Berjaya Sompo Unveils Integrated Approach – Top 5 General Insurance Provider By 2020 Targeted!

Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad
 (‘Berjaya Sompo’), a renowned general insurance provider in Malaysia announced its plans recently to become one of the top five general insurance providers in Malaysia. The brand aims to achieve this by developing a detailed growth agenda with key focus areas identified. With a growing network of
20 offices
 and
 2,800 agents
 nationwide, Berjaya Sompo is committed to being the leading insurer of choice by providing quality solutions and world class services in the best interest of its customers.

(L-R) Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, Mr. Tan Sek Kee, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, Mr. Futoshi Hanahara, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad

Customer Centricity…

Customers are at the heart of Berjaya Sompo and its approach to customer experience is a vital component of enabling the brand to move towards greater heights in Malaysia.
Mr. Tan Sek Kee
 (below),
 CEO of Berjaya Sompo
 said,
“Customer feedback is key to product innovation and this allows us to incorporate solutions into products that customers value and want. We execute this by listening to customers and gathering data trends through consumer surveys and market research. Ultimately, Berjaya Sompo is working towards improving the overall experience and journey for all customers across different touch points.”

More…

Berjaya Sompo wants to make insurance simple to understand for the average consumer. As such, it has embarked on the following initiatives:

Thematic Brand Campaign: Silent Guardians

Berjaya Sompo’s latest thematic brand campaign, called ‘Silent Guardians’ is a unique take on storytelling about how Berjaya Sompo aims to foster closer relations with all its stakeholders, leveraging on the brand’s Japanese heritage and history, from Japan to the world since 1888.

Berjaya Sompo is raising up its army of heroes through its ‘Silent Guardians’ via the use of Japanese warriors, ninjas, samurais, sumo wrestlers, karatekas, and kendokas – protecting Malaysians everyday, even without realising. The thematic brand campaign incorporates unique humour to highlight the importance of being insured so that Malaysians are able to live their daily routines freely, without a worry.

Berjaya Sompo’s spokespersons with mascot ‘Sompony’, the ’Silent Guardians’ and Peter Davis, (3rd from left) Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, (4th from left) Mr. Tan Sek Kee, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, (2nd from right) Mr. Futoshi Hanahara, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad

Sompony: Berjaya Sompo’s Adorable Mascot

Recently, Berjaya Sompo introduced its latest and adorable mascot, Sompony. The brainchild of Berjaya Sompo’s parent company, Sompo Holdings (Asia) Pte. Ltd. (‘SOMPO’), Sompony is a hero, helper and trustworthy companion that Malaysians can count on to guide them as they navigate through Berjaya Sompo’s products and services.

Used across its markets in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore, Sompony was created to reshape how the brand connects with consumers in a more human, light-hearted and relatable manner. Sompony adds value to SOMPO with successful character building. It helps internal stakeholders and agents in their storytelling efforts as they educate customers and explain about the unique products and services that Sompo offers.

Product Innovation: SOMPO Motor

Understanding the consumer mindset which changes over time, as well as in response to recent developments regarding motor detariffication in Malaysia, Berjaya Sompo evolves accordingly and continuously looks at ways to innovate and develop solutions that meets the needs of today’s consumer. One example of this: the all-new SOMPO Motor.

SOMPO Motor is a comprehensive motor insurance for car owners which reduces the overall add-on costs without going through the tedious task of including add-on benefits. Further, it has add-on benefits that provides a peace of mind to drivers which include better coverage for older vehicles and full coverage against natural disasters.

The new basic benefits included in SOMPO Motor are as follows:

Special perils coverage, where claim amount does not exceed RM10,000 or 20% of Sum Insured, whichever is lower,

Coverage for all drivers,

Repairs warranty for 12 months,

Emergency towing cost of RM300 following an accident.

“SOMPO Motor has reduced the hassle of going through commonly included add-ons for a comprehensive private car insurance by including them in the basic benefits. New add-on benefits also include better coverage for older vehicles and full coverage against natural disasters. We welcome the implementation of motor detariffication as it enables Berjaya Sompo to compete on a level playing ground, giving the spotlight to the true hero: SOMPO Motor. With this product, our main focus is enhancing the base level features and service level. We want to ensure we have a product that our customers find useful and beneficial,”
 said
Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo.

Consumers may also opt for new additional benefits such as full special perils coverage, unlimited towing costs within Malaysia, and waiver of betterment for vehicles up to 15 years. Another new feature of SOMPO Motor is that it provides consumers with the option to choose the Voluntary Excess of the Policy, ranging from 0% to 3% of the sum insured. Voluntary Excess of the Policy gives consumers the option to pay out of their own pocket for each claim, up to 3% of the claim amount, in exchange for a lower premium each month.

In addition, Berjaya Sompo is collaborating with esteemed car brands such as Honda Malaysia, Mazda Malaysia, and Nissan Malaysia to provide bundled insurance packages that are tailored to the needs of car owners.

Digitalization of Berjaya Sompo

In today’s digital-first world, consumers are now expecting and consuming information faster than ever and we need to constantly innovate to stay ahead.

Understanding the consumer mindset, Berjaya Sompo has taken major strides in activating digitalization across the company via a number of key initiatives, including: online product innovation, increasing digital distribution channels, introducing new B2C channels as well as strengthening its digital infrastructure.

Mr. Tan said,
“Berjaya Sompo will be investing heavily in digitalization as a key focus area to move the brand forward. One example of this is digital innovation, as we are developing new B2C channels to serve today’s mobile customers, as well as the simplification of our online products across Motor, Travel, Snatch and Home as we make it quicker and easier for Malaysians to purchase our products. In the near future, we will also be looking at strengthening our data capabilities and translating meaningful data that will help us serve our customers better.”

As for brick and mortar stores, Berjaya Sompo has opened a new branch in Petaling Jaya in 2017 and another one in Seremban in September 2018. Beyond this, it has no further plans to increase its branch network – in accordance with Berjaya Sompo’s digital-first approach.

“We are confident that with on our digitalization journey, we can service our customers from any of our current locations, regardless of distance. Furthermore, we anticipate more and more clients moving online to buy, renew and claim insurance in the coming years, hence dependency on physical storefronts will reduce,”
 added Mr. Tan.

A Robust Talent Strategy

For Berjaya Sompo, building the capabilities of its internal talent pipeline is key. This will ensure that the workforce is motivated and driven to establish customer experience as the number one priority in becoming the preferred insurer, working towards achieving customer excellence.

“Internally, we have various development programmes in place for all levels of our workforce that provides training and practical skills for not only work-related tasks, but also developing intrinsic skills that will shape them for long-term advancement,”
 said Mr. Tan.

With these plans in place, Berjaya Sompo is fully committed to growing in and with Malaysians, especially at this historic era of Malaysia Baru. As the brand works towards not only fulfilling but exceeding the expectations of its stakeholders, the brand is confident about fulfilling its aspirations of becoming one of the top five general insurers in Malaysia, contributing to the Malaysian economy and serving Malaysians nationwide.

For more information on the latest SOMPO Motor and other Berjaya Sompo products, visit:
https://www.berjayasompo.com.my/product/sompo-motor

To learn more about the Silent Guardians, visit:

www.berjayasompo.com.my/silentguardians


Fuel Price Updates For February 6 – February 12, 2021


Polestar releases uncamouflaged image of its first SUV – fully electric, of course

Polestar, the Swedish car company which makes and sells on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), will hold the world premiere for its next model, the Polestar 3, this October. This will be a SUV, the company’s first, and reflects the significance of the segment which is the most competitive today. Polestar will be entering one of the highest margin and growth segments in the automotive industry, particularly in the USA.

Customers can expect to order Polestar 3 in initial launch markets from the day of the premiere. Production is expected to begin in early 2023, and besides China, the model will be manufactured in the USA. This follows carmakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW which set up factories for their first SUVs in the USA in the 1990s.

“This is a major milestone for our company, one that boosts our growth trajectory and takes us into our next phase,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar’s CEO. “Polestar 3 is the SUV for the electric age. Our design identity evolves with this high-end large luxury EV, with a strong, individual brand character. With this car, we bring the ‘sport’ back to the SUV, staying true to our performance roots.”

The company said that Polestar 3 will, over time, offer autonomous highway piloting powered by the best-in-class LiDAR sensor from Luminar and centralized NVIDIA computing power. At launch, it will have a dual-motor drivetrain for all-wheel drive and a large battery, with a range target of over 600 kms.

Polestar plans to launch a new model every year for the next 3 years, starting with Polestar 3. Polestar 4 is expected to follow in 2023, and it will be a smaller SUV coupe. In 2024, the Polestar 5 performance 4-door GT is expected to debut as the production evolution of Polestar Precept.

While Polestar is a recognised carmaker today, its origins were rather unusual as it started off as the name of a racing team in 1996. It gained prominence in the Swedish Touring Car Championship running Volvos and by 2015, Volvo Cars decided to take it in and give it a role involving high performance products.

The Polestar name first appeared with a successful racing team running in the Swedish Touring Car Championship with Volvos.

With Volvo Cars being acquired by the Geely Group in 2010, Polestar also became part of the group while its racing activities have been run by Cyan Racing. Under the Geely Group, Polestar grew further and besides developing and selling electric performance cars, it offers performance hardware upgrades and engine software optimisations for Volvo models through their Polestar Engineered division.

Polestar also functions as an innovation lab for Volvo Cars, developing designs and technologies. Being part of a huge group, Polestar enjoys technological and engineering synergies and benefits from significant economies of scale as a result, as well as sharing resources. Polestar has production facilities in China, and as mentioned earlier, there will be a new factory in the USA to manufacture the new SUV model.

Polestar factory in Chengdu, China.

To date, Polestar has produced two models – the Polestar 1 which was built between 2019 and 2021 as a low-volume electric performance hybrid GT with a carbonfibre body, and the Polestar 2 which sells in larger volumes.

The company plans to increase its presence to at least 30 global markets by the end of next year. This supports its plans to grow ten-fold from global sales of approximately 29,000 in 2021 to approximately 290,000 by the end of 2025.

Polestar O2 concept shows that sportscars will still exist in the electric age


PUSPAKOM to resume vehicle inspection operations from April 29, 2020

Following the announcement by the JPJ that it will open its branches for limited services, PUSPAKOM has also announced that it will resume regular vehicle inspection services for commercial vehicles of certain categories beginning from April 29, 2020. All PUSPAKOM branches nationwide will be operating except at Batu Caves, Glenmarie and Pandan Mewah in Selangor, and Taman Daya in Johor. Mobile inspection services will also be available from the same date.

Operating hours for the various branches vary, as shown on the chart below:

* branches that offer Motor Vehicle Licence (LKM) renewal)

The commercial vehicles that PUSPAKOM will offer inspection services for are goods vehicles, public services vehicles and vehicles for tourism. Inspection services for other types of vehicles will be available at a later date.

The branches will also provide insurance renewal services while branches in the Klang Valley and the southern zone can also process Motor Vehicle License (LKM) renewal services.

To avoid congestion, PUSPAKOM would like vehicle owners to make a reservation through the MyPUSPAKOM system first. Drive-in customers without a prior appointment will not be accepted. For vehicles which have inspection certificates expiring between March 18 2020 to April 28, 2020, can contact PUSPAKOM to check on the scheduled date for their vehicle inspection.

The company also asks all customers to adhere to precautionary measures to prevent spread of the COVID-19 virus, such as social distancing (1 metre or more apart), wear a face mask and have no symptoms of COVID-19. They should not visit PUSPAKOM if they are unwell and should seek medical attention to check their condition.

PUSPAKOM services now include roadtax renewal for light commercial vehicles


All-new Honda Civic Type R sets new lap record at Suzuka before launch (w/VIDEOS)

Even before its official launch (around the middle of this year), the next generation of Honda’s Civic Type R has started to collect records. As it goes through final development evaluation, test-drivers have been pushing it to the limits and in the course of one run recently, a new lap record for a front-wheel drive car was set at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.

It lapped the 5.8-km track in 2 minutes 23.120 seconds, which was 0.873 of a second faster than the time achieved by its predecessor, a 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition which was a development car.

The Suzuka Circuit, opened in 1962, is famous for its high-speed chicanes and challenging corners. It has hosted the Japanese Formula 1 Grand Prix for all but two years since 1987. Racing drivers regard it as one of the world’s greatest circuits and it has been a popular course for testing high performance Honda models.

Before the previous front-wheel drive lap record at Suzuka, Honda’s tenth generation Civic Type R GT broke the front-wheel drive lap record at the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 2017 with a lap time of 7 minutes 43.8 seconds. A production specification Civic Type R GT went on to break front-wheel drive production car records at 5 legendary European racetracks.

Honda Malaysia gifts a Civic Type R to King for use as escort car


Fuel Price Updates For December 19 – December 25, 2020


China’s NIO Inc. launches all-electric ET7, its first autonomous car

NIO Inc., a global smart electric vehicle company founded in November 2014, is still pretty much unknown although it has generated some news for itself in various way. In 2015, the NIO Formula E team won the inaugural Formula E Drivers’ Championship and in 2016, it launched the EP9, one of the world’s fastest electric vehicles. The EP9 broke lap records and the world’s autonomous driving records at Nurburgring Nordschleife.

In 2017, NIO unveiled a concept car called EVE and a year later, it began deliveries of the ES8, a 7-seater high-performance electric flagship SUV, in China. Since then, it has also added the ES6, a 5-seater electric SUV to its range as well as the EC6 electric Coupe SUV and ES8 premium electric SUV.

Autonomous driving capability

This year, it has started off with the launch of the ET7, an electric flagship sedan, its first model with autonomous driving capability. The ET7 features NIO’s latest NAD (NIO Autonomous Driving) technology based on NIO Aquila Super Sensing and NIO Adam Super Computer. NAD is said to provide safer and more relaxing autonomous driving.

The NAD full stack autonomous driving capability includes perception algorithms, localisation, control strategy and platform software. NIO Aquila Super Sensing features 33 high-performance sensing units, including 11 8MP high-resolution cameras, one ultralong-range high-resolution LiDAR, 5-millimetre wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, two high-precision positioning units, V2X and ADMS.

Aquila can generate 8GB data per second, while NIO Adam features 4 Nvidia Orin SoCs with a total computing power of 1,016 TOPS. All these elements and computing capabilities are necessary for autonomous motoring.

Sensors are integrated with the bodywork of the ET7.

Integrated sensors

The 5098 mm long ET7 breaks the norm by integrating high-performance sensors naturally into the body. Inside, it has an interpretation of the ‘second living room’ concept. This provides a refined and cozy mobile living space. Frameless soft-closing doors make for easy and quite entry and exit.

First application of renewable rattan

The ET7 also marks the first application of Karuun renewable rattan on a production model for a green and natural experience. The standard massage seats with heating and ventilation offer a reassuring and comfortable experience for every passenger.

NIO’s interior designers have already moved to a second-generation smart cockpit for the ET7. This has enhanced mobile connectivity and communication capability enabled by the third Generation Qualcomm Snapdragon Automotive Cockpit Platform.

The new 12.8-inch AMOLED centre display has greatly improved resolution and contrast, while NOMI, the world’s first in-car AI system, continues to evolve. The 7.1.4 immersive sound system has no less than 23 speakers and 1,000W total output.

0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds

Powering the ET7 is a 180-kW electric motor in the front and a 300-kW induction motor at the rear. The combined output is rated at 480 kW with peak torque at 850 Nm. This gives a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds while braking from 100 km/h is claimed to be within 33.5 metres.

With a drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd and the application of the second-generation high efficiency electric drive platform with silicon carbide power module, the energy efficiency is further improved. The 70-kWh battery pack has enough energy for a claimed range of over 500 kms; customers can also opt for a 100-kWh battery pack to extend this range to over 700 kms. Additionally, NIO will offer a new 150-kWh battery pack which will stretch the range to over 1,000 kms.

The ET7 is designed to be able to achieve 5 stars in both China and Euro NCAP assessments. Its body structure, featuring an ultra high strength steel aluminium hybrid body, has high torsional stiffness.

In China, the ET7 has a pre-subsidy price starting from RMB 448,000 (about RM280,000). Deliveries are expected to start during the first quarter of 2022.

NIO already sells a range of electric vehicles and has been participating in the Formula E championship.

To know more, visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
.


Ford to unveil all-electric F-150 Lightning pick-up truck next week

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

The Ford F-Series pick-up truck has been America’s best-selling vehicle since the 1970s, and though it is hardly seen outside North America, it has also been among the bestselling vehicles in the world due to the sheer numbers with over 1 million sold in 2018.

The success of the F-Series can be attributed to many decades of experience in making such vehicles. As far back as 1917, Henry Ford produced the Model TT which would be the first pick-up truck although it was essentially a Model T with a truck bed attached behind.

1917 Model TT was the granddaddy of today’s Ford pick-up trucks like the F-Series and Ranger.

‘Serious capable, purpose-built tool’

Just over a hundred years later, as the electric era dawns, Ford will offer a fully-electric F-Series model which it says ‘will be a seriously capable, purpose-built tool for serious truck customers. Besides new technology, the electric F-150 Lightning (as it will be known) will also be able to serve as a mobile power generator. It will be able to supply electricity at campsites or construction sites, or even disaster-struck areas.

Prototypes have been undergoing tens of thousands of hours of torture testing and targeting millions of kilometres of driving – simulated, laboratory and real-world. The dual electric motor powertrain will deliver more horsepower and torque than any F-150 available today, which means faster acceleration than what F-Series owners have been used to.

Lower operating and running costs

F-Series truck powertrains typically have large displacements – even the smallest has been 2.7 litres – and that has obviously meant high fuel consumption. With the F-150 Lighting which offers higher performance, including strong towing capability, there will be no such consumption penalty at all. Furthermore, Ford claims that it will have the lowest expected lifetime total cost of operation among F-Series trucks with less maintenance than a typical petrol engine.

“Every so often, a new vehicle comes along that disrupts the status quo and changes the game… Model T, Mustang, Prius, Model 3. Now comes the F-150 Lightning,” said Ford President & CEO, Jim Farley. “America’s favourite vehicle for nearly half a century is going digital and fully electric. F-150 Lightning can power your home during an outage; it’s even quicker than the original F-150 Lightning performance truck; and it will constantly improve through over-the-air updates.”

The new F-150 Lightning will be unveiled at Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn on the night of May 19 (morning of May 20 in Malaysia) and the event will be broadcast live online.

An earlier Ford pick-up EV

While the F-150 Lightning is a significant new development, it is not Ford’s first electric pick-up. Back in the late 1990s, when the company had brief burst of EV activity, it engineered a Ranger to be powered by electric motors. The battery packs were initially heavy lead-acid types and then switched to nickel-metal hydride, and factory testing showed that a range of up to 132 kms was possible.

Between 1998 and 2002, Ford produced a Ranger EV which was leased for fleet customers.

The Ranger EV was produced between 1998 and 2002 and was leased instead of sold. As interest in EVs faded, Ford didn’t make plans to follow up on the Ranger EV and instead focussed on developing EcoBoost technology for combustion engines.

To know more about today’s Ranger, visit
www.sdacford.com.my
.

Ford wins both 2021 Green Car of the Year and Green Truck of the Year Awards


More details about the all-new Perodua D55L Ativa – to be launched on March 3

Perodua will launch its all-new SUV a week from today,
on March 3
. Unlike all is other launches, this one will not be done in a public setting with lots of people. Due to the ongoing restrictions of the Movement Control Order (MCO), the Malaysian carmaker will launch the new model online, just as many other companies have done. It is very conscious of its responsibility to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and even today’s media preview was conducted with very strict conditions.

While we still cannot show any pictures of the actual vehicle, we have additional information which can give you a better idea, and which may even persuade you to quickly place a booking for the D55L, as it is being referred to, although it is already known that the model will be called the Ativa.

Perodua is presenting the Ativa as its most advanced model to date, and it certainly does seem that way where technology and safety are concerned, with the typical excellent value-for-money proposition that the brand has always given customers. The actual prices are still not released but will be between RM62,500 and RM73,400 (excluding insurance), with a choice of three variants – X, H and AV.

So here’s a quick overview of what to expect in the new Ativa. Please note that all images are of the Daihatsu Rocky or Toyota Raize, and the Perodua Ativa will have differences in some areas as well as trim colours and materials.

DNGA

We already know that the Ativa is adapted from the Daihatsu Rocky/Toyota Raize models sold in Japan (which went on sale at the end of 2019). This means that the Ativa will also have the newly developed Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that encompasses not just the platform but also many other structural aspects of the vehicle.

It is unlikely that Perodua will alter it to be Perodua New Global Architecture; after all, even Toyota makes reference to DNGA for its model. The fact that Perodua is getting DNGA reflects the closer cooperation that exists between the carmaker and its technical partner and shareholder, Daihatsu Motor. DNGA is fairly new technology and in the past, Perodua didn’t have access to the very latest technologies. But then again, it was still a ‘student’, diligently learning to be a carmaker, and it has graduated and can now be provided with more advanced products.

DNGA, like TNGA – Toyota’s New Global Architecture – used for many of Daihatsu’s latest models, provides flexibility for the designers and engineers to optimize designs for different types of compact vehicles. It starts with a highly rigid platform for enhanced handling, stability and comfort.

The optimized structure is constructed with reinforced underfloor tunnel parts and crossmembers. Besides resin for certain panels, high tensile steel is used in many areas to save weight without losing strength. Comprehensive development of the powertrain and suspension provide optimum balance and efficient space utilisation of the enlarged footprint.

Turbocharged engine with CVT

Compact cars with small engines have been Daihatsu’s speciality which it has shared with Perodua. In fact, back in the 1970s, Daihatsu came out with a 1-litre 3-cylinder engine in its Charade which was innovative. Now, for the Ativa, the 1-litre 1KR-VET 3-cylinder engine is being used with a turbocharger, which is in keeping with global downsizing trends. And in case you are not aware, the annual roadtax is just RM20.

This is Perodua’s first turbocharged engine and the output figures revealed are 98 ps/140 Nm, which is plenty for a vehicle that won’t be too heavy. So expect zippy performance – which you don’t always get with a SUV.

The Ativa’s 1-litre turbocharged engine and Direct-Shift CVT (right)

The engine will be coupled to a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), also a first for Perodua. CVTs help to achieve better fuel economy. The one for the Ativa – called a Direct-Shift CVT – is a fairly new development with reduced mechanical loss, a wider gear range, and improved shift tracking.

There are 7 virtual ratios which will be selected smoothly and fuel consumption is claimed to be 18.9 kms/litre with the higher transmission efficiency. The good fuel efficiency means the fuel tank can be smaller and its volume is 36 litres.

How big?

We don’t have the dimensions of the Ativa but those of the Daihatsu Rocky should be close enough. The overall length of 3995 mm means it is 440 mm shorter than the Aruz, and it is also shorter than the popular Honda HR-V. The wheelbase is 2525 mm, also less than the Aruz. The 1695 mm overall width is the same as the Aruz. With 17-inch wheels, the overall height should be around 1620 mm or 85 mm lower than the Aruz.

The boot space will be variable, of course, with 369 litres at least. The Aruz would offer more but it depends on whether the third row is used, in which case it would be less.

Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 3.0

Within just a few years, the ASA system has gone from first generation to third generation, which will be offered with the top variant of the Ativa. All variants, however, get the basic ASA suite with Pre-Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking (with detection of bicycles and motorcycles), Departure Alert (to let the driver know when the car ahead has moved off), Pedal Misoperation Control (preventing accident application of excessive power when starting off), and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.

The top variant has ASA 3.0 which includes additional driver assistance systems that complement the ASA system. The Lane Departure Warning will include a  Lane Keep Control function, while a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) will alert the driver if there is another vehicle in the blind spot behind. Reversing out of a parking bay will also be safer with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which detects vehicles coming from either side.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (left) and Adaptive Cruise Control (right).

Finally, there’s Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) which adjust the cruising speed to maintain a safe gap. This gives the Ativa a semi-autonomous capability as the driver need not constantly monitor the distance and adjust the speed manually (although attention is still needed. It will certainly help to reduce fatigue on long journeys along the highway.

Higher safety standards

All variants will have 6 airbags, the additional ones (besides the two at the front) covering the side windows when there is an impact from the side. The side curtain airbags can also help to prevent ejection of occupants during violent accidents.

While it is nice to have all-wheel drive for better stability and grip, Vehicle Stability Control (available in all variants) can also provide the same thing in most situations. It doesn’t mean you can go faster around corners but it will prove valuable if there is a skid which can cause a dangerous spin as the system will react with corrective measures.

The Ativa also comes with intelligent LED headlamp systems. For the lowest-priced variant, there is an Auto High Beam function which will automatically switch to low beam if an oncoming vehicle is detected. The driver doesn’t have to do anything and can give full attention to looking ahead.

For the middle and top variable, there are adaptive headlamps and this is rare even in more expensive cars. We don’t know how Perodua has been able to offer this so soon as such advanced technology usually takes a while to trickle down. The adaptive headlamps can provide optimised illumination without causing glare. The lighting areas are intelligently spread (as shown in the graphic above) so that they will not shine into the eyes of an oncoming driver, even while on high beam.

With the strong structure and such an extensive list of standard safety equipment, we would not be surprised if the Ativa easily scores the maximum of 5 stars in ASEAN NCAP’s evaluations.

“True to our aim to continually bring more and more advanced technology to the masses, the Perodua D55L AV is Malaysia’s most affordable Level 2 Autonomous vehicle, bringing state-of-the-art safety and convenience to a wider audience,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

“This is the first model under the
 Perodua Smart Build
 blueprint
, spearheading breakthroughs for Perodua in style, safety, technology, equipment levels and value,” he added.

If you want to be among the first to own an Ativa, you can make a booking at any Perodua showroom nationwide. The locations can be found at
www.perodua.com.my
.


Mercedes V-Class arrives in Malaysia

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has officially announced the availability of the third generation V-Class six-seater people-carrier in Malaysia earlier this week.

Available in two variants (V 220 d and V 220 d Avantgarde), the V-Class is powered by Mercedes’ 2.1- litre turbodiesel engine that is capable of producing 163 hp and 380 Nm. The engine is coupled with a seven-speed 7G-Tronic automatic transmission.

While standard features include automatic halogen reflector headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a single sliding door on the driver’s side, Audio 20 infotainment system, single-zone auto air-con, a 5.5-inch TFT LCD colour multi-info display, and Piano Black trim, the Avantgarde variant gets LED lights, a powered tailgate a partitioned load bay, chrome accents, and two sliding doors.

The Avantgarde model also features leather upholstery, which is complemented by dark brown ash wood-look trim, Nappa leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and gear lever, as well as ambient interior lighting, along with Agility Control suspension with selective damping.

Standard safety kit includes six airbags, stability control, hill-start assist, Attention Assist and Crosswind Assist.

The new V-Class is available for order at all authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, with its price starting from RM 434, 888 (OTR without Insurance).


Behind The Scenes at Jaguar’s new Design Studio

The new Jaguar Design Studio at the company’s redeveloped Design and Engineering Centre in the UK lay claim to being the most technologically advanced design studio in the world. Built around a ‘Heart Space’, it puts people at the centre of the design journey, supporting a seamless workflow between creative and engineering teams.

How Jaguar achieves its design leadership has always been a closely guarded secret with work happening behind closed doors. But with Jaguar Design moving into this new purpose-built studio, a unique insight has been into the entire process of creating new models.

Across 6 stages of the design journey, the Exterior and Interior teams collaborate throughout a well-defined process that can move from inspirational first sketch to finished car in around 4 years. From start to finish, each project is overseen by a programme management team that ensures integration with all business functions at each of the 6 stages: Sketching – Clay Sculpting – Digitalisation – Colour and Materials – Design Technical – Model Manufacture.

Sketching done typically 4 years before reveal

Jaguar designers never stop sketching. Pen, pencil or tablet, the studio team is constantly generating new interior and exterior ideas for future products. Hundreds of sketches are produced each day. The design process for a future Jaguar starts with an internal competition. Designers – from across the studio – are tasked with producing their best sketches and creative ideas before entries are gradually whittled down through shortlist reviews.

On each project, up to 8 exterior key sketches will be taken through to the next stage, each demonstrating a different theme and approach to convey their own unique blend of Jaguar creativity and innovation. Computer-Aided Surfacing (CAS) specialists then create a digital version of the initial renders. This data is then used to accurately mill the clay models.

In the new Jaguar Design Studio, the teams can go from a sketch to a full-size clay model in only 2 weeks. Moving quickly into a physical 3-dimensional model is very important, because Jaguar Design has always had proportion and sculpture at its heart.

The designers who sketch the ‘winning’ initial ideas stay with the project from the first sketch to the production car, ensuring the creative spark behind the original vision is maintained and refined throughout the process.

During the sketching stage, one design is selected as the ‘vision’ which is used by the design and engineering teams to outline the feasibility of the proposal, its planned dimensions, aerodynamic requirements and any regulatory conditions. These constraints are then fed back to the other design disciplines to help progress the ‘vision’.

Clay sculpting

Clay sculpting is the lifeblood of the design studio with the sketches and engineering data turned into physical assets at this stage. An expert team of 46 sculptors, ranging from long-term employees to new talent coming through apprenticeships, add the human touch – quite literally – to bring the sketches to life.

The 6 to 8 projects that have been brought forward from the sketching phase, including the ‘vision’ proposal, have clay models created. Each of the designers is given half of a full-size exterior and is paired up with a clay team to bring their vision to reality. One sculptor will focus on the front, two on the side and another on the rear, though all sculptors are capable of working on any aspect of an exterior design. Following review, three different themes will be continued into a full clay with one final design signed off for further refinements to be made. Alongside the exterior models, individual parts like seats and steering wheels, and even full-size interiors, are also sculpted from clay.

Each full-scale clay model comprises an aluminium chassis, foam core and, finally, up to 90 mm of clay. The only part that is ‘real’ at this stage are the wheels. The clay is milled by machine using data from the CAS team before being ‘slicked’ and refined by the clay sculptors – this process can take as little as 2 weeks. Using carbonfibre and sprung steel splines, the tools used to precisely shape the clay, the team handcraft each clay to perfect their designs.

As designs are perfected, the clay models can be wrapped and painted to bring them to life. Jaguar Design utilises Virtual Reality to stitch a real-life 3D clay interior model into a digital world so designers and ergonomics experts can experience the look and feel simultaneously. On both exterior and interior clays, 3D rapid printed parts can be produced to help bring some of the beautiful details to life quickly and at an early stage.

Digitalisation throughout the design process

Digitalisation plays a pivotal role in Jaguar Design, and is integrated to every stage of the process from sketching through to launch animations. From the early conceptual stage, the Computer-Aided Surfacing (CAS) team convert the design sketches into digital 3D models, gradually evolving the designs as engineering and packaging data is released by the Design Technical team. This data is then used to create the clay models with real world refinements then scanned back into the CAS team for further mathematical adjustments. The CAS team then exports the surface data ready for the model to go into production.

The Jaguar Design Studio also has an in-house Design Visualisation and Animation (DVA) team, made up of experts from the world of television, film, advertising and gaming. These specialists work closely with designers and data teams to animate the 3D models into immersive films that help bring the design concepts to life in real-world environments.

Colour and materials

The car design process extends beyond exterior and interior appearance, with tactility of materials vital to Jaguar Design. Sitting between the Interior and Exterior studio is the Colour and Materials team – a position that reflects its significance to both disciplines. Its role is focused on developing innovative new interior and exterior materials and finishes and is made up of experts from the world of automotive, fashion, jewellery and product design.

The team is involved throughout the design process – from sketching all the way to engineering –and continuously works to innovate and bring new, exciting and relevant design solutions into future vehicles. They touch every customer-facing surface to deliver a true Jaguar user experience.

At the heart of its work sits Jaguar’s interpretation of ‘Britishness’ – an overwhelmingly positive and differentiating brand attribute –  with the Colour and Materials team constantly evolving how this is woven into new vehicles. Individual members of the team hail from countries such as Sweden, Latvia, France and Italy, helping Jaguar to communicate what contemporary ‘Britishness’ means to customers across the world. ‘Britishness’ is a dynamic concept and Jaguar Design embraces the innovative elegance and merging of past and future crafts and technologies to give its vehicles their unique character.

Design technical

Design Technical looks at creative ways to deliver the team’s vision by developing design-enabling technologies and solutions from the very beginning of the process. This group of creative engineers sits at the centre of the design function to support the entire studio – helping to make even the most ambitious design a production reality.

The Advanced Design Technical (ADT) team work on whole vehicle layouts and architecture planning and form a key part of any project from the very outset. Their job is to make sure the designs are feasible, identifying physical and legislative challenges and finding creative solutions to them with the aim of making the transition from sketchpad to production a smooth one.

With the entire design function under one roof, within the same facility as the wider engineering team, the new studio is making the development process more fluid and organic at every step.

Model manufacture

Jaguar Design doesn’t just rely on clay sculpting to develop its vehicles; other full-scale models are created by the studio throughout the process. These interior and exterior models are used to evaluate size and proportion and are developed from initial concept sketches in the first six to 12 months.

The final model is the incredibly detailed Customer Design Reference Model – a full inside/outside driveable (low-speed) model created ahead of launch to showcase the vehicle before a full production version is available. It is built on a bespoke chassis with a body structure made up of a mix of carbon fibre and glass fibre, with fully functioning lamps, one-off machined aluminium wheels, and a fully trimmed interior complete with functioning displays.

“Jaguar has a unique heritage as a design-led brand and this will always to be a central pillar of our DNA. The new facility brings the entire design team together in one hugely creative space. We truly believe that inspiration comes from interaction and collaboration. Our studio is fitted with the latest technologies but, just as important, is the diversity of human expertise and our passion for Jaguar which helps us design the extraordinary,” said Julian Thomson, Jaguar’s Design Director.

Click here for other news and articles about Jaguar in PISTON.MY


Creator of McLaren F1 looking to build new supercar

Gordon Murray, the creator of the legendary McLaren F1 supercar, is currently hard at work designing something new that invokes the very traits that made the F1 such a success. Murray himself has announced that he is indeed working on a limited-run flagship vehicle that will utilize an innovative design language.

He also admitted that his new supercar will incorporate the same design and engineering principles that made the McLaren F1 an instant hit about 25 years ago. The car had an engine bay that was lined with gold, a three-seat cockpit layout and was constructed from lightweight materials.

“The new manufacturing business significantly expands the capabilities of our group of companies,” explained Professor Gordon Murray. “With our first new car, we will demonstrate a return to the design and engineering principles that have made the McLaren F1 such an icon.”

According to an article by
The Drive
, unlike the current crop of supercars, Murray’s creation won’t utilize heavy and complicated machinery and mechanicals, rather a more minimalist approach will be preferred. This is a similar philosophy to that which has served as the bedrock of Lotus Cars for decades.

This new supercar will be launched under Murray’s own car company called Gordon Murray Automotive. Vehicles built under this brand will be based on a new version of the company’s automotive product system called iStream. This platform can be used to manufacture low-volume vehicles for customers with deep pockets.

In depth details regarding performance figures are a bit sketchy at the moment but further details of the car will be released on Friday, 3rd November at ‘One Formula’ exhibition, celebrating 50 years of Gordon Murray car designs.


Hyundai Motor Group develops lightweight wearable robot to help workers

The increased automation, particularly the use of robots, is feared to reduce the number of humans needed to do work in factories. It has a lot of implications and companies are trying to find a balance in their workforce. However, humans are still needed for some types of assembly work, especially where it involves variations. Robots work more efficiently when the work is constantly similar (eg welding bodies) so customisation of specifications is harder to programme.

Therefore there will still be a need for humans in the factory and the dream of the former General Motors CEO, Roger Smith, of a factory with no humans at all, building cars non-stop all day long will likely remain just a dream for some time to come.

Long hours in difficult environments

Though the work humans will do will be suited for them physically and less dangerous, they may still spend long hours working in difficult environments. To reduce fatigue, the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has developed a Vest EXoskeleton (VEX) which is a wearable robot to assist them.

The VEX helps by imitating the movement of human joints to boost load support and mobility. The wearable vest the polycentric axis – combining multiple pivot points with multi-link muscular assistance – to function, eliminating the need for a battery.

Attached like a backpack

At 2.5 kgs, it weighs 22 – 42% less than competing products and is worn like a backpack. The worker places his or her arms through the shoulder straps of the vest, then fastens the chest and waist buckles. The back section can adjust in length by up to 18 cm to fit a variety of body sizes, while the degree of force assistance can be adjusted over 6 levels – up to as much as 5.5 kgf.

“VEX gives workers greater load support, mobility, and adaptability when operating in overhead environments,” said DongJin Hyun, Head of Robotics team of HMG. “Workers will also appreciate how light VEX is to wear and work with.”

The newly-developed product is targeted at production-line workers whose job is primarily overhead, such as those working on the underside of vehicles – fitting brake tubes, attaching exhaust systems, etc.

Already used in 2 US plants

The development of the VEX included a pilot program in two HMG plants in the USA. The trial was widely successful in assisting workers and boosting productivity and both plants have incorporated VEX systems in their production lines.

One of the two Hyundai Motor Group factories in the USA where the VEX is already assisting workers.

The Group is considering introducing the VEX in plants around the world. It is expected to go into commercial production in December and is projected to cost as much as 30% lower than existing products which usually costs around US$5,000 (about RM21,000).

Growing demand for wearable robots

According to the International Federation of Robotics, the wearable robotics industry is growing 14% annually, a rate which is accelerating. By 2021, approximately 630,000 commercial robots will be sold worldwide, with the greatest demand coming from the automotive sector. Recognizing the market trend, HMG is making active investments and strengthening its presence within the growing robotics industry by securing relevant technologies.

Click here for other news and articles about Hyundai on PISTON.MY


Ford opens new smart mobility centre in London

Ford Motor Company opened its Smart Mobility Innovation Office in London, with its President and CEO JIm Hackett officiating the launching ceremony. The team working at the facility will be in charge of near-term development of smart mobility technologies while focusing on the specific requirements of European cities.

It’s a prime location for the Smart Mobility team, which is headed by Sara-Jayne Williams. This is because it relatively easy for the team to access world-class digital companies, leading academic institutions, nimble start-ups, and existing partners.

This area is also home to Loughborough University, one of Ford’s  most significant U.K. university research partners. It’s advanced Propulsion Centre, has been responsible and supported Ford’s powertrain research, which includes hybrid technology.

Ford will continue to work on projects with the UK city in areas that will help improve air quality, ease congestion and broaden mobility. And thanks to the new facility, the Blue Oval can work together with partners to develop its plug-in hybrid Transit van that is due for trial later this year.

“London is not only one of Europe’s biggest mega-cities, it is also one of the most progressive in its openness to new ideas and new partners, as we work together to create smart vehicles for a smart world,” said Hackett.

“Here East is the perfect location for Ford’s European smart mobility hub with Plexal’s incredible talent pool and start-up diversity right on the doorstep,” he later added.

This new London office joins Ford’s other smart mobility centres in Dearborn and Palo Alto at handling the automakers projects as well as supplement Ford’s global network of research and innovation centres, including RIC Aachen, in Germany.


Why You Should Not Use Debit Cards To Pay For Parking

Scam operations by numerous fraudsters throughout the city are on the rise and according to Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, using debit cards to make payments at cashless parking lots seems neither reliable nor secure.

The use of debit cards might be easily manipulated using malware software, a program designed to damage, exploit, or otherwise disrupt a computer, including providing illegal access to specific data.

Ahmad Maslan said, “I agree with what was mentioned, so we have to continue to be careful, and from the figures I stated in the Dewan Rakyat regarding scam fraud in the country, almost 22,000 people have become victims and have lost around RM850 million.”

Throughout his report, Maslan did not mention what tactics are being used by scammers to obtain private information from one’s debit/credit card via cashless parking payment.

“That number is high and we hope that people will always be careful, especially using cards that can be accessed using special software for accounts,” he said.

The information is encrypted when a debit/credit card is tapped to make payments to authorized or registered businesses, allowing the embedded EMV chip to generate a dynamic code to finish the transaction.

Through a malware software, scammers/hackers are able to access a database to obtain sensitive information including passwords, account numbers, passwords, etc.

Though customers can file a complaint when an unusual transaction is made with their cards or freeze the account since every transaction is documented, this process can be tedious and requires a lot of documentation. Reports will also need to be filed with the police.

To avoid these problems, we recommend to use a secondary debit card with limited cash in the account or a Touch ‘n Go card to make contactless payments.


F1 (Round 12) – Highlights Of The 2019 Hungarian Grand Prix And Results

♦ As expected, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen had a thrilling battle throughout the 70-lap race. A tactical decision by the Mercedes-AMG team gave Hamilton a tyre advantage which allowed him to pass Verstappen in the final 3 laps and take the chequered flag. This year’s win is Hamilton’s seventh in the Hungarian GP.

♦ Although he was on the podium with Hamilton and Verstappen, Sebastian Vettel was not happy with the fact that he had finished over 1 minute behind the winner.

♦ Valtteri Bottas had a bad day; after having dropped to last when he had to pit to replace a damaged nose, he had to work very hard to move back up and managed 8
th
 place by the end of the race, one lap behind his team mate.

♦ McLaren has been improving steadily and collected points in each of the last 5 rounds. Carlos Sainz Jr now has a total of 58 points, 5 points behind Red Bull Racing’s Pierre Gasly so expect him to push harder and also extend the team’s lead over Toro Rosso.

♦ With 250 points after 12 races and 9 remaining on the calendar, it looks like Lewis Hamilton can look forward to another title.

Next rounds:

Belgian Grand Prix – September 1

Italian Grand Prix – September 8

Singapore Grand Prix – September 22

Russian Grand Prix – September 29


TGR: Toyota Gazoo Racing Hits Batu Kawan @ Penang 23-24 Feb 2019! [+Video]

We’re here folks! Season 2, Race 3 of the on-going Toyota Gazoo Racing Series is at Batu Kawan Stadium, and here’s the first footage of this weekend!

Swing by if you’re in the area, and stay tuned for more to come!


Digital Cockpit of new VW Golf 8 brings revolutionary new features to the driver

Volkswagen has launched the new 8
th
 generation Golf with digitisation as a key feature, most clearly demonstrated by the new Digital Cockpit. Though looking traditional at a glance, the dashboard is actually revolutionary and presents information in a clearer, neater way.

The Digital Cockpit, which will be standard across the range, includes the instrument cluster, an infotainment system, and a multifunction steering wheel. Together, these form the first functional level, in which virtually all of the displays and controls are digital.

Touch sliders enable quick and intuitive access to temperature and volume controls, while a touch island under the infotainment system also provides direct access to additional air conditioning functions, the assistance systems, and – depending on the equipment included – driving modes and parking assistants.

In a second touch island, the light and vision functions have also been repositioned and brought together: the light, along with the windscreen and rear window heating, is now operated using a digital panel arranged higher up on the dashboard to the left of the instruments, even further improving the brand’s characteristic straightforward drive experience.

Optional Innovision Cockpit

It’s possible to enhance the digital driver’s workplace even further; in combination with the 10-inch Discover Pro top navigation system, the Innovision Cockpit (which made its world debut in the third-generation Touareg) offers an even larger range of functions. On request, a windscreen head-up display will be added to create the ideal cockpit, with information such as speed, navigation information, etc. being projected into the driver’s field of vision.

This advanced functionality is also evident in the centre console and is now clearer than ever – particularly with the inclusion of the shift-by-wire gear knob for the automatic dual clutch gearbox (DSG).

The theme continues to flow across the new roof console, where operation has also been digitalised. To tilt and slide the panoramic sunroof, for example, requires just a swipe of the finger back or forward over a slider, opening and closing the transparent roof.

Intuitive operation

Intuitive operation in the Golf can also be supported by new, natural voice control on request. The system is simply activated by saying “
Hello Volkswage
n” or pressing the voice button on the steering wheel. The Golf reacts to intuitive voice commands such as “
Take me home
” (navigation) or “
I’m cold
” (automatic air conditioner).

The new digital microphones mean that not only is voice recognition and voice quality (for phone calls) perfect, but they can also locate the person who is speaking (driver or front passenger) and respond accordingly, for example by identifying which interior zone’s temperature needs adjusting.

Digitalisation opens up the opportunity for each driver to adapt the Golf exactly to their own taste. The customised settings can be saved in the vehicle and in the cloud, so they are still available even with a change of driver or vehicle. These settings include the Digital Cockpit and Innovision Cockpit displays, the seat position, settings for exterior mirrors and air conditioning system, the practically stepless control of the ambient lighting (up to 30 colours) and the Coming Home and Leaving Home functions.

2020 Volkswagen Golf Mk. 8 – first details and pictures!


Free 5-Star Service Check for Volkswagens

With the lifting of restrictions, especially the prohibition on inter-state travel, Malaysians are motoring again. As always, the vehicles should be in good condition to avoid being inconvenienced by breakdowns or worse, a system failure that could cause an accident.

As part of its VW Cares initiative, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is offering a 5-Star Service Check to all Volkswagen owners to ensure their vehicles are in good running condition. This is especially important if the vehicle was stationary in the past few months.

The 5-Star Service Check, available at all authorised Volkswagen service centres nationwide, is a comprehensive visual check conducted by the service advisor together with the customer to review and highlight potential wear and tear and identify any severe issue.

It’s free!

The areas inspected include the body and paint condition of the vehicle, lighting, brakes, windscreen and windows, wheels and tyres. The checks do not take long and owners do not have to pay anything.

Money-saving offers

Should any parts need to be changed, owners can enjoy savings while being assured of them being genuine Volkswagen parts or parts approved by Volkswagen. Some examples are batteries (20% off), tyres (up to 20% off), windscreen (5% discount), wiper blades (RM20 less per set),  brake pads (discount of RM50 a set), and brake discs (discount of RM50 a disc). These offers are available until December 31, 2020.

Whether you’re going on a short journey or a longer one, be sure your car is in good condition to avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown.

While at the service centre, owners can also get an approved fuel additive at RM40 than that the usual price. For a more thorough cleaning job inside the engine, VPCM recommends
Walnut Granulate Blasting
, a method that is approved by Volkswagen AG. The process removes carbon deposits quickly, safely and without weakening the metal parts.

Service appointments can be booked
online (click here)
 and for more information, visit
www.volkswagen.com.my/volkswagen-service/repair-and-service
.

Volkswagen owners can get more with VIP


New Acura RDX prototype to be revealed

Acura, Honda’s North American luxury sub-brand will be unveiling the new 2019 RDX prototype at the upcoming  2018 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The vehicle incorporates key design elements from the Acura Precision Concept and Acura Precision Cockpit.

Unlike its predecessor, the new RDX is designed and developed in the USA using the new  Acura-exclusive platform. It’s angular contours, wide haunches and commanding presence make for an extremely appealing crossover SUV. The menacing front fascia and large LED headlamps are a welcomed edition to the 2019 model year.

This third-generation RDX gets an all-new interior design, user interface and operating system built and designed from scratch. Though the exact details have yet to be revealed, we are guessing that it should feature the automaker’s suite of cutting edge tech featured in the rest of its premium vehicles.

Acura’s RDX is one of the best selling vehicles in the premium-entry SUV segment for the US market. This particular segment has been steadily growing with each passing year, and is on a path to unseat the dominance and desirability of premium sedans.


Full Conversion Of Maserati MC20 Into Mansory First Edition Now Available

While cars of the premium luxury brands already possess a measure of exclusivity, there are customers who want to make their car even more special, more personalized. After all, they are already paying a lot so why not go a bit further and make the car truly unique? The carmakers understand this and have divisions to cater for personalization and conversion requests of almost any nature as long as it does not affect safety.

Maserati, for example, has its Fuoriserie personalization program that allows a customer to make his or her vehicle one-of-a-kind. However, the personalization is typically related to materials and accessories which the carmaker may already have or which can be specifically fabricated. And, of course, there are colour choices that are ‘infinite’ and limited only by imagination.

The bodywork is often not changed much to maintain the original design and this is where specialists like Mansory provide customization that can give a sportier or bolder appearance. The latest example of the German company’s offering is for the
Maserati MC20
 where they can carry out a full conversion to a Mansory First Edition.

F
irst of additional derivatives
“Along with Ferrari, Maserati is without a doubt one of the greatest names in automotive history ever,” said Kourosh Mansory, CEO and founder of Mansory and Holding GmbH. “With the MC20, an outstanding basic vehicle has now come onto the market that almost imposes itself on the needs and wishes of our customers and at the same time offers many conversion options, so that our first creation “MANSORY FIRST EDITION” will be followed very soon by further derivatives – based on the MC20 and the derived spider.”

As with all complete conversions done by Mansory, the work includes lightweight components made of carbonfibre, a significant increase in performance, profound suspension modifications, elegantly forged sports rims and various interior modifications made of the finest leather and carbonfibre.

Aerodynamic improvements
The overall appearance is recognizable as the MC20 but Mansory adds striking, massively enlarged air intakes in the front apron to allow generous volumes of fresh cool air to blow through the high-performance radiators. There’s also a new, specially developed front lip which, in conjunction with the supplementary flaps, significantly improve the downforce on the front axle.

At the side, striking wheelarches made of full carbonfibre have been installed, a signature of Mansory. The doors made of the same material are partially painted display their technical functionality in the side view. Also finished in full carbonfibre is the area in front of the side cooling air intakes to the engine. A new full-carbonfibre cover allows plenty of air into the engine bay to help cool the mid-mounted V6 biturbo engine.

Completing the aerodynamic improvements is an impressive new rear wing and a completely newly developed double diffuser with central brake light increase downforce on the rear axle.

Nettuno engine output raised
Mansory also does what most personalization services of carmakers do not include: upgrading engine performance. The engineers have made extensive modifications to the standard 3-litre Nettuno engine to increase its output to 720 bhp/850 Nm from the 630 bhp/730 Nm of the stock powerplant.

This increase has been achieved mainly with new engine electronics and the in-house high-performance exhaust system. The increased performance data places the MC20 in the circle of super sportscars with a claimed top speed of 330 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h time of 2.7 seconds.

Besides substituting the standard suspension with newly developed and adapted components, there are also new FV.5 rims. These one-piece, newly designed and ultra-light forged rims in the dimensions 9.5 x 21 and 12 x 22 are fitted with high-performance tyres(255/30 R21 at the front, 335/25 R22 at the rear).

Personalisation flexibility inside
As with the exterior colours, the interior of the MC 20 Mansory First Edition can be personalized to any extent by the customer. The car in the pictures has an interior with 3 colour tones – yellow, white and black – with the national colours of Italy reflected in the form of a central stripe in the sports seats and the headliner. In the same way, the car itself is discreetly and centrally divided by a small painted stripe in green, white and red.

Mansory typically outfits interior with fine and glove-soft leather, and the highest standards of workmanship and attention to detail. This is evident in the white seat belts, which are accented with a yellow MANSORY logo. The entire footwell and the accompanying floormats are also in leather and colour-coordinated with the rest of the interior.

Wherever leather is not used (or is not intended to be used), the interior is selectively refined with carbonfibre. A Mansory sports leather steering wheel and several, precisely embroidered brand logos elegantly round off the fully comprehensive refinement in the interior.

2022 Maserati MC20 Cielo spyder

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 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Fully electric Skoda RE-X1 Kreisel rallycar homologated for Austrian Rally Championship

Complementing its electrification plans, Skoda is also starting development of a fully electric rallycar which will be used in FIA-sanctioned events. Based on a Fabia Rally2 evo bodyshell, the rallycar has been homologated by the Austrian Motorsport Federation which allows it to enter the Austrian Rally Championship from this month.

In partnership with Kreisel Electric

The project was initiated when Kreisel Electric, supplier of the mandatory hybrid technology of the generation 2022 World Rally Cars for the World Rally Championship (WRC), looked for partners to develop a fully electric rallycar. Skoda Motorsport saw this as an interesting opportunity, especially as it has the most successful car of the Rally2 category with more than 400 units sold.

Skoda Fabia Rally 2 evo rallycar in action at the Monte Carlo Rally earlier this year.

Mechanical elements similar to the Faboa Rally2 evo

The electric rallycar known as the RE-X1 Kreisel sits on an updated a FABIA Rally2 evo chassis fitted with Kreisel’s electric powertrain and innovative battery technology. The Kreisel Electric engineered e-motor delivers peak power of 260 kW (191 ps) and 600 Nm, compared to 157 ps/425 Nm of the current Fabia Rally2 evo with a standard 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The other mechanical elements are largely similar to the Fabia Rally2 evo rallycar with some modifications.

Some of the modifications include alterations to the suspension and to engineer the bodyshell floor to install the battery pack. The Kreisel high-performance lithium-ion 860V battery pack has a capacity of 52.5 kWh. For optimum performance, the battery block is mounted as low as possible in the chassis and liquid-cooled by Shell E-Fluids.

Kreisel lithium-ion battery pack architecture.

“The Skoda RE-X1 Kreisel is an exciting combination of traditional and future-orientated technology. We provided our best experience, based on developing already three generations of the rally-going Skoda Fabia,” said Michal Hrabanek, Head of Skoda Motorsport. “The rallycar offers all the set-up possibilities of the latest generation Skoda FABIA Rally2 evo, but with a fully electric powertrain and I really believe rally fans will find such a combination truly interesting.”

Development with FIA-sanctioned events in mind

The first chassis built by Skoda Motorsport is in asphalt spec. But Baumschlager Rallye & Racing, the project’s partner for the testing program and future competition activities, has already started to put the RE-X1 Kreisel through its paces on gravel as well.

Skoda Motorsport intends to develop the rallycar to be ready for future entries into FIA-sanctioned rallies. It is closely involved with Kreisel Electric, providing further know-how and technical consultation during the ongoing development process.

Classic Skoda models reimagined for the 21st century


Fuel Prices For April 4 – April 10, 2020


McLaren 720S Spider gets the NOVITEC N-LARGO treatment

NOVITEC, the German tuning and customising company, is well known for its widebody conversions apart from enhancements to many different models. Its latest offering is the N-LARGO, adapted from the McLaren 720S Spider and limited to just 15 units worldwide.

This widebody version, which is particularly light, makes generous use of carbonfibre with forged elements that give the open-top two-seater a particularly custom appearance. The company also developed tailor-made high-tech forged rims specifically for the enlarged wheel arches in cooperation with American wheel manufacturer Vossen. The staggered combination of 20-inch and 21-inch wheels on front and rear axles puts even more emphasis on the wedge shape of the sportscar.

Emotive design shaped in wind tunnel

The emotive design, shaped in the wind tunnel, was conceived in cooperation with German designer Vittorio Strosek. Its width has increased by 6 cm at the front and by 13 cm at the rear. Together with the special rocker panels, the wider N-LARGO fenders at the front and rear give the supercar an hourglass shape.

The N-LARGO side components create a perfect transition between the wider fenders and route the airflow to the rear brake discs and calipers through their integrated air intakes. The NOVITEC air intakes behind the doors supply the engine bay with breathing and cooling air.

However, the conversion of the bodywork not only focused on an extravagant appearance but also on the optimization of the driving dynamics by means of efficient modifications to the aerodynamics. This includes, among other things, the redesigned bootlid with forged carbon insert at the front, the covers for the side mirrors, the lower strips on the rocker panels, the N-LARGO rear wing attachment for the stock retractable spoiler, and the air intakes in the rear end.

Upgraded McLaren engine

The McLaren twin-turbo 4-litre 8-cylinder engine has been tuned by NOVITEC to offer customers a choice of 3 different output levels. The most powerful level includes a NOVITEC RACE high-performance exhaust system and has modifications which add 86 bhp/108 Nm. This boosts maximum output to 806 bhp at a low 6700 rpm, while peak torque is bumped up to 878 Nm.

As a result, the N-LARGO rockets from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 2.7 seconds and reaches a speed of 200 km/h after just 7.5 seconds; with top speed increased to 346 km/h.

NOVITEC boosts the Ferrari 488 Pista’s performance even further


BMW M Joins The Super SUV Crowd With New XM PHEV

When BMW decided to start offering SUVs, it first made sure that the new models would have the driving dynamics that made people buy their ‘ultimate driving machines’. Engineered to be true BMWs, their vehicles are instead called Sport Activity Vehicles or SAVs.

It’s the same for BMW M, the high-performance division, when it made the decision to electrify. For a company like BMW M, which has built up a reputation producing cars with superlative performance, going electric meant that they had also to be able to offer the same kind of performance.

The first BMW M automobile designed for purely electric mobility from the outset was the new
iX M60
, launched at the beginning of this year. But that was just a start and now the company has come out with another electrified model – the XM.

Second original BMW M model
Coming in the 50th year of the brand, this is the first BMW M original since the M1 and it is the largest, most powerful model ever offered. It is powered by a newly developed plug-in M HYBRID drive system (PHEV) with a newly developed, classically high-revving 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 working with a 280 Nm electric motor to give a system output of 653 bhp/800 Nm. In the fourth quarter of next year, a Label Red version will be added to the model range which will generate a total output of up to 748 bhp/1,000 Nm.

Power flows to all 4 wheels through an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the driver can choose one of 3 operating modes to optimise performance in specific conditions. This include an ELECTRIC setting for cruising with just the electric motor in use at speeds of up to 140 km/h; the range in this model would be up to 88 kms, it is claimed.

The V8 engine already gives an energy-charged soundtrack which originates from its sports exhaust system. This system features electronically-controlled, continuously adjustable flaps and hexagonal dual tailpipes arranged one above the other for the first time on a BMW M model.

Additionally, there is also
BMW IconicSounds Electric
. developed in a collaboration between the BMW Group and film score composer Hans Zimmer to create a suitable ‘backing track’ during the electric motor’s power delivery. M-specific electric drive sound provides authentic feedback to every movement of the accelerator pedal. If the Sport or Sport Plus setting is selected while in HYBRID mode, a boost sound will underline the electrical assistance being provided to the combustion engine.

Typical M design elements
The design of the XM was previewed last November with the Concept XM, so it’s not really a surprise. There are also the M-typical design cues, with the huge BMW kidney grille having gold-coloured surrounds and continuous contour lighting. Besides the headlights being split into two separate units, the large air intakes are also defining features of the front end.

The expressive style of the exterior design continues inside the cabin. The cockpit has a generous feeling of space, with high-quality materials and extravagant design transforming the rear of the XM into an exclusive M Lounge. The sculptural headliner is quite unique with its 3-dimensional prism structure, photo mount-style border and 100 LED units for illumination.

BMW Live Cockpit Professional is standard for the XM, which brings with it an M-specific version of the latest-generation multi-sensory vehicle experience BMW iDrive. Based on BMW Operating System 8, it comprises a BMW Curved Display formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches.

The new display grouping and the ever-expanding capabilities of the Intelligent Personal Assistant mean the new iDrive has been deliberately geared towards touch operation and gesture control as well as dialogue using natural language. The iDrive Controller and multifunction buttons on the steering wheel are additionally joined in the standard specification roster by the Head-Up Display and gesture control.

Tuned for dynamism and also comfort
Under the cabin, the chassis has been engineered for the widest possible spectrum between dynamism and long-distance comfort. The settings of the sophisticated active systems can be customised to meet demands on varying types of roads, from urban driving to country roads to motorways.

The chassis design comprises a double-wishbone front axle and a 5-link rear axle with specially tuned kinematic and elastokinematic properties. The XM comes with standard adaptive M suspension Professional that includes electronically-controlled dampers and active roll stabilisation with 48V electric motors and Active Roll Control. It is also the first BMW M model to feature Integral Active Steering, also part of standard specification.

To complement its exceptionally high performance is the largest selection of driver assistance systems offered – either as standard or as an option – for any high-performance vehicle from BMW M. Besides the standard Driving Assistant suite, customers can also add the Driving Assistant Professional with features such as Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, traffic light recognition, automatic Speed Limit Assist and Active Navigation.

Made in the USA
Production of the XM will start at the BMW factory in Spartanburg, USA, in December 2022, with first deliveries starting in early 2023 in key markets such as the USA, China and the Middle East. Although the Spartanburg factory’s first product was a 318i passenger car, the 30-year old facility has been mainly associated with the SAV X models, starting with the X5 in 1999. To date, 6 million vehicles have been built at the factory.

50th Anniversary Of BMW M Celebrated In Malaysia With Huge Convoy


Ford Ranger’s Trail Turn Assist Makes It Easier To Take Tight Turns Off-Road (w/VIDEO)

Even though the new generation of the
Ford Ranger
 made its global debut at the end of 2021 (July 2022 in Malaysia), development work has not stopped to improve it. While the majority of new features and technologies have been introduced with it at launch, Ford still has a few more in the pipeline, it seems.

One of these is an innovative system which makes taking tight turns in off-road conditions much easier. Known as Trail Turn Assist, it will be available with certain Ranger variants, adding to the pick-up truck’s capabilities.

“If you’ve ever had to turn back on a track because the corner was too tight to man oeuvre around, then you’ll love Trail Turn Assist,” said David Grice, Chief Platform Engineer for the Ford Ranger.

“It’s a simple system but incredibly effective,” he explained. “By applying the brakes on the inside rear wheel and keeping the rest of the wheels turning, you’re effectively creating an anchor which the vehicle can pivot around.”

Trail Turn Assist can be engaged at the press of a button and helps owners negotiate tight bends on narrow tracks, reducing the turning radius by up to 25%. It’s designed to be used on loose surfaces at speeds under 19 km/h and can be used when the truck is engaged in either 4H or 4L and the rear differential is unlocked.

Picture yourself on a tropical adventure in the Great Barrier Reef, or an exquisite culinary experience in Italy, or a historical tour in Egypt. Come explore the world! Join the Monthly Travel Bonanza 2023! Spend a minimum of RM30 at participating BHPetrol stations and stand a chance to win great prizes every month! Exclusive for BHPetrol eCard app members only.

“Having been involved in durability testing of this system on some of the tightest and toughest tracks we could find, it proved itself time and again,” said Tim Postgate, Vehicle Integration Engineer, Ranger.

“Some of the turns we tried were so tight the support crew really struggled – but when using Trail Turn Assist, the Ranger made it look easy. It’s just another tool in the kit that makes Ranger so capable and fun off-road,” said Postgate.

To locate a showroom in Malaysia to view or test-drive the latest Ranger, visit
www.sdacford.com.my
.

Next-level Performance And Capability With The Next-Gen Ford Ranger

Click here
 for more Ranger videos at The Piston Show.


Maxis And BHPetrol Partner To Digitally Enhance Customer Experience

In order to enhance the consumer experience at their retail stations, Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd (BHPetrol) has chosen Maxis to be a part of the company’s extensive digitalization project.

In accordance with the collaboration, BHPetrol’s outdoor payment terminals at each fuel station and its Point of Sale systems at all of its retail stations in Peninsular Malaysia will be powered by SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) deployed by Maxis as a network provider.

Adaptable, scalable, and cost-effective converged connection solutions are provided by the networking technology known as SD-WAN, which also has built-in security features to guarantee end-to-end communication protection.

To date, Maxis’ SD-WAN has already been rolled out to more than 240 locations, with implementation at other stations expected to be completed by the end of the year.

“This important partnership enables Maxis to offer our unique capabilities and experience in providing next-generation networking technologies. We look forward to working together to support BHPetrol’s digital transformation efforts,” said Goh Seow Eng, Maxis’ Chief Executive Officer.

“This strategic partnership is aligned with our commitment to harness the power of digitalisation in accelerating our growth. We are confident that this partnership will enable us to foster greater innovation, improve operations, and elevate the overall customer experience at BHPetrol,” said Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer, BHPetrol.

The Retail of the Future experience that BHPetrol envision calls for a dependable, ultra-high-speed network can be provided by Maxis’ SD-WAN. Both businesses are investigating potential future opportunities to use Smart Retail technology, such as proximity payment, mobile wallet, and biometric authentication solutions.

In accordance with the partnership, Maxis and BHPetrol are providing limited-time cash incentives to users of Maxis and Hotlink through June 30, 2023. Users only need to download these discounts from the Maxis or Hotlink app and redeem them at participating BHPetrol stations to take advantage of them.


LOOKING BACK – The Aerodynamic Research Volkswagen which had a Cd of 0.15

For decades, car designers have understood that aerodynamics play a key role in a vehicle’s performance in more ways than one. The better the aerodynamics – usually referencing its coefficient of drag or Cd – the less wind resistance it has. This, in turn, can benefit fuel economy as less power is needed to achieve a desired speed, reduce wind noise and also enhance stability.

Over the years, various shapes have been conceived with the aim of lowering the Cd number as much as possible. The vehicles have looked strange in some examples but usually had typical features such as a sleek bodywork and sharp nose to ‘pierce’ through the air.

Few have been more radical than the Aerodynamic Research Volkswagen (ARVW) of 1980, a single-seat arrow that remains the most aerodynamic vehicle ever built with a VW badge. Sparked by the oil crises of the 1970s, the ARVW was meant to demonstrate how aerodynamics and lightweight vehicle construction could generate massive speeds from everyday power.

The first challenge was squeezing a driver, powertrain and four wheels into a body that could have the smallest profile possible. At just 84 cm tall and 110 cm wide, the ARVW’s shape was optimised for aerodynamic smoothness. Its wheels were hidden wheels and a smooth underbody allowed air to pass under the vehicle without turbulence. There were even moveable fins that helped keep it stable at high speeds.

The ARVW was built from an aluminium frame under a fibreglass-and-carbon body. Power came from a 2.4-litre turbocharged, inline-six engine which produced 177 bhp. Set right behind the driver, it powered the rear wheels via a chain drive. By using an onboard water tank that injected water into the turbocharger’s intake, the engine needed few cooling vents. The main cooling vent was positioned in the nose to let air flow smoothly over its radiator and exit on top of the vehicle.

The ARVW’s Cd was 0.15, a number that remains far sleeker than any production vehicle. In October 1980, a small team of Volkswagen engineers and a skilled driver went to the Nardo test track in Italy to demonstrate what the ARVW was capable of. In the first hour, the ARVW hit 355 km/h., eventually reaching 362 km/h, setting two world speed records in the process.

Volkswagen built 200 units of the XL1 for sale between 2013 and 2016.

The shape of the ARVW would later be referred to in the radical XL1. And as low drag coefficients provide sizable benefits to an electric vehicle’s range, advanced aerodynamics will play an essential role in Volkswagen’s the upcoming ID. electric vehicle family.

Volkswagen’s electric vehicles will use a 1-speed gearbox!


Summary of new vehicle sales and production for January 2021

Source: Monthly sales reports compiled by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA). The Total Industry Volumes shown for the month may be incomplete as some companies are unwilling to provide their sales data.

♦ New vehicle sales in the first month of the year were 32,829 units, 51% lower than for December 2020, and 24% lower than the same month in 2020.

♦ The decline was due to a few factors, among them the surge in purchases in December by those who did not want to miss out on the sales tax exemption. It was originally set to expire on December 31, 2020 but at the last moment, the government decided to allow an
extension until June 30, 2021
.

♦ The large number of sales in December would have exhausted the order bank for the following month on the one hand, and companies also ran low on stocks due to the high demand at the end of the year. For a change, some customers did not choose to defer their delivery date to the new year.

♦ Difficulties in deliveries due to dealers being unable to get stocks also kept the Total Industry Volume (TIV) down. The disruption caused by the ongoing MCO affected some suppliers of parts or systems and without just one item, a car cannot be completed at the assembly plant.

♦ January sales were also impacted by the restrictions of the MCO which limited travel distance to 10 kms from home. However, many companies have established and publicised their ‘online showrooms’ which can at least enable buyers to start the purchase process. Some companies also offer to bring vehicle over for test-drives and even deliver newly registered vehicles to the doorstep using a dedicated transport service.

♦ Sales of new commercial vehicles were higher in January 2021 compared to a year earlier. Almost 4,000 vehicles (including pick-up trucks) were delivered whereas, in January 2020, 3,532 units were delivered.

♦ The MAA expects February sales to be even lower, given the short month and the ongoing MCO which affects businesses in various ways.

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 to know more about promotions at BHPetromart.


MINI Malaysia’s Add Independence campaign has offers for Countryman model

It’s our nation’s Merdeka again soon and to celebrate the 63
rd
 year of independence, MINI Malaysia has started its ‘Add Independence’ campaign. It consists of specially curated programmes which relate to the Countryman model, with different variants to choose from.

The campaign, which runs
till September 30, 2020
, has a range of attractive offers for selected and limited units while stocks last. Customers can enjoy interest-free H-P loans, monthly instalment plans starting from RM2,315, instalment support up to RM5,000, and cash rebates up to RM22,000.

Brand’s largest model

The Countryman is the brand’s largest model and now in its second generation. While it takes its name from the original model sold in the 1960s, it is classified as a crossover SUV. Compared to a 5-door MINI, it is 294 mm longer, 95 mm wider and 132 mm taller.

Its size provides generous cabin space and comfortable accommodation for 5 persons and their holiday or recreational gear. The low bootlid can serve as a picnic bench while also make for easier access into the cargo space which can be expanded up to 1,390 litres.

4 variants, 3 powertrain choices

MINI Malaysia offers four variants of the Countryman with three powertrain choices, one of which is a plug-in hybrid. The most powerful version with a 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine has claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h.

As would be expected of a car with the character of a MINI, customers have a variety of colours to choose from. Prices for the 2020 model year Countryman start from RM220,741, after deducting the sales tax (exemption applicable only till the end of this year).

More information and location of showrooms in Malaysia can be found at
www.mini.my
.

BMW and MINI owners can now enjoy Door-to-Door Service


Debit and Credit Card Usage For Public Transit In The Works

Public transportation users can now breathe a sigh of relief as the implementation of debit and credit cards are now in the works.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said this system is expected to be active in the next few months. He also mentioned that he has ordered all their agencies to adopt this open payment system.

LRT users now only have two options which is Touch ‘n Go or buying a token from the vending machine which if you ask me, is kind of outdated. For Touch ‘n Go to be around since 1997, with no major updates, it’s time the public get other payment options as the financial world is moving forward.

Everything now is being modernised and this debit card/credit card system is something that will make things easier for the public as they do not have to worry about topping up their Touch ‘n Go or waiting in line to buy a token.

For those hesitant to change, there’s good news as the credit and debit card system will complement the existing Touch ‘n Go system rather than have it replace the older system entirely.


Richard Hammond injured in horrific crash in Switzerland

Rirchard Hammond, the much loved The Grand Tour and former Top Gear host was recently involved in a serious accident while filming for the show’s second season in Switzerland. According to the show’s Facebook page, the crash took place after Hammond completed the Hemburg Hill Climb in a Rimac Concept One.

There are pictures circulating on social media showing a mangled wreck that appears to be the remains of some sort of supercar. Thankfully, Hammond sustained only minor injuries in the crash as reported by The Grand Tour. He came out of this hair-raising crash with only a fractured knee, which was quite lucky considering the circumstances.

After the crash, he was able to climb out the vehicle on his own before it burst into flames. Hammond was conscious and talking after the crash took place. He was flown by Air Ambulance to a Hospital in St. Gallen for examination where it was revealed that he had fractured his knee.

Hammond was alone in the car and thankfully, no one else was injured in this incident. The cause of the crash is still unknown and investigations are still under way to figure out what led to the horrific crash.

This isn’t the first time that the former Top Gear presenter was involved in such an incident. Over the years, he has been involved in a number of them with the most serious of the lot being in 2006. He was piloting an insanely fast dragster at the Top Gear track where he had a tyre blow out, which led to the car careening out of control off track, flipped over a few times and coming to rest on a patch of dirt.

We wish Richard a swift recovery and hope he will back in no time to continue filming the second season of The Grand Tour.


New Nissan Retail Concept Showroom Opens In Puchong

Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has announced the opening of a newly upgraded Nissan showroom in Puchong, Selangor.

The new showroom is open to Nissan customers and would-be customers to experience a new level of luxury, comfort and convenience.

The showroom will feature the entire range of Nissan cars for viewing while a “Star Car” will be prominently displayed. The recently released New Serena Hybrid J-IMPUL is the star car currently.

Up to six Nissan display models, a fleet of test drive vehicles, a designated new vehicle delivery area, a pleasant customer lounge with WiFi connectivity, and a kids’ section to amuse the little ones are all included in the recently updated showroom, which has a built-up area of 7,502 square feet.

The ETCM Nissan Puchong showroom is located at No 2G, Jalan Bandar Tiga, Pusat Bandar Baru, 47100 Puchong, Selangor and operates on Monday – Saturday, 9.00am – 7.00pm and Sunday/Public Holiday: 10.00am – 5.00pm.


F1 (Round 14) – Highlights Of The 2019  Italian Grand Prix And Results

♦ Second consecutive victory for 21-year old Charles Leclerc. He also gave Ferrari its first win on home ground after 9 years.

♦ Although under attack from both Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas at different stages of the race, Leclerc stayed cool and remained out of reach to take the chequered flag.

♦ Sebastian Vettel’s race was one he would want to forget. After losing control of his car at a chicane, he was involved in a collision with Racing Point’s Lance Stroll got him a 10-second penalty.

♦ Although Ferrari seems to be competitive enough, the improvements being made to their car can’t be fast enough to collect more wins before the season ends, especially if circuits are tight with lots of corners.

♦ Daniel Ricciardo’s fourth placing was the best for Renault since the carmaker returned to F1 in 2016.

♦ The McLaren team was fined 5,000 euros (about RM23,000) for an unsafe release that caused Sainz to retire from the race.

Next race in Singapore on September 22


Volvo’s new technology offers premium air quality inside the car

For those who want premium air quality in the premium cars they travel in, Volvo’s new Advanced Air Cleaner technology can satisfy that expectation. The technology is a world-first premium to provide Volvo drivers with clean and healthy air inside their cars and also clean the air of their cabin ahead of their journey.

While it may seem like the Swedish company is focusing on air cleanliness in view of global concerns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Volvo has given attention to air quality in the cabin for decades. It was among the early carmakers to provide pollen filters and of course, it has continuously developed technologies to ensure that its exhaust emissions from its engines are as clean as possible.

Volvo can’t do much about outside air quality (although it helps by ensuring its engine exhaust emissions are clean), but it can offer very clean air inside the car.

Measuring and cleaning

The system has a sensor that measures PM 2.5 levels inside the cabin, creating a feature not available in any other car currently on the market. Indicating the amount of fine particulate matter in the air, PM 2.5 is a widely used measure for air quality. Globally, many urban areas suffer from PM 2.5 values that exceed recommended levels by the World Health Organisation, underlining the need to minimize their impact.

In China, where PM 2.5 measurements and related information services are well established, Volvo drivers can also compare air quality inside the cabin to that outside the car.

Available on all 60-series and 90-series Volvo models based on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) since early this year, the Advanced Air Cleaner uses a synthetic fibre-based filter and ionization to clean the air. Up to 95% of all PM 2.5 particles can be removed with these two methods.

Volvo’s Advanced Air Cleaner can remove up to 95% of all PM 2.5 particles using a synthetic fibre-based filter and ionization.

Healthier air means safer driving

With the greater air filtration, air quality inside the car is much healthier, limiting the adverse health effects that are associated with air pollution and fine particulates. Cleaner air inside the car also helps make driving safer as healthy and fresh air can help boost driver concentration.

Stale air tends to make a driver sleepy too, which is why the air inside needs to be refreshed periodically by opening the windows or switching to fresh air mode for the ventilation system. However, as external air quality is not clean, this is where Volvo’s Advanced Air Cleaner technology is very useful to clean it as it enters the cabin.

Drivers of certain Volvo models can also use the Volvo On Call smartphone app (where available) to easily schedule an extra cleaning of the cabin air ahead of their journey. The app then tells drivers about the actual PM 2.5 levels inside the cabin after cleaning.

Volvo owners can also check on air quality in the cabin and then activate the cleaning process from their home or office.

“With our Advanced Air Cleaner technology, you can rest assured that the air you breathe inside your Volvo is cleaner and healthier,” said Anders Lofvendahl, Senior Technical Expert on Cabin Air Quality at Volvo Cars. “We believe that clean air is good for you, both from a health and from a safety perspective, and we will continue to push the envelope in this area.”

Apart from the Advanced Air Cleaner technology, Volvo Cars also works on creating a healthy environment inside its cars in other ways. Its engineers have a long-standing focus on removing emissions from organic substances in the car. They also aim to minimize the amount of allergy-causing materials from its interiors as well as generation and emission of odours from parts and materials used inside the cabin.

Geely Auto looks at ‘passenger safety’ from a different perspective, aims to make cars ‘healthier’