Ferrari 296 GTS – the top comes off the 296 GTB

Perhaps our climate is not the best for open-top motoring but in other places in the world, conditions are perfect for driving around with the top down and there’s enough demand for convertibles that manufacturers still offer them. The Ferrari 296 GTS is the latest convertible to join the list, offering those who want a topless version of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined PHEV a factory-built model.

Ferrari 296 GTB

As explained before with the report on the
296 GTB
, the engine is a new V6 unit and the first 6-cylinder engine installed on a road-going spider from Ferrari. While it’s not Ferrari’s first V6 (the first one was in the
1957 Dino 156 F2
), it does usher in a new V6 era for the company. Total system output from the 2992 cc turbocharged engine is 830 ps/740 Nm, of which 165 ps comes from the electric motor.

This is the first ever Ferrari spider with a rear-wheel drive-only PHEV architecture in which the engine is integrated with a rear-mounted electric motor. This is derived from
Ferrari Formula 1 racing cars
 and communication between the motor and engine is via the Transition Manager Actuator which allows them to run together efficiently and optimally.

Although the 296 GTS is about 70 kgs more than the 296 GTB, the performance claims are pretty much the same – 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h, while the range from the 7.45 kwh battery is said to be good for 25 kms running on electricity alone.

As with the
SF90 Stradale
, customers who require more extreme power and performance, especially if they are going to be on the track, can take the Assetto Fiorano package which includes lightweight features and aero modifications.

From a chassis perspective, at 2600 mm, the wheelbase is 50 mm shorter than previous Ferrari mid-rear-engined berlinettas to the benefit of the car’s dynamic agility. The 296 GTB’s chassis was redesigned and optimised for the 296 GTS to improve torsional rigidity and bending stiffness compared to previous spider applications. This was achieved to the tune of 50% in the case of the former and 8% in the case of the latter.

The styling of the 296 GTS has kept the clean and sophisticated lines of the 296 GTB. There was, of course, a clear focus on minimising the impact of any modifications on the exterior bodywork, always a challenge for a convertible variant. With the RHT stowed, the sleek silhouette remains very similar to that of the 296 GTB.

The need to stow the RHT (Retractable Hard Top) inside the engine compartment required the creation of a new tonneau cover design. While on the 296 GTB, the engine bay is completely horizontal and dominated by two flying buttresses in a nod to the 250 Le Mans, the 296 GTS’s tail is absolutely unique.

296 GTS with Assetto Fiorano package.

As is the case with the 296 GTB, a dominant feature of the car’s architecture is the signature ‘aero bridge’. The overall effect is of an extremely compact cabin effortlessly integrated with the wings and flanks. The buttress theme is further enhanced by contrasting sculpted extensions that frame the engine cover screen and integrate the novel fuel filler and battery charge covers, avoiding architectural disharmony.

The lightweight RHT takes 14 seconds to retract or deploy at speeds of up to 45km/h. The separation line between the car’s body and the roof is above the B post. As a result, the folding roof splits into two sections that fold flush over the front of the engine, thus maintaining the engine bay’s thermal dissipation characteristics and the balance of the overall design. This also allowed the designers to introduce a window in the rear section of the engine cover through which the new V6 is clearly visible.

The 296 GTS has several radical and innovative solutions with regard to aerodynamics which have turned the active aero paradigm, introduced from the 458 Speciale onwards, on its head. The car has an active device used not to manage drag but to generate extra downforce. The LaFerrari-inspired active spoiler integrated into the rear bumper allows the 296 GTS to generate a high level of rear downforce when required (up to 360 kgs at 250 km/h with the Assetto Fiorano package).

The aero development work done on the 296 GTS means that even in low-drag configuration the car can deliver more downforce than previous applications. In high-downforce configuration, there is an additional 100 kgs in downforce, thanks to the active spoiler.

The rear diffuser has a very clean, linear design with a central channel that makes it possible to modify the direction in which the airflow sucked along the underbody is released into the car’s wake. This contains the vertical expansion of the car’s wake and thus drag.

Turbulence in the cockpit area is something which convertibles cannot escape but thanks to modern solutions, this can be effectively reduced to make things comfortable for the occupants. For the 296 GTS, the geometry of the trim behind the headrests is optimised to channel as much of the air as possible towards the tonneau cover to reduce the amount of flow recirculating inside the cabin. Aerodynamic flaps have been integrated into the rear trim structure to reduce buffeting and increase comfort in open-top driving.

As with the 296 GTB, the 296 GTS’s cockpit was developed around the new concept of an entirely digital interface. From a formal perspective, when the engine is off, the onboard instruments go black for a minimalist look. Exclusive Italian leather trim to the seats and trim is further enhanced by the noble technical materials used on the functional components.

Ferrari has not announced how much the 296 GTS will cost, but it would certainly cost more than the 296 GTB which, in Malaysia, is
priced from RM1.228 million
.

Naza Italia introduces Ferrari 296 GTB PHEV, priced from RM1,228,000


PSA: Weekly Fuel Prices – 2nd to 8th Feb 2019: Good News For CNY!

Well there’s good news for all those travelling back to their hometowns for Chinese New Year! Petrol prices have dropped for the week of 2nd to 8th Feb 2019. Here are the prices of Petrol & Diesel this week:

RON 95 – RM1.93 per litre (down 5 sen)

RON 97 – RM2.23 per litre (down 5 sen)

Diesel – RM2.18 per litre (no change)

This weekly fuel price will be in effect until 8th Feb 2019.


Alfa Romeo Giulia picks up two awards

Alfa Romeo has won a couple of accolades at this year’s Car of the Year Awards organised by Evo Magazine UK. Two different variants of the Giulia took home these awards, which is no easy feat. The Quadrifoglio was crowned Supersaloon of the Year whole the Veloce was named Sports Saloon of the Year.

Alfa’s Quadrifoglio features the same elegant contours as the standard Giulia but is powered by a potent turbocharged V6 engine that produces 510bp and 600Nm of torque. The car can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 275km/h. It is the most powerful and expensive Giulia in the range, making it the complete package.

Sitting directly below it is the Veloce, which may not have the same brute power as the Quadrifoglio but compensates for that, with finesse and 50:50 weight distribution. Under its hood is a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that is coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels.

Andrew Tracey, Sales and Marketing Director for Alfa Romeo, said, “To have two models in the Alfa Romeo Giulia range recognized in evo’s Car of the Year 2017 is a huge achievement for Alfa Romeo and is testimony to the passion and dedication that went into building a beautiful sports saloon with outstanding performance and sector-first technology.”

Alfa Romeo has been at the top of its game these past few years, by consistently churning absolute stunners. Unlike the old days, its latest crop of cars have been able to complement their svelte looks with the power and handling that are worthy of the name. And with Alfa joining F1 next year, things should heat up in the industry, even more.


Tesla Lists 10 Supercharger Locations In Malaysia

If you don’t already know, the
Tesla model Y
 is already available for bookings ahead of Tesla’s official launch here in Malaysia on 20 July 2023.

But with Tesla models entering the Malaysian market, there have to be Tesla superchargers right?

Well, Tesla has just revealed a list of 10 available supercharger locations throughout Malaysia and here is the list:

Iskandar Puteri, Johor
Negeri Sembilan
Dengkil, Selangor
Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur
Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur
Two locations in Kuala Lumpur
Ipoh, Perak
Perai, Pulau Pinang

As of now, there are no superchargers listed for East Coast, Sabah and Sarawak. In V3/V4 configuration, a Tesla Supercharger can provide up to 250 kW of electricity. Older variants produce up to 150 kW less power. The incoming power source will be the charger’s ultimate limiting factor, regardless of the hardware capabilities it may have.

Through Tesla’s listing, it is also stated that it is still subject to change in location and time of introduction for this Tesla Supercharger.


Fuel Price Updates For June 30 – July 6, 2022


9th Generation of BMW iDrive System To Be Introduced During 2023

The UX or User Experience for the driver of today’s cars is a very important aspect that interior designers pay a lot of attention to. Not only does it make a difference to motoring pleasure but also has major influence on safety. With the rapid increase in electronic systems and graphic displays, the UX must be as efficient as possible and also intuitive so that it makes life easier, rather than confusing.

When BMW introduced the iDrive system some 20 years ago, it gave the driver a new way to manage what would come to be called the infotainment system on a display panel in the middle of the dashboard. Instead of having an array of switches and buttons on the dashboard to operate various functions, there was a rotary controller which worked somewhat like a computer mouse.

In fact, the iDrive approach adapted some elements of a computer screen and menu, and it was assumed that with computers being commonly used by most people, such an approach would provide a familiar touch. In concept, it was innovative but in execution, the first generation of the iDrive received criticisms in some areas and was even felt to be distracting.

Removing the many switches and knobs was one thing but the controller was too separated from the screen and the driver was expected to operate it without looking at it, while driving. Obviously, it was impractical to expect the driver to pull to the side each time he wanted to make some adjustment. In time, drivers did get used to operating the controller without looking at it.

Evolution of the iDrive controller

But then there was the problem of the menu structure which had too many layers. In some cases, the driver would have to click a few times to go through a few sub-menus. That meant looking at the screen – taking eyes off the road ahead which is a no-no when it comes to safe driving. Perhaps the idea worked in aircraft displays but an aircraft in the air is not in a space where it is likely to crash into another plane, unlike a car cruising along an autobahn.

Rea passengers also had their own iDrive controller on the armrest and a display screen as well.

BMW, of course, took in all the feedback and as it evolved through 8 generations, many of the early issues were eliminated. The input was also revised in various ways; in 2007, for example, supplementary programmable buttons were added on the dashboard to handle some functions that used to be done with the controller. New hardware with faster processing power and more memory also improved performance over time.

Now comes what would be considered the ninth generation of the iDrive system which will be gradually introduced in current models from this year. New features and improvements include a new home screen with clearly arranged functions, and an improved menu structure.

“Today, BMW iDrive is more than just a control and operating system – it’s a digital world of experience allowing human and car to interact with one another and exchange information,” said  Stephan Durach, Senior Vice-President BMW Group Connected Company Development. “We are continuously enhancing the associated user experience based on the latest available technology.  This translates into a broader offering of digital content for information and entertainment, shorter function update cycles, better information on charging points for electric vehicles and improved access to a host of specific online services.”

With its new graphical interface and optimized menu structure, the iDrive will in future focus even more squarely on interaction by using the touchscreen and natural language. The BMW Curved Display will continue to serve as the point of interaction for the multi-sensory iDrive experience.

The new iDrive turns the home screen on the BMW Curved Display into a permanently viewable user interface. Other individually configurable graphics can also be displayed here at all times as an alternative to the navigation system’s map view.

The new zero-layer principle means that all relevant functions and information are shown on a single level, making it possible to select a desired function without having to enter a sub-menu first. Instead, live widgets appear in a vertical arrangement on the driver’s side of the user interface. These function icons can be selected with a swipe of the finger and also configured individually.

The QuickSelect functionality makes it possible to directly select entertainment programmes, contact lists and vehicle settings, start interaction with the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant or activate other menu options, all by touch. And once the relevant settings have been chosen, a quick tap on the home icon at the lower edge of the display is all it takes to return to the home screen.

The operating concept for the new iDrive therefore aligns with user habits established with today’s consumer electronics devices. The new, flat menu structure makes activating functions and settings much faster and simpler. The digital content is – just like the hardware, in the form of the BMW Curved Display – designed to enhance the driver focus with the right information in the right place and at the right time.

To ensure intuitive interaction whilst driving, the graphical interface and menu structure feature a layout developed by BMW Group Design that is both consistent and characteristic of the brand. As a result, customers are promised a signature BMW user experience at all times.

The digital experience on the specific BMW Curved Display of the compact-class models with the new BMW Operating System 9, based on Android Open Source Project software, is being developed.

Millions of BMW Vehicles Worldwide To Get Remote Software Updates

Click here
 for more BMW videos at The Piston Show.


Nico Rosberg to join the action at Goodwood Festival of Speed

The annual Goodwood Festival of Speed will be taking place from June 29th to July 2nd and will play host to an awesome display of automobiles ranging from the vintage ones all the way up to the latest Formula 1 cars.

In Britain, it happens to be the only event outside the British Formula 1 Grand Prix where so many F1 cars and drivers can be seen in one place. This year, Reigning F1 World Champion, Nico Rosberg will be driving his 2014 Mercedes-Benz W05 F1 car at Goodwood with his replacement for this season, Valtteri Bottas, taking part just a day earlier with his Silver Arrows.

There will be a number of historic and new F1 cars on display from the likes of Ferrari, McLaren and Williams. Ferrari celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and will be displaying over twenty single-seater cars to commemorate the occasion. McLaren, Renault and Williams will be celebrating their 40th anniversary in Formula 1 with their own display of amazing F1 machines.

Representing Renault at the event will be current F1 driver Jolyon Palmer and reserve driver Sergey Sirotkin. And for Williams, Alan Jones and Damon Hill will be accompanying the Williams team in celebrating their 40th year in the sport.

In total, there will be more than 60 Formula 1 cars at the event, celebrating sevens decades of the sport.


F1/Round 4: Highlights and Provisional Results of 2022 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix

Cloudy conditions with the 60% possibility of rain was the forecast as the race was about to start. The damp starting grid filled up with 19 cars as Zhou GuanYu’s crash in the Sprint Race meant that the Alfa Romeo ORLEN driver would have to start from the pit lane.

Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen was ready this time, unlike yesterday when he lost out to Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc leaving the starting line. This time he got a great start and even his team mate Sergo Perez in third position slipped past Leclerc.  However, it was not good for the other Ferrari driven by Carlos Sainz – a bump with McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo had both cars in the gravel and Sainz could not get back out. To enable the marshals to recover the Ferrari, the Safety Car came out and took over the lead.

Mercedes-AMG’s George Russell did well to cut through from starting at 11th to place himself in 6th in the convoy behind the Safety Car. Lewis Hamilton managed to improve his 14th starting position to 12th in the running order.

Racing resumed from the fifth lap as the Safety Car left the track. Verstappen amd Perez shot forward and opened up the gap with McLaren’s Lando Norris who had managed to grab third place before the Safety Car came out. But right behind the McLaren driver was championship leader Leclerc who did not want to be delayed from getting to the front.

Aston Martin’s  Sebastian Vettel had also done well to move up 5 places and got past Alpine’s Fernando Alonso who was struggling after sustaining damage that took off his sidepod. When he finally got back to the pits, the engineer gave him the bad news that the damage was severe and he might have to retire.

On lap 8 of the 63-lap race, Leclerc finally got past Norris, much to the delight of the home crowd. But his third position was still some 6 seconds from Verstappen who was protected by his team mate.

As the track was drying out, the radar showed that rain could start to fall by lap 22, so decisions were being made to hang on to the intermediates for the time being.  The three frontrunners – Verstappen, Perez and Leclerc were well ahead of Norris who was 10 seconds behind the Ferrari and, for the time being, safe from Russell who was occupied with keeping Haas F1’s Kevin Magnussen from passing him.

By lap 15, Hamilton was in the mirrors of the Aston Martin of Lance Stroll and trying to get into 10th and start to think about points. Just ahead of the two was Scuderia Alphatauri’s Yuki Tsunoda who started to become involved in the tussle as well.

The first drive to come in was Ricciardo on lap 18 and his McLaren got medium tyres. He was followed by Pierre Gasly (Scuderia Alphatauri) and Alex Albon (Williams) who changed to the dry-weather tyres. By lap 21, all the cars had made their tyre changes. During his pit stop, Hamilton had contact with Alpine’s Esteban Ocon who was departing after his tyre change and it was deemed an unsafe release, for which the Stewards gave him a 5-second penalty.

The forecast changed to less risk of rain which meant that the medium tyres would have to last for another 39 laps. Ricciardo decided to come in again on lap 27 for slicks but he still had a lot of work ahead as he was way down in 18th. He would come in again another 4 laps later and try another set of tyres.

Perez was doing a good job of keeping Leclerc in third but the Ferrari driver was pushing hard. When told of the increasing efforts, Verstappen widened the gap to 9 seconds but by about halfway through the race, he would start to encounter traffic.

It seemed that Ricciardo, being way back, was a ‘tyre tester’ and from his experiences with the hard tyres, it was better to stick to the mediums for the rest of the race, so Norris would have to think about tyre management for another 25 laps.

By lap 40, Verstappen appeared behind Hamilton, down in 14th, and it must have been hard for the 7-time world champion to let the man he lost to last year pass. Once the Red Bull got past, Hamilton got back to trying to displace Gasly from 13th place. It was obvious that the Mercedes-AMG just did not have the speed to overtake the Scuderia Alphatauri.

With 13 laps to go, Verstappen had built up a comfortable lead of almost 14 seconds. Leclerc was still battling with Perez,  while Norris was also safe in 4th place and just had to make it to the end.

On lap 50, Leclerc came in and switched to soft tyres (which he was not 100% convinced was right) and on the very next lap, the two Red Bulls came in and did the same change. Verstappen had such a big gap that he easily returned to the lead as he rejoined the race.

Disaster struck for Leclerc on lap 54 and he spun and hit a barrier. He was fortunate to slide sideways into the barrier so the damage was less but still the front wing was damaged. He managed to get back to the pits but when he got back out, he was done in 8th. With 5 laps left, he had to try to improve his position but make sure he did finish as well.

As two laps remained, some teams started to alert their drivers of rain on some parts of the track, but for Verstappen, there were no worries of challenges before the end. Both Red Bulls were comfortably ahead as they crossed the finish line, with Norris joining them on the podium.

Behind Norris came Russell who had put in a strong effort in those closing laps to prevent Valtteri Bottas from taking fourth place. As for Leclerc, he could only reach up to 6th position, having managed to get past Yuki Tsunoda, by the time the race ended.

Miami, USA to have Formula 1 race in 2022


Porsche adds Taycan 4S to its first all-electric range of sportscars

It was only in September that Porsche’s first all-electric sportscar had its global debut – on 3 continents simultaneously – and now, the company is presenting the third version – the Taycan 4S.

Puristic exterior design

The clear, puristic design of the Taycan signals the beginning of a new era. At the same time, it retains the unmistakable Porsche design DNA. The sleek cabin, the drawn-in rear C-pillar and the pronounced shoulders of the wings result in a sharply emphasized rear, typical of the brand. There are also innovative elements such as the glass-effect Porsche logo, which has been integrated into the light bar at the rear.

Distinguishing features of the Taycan 4S compared with the Turbo and Turbo S include the aerodynamically optimized 19-inch Taycan S Aero wheels and the red-painted brake calipers. The front apron with new geometry, side sills and rear diffuser in black also give further visual differentiation. LED headlights including Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) are standard.

This version is available with two battery sizes; with the Performance Battery, up to 390 kW/530 ps and with the Performance Battery Plus, up to 420 kW/571 PS. Following the Taycan Turbo S and the Taycan Turbo, the Taycan 4S is therefore the new entry-level model in the series.

A single-deck Performance Battery with a total capacity of 79.2 kWh comes as standard. The two-deck Performance Battery Plus familiar from the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo is optionally available. The total capacity here is 93.4 kWh.

For both variants, the claimed 0 to 100 km/h time is 4.0 seconds. The top speed is 250 km/h in both cases but the claimed range is up to 407 kms with the Performance Battery and up to 463 kms with the Performance Battery Plus – the highest of the current Taycan range.

Dynamic performance

The permanently excited synchronous machine on the rear axle has an active length of 130 mm and is therefore exactly 80 mm shorter than the corresponding drive component on the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo. The pulse-controlled inverter used on the front axle in the Taycan 4S operates with up to 300 amps, and the inverter on the rear axle with up to 600 amps.

With two permanently excited synchronous machines on the front and rear axles – in other words, all-wheel drive – as well as a 2-speed transmission on the rear axle, the drive architecture comprises the same main technical highlights as the other versions.

The same also applies to the intelligent charging management and exemplary aerodynamics. With a Cd of 0.22, the aerodynamics makes a significant contribution to low energy consumption and thus long range.

Unique interior design

The cockpit also signals the start of a new era with its clear structure and completely new architecture. The free-standing, curved instrument cluster forms the highest point on the dashboard. This places a clear focus on the driver axis. A central 10.9-inch infotainment display and an optional passenger display are combined to form an integrated glass band in a black-panel look.

As standard, the Taycan 4S comes with a partial leather interior as well as front comfort seats with 8-way electrical adjustment. However, with the Taycan, Porsche also offers an entirely leather-free interior for the first time, for customers who have such a demand. Interiors made from innovative recycled materials underscore the sustainable concept of the electric sportscar.

Porsche uses a centrally networked control system for the Taycan chassis. The integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control analyses and synchronises all chassis systems in real time. As standard, the Taycan 4S features adaptive air suspension with three-chamber technology including electronic damper control PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management).

Porsche’s all-electric Taycan fully revealed, priced from RM632,000


BMW X7 Range Gets Sportier M Sport Version, Priced From RM728,800

The X7, BMW’s largest SAV model, gets an additional variant in the form of the X7 xDrive40i M Sport. Like the
xDrive40i Pure Excellence
 which has been on sale in Malaysia for over a year, the new variant with M Sport enhancements is also assembled locally at the Inokom complex in Kedah.

Priced at
RM728,800
 (without insurance), the X7 xDrive40i M Sport – as would be expected when ‘M is added – is a more performance-oriented version. The M Aerodynamics package which adds sportiness with a slightly rugged image for the imposing model. Certain design elements get more visual emphasis and presumably, aerodynamics are improved in some way.

Difference between the X7 with M Sport Package and the Pure Excellence version.

Additional equipment for the M Sport variant includes 22-inch 758 M Alloy wheels, M Sport brakes and Individual exterior line aluminium.

Inside, the X7 xDrive40i M Sport maintains the luxurious ambience that is expected of a flagship model. This included high-end features such as the Glass Application Crafted in the centre console, Harman Kardon Surround Sound and BMW Live Cockpit Professional.

Also specific to the M Sport version is fine wood trim in fineline black and a multi-functional M Sport leather steering wheel. The upholstery is the same luxurious Vernasca genuine leather which is available in three colours – Vernasca Cognac, Vernasca Coffee and Vernasca Black. A panoramic glass sunroof is also standard, giving the 7 occupants a bright airy feeling.

Under the bonnet is a 3-litre TwinScroll Turbocharged in-line 6-cylinder engine with an output of 340 bhp/450 Nm. This goes through an 8-Speed Steptronic Sports automatic transmission to be distributed variably to all four wheels by the xDrive system.

The X7 is equipped with a proactive suspension control system called Executive Drive Pro, an intuitive system that enhances driving dynamics without compromising ride comfort. There is also Integral Active Steering which is a more advanced form of Active Steering that combines rear axle steering. The rear axle steering helps to increase agility by turning the rear wheels slightly in a direction opposite to the front wheels (the angle depending on the speed).

As with every BMW, there is a high standard of active and passive safety. Notable systems include, BMW Laserlight, Driving Assist with Active Cruise Control and Start & Stop function, and a Parking Assistant Plus that uses a 360˚ camera.

Customers requiring financing can consider the plans offered by BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia which start from RM 8,800.00 a month (terms and conditions apply). The vehicle comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and free scheduled service programme. Owners also have access to the BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline and BMW Service Online.

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


Updated 2022 Mazda3, CX-3 and CX-30

Bermaz Motor has announced that the 2022 Mazda3, CX-3 and CX-30 models are now available in Malaysia. All three are imported from Mazda factories in Japan and come with feature upgrades, with a special versions of the Mazda3 and CX-30 also being offered.

Mazda3

The model that was developed from the
Kai concept car of 2017
 is available with 1.5-litre and 2-litre SKYACTIV engines and sedan as well as liftback bodystyles. For 2022, the models get improved connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto installed. This allows favourite apps from the smartphone to be interfaced with the infotainment system which is managed by an 8.8 touchscreen on the dashboard.

A special version known as the ‘Ignition Edition’ is also available but only for the 2-litre liftback variant. While the rest of the Mazda3 range has a choice of 7 colours, the Ignite Edition is only available in Polymetal Grey. The model also has distinctive gloss black door mirror covers and the 18-inch alloy wheels are finished in metallic black. Inside, the Ignite Edition has exclusive, burgundy-coloured leather upholstery which gives a classy touch.

The Ignite Edition comes with the latest i-Activsense active safety system with driver assistance features such as Front Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Attention Alert, and Driver Monitoring as well as Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS). For easier manoeuvring, especially in tight parking spaces, there is a 360
o
View Monitor to help the driver see the areas on all sides of the car.

The latest Mazda3 prices start from RM138,660 (excluding insurance) and until June 30, 2022, half of the sales tax applicable is exempted by the government.

 Mazda CX-3

The CX3 crossover SUV retains the same compact proportions that are ideal for the urban jungle. Under the skin is the SKYACTIV-vehicle Architecture which gives the CX-3 the same
jinba-ittai
 (the unity between ride and horse) character that every Mazda has. It is powered by a 2-litre 154 bhp/206 Nm SKYACTIV-G engine that is mated to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission sending power to the front wheels.

Updates for the 2022 model are wireless Apple Carplay along with Android Auto for smartphone connectivity and also a Qi Wireless Charger for compatible smartphones. The infotainment system has an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen with a bright clear display. Also added is a 360
o
View Monitor to give the driver a better idea of the surroundings. A seatbelt reminder is now installed for all seats, especially useful as rear passengers must also be belted up by law.

Bookings are now accepted with the price starting from RM131,929 (excluding insurance and with 50% sales tax until June 30, 2022). Customers can choose from 6 colours – Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Polymetal Gray, Deep Crystal Blue and the new Platinum Quartz Metallic.

Mazda CX-30

The CX-30 has received some updating with connectivity improvements that allow for smartphones to interface with the infotainment system using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 8.8-inch touchscreen functions as a command centre to make various selections and adjustments.

Additionally, there are two ‘Ignite Edition’ variants added with a choice of FWD or AWD. Like the Mazda3 Ignite Edition, they come with black door mirrors (auto-folding) and black 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior has burgundy-themed upholstery on the seats with black interior trim. Also includes is a 360
o
View Monitor which uses the central display.

The CX-30, which has i-Activsense, has scored full marks in Euro NCAP stringent evaluations. In fact, it was one of the models to score the highest-ever rating in the Adult Occupancy Protection assessment. It also performed impressively in the other categories such as Child Occupant Protection, Vulnerable Road User (pedestrian safety) and Safety Assist.

The latest CX-30 (High Spec upwards) has a full suite of i-Activsense features and Front Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Attention Alert with Driver Monitoring and Cruising & Traffic Support are also added for the ‘Ignite Edition’.

There are 7 colour choices for the CX-30 which is priced from RM145,759 (without insurance/50% sales tax until June 30, 2022).

All new Mazda vehicles (except for the BT-50 pick-up truck) come with a 5-year/100,000 km manufacturer’s warranty and during the first 5 years (or 100,000 kms) after registration, owners can enjoy free scheduled maintenance.

For more information, visit
www.mazda.com.my
.

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GWM Hosts 2023 Global Conference With Over 260 Distributor Representatives

On 19 April, GWM held their 2023 Global Conference in Shanghai themed “NEW GWM NEW ENERGY,” which was attended by more than 260 distributor representatives from over 60 countries and regions. President of GWM, Mu Feng provided a detailed presentation on the company’s global expansion and
new energy
 strategic plan based on the Forest Ecosystem.

During the conference, GWM announced their Intelligent NEV philosophy “Greener, Higher, and Safer” to the world. Moving forward, the company will implement the “ONE GWM” model and a global single-product strategy to conduct targeted differentiated planning in the global market and work with global partners to create more high-quality new energy products for customers.

The event also included a grand award ceremony to acknowledge distributor partners who helped to expand the GWM market. Vice President and Head of the international market at GWM, Parker Shi presented honorary awards to distributor partners who made significant achievements.

Additionally, GWM established partnerships with dozens of new distributors from global markets during the Global Business Partner Signing Ceremony. Before the ceremony, GWM invited hundreds of distributor representatives to visit their factory and R&D laboratory and attend the company’s press conference in Auto Shanghai, which gave them a more comprehensive understanding of the Forest  Ecosystem.

Distributors expressed recognition of GWM’s great vehicle manufacturing strength and intelligent new energy products. One new distributor partner shared, “Visiting GWM, I was able to experience their excellent new energy solutions, and I hope to bring new energy vehicles to more local customers as soon as possible.” Distributors from Australia, South Africa, and Brazil are optimistic about GWM’s future market performance.

Distributor representatives believe that GWM’s excellent quality, luxury features, and new energy advantages are gaining recognition and a good reputation among consumers. Cooperation with GWM will be an important step towards a better future for the automotive industry and new energy consumers worldwide. Currently, GWM is expanding their global sales and market layout. In 2022, the company’s overseas sales volume exceeded 170,000 units, hitting a record high with a year-on-year increase of 21.28%.

Since their export in 1997, GWM has had more than 700 overseas sales channels covering more than 170 countries and regions worldwide, with total sales of more than one million vehicles. In the future, GWM aims to implement the whole industrial chain overseas, including products, technologies, and services. The company also expects to strengthen the Forest Ecosystem to achieve a win-win result for all and jointly promote the transformation of GWM’s global new energy strategy with global distributor partners.


Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian 2020 Grand Prize winner receives his fully electric Nissan LEAF

In recent years, you would be reading a lot about electrification and how motorists in Europe are steadily switching to electric vehicles. The shift has yet to start in Malaysia but for 23-year old Haqiem Rusli, it has started. The young and talented singer, composer and actor from Selangor, took delivery of a new
 Nissan LEAF EV
 as the Grand Prize winner of the
Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian 2020
 (ABPBH).

The all-electric LEAF was presented by Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), the official vehicle sponsor for the event in collaboration with
Berita Harian
. Haqiem Rusli was announced the winner of
Bintang Paling Popular
 when he received 22,332,676 votes. He also won
Penyanyi Bintang Popular
 and
Lagu Paling Boom Popular
 with the song titled
‘Lembah Kesepian’
.

Haqiem Rusli being told about his new electric car by an ETCM representative.

During the presentation ceremony, ETCM’s Sales & Marketing Director, Christopher Tan said: “It was our pleasure to collaborate with
Anugerah Bintang Popular 2020 Berita Harian
 as this contest recognizes Malaysian artistes’ hard work and dedication in growing the local entertainment industry. We would like to congratulate Haqiem Rusli on his win and driving home the 100% electric Nissan LEAF. He now joins the EV family and will be part of our sustainability efforts in supporting the nation’s aspiration, as well as accelerate the global movement to become more environmental conscious towards a sustainable future.”

Global topseller in EV category

The LEAF, with a price from RM181,263 is in its second generation and has been the most widely sold electric vehicle in the world since the model line started in 2010. The latest generation has many advances which enable it to go further, with a range of up to 311 kms range on a full charge. And with 320 Nm of torque, it has strong acceleration as maximum torque is available from almost standstill, a characteristic of electric motors.

Like many of the latest Nissan models, the LEAF also has Nissan Intelligent Mobility safety technologies. These advanced driver-assist technologies include the e-Pedal, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning & Emergency Braking, and Intelligent Around View Monitor (360° camera).

The LEAF is available for viewing and testing at selected authorised Nissan showrooms around the country. To find out where they are, visit
www.nissan.com.my
.

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Nissan Leaf – “Simply Electrifying”


Accident scam in Kapar, Selangor – but dashcam saves motorist from being tricked (w/VIDEO)

UPDATE: Police have arrested a person believed to be the one in the video.

It looks like a stunt in a movie but this is in real life, and it took place in Kapar, Selangor. For the motorist who must have been shocked, it is very fortunate that he has installed a dashcam in his car which showed exactly what happened – the ‘victim’ jumped against his car smashing the windscreen.

Had there not been the camera, then it would be difficult to prove that this was a deliberate act (unless the guy was trying to commit suicide), which is how this scam works. The guy had pretended to cross the road and can be seen running
towards
 the car. But before the car could hit him and cause real injury, he jumped up to land on the bonnet which would have cushioned the impact. Then he slid off the bonnet and must have been lying on the road pretending to be in pain.

And then came the ‘witnesses’, according to the driver, who would have accused him of causing the accident and not seeing the man crossing the road. They would be hoping that the driver would be in shock and so intimidated that they could demand compensation from him. Of course, in such cases, whatever the circumstances, a police report will be needed and then if there is compensation to be made, it would be either the driver or his insurance company paying at a later time. However, such scammers count on fear and confusion letting them collect the money on the spot.

Fortunately for the motorist, he had the dashcam running and he said that when he wanted to wait for the police to come and he pointed to his dashcam, they ran off! Presumably even the injured guy was able to get up and run away.

https://www.piston.my/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ACCIDENT-SCAM-1.mp4

The police are aware of the video now circulating on social media, and they are investigating this case under Section 336 of the Penal Code for causing endangerment. They also say that there have been other similar cases in the area. The trick could have had serious consequences too – had the driver tried to avoid the man, he might have crashed into another vehicle or even someone else.

Such a scam is not new and happens in other countries too. There are also cases of cars deliberately ramming into other cars or creating a situation where they can accuse the innocent motorist of having caused the accident.

Invest in a dashcam

So it’s a good idea to have a dashcam in your vehicle these days. Many companies now offer dashcams (even rear ones) installed in the new vehicle and for those who want to buy one, the prices range from RM100 upwards. You don’t have to invest in a very expensive unit but do check the video quality because what is important is to be able to make out the numberplate on other vehicles. It should also be able to record with sufficient clarity at night.

Most motorists won’t need all the features available and have standard features such as automatically or manually locking the specific file right after an accident occurs so that it cannot be tampered with. The time and date are always visible but be sure to set them correctly otherwise a wrong time shown may render the recording invalid as evidence!

Most dashcams install easily with a mount that is attached to the windscreen either with a sucker pad or a strong adhesive sheet. The adhesive sheet is usually a better idea as the suction pad can sometimes deteriorate, especially if it is exposed to heat from sunshine for a long time.

A cable is usually provided with the package and while some units still use the cigarette lighter socket for power, newer ones can use a USB cable which can draw power from a USB port. Depending on the model, some units will switch off automatically when the engine is shut down but some power sockets remain ‘live’ as well so the dashcam may have to be manually switched off.

Still considered guilty even after two acquittals in ‘basikal lajak’ case?


Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Announces 35 Bespoke ‘Silver Ghost’ Editions [+Video]

Incredible. Simply incredible. In 1904, a pioneering motorist, brilliant entrepreneur and an intrepid engineer were united by a desire to succeed. Three years later, this success was recognised by the world’s media. An unfathomable challenge unprecedented of its time and legendary to this day, was completed by the Hon. Charles Rolls and Claude Johnson in Sir Henry Royce’s ‘Silver Ghost’.

The car achieved a non-stop long distance endurance record of 14,371 miles. This challenge was to shape automotive and luxury history, creating a world-renowned benchmark for excellence in the process. Check out the video…

In celebration of this extraordinary feat of engineering excellence, a special collection of model year 2018 Bespoke Ghosts will be created at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex. Thirty-five patrons of the marque will delight in a contemporary masterpiece of automotive history, as the Bespoke Collective of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars envisions the ‘Silver Ghost Collection’.

Speaking from the Home of Rolls-Royce,
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
, commented,
“The extraordinary accomplishments of our marque’s founding fathers are honoured by the creation of this elegant ‘Silver Ghost Collection’. The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective masterfully weave the rich narrative of the original ‘Silver Ghost’ into just 35 motor cars, creating a contemporary homage to the original motor car. Today, our craftspeople and master artisans continue this legacy of excellence, creating unique motor cars that define luxury.”

Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Collection Photo Gallery…

The FULL Details on the
Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Collection…

A collection of 35 Bespoke Ghosts to be created in homage to the 1907 ‘Silver Ghost’

British Assay Office specially produced AX201 and ‘RR’ Hallmarks to authenticate lineage of the collection

100% Pure Silver particles are infused into the hand-painted coachline

Copper detailing redolent of the ‘Silver Ghost’ engine bay is featured on the collar of the Spirit of Ecstasy

One motor car changed the course of automotive history
. Today, the legend is re-told as Rolls-Royce Motor Cars proudly announces the creation of a collection of 35 model year 2018 Rolls-Royce Ghosts, created in homage to the original Silver Ghost’s achievement.

In 1904, a pioneering motorist, a brilliant entrepreneur and an intrepid engineer were united by a desire to succeed. Three years later, this success was recognised by the world’s media. An unfathomable challenge unprecedented of its time and legendary to this day, was completed by The Hon. Charles Rolls and Claude Johnson in Sir Henry Royce’s ‘Silver Ghost’. The car achieved a non-stop long distance endurance record of 14,371 miles. This challenge was to shape automotive and luxury history, creating a world-renowned benchmark for excellence in the process.

It was the twelfth 40/50hp chassis, completed with a Barker & Co 4/5 seater touring body, commissioned by Claude Johnson, then Managing Director of Rolls-Royce Limited that was quickly recognised for its ability to demonstrate the marque’s prowess. The ethereally quiet running of this extraordinary automobile and the silver paint with silver fittings, led Johnson to select this very car for high-profile competitive trials, bestowing the name, ‘Silver Ghost
’
 upon it.

In celebration of this extraordinary feat of engineering excellence, a special collection of model year 2018 Bespoke Ghosts will be created at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex. Thirty-five patrons of the marque will delight in a contemporary masterpiece of automotive history, as the Bespoke Collective of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars envisions the ‘Silver Ghost Collection’.

Speaking from the Home of Rolls-Royce, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “The extraordinary accomplishments of our marque’s founding fathers are honoured by the creation of this elegant ‘Silver Ghost Collection’. The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective masterfully weave the rich narrative of the original ‘Silver Ghost’ into just 35 motor cars, creating a contemporary homage to the original motor car. Today, our craftspeople and master artisans continue this legacy of excellence, creating unique motor cars that define luxury.”

The Rolls-Royce ‘Silver Ghost Collection’

Today, a Rolls-Royce motor car is the ultimate luxury, steeped in narrative, veiled in rarity. A Rolls-Royce Collection Car showcases the extraordinary talents of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Design team; they are born collectables. These are future classics, destined for the lawns of the great international Concours d’Élégance.

Careful consideration has been paid to the defining features of this collection. References extoling the past are skilfully hand-crafted into Ghost’s interior and exterior, creating a contemporary homage which speaks as much of today’s great brand as the ‘Silver Ghost’ does of its day.

A solid sterling-silver Spirit of Ecstasy, the muse that has guided motor cars created by the marque since 1911, will hint at the pioneering heritage of this motor car’s forebear. A specially created Hallmark of AX201, the registration plate of the original ‘Silver Ghost’, will be marked on the base of each muse by the British Assay office, an honour reserved for few. Alongside the AX201 Hallmark, the Metal Fineness marks and the Assay Office town mark, a second unique ‘RR’ Hallmark, the eponymous badge of the marque, will act as the Sponsor’s Mark and authenticate its heritage.

A black-gold-plated collar enshrouds the base of the Spirit of Ecstasy, itself bearing the unique identity of this collection. An insert is crafted from hammered copper, in tribute to the copper extensively used in the engine bay of the original ‘Silver Ghost’. The copper, shaped, beaten and textured is engraved with the newly designed AX201 Hallmark.

Cassiopeia Silver, a complex Bespoke silver paint that incorporates both warm and cool tones, bathes the exterior of Ghost in a hue that echoes the silver paint of the original motor car. A Bespoke hand-painted coachline, applied by Rolls-Royce’s master coachline painter and taking eight hours to apply, is imbued with fine particles of 100% pure silver, adding to the provenance of this collection.

The face of the Model Year 2018 motor car is instantly recognisable as one of 35 in this collection. Black painted grille veins mimic the distinctive black grille of the ‘Silver Ghost’, while the fully-polished wheel centres encircled with ‘SILVER GHOST – SINCE 1907’ engraved on a Cassiopeia Silver backing, echo the fine details of the original car.

On opening the coach doors, accents of a specially created ‘Forest Green’ leather provide a nod to the original interior colour scheme. A newly designed silver tipped leather makes its Rolls-Royce debut, being incorporated onto the front and rear door panniers. Additionally, a silver onlay has been set into the open pore wood of the fascia and door cappings, flanking a solid silver ingot, hallmarked to allow reflection of this motor car’s great lineage.

Further reference to the ‘Silver Ghost’ is made via the collection’s clock, styled as an ingot of silver, engraved with ‘Silver Ghost Since 1907’ and once again marked with the distinguishing hallmarks of this collection. A peened solid silver encasement provides a decorative surface, reminiscent of the original dials of the ‘Silver Ghost’.

The tread plates proudly authenticate each motor car, engraved with the words ‘Silver Ghost Collection – One of Thirty-Five’, while the Rolls-Royce umbrellas, stowed in the doors of each motor car, are edged in a silver-coloured binding and have an open-pore Tudor Oak handle, with the end of the handle engraved to demonstrate its unique origins.

A Bespoke central console allows the patron to convey personal accoutrements, accommodating contemporary touring. A time-piece, sunglasses and accessories case is presented alongside a ‘Silver Ghost’ pen, shaped as the speedform of the car; clean, modern and streamlined.

As a finishing touch and to complete the collection, a rare and collectable Silver Ghost Hamper will continue Rolls-Royce’s romantic notion of the pinnacle in al fresco dining, proudly displaying a fusion of Bespoke Design with the finest craftsmanship.

2018 a new vintage year for Ghost

In addition to the beautiful Bespoke features enumerated above, the ‘Silver Ghost Collection’ also benefits from the several enhancements of the 2018 Rolls-Royce Ghost.

The most immediate of these is the bolder and more sculptured face of Ghost, reinforcing the decisive and dynamic character of Ghost. The grille frame is pushed further forward, producing a stronger sweep back into the front wings, to give the front of the car a more decisive character. More deeply set grille vanes underline the perception of power and dynamism, while the redesigned front bumper now features strongly horizontal lines. The perceived dynamism of the 2018 Ghost’s exterior is also enhanced by two completely new 21” wheel designs.

The owner’s enjoyment of Ghost’s cabin has also been enhanced through a suite of technological upgrades and acoustic advancements. Inspired by the acoustic engineering undertaken to make New Phantom ‘the most silent motor-car in the world’, the 2018 Ghost benefits from Rolls-Royce’s mantra to “take the best and make it better”, as it constantly strives for even the smallest improvements.

Additional sound dampening materials have been added to the doors, rear wings and luggage compartment. Working in combination with a new acoustic film fitted between the glass layers in the side and rear windows to further reduce noise entering the cabin, the results are most impressive.

A quieter cabin sets the stage for the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce multimedia entertainment system. A totally new multimedia interface and larger screens for the rear passengers are only the start of the entertainment upgrades offered by Ghost this year. To add to the effortless experience, the new system now responds to natural speech rather than predetermined commands, whilst navigation is improved by the Real Time Traffic Information for 32 countries.


Five unused and unregistered Bentley Mulsanne Limousines by Mulliner built in 2015 now offered for sale

Back in 2015, Bentley’s Mulliner division handbuilt a special version of the Mulsanne which was a fine example of the personalisation skills of Mulliner. The distinguished car, known as the Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner, was shown at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and was said to have had a customer. It was an impressive car and a modelmaker in Japan even made 1/18 diecast models of it for sale.

Apparently, an order was placed by the Bentley dealer in the United Arab Emirates for 5 limousines exactly as what was displayed in Geneva. Presumably the dealer was going to sell them but somehow, they remained unsold, unused and of course, never registered. Now those 5 limousines are being offered for sale, with delivery anywhere in the world available as required.

The Mulsanne Grand Limousine by Mulliner is an imposing car as it is 1 metre longer than the standard car which is by no means small either. It also has a raised roof to provide an additional 79 mm of headroom in the rear. The result is the longest manufacturer-built limousine in the world, its shape adapted to the length of its wheelbase.

Having already been built, the exterior finishes are Silver Frost over Moroccan Blue, Damson over Black Crystal, Onyx over Candy Red, Rubino Red over Light Gazelle and a single tone Black Sapphire. The stretched body sits on a chassis and suspension that were specially re-engineered by Bentley. Power comes from by Bentley’s iconic 6¾-litre twin turbo V8 engine with 512 ps/1,020 Nm.

The interiors are, of course, unique as well with the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. The cabin was designed around the need for 4 passenger seats of equal comfort. Their arrangement, which was inspired by luxury private aviation, includes two rear-facing seats, allowing passengers to talk face-to-face.

Emphasising the truly luxurious travelling experience, a bottle cooler with crystal flutes sits between the front-facing seats, with a beverage cabinet with bespoke crystal tumblers between the rear facing seats. Veneered, folding picnic tables allow the occupants to work comfortably on the move, with iPad docking and charging stations. Bentley craftsmanship is further evidenced by the three handmade dials, which display UK and local time, alongside the exterior temperature.

A custom heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system was designed and built by Bentley Mulliner, specifically for the Mulsanne Grand Limousine. With two discrete zones, it provides each of the four rear passengers control of their own micro-climates, without affecting the experience of their travelling companions.

Among the many additional bespoke digital features, the limousines are equipped with an intercom system for communication with the driver. The interior division between the front seats and the rear features electrochromic ‘smart glass’, the first time this technology has been implemented in a Bentley. At the touch of a button, the entire panel can be switched from transparent to opaque, for complete privacy.

The Mulsanne chapter in Bentley history ends


Continental and Sennheiser Revolutionize Vehicle Audio with Speakerless 3D immersive sound

Music and radio broadcasts have been available in cars for a long time and as automotive as well as audio technologies have progressed, the quality of reproduction has become better and better, comparable even to home audio systems. Developing and tuning audio systems for a car cabin is a specialized field and manufacturers usually collaborate with the best audio companies in the business.

Continental teamed up with audio specialist Sennheiser to develop a speakerless audio system for cars. The unique system fills the vehicle interior with lifelike immersive sound. The two companies are integrating Sennheiser’s patented AMBEO 3D audio technology with Continental’s Ac2ated Sound system.

Continental’s innovative concept abandons conventional speaker technology altogether, instead employing select surfaces in the vehicle interior to produce sound. Combined with Sennheiser’s AMBEO Mobility, the concept achieves a 3D sound reproduction that envelopes passengers in an incredibly detailed and vivid soundscape and lets them enjoy their in-car entertainment to the fullest.

Space-saving and lighter

In comparison to conventional audio systems, Ac2ated Sound enables a reduction of weight and space of up to 90%. In this way, the system not only produces the highest audio quality but is also ideal for electric vehicles, where saving space and weight is a high priority.

“For Ac2ated Sound, we have brought together the highest levels of expertise in the areas of acoustics, infotainment and vehicle design. In Sennheiser, we have found an audio expert who helped us make our pioneering audio system even better,” said Helmut Matschi, Member of the Executive Board and Head of the business area Vehicle Networking and Information at Continental. “Together, we have developed an audio system that creates premium sound out of nowhere. Additionally, Ac2ated Sound reduces space and weight. At Continental, we call this sustainability that’s music to your ears.”

Weight savings with the speakerless system make it ideal for electric vehicles.

Transforming the vehicle into an instrument

Inspired by the technology of classical string instruments, which use their wooden body as a resonance chamber, specially developed actuators excite specific surfaces in the vehicle interior. The result is an extremely natural sound experience for the occupants, who feel as if they are sitting in a concert hall surrounded by sound.

Additionally, in comparison with conventional speaker systems, the audio solution has a much lower weight and significantly reduced box volume. In comparison: With a multitude of components, conventional audio systems weigh up to 40 kgs and by using already existing surfaces, Ac2ated Sound is distinctly more efficient in saving space. It achieves a reduction between 75% and 90% in contrast to existing conventional systems on the market.

Space for speakers in door panels or other parts of the cabin won’t be required.

At the same time, the ‘invisible’ audio technology gives vehicle designers and manufacturers the freedom to do more with an automobile’s interior as they no longer need to accommodate speaker faces that take up valuable space. With Ac2ated Sound, many components are unnecessary because the surfaces in the vehicle vibrate just like speaker diaphragms.


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Announces CNY Promotion, ASX For RM99k Anyone?

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, is offering attractive promotions this Chinese New Year (CNY) 2018! Own a Mitsubishi ASX Compact SUV from as low as
RM99,000
*!

From now until 14 February, cash bonuses for all Mitsubishi models/variants are as follows:

No

Model/Variant

OTR Price without insurance GST inclusive (RM) in Peninsular Malaysia

Cash bonuses & Warranty

1

Triton VGT Adventure X

126,990.00

CNY bonus  up to RM8,000

All Triton variants except Triton Quest:  Five years warranty or 200,000km

Triton Quest: Five years warranty or 100,000km

2

Triton VGT AT Premium

116,300.00

3

Triton VGT AT GL

103,800.00

4

Triton VGT MT

107,600.00

5

Triton MT

93,920.00

6

Triton Quest

77,390.00

7

Outlander 2.4L (CKD)

155,000.00

CNY bonus up to RM4,000

Outlander 2.0L & 2.4L: Five years warranty/unlimited mileage

8

Outlander 2.0L (CKD)

139,988.00

9

ASX 2WD

119,100.00

CNY bonus up to RM20,000

All ASX variants: Five years warranty/unlimited mileage

10

ASX 4WD

134,300.00

11

ASX Adventure

(Limited Edition)

123,988.00

In conjunction with the festivities, MMM will also be hosting an
‘Xperience Mitsubishi’
 contest with the following mechanics:

The Xperience Mitsubishi Contest

1.       Go to any Mitsubishi showrooms and test-drive any Mitsubishi cars.

2.       Take a video after your test-drive to describe your Mitsubishi drive experience.

3.       Upload your videos either on Facebook or Instagram (please make sure it’s a public account) and hashtag
#Mitsubishi4me

4.      Mitsubishi Motors will select the best entries for a chance to win RM10, 000!

*Terms and conditions apply

That’s not all; Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will also be having an exclusive
‘New Year New Ride’
 Chinese New Year showroom event at this selected showrooms:

Date (Weekends)

Time

Mitsubishi Showrooms

27 January (Saturday)

10.00am – 6.00pm

Evatrend Sdn Bhd (Setapak)

28 January (Sunday)

10.00am – 6.00pm

Target Orion Star Sdn Bhd (Klang)

3 February (Saturday)

10.00am – 6.00pm

Ingress Motor Centre Puchong

4 February (Sunday)

10.00am – 6.00pm

Target Orion Star Sdn Bhd (Balakong)

10 February (Saturday)

10.00am – 6.00pm

EON Auto Mart Sdn Bhd (Glenmarie)

Test-drive any Mitsubishi model during the event day and
stand to win RM888 cash prizes or Ralliart
merchandise. Customers who place a booking during the event day will also receive a Ralliart dry bag and CNY money packet.

Visitors to the showrooms can also expect a whole lot of fun filled family activities and games such as Chinese dough doll making, Chinese calligraphy, paper cup piggy bank making, face painting, God of Prosperity appearances and lion dance performances.

·         Prices are quoted on-the-road without insurance, GST inclusive for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia (not applicable in duty free zones).

·         Terms and Conditions Apply.


First Honda Civic Type R in US to be auctioned for good cause

A first for Honda, the new generation Civic Type R will be the first of its nameplate to be sold in the US. And the very first car with (VIN) 01, made for the market, will be auctioned online (
Bring A Trailer
) beginning June 7th, with all proceeds benefiting the Pediatric Brain Tumor foundation.

It is is the world’s largest nonprofit solely dedicated to fighting the deadliest childhood cancer. Since 1991, the PBTF has funded more than USD 29 million (RM124 million) in research to improve quality of life, increase survivor ship and ultimately eliminate pediatric brain tumors. The nonprofit also offers families free educational resources about brain tumors, a toolkit for newly diagnosed patients, college scholarships for survivors, emergency financial aid and other support.

The Honda Civic Type R has always eluded the grubby hands of eager American fanboys since its introduction. The Japanese never really saw North America as a viable market to sell its performance oriented C-segment car. Now however, it seems as though that has changed and we are sure that that many car enthusiasts over there, thank them for it. This new car features a turbocharged 2.0-litre 16-valve DOHC engine that produces 306 bhp. Touted as the most powerful powerplant fitted to a Honda production vehicle, it is mated to a short-shifting six-speed manual transmission to offer the most analog experience one could have.

Drivers can adjust the vehicle’s characteristics by toggling through the Comfort, Sport and +R drive modes. The change in drive mode affects the vehicle’s fully independent suspension which comprises of dual-axis strut front strut and adaptive dampers. Other outstanding features include the use of cross-drilled front brake discs, 4-pot Brembo brake calipers and an extensive aerodynamic package that is said to offer high-speed stability and low drag.

Thanks to its performance figures, the Type R holds the lap record in the Nurburgring for the fastest front-wheel-drive car to lap the circuit in 7 minutes 43.80 seconds, which is 3 seconds faster than the previous record.

Despite Honda having a factory in the US, the Civic Type R that is destined to be sold there, will be built in the automaker’s UK plant in Swindon. The car’s engine whoever, will be be produced in Ohio, USA at Honda’s largest automobile engine plant in the world.


First images of 5th generation Kia Sportage which will debut in July

Kia Motors will soon be launching a new generation of the Sportage, one of its older SUV models which dates back to the early 1990s. The new model will make its debut in South Korea in July, followed by launches in other markets in the months after that.

‘Opposites United’

The brand’s most popular SUV will use its ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy with inspiration taken from nature and modernity. Revealed earlier this year, ‘Opposites United’ is Kia’s new design language. The images released today show an assertive and cutting-edge design paying homage to nature’s perfection and simplicity whilst connecting with the brand’s new design direction. This follows the carmaker’s recent rebrand that aims to create sustainable mobility solutions for customers by revamping all facets of its business.

“Taking inspiration from an ethos we created where nature meets technology, the all-new Sportage challenges the norm with an adventurous and contemporary exterior and a carefully conceived, beautifully detailed interior,” said Karim Habib, Senior Vice-President and Head of Global Design Centre. “With the all-new Sportage, we were fully focused on challenging ourselves and pushing our fifth-generation SUV to a new level.”

Current Sportage has been in the global market since 2016.

Emotive front end

The all-new Sportage will have a muscular stance with a strong and refined silhouette. Notable  details include crisp, taught character lines that ripple across the surfaces. Not shown but said to be emotive, the front has a detailed-orientated black grille graphic spanning the width of the face. At the rear, muscular shoulder lines drop gently to meet slim daytime-running lamps, which flank the new Kia logo and Sportage emblem.

The interior design sketch reveals a driver-oriented dashboard with an integrated curved display that occupies half the dashboard. It’s likely to be a fully digi-graphic panel, with the possibility of a Head-Up Display on some variants.

Technical details are not available yet, but it can be expected that the SUV will still be offered with petrol and diesel engines, along with a mild hybrid powertrain.

To be assembled in Malaysia?

Given its popularity in the Malaysian market, this could be one of the models that the
new representative of Kia – Bermaz Auto (BAuto) –
 will have assembled locally next year. A subsidiary of BAuto, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd (DMSB), will act as the sole distributor of the Korean vehicles. Newly-formed Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Kia Motors, will manage the assembly operations which will be at the Inokom plant in Kedah.

In the meantime, Kia owners are urged to provide their contact details to DMSB so that they can be contacted in future. This is especially important for those who have vehicles that still have warranties in effect (which will continue to be honoured). To register contact information,
click here
.

Bermaz Auto takes over Kia business in Malaysia, with local assembly to commence in 2022.


LEGO Brings Back Defender 90 Model For 75th Anniversary Of Land Rover

Land Rover is 75 years old this year and no doubt, the carmaker famous for its 4×4 models – long before SUVs came into existence – will be celebrating this milestone year in various ways. Another company that is also joining in the celebration is LEGO, the company which sells those build-it-yourself models made of little bricks.

In the past, LEGO has offered the Defender and in 2019, to coincide with the
launch of the New Defender
, a classic Defender 90 was also offered in the Technic series for older fans. Now, for the brand’s 75
th
 anniversary, it is bringing back the Defender 90, also in its original classic form, as a LEGO ICONS model.

The slab-sided design of the Defender lends itself well to being built out of the bricks. It is 32 cm long and made up of 2,336 parts. LEGO has included the Land Rover model with the sort of accessories typically found on the vehicle when taken off-road. These include a roof rack, raised air intake, front bumper with working winch, side rails and toolbox. There are also traction plates for crossing mud and sand.

Like many of the larger LEGO models, the Defender also has working steering and suspension, opening doors and bonnet, and an interior with details based on the full-size Classic Defender. It comes with the option of being a daily-use model or equipped for an off-road adventure.

“Bringing the Classic Defender to life in bricks was no easy challenge. Defender can take you anywhere, so during the design process we wanted to infuse the set with that sense of adventure,” said Kurt Kristiansen, LEGO Design Master. “We can’t wait to see the fans’ reactions.”

To launch the set (sales start globally and online on July 1, 2023), the LEGO Group placed a real Classic Defender in the Scottish Highlands and used it to house the hardest-to-reach LEGO Store in the world. That was the scene for a challenge, with adventurers Raha Moharrak and Aldo Kane racing to be the first to find and build the Land Rover new set.

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.

The Land Rover Defender – Past and Present


Michelle Rodriguez threatens to quit Fast & Furious franchise

Michelle Rodriguez, the actress who is a major part of the Fast & Furious movie franchise, has threatened to pull out of the next film. She took to instagram to voice her dissatisfaction about the show’s portrayal of women.

According to the news article posted on
carthrottle.com
, Rodriguez, who plays the role of Letty, one of leading characters in the movies since The Fast and The Furious, said,  “show some love to the women of the franchise on the next one”. She then went on to say that if things don’t change, she might have to walk away from one of the most successful automotive-centric movie franchise in recent history.

Her exact post is as follows:

The article also cites an earlier one from
Entertainment Weekly
, where Rodriguez stated that, though she understood that from the very beginning of the franchise, the lead characters weren’t that sophisticated due to their socioeconomic background. But through the progression of several installments and as the characters began to evolve to take on bigger and more significant roles in the movie plots, she hoped that “you stop being so physical and start becoming more intelligent”.

Director of the Fast 8 movie, Gary Gray refuted this claim by stating that the latest installment featured very strong female roles with Charlize Theron as the antagonist and Helen Mirren who made a cameo towards the later part of the movie.

It’s no surprise that hollywood actors are difficult to please, but since the beginning, the plot has mostly been on Dominic Torreto, played by Vin Diesel, and his team taking on whatever “over the top scenarios” that life has to throw at them. That said, we hope that the cast stays together and we get another action packed thriller from the next installment which is due for release on 19 April 2019.

Source:
carthrottle.com
,
Entertainment Weekly


REVIEWED: Volkswagen Tiguan 1.4 TSi – Sit Down, Buckle Up, Hold-On, Shut Up! [+Videos]

I had me a ‘
blond
–
moment
‘ recently. “This is the 2.0L right?” to which I received an incredulous stare along the lines of ‘what planet are you from?’ from the amused VPCM comms manager…

In my defense, this new
VW Tiguan
 felt so quick, I would have bet a months’ wages there was no way it could be powered by a puny 1.4-litre engine, who’s annual road-tax is a paltry
RM70
 a year. Here’s my in-car impression video, and please do ignore the part where I called it a two-litre….
duh
:

The thing about the
Tig
 (my pet name for it) though is that it only has
150Ps
 and
250Nm
 of torque from its 1,395cc turbocharged, direct injection, 4-cylinder engine; however, all 250 of that torques is available from as low as 1,500rpm.

Mated to a
6-speed

DSG
, to say that acceleration is quick would be a major understatement on my part, because this SUV is very,
very
 fast off the line, and given enough road, it’ll top out well beyond 200kmh, and again, all this performance from a 1.4-litre 4-pot. I still can’t get my head around that to be honest, because my own car has exactly
twice
 the capacity and is exactly twice as slow…

One thing though, unless you really, really need one, it’s best to not tick the box for the roof-rack option as seen on this test-unit, because early on I decided to rename it as the
 ‘roof-racket’
 instead. Anything above 100kmh results in a terrific amount of wind-noise, and not to mention poorer fuel-efficiency due to drag. So yeah, the roof-racket is quite a drag…
literally
.

Now apart from that easily-solvable problem, the Tig is a remarkable mid-size SUV to drive. It’s a VW so you can be assured of excellent build quality and superb driving ergonomics, not to mention amazing levels of NVH suppression.

And there’s even more good news! Following the
 0% GST
 which is to be implemented from 1st June 2018, the new Tiguan, available in two trim levels, is even
cheaper
 now:

Tiguan

Comfortline

Was RM148,990

Now
RM139,888

Highline

Was RM168,990

Now
RM158,888

All in all, it’s really hard to fault the VW Tiguan 1.4 TSi. It’s great on gas, it’s cheap to run (still can’t get over that RM70 annual road tax!) and offers the kind of ride and handling that puts it at par with much bigger and more expensive SUVs in the market. Size wise, it makes for the perfect daily-runner and those who prefer a small-
ish
 run-about insofar as SUVs are concerned, really need to give this one a gander. It really will surprise you. –
Chris Wee.

Before we go, here’s another video on the new Tiguan during its launch a while back, from our friend Bobby Ang at
#EVO Aurizn
:

VW Tiguan 1.4 TSi Photo Gallery (Spec sheet / Brochure can be downloaded after the gallery)

For the VW Tiguan 1.4 TSi Specs, click to download this:
vw-modelspecsheet-tiguan1-4-wm


On-Street Parking Can Now Be Paid With Touch ‘n Go eWallet

Users of the Touch ‘n Go eWallet can now conveniently pay for on-street parking in more locations that fall under the 19 enabled councils, with total coverage for the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor regions. The Majlis Perbandaran Klang, Majlis Bandaraya Seremban – Nilai, and Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya are the three newly enabled councils.

For on-street parking in both Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, Touch ‘n Go eWallet is the first eWallet in Malaysia to provide comprehensive coverage. By doing this, TNG is dealing with consumer complaints, notably those related to the removal of parking machines.

With the addition of these more councils, there are now a total of 19 councils on the list, including those in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, Terengganu, Perak, and Wilayah Persekutuan Putrajaya. The 19 councils are:

Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur
Majlis Bandaraya Subang Jaya
Majlis Perbandaran Kota Bharu
Majlis Perbandaran Kota Bharu: Pasir Tumboh
Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Langat
Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam
Majlis Bandaraya Kuala Terengganu
Majlis Daerah Machang
Majlis Perbandaran Sepang
Majlis Perbandaran Kajang
Majlis Perbandaran Kuala Selangor
Majlis Perbandaran Selayang
Majlis Perbandaran Teluk Intan
Perbadanan Putrajaya
Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya
Majlis Bandaraya Seremban
Majlis Bandaraya Seremban: Nilai (new)
Majlis Perbandaran Klang (new)
Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya (new)

This expansion aims to provide nationwide on-street parking coverage, therefore there is no more skipping payment for parking, and drivers no longer need to search for parking ticket machines or paper tickets.

The Touch ‘n Go eWallet makes it simple and hassle-free to pay for street parking. On the Touch ‘n Go eWallet home screen, merely tap the Parking symbol under “Services”. Choose “Pay For Parking Now” to add the location and your vehicle’s information. Make sure the information is correct before making the required payment.

From July 3 until August 4, 2023, a promotional campaign for Touch ‘n Go eWallet will be active. Users who use the parking feature of their eWallet to pay for parking during the campaign period and spend a minimum of RM0.40 will be eligible for a one-time cashback of up to RM0.50. The cashback promotion is only good for the first 250,000 eligible transactions until it expires when it is used up completely or the campaign is over.

Users will also have the chance to win amazing prizes like a Playstation 5, a Realme phone, or RM100 reload PINs if they make at least five payments during this time period with a minimum spending of RM0.40 each time.


BIMS 2018: The 2018 Bangkok International Motorshow Is Coming! [+Videos]

Spanning longer than just about any motorshow in the region, the
39th Bangkok International Motorshow
 (BIMS) is just around the corner and
 Piston.my
 will be there!

Themed the
 ‘Revolution in Motion’,
Grand Prix International PLC, the organisers of BIMS, announced recently that BIMS will be held from
March 28 to April 8, 2018
 at
IMPACT Challenger Muang Thong Thani.

Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Grand Prix International PLC and the Organizing Chairman of the 39
th
 Bangkok International Motor Show
 (above) revealed that “Bangkok International Motor Show is the No. 1 Motor Show in the ASEAN region, which has been certified by OICA (
Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d’Automobiles
) to be listed on the
Global Motor Show Calendar.

“More than 30 car companies will jointly participate the show this year, including the leading Japanese brands like Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Isuzu, Mazda, Suzuki, while representing Korean brands are KIA and Hyundai, etc. For European and American brands, this year we have Audi, BMW, Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Jaguar, Porsche, Land Rover, Volvo, MG, Ford, Maserati, Chevrolet, etc. This year, there will be 15 motorcycle brands joining the show such as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Triumph, Royal Enfield, etc.”
said Dr.Prachin.

Mr. Jaturont Komolmis, Chief Operation Officer (COO) of Grand Prix International PLC and the Vice Chairman of the 39
th
 Bangkok International Motor Show
 said that
“The show is still attractive for many entrepreneurs, including car and motorcycle companies, car audio brands as well as other related manufacturers, who have reserved the exhibition spaces at early stage.”

Here’s a video by MaxTV on last year’s 2017 BIMS!

The show will be even more auspicious this year since it has received the kind collaboration from the auto parts and accessories entrepreneurs association of China to participate the show for the first time! With this kind of cooperation from various countries in the region, the show is expected to grow to a new dimension in the future. Here’s a glimpse of the 2016 BIMS!

After the continuous success in the past year, the number of visitors exceeds 1.6 million and the show is likely to expand in line with the growth of Thai automotive industry. Apart from enjoying the latest innovation exhibited by many manufacturers to indicate the driving technology of today and tomorrow, many more activities await visitors to participate such as attending an automotive seminar or witnessing car show, etc.

The show will feature concept cars along with new model launchings for the first time in Thailand. In addition, visitors will be excited with plenty of enchanting shows performed under special light and sound effects equivalent to those of the world class shows. The highlight of the event is about “Electric Vehicle”. What is an electric vehicle in the future? It won’t be just a personal automobile only, but will further benefit to agriculture, transportation and Motorsports industries also. Let’s come and unveil the answer to this question together at the show.

The ticket price remains unchanged at
100 Baht
 (approx. RM13) along with the lucky campaign
 “Buy Ticket & Get a Chance to Win a Car”
 as the Organizer has always held every year. As usual, the big prizes awaiting are cars and motorcycles with the total value exceeding 2,500,000 Baht.

“The Bangkok International Motor Show also known as the greatest car show of Thailand and is well recognized among the car show organizers of ASEAN for its supremacy and equivalent standard to the world class events. Every year, many car show organizers from neighboring countries and worldwide car manufacturers have asked for an observation visit to further study and consult on how to host the show professionally and efficiently as well as to discuss about the investment in the automotive industry. This truly reflects our potential as the number one in hosting the Motor Show of ASEAN region with the international standard.”
 –
BIMS
.

Watch out for our coverage on BIMS 2018 ‘live’ from the venue later this month! –
Chris Wee.


Additional benefit for Volkswagen Cares Plus members

With the constant pressure to increase sales volumes, car companies often focus more on getting new customers to buy their products, offering special deals at various times of the year as incentives. However, there are also those that do not forget their loyal customers too, especially those who have stayed with the brand over the years.

As a show of appreciation for such customers, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is offering an additional savings for maintenance service to Volkswagen Care Plus (VCP) members. Under the VCP programme, members are entitled to three 20% service discount vouchers and from now
until December 31, 2021
, a further 10% discount will be given to make it a total of 30%.

Volkswagen Genuine Parts include batteries, which come with a 24-month warranty.

100% genuine parts assured

The service discount vouchers can be used at all authorised Volkswagen dealerships nationwide. Apart from services and repairs that are carried out by qualified and experienced technicians in accordance with Volkswagen’s global standards, owners are also assured that all parts used are 100% genuine parts. The importance of using genuine parts cannot be understated. Just like Volkswagen vehicles, the genuine parts are manufactured to the same high standards with strict quality control. They have quality, safety and reliability and will last for a long period of usage.

Only available with app

This promotion is only available by using the new Volkswagen Cares app. The app makes it easy to manage service bookings online, obtain roadside assistance and access the Volkswagen dealer network (with a dealer locator feature). It can be downloaded on the
Apple App Store
 for iOS users, and the
Google Play store
 for Android users.

VCP is an exclusive programme for Volkswagen owners with a vehicle that is 5 years and older. It also comes with benefits such as 2 years of complimentary roadside assistance, including battery support 24 hours a day.

To know more about Volkswagen Care Plus and other benefits for Volkswagen owners in Malaysia, visit
www.volkswagen.com.my
.

Volkswagen owners can get more with VIP


Movement Control Order (MCO) will start again from Wednesday, January 13

The Movement Control Order (MCO) will be introduced again in Malaysia from January 13 and is set to run for 2 weeks until January 26 2021. Whether it will be extended will be decided at a later time. However, the MCO will not apply to every state and the strictest conditions will apply to Pulau Pinang, Selangor, WP Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Labuan, Melaka, Johor dan Sabah.

Inter-district travel will not be permitted (there will be roadblocks) and the range of travel will be a maximum of 10 kms from the home. Only two persons from the same household can travel in the vehicle for the purpose of buying essentials or food.

Kedah, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu will be under CMCO, while Perlis and Sarawak will be under RMCO, during the same period.

During the MCO, employees of most sectors, except those in essential services, are required to work from home, but 30% of employees in a company (in the management category) are permitted to work in their office if they wish. Employers are allowed to determine those from a support group who can also come in to work.

Movement is limited and people are urged to remain at home as much as they can. However, as before, they can still travel to supermarkets and restaurants to buy essential items and food. Dine-in will not be permitted, so either pick up your orders or use a food delivery service. Hawkers will still be allowed to do business but in all cases, social distancing and other SOPs the public should be familiar with will apply. Please observe them.

As before, interstae travel will not be allowed and the maximum range for travel is 10 kms from the house to buy essential items or food.

Those who have special need to travel to hospitals or medical facilities may do so, and scheduled operations are still allowed to carry on. However, SOPs must be strictly observed.

Social activities in MCO states are banned, which means any event with public gatherings, including wedding receptions and group sport activities. Seminars and conferences are also not permitted. This means that Thaipusam festivities and processions are not allowed in all states, except for Perlis and Sarawak.

However, recognizing that being isolated at home could be detrimental for mental health, people are allowed to leave their houses to carry out recreational activities only with members of their households. If exercising, it is important to be at least 2 metres apart and if company is needed, only one other person should follow. Cyclists are also asked not to cycle in groups.


Dodge Ram 1500 Hydro Blue Sport signals end of an era

Dodge has announced a special edition variant of its ever popular Ram 1500 pick-truck as a send off for the 2017 model year vehicle.  Called the 2018 Ram 1500 Hydro Blue Sport, the Blue body-coloured vehicle features a black-decaled performance hood, body-colored grille with black billet inserts and black R-A-M letter badges, as well as other upgrades.

Apart from this, the vehicle also receives a body colored front fascia, rear bumper, side mirrors and door handles. The 4×2 model rolls on 22-inch aluminum wheels while the 4×4 one, gets slightly smaller polished 20-inch ones.

On the inside, this particular Ram gets blue colour-matched highlight stitching on the instrument panel, heated steering wheel and door trim. There’s also Blue Sport accents spread throughout including the Ram head logos that are on the headrests. Blue anodized surfaces make up the instrument panel bezels, center console trim and door spears.

“The custom look and high-impact colors have been well received in the marketplace and this new Ram 1500 Hydro Blue Sport will surely stand out on dealers’ lots and in customers’ driveways,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep & Ram Brands.

“Enthusiasts demand that their trucks get noticed and our Ram 1500 Sport lineup delivers a durable, powerful alternative with great visual appeal,” he added.

According to the automaker, there will only be 2,000 examples of the Hydo Blue Ram will ever be produced for the US market, which should make it a rare offering. That said, the Hydro Blue pearl paint job is available as an option for customers who purchase a Ram 1500 Sport crew cab with short-bed body styles and the 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8.

The Ram 1500 Hydro Blue Sport will go on sale this month and should be of interest to those looking for a pick-up truck with far more street credibility.


Final testing for first Aston Martin SUV before December launch

Aston Martin has confirmed that its first SUV – the DBX – will be launched in December this year. That’s just a little over 3 months away and the engineers are busy completing what is described as the most comprehensive test regime of any Aston Martin. Extensive everyday real-world driving and high-performance track evaluation has been taking place at locations worldwide to confirm the capabilities and durability of the most versatile product in the brand’s history.

The locations include two key engineering centres – at Silverstone in the UK and the Nurburgring in Germany. While conducting durability testing at the demanding Nurburgring, the DBX has delivered cornering speeds on par with the Vantage, while achieving braking figures greater than the Super GT, DBS Superleggera. This has already seen Aston Martin’s engineering team regularly achieve sub 8-minute lap times during their regular testing of the SUV.

550 ps V8, top speed over 290 km/h

The new DBX will be powered by a 4-litre twin-turbo V8 similar to the one in the existing Vantage and DB11. However, for DBX application, the engine surpasses the performance credentials of these models, delivering 550 ps/700 Nm. High speed testing has already proven that the DBX can consistently exceed 290 km/h.

With a focus on creating a broader, more solid acoustic note, the SUV’s exhaust system has been tuned to reflect a deep bass with increasing mid-tones, creating true auditory exhilaration, particularly in more sporting drive modes.

Commenting on the test programme, Matt Becker, Aston Martin’s Chief Engineer, said: “We have concentrated our work to ensure that the calibration and tune of this 4-litre twin-turbo V8 delivers both the everyday usability and refinement expected by SUV owners. However, we have also focused heavily on matching that with the engaging driving dynamics that are commanded by our brand and inherent in every Aston Martin and early indications of the car’s overall performance have been incredibly promising.”


Unique camouflage for BMW M Hybrid V8 LMDh hypercar for 2023 WEC

Ahead of the testing phase for the LMDh prototype in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in America next year, BMW M Motorsport is announcing the name and showing the racing car’s design, albeit with livery that serves as camouflage. To be called the BMW M Hybrid V8, its look has been designed by BMW Group Designworks and is clearly recognizable as a BMW M car.

Recognisable as a BMW M Motorsport car

This message is echoed by Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH who explained that the most critical task and the greatest challenge for the design team in the LMDh programme design team was that the prototype must be clearly recognisable as a BMW M Motorsport car.

“I can say this to all the fans: just one look is enough to confirm that the BMW M Hybrid V8 is a BMW. It clearly carries the genes of BMW M. I also love the camouflage livery with its references to the great history of the brand in North America. Congratulations to the design and aerodynamics departments at BMW M Motorsport and Dallara on their great work. I can hardly wait to see the BMW M Hybrid V8 on the track soon,” said van Meel.

The hallmark of the design is the wide kidney element. In addition, it boasts typical BMW M design elements such as the nested 50th anniversary logo on the bonnet, twin BMW icon lights, dynamic body side, Hofmeister kink window graphic, M ‘hook’ mirrors and the tail-lights.

Historic racing machines on the camouflage

Look closely and you will see that the camouflage livery contains many elements from 5 decades of motor racing history in North America. The images of iconic BMW machines – the 1976 3.0 CSL, the 1981 M1/C, the 1978 320i Turbo, the 1986 GTP, the M3 E36 GTS-2, the Z4 GTLM and the M8 GTE – create a graphic mosaic which obscures the shape of the BMW M Hybrid V8 so rivals can’t determine the exact form.

“My team’s job was to make the BMW M Hybrid V8 look like a BMW, and embrace every opportunity to make it also perform like one on the racetrack,” said BMW Group Designworks Global Automotive Director Michael Scully. “The design is rooted in BMW’s DNA of purposeful, efficient performance, and the exterior’s bold, determined character invokes BMW’s frontiersmanship of turbo power, now united with an optimized hybrid electric powertrain. The camouflage livery celebrates the 50 Years of M by commemorating the great cars of BMW’s storied history in IMSA racing while uniquely cloaking the BMW M Hybrid V8’s future-facing exterior geometry and technologies during the critical on-track development phase of the project.”

“We’ll follow-up this camouflage with a works livery that exemplifies the dynamism and excitement of hybrid electric-powered competition,” he added.

What is LMDh?

LMDh stands for
L
e
M
ans
D
aytona
H
ybrid which is a category in the new Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship (WEC). Regulations specify that LMDh race cars have a combustion engine and an electric motor. While each manufacturer can use their own combustion engine, the electric motor, battery and transmission are standard parts. The chassis is also built by an external partner.

The new racing car will compete in the new GTP class of the IMSA series, at such prestigious classics as the 24 Hours of Daytona, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the iconic Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta. BMW M Motorsport is working closely with the legendary Italian race car specialist Dallara on development of the BMW M Hybrid V8.

It’s basically a prototype racing car and BMW M Motorsport is returning to international prototype racing with the BMW M Hybrid V8. The last big victory for a BMW prototype came back in 1999, when the BMW V12 LMR won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. That car had also triumphed in the 12 Hours of Sebring in the same season.

BMW V12 LMR in 1999.

Limited-edition M4 CSL for BMW M’s 50th birthday