Audi Malaysia Introduces Seven New Electric Models!

Seven fully electric Audi e-tron models were formally introduced to the Malaysian market today by PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the importer and distributor of Volkswagen and Audi cars for Malaysia.

Erik Winter, Managing Director of PHSAM remarked that response for the Audi e-tron has been overwhelming from dealers and customers alike. “This is the largest product release for Audi in Malaysia, and we are elated to be the first country in the region to launch the Q8 e-tron. These top-of-range, high performance luxury vehicles have been highly anticipated, and are now set to captivate the hearts and imagination of Malaysians seeking a sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility option,” said Erik.

Audi RS e-tron GT and e-tron GT quattro

Advanced aerodynamics with active components, such as controlled inlets to cool the front brakes, air curtains to direct airflow around the vehicle for minimum drag-inducing turbulence, and thermal management with cooling air as necessary, are used while keeping the traditional design lines of
GT
 cars. Depending on the driving conditions, the rear spoiler can be extended into two configurations for the best airflow.

The e-tron GT’s lighting components are three-dimensional sculptures with a dynamic personality and digital aesthetics. Impressive illumination is provided by the standard matrix LED headlights, while the addition of Audi laser light in the e-tron GT quattro with Dynamic Package and the RS e-tron GT doubles the high beam’s range. Intelligent light distribution will prevent glare for approaching vehicles.

In the RS e-tron GT, the electric motor at the front generates 238 PS, while the motor in the rear produces up to 456 PS. The e-tron GT quattro’s front electric motor outputs 238 PS, and the rear motor outputs 435 PS.

Both electric motors have reserves available which can be activated by the driver during extreme driving situations. In boost mode (via launch control), the output of the RS e-tron GT can briefly increase to 646PS and torque goes up to 820 Nm. For the e-tron GT quattro, boost mode increases the output to a maximum of 530 PS for roughly 2.5 seconds, with torque bumped up to 640 Nm.

At maximum output, the RS e-tron GT will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, while the e-tron GT quattro will do the same run in 4.1 seconds. Continuing on, the RS e-tron GT will be able to reach a top speed of 250 km/h, with the e-tron GT quattro maxing out at 245 km/h.

Electric vehicles are noted for their almost silent running but with models like the e-tron GT, drivers will also appreciate having the emotive sporty sound backdrop that is associated with high performance. With e-tron sport sound, there is an authentic impression of the car’s performance, synchronised with the speed of travel. The high-quality digital sounds are generated by speakers inside and outside the car. Via the Audi drive select system, the driver can select the type of sound – from almost inaudible in efficiency profile to a powerful, sporty and voluminous expression of a GT.

The e-tron GT range is available in Kemora Gray, Suzuka Gray, Tango Red, Mythos Black, Daytona Gray, Ascari Blue, Floret Silver, Ibis White and Tactical Green.

Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron

With a streamlined profile created for increased aerodynamic efficiency, the Q8 Sportback e-tron presents a sportier appearance. The Sportback e-tron, like the avant-garde Q8 e-tron SUV, features the newest electric design language, including the expressive Singleframe mask and inverted grille, as well as the two-dimensional four brand rings.

The Black Package, which includes stealthy black exterior trim and solely red brake callipers, enhances the Q8 Sportback e-tron’s more assertive aesthetics.

To provide quattro all-wheel drive, the Q8 Sportback e-tron has powerful electric motors on the front and rear axles. Power output for the Sportback e-tron advanced is 340PS and 664Nm of torque, while the Sportback e-tron S line 55 produces 408PS and 664Nm of torque. Maximum torque is generated almost from standstill, propelling the Sportback e-tron advanced to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. The same sprint can be completed within 5.6 seconds by the Sportback e-tron S line 55.

Both versions of the Q8 Sportback e-tron use high-voltage, high-density lithium-ion battery packs with generous storage capacity for a maximised range. At the same time, charging time is minimised with sophisticated thermal management. For example, using a fast Combined Charging System (CCS) takes approximately 28 minutes to charge from 20% to 80% for the 95 kWh battery and about 31 minutes for the 114 kWh battery with optimum conditions. In 10 minutes at a HPC (High Performance Charging) station under ideal conditions, the Q8 Sportback e-tron advanced and Q8 Sportback e-tron S line 55 can recharge to a range of up to 123 km.

Besides CCS, the charging socket can additionally accept a standard mode 3 charging cable for AC charging with a Wallbox at home or a public charging station. With AC charging, the time will be between 9 to 11 hours, with ideal conditions and 11 kW supply.

Imported from Audi’s factory in Brussels, the Q8 Sportback e-tron is available in Magnet Gray, Ultra Blue, Chronos Gray, Madeira Brown, Mythos Black, Plasma Blue, Soneira Red, Daytona Gray and Glacier White (only for S line 5).

Audi Q8 e-tron advanced 50 and Q8 e-tron S line 55

Through the use of an expressive Singleframe mask and an inverted grille, the Q8 e-tron clearly distinguishes itself as an Audi. The Singleframe projector illumination on the Q8 e-tron S line 55 also contributes to the new brand’s distinctiveness. This is the first design to feature the newly created Audi four rings in a two-dimensional appearance, while still displaying a distinctive electric look.

As the benchmark in the electric SUV luxury class, the Q8 e-tron S Line 55 quattro comes with Digital Matrix LED headlights which use pioneering DMD (digital micromirror device) technology to illuminate the road in high resolution. A small chip containing over one million micromirrors, each of which can be adjusted up to 5,000 times per second, allows the light and its spread to be controlled intelligently, illuminating important areas and masking out others of less relevance.

Electric motors on both axles provide quattro all-wheel drive, with 340PS and 664Nm of torque for the Q8 e-tron advanced 50 quattro and 408PS and 664Nm of torque for the Q8 e-tron S line 55 quattro. Both drivetrains use a 2-stage ratio planetary gearbox with a single gear.

With peak torque available from almost a standstill, the e-tron advanced 50 quattro can clock 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, while the more powerful variant does the same sprint in 5.6 seconds.

Imported from Audi’s factory in Brussels, the Q8 e-tron is available in Magnet Gray, Ultra Blue, Chronos Gray, Madeira Brown, Mythos Black, Plasma Blue, Soneira Red, Daytona Gray and Glacier White (only for e-tron S line 55 with additional charge).

All Audi e-tron models come standard with 2 years unlimited mileage warranty, 8 years or 160,000 km battery warranty, and 5 years of complimentary roadside assistance. Customers may opt for the Audi Assurance Package (AAP) which offers 3 additional years of warranty and 3 years maintenance at 15,000km service intervals.

Price


EV charging network in Malaysia steadily growing along North-South Expressway

While driving from Singapore up through Peninsular Malaysia to the border with Thailand has been possible for decades, in the coming era of electric vehicles (EVs), a network of recharging stations needs to be set up so that such vehicles can complete the whole 862-km journey without running out of electrical ‘fuel’. While the range of EVs continues to increase, places to recharge along the way will still be needed in the same way as petrol stations as travellers may detour or take breaks in various places.

Companies like Shell, in collaboration with Porsche Asia Pacific, have taken the initiative to start setting up a
network of high-speed charging stations
 along the North-South Expressway. No doubt, as the EV population increases, other companies will also start contributing to the network.

Access to the Go/EVC charging stations requires the use of a mobile app.

Singapore’s sole piped town gas provider, City Energy, is among them and has launched its Go by City Energy (Go)  EV charging service to offer a seamless operational service across Singapore and Malaysia using a mobile app on smartphones. Operated by its new subsidiary, City Energy Go Pte. Ltd., Go will be the first EV charging service provider to offer EV charging solution as a service

This Caltex station near Sjudai in Johor is one of the stations with EV charging facilities.

Go, which finances, operates and maintains the network of EV charging stations, has a strategic partnership with EV Connection Sdn. Bhd. to extend charging connectivity into Malaysia. The two companies recently signed an agreement to extend connectivity into Malaysia. Go will be the first service in Singapore that extends EV charging capabilities into Malaysia.

EV Connection is one of Malaysia’s pioneers in EV charging solutions and an authorised EV charging station distributor registered with Suruhanjaya Tenaga, CIDB, Tenaga Nasional Berhad and MyHijau. With this partnership, Go drivers will be able to access EV Connection’s network of charging stations in Malaysia.

Depending on the location, the charging stations and power levels may vary. Go says that the charging levels can be 22 kW or 43 kW (AC) or 50 kW (DC). The higher the charging level, the faster the charging will be but each EV will be designed to accept a specific charging level. To cater for different EV models, the charging stations will have different ports for the popular types of charging cable connectors.

Shell and Porsche team up to provide first cross-border high-performance charging network in Southeast Asia


Bermaz Auto provides Mazda Contactless Service for everyone’s protection

Like all companies which have been permitted to resume operations after a lengthy shutdown due to the Movement Control Order (MCO), the Bermaz Auto Group has to comply with Standard Operating Procedures for the protection of customers as well as the company’s employees.

The safety standards set by the Ministry of Health will be fully adhered to, particularly in the ‘last-mile’ service to customers. To achieve this, Bermaz will provide Mazda Contactless Service where human contact is minimized.

Two ways to get vehicle serviced

Mazda Contactless Service comes with the choice of
Collect & Deliver Service
 or
Mobile Service
. The Collect & Deliver Service is available at selected service centres via appointment. The location of the vehicle should be within a radius of 10 kms of the service centre. The Mobile Service, available since 2017 in certain areas, brings the service centre to your doorstep but an appointment is required. Before and after service work, Bermaz personnel will disinfect the interior of the vehicle.

File picture of a Bermaz Auto service centre.

Extension of warranty/free service

Understanding that these are challenging times, Bermaz wants to give its customers flexibility so the company has extended its warranty and free scheduled maintenance for those affected by the restrictions of the MCO. The extension accorded will be equivalent to the same period of time as the MCO being in effect.

A message from the Executive Chairman

“We are now in an unusual situation, caught in a global pandemic, a time that none of us have ever experienced before. We are now under the Movement Control Order to ensure Social Distancing. I am sure this will put a lot of stress on us and our families because we, as humans, our activities are always centre around family, friends, and colleagues. But we know this is necessary to ensure we curtail this epidemic in our community and reduce the contagion effect,” said Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman of Bermaz Auto.

“We stay at home and practice social distancing but always remember to spread love and care, through constant contact with the people we love. Connectivity can still be practiced even when we are distancing. Modern technology has allowed us to practice the varied uses of mobile devices and their platforms, internet and computer devices. We will pull out of this crisis stronger and more resilient in the future,” he added.

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

Click here for other news and articles about Mazda and Bermaz Auto
.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia elevates brand presence with upgraded showroom

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has set the new benchmark when it comes to the level of luxury provides at showrooms thanks to their new brand presence at the elevated Cycle & Carriage Bintang dealership located in Mutiara Damansara.

The new concept showroom showcases MBM’s commitment in being the leader of premium automotive luxury experience throughout the customers’ journey of owning a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. This new era of customer-centric efforts marks a more dedicated approach to deliver nothing but the best for current and new owners alike.

According to Dr. Claus Weidner, President & CEO of MBM, “The new brand presence redefines the future of retail. At Mercedes-Benz, we take great pride in making the customer journey just as fulfilling as the ride ahead. We strongly believe that the introduction of this new brand presence will enable us to better cater to customers together with our trusted partner.”

Also present for the unveiling was Mr. Wilfrid Foo, CEO of Cycle & Carriage Bintang, who stated “We are proud to be the very first to bring this new Mercedes-Benz brand presence and experience to our customers in Malaysia. And to us, innovation is in the ability to bring to life an experience that addresses the unmet and unarticulated need. Today’s launch is a milestone in our journey to achieve that ambition.”

The newly developed elements to the new and improved showroom start off with personal assistance right at the welcome area where customers are welcomed with esteemed members of staff to guide them on their Mercedes-Benz journey, whether it’s buying a new car or getting their current vehicles serviced.

There’s also a brand space where customers can experience the brand in the virtual world with the guide of the Autohaus’ Product Experts. Waiting for your cars to get serviced is an experience as the showroom provides leisure facilities like hospitality café for you and your family to spend your time comfortably.

The integration of digital media throughout the showroom plays a major role in design to optimise customer experience, product presentation as well as a more entertaining interior compared to the usual showrooms. This provides a more atmospheric ambience for customers to enjoy as this is what MBM strives to achieve in providing the ultimate experience for fellow enthusiasts of the brand.

All these elements are housed within a new architectural concept where MBM’s corporate identity elements, brand architecture and interior designs portray the core values Mercedes-Benz customers have come to expect for a premium brand such as this.

In short, everything is taken care of with premium services from the moment you walk into the showroom to the point where you leave with your new vehicle and beyond. To know more, head over to
www.mercedes-benz.com.my
 or visit their upgraded showroom located at the heart of Mutiara Damansara.

First Mercedes-Benz fully-electric premium MPV to make public debut next month


Updated Mercedes-Benz E-Class launched in Malaysia today, priced from RM326,943

With over 14 million units sold since 1946, the E-Class is the bestselling model line for Mercedes-Benz. The current W213 generation was launched in 2017 and the facelift which the factory released last year is now available in Malaysia in two variants – E 300 AMG Line and E 200 Avantgarde.

Their prices (excluding insurance) start from
RM326,943.19
 for the E 200 and
RM375,432.19
 for the E 300. As both cars are assembled in Malaysia, they are exempted from sales tax until December 31, 2021.

The cosmetic changes

For the E 200, the Avantgarde package includes a slim new grille design while the surface of the bonnet has a more pronounced bulge – often called a ‘power dome’ – to provide a visual suggestion of the power of the engine underneath. There are also new high-performance headlamps and tail lights using LEDs.

Besides the power dome, the AMG Line on the E 300 has a new bumper styled by AMG, with the familiar grille that has visual depth. The MULTIBEAM LED headlamps now include ULTRA RANGE high beams for stronger illumination. Like the E 200, the rear lamp unit are also revised.

For the E 200, the standard alloy wheels are 18 inches in diameter with a 5-twin spoke design. The E 300 gets 19-inch wheels with an AMG-styled 5-twin-spoke design. New paint colours are available for the latest models – Grey Metallic and a High-Tech Silver finish.

Two engine outputs

Both variants use the same 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine (M264) with turbocharging, but with different tuning levels to give different outputs. The E 200 engine is tuned to deliver 197 ps/320 Nm, while the E 300 has output boosted to 258 ps/370 Nm. The difference in outputs enable the E 300 to go from 0 to 100 km/h 1.2 seconds quicker (6.4 seconds) than the E 200 and also reach a top speed 10 km/h faster (250 km/h). The E-Class continues to have rear-wheel drive, of course, with power delivery going through a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.

The interior of the latest E-Class has the new multifunction steering wheel wrapped in genuine leather.  The control surfaces sport a high-gloss black finish while the trim elements and surrounds have a light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim in the E 200 Avantgarde, and open-pore black ash wood trim on the E 300 AMG Line.

New operating principle for display

The instrument cluster and media display are controlled by swiping along the Touch Control buttons. The operating principle of the Touch Control buttons has changed from optical to capacitive which means a mechanical system is no longer needed.

The design of the front seats offers strong lateral support with pronounced side bolsters> Depending on the variant, the centre section has sporty transverse or modern longitudinal seams. The colours of the centre sections of the seat backrest and cushion are matched to the overall form of the seats. For the E 200, the upholstery is ARTICO man-made leather while the E 300 has genuine leather.

The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system displayed in the Widescreen Cockpit has two 12.3-inch displays. The information in the instrument cluster and on the media display is in high-resolution for maximum clarity.

Latest safety systems

A pioneer in automobile safety, it is only to be expected that the latest E-Class will come with the latest generation of driver assistance systems to enhance driving safety, particularly Active Safety. In some situations, automatic activation of certain systems such as the brakes will occur if the driver does not respond in time.

The hands-off recognition now works on a capacitive basis, enhancing user-friendliness when driving in semi-automated mode. Previously, to inform the assistance systems that the driver still has control of the E-Class, a slight steering movement was required but now, sensors on the rim of the steering wheel can detect if the driver is holding it.  If the system detects that the driver does not have their hands on the steering wheel for a certain time, a warning cascade is started, which finally activates Emergency Brake Assist if the driver continues to be inactive.

As standard, the E-Class comes with Active Brake Assist for autonomous emergency braking. As part of the Driving Assistance Package, this is now also possible when turning off across the oncoming lane.

Additionally, for the E 300, there is also Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC and a 360° camera view that makes it possible to enter and leave parking spaces automatically. The system facilitates the search for and selection of a parking space as well as entering and leaving (if the vehicle was parked automatically) parallel and end-on parking spaces or garages.

For the first time, the new E-Class is able to recognize and use parking spaces which are only marked as areas on larger sites, for example. The 360° camera transmits an even more realistic image to the display, which includes an expanded side view. When leaving a parking space, the system is able to warn of traffic crossing behind the vehicle and can apply the brakes in case a vehicle approaches.

Protection against break-ins and theft

The URBAN GUARD Vehicle Protection package provides comprehensive protection of the car at all times when the owner is not using it. Sensors can detect movement within (when the system is activated) and there is also tow-away protection which is able to detect changes in position. In the event of a break-in, the battery-backed alarm will sound. The driver can also be notified of theft or parking damage detection through the Mercedes me app.

Tested: Mercedes-Benz C300 Sport Suspension – Good Buy or Good Bye?


18th Volkswagen Outlet Opened In Setia Alam, Selangor

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) continues to expand its dealer network around the country to make the German brand more accessible to customers. The latest outlet to be opened in the Klang Valley is at Setia Alam in Selangor by Goh Brothers Motor.

Goh Brothers Motor has had a long association with Volkswagen and its new outlet in Setia Alam joins two others – in Juru, Penang and Ipoh, Perak. With the addition of Volkswagen Setia Alam, the brand network now has 18 outlets.

With a site area of 60,000 sq ft, Volkswagen Setia Alam is housed in a modern 4-storey building with the corporate identity, furnishing and equipment all complying with the standards set by Volkswagen AG.

The outlet is a 4S facility which means that besides sales, service and spare parts, it also offers body & paint services to restore or repair damaged and older vehicles. For those who wish to view or buy the latest Volkswagen models, a selection of up to 8 models will be on display on the mezzanine floor.

 The service centre, which occupies two levels and has a total floor area of 10,200 sq ft, can handle up to 30 vehicles a day. It has 15 experienced aftersales staff and all the necessary equipment specified by Volkswagen for maintenance and repair work.

“Our good relationship with our dealer partner, Goh Brothers, has culminated to the opening of the Setia Alam dealership. This opening further expands our network of dealers and the presence of Volkswagen in the country. I would like to extend our congratulations to Goh Brothers on the opening and our appreciation for your commitment to the Volkswagen brand,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM.

In conjunction with the opening, Volkswagen Setia Alam is inviting Volkswagen owners who have not serviced their cars for over 6 months for a complimentary 20-point safety diagnostic and health check. This is important to ensure that the vehicle is in good running condition and to identify any potential problems. The free inspection is available for the whole of this month.

Incidentally, the
Volkswagen Fest is also on again this weekend
 in Kuala Lumpur.  It will be held at the Sentul Depot off Jalan Ipoh from 10 am on Saturday and Sunday. Entry is free and there will be activities for all the family. Besides a classic car display with models from yesteryear, there will also be a glimpse of the future as VPCM will showing the ID.4 electric vehicle. This is a member of Volkswagen’s new fully electric models which will become more significant during this decade.

Volkswagen ID.4, a fully electric model, will be on display at the Volkswagen Fest.


Three more top awards for Ford Ranger in Europe

Although pick-up trucks were, in earlier years, regarded as just workhorse machines for use off-road most of the time, the Ford Ranger changed that image. When it was introduced in the mid-1990s as Ford’s ‘Asian Car’, it brought to the regional market a new way of using pick-ups – the way they were being used in America, the largest pick-up market in the world.

In America, pick-ups were used for a variety of purposes, not just for tough off-road transport. They were used in daily commuting and as leisure vehicles. Of course, they also had to look good and over time, Ford stylists made the rugged image something that was desirable.

This was how the Ranger changed the perception of the pick-up truck in ASEAN. Before it was introduced, pick-up trucks were pretty basic and boring. They usually came to town from construction sites or logging camps for supplies and then went back in. No one really considered having them as daily transport to work.

Still, the Ranger was ‘
Built Ford Tough
’ and had all the capabilities a pick-up truck should have – plus stylishness that appealed to those who had never thought of owning such a vehicle before. It made quite an impact and in its early years in the Malaysian market, it accounted for half of all pick-ups sold.

The big factory in Thailand which was built to make the Ranger for regional distribution was also a global production hub for the model. So distant markets like Europe and South America also got their Rangers from Thailand. In Europe, the model steadily made inroads into the market and grew in popularity to become Europe’s No. 1 in its segment. The dominance of the Ranger was again demonstrated when it collected three awards in Germany in recent months.

Readers of the specialist magazine ‘
Auto Bild Allrad
’ gave the highest number of votes to the Ford model, winning it the overall award among All-wheel Pickups.  The expert jury of the trade magazine ‘
firmenauto
’ was also convinced that the Ranger should win the top award in the pick-up segment, giving it the title of ‘Company Car of the Year 2020’. And finally, readers of the specialist magazine
OFF ROAD
 chose the Ranger  as the ‘Off-Road Vehicle of the Year 2020’ in the “Pick-ups” category as well.

In Europe, Ranger owners also attach mobile cabins to the vehicle for camping holidays.

The three latest awards join the ‘
International Pick-up of the Year 2020’ award
 which was won last year. The jury picked the Ranger for its combination of robustness, clever drive technology, comfort and large loading area.

To know more about the wide range of Ranger models available in Malaysia visit
www.sdacford.com.my
.

The New Ford Ranger FX4


The Aventador Era Has Ended

A light blue Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Roadster was the last pure, naturally-aspirated V12 Lamborghini to be produced, bringing an era to the end. Lamborghini has sold more Aventadors than the sum of all its previous V12 models, delivering its 10,000th Aventador in September 2020.

Unveiled at Geneva Motor Show in 2011 as the Aventador LP 700-4, the Aventador was a game-changer at its launch, and stood as the flagship model of the sportscar maker for 11 years of production.

“The Aventador is a jump of two generations in terms of design and technology, with an exceptional package of unique, innovative technologies and performance that is simply overwhelming,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman & CEO of Automobili Lamborghini at the time of its launch.

The benchmarking characteristics described at its debut have endured throughout its life. It has originated over 10 one-off and limited editions; set track records; won numerous awards; been the subject of artistic projects; featured in films and videogames; and delighted owners, enthusiasts, children and media the world over.

The Aventador’s technical innovation at its heart began with a ‘clean sheet’ approach. The first of its kind in a production car, a lightweight carbonfibre single-piece monocoque weighing just 147.5 kgs  was produced using Lamborghini’s patented RTM-Lambo process, manufactured entirely in-house. It delivered maximum torsional stiffness, and safety for the car’s occupants.

Automobili Lamborghini’s expertise in carbonfibre and lightweight technologies is represented throughout the Aventador’s evolution, including extensive developments in forged composite technologies. A team of ‘flying doctors was established at the Aventador’s inception, travelling across the world to support dealers with specialist diagnostics and repairs to the carbonfibre monocoque when damaged.

The design, created in-house by Centro Stile, was that of an aeronautically-inspired, dynamic, sculpted super sportscar. Its taut lines, complex surfaces and juxtaposition of angles and surfaces, including the scissors doors reserved for V12 Lamborghinis. Not only was it a timeless automotive design but more importantly, a powerful piece of enduring automotive art.

The then-new Lamborghini V12 60˚powerplant, developed entirely in-house, a continuation of the V12 heritage since the company’s earliest days. The launch car had a 6.5 litre engine that produced up to 700 bhp at 8,250 rpm and 690 Nm of torque, rocketing the Aventador from standstill to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and on to a  top speed of 350 km/h.

A robotized, Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) single-shift transmission, chosen for its lightweight compactness and the most emotive shift feel, was unique in a roadgoing car. It could change gears in just 50 milliseconds.

A pushrod suspension system inspired by Formula 1 was implemented in the Aventador, with a central ECU controlling electronic systems as well as the car’s set-up in terms of engine, transmission, differential, stability and steering via the unique drive mode selection system.

“The Aventador captured Lamborghini’s competencies in design and engineering when it debuted, with Lamborghini values that are always at the centre of company and product impetus: pure, futuristic design; benchmarking performance; and addressing technical challenges with innovation to produce the most emotive, class-leading super sportscars. These principles are the very essence of the Lamborghini Aventador, and assure its timeless appeal,” said Winkelmann.

Open APs No Longer Valid To Import New Lamborghinis


This 2020 Honda NSX has an engine at the FRONT!

It’s almost the year 2020 and what better way to showcase a manufacturer’s Super GT entry than unveiling an ultra-unique 2020 Honda NSX with its engine at the front! Why? New Class One regulations have stated that all race cars will be adopting a front-engine setup.

It was initially announced that Honda would be retaining the NSX’s original engine layout for 2020 but according to the latest report by
Motorsport.com
 (and during the unveiling), talks with the folks from Super GT did not go as planned. With that, the Honda NSX-GT with a front engine was announced.

When Honda announced the 2019 Honda NSX GT3 Evo late last year (picture above), it was equipped with a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine which is said to produce somewhere around the 500hp figure. There are still no details on how the new front-engine setup is like (apart from it being a 2.0-litre according to the new rules) but we’re pretty sure that Honda knows what they are doing and will indeed bring the fight to the other manufacturers in Super GT.

Other parts of the front-engine Honda NSX-GT like its bodywork and aerodynamic parts are somewhat similar to the ones found on the previously announced 2019 Honda NSX GT3 Evo but tuned up all the way to 11. These include a new front splitter, diffuser, rear bumper, rear wing, and the most obvious, front hood. No further details have been shared just yet but looking at the photos, we can see that the exhausts on the new car now end at the side.

Whatever the case may be, the 2019 Honda NSX-GT looks dope and we can’t wait to see how it performs around the circuit. We would imagine that it’ll produce one hell of a soundtrack plus flames spitting from the side and that is indeed how the youths today call FIRE.

Image credit:
Motorsport.com


Proton now has the largest 3S/4S network in the country

Every car company wants to sell as many vehicles as possible and each year, there is the expectation that there will be more deliveries than the year before. However, as some companies have discovered to their regret, the pursuit of more and more sales without equal attention to expanding the aftersales network – especially authorised service centres – can create problems for customers. Lack of advance planning to cope with an increased number of new vehicles requiring regular servicing will mean customers have to wait longer for an appointment.

Push to upgrade network for future

One of the first things which Proton did after it had Geely as a partner was to review its entire network and upgrade it. Though there were many dealers all over the country, not all were offering the full range of services for customers and in order to enhance the ownership experience, Proton aimed to get its network to be majority 3S/4S outlets. This meant that they would have sales, service and spare parts (3S) at one location, and those with additional space would also have extra services such as painting and body repair (4S).

The initiative was initially met with resistance as it required large investments. There were many small dealers who had just a showroom in a single shoplot and were satisfied just selling a few cars a month all the while. They didn’t understand that with additional investment to upgrade their dealership, they could grow their business further and derive extra income from aftersales services. Instead, their customers were being ‘stolen’ by dealerships which would look after their needs and probably sell them their next Proton. So these one-shoplot dealerships (referred to as ‘1S’ in the industry) could never grow as the only money they made was from the sale of the car. As those in the car business will tell you, there is much more money to be made in the aftersales side.

Proton’s CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong, pushed hard for the upgrades in spite of criticism by certain groups but he explained that it was necessary to prepare the network for growth and to ensure that customers would have a better ownership experience. There was no point in developing better models if the aftersales support was poor and people felt the brand image was not something they were proud of.

100 3S/4S outlets to date

With the opening of a new outlet in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, recently, Proton now has 100 3S/4S outlets nationwide, which makes it the brand with the largest such network. The new 3S outlet at the Oakland Industrial Park was built with an investment of approximately RM4 million. Located near the Seremban 2 Township, it is surrounded by new malls and housing areas which already have many Proton owners and will have many more in future.

The new 3S outlet at the Oakland Industrial Park in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan.

“What we have achieved is the culmination of hard work, dedication and commitment by the entire Proton family, from our vendors, dealers and talents in the company. From the beginning, we held the belief that to progress, we need sufficient outlets, good products, great technology in our cars and talent to manage the expectations of the company,” said Dr. Li.

“The results speak for themselves. Our sales have soared and we have since reclaimed the second spot since April this year. Total sales for the month ending July stand at 52,269 units compared to 35,561 in the same period last year, which equates to 47% growth in overall year-on-year sales,” he added.

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

Visit
www.proton.com
 to locate showrooms and service centres in Malaysia


50 Rolls-Royce owners will have a special challenge with their cars

This afternoon, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled a new series of cars from its Bespoke Collective range which come with something unusual – cryptic messages are hidden behind a unique Rolls-Royce cipher! This new generation of Collection Car is one that will bring with it an intriguing, entertaining and exclusive challenge for the owners of the 50 units of Wraith that will be available.

“The brilliant and creative minds of our Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective have excelled once again, creating an extraordinarily contemporary and compelling iteration of Wraith. The Wraith Kryptos Collection, on first glance, is a statement of dynamism. I look forward to seeing whether any of our clients will crack the code!” said Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

To the uninitiated, these ciphers appear, on the surface at least, to be an alluring design purely for aesthetic purposes and devoid of any discernible pattern. However, for those who look closer, those few who hold the key, they will embark on an experience that leads to an ‘enlightening conclusion’, according to Rolls-Royce.

“The name ‘Kryptos’ is derived from Ancient Greek, referring to something unseen, hidden and coded, mythical even. Ciphers can be traced through millennia, capturing the imagination of some of the world’s most brilliant minds,” said Rolls-Royce Bespoke Designer, Katrin Lehmann, who has a personal interest in the subject.

“As a designer, I’ve always been fascinated by the notion that you can communicate messages that are understood by only an elite few, using symbols, pictograms, and ciphers. Finding the key becomes integral to appreciating the full meaning of an item that can otherwise be viewed simply as a work of art,” she explained.

The cryptographic journey begins with the Spirit of Ecstasy on the bonnet of the car. An engraving with green enamel detailing introduces the Rolls-Royce cipher on the base of the enigmatic figurine. Below, recrafted bumper inserts draw the eye lower, subtly modifying both the gesture and posture of Wraith, giving this Collection an identity of its own.

The alluring colourway of the Collection hints at the car’s inner-most secrets. Delphic Grey, a Bespoke exterior hue consisting of a solid Anthracite base colour has a hidden effect – only in sunlight do the blue and green mica flakes appear.

This effect is accentuated by a hand-painted double coachline, the upper being painted in the newly developed Kryptos Green while the lower acts as a shadow in Dark Grey, both depicting clues relating to the interior code. Completing the exterior aesthetic are part polished wheels, with Orbit Grey coloured centres featuring a coloured pinstripe.

Inside, stepping over the illuminated treadplates, the cipher evolves deep into the fabric of the car. There is the accented Bespoke Kryptos Green leather hue, developed to incorporate a metallic effect, set against either Selby Grey or Anthracite.

In perhaps the most apparent clue, elements of the cipher are embroidered into Wraith’s headrests, where the customary ‘double-R’ emblem can so often be found. For the driver’s enjoyment, an intriguing screen print flows across the metal fascia, spanning the width of the interior.

Overhead is a beautifully elaborate, bi-coloured headliner depicting an in-motion data-stream inspired motif (owners who are fans of ‘
The Matrix
’ should love it). Illuminated door pockets continue this theme with Rolls-Royce woven leather and Kryptos Green threads to reveal an unexpected and subtle illumination that fades towards the base of the pocket. The centre tunnel is exquisitely stitched, repeating the horizontal lines of the door pockets, also hinting towards the driver-focused nature of this special car.

The owners of the cars will be invited to submit their efforts at cracking the code via the members-only Rolls-Royce Application,
Whispers
. The code is so secret that only two people in the company know the full resolution of the sequence – the designer and the CEO. The answer has been placed in a sealed envelope, in the safe of the CEO at the Rolls-Royce headquarters in England.

There are no clues as to what the message could be. It may be something profound but it is unlikely to be something frivolous, not with a Rolls-Royce. The company has not said what reward awaits the one who successfully deciphers the message.

The Rolls-Royce Black Badge Cullinan has arrived in Malaysia


Exclusive version of Maserati Levante available, priced from RM838,800

Five units of a special edition of the Maserati Levante are now available in Malaysia, priced
from RM838,800
 (inclusive of local taxes and duties). They are the Levante S GranSport featuring Ermenegildo Zegna interior with PELLETSSUTA, a woven leather textile made exclusively for selected Maserati vehicles.

This collaboration between the two iconic Italian brands is not new, given their shared passion for traditional craftsmanship as well as innovative design ideas. Born of old-world Italian traditions and today’s innovative technology, PELLETESSUTA is a result of years of research. It is a development that ingeniously uses thin Nappa leather strips, replacing conventional fabric yarn. The traditional method of weaving is still adhered to, creating create an ultra-luxurious ‘fabric’ that is lightweight, soft and enduring.

For the first time in the history of Maserati-Zegna partnership, the customisation has been extended to also include the GranSport trims of the Maserati range, expanding the possibilities for personalisation.

Besides the black PELLETESSUTA interior, there is also exclusive Radica wood trim with the words ‘Ermenegildo Zegna PELLETESSUTA’, black brake calipers; and 21-inch polished Helios rims. The special edition Levante S GranSport also has an exclusive bronzo tri-coat exterior colour, or as an alternative, a Blue Nobile tri-coat paint as well.

“Like Maserati, the PELLETESSUTA by Ermenegildo Zegna combines new avant-garde technologies with century-old craftmanship to create innovation. It comes to life in the Maserati Levante S GranSport to heighten the experience for both driver and passenger, while exquisitely complementing its luxurious, race-inspired performance,” said Datuk Nik Hamdan Nik Hassan, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.

Maserati Malaysia (Naza Italia) offers each of the 5 units with 3 years of Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction. There is also a Free maintenance programme of 3 years or 60,000 kms (whichever comes first), inclusive of Maserati Premium Service Plus.

MC20 – the all-new supercar that begins a new era for Maserati


All-new Toyota Harrier revealed, to be launched in Japan in June

23 years ago, Lexus introduced a new model which created a premium SUV class. It was known as the RX and in Japan, the same model was also sold as a Harrier under the Toyota brand (probably because Lexus was not sold in Japan yet). For the generations that followed, the Lexus and Toyota models were essentially similar until 2013 when they separated and the Harrier became an independent development.

The first two generations of the Harrier were similar to the Lexus RX but the most recent one (right) was an independent development.

The Harrier name and product had built up a strong reputation, even outside Japan and was a very popular parallel import in many countries, including Malaysia. Initially a JDM (Japan Domestic Market) model, its popularity eventually led to UMW Toyota Motor deciding to officially sell it in Malaysia from 2017.

Now comes a new Harrier, to be launched in Japan in June 2020, which is said to ‘go beyond the SUV category to offer new value as ‘a life-enriching partner’. Like its predecessors, it offers the same high quality in design and engineering.

The new Harrier has a front view that emphasizes sharp styling with fluid proportions through the continuity of lines flowing from the front upper grill through to the headlamps. The headlamps (with double-L DRLs) indicate individuality and technical advancement while enabling easy identification from a distance.

The narrowed coupe cabin has sportscar-like wheel housings extending from both sides of the body. Light from a thin, sharp line of tail lamps and stop lamps gives it an overwhelming sense of presence.

TNGA platform

The new Harrier uses the TNGA (GA-K) platform for its basic structure. This creates a highly rigid body with a low centre of gravity, enhancing both ride comfort and driving performance with a focus on driver sensitivity.

The suspension system uses MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone set-up at the rear. The front and rear suspension geometry has also been optimized to produce a well-balanced rigid body. Through thorough tuning and testing, Toyota engineers aimed to provide a ride that is both solid and graceful.

To improve steering convergence in the new Harrier, the shock absorbers have a smooth pedal stroke even in very low speed ranges are used. This enables the driver to feel the tyres gripping the road, achieving a high level of sensitivity.

The TNGA platform brings with it the latest all-new Dynamic Force Engines (2.5 litres and 2.0 litres) and Direct Shift-CVT. Customers can also choose the continually evolving Toyota Hybrid System (THS II), which expands the options available more than ever. Drivetrains are AWD or 2WD as well as E-Four with the Harrier Hybrid.

Toyota Safety Sense

The new Harrier comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which employs a pre-collision safety system that detects pedestrians during the day and at night, as well as cyclists during the day. TSS includes Intelligent Clearance Sonar with Parking Support Brakes (Stationary Objects) that helps reduce and/or mitigate damage from collisions during low-speed driving in parking lots, etc.

There is also a Digital Inner Mirror, used for the first time by Toyota, which enables recording of images to the front and rear of the vehicle while driving. The hybrid variant features a 100-volt (AC)/1,500-watt accessory power outlet. This not only allows the use of electrical products using the same electrical outlets found in the home, but also enables the SUV to be used as a power generator during blackouts and other times of emergency.

Ruggedness and individuality

The interior employs tactile synthetic leather to create the image of a natural-looking silhouette wrapped in thick leather, and bentwood-inspired wood tones and piping throughout, presenting a casual air of quality.

A panorama roof, used for the first time by Toyota, is equipped with electric shades and electro-chromatic windows. When the windows are dimmed, soft light penetrates the cabin. Low-contrast browns, greys, and blacks are used to create a calming atmosphere that is both chic and mature.

The centre console presents a wide and imposing impression of a horse’s saddle. It combines with an instrument panel set within the edges of the ‘saddle’ to present a generous ruggedness with an emphasis on individuality.

Toyota’s new painting process with highest coating efficiency in the world

Fighting COVID-19 is our joint responsibility. Protect yourself and others: make these 6 simple precautions your new habits.


Fuel Price Updates For July 7 – July 13, 2022


Lexus LC500 Convertible Debuts in Malaysia – Priced at RM1,350,000

Lexus Malaysia has introduced its latest model – the LC500 Convertible. The model is the Japanese luxury car maker’s first convertible model to be officially for sale in Malaysia and is now the flagship model of the entire Lexus line-up in Malaysia.

The LC500 Convertible with its dramatic presence remains true to the defining features of the LF-LC concept car (shown above) that inspired it. Despite that, it still offers the very same design elements that make it a true Lexus, such as the signature low, sharp front design, 3-beam LED projector headlights and the now iconic Spindle Grille.

In true Lexus spirit, the LC500 Convertible oozes sophistication and brilliant engineering. Take the soft top convertible roof for example, it folds away in just 15 seconds and takes 16 seconds to fold back in place. It is operational at speeds of up to 50km/h, so in case it pours, which it does a lot in Malaysia, you don’t need to clumsily look for a place to stop, you just need to slow down for 16 seconds.

The soft top is also constructed from a four-layered material that includes three layers of fabric and a NVH deadening material. And despite it being designed to look great, operate quickly and lower the NVH levels of the cabin, the soft top is extremely lightweight. In fact, the Convertible model with all of its hydraulic roof mechanism, weighs just 90kg more than its coupe sibling.

The LC500 Convertible does however share the same powertrain with the coupe – a massive 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that puts out 470hp and 540Nm of torque. This impressive powertrain helps the LC500 Convertible see off the 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds while top speed is electronically limited to 270km/h.

You would think that such a massive engine would probably be a really thirsty one, as the two usually go hand in hand. But not with this car, Lexus claims that the LC500 Convertible returns a fuel efficiency level of 12.7 liters per 100km on the combined cycle. Lexus says that this is achieved in part by how the engine is supposedly designed, as well as the 10-speed Artificial Intelligence Shift Control transmission which studies your driving behavior and predicts which gear you should be in, hence creating a more efficient drivetrain that puts out power quicker with lesser effort.

And of course, being a Lexus, comfort is of top priority here, and the beautiful cabin features the very best of refinement and quality. The semi-aniline leather seats are beautifully crafted and hug you ever so gently and are easily among the most comfortable seats in their class.

In terms of creature comforts, there’s a 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen display that is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Just in the driver’s line of sight sits a 8-inch Digital Combination Meter as well as a Heads-Up display. The entertainment system is courtesy of a Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System and sound is fed to the cabin through 13-speakers. And in true Lexus Omotenashi spirit, the system automatically adjusts the acoustic design based on the ambient sounds, and the sound remains crisp and consistent whether the roof is up or down.

The other engineering and design element that is supposed to keep the cabin serene is a unique transparent wind deflector located behind the rear seats (seen above) that helps reduce wind buffeting, keeping the cabin quiet at speeds of up to 60km/h.

The suspension of the LC500 Convertible too plays a huge role in creating a perfectly poised, comfortable ride quality. Called the Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension, this is not just your regular suspension system but rather it offers 650 different levels of damping force. Which basically means it is ready for just about any type of road you can throw at it.

And of course it comes with all the safety systems you would expect of such a car. Called the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+), the system comes with a Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams. It also offers six airbags and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. All of this is offered as standard.

The Lexus LC500 Convertible can be yours for a cool RM1,350,000 after sales and service tax without insurance. Buy this car and you will enjoy a five-year unlimited mileage warranty plus free service throughout the five years or for the first 100,000km. As long as you continue to service your car at a authorised Lexus service centre. Buy it now and you will receive your LC500 Convertible by February 2021.


Formula E Season 8/Round 12: New York City E-Prix

Formula E was in New York City this week for Round 12 and it was also the fifth year that the all-electric single-seater series was in the city fondly known as ‘The Big Apple’. The Brooklyn Street Circuit has served as the racetrack on 8 occasions in the past and season titles have been decided by e-Prix in the shadow of Manhattan’s skyline.

This year, for Round 12 of the ABB Formula E World Championship Season 8, it was Antonio Felix da Costa who led lights-to-flag to bring home his and DS TECHEETAH’s maiden win of the season. Chasing him across the finish line was Stoffel Vandoorne (Mercedes EQ Formula E Team), eating away at the points advantage of ROKIT Venturing Racing’s Edoardo Mortara at the top of the standings.

The Portuguese driver sprinted away from Julius Baer Pole Position and fended off the attentions of contenders early on before Vandoorne applied the pressure later in the race. However, the Mercedes-EQ driver could find no way through, to challenge da Costa and beat him to the chequered flag.

Vandoorne’s second spot was more than enough for one of Formula E’s most consistent scorers to leave the city with a smile on his face – especially with Drivers’ World Championship leader Mortara managing just a point at 10th spot, after a brake-by-wire issue in qualifying had marooned him at the back of the grid.

Jaguar TCS’s Mitch Evans wound up third, holding on to a mid-race half-spin as he tried to break into the top three by Alexander Sims (Mahindra Racing). The Jaguar TCS driver hit a bump in the Turn 6 braking zone and just managed to catch a huge sideways slide to keep it out of the wall. Fortunately, he dropped only to fifth and, by the end of the race, had fought his way back to third ahead of Sims.

Evans’ team mater, Sam Bird was able to scrap to fifth position from 16th on the grid. His impressive drive reignited their Teams’ World Championship push. Envision Racing’s Robin Frijns rounded out the top six in the Audi-powered racing car, with Nyck de Vries, the other Mercedes EQ drive, in seventh.

With just 4 rounds left, Vandoorne is back at the top of the Drivers’ World Championship, now with an 11-point margin to prior leader Mortara. Evans is 5 points further back in third with Jean-Eric Vergne (DS RECHEETAH) unable to score again.

The race

With the summer sunshine a change from the rain of the day before, da Costa fired away to an advantage of almost a second over Sims and Vandoorne. The Porsche of Andre Lotterer failed to get away at all, with the pack squeezing to avoid contact and the German sliding to 11th.

Come Lap 5, the chasing pack, led by Sims, had closed in on da Costa to within half a second while Vandoorne followed the same distance back just ahead of his teammate de Vries. Dan Ticktum in the NIO 333 Racing was the big mover in the early stages, up to 11th and a gain of 6 spots by Lap 7 with some very fast laps.

Just one mandatory ATTACK MODE activation for Round 12, and Ticktum was the first to blink. The leaders waited for one another to jump first – and it was de Vries and Sette Camara who went for it on Lap 11. The top two went through the loop a lap later and Vandoorne was able to jump them both to briefly take first.

Bird was another climber in the opening third of the race. The Jaguar driver had started from 16th position and had made it as high as eighth by Lap 13, before Dennis swept after taking his 30 kW ATTACK MODE boost.

On Lap 16, an error from de Vries saw his Silver Arrow 02 sideways and the door open for Evans behind. The Kiwi took his chance and crucially sat right behind fellow title challenger Vandoorne in fifth spot. The top five sat one behind the other with leader da Costa heading Sims, Vandoorne, Evans and de Vries, all within two seconds. Frijns was the next man back after dispatching Dennis with a regulation pass up the inside at Turn 1 on Lap 21.

Vandoorne was next to spy an opportunity, catching second-placed Sims out at Turn 6 with a rapid switch to the inside of the Mahindra on Lap 23. A lap later at the same spot, Evans tried to make it back by de Vries for fourth after the Mercedes-EQ had jumped him at the hairpin last time around. Evans almost lost his car over a bump on the brakes but produced an amazing piece of car control to hold on and, more importantly, also staying fifth.

Inside the last 10 minutes plus one lap, the field started to bunch back up again – the top 10 split by just 6 seconds. On Lap 30, de Vries got caught at the same bump as Evans had a couple of laps earlier while trying to make it beyond Sims for third and slipped wide at Turn 6 to hand fourth back to the Jaguar driver.

Unbelievably, on the very next lap, de Vries hit the same spot while defending from Bird, with the sister Jaguar able to profit and pinch fifth – an astonishing climb from fifth on the grid at lights out. Heading into the final couple of minutes, da Costa still had control and was eager to capture a first win of Season 8. Vandoorne couldn’t make FANBOOST count but behind Evans was able to dispatch Sims with a smart move at Turn 6 – after which his team said energy would now need conserving. Two positions gained after that big save.

With two laps to go, di Grassi got turned around at Turn 7 causing a bit of a traffic jam. In that mix, Vergne fell from the points to 19th position, which could prove costly in the championship battle. One point, minimum, slipping through his fingers.

From there, da Costa was able to bring it home for a first win for the Portuguese and DS TECHEETAH this season. Vandoorne followed for a strong haul and Jaguar’s third and fifth-placed finish, with Evans winding up third and Bird fifth had the British team’s mechanics jumping for joy.

After New York City, the series goes back across the Atlantic Ocean to London for another two rounds at the end of the month. The season-closing rounds will be held in Seoul, Korea, on August 15 and 16.

Porsche Taycan plays important role in Formula E as Official Safety Car


Honda WR-V Gets 2,500 Bookings – Malaysian Model Almost The Same as Thai & Indon Spec

The Honda WR-V is set to make its Malaysian debut tomorrow. The highly anticipated small SUV which Honda Malaysia says sits in its own segment and does not compete with any other car maker, was already available for booking at all dealerships nationwide last month.

As of today, the WRV already has 2,500 bookings! And Honda expects to deliver all 2,500 cars in less than two months. With that, it is safe to say that Honda’s small SUV is well received prior to its official debut. Honda also reassures that the WRV is not affected by the global chip shortage and as such deliveries will be on time and spare parts are readily available.

The second-generation WRV (first-generation for Malaysia) made its global debut in Indonesia last November and was launched in Thailand in May of 2023. We took it for a test drive from Bangkok to Pattaya recently and came away impressed, you can
read about that here

and watch the video below
.

Despite sitting in the same segment as the Perodua Ativa, Honda Malaysia says the WRV has created its own segment, and as such does not compete against any other models.

We can confirm that there will be four variants that will be offered for the Malaysian market starting with the top of the line RS variant, followed by the V, then the E and S spec. Of the four, the RS is naturally the most popular and accounts for 45% of all bookings received. The V received 38% with the E getting 12%.

Honda Malaysia has also confirmed that there are no difference in specifications between the Indonesian, Thai and Malaysian WRV’s. The only thing that is new to the Malaysian spec model is the inclusion of a headlight adjustment switch, which is required by Malaysian regulations.

As for the powertrain, Honda has also confirmed that the Malaysian WRV will be powered by the same powertrain as the other markets; a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine that produces 121PS and 145Nm of torque. Power will be sent to the front-wheels through the same 6-speed CVT gearbox with Step Shift Control.

The only difference between the Malaysian and the Thai WRV is that the Malaysian model will not get the roof rails seen above, and sadly, Malaysians will also not get the dual-tone paint job that we saw in Thailand.

Honda places a high focus on safety, thus the WR-V will also offer Honda Sensing, a cutting-edge safety system that includes eight safety functions, such as:

Lead Car Departure Notification
Adaptive Cruise Control
Collision Mitigation Braking System
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Keep Assist System
Road Departure Mitigation
Lane Departure Warning
Auto High Beam
LaneWatch Camera (left side for blind spot assist)

Official details such as variants and pricing will be announced tomorrow, so stay tuned for further details! In the meantime, you can check out five interesting things to know about the WR-V
here.


New LokaTAG built-in toll reader launched – RM499

Lokatech Engineering together with EFKON has launched the LokaTAG built-in toll reader. This is Malaysia’s first aftermarket built-in infra-red electronic toll collection system which is 100% compatible with all SmartTAG lane here in Malaysia.

Those who are interested to get one for your car can purchase one for only RM499. This product offers an alternative to the portable
MaxTAG
 unit which was launched back in October 2018. For those who wants the convenience of not needing to change the batteries from time to time, the LokaTAG is the one for you.

Where to get one? Well, you can head over to
Shopee Malaysia
 where every purchase of LokaTAG from the official LokaTAG online store comes with free on-site installation for customers in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor, along with 0% Easy Payment Plan (EPP) for just an extra RM1.  Customers outside these regions can install their LokaTAG for free at selected authorised dealers.

Connected to the car’s battery using a power socket or cigarette lighter plug, the LokaTAG features a long-lasting back-lit display with card error or low credit alert and is compatible with all vehicle models. This new unit has been proven to increase reliability and efficiency of everyday driving.

According to EFKON Asia Sdn Bhd director, Helmuth Blasch, “Market response to the portable MaxTAG has been excellent with average monthly sales of about 12,000 units. As for our built-in toll readers, we currently have five major car brands featuring our customised products with more coming on board soon. The combined total monthly sales of the portable and built-in units are about 25,000 units.”

LOKATECH Engineering Sdn Bhd general manager, Ng Shyh Kang, added “LokaTAG is the first and only authorised built-in toll reader for the aftermarket and we believe there is a high number of car owners who will appreciate the peace of mind and convenience of a seamless ride. For a start, we are targeting sales of about 1,000 units a month.”

“We expect the infra-red electronic toll collection system to continue playing a significant role in this country for years to come.  It has proven to be the most reliable, efficient, convenient and cost-effective cashless toll collection system in facilitating multi-lane traffic flow on Malaysian highways,” added Mr Blasch.

For more information on the LokaTAG, please go to
www.lokatag.com
. Each purchase comes with a one year warranty.

RFID still has flaws, official launch delayed


Rare classic Aston Martin goes on sale

One of the rarest Aston Martin cars that still exist, is now on sale. It’s a 1959 DB4, which has been placed on sale by classic car experts, Hexagon Classics. What elevates its preciousness however, is the fact that its a pre-production model with more than £222,000 (RM1,207,042) invested in its restoration process.

Aston Martin registered it as their London demonstration model until 1963, before production continued for the model. The car boasts a retrimmed leather interior, and has been converted to run on a Vantage triple Weber set-up. Other additions include a 5-speed gearbox and cosmetic tweaks to the front and rear wheel arches to accommodate its larger offset wire wheels.

This Blu Scozia Aston was the third right-hand-drive DB4 to come from Newport Pagnell. It was lovingly cared for by owner, Richard Williams for the past 37 years. The car was enjoyed immensely, and participated in legendary hill climb events throughout its life. This is why extra effort had to be taken to restore it to the current, almost concours condition.

Paul Michaels, chairman of Hexagon Classics, said, “The DB4 is unmistakably iconic, made more so thanks to this particular pre-production model claiming the legendary Richard Williams amongst it previous owners. It has been lovingly restored to immaculate condition and it ready for inspection from our North London showroom now.”

Under the hood is a rebuilt 4.2-litre engine that has undergone a recommissioning process that was carried out by specialists. This complements the almost pristine condition of the car’s restored interior and exterior. There’s no word yet on the car’s price tag or how much it is expected to sell for, but we will let you know more as we find out.


First flagship models of Vietnam’s Vinfast score 5 stars in ASEAN NCAP tests

Malaysians who don’t follow auto industry developments are probably not aware that Vietnam has a home-grown automobile brand known as VinFast. The company made its international debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2018 with the aim of developing and selling globally competitive cars with a Vietnamese identity. It is part of Vietnam’s largest business conglomerate, Vingroup, which has businesses in the technology, service and industry sectors.

Vinfast has already begun producing the Lux SA2.0 SUV and the Lux A2.0 Sedan, as well as the Fadil, a compact city car. Since March this year, over 155 units of the Lux models have been sent to 14 countries in Europe, Asia and Africa as well as Australia for real-world testing. Magna Steyr’s Graz testing centre in Austria and Bosch’s Austria plant are also carrying out testing for Vinfast.

Maximum rating for Lux models

With safety being a top priority, Vinfast is also submitting its cars for New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing which includes crash testing. In the ASEAN region, ASEAN NCAP is an internationally recognised NCAP organisation and following its full range of tests and analysis, it gave the maximum 5-star rating to the two Lux models while the Fadil city car received a 4-star rating.

In the crash tests, conducted last month, the Lux SA2 scored 46.45 out of 50 points for Adult Occupant Protection and 22.73 out of 25 points for Child Occupant Protection. The Lux A2.0 scored 46.89 out of 50 for Adult Occupant Protection, and 21.81 out of 25 points for Child Occupant Protection.

“VinFast is committed to bringing world-class automotive products to local and international consumers,” said Tran Le Phuong, Deputy General-Director of Vinfast. “The ASEAN NCAP results validate VinFast’s commitment to always putting quality first as we continue to create automotive products that are innovative, affordable and safe.”

Vinfast Lux SA2

Vinfast Lux A2.0

Vinfast Fadil

Meeting demand from growing middle class

Vinfast aims to address the growing demand for high-quality and affordable cars among Vietnam’s growing middle class. Vietnam’s Industrial Policy and Strategy Institute (IPSI) projects that domestic car sales will grow 22% annually from 2019 to 2025—a significant development for a market that has a current 4-5% car ownership rate. The company is projecting production of 500,000 units per year by 2025.

To gain additional exposure, Vinfast will be the title sponsor of the first-ever Formula 1 event in Vietnam next year. The F1 race will be held in Hanoi’s My Dinh sports complex. The 5.565-km track has been designed by Hermann Tilke, who has also designed many other F1 tracks including the Sepang International Circuit.


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

In the post-COVID-19 world (we’re not there yet), life will be different from what we’re used to. This will especially be the case where interactions are concerned due to the need to observe social distancing. You can’t just walk into a
kopitiam
 any longer and have to register as well as have your temperature taken. Maybe it will not be like that for years… or maybe it will.

Car companies have also had to change the way they do business in this context, in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures set by the Health Ministry. The aim is to minimise contact between customers and staff which can help reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Customers too may be hesitant about going to a dealership as some may worry about the risks of infection.

BMW and MINI owners can request for their vehicles to be picked up for servicing from their home.

BMW Group Malaysia has introduced a solution for contactless customer service with its new Door-to-Door service. Working in collaboration with Allianz Worldwide Partners, the company aims to further enhance the BMW premium ownership experience.

The Door-to-Door service will also improve on convenience by integrating BMW and MINI premium services into the customer’s daily routine. Owners can now request for and receive vehicle service (additional charges apply) without leaving the comfort of their home, wherever they may be in Malaysia.

They can communicate with their preferred dealership and a BMW service provider will be assigned to collect the vehicle from their doorstep (which could also be their office) and transport the vehicle to the service centre chosen. Once the work is completed, the vehicle will also be returned to the owner at their preferred location.

Additionally, the Door-to-Door service allows customers to arrange for doorstep delivery of their new BMW or MINI vehicle (extra charge option). They do not have to go to the showroom to collect it, as has been the case all along. As for concerns about the risk of the new vehicle being accidentally damaged along the way, it will not be driven but be transported on a flatbed truck (depending on the location and customer’s preference).

Click here
 to learn more about the new Door-to-Door service or contact any BMW or MINI dealership nationwide. For contact details, visit
www.bmw.com.my
 or
mini.my
.


The New Ferrari Portofino – More Details! [+Video, Full Photo Gallery & Tech Specs]

Naza Italia
, official importer and distributor of the Ferrari brand in Malaysia, has unveiled the brand’s new V8 GT, the
Ferrari Portofino
, in an exclusive event held at the Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort in Kuala Lumpur today. The Portofino, which debuted at the Frankfurt International Motor Show last year, is a perfect combination of luxury, versatility and on-board comfort. This new GT is set to dominate its segment.

The Ferrari Portofino takes its name from one of the most attractive villages on the Italian Riviera in the Liguria Region. Like its namesake, the Ferrari Portofino is a stylish symbol of scenic beauty and elegant daily living. It effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top that delivers the characteristic Ferrari V8 soundtrack for superb driving pleasure. The specially redesigned retractable hard top can now be opened or closed in a quick 14 seconds whilst on the move at lower speeds, making it even more practical for use in day-to-day situations.

Powered by the Ferrari V8 turbo, a member of the engine family that won the International Engine of the Year Award in 2016 and 2017 consecutively, the new car boasts an ability to unleash a tremendous 600cv and sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Due to the adoption of new components and the calibration of the engine management software, the power output is 40cv greater than that of the car’s predecessor, the California T. The Portofino’s lighter weight means overall the result is a significant hike in performance and a corresponding drop in emissions.

“The Portofino is the most powerful convertible car in the GT segment that Ferrari has ever produced and Naza Italia is thrilled to present this dynamic model in Malaysia. Combined with versatility, it offers a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market. This incredibly versatile V8 GT delivers sporty elegance, extreme performance, high-tech innovation and lavish comfort in a combination that is ideally suited to our customers’ automotive desires,”
 said
Dato Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd
(above, right).

The Ferrari Portofino is also an aggressively-styled car with a two-box fastback configuration – unprecedented in a coupe-convertible with a retractable hard top. This successfully adds extra sleekness to its silhouette, highlighting a sportier character.

Its vehicle dynamic characteristics have been completely revised and optimised. For the first time on this type of Ferrari model, third-generation electronic rear differential (E-Diffs) has been integrated with the F1-Trac, improving both mechanical grip and the control of the car to the limit. The Ferrari Portofino is also the first GT in this range to be fitted with EPS (Electric Power Steering). The integration of the EPS and the E-Diff3 reduced the steering ratio by 7% for even more responsive steering without a trade-off in stability at high-speed driving.

Thanks to the adoption of dual-coil technology, the
magnetorheological
 damping system (SCM-E) has been upgraded, helping to reduce roll while contributing to improving absorption of road surface unevenness, thus making it an even more dynamic, responsive car.

The new car also focuses on on-board comfort and this is achieved by a slew of new features – an infotainment system with a 10.2” touchscreen display, a new air-conditioning system that improves passenger comfort either with the top up or down, a new steering wheel, 18-way adjustable electric-powered seats with a new backrest design that boosts legroom for rear seat passengers, and the passenger display. All passengers will highly appreciate the new wind deflector which can cut air flow inside the cabin by 30% and reduces aerodynamic noise in open-top driving.

Presenting a brilliant marriage of design, performance, and technology, as well as various advantageous features – retractable hard top, spacious trunk, ample passenger space, and two rear seats suitable for a short trip – the new model is perfect for any occasion.

Damien Woo, National Brand Head – Ferrari of Naza Italia Sdn Bhd, Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd and Marco Sambaldi, Head of Sales, Ferrari Far and Middle East Hub

Ferrari’s much-awaited Portofino is being introduced at the base price of
RM948,000.00
 (excluding duty and customization options). Technical specifications appended after the gallery. Here’s a walk-around video from our friend Bobby Ang @ EVO/Aurizn:

Ferrari Portofino Malaysia Launch Photo Gallery…

Ferrari Portofino – Technical Specifications

Engine

Type                                        V8 – 90° turbo

Total displacement                  3855 cc

Bore and stroke                      86.5 mm x 82 mm

Max. power output *               441 kW (600 cv) at 7500 rpm

Maximum torque *                760 Nm between 3000 and 5250 rpm

Max. engine speed                 7500 rpm

Compression ratio                  9.45:1

Weight and dimensions

Length                                     4586 mm

Width                                      1938 mm

Height                                     1318 mm

Wheelbase                              2670 mm

Front track                              1633 mm

Rear track                               1635 mm

Kerb weight**                         1664 kg

Dry weight**                          1545 kg

Weight distribution                 46-54% front/rear

Boot capacity                          292 l

Fuel tank capacity                   80 l

Tyres

Front                                        245/35 ZR20; 8J x 20”

Rear                                        285/35 ZR20; 10J x 20”

Carbon-ceramic brakes

Front                                        390 mm x 34 mm

Rear                                        360 mm x 32 mm

Transmission and gearbox
                      F1 dual-clutch transmission, 7-speed

Electronic controls
                                  ESP, ESC, with F1-Trac, E-Diff 3, SCM-E with twin solenoid

Performance

Maximum speed                     >320 km/h

0-100 km/h                             3.5 sec

0-200 km/h                             10.8 sec

100-0 km/h                             34 m

Fuel consumption CO
2

emissions
***

Fuel consumption                    10.7 l/100 km

Emissions                                245g CO
2
/km

* In 7
th
 gear

** With specific optional extras

*** Combined cycle. In homologation phase.  ECE+EUDC with standard HELE configuration


BIKES: Yamaha X-Max & MT-09… A Classic Case Of Beauty & The Beast [+Videos]

I want both
. Oh man, how I would have loved to keep them permanently. Of course it really didn’t help that I tested both the
Yamaha X-Max 250

Scooter
 (below) and
MT-09 Streetfighter
 (above) back-to-back, and for the first time ever, here were 2 bikes – well one bike and one scooter, but for the purposes of this article I’ll be referring to both of them as ‘bikes’ – that I really, really
despised
. Despised the fact that I had to return them of course.

It’s no big secret that I’ve been a biker longer than I’ve been driving cars, having cut my teeth on 2-wheelers long before I was even allowed to ride them legally (sorry, I was a bit of a juvenile delinquent in my youth, but hey I turned out fine….ish.
Sorta
…), and over the years I’ve owned a slew of high-performance machines, only to unexpectedly and inexplicably turn to the ‘retro’ scene about the decade ago, as well as the scooter scene around the same time.

I reckon the bike that caused this ‘turning-point’ in my biking life was the
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14 a.k.a. ZZR1400
 which I reviewed many moons ago when it first burst onto the scene. Capable of an amazing
200bhp
 going to the back wheel (not a typo) with its infamous
‘ram-air’
 induction system, and a top speed in access of 300kmh, this six-eyed monster was to me the epitome of everything that had gone
wrong
 with the world of biking…

Although I must admit I thought the ZX-14 was (and still is) an incredible feat of engineering and admired the hell out of it for its sheer audacity and in-your-face disregard for political-correctness in an age where we’ve never been more so, I also strongly felt that bike makers had lost the plot completely when it came to biking, by constantly producing bigger, faster and more powerful 2-wheelers. Where would it end?

This incredible leap in technology also sent the price of big bikes rocketing through the stratosphere locally, seeing as how our taxation system for bikes over a specific cubic-capacity was thought of and introduced when the main mode of personal transport was a bicycle called the
‘Seven-up’.
 Google it… okay, I’ll save you the trouble:

So yeah it was in and around that time when I decided nope, no more insanely high-powered bikes for me, and decided to go retro, starting with a BMW K1100RS, and followed-up with the likes of old skool Suzuki GS’s, GSX’s, etc. etc. etc. and as mentioned I got heavy into scooters. In successive order I’ve owned a V100, VS125 (2 actually), Elegan 150, and a currently a Sym200 VTS.

I’ve toned-down a lot when it comes to biking, preferring instead to just cruise at moderate speed rather than
‘balls-to-the-wall’
 type riding, and in that respect, I’ve found that as far as daily-commuting and the occasional
scootour
 long-distance ride is concerned, there aren’t many scooters I’m comfortable on apart from my Sym, and I’ve always bench-marked any scooter I review against my own.

Thus far I’ve been content with the fact that my Sym suits me the best insofar as the riding position, comfort and long-distance capability is concerned; that is until this goddam Yamaha X-Max came along… Here’s my post-ride video that sums up my thoughts nicely:

And then, having returned the X-Max, it just so happened that the new Yamaha MT-09 was available if I wanted it for a few days, and of course I could not say no, because the MT-09 – to me anyway – does not belong in the Yamaha line-up; as a matter a fact, a bike like this shouldn’t be in
any
 bike-makers line-up and here’s why…

The MT-09 is a
Streetfighter

through and through, and although there isn’t a badge, emblem or sticker that reads ‘Streetfighter’ anywhere on the bike that I could see, it definitely is one simply by virtue of the way it looks, the way it’s built and the way you ride it. And the
reason
 a Streetfighter doesn’t belong in any bike-maker’s official stable is because it was created by
bikers
, not bike-makers, and purely by accident too,
literally
.

Streetfighters came about when sportsbike owners had crashes and sent their fairings in to be repaired. Since the bikes could still be ridden sans fairing, many did so after slapping on a straight handle bar to replace the inevitably damaged clip-ons, and the trend caught on around 20-odd years ago, when some realised that a sportsbike looked kinda cool with its kit-off, and owners started to remove their expensive fairings from their bikes on purpose – possibly to save them big bucks if they had an ‘off’ – and ‘lo and behold Streetfighters were born.

The moment I swung my leg over the MT-09 and spirited myself away from Hong Leong Yamaha in Sg.Buloh, I could tell this was a Streetfighter right away. The riding-position is possibly the biggest giveaway, because in typical Streetfighter fashion, the rider sits quite upright and very ‘forward’ with his
franks and beans
 right up against the tank. It’s also a very short bike from nose to tail, allowing for incredible maneuverability. Here’s my post ride, jittery, shaky, adrenaline enhanced video…

The nimbleness of the MT-09 is only overshadowed by the unbelievable amounts of torque from it 847cc, 3-cylinder engine. On paper the torque is only rated at
87.5Nm
, with a healthy
115Ps
 @ 10,000 rpm, in a bike that weighs
 less than 200kgs
. You know what that means don’t you? Should I elaborate? Very well then…

This bike is
insane
. It is so quick you’ll not believe how fast it reaches triple-digit speeds from a standstill, especially since it’s equipped with a ‘
Quickshifter
‘ you won’t need to use the clutch after 1st gear or shut the throttle to upshift. Hard acceleration sees the digital speedometer become absolutely worthless because this bike’s acceleration is so brutal, it just becomes a blur of flying digital bars that look like they’re on
flakka
.

It really did remind me of the bikes I used to lust after in my youth, and as the song goes, it made me
feel eighteen again
. If only for a while anyway. The thing to remember though, is that even with all my years of riding experience, this was still a very hard bike to tame. It’ll take a much younger hand with an equal (or more) amount of riding experience to fully explore the capabilities and limits of this bike, something I was not prepared to do myself unfortunately. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t have a
lot
 of fun on this thing…

So back to taking things slow. In a nutshell, if an easy ride is what you’re after, a fuss-free daily commuter that can easily double-up as an occasional long-distance tourer, the Yamaha X-Max 250 is by far one of the best options out there now at around the
RM20k
 price ballpark.

However, if you have the inclination to step-up your game and swing a leg over something totally bonkers, the Yamaha MT-09 at around
RM45k
 is definitely a bike worth considering. I’m still recovering from the adrenaline rush to be honest… –
Chris Wee.

Yamaha X-Max & MT-09 Photo Gallery (MT-09 photos by Buck Saleh)…


Alpine Alpenglow Concept Shows Design And Technological Direction Of Sportscar Company

Alpine, the French company founded in 1955, has always been associated with sportscars. That part of its DNA remains intact up till today and will also be found in its roadgoing and racetrack models of tomorrow. The vision and roadmap moving forward is now encapsulated in the Alpenglow concept which will be displayed at the Paris Motorshow this month.

The Alpenglow presents the brand’s forward-looking technological direction as well as the design language that will be adopted. Like its parent company, Renault, Alpine is also heading towards full electrification and will explore the approach of using hydrogen. ‘Green’ hydrogen sustainable mobility as hydrogen is available ‘everywhere’. A hydrogen-fuelled engine releases practically nothing but steam during combustion so it is very clean.

The radical design resembles that of a prototype sportscar, like those which race at Le Mans, and the colours and materials are evocative of what the Alpine cars of the future will look like. Natural elements and states – such as fire, water, ice, wind and steam – inspire the various shapes on flowing, streamlined body. It resembles a wingsuit, worn by those who take part in the most extreme of mountain sports.

The Alpenglow has unique lights which match with the ones on Alpine cars today. The light stream starts at the front, where it is red, symbolising a comet entering the atmosphere, and works its way back, where it turns various shades of blue pointing to its hydrogen internal-combustion engine, which releases practically nothing but steam.

Also at the front, triangles of light form a sprinkling of stars rising from the four headlamps, mirroring Alpine’s emblematic signature. Overall, they create an all-round impression of movement across the car’s body. They are open, look stunning and serve a purpose, venting the steam from the hydrogen’s combustion. In contact with the air, a blue stream emerges from the clean exhaust pipes, giving the Alpenglow a sporty and, at the same time, magical aura.

This rear spoiler is completely transparent, which effaces it and the purpose it serves. Besides being very light, it plays the essential role: of reducing drag and increasing downforce to improve stability at higher speeds.

Over 5 metres in length, the  bodyshell is light and seems to float, enveloping the driver who sits on the centreline, between two hydrogen tanks. The driver’s silhouette leaves a mark in the cockpit, while the two ‘pontoon’ waterdrop-shaped tanks on either side of the cockpit add the feeling of being at one with the machinery.

The Alpenglow’s cockpit is transparent, has a blueish hint and is helmet-shaped. A geometric steering wheel is inspired by LMP1 (Endurance) racing cars sits in the forward centre area. The paddle gear shifters are transparent and backlit, adding to the weightlessness in the lean. At the base of the steering wheel are two selectors for the various built-in functions, which mirror the ones in Formula 1 and LMP1 cars.

Building on its heritage but at the same time firmly focused on the future, the Alpine brand’s next generation of models – its Dream Garage – will consist of 3 all-electric models: a compact sportscar (B segment), a GT crossover (C segment) and an A110 replacement.

The Alpine A4810 Project by IED


BIMS 2018: Used Car Fair Officially Opened! The Only One Of Its Kind

It’s the only one of its kind insofar as Motorshows are concerned. If new cars at the show aren’t your thing, well then Grand Prix International Co., Ltd. (Thailand) led by
Mr. Jaturont Komolmis, Executive Director / Chief Operating Officer and Chairman
 of the event, recently held a grand opening of the
“Used Car Fair No. 10”
 at Impact Exhibition Exhibition Hall 2-4, Muang Thong Thani, the site of BIMS 2018.

The
 Used Car Expo
 has been a staple of BIMS for more than 10 years, participated in by leading automotive companies, entrepreneurs and used car dealers, as well as consumer groups.

Along with the used car companies, an MOU was signed recently to guarantee and assure the quality of cars being sold at the event. “Krungsri Auto” continues to participate as a partner, and is the main sponsor for the 5th consecutive year.

 Low down-payments and up to 84-months instalment programs are available, as well as an extended parts warranty for up to 2 years or 70,000 km (Krungsri Auto Extended Warranty). Returning customers also get a petrol card worth 1,000 baht, too.

The Used Car Fair runs from
 2nd – 8th April, 2018,
Monday – Friday from 12:00 to 22:00 hrs. – Saturday, Sunday and public holidays at 11:00 to 22:00. Venue is Exhibition Hall 2-4, Impact Muang Thong Thani and 20 baht per person per entry.

Log on to
www.bangkokusedcarshow.com
 for more details.


Shell Malaysia Launches World’s First Carbon-Neutral Engine Oil, Made From Natural Gas

Ever since the Industrial Revolution began in the 19th century, emissions of carbon dioxide (CO
2
)have kept increasing in the environment from industrial activities and products. The gas, often referred to as a ‘greenhouse gas’, has been identified as the main contributor to global warming. Although nature has had processes to remove CO
2
, the increase of the gas has exceeded the capability of natural systems to remove it, leading to accumulation that has reached levels where the climate is being changed.

The warning signs are clear and depending on who you listen to, we could be very close to the tipping point when the change will not be reversible. But regardless of the timeline, it is clear that global warming is occurring and action needs to be taken. Scientists believe that preventing an increase of more than 1.5 degrees C. is crucial for the planet’s future and some 200 countries have given commitments to do their part to achieve this goal.

Industries, most of which generate CO
2
 through their activities and products, have also made a similar commitment to help prevent climate change. Many have already stated goals to stop generating greenhouse gases – becoming carbon-neutral – in their activities and products during the next couple of decades.

Among these companies is Shell, the global energy company, which has long had activities upstream and downstream as well as products – fuels and lubricants, in particular – which have generated CO
2
. The company has declared that it will become a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050.

In Malaysia, the company has already undertaken various initiatives to help reduce carbon emissions, one example being the use of
solar energy for its stations
. Today, it has also taken another major step by introducing the world’s first carbon-neutral lubricant for motor vehicles made from natural gas, which is also the first such product in the country.

The new engine lubricants are the Shell Helix Power and Protect oils, familiar product names as they have been
in the market since July 2020
. However, the Helix Power and Protect fully synthetic oils launched today are uniquely different as they are produced – in Malaysia – from natural gas instead of crude oil. Natural gas (which Malaysia has a lot of) is the cleanest-burning fossil and unlike crude oil, it has almost none of the impurities like sulphur, aromatics and nitrogen.

The process of producing Helix carbon-neutral oils uses Gas-To-Liquid (GTL) technology which Shell began developing in the 1970s and in fact, the world’s first commercial GTL plant, Shell MDS, was opened in Bintulu, Sarawak in 1993. The company has invested more than US$1 billion in GTL R&D and filed over 3,500 patents in developing the process, and continues to advance the technology.

Shell MDS in Bintulu, Sarawak – the world’s first commercial GTL (gas-to-liquid) plant when it was opened in 1993.

Fuels, specifically diesel, produced using GTP technology have already been available for many years but engine oils are the latest advancement and Helix Power and Protect are the first two products. With the switch to a carbon-neutral product, Shell Malaysia has also added an additional viscosity of 5W to the range (priced at RM280 for a 4-litre pack) which up till now has had only 0W viscosities. While most modern engines will run well on 0W viscosity oil, some manufacturers may recommend the use of 5W so the availability of this slightly thicker viscosity will allow more motorists.

The benefits of using Helix oil would already be well known as the product has been around for a long time – constantly updated and improved, of course. It also has PurePlus Technology for very clean oil. It meets the latest SAE service standards and provides superior protection and lubrication to all moving parts within an engine.

The Helix Power oil is for motorists who usually do more highway driving and performs optimally under greater stresses. For those who drive mostly in cities, where speeds are low and there’s a lot of stopping and starting, Helix Protect is recommended as it is formulated to give better protection -in such conditions, helping to extend engine life by reducing wear and tear.

Easy decision-making with new Shell Helix engine oils

Besides the new 5W-40 viscosity for Helix Power, the Helix Power and Protect Carbon-Neutral oils are available in viscosities of 0W-40 and 0W-30 for Helix Protect. They are available at Shell stations and participating Shell branded and independent workshops around Malaysia. Shell Malaysia recommends that motorists check that the Shell oils they buy have the ‘
Untuk Pasaran Malaysia
’ label on them to ensure they are genuine. The company also says it does not sell its products through hypermarkets.

Making its oil carbon-neutral is just one part of Shell’s efforts at eliminating CO
2
 emissions. The company also looks at the entire lifecycle of its products, and has implemented various measures as well in the raw materials, packaging, production, distribution, customer use and product end-of-life.

“Increasingly, we will work on nature-based solutions to deliver high-quality carbon credits which can be used to compensate the emissions generated when a customer purchases and uses a Shell product, such as the new Shell Helix Power. This comes in addition to our existing efforts of responsibly reducing the carbon intensity of oil and gas operations, and investments in lower-carbon sources of energy,” said Dato Ivan Tan, Chairman of Shell Malaysia.

The Limited Edition Shell Motorsports Collection You Can Admire – As Well As Race!

Click here
 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Renault Mega Parts Clearance campaign offers up to 90% discount

Owners of various Renault models needing replacement parts can save money this month and next month as TC Euro Cars (TCEC) is offering up to 90% off on selected items with its Mega Parts Clearance campaign.

The parts are for models such as the Kangoo, Scenic, Espace, Clio, Megane (including the R.S.), Fluence and others which TCEC has sold in the past. They are available while stocks last and first come-first served basis, with the discount offered
until December 31, 2020
.

Selected parts are available for older models such as the Kangoo and Clio.

Available at Renault service centres

The parts can be purchased at authorised Renault Service Centres nationwide or the Renault Store on Shopee. Interested customers can first visit the Renault website to browse through the parts lists by model and submit a request for the parts to check on availability before finalising the purchase.

Customers who are Maybank credit cardholders can enjoy a 0% instalment plan via the Ezy Payment Scheme but must make a purchase of at least RM500. This offer is only available at the service centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

If parts purchased are installed at the service centre, there’s a 50% discount on labour.

50% discount on labour

If the customer chooses to replace or install the purchased parts at the Renault authorised service centres, there is a 50% discount on labour charges. There is also a complimentary vehicle inspection and car wash after the work is completed.

Click here for other news and articles about Renault
.