from his sixth starting position, and Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll did very well to move 5 places up by the second corner. He had started from the back due to a 3-place grid penalty for the crash with Alonso in the US GP.

At the end of the first 10 laps, Verstappen was able to build a gap of almost 2 seconds to Hamilton who was on slightly more advantageous tyres. Perez stayed with the Mercedes-AMG driver, with lots of cheering from the home crowd.

Tyre grip was the challenge on the smooth track and Stroll was unable to move further beyond his 15
th
 place. Scuderia Alphatauri’s Pierre Gasly tried to get past him on lap 13 and the attempt saw both cars going off the track, an incident which was noted by the Stewards. Although Gasly took over 15
th
 place, he did not get any message to give back the position to Stroll. However, he did get a 5-second penalty for forcing the Canadian driver off the track.

Stroll came in on lap 18 to change the tyres that had been making it a struggle for him and other cars began to also show up in the pit lane. Almost everyone, including Verstappen, had been sliding more than usual and wanted another set of tyres.

The two Ferraris were not well set up for Mexico and it showed as their drivers were unable to improve their positions, Carlos Sainz in fifth and Leclerc in sixth, with Russell a comfortable 8 seconds ahead in fourth.

Lap 24 saw the first Red Bull coming in and it was Perez. An uncharacteristic 5-seconds stranding still kept him long enough that he returned in sixth behind the two Ferraris, Verstappen came in on lap 26, so Hamilton took over the lead and when the Red Bull driver rejoined the race, he was just in front of Sainz,

Hamilton was 5.4 seconds ahead of his team mate when he came in on lap 30, one lap after Leclerc. He took on hard tyres, which suggested that the team was going for a one-stop strategy. Hamilton rejoined in third, almost 7 seconds behind the World-Champion-designate. Sainz followed Hamilton in and when he rejoined, he was ahead of McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo.

Lap 35 saw Russell coming in and taking on hard tyres before returning to the track in fourth. Meanwhile, Perez was able to move up steadily and by lap 37, he had Hamilton in his sights so the Mercedes-AMG driver would have to start defensive moves.

Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel had managed 38 laps on his soft tyres before finally having to come in. There were still 5 other cars that had not come in yet and the drivers might have been hoping the F1 Safety Car would come out for something. But after 3 laps, nothing happened so Bottas and Alonso came in for hard tyres.

On lap 43, the order at the front was still unchanged with Verstappen having a 10-second lead over Hamilton who was kept occupied by Perez. Russell was 6 seconds further back in fourth but safe Sainz who was over 20 seconds back. Just before lap 50, Bottas was in the top 10 duelling Alpine’s Esteban Ocon as race leader Verstappen started to close in on them.

The first major incident occurred on lap 51 as Ricciardo made a move on Scuderia Alphatauri’s Yuki Tsunoda at Turn 5. He miscalculated and the two cars collided. The McLaren’s front tyre hit Tsunoda’s chassis and sent the Alphatauri flying but landing safely and the Japanese driver was able to head for the pits. Ricciardo would get a severe 10-second penalty, but it would be no consolation  for the Tsunoda who had to retire as the car damage was too great.

With 13 laps remaining, the question was whether Verstappen’s tyres would hold till the end. Track temperatures were cool and the expected rain did not show up. The Red Bull driver was clocking consistent times with no pressure, while Hamilton was constantly having to look in the mirrors for Perez who had loads of spiritual boost from the crowd.

Verstappen was unlikely to come in but then came the interruption of the Virtual Safety Car (VSC( as Alonso’s car lost power near Turn 1 and he went off to the side to stop. However, as it was not an accident and no debris needed to be cleared, it was going to be a short VSC so no one thought of wasting time on a pit stop. Russell had asked to come in as he felt he might have some damage from earlier debris but was told to remain on the track.

With 3 laps remaining, Verstappen was in a comfortable lead on his way to another win in Mexico. Hamilton was over 14 seconds back, with Perez almost resigned to just keep the third spot on the podium. Verstappen took the chequered flag for the Mexican GP and for Mercedes-AMG, the second and fourth placing gave the team a good boost in the Constructors championship. It was a poor showing for the Ferrari team which crossed the line in fifth and sixth, Sainz just ahead of Leclerc.


Safari Rally Kenya to run next week after an absence of 19 years from WRC (w/VIDEO)

Next week, the Safari Rally in Kenya takes place as the sixth round of the 2021 World Rally Championship (WRC). First held in 1953, the Safari Rally became part of the WRC calendar from the inaugural season of the championship in 1973 until 2002, after which it was excluded due to financial and organisational issues. It was to have been run again last year but the COVID-19 pandemic prevented it from being run. Although excluded from being in the WRC, the Safari Rally remained part of the African Rally Championship.

The Safari Rally earned a reputation as the toughest event on the calendar, with a route covering enormous distances in tough conditions characterised by high temperatures and dust. Top factory teams sent drivers like Bjorn Waldegard, Ari Vatanen, Hannu Mikkola, Michele Mouton and many others in legendary rallycars like the Audi Quattro, Toyota Celica TwinCam Turbo, Nissan 240 RS, Datsun Violet, with the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo dominant in the 2000s.

For its return, the format of the event will be closer to a typical WRC round but teams and drivers can still expect an extremely demanding rally, with rough and rocky roads as well as the potential for unpredictable weather.

The Group B Celica Twin Cam Turbo won the Safari Rally three years in a row.

The Mitsubishi Lancer was also well known in the earlier years of the Safari Rally and also in the 2000s when the EVO model won year after year.

320 kms of stages over 3 days

Safari Rally Kenya 2021, as the event is officially known, will have 18 stages and a total of 320.19 competitive kilometres. The rally will start from the capital city of Nairobi  with an opening Super Special Stage in nearby Kasarani. The rest of the rally takes place around Naivasha, with Friday featuring a trio of stages on the Navaisha lake’s southern shores to all be run twice. Saturday’s format is the same but takes place further north near Lake Elmenteita. A total of 5 stages brings the rally to a close on Sunday, with the ‘Hells Gate’ test to host the deciding Wolf Power Stage.

Current generation has no Safari experience

The current generation of WRC drivers have never had Safari Rally experience so it will be a new challenge for them, even for 7-time World Champion Sebastien Ogier who heads the standings after winning the Rally Italia Sardegna. It will also be the first time the Toyota Yaris WRC is entering an event in Africa.

“I believe this rally will be very different from anything I have done before. We’ve heard a lot that we are going to have to set our targets a little differently. The way we drive nowadays in the WRC is by really pushing the limits all of the time. But when we go to Kenya, it will be much more about trying to survive the rally without trouble. I think it can be interesting to have a challenge like this during the year. It has been hard to know what is the right way to prepare, so I think the drivers will probably have to adapt a bit during the rally, but the recce will certainly be important to understand what is ahead of us,” Ogier said.

Competing in the WRC2 category with a Hyundai R5 (below), Oliver Solberg (above right) is not only one of the youngest competitors in the event but his father, Petter (left) also took part in the Safari Rally on several occasions in earlier years.

Very young and very old drivers

For one of the entrants – Oliver Solberg – taking part in the rally will be following his father’s participation in 1999. Peter’s father, Petter Solberg, took part in a Ford Focus WRC and was one of the youngest in the manufacturers’ team line-up then – finishing a credible fifth. He later took part in the event with the Subaru team. At 19, Oliver is one of the youngest drivers taking part and will compete in the WRC2 class with a Hyundai R5.

There will also be a 91-year old driver from Poland – Sobieslow Zasada. Active in the sport in the 1960s and 1970,  he finished second in the 1972 event (driving a Porsche 911S) and last took part in the Safari Rally in 1997. For this 2021 event, he will be in a Ford Fiesta Rally3 run by M-Sport Poland.

One of the participants taking part is Sobieslow Zasada from Poland (above left). He was 41 years old when he was second in the Safari Rally in 1971 in a Porsche 911S and this year, at the age of 91, he will be driving a Ford Fiesta WRC in the event.

The entry list has 58 drivers, 34 of them Kenyans. All the three factory teams in Rally1 cars – Toyota GAZOO Racing, Ford M-Sport, and Hyundai Motorsport – will be present, while there will be 11 of the second-tier Rally2 machines.

“It will be an interesting Safari Rally especially on how the old and the young will perform,” said Phineas Kimathi, WRC Safari Rally CEO, adding that Toyota Kenya has provided two Hilux trucks for use as Zero Vehicles which examine each stage before the competitors start.

Karamjit Singh Confirms Rallying Comeback With Cisco Racing Team!


Hyundai Motor Group chooses Canoo platform for future EV models

The Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will collaborate with Canoo, a Los Angeles-based company creating electric vehicles (EVs) for subscription only, to jointly develop an EV platform based on Canoo’s proprietary skateboard design for future Hyundai and Kia models.

As part of the collaboration, Canoo will provide engineering services to help develop a fully scalable, all-electric platform to meet both Korean carmakers’ specifications. HMG expects the platform to help facilitate its commitment to delivering cost-competitive electrified vehicles — ranging from small-sized EVs to Purpose-Built Vehicles (PBV) — that can meet diverse customer needs.

Canoo’s skateboard platform houses the most critical components of the vehicle with a strong emphasis on functional integration, meaning all components fulfill as many functions as possible. This feat of engineering reduces the skateboard size, weight and total number of parts, which ultimately provides more interior cabin space and a more cost-effective EV offering. In addition, the skateboard is a self-contained unit that can support any cabin design.

HMG envisions an adaptable all-electric platform using Canoo’s scalable skateboard architecture to allow for a simplified and standardized development process for Hyundai and Kia electrified vehicles, which is expected to help reduce cost that can be passed along to consumers. It also aims to reduce complexity of its EV assembly line, allowing for rapid response to changing market demands and customer preferences.

With this collaboration, Hyundai Motor Group doubles down on its recent commitment to invest US$87 billion (about RM360.3 billion) over the next 5 years for future growth. As part of this drive, Hyundai plans to invest US$52 billion (RM215.4 billion) in future technologies through 2025, while Kia will invest US$25 billion (RM103.5 billion)  in electrification and future mobility technologies, aiming for eco-friendly vehicles to comprise 25% of its total sales by 2025.

“We were highly impressed by the speed and efficiency in which Canoo developed their innovative EV architecture, making them the perfect engineering partner for us as we transition to become a frontrunner in the future mobility industry,” said Albert Biermann, Head of Research & Development, Hyundai Motor Group.  “We will collaborate with Canoo engineers to develop a cost-effective Hyundai platform concept that is autonomous ready and suitable for mass adoption.”

Future Hyundai and Kia electrified models will sit on the Canoo skateboard.

Canoo unveiled its first electric vehicle for subscription only in September 2019, just 19 months after the company’s founding in December 2017. The company’s proprietary skateboard architecture, which directly houses the batteries and electric drivetrain, has enabled Canoo to reimagine EV design in a way that challenges traditional automotive shape and functionality.

The company recently opened the waitlist for its first vehicle. This is a major milestone in its young history and the culmination of the efforts of 300+ experts working to deliver a proof of concept of Canoo’s backbone architectural systems. Canoo’s first vehicle, to be launched in 2021, will be designed for a world in which transportation is becoming increasingly electric, shared and autonomous.

Canoo takes a different approach to EV engineering and marketing


F1/Round 18: Highlights & Provisional Results For 2021 Mexico City Grand Prix

It was a disastrous start for Valtteri Bottas as he seemed to get a good start but as three cars – with Verstappen having also stayed alongside the two Mercedes cars, – went into the first tune, he was hit and went into a spin. The chaos also knocked out other cars, among them Yuki Tsunoda and Mick Schumacher, while Daniel Ricciardo had a damaged front wing. Out came the Safety Car as Verstappen was pulling ahead in the lead.

While Scuderia AlphaTauri and Haas F1 had one car retire before even the first lap, McLaren’s Ricciardo and Bottas came into the pits for quick repairs and rejoined the race. For Bottas, a pole position was wasted as he was near the back of the field.

The Safety Car circulated for 3 laps and then freed the convoy to resume racing. Verstappen was in the lead and took off, followed by Hamilton and Sergio Perez, with Pierre Gasly in fourth. The chaotic start had seen some of the drivers at the back gaining a few positions up, with Antonio Giovanazzi having gone from 11th to 6th, but Carlos Sainz then passed him for the position.

10 laps into the 71-lap race, the Red Bull in the lead was steadily opening up the gap and had an almost 2-second lead over Hamilton, who had to keep and eye on the other Red Bull behind. Bottas was somewhere down in 16th, stuck in traffic. His position was originally George Russell’s on the starting grid but the Williams driver had moved up to 11th and was busy duelling with Alpine’s Fernando Alonso.

By lap 17, more than half the field had come into the pits and changed to hard tyres but the leaders were still out and seemed to be managing their tyres well. They were still on mediums but would likely switch to hards eventually and try to make it all the way. That had been the case in the last race in 2019.

By lap 21, the frontrunners were starting to come up behind the backrunners. Verstappen was pushing hard and almost 7 seconds ahead of Hamilton, who was tailed by Perez just 2 to 3 seconds behind. The second Red Bull driver was in a safe position as Gasly was some 15 seconds further back so he played it safe and kept the pressure on Hamilton.

Bottas was taking a while to get past Ricciardo and was stuck in 12th place on lap 28, trying to get past the McLaren’s Aussie driver and at the same time, having to avoid letting Alfa Romeo’s Giovanazzi slip past. Meanwhile, up at the front, the leaders were resisting coming in for new tyres.

Hamilton finally came in on lap 30 and after a 2.4-second stop, he rejoined in fifth behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Gasly. But then the Ferrari pulled out to pit so Hamilton moved up one position. Just after that happened, Verstappen came in and Perez took over the lead, much to the delight of the home crowd.

Hamilton got past Gasly and moved up to 3rd but Verstappen was in an out fast enough to maintain the Red Bull 1-2. It was a 7-second gap for the reigning champion to close and he was working hard. Just over a third of the race was completed.

On lap 40, Ricciardo finally pitted and Bottas was able to move up and came up behind Fernando Alonso. Interestingly, the McLaren driver got medium tyres rather than hards, which only a few teams had chosen to use.

Bottas came in on lap 43 and disaster struck the Finn driver for the second time in the day as a front wheel was stuck and took a while to loosen, stretching his stop to an agonising 11 seconds. When he rejoined, he had dropped to 14th. But his team mate had inherited second place as Perez finally came in and though his stop was the usual quick one, he was already 7 seconds behind Hamilton when he rejoined. However, he had a comfortable 10-second gap with Gasly so he could focus on catching up and hassling the Mercedes driver.

Lando Norris had done 46 laps on his first set of tyres before he came in to switch to hards. He managed to rejoin in 10th place and would have to spend the remainder of the race trying to keep in the point-paying group.

On lap 58, with traffic slowing Hamilton down, Perez had come right up into his mirrors. The Mexican driver was going to keep the pressure on so that his team mate could safely collect the 25 points and pull away into a strong championship lead.

With 10 laps left – plus tyres wearing out – Hamilton had to be very careful how hard he wanted to push. A second place might disappoint but would be way better than not finishing.

Bottas was in 14th place and 2 laps behind the leaders and eventually came up to Verstappen. Both drivers were cautious about not causing any incident as less than 10 laps remained, and Verstappen stayed well away as the Finn tried to go for a very fast lap. And with one lap left, he again came into the pits to switch tyres and try one last time to get that precious 1 point for fastest lap (which he did achieve but as he was not in the top 10, it did not count).

But it was still Verstappen’s race as he crossed the finishing line comfortably ahead of Hamilton, his ninth win of 2021 securing a stronger championship lead. Perez gave it all he had but couldn’t make it to 2nd in time. Nevertheless, it was a proud moment for his countrymen as it was the first time a Mexican driver was on the podium of the Mexican GP.


BMW Group Malaysia Introduces The First-Ever BMW X2 [+Videos]

Priced at
RM320,800
 (OTR without insurance) BMW Group Malaysia has just introduced the first-ever
BMW X2
, the newest member to the premium automaker’s portfolio of Sports Activity Coupes.

Created to transform the Compact Premium segment, the all new model from BMW features unmistakable sporty, dynamic and urban design cues which leaves a confident impression both in its class and within the BMW X model family. Here’s a closer 360-degree walk-around video of it:

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia
 (below) said,
“The BMW X models have long made its mark in Malaysia. Last year alone, we delivered over 4,200 BMW X Series vehicles, equating to 39.6% of BMW’s deliveries of 10,618 vehicles. Today, we’re proud to expand our BMW X portfolio here in Malaysia with the first-ever BMW X2.”

Hoelzl added that the new compact premium sports activity coupe promises unadulterated driving pleasure with the ideal balance between sporty driving dynamics and exceptional efficiency. It also offers the best-in-class cabin space.

BMW Malaysia is introducing the X2 in the
BMW X2 sDrive20i M Sport
 variant. The bold, uncompromising nature of the first-ever BMW X2 is evident at first sight and stands out from the crowd in any setting.

The new compact premium sports activity coupe makes a wholly distinctive impression by virtue of the car’s exterior design, while essentially combining the fast-moving body language and low-slung proportions of a coupe with the robust construction of a BMW X model.

“On the road, it is evident that the BMW X2 has the poise of an athlete in peak condition”
 –
BMW
.

Above all, it is the BMW X2’s proportions which create its expressive, dynamic demeanour. Featuring short overhangs, it also has a stretched, coupe-style roofline and slim window graphic. Many of the design details emphasise the BMW X2’s standalone nature while simultaneously and unequivocally signalling its membership of the BMW X family.

The time-honoured BMW kidney grille is just one example, turning the familiar trapezoidal shape on its head instead of widening from top to bottom. This is the first time this design detail has seen the light of day on a modern BMW.

The Sports Activity Coupe cuts a dashing figure on every journey, thanks to its peerless BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, a sophisticated powertrain.

Teaming up with the refined chassis to enable remarkable handling qualities, exceptional agility and feedback, all of which provides BMW X2’s unprecedented driving pleasure in this segment.

More on the new BMW X2: A distinctive character that departs from the BMW script…

For the full BMW X2 spec sheet, click this:
BMW X2 Spec Sheet_Peninsular Malaysia

The kidney grille has always been an identifying feature of a BMW. On the BMW X2, its outline is wider at its base than at its top. The BMW X2 is the first modern BMW to feature this design cue, and it gives the first-ever BMW X2 a broader, even more distinct and sporty appearance.

Below the grille, the hexagonal surface treatment in the bumper further reinforces this impression. The kidney grille provides a visual expression of the BMW X2’s classy appeal. The front to the grille bars in High-Gloss Black contrast with the grille’s chrome surround.

The design of the BMW X2’s headlights reinforce its striking, sporty looks. With the inner headlights being slightly narrower than the outer ones, the BMW X2 assumes a tangible air of concentration and dynamism. Besides LED fog lights, the first-ever BMW X2 comes with LED headlights with extended contents which come with daytime driving lights in 3D icon design.

The BMW X2 wears the BMW Individual High-Gloss Shadow line, with the BMW emblem on the C-Pillars, paying homage to BMW’s tradition of creating premium sports coupes. The BMW M Aerodynamics package comes with this Sports Activity Coupe with wheel arch trim and claddings on doors in body colour. Besides the BMW M rear spoiler, the BMW X2 is designed with the BMW M Sport Suspension, lowering it by -10mm to ensure a comfortable drive.

One of the ways the BMW X2 expresses the inherent power of its BMW TwinPower Turbo engine is through the design of the tailpipes. At 90mm in diameter, the all-new BMW X2 comes with two-sided exhaust tailpipe in high-gloss chrome.

Moving to the top, the roofline of the BMW X2 has an almost coupe-like lightness, which gives the whole car the impression of surging forward like an athlete. Further accentuating the sporty look on the BMW X2 is the roof rails in Aluminium Satinated.

On the road, the BMW X2 has a poised stance thanks to the 19” M light alloy wheels, double-spoke style 715M with run-flat properties. The side skirts of the BMW X2 are among its signature features and contribute in no small part to its rugged and assured good looks.

The horizontal design lines of the BMW X2’s rear end tightens the visual distance between the car and the road, emphasising the car’s width and therefore its sporty character. These lines continue into the high-set rear lights.

Daring Interior Lighting Offering…

Inside, the new BMW X2 offers LED ambient lighting with bold choices of Orange, Lilac, Mint, Bronze, Blue and White colour settings to match the daring exterior expression of the vehicle as well as the mood of the driver.

Driving Dynamics…

The BMW X2 drivers think differently. They break with conventions and they lead the way. As such, the BMW X2 makes for their perfect car. This Sports Activity Coupe is powered by the multiple award winning
2-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine
 which combines twin-scroll turbocharger with Valvetronic, double VANOS and High Precision Injection, all of which generates a top speed of 227km/h.

With an overall system output of
192hp
 and
280Nm
 of torque, the first-ever BMW X2 sprints from 0-100km/h in just
7.7 seconds
. This Sports Activity Coupe also comes with a 7-speed Steptronic Sport double-clutch transmission.

The car’s driving responses can be adapted with a simple push of the Driving Experience Control switch, which allows drivers to choose between COMFORT mode, efficiency-enhancing ECO PRO mode, and SPORT mode. It is also equipped with the Performance Control which allows engine control and brake intervention during cornering.

Contemporary
Ambiance
 with Premium Flair…

The interior of the BMW X2 blends signature BMW elements, such as a pronounced driver focus and dynamic lines, with the understated ruggedness of a BMW X model. From multi-function buttons on the steering wheel to the exterior and interior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function, including fold-in function, the high quality of the BMW X2 and its impressive level of equipment are both instantly apparent.

The first-ever BMW X2 offers a generous helping of everyday practicality. On top of the Comfort Access System with contactless opening of the tailgate, the luggage compartment has a capacity of 470 litres, and up to 1,355 litres with the 40/20/40 split folding down rear seat backrests.

Passengers are also prioritised in the designing of the BMW X2 as the automatic air-conditioning comes in two-zone while passengers behind get to enjoy rear air-conditioning. Both front passenger and driver are treated to electric seat adjustment, with the addition of memory function for the driver.

As far as BMW is concerned, there is one thing that always comes first in a connected vehicle: the task of driving. For this reason, all the BMW Connected elements in the new BMW X2 have once again been designed to assist, inform and entertain the driver at the appropriate time using just the right services, including Intelligent Emergency Call, Teleservices, Concierge Services, BMW Online and BMW Remote Services.

Still the only premium automaker with such an offering in the industry, the integration of BMW Connected services and comfort-enhancing functions enable BMW X2 drivers to organise their daily routines as efficiently as possible.

The BMW Head-Up Display in full colour projects driver-relevant information to offer a first-class customer experience in this vehicle segment. Besides connecting via USB devices, the BMW X2 also comes with the Extended Smartphone Connectivity which enables owners to connect Bluetooth-compatible mobile phone to the BMW X2 and the hands-free kit. This Sports Activity Coupe offers Navigation Plus with 8.8” touch display which also enables split-view. The Radio Media comes with 4 speakers and 2 woofers base speakers.

The BMW X2 also offers drivers a wide selection of Driver Assistance systems. Besides cruise control with brake function, the Park Assistant helps parallel parking manoeuvres. The Park Distance Control and the rear-view camera also make precise and comfortable manoeuvring that much easier.

In terms of external colour offering, the first-ever BMW X2 offers new and bold colours of Galvanic Gold Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic and Sunset Orange Metallic with Black Interior Colour with contrasting Grey seams.

Specifically with the Black Sapphire metallic model offering, the new compact premium
 Sports Activity Coupe
 offers a new interior option of Magma Red interior with contrasting Grey seams. Here’s another walk-around video from the launch today thanks to EVO Aurizn…

The first-ever BMW X2 will be available at all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from
Wednesday
,
21
st
 March 2018.

BMW X2 Coupe Photo Gallery…


Geely tasks Polestar with churning out electric sports cars

Changes are a foot at Volvo, according to an article on
Auto Express
. Apparently, Volvo’s parent company, Geely, wants Polestar (Volvo’s performance arm), to build electric sports cars. It has plans to rival the might and appeal that Volkswagen has enjoyed these past few years.

The article states that Geely wants Polestar to take on a sportier role, sort of what AMG is to Mercedes-Benz. It also wants Polestar to be the face of its Motorsports arm, fielding championship winning vehicles that bear the Volvo name.

Volvo’s SPA (Scalable Product Architecture) and CMA (Compact Modular Architecture) will probably be the platfroms used as the base for the development of these upcoming performance vehicles. That said, we might not have to wait too long for these vehicles to be launch, because word has it that the first of them should hit showroom floors later this year.

The SPA platform underpins the current XC60, XC90, V90 and S90 vehicles with more to follow. And for a while now, the Swedish automaker has been very vocal about producing more and more vehicles with some form of electrification in its propulsion system with the use of the SPA and CMA platforms. And as such, the latest task that has been handed to Polestar, falls in line with Volvo’s current business plan, only Polestar’s creations will be more powerful versions.

Geely acquired Volvo from Ford Motor Company in 2010 for $1.8 billion (RM7.68 billion), a lot less than the latter paid for it in 1999. Since the acquisition, the Swedish marque seems to be flourishing especially in Asia, where the brand has seen in an increase in demand for Volvo branded vehicles.

Source:
Auto Express


Giotto Bizzarrini’s 5300 GT Corsa is reborn as Revival model

Giotto Bizzarrini lived during the era when automobile engineers were not just engineers but were also involved in design, building and testing cars. He got a job at Ferrari in 1957 and among the various projects, played the key role in the development of the iconic
Ferrari 250 GTO
. But his employment at Ferrari came to an unexpected end, during one of the most damaging moments in the carmaker’s history (informally known as the ‘Night of the Long Knives’ or ‘The Palace Revolt’).

As the story goes, 4 of Ferrari’s top engineers, including Giotto, revolted against Enzo Ferrari’s running of the business, and the sacking of commercial director Girolami Gardini. Together with chief engineer Carlo Chiti (who was also sacked), he co-founded ATS, first to build a Formula 1 car. He then started Societa Autostar as a freelance design house and had Ferrucio Lamborghini as one of his first clients.

Giotto Bizzarrini (left) with his first client, Ferrucio Lamborghini (centre) who commissioned him to build a V-12 that went into the Lamborghini’s first sportscar. On the right is Gian Paolo Dallara, whom Lamborghini hired as chief designer.

V-12 for Lamborghini’s first car

Lamborghini needed a V-12 and, like Bizzarrini, he too had a score to settle with Enzo Ferrari. Bizzarrini came up with a V-12 that was exceptionally powerful – so much so that it had to be detuned from its original 375 bhp to be civilised enough for road use. It was used in Lamborghini’s debut model, the
350 GT
.

The desire to settle the score with Ferrari led him to build the 5300 GT Corsa and take his creation to Le Mans in 1965. First developed as a high-performance variant of the Bizzarrini-engineered
Iso Grifo A3C
, the 5300 GT Corsa incorporated a tried and tested V8 engine. Light, fast and reliable, the 5300 GT Corsa became famous at the 1965 Le Mans 24 Hour Race when it won the over 5-litre class, also finishing ninth overall.

Brand reborn in 2020

The Bizzarrini brand was reborn in 2020 by businessmen who recognise the engineer’s brilliance and want to build an authentic recreation of Giotto Bizzarrini’s first car under his own name. The 5300 GT Revival Corsa will be the first model to bear the Bizzarrini name for more than 15 years. After the completion of the development prototype, a total of 24 cars will be built for sale.

“The car is, of course, engineered for racing,” said Richard Quinlan, COO of Bizzarrini. “But we will also be able to satisfy the desire of any customer who wishes to drive this spectacular car on the road.”

Original blueprints, modern materials

The 5300 GT Corsa Revival will be built at Bizzarrini’s dedicated facility in the UK, using original blueprints, utilising materials from original suppliers, with the input of experts originally involved in the 5300 GT project. Some key improvements have been added with modern safety regulations in mind.

The original car’s fuel tanks were located deep in the sills, as well as behind the driver, for example, but now – using advanced 3D scanning – Bizzarrini engineers have created a tank intricately shaped, filling the available void in the chassis to tolerances and accuracy not available to the original designers. The overall fuel capacity is only marginally reduced, at 95 litres, keeping the range within the requirements of a multiple round race series.

The painstaking dedication to authenticity even extends as far as this car’s paintwork. There is a long and complex history surrounding the colour known as ‘Rosso Corsa’, with many shades purporting to be the original. To ensure the car looks exactly as it would have in period, the Bizzarrini team tracked down a paint colour sample from an original panel, which had been hidden from light since it was first painted, perfectly preserving Bizzarrini Rosso Corsa. This shade was then colour-matched for the Revival to create Rosso Corsa Bizzarrini 222.

In radically adapting the Corsa for track driving, Bizzarrini fitted bespoke independent rear suspension and shifted the front-mounted engine as far back in the chassis as possible. This revolutionary approach to weight distribution proved a key advantage against many contemporary front-heavy cars. In testing the Revival, modern measurements show that each corner of the car carries 25% of its overall weight, illustrating the visionary genius of the engineer to design a car in 1965 that still delivers perfect balance in 2022.

Independent rear suspension to original specification and all-round disc brakes are paired with a period-specific 5300 cc V8 with Weber 45 DCOE carburettors developing over 400 bhp. At just 1,250 kgs, the Bizzarrini 5300 GT Revival Corsa will have an excellent power to weight ratio.

24 hand-built cars

Each car in the Revival series of 24 cars will be hand-built, with a lightweight single piece composite body, over a steel frame. Inside, the two seats are protected by a more comprehensive 6-point roll bar and safety fuel cell, meeting FIA Appendix K historic racing regulations.

One of Giotto Bizzarrini’s most valuable talents was his ability to push the limits of contemporary engineering. The original 5300 GT made extensive use of the strongest lightweight material of its day, glass fibre. “Had it been available, we believe Giotto Bizzarrini would almost certainly have employed carbonfibre in his racing cars,” said Quinlan. “As a result, the 5300 GT Revival Corsa will be offered with a full carbonfibre bodyshell as standard for those customers who do not need to conform to Historic Racing regulations.”


Michelin to introduce Pilot Sport EV for electric sportscars next month

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

As electric vehicles move into the mainstream, tyremakers are slowly focussing R&D on developing tyres which are more specifically engineered to meet the specific handling and range requirements. This will be especially so with the new generation of electrically-powered sportscars like the
Porsche Taycan
. Issues like weight and rolling resistance will have a great priority.

Specifically for electric sportscars

Michelin’s Pilot Sport EV is the first tyre from the French company which is designed to address the specific demands made by electric sportscars. It is the result of the unique experience acquired by Michelin’s involvement in the all-electric single-seater Formula E racing series.

Michelin, as the tyre supplier for the all-electric single-seater Formula E championship, has developed tyres specifically for the racing cars.

Technological experience from Formula E

A founding partner of Formula E, Michelin proposed a specific solution for the championship’s racing cars that is similar in its concept to a road tyre. The Michelin Formula E tyre is capable of racing in any weather conditions, while its size – 18 inches – is consistent with current road-car norms.

One example of how the Pilot Sport EV benefits directly from the progress Michelin has achieved over 6 seasons in Formula E is the ElectricGrip Compound technology. This features a hard compound for the centre of the tread to provide the grip required to handle high torque characteristics of electric sports cars. The sidewalls carry over the same pattern and velvet-finish markings of Michelin’s Formula E tyre.

Additionally, MaxTouch Construction maximizes the tyre’s contact with the road and evenly distribute the forces of acceleration, braking and cornering – delivering longer tread life without sacrificing performance.

Quieter and further

Electric cars run quietly so the tyres will also have to be as quiet as possible. To achieve this, Michelin engineers have cut out 20% of road noise using the company’s Acoustic technology which takes the form of a custom-developed polyurethane foam that reduces cabin noise.

There is the promise of optimal grip on dry and wet road – irrespective of the tyre’s level of wear – taking into account the higher weight and weight-distribution characteristics associated with electric sportscars. Resistance to wear is also tailored in response to the high torque and acceleration forces generated by electric powertrains.

The tyre’s low rolling resistance is claimed to extend operating range by up to 60 kms. This has been calculated in a Rolling Resistance internal study comparing a 255/45 R19 Pilot Sport EV (6.7 kg/t) with the same-sized Pilot Sport 4 SUV (8.8 kg/t). In the case of an electric vehicle weighing 2,151 kgs with a range of 540 km, the difference (2.1 kg/t) equates to more than 60 kms of additional range, or more than 10% of the original range.

Carbon-neutral throughout

The new tyre is also an eco-responsible product and will be CO
2
-neutral at the point of sale. Michelin has cut CO
2
 emissions from its industrial sites by 25% since 2010 and aims at their carbon neutrality by 2050.

In order to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the life of its tyre and address the demands of electric sportscar owners, Michelin has pledged to neutralize the CO
2
 emissions associated with the tyre’s production and transport to its point of sale. This process includes the financing of projects aimed at offsetting and absorbing the residual CO
2
emissions associated with tyre production through the Livelihoods carbon fund until the day comes when it will be possible to eliminate them entirely.

The Pilot Sport EV will go on sale from April 2021, starting with the China market, followed by Europe and North America from the third quarter of this year. By 2024, Michelin plans to increase its sales in the high-growth markets by a factor of eight.

Click here for other news and articles about Michelin
.


First Sime Darby Auto Performance pop-up store launched in Malaysia!

The very first Sime Darby Auto Performance pop-up store in Malaysia opens its doors to the public earlier today. Located in the heart of Penang, the official custodian of the premium car brand Porsche launched their latest 1,603 square-feet endeavour at the Gurney Paragon shopping mall, Jalan Kelawai.

With this newly-launched SDAP pop-up store, all Porsche customers and enthusiasts will be able to experience a fine choice of Porsche-related reading materials while enjoying a good cup of premium coffee. Designed to provide ultimate comfort and luxury, the facility is also equipped with all of the latest modern conveniences.

According to Mr Christopher Hunter, CEO of SDAP, “As part of our commitment to a priceless and unique ownership experience for our owners in the Northern region, the new pop-up store offers drop off service for customers by appointment for vehicle service maintenance. We understand how busy life can be, which is why we want to make it as convenient as possible. Customers can opt to leave their vehicle at the drop off area of the new pop store while we handle the transporting and servicing at Porsche Centre Penang.”

Placed strategically in the middle of the store is a beautiful Porsche 718 Cayman SportDesign Series ready to welcome all visitors. Designed for the ultimate performance and visual expressions, the SportDesign Package equipped 718 Cayman portrays a ‘subtle carbon fibre design for an extra element of individualisation’.

Interested individuals may also opt for test drive sessions where all can be arranged at the pop-up store prior an appointment with the good folks at Porsche Centre Penang. Want to look apart? the latest range of Porsche Driver’s Selection apparel and accessories are also available at the pop-up store.

For more information, head over to the SDAP pop-store located at the Gurney Paragon shopping mall or contact Porsche Centre Penang.