Save money while switching to a more active and adventurous lifestyle with the Ford Ranger XLT

ADVERTORIAL

There’s a lot of diversity in the motor vehicle market with different types of vehicles for different needs and budgets. ‘One size fits all’ or more correctly, ‘one type fits all needs’ seems impossible. A passenger car offer comfort and enjoyable driving but you won’t think of taking it off the highway. A pick-up truck is robust and can take almost any sort of terrain but the perception is that such vehicles are uncomfortable.

But there is one model which can offer the best of both worlds and that’s the Ford Ranger. Designed and engineered from the outset to be a true dual-purpose vehicle, it has a passenger car-like cabin with all the same conveniences (and more), generous load-carrying capacity, a 4×4 system that can tackle even the toughest terrain and of course, it’s Built Ford Tough.

The line-up of Rangers in Malaysia is wide with the XLT versions of offering the best value for money. In fact, the Ranger XLT was considered so superior to other pick-up trucks in the Malaysian market that its XLT Plus version won the Cars of Malaysia Award for the Twin Cab Pick-Up Truck of the Year in January this year. It has also won other awards including the International Pick-up of the Year in Europe.

Save up to RM9,000

From March 1 until May 31 2020, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion is offering special deals on three Ford Ranger models – the Ranger XLT with savings of RM9,000; Ranger XLT Plus with savings of RM7,188; and XLT Special Edition with savings of RM8,000.

Ford has many decades of experience building pick-up trucks and its F-Series model has been one of the biggest-selling vehicles in the world for years. Drawing on those decades of experiences, it developed the Ranger in 1995 and has constantly improved the model with each generation. In the 21
st
 century, it’s all about connectivity and smart technologies and the Ranger is right up to date with these features.

Two powertrain choices

The capability of the Ranger XLT has also increased with the latest turbodiesel engine in its XLT Plus variant with displacements of 2 litres, with outputs of 180ps/420Nm, delivering higher performance levels without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

In addition to these technologically advanced engines is Ford’s class-leading 10-speed automatic transmission, with performance and durability proven in applications as diverse as the F-150 pick-up and the latest Mustang. With 10 speeds and High and Low ranges, the Ranger has more flexibility on the move and also enhanced fuel economy.

Besides the robust 4×4 system that can be switched from 2WD to 4WD without stopping the vehicle (Shift-on-the-Fly), the Ranger XLT also has the capability of crossing waterways or floods that are up to 800 mm deep. Combined with 237 mm of ground clearance, there are probably very few places that the Ranger XLT can’t get across.

The spacious cargo area at the back and the 1,000-kg payload that can be carried means you can transport a lot of durians or a few mountain bikes. And lifting up the tailgate no longer requires a lot of strength with the Easy-Lift feature that makes the operation as easy as raising the bootlid of a car.

Easy transition from a passenger car

If you’ve never owned a pick-up truck before, the Ranger XLT and XLT Plus are ideal to make the transition from a passenger car. Step inside and you will feel like you’re in a passenger car with the comfortable and spacious interior. It has all the convenience features you enjoyed in your passenger car plus additional features to support an active lifestyle (which you will develop if you do not already have one!).

Ford’s SYNC infotainment is like an ‘invisible co-driver’, assisting in activating certain features by responding to simple voice commands, or via an 8-inch touchscreen. Mobile devices can be interfaced with the system which has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can get Waze from your smartphone on the big screen for easier viewing. Or select your favourite music from Spotify.

No discrimination in safety

While many manufacturers saw pick-up trucks as being for commercial applications and provided minimal safety features, Ford has never looked at such vehicles that way. It has given the Ranger comparable (or even higher) levels of occupant protection as its passenger cars. This means not only airbags and active safety systems like ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) but also driver assistance systems like Hill Descent Control and Hill Launch Assist as well as a Rear View Camera. Rollover Mitigation and Adaptive Load Control also help maintain stability for the tall vehicle.

So are you ready to make 2020 the year when your lifestyle changes to a more active and adventurous one by switching to the Ford Ranger XLT? It’s ready for the demands of the modern world – tough and capable enough for the rough stuff on weekends and also stylish enough to travel to work the rest of the week.

Visit [
https://www.sdacford.com.my/whats-new/promotions/xlt-family-promo
] for more information on the Ford Ranger XLT or head to an authorised Ford showroom for you to try one.


Porsche 911 GT2 RS is a 700bhp track focused monster

Porsche has finally unveiled its 911 GT2 RS, a track-focused, rear-wheel drive sports car that features a race-bred chassis and rear axle steering. It’s a lightweight car, which is evident by the extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the exterior mirrors, air intakes on the rear quarter panels, front luggage compartment lid, certain other parts of the rear and many of the interior components.

Porsche has also fitted a titanium exhaust system that weighs 7kg less than that in the 911 Turbo and is said to deliver a distinct yet pleasing exhaust note. The roof panel is made from magnesium, which should help lower the overall centre of gravity.

And if that isn’t enough, more weight can be shed by opting for the optional Weissach package. This gets you magnesium wheels, other trim panels made from carbon fiber, which include the roof, anti-roll bars and end links on both axles.

What really separates the GT2 from other 911 cars are the large air intakes and outlets on the bumpers as well as a unique rear wing that improve the car’s overall aerodynamic efficiency and increase downforce. Porsche says that the car has exceptional grip due to the race-bred chassis, rear axle steering capabilities and the ultra high performance tyres.

This GT2 RS has the same 3.8-litre engine as that found in the 911 Turbo S but power has been increased further by the use of larger turbocharger and a new additional cooling system for the intercoolers.

As such, the twin-turbo flat six engine produces 700bhp and 750Nm of torque which is about 80bhp and 50Nm more than its predecessor. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a customised GT 7-speed dual clutch (PDK) gearbox that offers maximum efficiency and uninterrupted torque transfer. It can go from 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds and reach a speed of 340km/h.

Despite being a track ready car, the GT2 RS does come with the usual electronic driver safety aids that include stability control and traction control. They make up the Porsche stability management system or PSM, which can be switched off in two states using ESC off  and then ESC + TC off.

Inside, the car has a red Alcantara black leather upholstery and several carbon fiber trim pieces throughout the cabin. There’s a GT2 RS Sports steering wheel that is fitted as standard  and so are the full bucket seats with carbon fiber reinforced backrests and Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which functions as the central control unit for audio, navigation, and communication. Porsche Connect Plus and the Porsche Track Precision app are also included as standard.

Porsche has also released a chronograph watch to mark the launch of this very special car, which will only be available exclusively to 911 GT2 RS owners. It is the first clock movement that Porsche Design can call their own and is housed within an elegantly made lightweight titanium body. The movement is a caliber 01.200 one that includes a flyback function, a load-path-optimized movement bridge, and an official COSC certificate of authenticity.

The Porsche 911 GT2 RS is available to order now but customers should receive their cars towards the end of this year or in early 2018.


PETRONAS Primax 97 formulation upgraded for more efficient and responsive engine performance

Five years ago, Petronas was the first petroleum company in Malaysia to upgrade its RON97 Primax petrol to the higher Euro4M standard (the ‘M’ referring to a specification adapted for the Malaysian market). Thereafter, other companies have followed and today, all brands are at the same standard.

Now, the company has improved the formulation of Primax 97 and it becomes Primax 97 with Pro-Race. The new formulation is said to help engines run cleaner with reduced friction as well, meaning they can run more efficiently.

Removing 99.9% of deposits

With the claim of 99.9% of deposits removed from key areas, fuel delivery can be better as there will be less blockages in the injectors and other parts of the fuel delivery system. The spray of fuel can therefore be optimized to maximise combustion.

Smoother and more responsive performance as well as increased efficiency are claimed for the new Primax 97 petrol.

At the same time, combustion can also be smoother because deposits can create ‘hotspots’ inside the combustion chambers. These cause mini explosions which cause roughness so if they are removed, then the engine will have less of those explosions inside.

Of course, it takes a while for the benefits of the new formulation to be experienced, especially if the engine has a lot of deposits already. They need to be gradually ‘washed’ away, a process that used to require disassembly of the engine after some years. However, once they are removed and if Primax 97 is used regularly, it can also prevent deposit formation again.

Removal of deposits in the combustion chambers (left) and the Advanced Dual Friction Modifier (right) help to make the engine run more efficiently and smoothly.

Advanced Dual Friction Modifier

The new formulation also has the world’s first Advanced Dual Friction Modifier which cuts down the friction levels between surfaces. This makes response better and as the engine can save energy that was used to overcome the friction, leading to improved fuel economy. Petronas claims that this new dual friction modifier can reduce friction by up to 25%.

There is also a unique fuel and oil interaction formulation to enhance efficiency as fuel and oil tend to have issued when coming in contact with each other. By eliminating this, carbon emissions are also lowered, which is better for the atmosphere.

Petronas fuels and lubricants have technology that was developed from its involvement in Formula 1 racing with the Mercedes-AMG team.

Technology from F1 involvement

The development of the new petrol was carried out with learnings from Petronas’ involvement in Formula 1, via the world championship-winning Mercedes-AMG team. For many years, fuel development has benefitted from extreme testing in racing conditions with the motorist being the ultimate beneficiary.

The new Primax 97 is available at all Petronas stations nationwide and cost the same as other RON97 petrol which currently is set at
RM2.08 a litre until December 25, 2020
.

PETRONAS Setel smartphone fuel payment application available nationwide


BMW X7 gets mid-cycle updates with improved 3-litre engine and new transmission

BMW’s largest SUV, the X7 (G07), has received an update after 4 years in the market (3 years in Malaysia) and it comes with a new frontal appearance that we should be seeing on the next generation of the 7-Series which will make its debut very soon.

The main feature of the new look is the split headlight design that is a key element in BMW’s new design language. This is the first time that split headlight units have been employed for DRLs (which also function as turn indicators) as well  as main beams. The low-beam/high-beam headlights are separate LED units below the DRLs. The headlights have adaptive matrix capability to customise the spread of light for maximum illumination without dazzling oncoming drivers.

Current BMW X7.

The updated front-end also has an ‘Iconic Glow’ kidney grille with understated cascade lighting for the two grille elements. The illumination is activated when one of the doors is opened and while on the move (but it be switched off if not desired). At the rear, the L-shaped light strips are said to generate significantly greater intensity so they can double up as brake lights and the light units can therefore be kept extremely slim.

Within the huge bodyshell of the X7, the three rows of seats have new seat surfacing and bolder  colour combinations. For most variants, there is a sport leather steering wheel with shifter paddles, 4-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, panoramic glass sunroof, Harman/Kardon audio, heated comfort seats for the driver and front passenger and Comfort Access.

As with some other models in this class, the dashboard is dominated by displays. In the case of the X7, the BMW Curved Display is made up of a 12.3-inch information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with a 14.9-inch screen. The two screens, which extend to two-thirds of the width. merge into one high-resolution display unit behind a single glass surface. While the panel orientation is curved towards the driver, the front passenger can also view the screen and operate the iDrive 8 system.

The dashboard surface is now made from Sensafin, a high-quality, vegan surface material with leather-like properties has exclusive three-dimensional quilting and surface perforation.

The instrument panel has an extremely slim form, its horizontal structure emphasising the width of the interior. A new ambient light bar makes its debut below the interior trim strip in the front passenger area. It has a crystalline surface structure and effective backlighting with the use of LED units. The light distribution, brightness and colour for the interior illumination can be configured with a choice of 15 colours.

With all seats in use, there’s 326 litres of cargo volume and depending on whether the second and third row are folded down, the capacity can be expanded to a maximum 2,120 litres. To simplify loading, the standard air suspension can be lowered at the touch of a button. The tailgate is split, with both sections opening and closing automatically. The advantage of this 2-section tailgate is that you don’t need to always raise a large door just to put in smaller items.

The Sky Lounge sunroof is made up of 3 glass section spanning the length of the roof. All the roof elements have an electrically sliding headliner and its 15,000 graphic patterns can generate a display reminiscent of a starlit sky. This is a
Starlight Headliner
 which first appeared in Rolls-Royce models many years ago.

The X7 continues to use a range of engines from the new modular generation of the BMW Group Efficient Dynamics family. However, it remains as a hybrid rather than plug-in hybrid powertrain. The range is headed by a new 4.4-litre petrol V8 for the X7 M60i xDrive. Joining it are newly-developed 3-litre, 6-cylinder in-line units in the petrol X7 xDrive40i and diesel X7 xDrive40d. The
current X7 assembled in Malaysia
 is the xDrive40i variant and it is likely that this will remain the case with the updated version.

The new 3-litre petrol engine of the xDrive40i has been improve in many areas and maximum output has been increased by 47 bhp to 380 bhp, while peak torque rises by 70 Nm to 520 Nm and can be boosted to as much 540 Nm by the 48V mild hybrid system.

The 8-speed Steptronic transmission is a new unit, used for the first time in the X7. Gear transitions are quicker and there’s a Launch Control function as well as a new Sprint function when a quick burst of speed is required. With the Sprint function, the transmission automatically shifts into the lowest usable gear and the powertrain and chassis systems switch to their sportiest settings. For maximum performance, the hybrid system’s electric boost is also activated.

Power goes to all 4 wheels via the efficient and intelligent xDrive system with rear-wheel-drive bias. It uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case interlinked with the powertrain and chassis systems to distribute power between the front and rear wheels as required.

The X7 now comes with adaptive two-axle air suspension with electronically controlled dampers as standard. The dampers respond adaptively both to road surface conditions as well as driving style. The various Driving Experience Control modes also give a more sporty or a more comfortable basic damper setting.

Thanks to the link-up with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, the vehicle load registered by the air suspension sensors can be factored into braking modulation. When the X7 exceeds 140 km/h, or the Driving Experience Control mode is set to Sport, the body is automatically lowered, increasing stability and reducing aerodynamic drag. Ride height can be lowered in 2 stages and by up to 20 mm.

New variants for locally-assembled BMW X3 and X4


Rolls-Royce to present second Coachbuilt Boat Tail at Concorso d’Eleganza, Villa d’Este 2022 this weekend

The Bespoke department of Rolls-Royce already offers the ultimate in personalisation of the brand’s limousines and Cullinan SUV. Virtually every customer today uses the services of the Bespoke team in some way to add or create something special for their Rolls-Royce. But there is yet another level beyond Bespoke and that is
Coachbuild
. The department, re-established in 2021, brings back a lost art and science of making cars which goes back to the earliest years of the motorcar, before mass production began in factories.

“Our Coachbuild department is for those patrons who wish to go beyond the existing restraints, and explore the almost limitless possibilities this opens up for them. We are able to offer our customers the opportunity to create a motor car in which every single element is hand-built to their precise individual requirements, as befits our status as a true luxury house,” said Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

The Sweptail, presented in 2017 as a demonstration of the coachbuilding expertise of Rolls-Royce attracted the attention of a number of customers. Within this group, it emerged that three potential customers shared a deep appreciation of contemporary nautical design. In consultation with the customers concerned, an agreement was reached whereby three cars –  to be known as Boat Tail – would share a common body, but each would then be individually, highly personalised, reflecting the confluence between vision, capability and ambition of the marque and each of the individual commissioning patrons.

The second (of only three) Boat Tail comes one year after the first one which was unveiled in May last year (below).

The
first Rolls-Royce Boat Tail
 was completed a year ago and the commissioning customers, who are a globally successful couple, were willing to let the world see their ultra-exclusive car. Their fascination of the Boat Tail form was furthered by a car in their private collection – a 1932 Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, lovingly restored by them, in time for their modern Boat Tail’s completion.

Now comes the next chapter of its Boat Tail coachbuilt commission and as will be the case with all  three cars, each will have a story entirely unique and personal to its owner, reflecting their own history, tastes and sensibilities. With this in mind, the latest Boat Tail, to be revealed at Concorso d’Eleganza, Villa d’Este 2022 on the shores of Lake Como in northern Italy, is a masterwork of restraint, sophistication, elegance and attention to detail.

It was commissioned by a customer whose family business has grown from his father’s origins in the pearling industry. Widely travelled, internationally educated and cosmopolitan in his tastes and influences, the customer is an established patron of the arts, who additionally owns a sizeable collection of classic and modern cars, housed in a dedicated private museum.

A level of sophistication, garnered from the client’s extensive knowledge of luxury, is clearly. The overall design aesthetic is restrained; a study in carefully considered materials and precise details that together create a highly personal and emotionally resonant homage to the customer’s father.

At the onset of the commissioning process, the customer presented Rolls-Royce Coachbuild designers with a selection of 4 pearl shells, personally chosen from his private collection for their unique colour and complexity. The shells provided inspiration for the exterior colour, which is one of the most complex Bespoke finishes ever created by Rolls-Royce.

The foundation of the colour is a shimmering blend of oyster and soft rose, with large white and bronze mica flakes adding a unique pearlescent quality that changes subtly under different light conditions. The contrasting cognac-coloured bonnet, created specifically for this Boat Tail, contains fine bronze and gold coloured aluminium mica flakes complete with a layer of crystal and iced matt clear coat, adding significant warmth and depth to the car’s appearance. The technical fibre lower sills of Boat Tail incorporate a rose gold woven thread.

The rear deck, which houses Boat Tail’s unique ‘butterfly-design’ hosting suite, is swathed in Royal Walnut veneer, inlaid with rose gold-plated pinstripes with a satin-brushed finish to ensure a sensitive and sophisticated appearance. The Royal Walnut was specifically selected by the customer  for its beautiful properties as it matures over time, a material that will gradually transition to the tonal properties of the cognac colour. From above, one observes a harmonious balance and satin effect of the iced bonnet and tactile wooden rear deck, in contrast with the high-gloss front and side perspectives.

The interior is a beautifully curated combination of perfectly matched cognac and oyster-coloured leathers and Royal Walnut veneer, with rose gold and mother-of-pearl accents throughout. The leathers, complete with a pearlescent finish, accentuate the surfaces and forms of Boat Tail’s seats and interior design. The transmission tunnel is formed from Royal Walnut veneer with rose gold pinstripes, drawing a direct visual reference to the rear deck and adding a glowing warmth to Boat Tail’s interior.

The centrepiece of the dashboard is a timepiece made from mother-of-pearl, chosen and supplied by the client from his own collection. The fascia is pure and minimal in its appearance so as not to detract from the precious material. The same prised substance graces the control switches and instrument dials, creating a strong visual and material connection between the car, the owner, and his family heritage.

The Boat Tail is entirely hand-built, with the body panels fashioned from vast, single sheets of aluminium to create the distinctive outline inspired by the racing yachts of the early 20th century. From the front, the Pantheon Grille, milled from a single, solid billet of aluminium, is graced with a Spirit of Ecstasy fashioned in rose gold.

With the Architecture of Luxury – which includes a proprietary all-aluminium spaceframe chassis – the marque has ushered in a new coachbuilding movement that encompasses both highly sophisticated 21st Century technology and materials, and a tradition extending back more than 100 years.

Rolls-Royce re-establishes its Coachbuild department to go beyond Bespoke


Ford builds robot bottom to test car seats

As bizarre as this might sound, Ford has created a robot has that looks and operates like a human bottom – and there is good reason for it. This contraption is being used to simulate how drivers and passengers get in and out of their car seats.

This data allows engineers to carefully map the pressure points on a seat, enabling them to test the wear and tear of materials. Called ‘Robutt’, the machine simulates human movement when getting in and out of a car, which will help the manufacturer increase the lifespan of its materials.

“From the first moment we get into a car, the seat creates an impression of comfort and quality,” said Svenja Froehlich, a durability engineer, at Ford’s European HQ, in Cologne, Germany.

“Previously, we used pneumatic cylinders that simply moved up and down. With the ‘Robutt’, we are now able to replicate very accurately how people really behave,” he later added.

Robutt was built to resemble an average-sized large man and its job on car seats, is to simulate ten years of use in just three weeks – sitting down and getting up 25,000 times. The tests were carried out in a new Ford Fiesta but the Blue Oval will be rolling the test for all of its vehicles for the Europe market.


BMW’s new i3 is a fully electric 3-Series sedan only for China

Since the 1990s, China has been the market every carmaker wants to be in. When the country’s economy opened up in the 1980s, the auto industry saw huge investments in preparation for demand for new cars that would explode and make the country the world’s largest market. Because of its gigantic volume, carmakers are even prepared to develop models exclusively for the market because the potential volume justifies the R&D cost.

For BMW, China has become a very important market and in 2021, 846,237 BMW and MINI vehicles were sold there and that was 40% of its global sales for the year. Over the years, the German carmakers has developed long-wheelbase versions of various model series because buyers there want longer cars.

Now, it’s also developed a 3-Series that is fully electric, the first of its type in the world and for now, it is meant only for China. To go on sale in May this year, it has the same shape as a long wheelbase 3-Series sedan (110 mm longer than a standard body) and is badged as a ‘BMW i3 eDrive35L’.

The original i3

That will, of course, makes people a bit puzzled because the i3 that we have known all along was an independent model line and the first volume-produced battery electric vehicle by BMW, and it also introduced the BMW i sub-brand. Entering the market in 2013, it was a B-segment hatchback and had an advanced structure along with new technologies.

The original i3, BMW’s first zero-emissions vehicle, which entered the market in 2013.

At the end of 2019, BMW said the i3 would end production within 5 years and there was no plan for a follow-up generation. This was probably because the new iX range of BEVs was moving into a more prominent position and could be used for a broad spread of segments.

BMW doesn’t explain why it has chosen to offer such a model other than that ’it is perfect fit for the particular requirements of Chinese customers’. It could well be that market studies indicated that there is a segment of customers who still want something looking conventional and also with the generous legroom afforded by a long wheelbase.

Specially adapted for China

From what is known, the model was ready for production at the end of last year and was submitted for homologation. Fine tuning of the suspension systems to Chinese road conditions was carried out by the joint-venture BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. R&D division, which also adapted some of the car’s componentry to the requirements of the supply chain in China. It will be made at the joint-venture factory in Shenyang.

Gen5 eDrive

The ‘eDrive35L’ in the badge indicated that it will have the latest
BMW Gen5 eDrive powertrain
 already used in the
iX3
,
i4
 and
iX
. The battery pack has a gross capacity of 70.3 kWh and with DC fast-charging, going from 10% to 80% is claimed to take 35 minutes. A full battery pack is expected to provide a range of up to 526 kms. If there is an urgency, a 10-miunte fast-charge can give up to 97 kms of range.

The eDrive powertrain has a rear-mounted electric motor with a maximum output of  210 kW (285 ps) and 400 Nm of torque. Claimed 0-100 km/h time is 6.2 seconds and, of course, the driving dynamics that all BMWs are known and appreciated for will also be available.

The core of BMW’s 5th generation eDrive technology.

Also included on-board will be BMW OS8 operating system and a wide range of digital features and services, like high-end connectivity and the
Digital Key
.

With the i3 eDrive35L, the BMW Group portfolio of fully electric cars now comprises 6 models. The BMW Group is aiming for fully electric vehicles to account for 50% of its global sales by 2030 as it aims for carbon neutrality.

The BMW EV range in 2022 (together with a couple of models not yet launched).

China now, the world later?

While the new i3 is intended for sale only in China, this may be an initial plan. It is likely that eventually, distributors in other markets will ask for it because customers will also want it as it still has that ‘classic’ look instead of the future-oriented designs of the new iX models.

Malaysians understand merits of EVs but misconceptions remain, BMW survey finds


Sam Ke Ting Wins Appeal, Leaves Court A Free Woman

6 years ago, in February 2017, a young’s woman’s nightmare in Johor Bahru began when she was involved in an accident.  22 years old then, Sam Ke Ting was driving home in the early hours of the morning when she unexpectedly encountered a group of cyclists riding along a hilly and winding road that was also said to have poor lighting. Her car crashed into the 8 teenage cyclists who died as a result of severe injuries.

Following the accident, which she pleaded not guilty to, there was a court case where she was acquitted. The prosecution appealed against the judgement and on this second occasion, she was again acquitted. The Johor Bahru Magistrate’s Court upheld its decision as the prosecution had failed to prove their case again and reasonable doubt arose, based on all the evidence presented earlier.

For some reason, the prosecution was still unwilling to accept the judgement – even on the second occasion – and she was dragged to the High Court after an appeal by the Attorney-General’s Chambers. This time, however, the judge took the view that the magistrate’s court had erred in accepting the arguments presented by the defence which led to her acquittal on both occasions.

On April 13, 2022, the High Court judge, Datuk Abu Bakar Katar, said he did not agree with the respondent’s defence of being unaware of ‘
basikal lajak’
(modified bicycles) activity during the time of the incident. His view was that she should have been driving carefully because the area’s lighting was not bright at that time.

Sam was therefore
found guilty and sentenced to 6 months
 in prison as well as having to pay a fine of RM6,000. She was also disqualified from driving for 3 years after completing her prison sentence. Initially, her request for a stay of execution was denied but the Court of Appeal granted it on April 18 last year, with bail set at RM10,000.

Today, Sam was able to walk free when the Court of Appeal, in a unanimous decision by the 3-judge panel, considered and allowed her appeal on the grounds that the charge (of driving recklessly and causing the deaths of 8 boys) was defective and the conviction was also incorrect.

The case attracted national attention, with many members of the public of the opinion that, though there was a fatal accident, she should not have been charged as it was possible that the boys were really the ones at fault. Some quarters also criticized the parents who claimed to be unaware or did not prevent their children from being out at 3 am in the morning. Lawyer Ng Kui Min suggested that the parents were negligent under Section 33 of the Child Act 2001 in such a situation.

Hopefully, this is the end of Sam’s long nightmare but she said that the accident and the loss of lives will haunt her for the rest of her life. Outside the court today, she expressed her apologies to the families of the deceased. Acknowledging that she was the one who was driving the car when the accident occurred, she said she did not intend for it to happen. “My words may not bring them back to you, but I would like to say that I, too, carry the burden of this tragedy,” Sam said.

Dangerous games at night being played by kids


McLaren and Honda end troubled F1 partnership

McLaren’s Formula 1 team and its engine supplier for the past two and half years, Honda, have decided to part ways after a dismal run of performance since the partnership was forged in 2015. Since switching from Mercedes-Benz powered engines to the Honda ones, McLaren hasn’t been the same.

The team have found themselves closer to the back of the grid, competing with teams that lacked the same technology funding, and driver talent than what the British based automaker had at its disposal. Despite having one of the most talented drivers of this era in Fernando Alonso, the team has failed to impress.

Plagued by constant reliability issues, the under powered Honda units have caused McLaren and Alonso, a great deal of grief. So much so that the Spaniard delivered an ultimatum to his team by stating, if things did not improve soon, he would leave in search of other opportunities.

After allowing all this to sink in, both teams have decided, in a complicated manner, to break-up and go their separate ways. As part of the deal, McLaren will receive Renault engines for the 2018 season, Toro Rosso will switch to Honda power and its driver, Carlos Sainz Jr., would be loaned to the Renault F1 team for the 2018 season.

It’s a complicated break up but it’s one that might allow McLaren to get back to its winning ways. This is especially sad considering that this same partnership allowed Mclaren a great deal of success in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Any hopes of both teams rekindling that same success of their glory days will never be realized in the near future.

How well these new partnerships pan out remains to be seen, but rumour has it that Honda might introduce a more powerful engine for the 2018 season. If proven true, McLaren might have jumped the gun by switching to Renault power and allowing Toro Rosso to benefit from its R&D with Honda.

Source:

F1.com


Gerak Malaysia interstate travel ends today, CMCO extended another 4 weeks

Today is the final day of the special exercise under Gerak Malaysia which has allowed those stuck in other places during the Movement Control Order (MCO) to return to their homes. The MCO, now changed to Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), forbids interstate travel but a special one-time provision was made from May 7 to 10 to allow such travel.

Over 500,000 applications were received by the police via the Gerak Malaysia mobile app for approval to do interstate travel. Of this number, by the time the exercise started, there were 226,181 approvals given to motorists in all the states in Peninsular Malaysia. A schedule was prepared with travellers from different states designated specific days during the 4-day period.

Traffic flow has been smooth, and no incidents were reported. However, the police set up a number of roadblocks along the highways to conduct checks. The QR code that was sent to the applicants had to be shown to allow them to continue their journey.

No more interstate travel after midnight today

The interstate travel ends at midnight tonight for the last batch of travellers from Negeri Sembilan, Selangor and Terengganu. However, applications can still be made via the Gerak Malaysia app (or at police stations) for consideration in special cases (eg to attend a funeral) , including work reasons. The Prime Minister today also said that for married couples where the husband and wife are working in different states, permission can also be granted for travel.

However, unauthorised movements across state lines are not permitted and the usual
balik kampung
 journey is not allowed. Nevertheless, things have been relaxed it was also announced today – along with the extension of the CMCO for another four weeks – that visits to homes during Hari Raya will be permitted as long as they are within the same state. Visitors should not number more than 20 at a time and practices such as social distancing (1 metre apart) and use of face masks are expected. Providing hand sanitizers for guests would also be a good idea although many people carry their own nowadays.

As more businesses and industries have been allowed to resume operations, traffic volumes have been rising with people going to work daily.

Gradual relaxation of regulations

The regulations under the CMCO have been gradually relaxed and with many businesses allowed to resume operations at full capacity, traffic volumes on the roads have increased. There is no longer a 10-km limit to travel distance except for areas under the Enhanced MCO where movement in or out is strictly not permitted.

Up to 4 persons are allowed to travel in a private vehicle provided they are from the same house. When the MCO was introduced originally, only one person was allowed in the vehicle. With the current ruling, it makes things easier for people, especially those who may require assistance from others when buying food or other things. It is also beneficial to couples who have been sharing a car to go to work; prior to this change, it was suggested that one person use public transport which incurred extra cost daily at a time when many face financial challenges.

The new ‘normal’ at Honda dealerships where Standard Operating Procedures are followed.

Car companies re-open outlets

Most car companies have received approval from MITI to resume operations and are progressively doing so. They are required to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the protection of their customers as well as staff so things will be different now. Some service centres report an influx of vehicles as they have been overdue for scheduled servicing. Owners are asked to call first to make an appointment and walk-ins will not be entertained. Measures such as social distancing and contactless transactions are carried out at public areas.

At petrol stations, measures to prevent virus spread include regular disinfecting of touchpoints.

The extension of the CMCO until June 9, 2020 may be greeted with dismay by many. Understandably, everyone wants things to get back to normal and the end of the CMCO would signal that. Unfortunately, ‘normal’ is not going to be the same as before and even though the number of persons infected with COVID-19 may decrease, the threat remains and the public must continue to be on guard and be responsible enough to follow the measures recommended by the Health Ministry.


Used Bugatti Chiron to fetch profit for owner

The general consensus when it comes to purchasing a car is – all of them suffer some form of depreciation. As soon as they are driven off the showroom floor – their values drop. While cars like a Toyota Camry may hold its value for several years, other cars from lesser known marques may loose a whole lot more, rendering them almost unsaleable.

It seems as though a Bugatti Chiron has bucked the trend, with its owner expecting to make a cool £1.1 million (RM6.1 million) over the initial purchase price of £2.5 million (RM13.8 million). The UK based owner has put his car up for sale at specialist supercar dealer Romans International in Surrey for £3.6 million (RM19.9 million).

If this news has you scratching your head, its understandable considering that the car is considered ‘pre-owned’. But this isn’t the main criteria that makes the Chiron extremely valuable. The reason for the price tag – its the most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and the most exclusive production super sports car in the world.

Bugatti will only be making 500 of these cars over the course of the next 10 years, which makes it extremely desirable and valuable to many collectors and billionaires. But this one is extra special due to the options that come with it.

The black Chiron has been fitted with a leather and carbon interior at a cost of £53,000 (RM292,923) and carbon fibre seats for nearly £16,000 (RM88,429). It’s an insane amount of money to spend on a car that has covered only 1,609km since new, just to list it for sale shortly after taking ownership of it.

Speaking of the car’s listing, Tom Jaconelli, Director of Romans International, said, “Although the Chiron is not yet sold out, if you place an order today you will be waiting at least three or four years before the car could be built and delivered, so we are offering the chance to ‘jump the queue’ but of course there is a hefty premium to pay for this privilege.”

The supercar dealership has been in the business of selling exotic vehicles for nearly 20 years and has already sold a Maserati MC12 and a pair of Ferrari LaFerraris. Like the Chiron, these hypercars were also built in extremely low numbers and have commanded hefty asking prices.


The New 2019 Volvo S60 – Thor’s Hammer Strikes Again! [+Videos]

Does anyone remember the
Volvo S60
 of the new millennium? If you’re a car freak like me, you should. Debuting in 2000, there was one variant brought in by (then) Federal Auto Cars called the
S60 T5
 and it looked like this:

Well, unbeknownst to many, this was one of the cars that actually began the widespread use of the term
‘sleeper’
 among car enthusiasts because below that unassuming bonnet up front lay a
2.3-litre, turbocharged 5-cylinder
 engine that produced
247bhp
 and
330Nm
 of torque. No,
really
.

Top speed was a governed
250kmh
,

and
0-100kmh
 was achieved in
6.8sec
. Those figures are impressive even today, so let’s not forget that this was almost
20-years
 ago!

Carrying on this fine ‘sleeper’ tradition, the new
Volvo S60
 has made its debut recently in the USA, and it’s a stunner! Here’s what
The Car Connection
 had to say about the new 2019 S60’s powertrains…

“A trio of engines lie under the 2019 S60’s hood, each with its own name:
T5, T6, and T8.
 In the T5, a
2.0-liter
 turbocharged inline-4 cranks out
250 horsepower
, which is sent via an
8-speed automatic transmission
 to the front wheels. The
T6
 adds a
supercharger
 for a total of
316 hp
 delivered to all four corners. Topping the line is the
T8

plug-in hybrid
 that adds an electric motor for a combined output of
400 horsepower
.”

Here’s the product walk-around video…

And from
Auto Express UK
,
 here’s the latest regarding the
2019 Volvo S60
…

Volvo’s journey to fully-fledged premium car maker is now complete. With its XC SUV models matching or beating anything BMW, Audi or Mercedes can offer, and its S and V 90 models providing stiff competition for the likes of the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Merc E-Class, now it’s the turn of an all-new compact executive – the S60.

This model, though, has the toughest task of them all. When it arrives in UK showrooms next year, it’ll line up against an all-new 3 Series, not to mention Mercedes’ revised C-Class, Audi’s A4 and Jaguar’s XE.

Volvo’s
President and CEO Håkan Samuelsson
 calls the S60 “one of the most exciting Volvo cars we’ve ever made” and “a true driver’s car.” Big claims. It’ll be made at an all-new plant in the US in Charleston, South Carolina with a clear leaning to the big and lucrative US and Chinese markets.

2019 Volvo S60 Photo Gallery (photos from
Auto Express UK
)…


Long-term Development Cooperation for Automated Driving between Daimler-AG and BMW Group

They’re arch-rivals in the global marketplace but when it comes to collaborating, it’s a different matter. Given how expensive R&D costs are, carmakers often decide to work with selected partners or even form consortiums so that the costs can be shared. Each one may bring certain areas of expertise to the collaboration as well, reducing duplication and cost.

Daimler AG and BMW Group have recently announced their cooperation on automated driving as a long-term strategic move. This will focus on joint development of next-generation technologies for driver assistance systems, automated driving on highways and automated parking (all to SAE Level 4).

In addition, further talks are planned to extend the cooperation to higher levels of automation in urban areas and city centres. This underscores the long-term and lasting nature of the undertaking, which will extend to encompass a scalable platform for automated driving. The non-exclusive cooperation is also open to other carmakers and technology partners, with results being made available to under license if they want to use the technologies.

Swift market launch

A key aim of the cooperation is the swift market launch of the technology, expected to feature in passenger car systems for private customers from 2024. The two companies will each implement the technologies in their respective products independently.

The cooperation will see more than 1,200 specialists working together, often in mixed teams based at locations of both companies. Efforts will focus on developing a scalable architecture for driver assistance systems, including sensors, as well as a joint data centre for data storage, administration and processing, and the development of functions and software.

Along with Aptiv, Audi, Baidu, Continental, Fiat Chrysler, HERE, Infineon, Intel and Volkswagen, the BMW Group and Daimler have published a white paper entitled ‘
Safety First for Automated Driving
’. As well as covering all relevant safety methods for Level 3/4 SAE automated driving, the paper introduces a traceability system, which extends from the primary goal – being safer than the average driver – right down to the individual safety objectives of the various components.

Current development by both companies

Daimler AG has been working on series development projects not only for specific Level 3 vehicles but also for Levels 4 and 5. Long a leader in active safety systems, it programmed its systems largely in-house right from the very beginning.This year will see the launch in San Jose, California, of its first pilot programme, with Bosch, on self-driving vehicles (Levels 4/5) in urban environments.

This will be the next milestone within the existing cooperation between both partners and the cooperation will continue as planned. Early in the next decade, Daimler will bring to the market not only highly automated (Level 3) vehicles but also fully automated (Level 4/5) vehicles. It is the only carmaker in the world to be so well-positioned to apply autonomous driving in every relevant context, from passenger cars and vans to buses and trucks, and is therefore relying on scalable solutions to deliver automated driving.

The BMW Group has developed technology with unique scalability from Level 2 – 4 that both enables a high level of flexibility and ensures it will be viable in the future. Around the world, more than 70 test vehicles are testing the latest technology, collecting data in order to improve machine learning with artificial intelligence through simulations. The generation of technologies that is currently under development will go into production as Level 3 automation in 2021 in the BMW iNEXT where it will also be Level 4-enabled for pilot projects.


Nissan GT-R Track Edition to debut at New York Motorshow

The 2017 Nissan GT-R Track Edition will make its debut at the upcoming New York Motorshow which will take place from 14th to 23rd April. This track edition of Godzilla builds on the already successful platform to deliver even better driving dynamics.

Nissan’s latest edition to the GT-R range slots between the T (Touring) and R (Racing) editions of the namesake. It is said to offer higher levels of performance than the Premium version and incorporates a number of elements from the GT-R NISMO. That said,unlike the NISMO, its engine still retains the same horsepower as the Premium variant at 565bhp.

Other improvements to the car include additional adhesive bonding to the body, which improves body shell rigidity, the 4-wheel-drive system has been tuned to NISMO specifications and too top it all off, Nissan has reduced the weight and added additional roll stiffness as well as NISMO spec tyres.

Those aren’t the only elements that were carried over, the Track Edition also features NISMO front fenders, 20-inch NISMO forged aluminium-alloy wheels and a special dry carbon-fibre rear spoiler. As for the interior, it has a unique red and black colour combination and Recaro seats.

“The new GT-R Track Edition gives buyers a specialized model, one true to GT-R heritage and available only by special order,” said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “Building on the major upgrade to every GT-R for 2017, the Track Edition is an amazing package inside, outside and under the skin.”

Nissan says that the car will go on sale in the US towards the third quarter of this year but will only be available at GT-R certified Nissan dealerships in the country.


The 2020 Formula 1 World Championship Calendar

Vietnam will host a round in 2020 and is creating a street circuit in Hanoi for the race which will be held at the beginning of April

The Belgium GP, held at Spa-Francorchamps, will again have the longest circuit in the calendar

Singapore, which has hosted a night race every year since 2008, will continue to do so for another 4 years.

The Monaco street circuit has been a regular venue for decades and has the shortest length of all circuits in the calendar.


Peugeot 9X8 hybrid hypercar to join 2022 World Endurance Championship

Peugeot, which won the Le Mans 24 Hours in 1992 and 1993 as well as in 2009, will return next year to the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with its new-generation hypercar, the 9X8. Now under development, the 9X8 showcases Peugeot’s Neo-Performance strategy which combines technology and sportiness in both the carmaker’s road and racing cars.

A project between Peugeot Sport and Peugeot Design, the 9X8 is a direct successor of the Peugeot 905. The designers worked closely with engineers to explore new aerodynamic solutions and styling ideas. Greater flexibility, allowed by the WEC’s new technical rules regarding aerodynamics, permits new thinking that favours the emergence of innovative cars, allowing for new creative processes and a break away from established procedures to produce a hypercar for a completely new era.

What ‘9X8’ means

‘9X8’, the designation, is derived from a combination of the brand’s motorsport heritage and vision for the future. The ‘9’ continues the series used by Peugeot on its previous endurance racing cars. The ‘X’ refers to the all-wheel drive technology and hybrid powertrain. The ‘8’ is common across all of Peugeot’s current models – from the 208 and 2008 to the 308, 3008, 508 and 5008.

The 9X8’s front and rear lighting signatures, which take the form of three claw-like strokes, are familiar Peugeot trademarks, while the brand’s new lion’s head logo features at the front and on the sides of the car. “Since the 9X8 is a Peugeot, the original sketch that steered our work portrayed a big cat ready to pounce, a stance which we have suggested by the slightly forward-tilting cockpit. The overall lines of the Peugeot 9X8 express the brand’s styling cues, while its sleek, racy, elegant forms inspire emotion and dynamism,” explained Peugeot’s Design Director, Matthias Hossann.

No rear wing necessary

The finely-chiselled details of the rear-end design includes the quip ‘We didn’t want a rear wing’ above a wide diffuser. Rear wings were first seen at the Le Mans 24 Hours on the Chaparral 2F which contested the race in 1967, meaning this is the first time their use has been questioned in more than half a century. The 9X8’s innovative rear stems from research carried out by Peugeot Sport’s engineering team as they worked to ensure the model was as aerodynamic as possible, whilst maintaining an eye-catching style.

“The absence of a rear wing on the Peugeot 9X8 is a major innovative step. We have achieved a degree of aerodynamic efficiency that allows us to do away with this feature. Don’t ask how, though! We have every intention of keeping that a secret as long as we possibly can!” said Jean-Marc Finot, Motorsport Director of Stellantis (Peugeot is part of the Stellantis Group).

Distinctive cockpit colour scheme

“Inside, we wanted to take a special approach to the cockpit which, until now, has tended to be a purely functional and indistinctive aspect of racing cars, with no brand identity whatsoever. The combination of our colour scheme and Peugeot’s i-Cockpit interior styling signature have provided the 9X8’s cockpit with a distinctive feel and make it immediately identifiable as a Peugeot.”

Peugeot HYBRID4 powertrain

The 5-metre long racing car has a rear-mounted, 2.6-litre, bi-turbo, 680-bhp 90-degree V6 as part of the Peugeot HYBRID4 powertrain. The system output gets another 200 kW from the front-mounted 200kW motor-generator unit powered by a high-voltage 900V high-density battery pack.

The battery pack is located in a carbonfibre casing inside the car’s monocoque structure, behind the driver and underneath the fuel tank. It has been designed to combine durability with consistent performance during races of durations of up to 24 hours, and even beyond.

Although the system output is over 500 kW, the regulations set a maximum power output of just 500 kW during races. The regulations also forbid the use of electrical energy below 120 km/h, so the motor generator unit only engages once this speed has been reached. The car must pull away from standstill under the power of its internal combustion engine alone.

At full power, the power output is limited to 300 kW and adjusted as a function of the power delivered by the motor generator unit at 200 kW which is directly dependent on the battery level. When the motor generator unit comes into use, the car automatically switches to 4-wheel drive, thereby modifying its drivability.

When the battery pack is empty, the engine reverts to 500 kW power output and the drivetrain reverts to rear-wheel drive. During races, the battery will be fully charged prior to the start by means of a mains-connected plug-in hybrid charger. Once on the track, the battery will function completely independently and be charged only by the kinetic braking energy recovery system.

‘An extreme laboratory’

Peugeot’s CEO, Linda Jackson, says there’s more to the company’s involvement in endurance racing than the sporting aspect. “Endurance racing is a form of motorsport that provides us with an extreme laboratory, which explains why our association with Le Mans is so strong. More significant perhaps than the results we obtain on the racetrack are the opportunities it provides to prove our technology and the fruit of our research work in a race that throws extreme conditions at you for 24 hours,” she said.

“Le Mans gives us a competitive environment to validate the hybrid systems and technologies we are currently developing to reduce the fuel consumption – and therefore CO
2
 emissions – of our road cars. The teams at Peugeot Sport are proud when they see their research carried over to our production models,” she added.

Peugeot last raced and won at Le Mans in 2009 with the 908 HDi FAP which had a 5.5-litre V12 turbodiesel.

Ferrari to officially take part in Le Mans Hypercar class from 2023


Three new concept cars show design of Audi’s future luxury models

Audi has created three new concept cars to show how the brand will design its future luxury cars. The concept cars have a lot of focus on interior design which has been planned for Level 4 autonomous driving which will have much reduced driver involvement.

The three concept cars are called Skysphere, Grandsphere and Urbansphere. The shared root word ‘sphere’ in their names emphasizes all three designs’ focus on the new interior concept and the holistic digital ecosystem for a new world of experience on board.

With the transition to electromobility and, in a few years, to automated driving, this aspect of the car will change more dramatically than it has at any time in recent decades. And with the interior and the spatial architecture, a new overall car concept will also emerge in which the inner space becomes the core of new vehicle design. A digital ecosystem will also make personalized services possible beyond the car.

Each of the vehicles interprets this paradigm shift in design differently – created with resolute dynamism, distinction, or even long-distance travel in mind. In each case, the passengers’ needs and quality of experience are at the very top of the priority list. To achieve this, technological innovations and the highest quality materials and workmanship envelop the passengers in all areas.

Level 4 autonomy means that they can enjoy the freedom to drive themselves or – if possible – to simply disconnect from traffic and let the car drive itself. When autonomous mode is in use, the interior then changes its functionality. It becomes a free space for relaxing, networking, or even actively communicating.

“These concept vehicles embody our brand strategy. They show how we imagine the near future of premium mobility,” said Henrik Wenders, Head of the Audi brand. For him, the future is a design space to offer people new experiences during their journey. Audi is calling these newly designed car interiors – referred to as spheres – that envelope the passengers.

The first two concept cars will make their appearance during August. The Skysphere will be unveiled at Audi’s new design centre in California and also shown at the Monterey Car Week. A few weeks later, the second concept car, the Grandsphere, will be presented at the 2021 IAA Mobility show in Munich. In the first half of 2022, the Urbansphere will follow as the third concept car.

Unlike ‘vision cars’ like the Audi AI:CON or AI:ME, these three showcars are not trying to look into the distant future. Instead, they are presenting lines, technologies, and spaces for experience that are likely to be seen in some production models from the mid-2020s.

Audi A6 e-tron concept (w/VIDEO)

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


F1/Round 12: Provisional results and highlights of the 2022 French Grand Prix

With no risk of rain and a hot sunny day, almost all the drivers chose to start on mediums, except for Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, Scuderia Alphatauri’s Pierre Gasly and Alfa Romeo’s Valtteri Bottas.

Poleman Charles Leclerc got his Ferrari off to a clean start and already had a slight lead ahhead of the two Red Bulls chasing him into Turn 1. While Max Verstappen was able to grab second position, it was a quick-moving Lewis Hamilton who got ahead of Sergio Perez in the first few seconds. His Mercedes-AMG team mate, George Russell, was also right on the Red Bull’s tail but then, as he eased off, Alpine’s Fernando Alonso suddenly shot past.

Scuderia Alphatauri’s Yuki Tsunoda, who had started from P8, spun and by the time he recovered, the rest of the cars had pulled away and he was right at the back. But a closer look at Tsunoda’s spin showed that Alpine’s Esteban Ocon might have caused it and the Stewards gave him a 5-second penalty. But it would be little comfort for Tsunoda as the damage was great and he had to retire eventually.

Sainz, who started from the back, had moved up 4 places by lap 4 and was prepared to be in ‘overtaking mode’ for much of the race. While Hamilton was having a tough time with Perez, Russell was able to get past Alonso and grab back fourth place.

Verstappen was right up to Leclerc’s tail and determined to capture the lead early, even to the extent of seeming to ignore the need to manage his tyres. His crew, avoiding distractions, only suggested to him to control his pace.

Up to lap 10, the battles at the front saw no changes in positions, with Leclerc staying just ahead and Verstappen not able to find the right opening to make his move. Likewise for Perez who was duelling with Hamilton while Russell was just waiting for the Mexican to make a mistake.

By lap 13, Sainz had entered P10 and was 29 seconds behind his team mate, who was still in the lead. Verstappen’s gap seemed to open up a bit and it appeared that the Red Bull driver might be easing off to hold on to his tyres.

On lap 17, Verstappen pulled off to the pits, stood still for 2.4 seconds to get hard tyres fitted and rejoined in 7th, behind McLaren’s Lando Norris. Alonso was still at 6th, after having passed a few cars early in the race.

And then disaster struck for Leclerc as he crashed into the barriers on lap 18 at Turn 11. He was unhurt and came out of the car as the Safety Car began its duty. It seemed that the car had lost rear traction in mid-corner and at the speed he was doing, he could not recover fast enough. As his car was not obstructing, the Safety Car was able to come in after 2 laps.

By then, Verstappen has moved into the lead and the pressure was on Sainz to get up as high as possible and maximise the points to take home for the team. On lap 23, he was 6 seconds from the leader.

Turn 11 seemed to be a bad corner as Alfa Romeo’s Zhou GuanYu collided with Haas F1’s Mick Schumacher (damaging his rea wing) and the Chinese driver was given a 5-second penalty.

Hamilton was second, 2 seconds behind Verstappen, and the Mercedes-AMG driver had to keep an eye on Perez just behind while trying to close in on the Dutchman. The Ferrari team was also informed that Sainz had picked up a penalty for an unsafe release as he left his bay just as a Williams car was approaching.

As the race reached itsd halfway point, Verstappen had set a number of fastest laps and created a gap of 3 seconds from Hamilton. Both cars were on hard tyres but those on the  Red Bull had 2 more laps than the ones on the Mercedes-AMG, so was that going to be a deciding factor? In 2021, Hamilton had done a 1-stop in the race.

On lap 32, it was still more of a Perez-Hamilton battle than a Hamilton-Verstappen duel.  Pushing hard, Sainz got past Russell into fourth place but it may have taken a toll on his tyres. Behind the top five, Alonso was holding on to his reasonably secure 6th place.

With 15 laps remaining, the teams were trying to guess each other’s strategies and whether or not to try to last till the end. Pirelli was expecting Sainz to come in to get new tyres. Verstappen was 7 seconds ahead of Hamilton and having minor tyre issues but still able to keep going.

On lap 39, Williams Racing’s Nicholas Latifi left the track at Turn 2 after coming into contact with Haas F1’s Kevin Magnussen. Both drivers had to return to the pits as their cars sustained some damage, the Williams seeming to be worse off than the Haas.

Sainz was getting concerned about his tyres and wanted to come in but was told to remain out. And one lap later (lap 42), he was told he could come in just as he had come up alongside Perez and got past into third. But it was short-lived as he came in, finally got new tyres – but had to serve his 5-second penalty – and dropped to ninth. Back to work, while Perez was safely back in third.

The battle between Russell and Perez heated up and at one point, they came in contact. However, there was no attention from the Stewards. The battle was good for Hamilton who could be less concerned about Perez bothering him while he figured out how to get closer to Verstappen who was 9 seconds away.

Sainz, on fresh tyres, was flying and intent on getting onto the podium at least. He was sixth with 6 laps remaining and had Alonso to clear before chasing after a distant Russell. At this point, it looked like the only change would be between Russell and Perez as Hamilton was too far and running out of laps to catch Verstappen.

On lap 49, Zhou again had the frustration of his Alfa Romeo stopping before the end of the race. The Virtual Safety Car (VSC) was activated as the marshals pushed his car off the track.

Just as the VSC went off, Russell made his move and shot past Perez to claim third place with 3 laps remaining. He had timed his surge perfectly but the Red Bull driver was not giving up easily. Sainz was too far back to get any further forward after passing Alonso but might get an extra point for his fastest lap.

While Verstappen comfortably took the chequered flag to win the French GP again, his team mate worked hard all the way to the finish line, trying to regain third from Russell. But time ran out and Russell stayed ahead although the Mexican still didn’t want to accept his place, suggesting that Russell may have exceeded the track limits at Turn 6 and should incur a penalty.


Bosch launches ‘Heels & Wheels’ car and road safety workshop for women

Malaysia’s 62
nd
 Independence Day is just around the corner and in conjunction with all the celebrations,
Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Malaysia (Bosch AA)
 together with the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development organised the ‘Heels & Wheels’ program – a car and road safety workshop for women.

Supported by the folks from Proton, Petron, and the Road Safety Department of Malaysia (JKJR), the workshop aims to educate and empower women drivers to take charge of their own vehicles as well as road safety not only for them but also for other road users as well as the future of our nation, the children.

As part of the #BoschEmpowersWomen initiative, the car and road safety workshop was officiated by Malaysia’s very own Deputy Minister of Women, Family, and Community Development, YB Hannah Yeoh. Over 60 women staff members of the ministry attended the workshop where they primarily covered the hot topics such as:

Basic vehicle maintenance

Child Restraint Systems (CRS)

Road safety

According to YB Hannah Yeoh, “A study by Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) shows that 58% of children and infants’ death in the country is due to road accidents and the lack of child car seats is a large contributing factor to the fatalities. I am very excited and grateful that this workshop is emphasizing essential car maintenance including the importance of CRS considering the compulsory implementation of child car seats next year. Using CRS could help reduce the risk of fatal injuries by up to 70%.”

The Heels & Wheels workshop organised by Bosch AA also covered the four key components of basic car maintenance which involves the battery, wipers, engine oil, and tyres. Participants were given hands on experiences on how to identify any issues and how to remedy them in the simplest and most efficient manner, courtesy of the high-quality products offered by Bosch AA.

Mr Pang Yoon Kong, Country Manager of Bosch AA, said “At Bosch AA, car and road safety are key focus areas for us. We believe proactive car care and maintenance with the usage of quality car parts are fundamental to reduce risks of car breakdowns and road accidents. As we celebrate our Independence Day in a few days’ time, we hope that the Heels & Wheels workshop can empower and inspire women drivers to take charge of their car care to give them peace of mind while driving.”

The #BoschEmpowersWomen initiative is part of Bosch AA’s ‘
Drive for Life
’ safety campaign launched back in May earlier this year. To know more, head over to
Bosch Autoparts Malaysia Facebook
 page for more information.

Bosch has a solution to make EV battery packs last longer


New Peugeot brand identity and Lion logo launched

Peugeot, now part of the
 Stellantis Group
, has made another update and chance to its logo and brand identity. This is the 11
th
 time since the 1850s (although the original company was founded in 1810) and has been developed around the concept of ‘time’ and living in the moment.

The new Peugeot logo features an all-new take on the iconic Peugeot lion, with a roaring lion’s head inside a new Peugeot coat of arms. This coat of arms opens the way to a brand ecosystem that is not limited to its visual identity alone. It carries within it a deeper change. A shift in stance; a new state of mind; a new lifestyle. The recreated emblem acknowledges Peugeot’s evolution as a brand, with its innovative and successful model line-up.

Created by the Peugeot Design Lab and featuring a roaring lion’s head inside a coat of arms, the new design also uses visual language to reflect Peugeot’s electrification strategy which will offer pioneering new technologies. At the same time, the new logo embodies what Peugeot meant yesterday, what Peugeot means today, and what the brand will mean tomorrow.

Lasting and timeless

Designed to be lasting, the new logo also showcases Peugeot as a timeless brand, celebrating its history of over 200 years, while also looking to the future, towards new technologies and innovations provided by the new Stellantis partnership.

Significant changes in The Lion emblem over the years.

The new look will be accompanied by an international campaign and new-look website, as well as a new lifestyle collection of clothing and accessories later this year. It will be progressively used in vehicle models, starting with the all-new Peugeot 308 which will have its world premiere later this year.

New brand campaign

The new identity will be visible in every part of the organisation, from retailers and associated products to signage and communications, along with the carmaker’s first brand campaign in 10 years. The campaign, called ‘THE LIONS OF OUR TIME’, will feature both new and existing Peugeot customers. It aims to celebrate ‘Today’s Lions’ of all ages and cultures and highlight the value of quality time in our lives.

‘Today’s Lions’, of all ages, culture and backgrounds are no longer so much in search of power or money, but more in a quest for quality time. Through ‘THE LIONS OF OUR TIME’ campaign, Peugeot aims to empower the customers to own their most valuable asset: their time. The brand aims at turning time into quality time, an enriching experience.

The new lifestyle collection will be simple, attractive and with quality. This will feature everything from clothing and leather goods to electronic accessories and stationery. The new collection will echo Peugeot’s attention to detail and design when it launches later in the year.

Management team of new Peugeot distributor announced


Topless Lexus LC confirmed for production this year

Lexus has confirmed that it will soon offer a convertible version of the LC flagship coupe. The open-top model was shown as a concept car at the North American International Auto Show in January this year to gauge its potential as a production model.

When displaying the concept model, Lexus said the design goal was to express ‘Ultimate Beauty’, and it provoked an enthusiastic response from both industry experts and the public. Like the LC itself, the concept car was honoured on its debut with a prestigious EyesOn Design Award.

In action at Goodwood Festival of Speed

The first public viewing will take place this weekend in England. Visitors to this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed will be able to see a LC convertible prototype in action when it appears on the famous hill course. Nick Cassidy, who competes for Lexus in the GT500 class of the Japan Super GT series, will be behind the wheel.

Though camouflaged, the public will be able to see that the car is long, low and lean. It will share the coupe’s athletic proportions but project its own distinct identity.

Want A Totally Different Car Buying Experience?

Visit Lexus Malaysia!


ROV Concept is a Lexus ATV with a hydrogen-fuelled engine

Lexus started off with just sedans – the ES and LS models – and it was only about 7 years after the brand began life that it had its first SUV (the LX). In 1997, it introduced the RX, which started the rest of the premium brands towards offering SUVs as well. And in recent years, Lexus also offers a luxury MPV in some markets as well.

The brand has yet to offer a pick-up and you can’t rule that out since some brands are starting to try luxury versions of such vehicles and see how response is. But the designers obviously look at all kinds of vehicles and one idea they have is a Recreational Off-highway Vehicle, like a luxury ATV.

Referred to a ROV concept, it is intended to provide a luxury lifestyle experience to those wishing to discover the wilderness. The design team developed a vehicle that has Lexus design elements as well as the features of a genuine off-road vehicle – like exposed suspension, protective cage and chunky off-road tyres. The dimensions are 3120 mm in length), 1725 mm in width) and 1800 mm high.

The dark bronze paint is carefully crafted along with a lightweight body that has an interpretation of the iconic Lexus grille. The suspension cover protects functional parts as well as conveying the sense of durability and though a rugged machine, it still has the much-admired Lexus craftsmanship.

An interesting aspect of the ROV concept is that its engine runs on hydrogen, not petrol.
Toyota is exploring hydrogen engines
 as another approach towards carbon-neutrality without giving up on internal combustion engines. Besides the sound of a combustion engine, there is also the responsive rise in torque that comes from the fast combustion speed of hydrogen.

The displacement of the engine is 1 litre and it works just like a petrol engine. There is a high-pressure tank for compressed hydrogen which is delivered precisely by a direct hydrogen injector. Of note is that the hydrogen engine produces close to zero emissions, with a negligible amount of engine oil burned during driving.

Inside, based on the
 Tazuna interior concept
, it has a simple meter that instantly reads the information the driver needs while the driver concentrates on driving. Luxury details include a leather steering wheel and a sculpted shift knob. feature suspension elements that smooth bumps out of the ride. The seats are also upholstered in hard-wearing synthetic leather.

Sneakers inspired by new Lexus IS F SPORT (w/VIDEO)


BOSCH: Only 1% Of Women In Malaysia Can Troubleshoot Their Cars Without Assistance

In a surprising find, a
Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Survey
 has revealed that only one percent of women indicated that they are able to troubleshoot their vehicles when they experience a breakdown, as compared to 48 percent of men…

The survey, conducted by Bosch – a leading supplier of automotive components for the aftermarket, polled 350 Malaysian drivers aged between 18 and 55 to glean insights into car battery management habits among Malaysian drivers, which also revealed battery failure as the main cause of vehicle breakdowns.

“Our survey shows that 70 percent of vehicle breakdowns were caused by battery malfunction. This can pose not only an inconvenience but also a safety risk to all drivers, especially women if they are stranded all alone”
 said
Pang Yoon Kong, country manager of Bosch Automotive Aftermarket
 in Malaysia.

The survey also found that 84 percent of women turn to family and friends while 12 percent of them call auto assist organizations when their cars stall due to battery failure.
“According to the survey, there are still many female drivers who are not aware of how they can prevent car breakdowns caused by car batteries. At Bosch, we strongly believe in empowering drivers, especially women, to possess more knowledge about their cars and be able to identify early signs of battery failure,”
 said Pang.

Five signs of a failing car battery:

Slow engine crank

The cranking of the engine is sluggish and takes longer than normal to start

Dashboard Warning Light

When the battery power is weak, the engine warning light on the dashboard appears

Having to jump battery

Replace the battery if the vehicle has been jump-started more than three times in a week

Swollen battery case

Car battery exposed to excessive amounts of heat may swell and results in shorter life span

Smells like rotten eggs

As a car battery contains sulphuric acid, it may vent a foul smelling gas, much like rotten eggs, when it has been internally shorted, frozen, or overcharged. Have the battery inspected as soon as possible as the sulphuric acid leakage may damage other car parts.

29 percent of women drivers, compared to 22.6 percent of men, are still using lead-acid batteries as opposed to maintenance-free ones, as the survey revealed.

“More drivers now prefer maintenance-free batteries, compared to lead-acid batteries which require constant and regular maintenance on the driver’s part. Maintenance-free batteries have more advantages as they typically have higher cranking power and charge capacities, recharge faster, and last longer. Drivers are able enjoy a stress-free driving experience without worry about battery water levels at different states of charge,”
 added Pang.

Bosch batteries are available at authorized dealers nationwide, log on to

http://startwithbosch.com/my

Featured Image from
GarageWireUK
.

Supplementary Image from

FireStoneUK
.


Original Jaguar E-Type toolkit now available from Jaguar Classic

Until about 25 years ago, many cars came with ‘tool kits’, a collection of tools which the manufacturer felt would be useful to the owner in the event of a breakdown or for those who wanted to do a bit of maintenance themselves. That was in the days when the engineering was simpler, and engine bays were still quite open.

As engines became more sophisticated with more electronics and DIY maintenance diminished, the toolkit slowly began to have a reduced number of items. Things like spark plug wrenches, pliers and spanners were no longer included and eventually, only the tools for removing the wheel to replace a flat tyre were provided. In time, these too may be gone if runflat tyres and emergency puncture repair kits are considered adequate.

So the tool kit will be just a memory for the older generation and for some models like the Jaguar E-Type, a complete original toolkit can be worth as much as £5,000 (about RM27,000). The toolkit was originally offered with Series 1 and Series 2 E-types and hasn’t been available since the final Series 2 was produced in 1971.

Now, thanks to their unique access to engineering records, Jaguar Classic’s Genuine Parts experts have reproduced the toolkit to authentic specifications. The Jaguar-branded tools come in a period-correct leatherette-covered canvas roll, and feature all items needed to carry out routine maintenance on the iconic sportscar. The reproduction toolkit is priced from £732 (about RM4,000) in the UK.

“The original E-Type toolkit has become a collector’s item due to its rarity and historic appeal. We’ve had customers across the world contact us about obtaining one, which is why we decided to manufacture the toolkits again to their original specification. It’s the perfect finishing touch for E-Type aficionados,” said Dan Pink, Director of Jaguar Classic.

There are 20 items in the Jaguar Classic E-Type Toolkit and include a valve timing gauge, grease gun, handbrake-adjusting wrench, brake bleed tin and tube, and a tyre valve key.

The toolkit is also offered as an option for E-Type Reborn restoration customers. E-Type Reborn is a complete service from Jaguar Classic, offering the unique opportunity to buy a fully restored and highly collectible E-type direct from the original manufacturer.

Every E-Type Reborn, which starts with a base vehicle sourced by Jaguar Classic’s E-Type experts, is restored according to the company’s original 1960s factory specification. Unique access to build records, original drawings, and the team’s decades of experience ensures absolute authenticity, which has resulted in E-Type Reborn restorations winning concours awards in Europe and North America in 2019. Jaguar Classic Parts are used to maximise the vehicle’s quality, longevity and collectability.

Jaguar E-Type

Is this the most beautiful Jaguar in the world?


All-new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray unveiled – and it’s finally a mid-engine sportscar!

Along with the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Corvette is undoubtedly the other iconic American sportscar. Over 7 generations and 60 years, the engineers have dreamed of the sportscar with a mid-engine layout and finally, for the 8th generation, they get their wish.

“Corvette has always represented the pinnacle of innovation and boundary-pushing at GM. The traditional front-engine vehicle reached its limits of performance, necessitating the new layout,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “In terms of comfort and fun, it still looks and feels like a Corvette, but drives better than any vehicle in Corvette history. Customers are going to be thrilled with our focus on details and performance across the board.”

“As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette Stingray from the ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years,” said Michael Simcoe, Vice-President of Global Design, General Motors.

A note about the Stingray suffix – this has not always been present in the nameplate. It has been used for concept cars over the years and on production models, only three generations used to. These were the second and third generation, and the seventh generation which was introduced in 2014. According to the GM Heritage Centre, the use of ‘Stingray’ or ’Sting Ray’ for the sportscar evokes an immediate connection to predatory fish of the ocean.

Showing off the engine

The new location of the V8 engine is truly the focal point for the car’s design. It sits like a jewel in a showcase, visible through the large rear hatch window. The benefits are obvious: better weight distribution, with the rear weight bias enhancing performance in a straight line and on the track. And better responsiveness and better sense of control due to driver positioning closer to the front axle, almost on top of the front wheels.

Chevy’s next-generation 6.2-litre Small Block V-8 LT2 engine is the only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment. It will produce 495 bhp/637 Nm of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque for any entry-level Corvette. The 0 – 60 mph (96 km/h) is claimed to be under 3 seconds when equipped with Z51 Performance Package.

Perhaps the biggest update is found in the lubrication and ventilation system. For the first time ever, the base Stingray will use an engine-mounted dry sump oil system and three scavenge pumps for improved track performance. During serious track driving, oil volume remains high to avoid diminished performance. The new Stingray’s lateral capability is greatly improved, so the LT2’s dry sump lubrication system had to be redesigned to provide exceptional engine performance even at lateral acceleration levels exceeding 1g in all directions.

Every part, including the exhaust system’s wires, tubes, routing fasteners, coolant hoses, exhaust manifold and even the bolts and fasteners, is built with appearance in mind. All engine components were given careful consideration just like the exterior, and even the heat shields are textured.

8-speed DCT a first for Chevy

The next-generation LT2 is paired with Chevrolet’s first 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This transmission, designed with TREMEC, has a double-paddle de-clutch feature that even allows the driver to disconnect the clutch by holding both paddles for more manual control.

The DCT is mated to a new Electronic Transmission Range Selector. With this electric shifter, there’s no mechanical interface between the shift lever and the transmission. The Corvette’s electric shifter incorporates two pull toggles for Reverse and Drive and push buttons for Park, Neutral and Low/Manual.

The new Stingray benefits from GM’s new digital vehicle platform, an all-new electronic architecture that enables the adoption of the company’s next generation of technologies. The architecture minimizes wiring while allowing for faster signal transmission between different vehicle systems and the higher resolution screens. The platform enables continuous vehicle improvements through over-the-air updates and enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Design inspired by racing and aeronautics

The new exterior design has a bold, futuristic expression with mid-engine exotic proportions but it is still unmistakably Corvette. The door, bonnet and hatch releases are all hidden, keeping surfaces smooth.

True to its aeronautical and racing roots, the Stingray’s canopy-forward stance was inspired by the F22, F35 and other modern fighter jets as well as Formula 1 racing. Other classic Corvette signatures adapted to the Stingray include a distinctive face that communicates the purpose of the vehicle’s mission, a classic horizontal crease, aggressive front fenders and familiar positioning of the dual-element headlamps.

Personalisation like never before

The interior is further enhanced by a cockpit that envelopes the driver, conveying the high performance and aeronautic theme. Vertical climate controls and ultra-thin vents minimize the height of the instrument panel, creating a low, spacious interior.

There’s a choice of either real aluminium or real carbonfibre for console and door trim plates. Personalisation is like never before and customers can even choose from 6 seatbelt colours and 2 stitch packages.

And, like the Mustang, this will be the first time in the Corvette’s history that a righthand drive variant will be available from the factory as well.

Carbonfibre trim for seats

Besides the GT1 seats, there are GT2 seats which are first for the model. These seats have a racing-inspired look with comfort for long trips courtesy of dual density foam. They include carbonfibre trim, a Napa leather insert, Mulan leather bolsters, a jet black-painted seat back, two-way lumbar support and wing adjustment, plus heating and ventilation.

Competition Sport seats can be ordered for the serious track-focused driver. These have aggressive bolsters, full Napa seating surfaces and carbonfibre trim on the headrest, heating and ventilation, along with an all-new durable performance textile inspired by Kevlar vests.

The centre tunnel ‘backbone’

The car’s structure is built around its backbone: the centre tunnel. This enables a light, stiff structure to serve as the foundation for the suspension system to perform in an optimized manner. By removing unwanted body compliance, Corvette customers will experience the ultimate in ride performance with outstanding lateral grip capabilities.

The new Stingray features coil-over dampers that create entirely new ride and handling characteristics. The mid-engine architecture allows for a short, straight and stiff steering system, coupled with an updated electronic steering system, making the driver’s chassis input instantaneous.

The front suspension lift raises ground clearance by approximately 40 mm at the front bumper in 2.8 seconds, protecting against bumps, potholes, steep driveways and other road disturbances. It can operate at speeds up to about 40 km/h and be programmed to work automatically through GPS to remember up to 1,000 locations.

The optional Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 reads the road better, providing more precise data through suspension-mounted accelerometers. Its improved electronics are said to respond faster and more smoothly to driver inputs and contribute to class-leading ride quality.

Production of the new Corvette Stingray starts later this year and its starting price is to be below US$60,000 (equivalent to about RM247,000). This has amazed American enthusiasts who see it as a bargain price for a mid-engine sportscar although the more capable variants would cost more.


Chrysler 300 is the most wanted vehicle in the US

Modern muscle cars do not get the respect that they deserve because many prefer to ogle at their ancestors, specifically those from the 1960s and 1970s. Thankfully, the Chrysler 300, considered by many as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, has been recognized for all the right reasons.

The car has emerged as the winner of the Large Car segment in Edmunds’ Most Wanted awards. This competition recognizes vehicles that are the most in-demand based on sales, days-to-turn and shopper interest data.

Winners of each of the 17 categories are determined by analyzing data from the first nine months of 2017 for all models on sale during that period. Edmunds tabulates its site data and traffic to gauge, which vehicles garnered the most attention.

The rankings for each of these data sets were weighted equally to determine the winners in each segment. Unlike many other automotive competitions, Edmunds’ is based on pure data alone and not the subjective input of a panel of judges.

“Bold and aggressive, the Chrysler 300 stands out in a class of largely look-alike sedans, and its originality makes it one of the most popular large cars on the market,” said Jessica Caldwell, executive director of industry analysis, Edmunds.

The Chrysler 300 is said to offer world-class performance, efficiency and quality. It is also equipped with cutting edge tech that include a sophisticated entertainment system. That said, its main party piece has to be its sweet sounding 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine.

It isn’t the only powerplant offered however, there’s a more docile 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 available that produces decent amount of power. But it’s no match for its bigger and power powerful brother. The Chrysler 300 is a fan-favourite in the US and should continue to be that for quite a while.


Go Visit The 2018 MAI Malaysia Autoshow @ MAEPS! [+Full Photo Gallery]

Happening from
 26th to 29th April 2018
, the MAI Malaysia Autoshow is currently going on now at MAEPS in Serdang!

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) took the opportunity to unveil the new
Golf R-Line
 at the show on opening day, completing the new Golf family line-up in Malaysia. The event also marked the Golf R-Line’s first public appearance in the country.

Golf R-Line is priced at
RM166,990
. Unmistakable in looks, the car is decked in the ‘R-Line’ styling package which includes the ‘R-Line’ front and rear bumper, rear spoiler, ‘R-Line’ badges on radiator grille and side panels, and 17” Singapore alloy wheels.

Perodua introduced their latest best-deal in town in the form of the
Bezza GXtra
, priced at only
RM35,500
! It was unveiled and officiated by our Prime Minister himself at the show. Powered by a 1.0L engine, the GXtra replaces the older Bezza
Standard G
. Available with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto, the GXtra boasts an incredible
22.8km
 per litre, making it one of the most frugal (non hybrid) cars available in the market.

In a separate hall (Hall C), Go Auto used the MAI Autoshow to preview its new
Haval H9
 to the public. This colossal 7-seater SUV with more than a passing resemblance to a Toyota Land Cruiser ‘Ninja Turtle’, is powered by a turbocharged dual-VVT 2.0L engine that produces
160bhp
 and a whopping
324Nm
 of torque. Its launch date is yet to be announced but the price is expected to be well below
RM200,000
. I’m guessing about RM160k, maybe.

Over in the 2-wheel segment, Boon Siew Honda officially launched the new
X-ADV 750 Adventure
 (below), the iconic
Africa Twin
 and the gorgeous retro-sports
CB1000R
 (above).

While the CB1000R’s price has not been determined, attendees (especially me) were shocked to hear that the X-ADV 750 costs just
RM57,999
 and the Africa Twin (below) starts at
RM69,999
 for the standard and
RM75,999
 for the DCT (dual-clutch transmission).

These figures are in the region of almost
twenty-thousand less
 than predicted, or what some poor-souls have paid for the bikes in the grey market. Nice one Boon Siew!

And speaking of Honda, in addition to all their cars currently available, HMSB (who had the biggest pavilion by far) displayed the new
Civic Type-R
, which was garnering the lion’s share of shutterbug and selfie action at MAEPS. Can you see it in the photo above? It’s right there where the crowd is. Really.

Proton’s star of the show in Hall A was a mock-up of the Iriz rally car, and it was very difficult getting this photo above because everyone was bustling around it taking a multitude of shots. Don’t be surprised if you see identical ones on the road next month….

Also in Hall A, the highlight of the Toyota pavilion is of course the new
Toyota C-HR
 compact-crossover SUV, launched earlier this year. The C-HR has been drawing lots of attention along with its siblings the latest L-Edition Toyota Hilux, Vios, Sienta, Innova X and Avanza X.

Of course a car show would not be complete without at least a few classic and
old-skool
 cars in attendance, and thus
Kelab Volvo Klasik
 or Classic Volvo Owners Club put in a good showing also at Hall C, where I was amazed to find not one, but TWO classic 262C Bertone Volvo coupes!

Pictures don’t do these cars justice, you really have to see them in the metal, absolutely incredible.

So if you happen to be free this weekend, head on over to MAEPS in Serdang, and in the meantime, enjoy the gallery! –
 Chris Wee.

MAI Malaysia Autohow Photo Gallery…


Seven Great Things about the Next-Generation Ford Ranger

There’s no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our lives in different ways. The situation has now become endemic, meaning we have to live with COVID-19 being around, but life can progress to some degree of normalcy.

For many, the pandemic and what was experienced with lock-downs and the fear of being infected would have brought on a re-evaluation of priorities. The quality of life would become even more important and with it, the need to have a true balance of work, family and play.

For driving enthusiasts, that balance would include doing more and going further with whatever vehicle is owned. It can be at work, going off the beaten track on an adventure, or on a leisurely weekend outing with family and other like-minded individuals, or even doing community service.

The next-generation Ford Ranger can be an ideal vehicle for all these activities. It is the smartest, most versatile and capable Ranger yet, an inspiration for a new generation of owners to make their own routes in life and Live the Ranger Life to the fullest.

Here’s a quick overview of the most important things about the next-generation Ford Ranger:

1. A trusted partner for the Ranger way of life

The Ranger was a pioneer in the pick-up segment in Malaysia, transforming what was a basic workhorse machine into an all-round lifestyle vehicle. And as its numbers grew, the community of Ranger owners also grew with shared values and the enthusiasm for life and all that it offers.

The Ranger’s versatility makes it a trusted partner not just for work but also for family and play. It is a single vehicle that can do more – and do it well. When it’s not used for work, it can provide shared experiences through the exclusive Ford Ranger Getaways community and experiential platform.

2. Large infotainment screen with 360
o
 camera view

From the first generation, the Ranger has led with the technology it offers and the next-generation Ranger continues this. Apart from its high-level of well-integrated technology is a multitude of features that include a connective experience with the large first-in-class 12-inch/10,1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The large space on the screen means bigger displays of maps and information, while there’s enough room left at the bottom of the screen for other menus such as climate and entertainment controls. The infotainment system is powered by Ford’s cutting-edge SYNC 4A communication and entertainment system.

Additionally, with the 360
o
 camera on the WildTrak, parking the next-generation Ranger is ‘no sweat’. Whether it’s tight urban spaces, navigating tricky terrain or manoeuvring through narrow streets, the driver can easily see the situation on every side.

3. Digital instrument cluster

The next-generation Ranger has done away with the analogue instrument panel and all information is now presented on a digital display. This not only enhances clarity but also allows for personalisation of information preferred by the driver. Graphics featuring realistic bodystyle avatars are available to suit different moods on each journey.

4. Next-gen safety

Safety is paramount to Ford, whatever type of vehicle it is. The Ranger nameplate has always been a leader in the segment with an array of safety features and advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) that has expanded and become more advanced.

With the next-generation Ranger, there are more of the latest crash protection features and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist System). The ADAS features include Evasive Steer Assist, Lane Change Warning and Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and High Beam Assist. This will make the driver feel more secure and confident in every driving situation and enjoy the drive.

5. New interior – like being in a premium SUV

The Ranger changed people’s perception of a truck because it had the same comfort and convenience as a passenger car. With the next-generation Ranger’s redesigned interior and soft-touch materials as well as a more comfortable and spacious cabin than previous models, this is now elevated to give the feeling of being in a premium SUV. Except, of course, you can do more and enjoy more with the capabilities of the ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger.

6. Stand out with a bold new exterior

The Ranger has always appealed as a stylish looking truck. It continues this attribute in the next-generation Ranger which has a commanding presence and athletic exterior design. From the pronounced wheel arches and strong horizontal upper grille bar to the unique new C-clamp matrix LED headlights (on selected variants), the next-generation Ranger once again leads in looks.

7. Power and performance

Though looking stylish, the next-generation Ranger has all the capabilities that Ford trucks have been known for. It can work as hard as it plays and for those who use it for work, Ford’s proven 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is the ideal powertrain to get work done.

There’s also the more sophisticated Bi-Turbo engine with its muscular character that provides maximum power of 210 ps and a whopping 500 Nm of torque. And though it is powerful, it’s also efficient which means good fuel economy as well. A proven 10-speed automatic transmission gives the wide spread of ratios to have a gear for every kind of situation.

Nationwide debut tour

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will be organising a nationwide debut tour for the next-generation Ranger ahead of the showroom launch. For an exclusive invitation to a debut event at a city near you,
sign up here
. You’ll also receive regular updates to keep you informed.

For more information about the next-generation Ranger and full launch schedule, follow the Ford Malaysia Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channel or visit
www.sdacford.com.my
.