Over a million Volvos being recalled worldwide

UPDATE: It appears that Volvo has revised the number to 507,000 units worldwide.

It has been learnt that Volvo Cars is issuing a safety recall for over one million of its cars worldwide manufactured between 2014 and 2019. The cars are all equipped with 4-cylinder diesel engines and include the V40, V60, V70, S80, XC60 and XC90.

According to a BVT, a news broadcaster in Sweden, the recall was confirmed by a spokesperson of the company. The problem relates to the possibility of a component or components inside the engine melting and in an extreme case, starting a fire. So far, there are said to be no accidents or injuries due to this being reported.

Volvo diesel engine

Normal procedures by carmakers in such cases where there are dangers to owners will be to notify owners of the recall. They would be given an explanation of why there is a recall (and the urgency to respond) and to bring their vehicle to an authorised service centre for the necessary inspection and rectification work to be done. All costs related to the recall would be borne by the manufacturer.

Volvo Cars Malaysia has not sold diesel models for some time so there would not be an action needed in this market. The last diesel model sold was the XC90 D5 in 2009 but the company found that due to uncertainty of the upgrading of the fuel, it was hard to plan for the introduction of new models which would require even cleaner diesel. Euro-5 diesel is now available, though, but there is also the impending issue of the government pressing for B10 biodiesel to be introduced soon.


Honda Malaysia opens first ‘green’ 3S centre in Ipoh, Perak

The first ever Honda Malaysia Gold-Rated Building Index 3S Centre has just been launched and it is in Ipoh, Perak. Operated by Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd, the RM15 million showroom is the first of its kind to receive the Green Building Index (GBI) award.

What is GBI? It is a green rating tool for buildings recognised by the Malaysia industry focused on raising awareness on environmental issues and promoting sustainability in the built environment. In short, the latest Honda showroom in Ipoh is Malaysia’s first environmentally friendly vehicle showroom and service centre.

The building comes with features that make use of natural resources efficiently, which will help in waste minimisation, energy saving and reduce water usage. The requirements that they had to achieve in order to receive such an award were:

60% natural daylight use through its large glass openings and skylights

Zonal energy efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting with motion sensors

Natural ventilation through stack and cross ventilation in the workshop area

100% potable offset for landscape and Water Closet (WC) flushing

According to Honda Malaysia Managing Director and CEO, Mr Toichi Ishiyama, “As one of the oldest Honda dealerships in Malaysia, Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) continues to impress us with their challenging spirit and successes. This award-winning dealership has now set a new benchmark by being the first to build and develop an environmentally friendly Honda 3S Centre that maximizes resource efficiency and focuses on the building’s sustainability.”

“In Honda, we are committed to reducing the environmental footprint. To achieve this, we take the initiative to utilize the innovative green technologies in our daily operations and products. I am proud that Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) is also practising the same by enhancing the usage of green technologies. Honda Malaysia believes this new environmentally friendly Honda 3S Centre will enable customers in Ipoh to experience great services in an even more conducive environment.”

Honda’s latest showroom includes 19 bays which can accommodate up to 60 cars on any given day and customers who service their cars here can enjoy amenities such as its comfortable customer lounges, complimentary Wi-Fi services, Kid’s Corner, free flow food and beverages as well as Muslim Prayer Room.

To know more, customers can contact Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) (Honda 3S Centre) at 05-292 7333 or you can just drive to their location at No 2, Jalan Sri Klebang A/13, Bandar Baru Sri Klebang, 31200, Chemor, Perak. Additionally, you may also head over to www.honda.com.my for more information.


Additional Hyundai N models in next two years (for North America)

Hyundai has announced that it will introduce more new N and N Line models in the sports, sedan and SUV segments of the US market during 2021 and 2022. This steady flow of new models under the N performance sub-brand will include variants in each major vehicle category, including three purist N models and four N Line models.

The Korean carmaker says it is offering N models in each of these categories so that enthusiasts from every segment can enjoy driving a new N model.

Tucson N Line to be introduced in 2021

The next new model in Europe will be the Tucson N Line and teaser images have been released. As the images show, the Tucson N Line will offer aggressive and distinctive exterior design features, with differentiating interior details. Unique equipment and colour selections are also planned for production models.

The N Line range serves as an entry-level to the N brand. These models more dynamic design features and enhanced driving experience.

Elantra N in camouflage

Up to 7 models currently in N range

The N brand currently consists of variants of the i10, i20, i30 (Hatchback and Fastback), Kona, Elantra, Veloster and Sonata although availability in different regions varies.

“I’m proud of what our talented N brand engineers, designers and product development teams have in store for enthusiast customers. Hyundai is committed to developing exciting, heart-charging N models in varied segments that reflect our passion to indulge enthusiasts. We’re confident that enthusiasts will relish the agility and performance of our new N Line models,” said Olabisi Boyle, Vice-President, Product Planning and Mobility Strategy, Hyundai Motor North America.

The Story of N – Hyundai N (w/VIDEO)


More Advanced Honda SENSING Systems With Enhanced Capabilities Being Developed

Honda, like other responsible carmakers, has been committed to ensuring that road accidents caused by motor vehicles are reduced, if possible to zero. After all, it supplies those vehicles and therefore has to ensure that they are not only safe to use but also safe to other road-users.

It has constantly introduced new safety features and systems in its vehicles as new technologies have been developed. Today, its Honda SENSING system integrates many active safety systems to work more effectively and intelligently to assist the driver and also prevent accidents. The Honda SENSING suite was first introduced in 2015 with the CR-V and has been included with new models since then.

Honda SENSING is being continuously improved and apart from the basic system – which already consists of a number of active systems – there are additional versions such as Honda SENSING 360 and Honda SENSING Elite for more sophisticated applications in certain models.

Coverage all round
Honda SENSING 360 (also known as AcuraWatch) was introduced last year as an omnidirectional safety and driver-assistive system. Its expanded sensing range covers not only the front and rear but, as the ‘360’ indicates, all around the vehicle. China was the first market to get Honda SENSING 360 which will be available in models sold in major markets by 2030.

In a couple of years, the system will be upgraded with new technologies which will be able to accurately detect abnormal conditions occurring to the driver and the vehicle’s surroundings. By reducing health-related or human error-triggered collisions with these new technologies, Honda hopes drivers will be encouraged to use their vehicles more confidently and travel further.

Most pre-collision systems will apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not act in time but the more advanced Honda SENSING system will also assist in steering the car away from the car ahead if a collision is likely to occur.

The improved Honda SENSING 360 system will begin rolling out in the 2nd half of the decade and will be standard on all new Honda and Acura models in the U.S. by 2030.

Level 3 autonomous capability
Honda also will accelerate the advancement and popularization of Honda SENSING Elite, which will be the most advanced Honda SENSING system with additional advanced safety technologies. Currently, the system, which was introduced in Japan last year, has an advanced Traffic Jam Pilot function which allows Level 3 automated driving (conditional automated driving in limited area). Traffic Jam Pilot technology enables the automated driving system to drive the vehicle, instead of the driver, under certain conditions such as when the vehicle is in congested traffic on an expressway.

Alerting the occupants of a bicycle or vehicle coming up behind before they open the door is a safety feature that is being added with systems like Honda SENSING 360.

For vehicle control, the system determines the position of the vehicle and road conditions using data from 3-dimensional high-definition maps and the global navigation satellite system, while detecting the vehicle’s surroundings using several external sensors that provide 360-degree input.

Honda SENSING Elite already has system with Level 3 automated driving features.

At the same time, the system tracks the condition of the driver using a monitoring camera mounted inside the vehicle. Based on this wide range of information, the main ECU recognizes current conditions, anticipates future conditions and applies a high-level of control to acceleration, braking and steering inputs to assist the driver and achieve high-quality and smooth driving.

These technologies relate to autonomous motoring where the driver will be able to take his hands off the steering wheel in certain areas and conditions. There will also be assistance for the driver on non-expressways where it will be possible to use the hands-off function while driving through a traffic jam on an arterial road. Automatic parking in and driving out of a home garage will also be possible.

Becoming more intelligent
Honda SENSING Elite’s intelligence will be continuous enhanced as it accumulates ‘experiences’, just like human brain development. In the development of the system, approximately 10 million patterns of possible real-world situations were simulated, and real-world demonstration tests were conducted on expressways for a total of approximately 1.3 million kms. Through being exposed to more experiences, its Artificial Intelligence will increase its capability to recognize complex scenes and handle driving situations that occur in complex environments.

Honda Malaysia adds City Hatchback variant with Honda SENSING

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Mercedes-EQ range gets second all-electric model – the EQE

Mercedes-Benz is steadily building up its Mercedes-EQ range of all-electric models and just a few months after the launch of the
EQS flagship
 comes a smaller version – the EQE. As the last alphabet suggests, this would be positioned in the same way as the successful
E-Class
 as a business sedan. It will be produced at factories in Germany as well as China (at a joint venture facility for that market only).

Compared to the EQS, the EQE has a more streamlined shape with a slightly shorter wheelbase, shorter overhangs and more recessed flanks to give a sportier image. The Sensual Purity design language is reflected in generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints and seamless transitions. Besides the pronounced muscular shoulder section, the rear gets a dynamic accent with a sharp rear spoiler to give an athletic character.

The overall body dimensions  are comparable to those of the CLS but thanks to the EVA2 architecture that is dedicated to electric vehicles, the cabin space is more generous than the E-Class (W213 model) with 80 mm more length.

Unconventional interior design

With the optionally available
MBUX Hyperscreen
, the entire instrument panel is a single widescreen. This determines the aesthetics of the entire cockpit and interior. The high-resolution screens merge seemingly seamlessly under the shared glass cover, integrated into the instrument panel in minimalist fashion.

The 12.3-inch OLED display for the front passenger provides a personal display and control area. On it, the passenger can watch videos, TV or even wander around the internet. As a safety measure in some markets, an intelligent, camera-based blocking logic can be included. If the camera detects that the driver is looking at the front passenger display, the display will be automatically dimmed for certain content.

The vent band spans across the entire width at the top and is very slim at the same time. These extreme proportions, together with the glass wave of the MBUX Hyperscreen, create the avant-garde architecture of the cockpit. The outer nozzles feature a turbine design. They play on the theme hyperanalogue through the contrast between high-tech precision mechanics and digital, glass display world.

‘Zero-level’ design for MBUX

The EQE has the latest MBUX generation, introduced with the EQS. With adaptive software, the control and display concept completely adapts to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. Unlike the early systems with many layers in the menus, MBUX has a ‘zero-layer’ design so 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. In this way, the EQE driver is relieved of certain operating steps and can focus more on driving.

The EQE will come with the Electric Art interior ex-factory. Wraparound surfaces in the side bolsters of the seats enhance body support and stand in stark contrast to the seat centre panel which has a sophisticated seam pattern similar to a fan palm.

If the AMG Line interior is specified, there will be sports seats. These are characterised by a slim and monolithic shape and act like integral seats. The seat surfaces are designed in such a way that they give the impression of draped-on leather covers, a technical term known as ‘layering’.

Two models initially

The EQE 350 with 215 kW plus a second model will be the initial offering. All EQE models have an electric drivetrain (eATS) on the rear axle. The later performance versions (with around 500 kW) with all-wheel drive 4MATIC will also be equipped with an eATS at the front axle. The lithium-ion battery pack consists of 10 modules and has a usable energy content of 90 kWh. The innovative battery management software, developed in-house, allows updates over the air so that energy management remains optimised throughout the life cycle.

To avoid electric shocks and short circuits, Mercedes-Benz engineers developed a multi-stage high-voltage (HV) safety concept comprising 7 key elements. Alongside the battery, part of the high-voltage system includes all components with a voltage level higher than 48V. The protection concept provides a high degree of safety when driving, both during and after a crash. All HV components are protected with to the IP 6K9K class, which means that they are completely sealed against dust as well as protected against water when cleaned with high pressure/steam jets.

Special seals help to protect the HV components against water penetration. In flood situations, the components may be switched off by appropriate over-current protection measures, such as fuses. An electrical hazard can be ruled out as the HV voltages do not become accessible to the user despite water penetration and the HV system is deactivated immediately.

Integral Safety for all models

The principles of Integral Safety, in particular accident safety, apply regardless of the platform. Like all other Mercedes-Benz models, the EQE therefore has a rigid passenger cell, special deformation zones and modern restraint systems. With its new architecture for EVs, new possibilities for the safety concept were available. For example, a favourable location could be chosen for the installation of the battery, in a crash-protected area in the underbody. Because there is no large crankcase in the engine, the behaviour in a frontal crash could also be modelled even better. Internally the new body structure bears the designation ‘flat-floor concept’.

The all-electric future of Mercedes-Benz

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Global debut of 4th generation Ford Ranger

The Ranger nameplate has been used by Ford since the late 1950s (for a sedan at that time) although it is only since the 1990s that the name gained prominence globally. This was when Ford used it on a new pick-up truck which it developed as an ‘Asian Car’ – in contrast to the low-priced sedans that Toyota and Honda developed (the Soluna/Vios and City). Ford had developed it as a ‘compact’ (by American standards) truck primarily for the ASEAN and emerging markets.

The Ranger was to be produced at a brand new factory built in Thailand in preparation for the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) which would enable vehicles from one country to be imported into another ASEAN country with no import duties imposed. In other words, AFTA would be a single trading bloc with over 550 million potential customers.

The new model was developed jointly with Mazda, which called its model the
BT-50
. The vehicles would be built at the Auto Alliance Thailand factory which was also jointly owned by the two companies. Since the late 1990s, three generations have been produced there and today, Ford has revealed the fourth generation that should start going on sale early next year.

Three generations of the Ranger.

New product development partner

Apart from a generation change, this new Ranger is also no longer a joint development by Ford and Mazda. The partnership ended with the third generation and Mazda has been working with Isuzu for its next BT-50 while Ford teamed up with Volkswagen, which will use the new model as the basis for its next Amarok.

From what reports suggest, Ford’s expertise in trucks (its first purpose-built truck was introduced in 1917) has given it a lead role and much of the new Ranger will be used by Volkswagen, although the German carmaker has been quick to also say that its model will have unique ‘Volkswagen DNA’.

Sketch of Volkswagen’s new Amarok which will be adapted from the new Ford Ranger (below)

It won’t be the first time that Volkswagen is working with another company for its trucks. Back in the late 1980s, the carmaker signed a deal with Toyota for the supply of its Hilux model which would be assembled in Germany as part of the VW range. The model was called the
Taro
 and it was produced from 1989 till 1997. With Ford, Volkswagen is probably involved in a more meaningful way than was the case with the Hilux Taro. However, it is Ford that is giving the new truck its global debut first, and VW will probably unveil its new Amarok sometime next year.

Iconic features with F-150 inspiration

To most people, the new Ranger probably looks pretty much like the previous one. After all, with a truck, how different can the design be and it is more of the styling in certain areas that usually receive the radical changes. For this new model, the design team looked at the much larger F-150 truck and also considered the iconic features that have evolved with the Ranger over the years.

“Some of us looked to nature, some to architecture and some others to art for inspiration. We didn’t hold back. We let our designers loose to really go for it,” said Max Tran, the chief designer for the new Ranger who was based in Australia.

The bold looks are maintained and the evolutionary changes can be seen in the surface treatments that are stronger and more muscular. The most obvious change is in the ‘face’ and ‘eyes’, ie the grille and the headlights flanking it. The ‘C-clamp’ daytime running lights at the edges of the headlights provide the truck with its unique signature, a feature which you will also see in the smaller Maverick.

All the pictures released today show a double cab with 4 doors, the most popular bodystyle. It’s not known if Ford will also have a 2-door version which is popular in some markets as a workhorse vehicle. There are pronounced wheelarches and a stronger shoulder line running along the sides.

With the second generation, Ford’s designers began to enlarge the brand logo so it would be more visible from a distance and also appropriate to the size of the vehicle. For this new generation, there is also a large sculpted ‘RANGER’ name stamped on the lower portion of the tailgate. The tailgate, with a hint of an aerodynamic spoiler, is flanked by lighting units designed to harmonize with the headlight style.

Longer wheelbase, wider track

Ford has not released any detailed technical data and while the overall size looks the same, there is mention of a 50 mm increase in track and 50 mm longer wheelbase. The wheelbase extension is achieved by moving the front wheels forward, which gives a better approach angle and outboard for better off-road articulation.

The platform is essentially the same traditional ladder-frame chassis which is tough and good for carrying heavy loads. While some carmakers have begun moving towards a monocoque structure, Ford probably realizes that most of its customers want the ‘Built Ford Tough‘ capability and the ladder frame is better.

A hydro-formed front-end structure creates more space in the engine bay and helps future-proof the Ranger for other propulsion technologies (a hint of a hybrid or even a BEV powertrain?). It also opens up the front of the truck to allow more airflow to the radiator, which helps keep running temperatures low when towing or carrying heavy loads.

More focus on ride and handling

However, with truck usage having changed from off-road workhorse duties to daily transportation and leisure, ride comfort and handling have become more important. To improve this, the engineers shifted the rear suspension dampers outboard of the frame rails while retaining the same layout.

“On the Next-Generation Ranger, we’ve increased the tuning range to give our customers the best of both worlds – think of this as ‘Built Ford Tough
Plus
’ – so you’ve got the capability, toughness and durability that Ford trucks are known for, plus comfort and a more car-like ride that Ranger is known for,” said Graham Pearson, Ranger vehicle program director.

Three turbodiesel engines

At launch, Ford has three engine choices for most of the new Ranger’s markets outside the USA (which may also want petrol engines). These are all turbodiesels, with a new 3-litre V6 to meet customer requests for more power and torque to tow heavy loads or for serious off-roading. It’s not the first 3-litre that the Ranger is having as it has had this engine size before, but with 4 cylinders. Output numbers are not provided but if it is similar to the engine in the F-150, then it would be in the region of 250 bhp and almost 600 Nm.

2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine is carried over from the current Ranger.

The other two engines are familiar units which power the current generation. These are 4-cylinder commonrail engines with a 2-litre displacement and either a single turbo or a bi-turbo. If not improved, the outputs will be 210 bhp/500 Nm and 178 bhp/420 Nm, respectively.

Transmission choices include an updated 10-speed automatic, with the current 6-speed automatic (depending on variant and market). The e-shifter has a short and stubby design with manual selection done using buttons on the side of the shifter – Ford’s preferred way of doing it.  Manual transmission isn’t mentioned but this is likely to also be available for those markets that want it.

There will be 4×4 as well as 4×2 drivetrains with electronic rotary shifters that allow switching between high and low ranges on the move. Some versions will be available with an advanced full-time 4×4 system, giving the same sort of experience as a SUV.

Incidentally, in future, the Ranger will be able to receive over-the-air (OTA) updates for software so that the updates can be done without going to a service centre. These save the customer time and also keep the vehicle running at its best with the most current software.

Leadership in safety

Nothing is said about safety and it could be that the Ranger’s leadership in this area (in its segment) has equipped it with many advanced systems that Ford can just continue with the present provisions. In fact, even from the first Ranger, Ford showed that even truck drivers’ lives were valuable and provided safety features that most other trucks did not have.

Even in the current Wildtrak, there is Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Semi-Automatic Parallel Parking and Adaptive Cruise Control, as well as airbags at the front and sides of the cabin. These would surely continue to be included and perhaps with improved performance as well.

Customer-influenced interior design

For the cabin, customer input was key to what was expected and this was drawn from more than 5,000 interviews and dozens of customer workshops around the planet. They wanted a flexible, modern cockpit that would cater to both work and family duties. To provide this, Ford provides smart and connected features with more comfort and storage options than ever before.

“We know our customers are looking for a smart and functional interior space that feels comfortable. So, we set about designing it with a high level of well-integrated technology, clever functional storage and visual cues so the environment feels comfortable and spacious,” Tran said.

The heart of the Ranger’s connectivity experience is the large 10.1-inch or 12-inch touchscreen in the middle of the dashboard, a styling feature which is also used in recent Ford models. It complements the fully digital instrument panel and uses Ford’s latest SYNC4 system. This system has voice-activated communications and infotainment, allowing the driver to keep hands on the steering wheel as much as possible.

Many of the traditional driving mode controls have been moved from the dashboard and centre console to their own dedicated display on the SYNC screen. With one button press, drivers can go to Ranger’s dedicated screen for all off-road and drive modes where they can monitor the driveline, steering angle, vehicle pitch and roll angles and other controls.

The screen also is linked to a 360-degree camera to make parking easy or even to assist when driving over particularly tricky terrain. In addition, customers can control Ranger’s new exterior zone lighting system via the touchscreen, which means they don’t have to work, camp or do anything in the dark.

Functional and practical

The design team also created clever storage and useful features for owners. There are not only places to store a phone or charge it wirelessly but also a large centre console bin. In addition, the door pockets are designed to carry more, the wide dash conceals an upper glovebox and there are storage bins under and behind the rear seats.

Watching how owner use their trucks gave the designers ideas on how to improve some areas. For example, people were observed stepping on the tyres or pulling themselves up to get onto the open tailgate. This led to an integrated side-step behind the rear wheels, giving a more stable way for them to get into the cargo bed.

In addition, the Ranger team worked on making a wider variety of cargo fit and stay secure in the load box. “Widening the truck by 50 mm may not seem like a lot, but it makes a huge difference, especially in the cargo box. It means that customers will be able to load flat some pretty fundamental items, such as a sheet of building plywood or a full-size pallet,” said Anthony Hall, Ranger vehicle engineering manager.

Cargo bed as a workplace

Additional thoughtful, customer-focused touches include a new, tough plastic-moulded bedliner that helps protect both the truck bed from scratches and owner’s knees from kneeling on a steel truck bed. Extra cargo tie-down points – on strong steel tube rails – provide convenient points to secure loads. Durable, flexible load box caps around the sides of the box and across the tailgate conceal structural attachment points for canopies and other aftermarket accessories.

There’s a new cargo management system designed with dividers to hold various sized items – like timber or toolboxes. Owners also can create smaller compartments to store objects, which would otherwise have to go in the cab, using a system of ultra-strong spring-loaded cleats that clip into rails bolted to each side of the cargo box. The tailgate can also double as a mobile work bench with clamp pockets to measure, grip and cut building materials.

On some versions, zone lighting can give owners better visibility around the vehicle. Load box lighting is provided under the left and right rails and provides plenty of light for finishing up jobs in low light or finding things in the cargo box at night.

The Ranger will be built at Ford’s global production hubs in Thailand and South Africa and exported to some 180 countries. Production will begin in 2022 which is just around the corner so we can probably expect to see the new Ranger in Malaysia during the second or third quarter as the model is imported in CBU form from Thailand.

It will still be a while before the new Ranger arrives in Malaysia but you can inform an authorised Ford dealership of your interest and be updated. Or if you prefer the current Ranger, visit
www.sdacford.com.my
 to locate a showroom where you can test-drive one.

‘Live The Ranger Life’ celebrates Ford’s pick-up truck evolution into the modern lifestyle machine that it is today


2019 Proton Exora – First ‘talking MPV’ in Malaysia

Those who are looking for one of Malaysia’s best value for money MPV can add the 2019 Proton Exora into their list. Updated for 2019, the Exora offers great space, improved overall comfort, great power delivery, and enhanced intelligence thrown into the mix. Looking for an MPV that can sit seven full-sized adults comfortably? The 2019 Exora should be one of your go-to choices.

In terms of looks, the 2019 Proton Exora retains the true original essence of the previous generation but not without a few cosmetic updates for a better exterior. We’re talking new LED daytime-running lights, 16-inch two-toned alloy wheels, black roof panel, rear fog lamp, side skirt, rear finish, and shark fin antenna.

Step inside the cabin and there you’ll find the biggest updates for the 2019 Proton Exora. New interior upholstery provides a more luxurious and comfortable feel no matter where you sit. The driver is presented with a new meter combination that’s minimalistic and sufficient for any drive.

A touch of more premium-ness can be seen with the addition of the borderless rear-view mirror which not only looks great but offers a wider point of view for the driver. There’s also the Proton signature intelligent infotainment system with first-in-class features for their latest updated MPV.

There’s the voice command prompted by saying “Hi Proton” which in turn makes the 2019 Exora as the first ‘talking MPV’ here in Malaysia. Other features include mobile internet connectivity, online music streaming, navigation, and weather updates all accessible via its 7-inch centre full-colour touchscreen.

The same 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine still kicks up a respectful 138hp at 5,000rpm and 205Nm of maximum torque from as low as 2,000rpm. This translates to the same power delivery as a bigger 2.0-litre non-aspirated engine but with better efficiency. This is paired with comfort driving thanks to the Proton Ride & Handling performance essence.

Other safety features include:

Twin front airbags

Electronic stability control (ESC)

All-round disc brakes

Anti-lock brakes (ABS)

Electronic brake distribution (EBD)

Rear parking sensors with reverse camera

Two models will be on offer which are the Exora 1.6T Executive priced at RM59,800 and Exora 1.6T Premium at RM66,800 (OTR prices without insurance). Four different standard Extra Value packages are also on offer for the updated 2019 Exora.

These include three-years free labour services package, internet data package with free internet package, low interest rate package (2.76%), and insurance package. On top of the standard Extra Value packages, Proton is also offering special Value-Added packages. Customers who buy the 2019 Exora this year will be given a five-year or 11 times free labour service package.

The first 1,000 buyers will also be given free road tax for two years for private buyers and free road tax for one year for corporate customers. Combined with the price reduction and the value of the new features introduced, all additional benefits for the 2019 Exora adds up to between RM4,233 to RM5,652.

To know more, head over to
www.proton.com
 or make your way to the nearest Proton showroom.


Aston Martin Vulcan taken to new extremes with AMR Pro package

Aston Martin has been dominating the news these past few days and rightly so, considering that it announced several new releases and the fact that will be using Mercedes-Benz engines in its future cars. This time around, the news is on the wildest car to come from Gaydon, being made even wilder. The car in question, is the Vulcan fitted with the AMR Pro package.

After the upgrade, the car is badged as an AMR, Aston’s newly created performance brand. Compared with the base Vulcan, this upgrade gives the car extensive aerodynamic enhancements and shortened gearing to produce increased downforce, greater responsiveness and reduced lap times.

The aerodynamic changes that are made include loured panels added above the front wheel arches to extract high pressure air and reduce aerodynamic lift. A sizable pair of dive planes have been added to each side of the nose to help pin the front-end to the track and the front splitter has turning vanes fitted to its underside to improve steering response. Through some clever engineering, the car’s engine cover has been lightened too, by an impressive 5kg.

As for the rear, the changes are just as extensive as those at the front thanks to a new rear wing. Unlike that of the standard Vulcan, the AMR Pro’s wing has a dual plane design rather than a single plane one, and its main element features a 20mm ‘Gurney’ flap that is aided by slotted wing end-plates that have additional 15mm Gurneys to maximize downforce.

All these tweaks combined, give the AMR Pro 4000Nm of downforce compared to the standard Vulcan’s 3150Nm. This figure dwarfs that of the downforce generated by the 2017 Le Mans Winning Aston Martin Racing Vantage GTE with just 3104Nm. They have also allowed the Centre of Pressure to be shifted closer to the middle at 47% compared to 41.5% of the base Vulcan. This will help improve traction, steering response and front-end grip.

Speaking of this upgrade pack Aston Martin Vice President and Chief Special Operations Officer, David King, said, “The shorter gearing makes for truly explosive acceleration between the corners, while the aero package’s increased downforce and improved balance gives our customers the all-important confidence to explore the extraordinary performance on offer.”

Having said all of this, the standard Vulcan is no slouch. Prior to the introduction of the AMR Pro package, it was the fastest, loudest and meanest looking Aston Martin to be made. It produces an impressive 820bhp from its colossal 7.0-litre V12 engine, coupled with a kerb weight of just 1,350kg, the car is nothing less than a rocketship.

Production was limited to just 24 cars and was delivered to customers throughout 2016. It was conceived  and engineered to deliver similar excitement but exceed the performance of the automaker’s Le Mans winning race cars. Owners of the Vulcan have received extensive driver training by Aston Martin’s expert team of instructors to enable them to hone their skills at being able to tame the relatively bullish Vulcan.

The AMR Pro is an upgrade package that will be fitted to existing Vulcan cars in stages and depending on whether customers are keen to get the upgrade done. The package will be installed by Q by Aston Martin Advanced Operations. An already completed AMR Pro will be make an appearance at the Good Wood Festival of Speed today.


PETRONAS to end sponsorship of Mercedes-AMG F1 team after 2021 season

The PETRONAS name will be absent from the racing cars of the successful Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 team after this year’s championship ends. It has been confirmed that the team, which has won 7 world championships, will no longer have Malaysia’s national oil corporation as its title sponsor. This comes after over 10 years of association between the team and the oil company, although its involvement in F1 goes back as far as 1995. The latest development follows Petronas’ ending of their MotoGP title sponsorship at the end of this year and no longer being associated with the Yamaha SRT team.

Over the years, Petronas has used its association with Formula 1 for many marketing activities, leveraging on the development efforts in fuels and technology. More than 50 engine oils, transmission fluids and hydraulic fluids have been developed for the racing cars to use in extreme conditions. The technologies and knowledge from such developments have eventually been used to develop commercial products for sale to the public.

It would certainly have been very expensive and while Petronas products are available in around 65 countries, many may not know it is a Malaysian company (although ‘MALAYSIA’ has occasionally been put on the cars. But the same can also be said of other major sponsors like Repsol, Santander and certainly, not many of the 500 million people who watch F1 worldwide will be aware that the ORLEN which sponsors the Alfa Romeo F1 team is a Polish petroleum company. Brands like Marlboro, Rolex and even Dell would have more global presence and recognition.  But Petronas believes the money has been well spent: in 2016, it estimated the value of brand exposure in F1 from 1995 was worth more than US$900 million.

Saudi Aramco to take over as title sponsor?

In place of Petronas, Mercedes-AMG is expected to have another oil company – Saudi Aramco. As the main company operating in Saudi Arabia, it has the world’s largest network of oilfields and its revenues are chart-topping. Saudi Aramco (which stands for Arabian American Company) is state-owned and was established in 1933. Described as an integrated oil and gas company, it is mainly in upstream activities and has no visible internationalpresence in consumer products, unlike most other oil companies. It does, however, have a network of fuel and service stations (in partnership with Total of France) in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Aramco, which has been operating for 88 years, is active mainly in upstream oil and gas activities. It also has a network of fuel and service stations under the Sahel brand which is in partnership with Total of France.

The tie-up with Mercedes-AMG is the second major involvement in F1. Last year, Saudi Aramco announced a long-term global sponsorship with the sport, its first global sponsorship of a major sporting event.

“We are excited to partner with Formula 1, a strong global sports brand with millions of fans around the world. As the world’s largest energy supplier and an innovation leader, we have the ambition to find game-changing solutions for better-performing engines and cleaner energy. Partnerships like these are important to help us to deliver on our ambitions,” said Saudi Aramco’s CEO & President, Amin H. Nasser.

Involvement in F1 since 1980s

Saudi Aramco’s involvement in F1 is not Saudi Arabia’s first association with the sport. Older readers will remember that, in the 1980s, Saudia Airlines (the country’s national airline) sponsored the Williams team. Though the Saudia name was the most prominent, Frank Williams also managed to get eight other supporters from Saudi Arabia’s growing business community.

Saudia Airlines was one of the Saudi Arabian companies that were sponsors for the Williams F1 team in the 1980s.

The group included TAG (Techniques d’avant Garde), an advanced technology company which was founded by a Saudi businessman. TAG (which bought over the Heuer watchmakers) first sponsored Williams and the McLaren. Today, it also has a major share in the McLaren Group. More recently, TAG Heuer has been a major partner in the all-electric Formula E series as well, along with Saudia Airlines.

Major motorsports events in Saudi Arabia

The country’s ‘Vision 2030’ is also bringing Saudi Arabia into the 21st century and its society is changing, eg women have been allowed to drive cars since 2018. As a result, it has attracted three major motorsports events to be run in the country to boost tourism. The Dakar Rally and Extreme E Desert X-Prix, which were run in the deserts for the first time in 2020 and 2021, respectively, and later this year, the first ever F1 race in the streets of Jeddah. All are significant events which will be widely publicized, and organisers have made deals to run them over a number of years.

The first round of the inaugural Extreme E electric off-road series was run in Saudi Arabia in April this year.

2022 Formula 1 calendar to have 23 races, with season-opener in Bahrain


Aston Martin emerge victorious at Nurburgring 24 Hours

Aston Martin had an eventful weekend which finally led to it clinching the win in the 2017 ADAC Nurburgring 24 Hours SP8 category. It’s GT8 race car piloted by Darren Turner survived a torrential downpour without incident to reach the finish line ahead of all its rivals. The late storm covered a third of the 20.832km circuit, making it very challenging for everyone to stay on track.

The Aston Martin Vantage GT8 led its class for much of the race thanks to its revolutionary active oil management system. The car was performing so well that for much of the night, it was able to keep up with more powerful GT3 cars in higher classes as well as run with the top 30 cars in the race.

Despite the heavy downpour, Aston Martin elected to keep Turner on track with dry weather tyres rather than risk loosing positions with a pit-stop. The team felt that it had enough of a lead to maintain its position despite the traction deficit from the tyres.

Thankfully, the tactic paid off, and Turner managed to nurse the car to the chequered flag in 21st position and 1st in its class. Turner was joined by co-drivers reigning FIA World Endurance Champion Nicki Thiim and Peter Cate on the podium for a much deserved celebration.

Speaking of the hard fought win, Turner said, “When you have heavy rain here, it might only fall on a third of the track. So you really want to wait until it looks like everything is going to get wet before changing tyres. It’s great to have won here at the Nordschleife. You are constantly fighting the circuit and the elements here rather than the competition. This is a hard track, in what is effectively a production car, and to survive that is testament to the build and quality of the Vantage GT8.”

The near to production Vantage GT8 shares very little with a GT3 spec race car. In fact, the car runs with a standard V8 engine, gearbox and electronics that is similar to what you would get from a conventional Vantage. This is a testament to the capabilities of the car at running with higher powered racers and still being able to keep up with them.


More Petronas Auto Expert service centres now in Klang Valley

The
Petronas Auto Expert service centre
 which has been developed by Petronas Lubricants Marketing Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PLMMSB) and launched last April is now seeing a rapid growth in numbers around the Klang Valley area as part of their development plan.

As of November 2019, there are now seven Petronas Auto Expert service centres which are operational. Phase One of this automotive project is mainly focused on the Klang Valley area and knowing how the giant brand works, it won’t be long before we see Petronas Auto Expert outlets scattered across the country to promote not only their great services but also their premium auto lubricant product, Petronas Syntium.

According to Muhammad Eezam Masripan, operator of three Petronas Auto Expert outlets, “Petronas has been very helpful in our long-term plans for the automotive service industry. Out sales have jumped by over 120% compared to before we shifted our service centre in Shah Alam to Petronas Auto Expert.”

“Feedbacks from customers old and new have indicated to us that this automotive service concept by Petronas can be competitive and has the potential to develop even further. We are very grateful with the cooperation and guidance given by Petronas in helping us grow,” added Muhammad Eezam.

Petronas has assured that each and every customer will be given full attention from the trained mechanics and experts which are experienced in everything related to automotive servicing from using high-tech equipment for vehicle diagnostics to basic servicing, checks, and everything in between.

Those who are interested to experience the Petronas Auto Expert service centres can check out the list of retailers, below.

PETRONAS Auto Expert Shah Alam Seksyen 15

No 43, Jalan 15/23, Seksyen 15,

Tiong Nam Industrial Park,

40200 Shah Alam, SELANGOR

Tel: 018-242 4680

Map:
https://g.page/AutohausKLShahAlam?share

PETRONAS Auto Expert Seri Kembangan

No 1, Jalan BPP 5/2,

Pusat Bandar Putra Permai,

3300 Seri Kembangan, SELANGOR

Tel: 019-272 6262

Map:
https://g.page/ahklsk2?share

PETRONAS Auto Expert Sri Manja

No 1, Jalan Sri Manja 12,

Taman Sri Manja,

46000 Petaling Jaya, SELANGOR

Tel: 016-318 3155

Map:
https://g.page/autohausklpj?share

PETRONAS Auto Expert Sri Batu Caves

No 20, Jalan SBC5,

Taman Sri Batu Caves,

68100 Batu Caves, SELANGOR

Tel: 016-350 4752

Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/vFEh4AWhX328RyFLA

PETRONAS Auto Expert Semenyih

No 4G, 6G & 8G, Jalan 5/11,

Bandar Rinching,

43500 Semenyih, SELANGOR

Tel: 017-266 5449

Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/wUwPjR2DoLiftB9D8

PETRONAS Auto Expert Kajang

No 23G, Jalan Putra 2,

Taman Putra Kajang,

43000 Kajang, SELANGOR

Tel: 014-668 8387

Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/bfN5J9Uy2cQiVTnD6

PETRONAS Auto Expert Bandar Bukit Raja

No 7-1A, Persiaran Astana,

Bandar Bukit Raja,

41050 Klang, SELANGOR

Tel: 012-904 4584

Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/ux4doJMeT8Btr6QS9

PETRONAS Holds Inaugural EV Fluids Symposium In Italy


Babyark Offers The Very Best Protection For Small Children In A Car

How much is the life of your child worth? Every parent will answer ‘priceless’, of course. Every effort will be made to ensure that this priceless human will be well protected from any kind of harm. And when it comes to travelling in a motor vehicle, that means providing the best protection in the event of an accident.

For small children, specially designed childseats to suit their smaller size have been in use since the early 1960s. Evolving from the designs by Jean Ames and Leonard Rivkin in 1962, childseats have offered better protection and comfort with the use of new materials and structures. Today, there is a wide variety of childseats and international standards to ensure they provide sufficient protection.

For parents who want to give their child the very best protection, babyark, an innovative child safety tech company, has introduced a new childseat for babies (and up to 6 years old) that is very advanced. It is designed and engineered to meet the highest standards of safety using unique impact-absorbing technology, advanced materials including carbonfibres and a comprehensive connected sensor system.

The baby seat, which also has the same name as the company, was developed by Frank Stephenson Design. Stephenson is the man responsible for the design of some of the most powerful and iconic cars including BMWs, Ferraris, Maseratis, McLarens, MINI and Fiat 500 models. For the babyseat, Stephenson drew inspiration from the worlds of aerospace engineering and performance cars and utilising military-grade technology.

Frank Stephenson, designer of the babyark, has also designed BMWs, Ferraris, Maseratis, McLarens, MINI and the Fiat 500.

Like the structure around the cabin of modern cars which forms a safety cell to protect the occupants, the babyark has the structural integrity and simplicity of an egg and is shaped like a pod. With energy-absorbing technology and a lightweight carbonfibre frame, the seat’s ‘SafeCoil’ steel-based shock absorption system gently slows the seat forward momentum at a safe and controlled rate.

The seat is also geared with a unique ‘BioArk’ side impact protection, bio-mimicking the woodpecker’s unique plate-like bone natural protection system. Accelerometers and gyroscopes within the seat can record the force of any crash and the data will let users know whether the seat can be reused. Naturally, all materials used are flame-retardant as well.

14 sensors are installed in the seat’s base, constantly monitoring a wide range of parameters.  babyark can signals to the caregiver if the seat is properly installed and, in addition, via a smartphone app, it will signal if the child is properly buckled.

The babyark seat can be installed both rear-facing and front-facing positions, depending on the child’s age and weight. For infants and small toddlers, it should be rear-facing, while for children who weigh more than 25 kgs, it should ‘convert’ to front-facing position.

Securing the seat in the car is done using LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) which is the American version of the ISOFIX standard for installing childseats without using seatbelts. These dedicated systems provide a more secure and stable installation and the mounting points are found in most new cars today.

“After my time within the automotive industry, I have always wanted to go beyond simply designing vehicle shapes. Safety standards and designs within the industry have evolved significantly, and yet we easily neglect the technology required for child safety. babyark’s disruptive business approach and its exposed design, which takes inspiration from protective shapes in nature around us, aims to embrace the occupant and provide safety and luxury for users,” said Stephenson of his first children’s product.

The babyark seat is sold online at US$1,190 (about RM5,380) and deliveries will start from May this year. Each purchaser will have the ForeverSafe warranty which relates to the SafeCoil shock-absorption system which upon impact is activated, requiring replacement. In such a case, the company will replace the entire seat free of charge (once per purchase).

Childseats with equivalent approval standards will be permitted, thanks to NGO’s proposal


Mega Deals Await At Malaysia’s Largest Automotive Showroom!

The Naza Automall
 is now back with more automotive brands, making it Malaysia’s first one-stop automotive gallery that offers exciting deals exclusively for Naza Automall customers.

Naza Automall customers can enjoy special packages, only available at the
one-stop automotive gallery
 for the four-wheel and two-wheel brands under the Naza Group. Additionally, the Naza Automall will also be offering deals for the MPV and SUV segments of other auto brands to meet the surge in demand for MPVs and SUVs lately.

For the full Naza brand experience, the Naza Automall will also be offering value for money promotions and special privileges for other businesses under the Group including property, agriculture, education, insurance and finance, and food and beverage.

“Naza Automall is the epi centre of our operations. We aspire to make this “the” one-stop destination for your automotive needs from entry to super luxury marques. The Automall also showcases the whole range of offerings from the Group such as property, education and F&B,”
 said
Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group
 (above).

To kick start the Naza Automall’s promotional campaign period, the Naza Group is rewarding its customers when they purchase their dream car or bike with a chance to win an A
ll-expense paid 4 days 3 nights trip to catch the 2018 FIFA World Cup semi-finals live in Moscow
. To find out more about how to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, head on over to the Naza Automall starting
1 May 2018.

“We are continuously looking for ways to show appreciation to our loyal fans and customers such as this 2018 FIFA World Cup Spend and Win contest. With more plans in the pipeline, Naza Automall visitors can look forward to enjoying more exciting deals and rewards in the near future,”
 Dato’ Samson added.

Accredited as the largest automotive showroom in Malaysia by the Malaysia Book of Records, Naza Automall will have on display 14 automotive brands both used and new from different segments and brands including Maserati, Kia, Peugeot, Citroën, Chevrolet, Ducati, Indian Motorcycle and Vespa.

The Naza Automall is an automotive enthusiast’s haven with a total build-up area of 250,000 square feet and can hold up to 2,000 cars at a time. Located in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, (along the Federal Highway) the Naza Automall is open from
9am to 6pm on weekdays and from 10am to 7pm on weekends.


BMW Malaysia Introduces New XM Label Red – 738hp, 997Nm For RM1,615,800!

The
BMW XM Label Red
 made its world debut at the Auto Shanghai international motor show in April 2023 shortly after the XM was launched in Malaysia.

The BMW XM Label Red is designed to fulfil the promise of an even more potent and opulent take on BMW’s sheer driving pleasure. It offers over 50 complimentary colour customization options for optimum personalization.

The standard BMW XM produces 644hp and 799Nm of torque. The BMW XM Label Red on the other hand has 738hp and a whopping 997Nm of torque. As a result, the BMW XM Label is the most powerful BMW ever produced.

The BMW XM Label Red is also faster in a straight line than the regular XM due to the enhanced power output. BMW claims the XM Label Red can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, which is faster than the 4.1 seconds claimed for the standard XM. Because of the increased torque, the Label Red should be faster and more fun in curves.

The distinctive BMW XM appearance is further improved in the New BMW XM Label Red by two new colour options for the accent strip, Toronto Red or Shadowline, both of which are matched by a red outline on the ‘XM’ model indication near the front door. With the new BMW Individual Visualizer, you may explore up to 50 different bespoke colour options for the new XM Label Red.

Two new wheel options are also available for the new SAV, adding to its individuality. A choice of either the 23-inch Star Spoke bicolour M light alloy wheels with a black accent and a Shadowline accent strip, or the bicolour 22-inch M light alloy wheels with red accents and a Toronto Red accent strip.

When you look inside the New BMW XM Label Red, the eye-catching bicolor design is still there on the plush upholstery, which has a diamond-shaped texture and red stitching. The instrument panel, door trim, and centre console are all accented in red.

The New BMW XM Label Red may be purchased using the Straight Line Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia with monthly payments starting at RM18,707.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a seven-year tenure).

Owners of the New BMW XM Label Red will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme
BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW Privileges Card
BMW Service Online

The retail pricing for the New BMW XM Label Red with 5-Year Extended Warranty and Service Package,
as well as Sales and Service Tax (on the road, without insurance) is:

The New BMW XM Label Red: RM1,615,800.00
The New BMW XM Label Red (Langkawi): RM 939,800

Customers may contact their preferred authorised BMW dealer to learn more about the New BMW XM Label Red or visit
www.bmw.com.my
.


UMW Toyota Motor sees sales increase in spite of semiconductor issues affecting production

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) continues to maintain its position in the non-national category with 7,442 units of Toyota and Lexus vehicles sold in May. Added to the cumulative volume for the first 4 months, this brings the company’s total sales in 2022 to 36,972 units at the end of May.

With almost 37,000 units sold, the cumulative volume for the first 5 months of 2022 is 9% higher than for the same period in 2021 which was 34,026 units. This increase is despite the forecast that vehicle sales in Malaysia will be slow for the rest of the year due to shortage of completed vehicles.

While there was no issue of shortage of semiconductors last year to prevent carmakers from completing vehicles, this is the situation in 2022 is making it difficult to achieve higher outputs to meet demand.

The strong demand up till now has also been driven by the expectation that sales tax (or GST) will be resumed after the end of June 2022 (although there are now rumours that it could be extended again). This has persuaded many car-buyers to make their purchase before the end of June in order to enjoy the savings.

“As we rev up for the second half of this year, we at UMW Toyota are truly appreciative and emboldened by the support we have received from our customers. It has always been our policy to put our customers first and we are always ready to extend our assistance to the many Toyota fans as we journey out of these uncertain times. We are looking forward to continued confidence in our products and servicing capabilities, backed by our advanced automotive technology and comforted by the security features of all our products. Here’s to a more positive outlook forging ahead,” said Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor.

Continuing with the monthly promotions, UMWT has offers worth RM4,000 for those who want to become owners of the Yaris or Vios. There are also money-saving offers for other models in the form of cash rebates.

UMW Toyota has new models in the pipeline for the second half of the year so they are expecting a further increase in numbers.

The company is also looking forward to running the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival on June 25/26 at the Sepang International Circuit. While the highlight of the event is the Vios Challenge one-make race, there are also other activities for all the family. Entry is free during the two days but the public should observe social distancing and wear facemasks to protect themselves as well as others around them.
Click here
 to read more about the upcoming Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival.

2022 Toyota Camry 2.5V – more than just a mid-cycle refresh with a brand new engine


Chery to launch new brand and vehicles for European market

Chery Automobiles Co., Ltd is planning on revealing a new compact SUV concept at the up coming Frankfurt Motor Show in September and under a new nameplate. It will mirror, in some form, the actual production vehicle that is aimed at the younger car buyer.

This nameplate, and the vehicles that bear its namesake will spearhead the Chinese automaker’s charge into the European passenger car market within the next few years. The adoption of a new brand name for the new line of vehicles may be a marketing ploy by Chery to ensure that it starts off with a clean slate instead of inheriting unwanted baggage.

“In just a few years we intend to start selling a family of vehicles in European markets across multiple segments, with power supplied by a range of electrified powertrains,” explains Chery CEO Dr. Anning Chen at Chery Automobile Co., Ltd.

Chery is also evaluating sales opportunities in key markets before it initializes the setting up European sales operations with its various import and distribution partners. This is probably toe ensure that it makes all the right moves in a market that is relatively unknown to the Chinese.

Chery has also stated that it hopes that the new design and R&D facilities in Europe accelerate its plans and efforts for global expansion. This news isn’t surprising considering that like Chery, Geely and its subsidiary, Volvo cars, recently agreed to technology sharing between the brands.

This in turn will allow Geely access to technology that should make its vehicles compelling alternatives to models offered by established European automakers. Chery, though lacking a such a treasure trove of sophisticated tech, may have the same goal in mind.

The Chinese automaker has also revealed its intentions of selling a range of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (P-HEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This should make it a formidable force in the EV segment in the next few years.


DS TECHEETAH previews design of its future Formula E racing car

Building on the support from leading car manufacturers, Formula E will officially become an FIA world championship starting from the 2020/2021 season (which typically starts towards the end of the year). As part of a constant process of innovation, the all-electric single-seater championship will introduce the Gen2 EVO, a restyled version of the current racing car.

DS Automobiles and its team partner DS TECHEETAH are already preparing for this new season with race livery design of their future racing car for Season 7. DS Automobiles and its sporting entity DS Performance successfully completed the transition between the two generations of Formula E cars. With a motor that increased to 250 kW and a battery of 52 kWh, the drivers can compete in an entire E-Prix distance without car change-overs. Aligned with DS TECHEETAH, the DS E-TENSE FE19 won the two Championship Drivers and Teams titles in the last season.

The current Formula E car run by DS TECHEETAH.

The Gen2 EVO car for Season 7.

How the car will evolve

Formula E will evolve the design of the car and changes will include modification of the front and rear appendages, addition of a ‘shark fin’ on the bonnet and opening of the front wheel arches. The design of the Gen2 EVO to be used by the DS TECHEETAH Team incorporates the facelift imagined for the next season while retaining the black and gold codes of the DS E-TENSE FE20.

“Formula E is as much a place of experimentation as it is a field of expression for DS Automobiles. We demonstrate our vision by having been the first premium manufacturer involved, our expertise in electrification by winning races and championships and our know-how by multiplying innovative actions around competition. Being the first team to present the design of our future single-seater is a new step in this commitment, ” said Beatrice Foucher, CEO of DS Automobiles.


CUPRA uses 3D printing for new TCR racing car’s parts (w/VIDEO)

At first glance, it looks like a normal mirror, but it isn’t. It is a 3D-printed part, a technology that CUPRA has begun to implement in the development of the new Leon Competition racing car in collaboration with HP. Greater agility, efficiency and flexibility are the benefits of a system that is set to revolutionise car development.

“For the new CUPRA Leon Competition, we modelled the steering wheel’s centre control module, the bonnet air vents, door mirrors and the brake and water-cooling inlets,” explained Xavi Serra, the Head of technical development at CUPRA Racing. “These parts were produced using HP’s industrial-grade Jet Fusion 5200 3D printing solution and included in the demanding development tests put to the new racing model.”

More efficiency, greater speed

The main goal with this technology, which offers multiple benefits, is to have a lot of parts in a short time. Engineers can quickly test a wide variety of designs and furthermore, since vehicle development is now done in parallel, this technology enables quicker response to any changes in the design process.

“The work with CUPRA demonstrates the power of 3D printing and digital manufacturing – changing the way the world designs and manufactures,” said Virginia Palacios, Head of Systems Product Management, 3D Printing & Digital Manufacturing, HP Inc.

Wind-tested 3D parts

In TCR competition, the door mirror is a part which, according to the rules, must have the same shape as the production car. But the CUPRA engineers went one step further. “We wanted to add an additional function, which is to cool the driver. We therefore had to design an air intake in the maximum pressure zone to achieve this effect,” said Xavi.

The place where these materials are tested is the wind tunnel, where the 3D-printed parts are verified in exactly the same way as the rest. “The bigger the variety of parts we can test in this facility, the better. It enables us to make much faster progress,” he added.

The new Leon Competition with its 3D printed parts was tested to the limit on the Portimao track in Portugal.

As it is a racing car, the final phase of development can only be carried out in one place: the circuit. “The results were excellent, and some were even surprising, because we were looking to push the material to its limits,” the CUPRA engineer reported.

Making complex ideas a reality – fast

“3D printing is going to signal a turning point in the automotive industry by accelerating lead times and HP 3D technology is helping designers create parts that could not be produced with other technologies,” said Palacios, predicting that the technology will continue to be key in countless fields to make the most complex ideas a reality.

Watch: Onboard a race-spec Seat Cupra around Sepang Circuit!


Hyundai N 2025 Vision included in Gran Turismo Sport vehicle pack

The highly anticipated PlayStation 4 racing game, Gran Turismo Sport, has now been made available for purchase worldwide. The game features some of the best graphics and gameplay ever seen on the gaming platform.

Like previous installments of Gran Turismo, the game has a whole host of amazing real world and concept vehicles that are bound to enthrall gamers and spectators alike. One of the main attractions of the game is the inclusion of a slew of concept vehicles designed by mainstream automakers especially for the game.

Manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Hyundai have their own respective Gran Turismo vehicles that will be featured in Gran Turismo Sport. Hyundai’s N 2025 Vision GT, which was introduced last year will be especially intriguing to try out in the game.

It incorporates styling from the prototype racing series as well as other open wheel competitions to form a body that looks both menacing and functional. It has been placed in the game’s Group 1 Category where it will join other manufacturers’ own virtual racers that bear the Vision Gran Turismo nomenclature.

These vehicles will also join other well-known real-world prototype racing cars from different manufacturers including Aston Martin, Bugatti and McLaren. Besides this, the game also features a plethora of real world sports cars and supercars made by mainstream automakers.

Speaking of the N 2025 Vision GT, Chris Chapman, Chief Designer at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, CA, said, “The N 2025 Vision GT is our ambitious take on what we think prototype racing could look like in the not-too-distant future. We’re thrilled to see it presented anew in one of the most visually stunning racing simulations ever created.”

He then added, “This concept is a point of pride for Hyundai on so many fronts. It effortlessly combines beauty and function as a racing car, and it boasts a fuel-cell powertrain that is as progressive as the bodywork wrapped around it.”

The car will be joined by other Hyundai racers that are based on the Genesis Coupe platform that include racing and Group B rally cars. Check out the videos and picture galley below and let us know what you think of Hyundai’s virtual product portfolio.


Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia and Facebook have Instagram ‘Live With’ event

Businesses are always looking for new ways to draw the attention of consumers to their brand and products and with the present situation where the virtual world is the dominant ‘hang-out’ for a lot more people than before, ,many online activities are going on, especially on social media.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM), one of the early companies to make use of social media and online sales, today scored another historical first with Instagram ‘
Live With
’, a collaboration between Facebook Malaysia and VPCM.

The inaugural event this afternoon saw Instagram influencers doing virtual walk-throughs of three Volkswagen models, while highlighting key USPs and answering viewers questions live. Those who tuned in to watch also had a chance to win an Apple iPhone 12.

Increased digital presence

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said: “In efforts to adapt to the new normal, Volkswagen has evolved and increased our digital presence. This is evident in our new sales and aftersales offerings. We need to be where our customers are and that is in the palm of their hands. With new formats such as Instagram
LIVE With
, this will allow us to connect and reach a wider audience regardless of location. This pilot collaboration with Facebook will be the first of many to come.”

The offers continue for existing Volkswagen owners as well as those who book their service appointment online today (
December 11, 2020
) will receive exclusive merchandise worth RM170 and enjoy discounts under the 5-Star Service Campaign. This is applicable for service appointments made
between December 15 – 31, 2020
.

Online with VW dealerships this weekend

Tomorrow and Sunday (
December 12 & 13
), authorised Volkswagen dealerships around the country will be holding their own celebrations with an online showroom event from 11 am to 5 pm. This will provide interested customers a chance to get to know more about Volkswagen models as there will be detailed walk-throughs. They can also interact with the Sales Consultants from the comfort and safety of their own home.

The event will be on the respective Facebook pages of each dealership which you can get by clicking on your preferred dealership on
this page
.

Alternatively, you can also visit
www.volkswagen.com.my
 for information on Volkswagen products and services available in Malaysia. For news and articles about Volkswagen,
click here
.


F1 (Round 16): Preview & Starting Grid For 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix

Race starts at 8:10 pm in Bahrain/1:10 am (Monday) in Malaysia

The big news for second last race of the 2020 Formula 1 World Championship is, of course, the replacement of Lewis Hamilton by George Russell. The World Champion was tested positive on Monday after the last race and immediately started his self-isolation, as required by the authorities and in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures applied for events. As the self-isolation will be at least 10 days, this meant that he could not race this weekend at the Sakhir Grand Prix which is also run on the Bahrain Circuit.

22-year old British driver George Russell takes Hamilton’s place so his racing number ‘63’ is now on the Mercedes-AMG racing car. Russell has been with Williams Racing since 2019 and the team was willing to release him to race for Mercedes-AMG. British-Korean Jack Aiken, Williams’ test and reserve driver, will drive in his place.

Lewis Hamilton’s car number changes to ’63’, which is the racing number of his replacement, George Russell. He starts on the front row next to team mate Valtteri Bottas.

Russell is no stranger to Mercedes-Benz though, having been a member of the Mercedes-Benz Junior Programme since 2017, when he won the GP3 Series championship as a rookie, before repeating the feat in Formula 2 in 2018.

“It will not be a straightforward task for George to make the transition from the Williams to the W11, but he is race-ready and has detailed understanding of the 2020 tyres and how they perform on this generation of cars. George has shown impressive form this year with Williams, playing an instrumental role in their climb up the grid, and I am optimistic that he will deliver a strong performance alongside Valtteri, who will be a demanding reference for him,” said Team Principal and CEO Toto Wolff.

In practices during the week, Russell seems to have settled into the W11 and clocked fastest laps. “It’s been good working with the team and I’m learning a lot every single lap I’m in the car. I think my lap times are a bit deceiving at the moment and not the true representation of the pace. There’s still a lot of work to do to get comfortable in the car and with the set-up,” he said.

He is the fifth driver to race for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team since 2010, and the third British driver to represent Mercedes-Benz in F1 after Sir Stirling Moss and Lewis Hamilton.

Brazil’s Pietro Fittipaldi will also make his F1 debut, taking the place of Romain Grosjean who was involved in the horrific accident during the last race. Fittipaldi, the grandson of 2-time Formula 1 world champion Emerson Fittipaldi , is test and reserve driver for the Haas F1 team. The last time there was a Brazilian driver in F1 was Felipe Massa in the 2017 Abu Dhabi GP.

While the race takes place at the same circuit and also at night, the layout is different as the Outer Circuit is being used. This is a shorter track – 3.5 kms instead of 5.4 kms – and 11 corners instead of 15. The drivers will have to circulate for 87 laps compared to last weekend’s 57 laps to get an almost similar total distance of 300+ kms, with each lap being less than a minute.

This is the first time that the layout has ever been used for an international race, and 87 laps is the highest number on the F1 calendar. There is no historical data for the new middle sector which starts from the usual Bahrain Grand Prix layout at the exit of Turn 4.

Track surface is always a big topic with new tracks and while the surface on the new section in Bahrain is similar to the rest of the circuit and made from the same material, it’s not been used anywhere near as much, so is therefore less worn and ‘greener’ as a result. Pirelli is supplying the same tyres as last weekend, with the C2 compound as the white Hard tyres, the C3 as the yellow Medium, and the C4 as the soft tyres.

The different layout will require some set-up changes, though not great. Though there are few braking points, those that exist will be hard on brakes so effective cooling will be important.

24-year old Pietro Fittipaldi, who takes the place of Romain Grosjean in the Haas F1 team, is the grandson of former F1 champion, Emerson Fittipaldi.

“In terms of the race itself, firstly the person putting out the pit board is going to be busy… with 87 laps worth of updates and only 60 seconds (compared to 90 seconds) to place the correct lap number and gaps to the car in front and behind. And on the pit wall, there will be less time for decisions to be made, with a smaller window to consider, decide and action those crucial strategic calls,” said a member of the Mercedes-AMG team.


Malaysian Children Invited To Participate In 16th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is inviting Malaysian children to share their ideas on the future of mobility by dreaming up and drawing their ideal car. The best submissions will be entered for the 16th Toyota Dream Car Art Contest which will be held in 2023 in Japan.

Since 2013, Malaysia has been among the many countries participating in the global drawing competition held by Toyota. While inspiring creativity among the next generation through their art, the competition aims to motivate children from all corners of the globe to visualise the future of mobility.

For the 16
th
 edition of the contest, the theme is ‘Your Dream Car’ and is open to children in three age categories – 7 years old and under; 8 – 11 years old; and 12 – 15 years old. Each country will first run a national contest and for Malaysia, this will be from
October 31, 2022 to February 14, 2023.
 The top three entries in each category will then be entered for the World Contest evaluation to be held in Japan in 2023.

The artworks can be submitted as a hand drawing, scanned photograph or in the form of digital art. More importantly, the artwork should express the child’s dream or design toward the future of mobility while answering the question of whether the mobility depicted enables the child’s dream to come true. The artwork should also be presented from an original viewpoint while also focusing on composition, colouring and technique.

The top three winners from each age category of the national level competition will each receive an Apple iPad Mini, Nintendo Switch and Apple Airpods, respectively, while those placing 4th and 5th in all age categories will receive a RM200 voucher each.

“Since 2013, UMWT has participated in the Dream Car Art Contest and this year, we are thrilled to be able to once again give Malaysian children the opportunity to compete with their peers locally and internationally to showcase their talents through their unique sense of imagination. Our hope is that through the contest, we will be able to spark and encourage creativity among the next generation and inspire a future where we can improve mobility for all,” said President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran K.

“This contest is also an opportunity for both Toyota distributors and Toyota Motor Corporation to strengthen bonds between the Toyota brand and local communities they are present in to bring about positivity and spark creativity among children especially.” he added.

Leng Yi Shun
, o
ne of the Malaysian participants in the 2013 event, was a Bronze Award winner and also received the President Akio Toyoda Award.

For more detailed information on the contest, visit
toyota.com.my/dreamcarartcontest
.


The Airline Seat Specification in the Bentley Bentayga EWB

In the 1960s, Volvo drew attention to the importance of a car seat being designed for a correct posture to provide not just comfort but also promote driving safety. Its seat designers consulted specialists on a subjected that would come to be known as ‘ergonomics’ and developed a revolutionary seat that would set new standards in the industry.

The carmaker’s pioneering work encouraged other companies to also give more attention to car seats and not treat them as just a place for the occupants to sit on. In the years to follow, many more new ideas (some by Volvo) would be introduced in seat design which would increase comfort as well as safety.

New benchmark in wellbeing

In 2022, the new Airline Seat Specification of the Bentley Bentayga EWB represents ‘the most advanced seat ever fitted to a car’. It demonstrates a new benchmark in wellbeing features, providing the most comfortable experience possible for those travelling on extraordinary journeys. 50% of the customers who are buying the longer version of the Bentayga have specified this seat to go with their purchase.

Along with the systems to deliver Auto Climate and Postural Adjustment, the Airline Seat has a suite of technology beneath its handcrafted leather surfaces. An array of no less than 12 electric motors operate silently to deliver 22 ways of adjustment in the seat alone. This allows the user to shape the seat to suit their body shape and also to work or rest. The motors are joined by three intelligent pneumatic valve electronic control units, and the combination of motors and valves is overseen by a master Seat Motion & Wellbeing ECU.

Studies have shown that actively supporting body weight in a dynamic way relieves strain, which can prime mental stress and create lack of focus. Natural supported postures have been shown to alleviate stress from tensed muscles. The postural adjustment system automatically makes micro adjustments to the passenger’s seating position and pressure points, using an algorithm developed in collaboration with a chiropractor.

The system can apply 177 individual pressure changes across 6 fully independent pressure zones over a 3-hour period, improving comfort and minimizing fatigue throughout a journey. By subtly changing the shape of the surfaces of the seat over time, no single area of the body endures pressure fatigue for an extended period – meaning the occupant is always comfortable.

Postural Adjustment System

While many fatigue recovery system exist (seat massage, for example), the Postural Adjustment system is the next step further providing a proactive anti-fatigue system. By subtly adjusting the contact pressure between body and seat through soft pneumatic activation zones, the system goes beyond the 2D motions typical of adjustable seats, and employs a 3-dimensional twist to relieve pressure points. These motions are controlled by complex algorithms that have been developed in collaboration with a chiropractor who deals with clients who experience discomfort on long car journeys.

Working with specialists Comfort Motion Global (CMG), Bentley has developed a scientific, pneumatic postural adjustment system. CMG has been working in the field of fatigue prevention for several years, conducting medical-based research trials that highlight the benefits of changes in posture for comfort and wellbeing.

By creating subtle changes in the seat surface contact zones, body tissues that have been under pressure are relieved, and other areas, pressure is then applied. This allows the body a chance to locally recover naturally. The postural motion creates small changes in back and limb angles and can increase blood flow. Particularly in the lower back and lower limbs reducing discomfort, therefore passengers remain more alert and focused for a much longer period.

Seat surface sensing system

Many premium and luxury models have ventilated seats nowadays, with fans within that blow hot or cool air onto the body. The Airline Seat offers even more with the world’s first seat surface sensing system for thermal comfort. It uses a suite of sensors that constantly measure both passenger contact surface temperature and humidity level, to an incredible accuracy of 0.1°C
every 25 milliseconds
.

The passenger defines an optimal surface temperature target from 7 settings. Sensors measure and produce live data to determine what seat heating, cooling and ventilation levels are required to achieve the best comfort temperature for the passenger. The system then maintains the optimal thermal comfort throughout the journey with micro adjustments to the seat thermal system to maintain the setpoint.

In trials, it was observed that a human can only notice a change in surface temperature between 1° -2°C, but the system is constantly monitoring actual temperature to a much more detailed level, so it knows what the passenger is going to need
before
 they would know themselves. This live data allows the system to activate before the passenger even knows it is required, providing an intelligent and autonomous experience where manual control is no longer needed to maintain comfort.

Auto Climate System

The auto climate system, which has 7 set points) uses existing seat heating technologies, but a new seat ventilation fan has been developed that can move approximately 80% more air than the previous system. Less power is consumed than the current seat climate system and, in Auto Climate mode, the overall power consumption of the complete system is around 40% less than being manually activated by the passenger.

The EWB Airline Seats have optimized seat contact profiles as well as a complex seat interlayer construction, tuned to work in perfect harmony with the chassis of the car. Working together the ride comfort is smooth and passengers are isolated from road vibration.

The adjustable profiles can morph to suit different customer shape and build. The adjustable leg and footrest feature allows customers to achieve a seated posture that is individually comfortable to them for longer periods.

The Airline Seat Specification also adds further cushion and backrest bolster adjustment, cushion extension, electric headrest height adjustment and a deployable footrest to the back of the front passenger seat. The rear seat passenger on this side of the car can also move the front passenger seat forwards via a ‘VIP mode’.


REVIEW: Mio MiVue 792 dashcam – “The Premium”

It was back in September 2019 when Mio, one of the world’s leading brands in dashboard cameras, decided to give their premium range a try here in Malaysia. Introducing their line-up of high-quality dashcams, the Mio MiVue series consists of entry-level products all the way up to their more premium models, the
Mio MiVue 7 Series.

The Mio MiVue 7 Series consists of three different models priced at different price points to cater to different budgets but what we were most interested in was their top-of-the-line Mio MiVue 792 dashcam. Priced at RM799, we wanted to find out if it’s really worth paying this premium price tag for a dashboard camera.

We got our hands on a unit of the 792 and quickly went to get it installed professionally. At one of their dealers in Ampang, the process was quick and done professionally. Before we knew it, we were back on the road and ready to see what the MiVue 792 is all about.

First things first, the design. The Mio MiVue 792 essentially looks similar to any other aftermarket dashboard cameras that are readily available here in the country. Using an additional 12V cigarette lighter socket as its main power source (we had to install a new socket just for the dashcam since the only one we have in the car is occupied with other tasks) and placed right behind the rear-view mirror, it’s more of a ‘install and forget’ kind of situation. This is good considering that it won’t be a distraction during your drives.

So, what do you get with this RM799 dashcam? Its biggest advantage has to be its adoption of Sony’s premium STARVIS™ Sensor that promises to deliver high-quality video footages, even at night. By delivering enhanced brightness (up to four times the amount of light), we noticed that even fine details can be captured in good quality during our night drives. That’s quite an advantage to have considering that you’re more likely to get into an accident at night.

We also liked the fact that the MiVue 792 is able to shoot at 1080p/30fps (can also record at 1080p/60fps) with a large F1.8 aperture which allows greater video recording capabilities no matter the driving condition. On normal days when the sun is out, the picture quality is simply superb and no doubt one of the best we’ve seen.

Here’s what it looks like on those rainy days (which we are having quite a lot these past few months). In terms of picture quality and video recording assets, the Mio MiVue 792 has what it takes to deliver high-quality footages to its owners. It gets a bit grainy at night but provides more than enough details to capture what’s happening upfront. But, is it still worth RM799 for a dashcam?

Here’s where the 792 gets a bit more exciting. This unit comes ready with built-in WIFI that can be connected to your smartphones (using the dedicated MiVue app). Once paired and synced, the dashcam is able to send event videos straight to your phone in case of emergencies.

This is triggered with internal G-sensors and you can basically have a copy of that video directly on your phone. Paired with its ability to automatically record any emergency (collisions, hard braking or swift manoeuvres), you can always rely on having a copy of the video in your phone, ready for the next step (provided that you’re connected to the dashcam via WIFI).

Other impressive features include:

Built-in ADAS (Advanced driver-assistance system)

Built-in GPS (for auto-calibration of time and location)

Support dual-lens synchronized recording (when connected with Mio MiVue A30 rear cam)

Parking Mode recording up to 36 hours (when connected to the MiVue Smartbox external power source)

We were quite impressed with the number of capabilities the MiVue 792 has (especially the built-in ADAS) from Lane Departure Warning System, Driver Fatigue Alert, Eco-Drive Indicator, Tyre Pressure Warning System, and more. However, the set of tyre pressure sensor caps with WIFI connectivity that you need to sync with the dashcam is currently not available here in Malaysia…for now.

All in all, we were quite impressed at how capable the Mio MiVue 792 dashcam handles multiple capabilities. We also understand why it is priced as such thanks to its many functions and premium build quality.

For those who are interested in getting a dashcam, the Mio MiVue 7 series can be seriously considered (especially with its three-year warranty) compared to other budget dashcams that will break after a few months of use. For more information, head over to
www.mio.com/my/
.

Mio MiVue 7 Series dash cams launched – From RM499


Volvo tests wireless charging for EVs in Sweden (w/VIDEO)

Electric vehicles and the technologies associated with them are still developing and evolving. And just like the early years of the auto industry over 100 years ago, there’s fragmentation as different approaches are taken and different technologies are explored. That’s part of the reason why EV technologies are still costly – because they cannot reach a point where they are stable and economies of scale can start to kick in to lower costs.

Even with recharging the battery packs, there are different systems and connectors. In China, swapping entire battery packs in one approach. While the ideal is to enable owners to recharge their vehicles at home, it is not entirely practical and outdoor charging stations are needed. The common approach has been to provide a station and a cable connects to the charging point on the vehicle.

So far, we haven’t heard of cables being stolen but there is a possibility of that happening in future as more EVs are in use, and cables (which are not cheap) become valuable items. In most cases, the cable system will likely be the common method for charging but some companies are also looking at wireless charging which will not require cables. The technology is already available for smartphones so applying it to EVs is also possible.

https://www.piston.my/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Volvo-Wireless-Charging.mp4

BMW was the first car market to offer wireless charging and ran a pilot program in America three years ago. Its system used a wireless charging from a pad on the ground and planned to introduce it more widely. However, it may have been the pandemic that has delayed the plans as nothing else has been heard about it.

In the meantime, Volvo Cars has begun testing wireless charging technology and has a 3-year program with a taxi company. The company will have a small fleet of fully electric
Volvo XC40 Recharge
 cars which will be run in Volvo’s home city of Gothenburg in Sweden. They will be charged wirelessly at special stations around the city of about 600,000 people.

In total, the cars will be used for more than 12 hours a day and each will cover 100,000 kms per year, which also makes this the first durability test of fully electric Volvo cars in a commercial usage scenario.

The charging starts automatically when a compatible vehicle parks over a charging pad embedded in the street. The drivers can remain in their car while charging takes place. Electric energy is sent through the charging pad, which is picked up by a receiver unit under in the car. To easily align the car with the charging pad, there is a 360-degree camera system.

For the fully electric XC40 Recharge, the wireless charging power will be more than 40 kW, making the charging speeds around 4 times faster than a wired 11 kW AC charger, and almost as fast as a wired 50 kW DC fast-charger.

The wireless charging test is one of many projects outlined within the strategic initiative Gothenburg Green City Zone, under which designated areas within the city are used as live testbeds for the development of sustainable technologies.

“Gothenburg Green City Zone lets us try exciting new technologies in a real environment and evaluate them over time for a potential future broader introduction,” said Mats Moberg, Head of Research & Development at Volvo Cars. “Testing new charging technologies together with selected partners is a good way to evaluate alternative charging options for our future cars.”


Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance testing Mission R’s advanced EV technology

At the 2021 IAA Mobility event in Germany last year, Porsche displayed a conceptual study that was the vision of a fully-electric GT racing car. Called the
Mission R
, it was intended to show a possible model for customer motorsport in the future.

The sportscar maker has now begun testing the technology components of the Mission R with the 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance as a test vehicle. Like the Mission R, the all-wheel drive racer uses the chassis of the
718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport
 with the entire electric motor and battery technology from the IAA conceptual study.

Mission R

The powertrain has a maximum output of 735 kW (1,000 ps) and can generate still more. In simulated racing, a steady 450 kW (612 ps) is available for 30 minutes – equivalent to the duration of a Carrera Cup race. In terms of lap times and top speed, the 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance is on par with the performance of the current 992-generation 911 GT3 Cup.

“With the Mission R, we’ve shown how Porsche envisages sustainable customer motor racing in the future. The 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance now demonstrates that this vision works impressively on the racetrack,” revealed Matthias Scholz, GT racing vehicle project manager. “We’re very excited about the response because a one-make cup with electric racing cars would be an important addition to our existing customer racing programme.”

By 2030, Porsche aims to be CO
2
 neutral across the entire value chain and lifecycle of its new cars sold. By then, the proportion of all new vehicles featuring all-electric drive should be more than 80%. This development is there important in the light of moving towards greater electrification.

The fully-electric drivetrain has electric motors on front and rear axles for all-wheel drive. The direct oil cooling of the e-motors and battery pack developed by Porsche counteracts thermally induced derating.

“The integration of oil cooling has significantly impacted the vehicle concept,” explained Bjorn Forster, GT4 ePerformance project manager. “With experts in the fields of aerodynamics and thermodynamics as well as high-voltage and bodywork specialists, the development team created an architecture to tap the full potential of the battery cells for the first time, since there is no thermal derating. In this way, the power output in racing mode remains constant for half an hour.”

Mission R drivetrain has e-motors on front and rear axles for all-wheel drive.

Thanks to 900-volt technology, the state of charge of the battery at full charging capacity jumps from 5% to 80% in about 15 minutes. This is important in future races which may have long durations.

Under the direction of designer Grant Larson, a team from Porsche Style came up with the shape of the 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance. The racing car is 14 cm wider than a 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport. About 6,000 parts were designed from scratch and the body is made of natural fibre composite materials. The production is intended to generate fewer emissions than the production of comparable synthetic materials. Recycled carbonfibres are also used for testing purposes.

Compared to the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, the flared fenders allow more room for the wider 18-inch racing tyres from Michelin. Renewable materials make up a particularly high proportion of the tyres.

The GT4 ePerformance Tour

The 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance will make a dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed next month. At the famous motorsport festival in southern England, the concept racing car will take part in the traditional 1.9-km hillclimb event.

Its second outing will be in August at the Porsche factory in Leipzig on the occasion of the factory’s 20th anniversary. The facility boasts a 3.7-km circuit with sections reproducing world-famous racetracks.

The two 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance demo vehicles will travel through various European countries before heading to North America in early 2023. The world tour concludes in the Asia-Pacific region where it will tour until mid-2024. It’s almost a certainty we will see it at the Sepang International Circuit which is frequently used by Porsche for events.

“The 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance blazes a trail to Porsche customer racing with electrically-powered racing cars. As a first step, we will unveil this concept to our global partners,” says Oliver Schwab, Project Manager Sales of the 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance. “With drivers, teams, organisers, authorities and other interested parties, we’re also gathering ideas for Porsche racing formats in the future.”

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