Lamborghini Revuelto Unleashed

Lamborghini has apparently combined thunder and lightning for its first HPEV (High-Performance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car, the Revuelto.

The word “Revuelto”, translated to English means “scrambled” or “mixed-up” and was actually a fighting bull, a celebrity in the arenas of Barcelona in the 1880s.

The Lamborghini Revuelto was unveiled just before the 60th anniversary of the Italian automaker marking a new direction for the company while the onboard technology and performance have hit a new benchmark for Lamborghini.

The pros of this car are that it still has a V-12 engine, it is incredibly quick, and has updated interior tech. The con is, it’s not parked in our driveway.

Exterior

The design of this beast has a similar flow and looks to the Aventador and the Sian, making it look like a spaceship on four wheels, just as past V12 Lamborghinis have managed to do.

Lamborghini’s head of design, Mitja Borkert confesses that the Panigale superbike produced by Lamborghini’s sister company, Ducati, served as inspiration for the Revuelto design.

Features:

70 color options available
Hooded Y-shaped daytime running lights
Huge air intakes behind the doors
Massive air channels on each side (which Borkert describes as “aero wings”)

The air intake ducts to the cylinders have been reengineered to increase the supply of air and guarantee optimal airflow in the combustion chamber.

Rims

Front: 20 x 9.5j (21 x 9.5j optional)
Rear: 21 x 12j (22 x 12.5j optional)

Tyres

Front: 265/35 ZR20 – Potenza Sport Runflat (265/30 ZR21 – Runflat optional)
Rear: 345/30 ZR21 – Potenza Sport Runflat (355/25 ZR22 – Runflat optional)

Run-flat technology allows drivers to continue driving safely even after a puncture for at least 80km at 80 km/h.

Stopping power is provided by the latest generation of CCB Plus (Carbon Ceramic Brakes Plus).

In place of the previous Aventador Ultimae’s 400x38mm discs, the front calipers now have ten pistons rather than six. The rear calipers have four pistons and 390x32mm discs (in place of the previous 380x38mm). For improved braking performance, temperature control, and acoustic comfort, discs are wrapped with a friction layer.

The V12 engine is visible through the rear engine cover
Center-exit exhaust tailpipes
Moving aerodynamic rear wing

Monofusolage

You must be thinking, “what on earth is Monofusolage?”, and so were we. Well, according to Lamborghini, it’s a monocoque made completely of multi-technology carbon fiber. In addition, the Revuelto has a front structure constructed of Forged Composites, a unique material comprised of short carbon fibers dipped in resin.

The Revuelto is the first super sports car to be fitted with a 100% carbon fiber front structure which is a significant step forward from the Aventador in terms of torsional stiffness, lightweight qualities and driving dynamics. Its monofuselage is 10% lighter than the Aventador chassis, and the front frame is 20% lighter than its aluminum predecessor.

Power and Performance

Three electric motors are added to the 6.5-liter V-12 mid-mounted engine. Two electric motors on the front axle which allow torque vectoring under both power and regenerative braking. The third motor is integrated into the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which is now mounted behind the combustion engine.

From the Countach era, the transmission tunnel has been replaced with a lithium-ion battery that drives the electric motors.

Performance features:

V-12 HPEV powertrain
Max power (Combined ICE+EE) – 1015 CV (1001 HP)
725 Nm of Torque
Electric four-wheel drive
Dual front and single rear electric motors
Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Four-wheel steering
3.8-kWh battery pack
Electric torque vectoring
Max speed of 350 km/h
0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds
Lightweight high-power lithium-ion battery

It can be recharged using both ordinary domestic alternating and charging column current up to seven kW in power and recharges to 100% in just 30 minutes. It can also be recharged under regenerative braking from the front wheels or directly from the V12 engine in just six minutes.

The new hybrid powertrain makes it possible to maximize the electric motor support and introduce new driving modes, including electric 4WD, for a total of 13 different driving experiences. Yes, you read that right, 13 different driving experiences. Sadly it doesn’t come with a “Malaysian Roads” driving mode that adjusts to the uncountable number of pot-holes we have.

Interior and Features

Now the Revuelto features an “updated tech” interior. What does that mean?

It means the car comes with a 12.3′ instrument cluster, an 8.4′ center display, and an additional 9.1′ display to make up its brand-new Human Machine Interface (HMI) system. With 3D visuals, animations, widgets, and style, the system gives out a more modern appearance. And yes, it also comes with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Using a two-finger swipe movement, you can move infotainment content either to the instrument cluster or to the passenger display. Using a similar gesture, the system can memorize favorite features so they are just a touch away.

The new steering wheel’s design was motivated by the pilot-like sensation that may be achieved while using a Squadra Corse race car’s steering.

The navigation system is entirely redesigned and developed, using maps downloaded in real-time to ensure they are always updated for the areas required. Route calculation and the search mechanism are now significantly faster using online servers.

The car has been provided with upgrades to add new material via the integrated Over-the-Air software update system. The upgraded system facilitates updating the functionality of the instrument panel, passenger display, and infotainment display.

The interaction between the car and the owner continues even after the engine is switched off. Using the Lamborghini Unica mobile application, the owner can constantly monitor the car’s status including the fuel level, battery charge, electric range and its exact position when parked.

The Unica app also allows a series of remote operations, such as locking and unlocking doors, sounding the horn or activating the car’s lights, some functions are also available with the Apple Watch. The owner is in control of his car even when driven by another.

Maximum speed parameters can be set, as well as hourly and usage limits via geolocation. If the car exceeds a set speed, exceeds the limits of a set area, or is used beyond a certain time, the owner is warned via the app.

For the first time, Revuelto sees Lamborghini implementing a complete ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System). This includes things like:

Active Lane Departure Warning (ALDW)
Lane Change Warning (LCW)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Auto Adaptive low beam for the headlights

You can customize the interior of his car by opting for a balanced mix of leather and Corsa-Tex, or favor one material depending on your preference.

Although the price is yet to be finalized by Lamborghini, the first two years of production are already fully booked


Seventh Skoda student concept car project underway

Skoda, the Czech carmaker has been training and developing talent for more than 90 years at its Vocational School in Mlada Boleslav. In the first year, 58 students began their training in three different specialist areas. Today, more than 900 students (13% female) are enrolled in 13 full-time courses and three postgraduate programmes at the Skoda Academy.

The quality of training will be put to the test in the seventh Skoda student concept car project. 20 students from the academy are involved in the ambitious project this year. They have decided to design and build an open-top Spider version of the new compact Scala model.

Watching and learning from the professionals

At a workshop in the Skoda Design department, the participants met the company’s Head Designer, Oliver Stefani, and put their first ideas down on paper with him and his team. The still-unnamed project car, which the students will be constructing according to the design, will be presented to the public in early June.

During the visit, they were allowed to watch Stefani and his team in their day-to-day work and to create their own drawings. “Despite the increasing use of computers and simulations, drawing is still an essential part of automotive designers’ work. With every stroke, an idea turns into something real. A sketch is the first of many steps on the long and exciting path to a new car,” explained Stefani.

Support from engineers

Throughout this project, the up-and-coming talent will receive support from engineers and experienced employees from the areas of technical development, design and production within the company. The apprentices have expressed a wish to make the car’s clear lines and emotive shapes more prominent in the spider version to emphasize the vehicle’s overall dynamics.

“From the beginning, all the participants showed great enthusiasm and determination. Their sketches are very impressive, I really like the concept,” said Jiri Hadascok, exterior design coordinator at Skoda, adding that the professionals were impressed with their enthusiasm and receptiveness.

The Scala model which the students’ concept car is adapted from.

Designing a concept vehicle and then building it by hand is the highlight of all apprenticeships. “We are all delighted to be part of this project. As a student, where else do you get the chance to put your own ideas and vision into designing a car and then actually build it yourself? Drawing our first sketches was lots of fun, and we learned a lot from Oliver Stefani and his team,” said one of the participants, Vojtech Spitalsky.

Latest sketches of Skoda VISION IN concept reveal the design of new compact SUV for India


Budget 2020 highlights for the auto sector and highway-users

RM50 million will be allocated for the repair and maintenance of roads leading to Port Klang so as to make it a regional maritime centre and a cargo logistic hub. The Transport Ministry is also conducting a feasibility study for a Klang Logistic Corridor which will be a new logistic highway to connect Northport, Westport and existing highways. Together with another proposal for a Serendah-Port Klang rail bypass, the two projects are expected to cost RM8.3 billion.

RM25 million will be allocated to set up contestable matching grant fund to support more pilot projects on digital applications such as autonomous vehicles, drone delivery, and blockchain technology.

Average toll charges will be reduced by 18% on all PLUS highways, saving users up to RM1.13 billion in 2020, and a total of RM43 billion until 2038 when the concession expires. PLUS-managed highways include the North-South Expressway (NSE), New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), Seremban-Port Dickson Expressway (SPDH), North-South Expressway Central Link (ELITE), Malaysia-Singapore Second Link Highway (Linkedua), the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE), East-Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), and the Penang Bridge.

Additionally, 4 Klang Valley highways acquired by the government will see a 30% drop in toll fares during non-peak hours (but likely to be higher during peak hours). The highways are Shah Alam Highway (KESAS), Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP), Sprint Expressway (SPRINT), and SMART Tunnel (SMART). These four highways will not have toll charges from midnight until dawn.

The toll rate for the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge or Second Penang bridge will be reduced to RM7 from RM8.50 (for Class 1 vehicles) from January 1, 2020. This will make the rate similar to the first Penang Bridge. Down south, RM85 million will be allocated to address the congestion problem at the Johor Bahru Causeway and Second Link.

The government is firm on moving to B20 biodiesel for the transportation sector at the end of 2020. This will have a positive impact on the oil palm industry as the expected volume is 500,000 tonnes a year.

The petrol subsidy programme (PSP) was announced recently and will be implemented from January 2020. Eligible recipients are those registered for BSH and they will get RM30 per month for car owners and RM12 per month for motorcycle owners. The Finance Minister also mentioned a second group which will get a ‘Kad95’ that entitled them to a subsidy on RON95 petrol at 30 sen less per litre (maximum 100 litres/month for cars, 40 litres/month for motorcycles). Details of ‘Kad95’ and criteria for qualification are not known. The fuel subsidy will only be made available when the market price (based on the APM) for RON95 petrol rises above RM2.08/litre.

Up to RM1 billion will be spent to improve roads around the country; of this, RM326 million will be used in Sabah and RM224 million for Sarawak. The Pan Borneo Highway project is still continuing but the project costs RM1.2 billion less due to cost-savings.

The government will spend RM450 million on the purchase of 500 electric buses for public transport use in cities. There are already 10 electric buses, each costing RM2 million, which have been going around Putrajaya for the past few years.

RM20 million will be allocated for the development of eSports, a growing international activity. UMW Toyota Motor was the first local car company to become involved in eSports with its GR Velocity eSports Championship in 2018 and a second season in 2019.


Sime Darby Auto Connexion Opens New Ford Centre In Kuching

Ford fans in E.M’sia take note! Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC),
Ford Motor Company
’s exclusive distribution partner in Malaysia, celebrated the opening of a new Ford dealer facility,
Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching)
 recently.

The Kuching showroom is designed in accordance with
Ford’s global Brand@Retail
 standard, housing sales, service and spare parts
 (3S)
 under one roof to meet the full range of customers’ needs. Located on Rock Road in Kuching, the
2,033
 square-metre facility features a six-vehicle showroom and
13-vehicle service bays
 with vehicle hoists. The facility also includes a dedicated customer service lounge with complimentary
Wi-Fi
, where customers can enjoy hot beverages and snacks while waiting for their service appointments.

“Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching) is the latest proof point in our network expansion and customer service enhancement plan, helping support Ford’s fast-growing customer base in East Malaysia,”
 said
Syed Ahmad Muzri Bin Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

“Every aspect of this facility has been designed to provide an unmatched customer service and ownership experience, with convenience, efficiency and comfort.”
Muzri added.

The new facility is staffed by certified technicians and equipped with the most up-to-date diagnostic equipment and special tools to provide Ford Authorised Service, and maintain a full supply of genuine spare parts.

All Ford Sime Darby Auto Connexion (Kuching) employees, including technicians, sales and service staff have received globally recognised hands-on training to develop their expertise and serve customers’ needs.

“The new facility reaffirms our belief that the quality of the ownership experience we provide is just as important as the quality of our world-class Ford vehicles,”
 said
Truong Kim Phong, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company.
“Together with our trusted partner Sime Darby Auto Connexion, it is our top priority to ensure that customers get the best service at every step of their ownership experience.”

The Kuching showroom is strategically located at
Lot 19, Block 10, 1 ½ Mile, Rock Road, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak
. The showroom is open from 8:30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 8:30am-12:30pm on Saturday, while the service centre’s opening hours are 8:00am-5:00pm from Monday to Friday and 8:00am-12:00pm on Saturday.

For more information, call the Kuching Showroom hotlines – showroom 082-523-855, service centre 082-523-655, or visit
www.sdacford.com.my
.


Official Photos Of The New Proton Persona Released!

The first official photos of the face lifted
Proton Persona
, PROTON’s B-segment family sedan, have been released. Set to be launched soon the Persona, together with its sister car the Proton Iriz, are the first models in the Company’s current range to be given an extensive exterior refresh since the commencement of the collaboration with Geely in 2017. The new exterior lines portray an image of intelligent connectivity coupled with elegant aesthetics with subtle updates that make the Persona stand out from its predecessor. It also carries PROTON’s new family design elements that will be present on all future models to visually link them together.

At the front, the Persona is the recipient of a new outer grille whose shape is inspired by the
“Ethereal Bow”
 that debuted on the
Proton X70
. The radiator grille meanwhile incorporates the
“Infinite Weave”
 pattern sculpted into its design and sits on top of a redesigned front bumper. Sleek new LED daytime running lamps (DRL) are housed over a honeycomb mesh backing while a new bumper lower garnish ties together the new design elements of the front bumper and frames the lower air intake more elegantly.

Move to the rear and the most noticeable change are the PROTON name proudly spelled out on the trunk lid garnish and the removal of the brand logo. A new bumper lower garnish enhances the rear visual identity while a slimmer spoiler adds an unexpected sporting touch. Finally, the Persona name badge receives a new bolder and more flowing typeface in keeping with the overall exterior styling theme. A new 15-inch aluminium wheel design and a shark fin antenna provide the final exterior styling touches.

Touted as an intelligent family car, the Proton Persona will be equipped with a colour touch screen for access to connectivity options as well as voice command functions. A development of the system used on the Proton X70 and developed by PROTON and
ECARX
, the Persona will be the first B-segment family sedan to offer such an advanced system to Malaysian car buyers shopping for a new car in its price range. More information on the infotainment system and the technical specifications of the Proton Persona will be released closer to the launch date.


The Porsche Experience Centre Sepang Records Yet Another Successful Run In 2018 [+Video]

The Porsche Experience Centre (PEC) Sepang enjoyed its most successful year ever in 2018 with an unprecedented number of track days as well as a record number of participants coming through its doors. From 41 track days, PEC Sepang welcomed 668 participants and more than 800 visitors, making the facility the main hub for the Porsche Experience in Southeast Asia.

The Porsche World Road Show (PWRS) kicked off the year, followed by the regional media launch of the Cayenne. Various Track Experiences took place thereafter, including the Media Driving Academy where Porsche invested in sharpening the driving skills of journalists. However, the highlight events for the PEC Sepang were the Cayman GT4 Clubsport MR and the 911 GT3 Cup Car trainings, which were born from a desire to further develop motorsport in the region, in response to the strong demand from enthusiasts. The 911 GT3 Cup Car training in particular was held for the first time in Southeast Asia.

https://www.piston.my/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/PAP18_0467_HD.mp4

The year wrapped up with the inaugural E-Performance Nights media event that took advantage of the night lights of the Sepang International Circuit. With this event, the PEC Sepang made history as the first Porsche Experience location operating for nearly 24 hours in a day. At this highly unique event, the PEC Sepang also collaborated with Samsung Electronics for the very first time, showcasing the state-of-the-art Samsung LED for Home (IF1.2) display, Flip, 65” UHD Smart Signage and a 49″ Curved Monitor to both media and customers for a better viewing and video analysis experience.

For all of these events, the most impressive PEC Sepang car pool ever was employed, which included cars as varied and exciting as the 911 Carrera T, 911 GT3, 718 Boxster GTS, Cayenne Turbo, Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and 918 Spyder.

Marc Beil, Marketing Event Manager at Porsche Asia Pacific
, who is also responsible for the day-to-day operations of the PEC Sepang, said:
“It has been a packed year but we have enjoyed every single moment at the PEC Sepang, especially how we have found and harnessed the talent of motorsport enthusiasts to have the Cayman GT4 Clubsport MR and the 911 GT3 Cup Car trainings the first time in Southeast Asia. I would like to say a big thank you to all of the participants – fans, customers, Porsche Club members and journalists alike – who have contributed to the most successful year ever for us. I am looking forward to an even greater 2019 with more fantastic Porsche Experience events and a brand new fleet of high-performance Porsche vehicles. I would encourage anybody who has not joined us yet at PEC Sepang to get in touch, as our slots run out really quickly.”

Making another wish come true at the PEC Sepang

Besides its everyday business, the PEC Sepang also showed its softer side by delivering the ultimate dream for a wish child in collaboration with Make-A-Wish
®
 Malaysia. This was another milestone in a series of successful collaborations with Make-A-Wish
®
 in Singapore and Thailand.

Yogan, an 11-year old diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, has a great fascination for fast cars, and shares a collection of toy racing cars with his younger brother. Yogan’s ultimate wish is to meet Superman, and to fly alongside with his superhero while fighting crime and upholding justice in society. Although this momentous meeting was delayed due to Superman’s busy schedule saving the world, the thrill of zooming around a racetrack in a Porsche was the closest experience possible to Yogan’s dream.

One of Superman’s abilities is that he is faster than a speeding bullet; thus, the Porsche 911 Turbo S with 580 hp and a 0-100 km/h acceleration of merely 2.9 seconds was the perfect car to deliver a thrilling ride around the Sepang International Circuit for Yogan, with Porsche Works Driver Earl Bamber behind the wheel.

Yogan spent a wonderful afternoon sharing his passion for cars with Earl Bamber, who piloted the Porsche 919 Hybrid to victory in Le Mans 2015 and again in 2017. Like Yogan, who is bravely fighting his disease against all odds, Earl’s meteoric achievements also belies his humble beginnings growing up on a farm on North Island, New Zealand.

Set for further growth in 2019

In 2019, the PEC Sepang is set to offer more premium events, including the Track Experience and the Porsche Motorsport GT Day that offer money-can’t-buy experiences with rarefied sports cars like the 911 GT3 Cup and the 911 GT3 RS. Supporting this, it will boast a brand new fleet of Porsche vehicles that will include legends such as the 911 GT3 RS and the new 911, introduced just recently in its World Premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

One significant role that the PEC Sepang will play is being an E-Performance competence centre, focusing on the increasing electrification of the Porsche model range. Besides plug-in hybrid Porsche vehicles which are already available in the market, such as the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the fully-electric Taycan will make its debut in the region in the beginning of 2020.

For more information and to register your interest for PEC Sepang experiences, please visit the website here:
www.porsche.com/experienceAPAC


LEGO releases first ever Jeep SUV model

LEGO, the Danish company well known for its plastic bricks that can form various objects, has a range of vehicles in its line-up. However, it may surprise you to know that there has never been a Jeep model in its catalogue. But that omission has now been rectified with the first-ever LEGO model of the iconic American SUV.

Jeep and the LEGO Group have revealed the newest LEGO Technic Jeep Wrangler Rubicon which will go on sale from January 2021. Available for purchase online as well as stores globally, it will have a price which, in Europe, will be 49.99 euros (about RM246).

665 pieces with 4×4 drivetrain

The new model of this SUV, which has a heritage going back to World War II, will provide a thrilling building experience for LEGO fans of all ages. It comes with the high-performance 4×4 drivetrain, rugged tyres, fold-down rear seats, full-size spare wheel and classic 7-slot grille in LEGO Technic form. The vehicle is finished in sporty yellow and black colour scheme.

Once the 665 pieces are brought together as a complete 240 mm long vehicle, builders can create endless off-road adventures. A button-operated front steering system, powerful axle-articulation suspension and winch will enable to SUV model to tackle and cross all types of obstacles inside the home or outside.

”The Jeep Wrangler is an icon in the off-road world,” said Lars Thygesen, designer, LEGO Technic. “The Rubicon has a lot of the iconic details loved by 4×4 fans the world over, so it was important to me to pack as many of the authentic, powerful features of the real vehicle into the LEGO Technic replica. I hope LEGO fans and vehicle lovers enjoy all aspects, including the suspension, winch and open-air design that we developed alongside the talented Jeep design team.”

“Ask any Jeep Wrangler owner and they’ll tell you that their vehicle is just a bigger version of this new LEGO set,” said Mark Allen, head of Jeep design. “The design of the Jeep Wrangler allows them to take it apart, top off, doors off, reconfigure it, add new pieces from our Mopar team, and then put it back together again. This LEGO Technic Jeep Wrangler should bring a new level of joy to our Jeep enthusiasts and help inspire future designers to the brand.”

Most powerful Wrangler

Meanwhile, Jeep has launched its Wrangler Rubicon 392 as the most-capable, quickest, most powerful Wrangler ever. Powered by a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 producing up to 470 bhp/637 Nm, the 2021 model is claimed to be able to go from standing still to 0 mph (96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds. It is fitted with a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission and Selec-Trac full-time active transfer case for 4-wheel drive.

The addition of the 6.4-litre engine marks the first time in nearly 40 years that a V-8 has been a factory option for the Wrangler. Tuned specifically for the Wrangler Rubicon 392 (the number refers to the engine capacity in cubic inches), nearly 75% of peak torque is available just above engine idle speed.

Although the engine has a cast iron cylinder block (but aluminium heads), it has the latest technologies such as an active intake manifold, variable camshaft timing, twin spark plugs per cylinder, sodium-filled exhaust valves, hollow-stem intake valves and piston oil cooling jets.

For those who have concerns about fuel consumption (which Jeep has not provided yet), the engine has Fuel Saver Technology which deactivates cylinders when conditions permit. The engine can go into a more economical 4-cylinder mode when loads are light, such as when cruising on the highway.

The even more environmentally-conscious who still want to own the iconic SUV can have a clear conscience too with the 4xe versions of the Wrangler (top), Renegade and Compass. These have plug-in hybrid powertrains with lithium-ion battery packs. The Wrangler 4xe powertrain uses a 2-litre turbocharged engine with a motor generator has a system output of produces 375 bhp/637 Nm. The Compass and Renegade models have a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine that can produce up to 240 bhp. Coupled with an electric motor, 0 to 100 km/h acceleration is claimed to be less than 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 200 km/h (in hybrid mode).

Click here to read about other LEGO models


Liberty Walk McLaren 650S to be at London Motor Show

At the upcoming London Motor Show, which will take place from 4th to 7th May 2017, something rather special will be on display. A customized McLaren 650S built by Japanese tuning company Liberty Walk. The same car that received a lot of attention at the recent Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland.

Compared to the original, this supercar’s exterior has been extensively reworked to include unique Liberty Walk body styling and livery as well as a new front bumper, side diffuser, rear bumper, massive elevated rear wing and wide fender. Though many supercar fans might consider modifying an already perfect exterior as pure sacrilege, the new look and striking paint scheme does grab one’s attention, somewhat.

Speaking of the latest addtion to the London Motorshow, Alec Mumford, Chairman of The London Motor Show, said: “We are delighted to welcome Liberty Walk and can’t wait to see the McLaren 650S in Battersea Park in all its glory. These guys really know how to add drama to an already dramatic car, and they certainly have enough in their armory to be a star of the show. Liberty Walk will invite a new, youthful audience to The London Motor Show and we are very excited for them to set up here.”

The 650S won’t be the only vehicle representing Liberty Walk, two other models will also be on display as well as something special. Exactly what that entails is completely open to debate but to know more, we will have to wait for the London Motor Show. For more information on the show visit the London Motor Show website at
www.thelondonmotorshow.co.uk
.


2021 Perodua Aruz gets updates without any Price increases

Every Perodua model is selling well, with models like the Ativa having a long waiting list of customers. The carmaker could probably get away with not making changes or improving the products and the demand would still be there. However, adhering to the Japanese philosophy of kaizen passed on from their partner, Daihatsu Motor, Perodua constantly improves its products.

So, for the Aruz, Malaysia’s best-selling 7-seater SUV, updating has taken place – but without any price changes. The Aruz X is still
RM68,526
, while the Aruz AV remains at
RM73,226
, excluding insurance and with full sales tax exemption (until June 30, 2021).

Making products incrementally better

“With well over 60,000 units sold since its 2019 birth, the Perodua Aruz was already the nation’s best-selling SUV in 2019 and 2020, but, true to the principles of k
aizen
, we believe there are always ways we can make our products incrementally better,” said Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President & CEO of Perodua.

“This incremental adaptation of the Aruz is in line with the Perodua Smart Build blueprint; another example of our symbiotic collaboration with our suppliers to customise our products to better suit Malaysian needs and wants, and through this, developing further the capabilities of our suppliers towards true self-reliance,” he said.

The improvements are in the form of additional features such as side steps below the door sills. With the extra ground clearance of the Aruz, the sill is a bit higher than in a passenger car so for some people, especially elderly folks or little ones, getting in and out may not be easy. The side steps will therefore help and make movement safer and more convenient.

Custom-designed side-steps have been added below the door sills. They are thoughtfully designed with no gap that could trap feet, and  two areas moulded with studs to make the surface less slippery.

Added safety feature + new colour

An added safety feature for 2021 is automatic door-locking; when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 20 km/h, the doors will lock automatically. This is a safety precaution, especially for those who may forget to do so. In the event of a severe collision that sensors will detect, the locking system will automatically unlock all doors so that the occupants can get out or rescuers can open the doors to help extract them.

Those who like red cars will be happy to know that Perodua now offers this colour, known as Passion Red, exclusively for the Aruz AV. Other colours choices are Granite Grey, Electric Blue, Glittering Silver and Ivory White.

“Perodua expresses our gratitude to all our valued customers, whose feedback helped us tweak the Aruz to better satisfy the real needs and wants of the majority of Malaysians,” added Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

Technical specs remain the same

Other specifications and features remain the same, with the continued use of the all-aluminium 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine and an electronically-controlled automatic transmission. With Eco Idle activated, the fuel consumption can be as good as 15.6 kms/litre, it is claimed.

The Aruz is also tops in safety as it has the
maximum 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating
. Six airbags and Vehicle Stability Control are standard, and the AV variant has Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 2.0 to help the driver avoid accidents.

To locate a showroom to check out the Aruz and other Perodua models, visit
www.perodua.com.my
.

Lower-priced childseat now offered by Perodua


Weight of Modern EVs Could Collapse Old Parking Buildings

According to a report published in a British newspaper, old parking structures that date back to the ’60s, ’70s or ’80s could be susceptible to collapse if too many EV’s are to park in the upper levels.

This is due to the weight of the EV’s and the batteries each has to lug around in order for it to produce a decent range.

The report suggests that most parking buildings would have gone through rough weather which may have left them damaged from the inside.

Some are well taken care of and some have been neglected in their maintenance schedule. With EV productions rising, what would happen if dozens of these behemoths park at old structures every single day?

With the sales of EV’s picking up everywhere, can you imagine if a hundred heavy EVs were parked on a single floor daily? Eventually, the structure is bound to give way when its limits have been pushed.

An average car from back in the ’60s weighed in around 1360kg. A Tesla, for example, weighs around 2249 kg. That’s 889 kgs more and to make things worse, a GMC Hummer EV weighs in at 4103 kgs. Holy mammoth!

These are concerning numbers as there aren’t many newly-built parking structures except for the ones at new shopping malls.

Therefore, these monsters on wheels may turn to park at old parking buildings.

These decaying infrastructures are a global issue and must be addressed quickly or these infrastructure owners may find themselves in a mess. Over in the UK, the British Parking Association (BPA) is preparing to release new guidance on the issue.

“I don’t want to be too alarmist, but there definitely is the potential for some of the early car parks in poor condition to collapse,” said Structural engineer Chris Whapples. Structural inspections can help find issues before a parking garage collapses, so maintenance is very important.

In order to prevent these issues, parking structures could impose weight restrictions on bigger vehicles or lower the number of parking spaces.

The BPA is also updating its design recommendations. It will now advise that concrete car park floors should have a design loading limit of 306kg of load per square meter, up from 255kg previously.

Every parking structure should be maintained frequently, and those driving these mammoths, think twice before parking on upper levels of older buildings.

We frequent One Utama, so all you EV drivers, please park in the basement.


Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance to spend 23 billion euros on massive electrification push

In the late 1990s, the ‘merger of equals’ between Chrysler and Daimler led to the start of the mega corporations in the auto industry. The new company was the result of the largest industrial merger ever, worth US$130 billion in 1998. While DaimlerChrysler lasted less than 10 years, it set in motion a rush of mergers in the industry and the next group to come together was Renault and Nissan, forming an alliance in 1999. The Alliance helped to save Nissan from financial collapse which went on to become a successful partnership with shared resources during the 2000s.

In 2016, it was Nissan’s turn to help save another manufacturer – Mitsubishi Motors (MMC) – which lacked scale to progress healthily. With Nissan acquiring a 34% controlling stake in MMC, the smaller company was able to become a ‘junior partner’ in the Alliance.

One of the Alliance’s most competitive advantages is its ability to strengthen its members by sharing what each one is best at. This approach has allowed each company acquire and use new technologies while reducing costs, lowering prices and thus increasing business performance. For example, shared resources (60% of its models use common platforms) have helped the company focus on other areas of innovation.

Nissan has had over 10 years of experience in developing and mass-producing electric vehicles. It started with sales of the LEAF in 2010 in many countries, including Malaysia, where Edaran Tan Chong Motor used its own funds to introduce the public to zero emission motoring.

The sharing will continue in a bigger way as the Alliance has announced more common projects and actions to accelerate and to shape their shared future towards 2030, focusing on the mobility value chain. The trio will use a common roadmap to 2030 on pure-EV and Intelligent & Connected mobility, with massive investments that none could make alone.

“Among the world’s automotive leaders, the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance is a proven, unique model. For 22 years, we have been building on our respective cultures and strengths for our common benefit,” said Jean-Dominique Senard, Chairman of the Alliance. “Today, the Alliance is accelerating to lead the mobility revolution and deliver more value to customers, our people, our shareholders and all our stakeholders. The three member-companies have defined a common roadmap towards 2030, sharing investments in future electrification and connectivity projects.

Moving forward together

The Alliance members have developed a ‘smart differentiation’ methodology that defines the desired level of commonality for each vehicle, integrating several parameters of possible pooling, such as platforms, production plants, powertrains or vehicle segment. This is supplemented and enhanced by a stricter approach to design and upper-body differentiation. For example, the common platform for the C and D segment will carry 5 models from the 3 brands of the Alliance (Nissan Qashqai and X-Trail, Mitsubishi Outlander, Renault Austral and an upcoming 7-seater SUV).

Strengthening this process, the Alliance members will enhance usage of common platforms in the coming years from 60% today to more than 80% of its combined 90 models during the next 4 years. As part of this, MMC will reinforce its presence in Europe with two new models, among them the new ASX based on Renault models.

5 common EV platforms

Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi have been pioneers in the EV market, having begun offering products even before the acceleration began in recent years. Nissan, for example, began selling the fully electric LEAF in 2010 which has today become the volume leader globally. In the main markets (Europe, Japan, the US, China), 15 Alliance plants already produce parts, motors, batteries for 10 EV models, with more than 1 million EV cars sold so far and 30 billion e-kilometres driven. To date, the Alliance has invested more than 10 billion euros in the field of electrification.

Building on this long expertise, the Alliance will accelerate its EV business by adding a total of 23 billion euros during the next 5 years on electrification. This investment will see 35 new EV models by 2030. 90% of these models will be based on 5 common platforms, covering most markets, in all major regions

The first models to use the CMF-EV platform are the Nissan Ariya (above) and Renault Megane E-TECH to go on sale this year.

There will be platforms for small models as well as large light commercial vehicles, with the CMF-EV being  the global and flexible platform fully engineered for EVs. It is already being used as the base for the Nissan Ariya EV crossover and Renault Megane E-Tech Electric, and its modularity allows the Alliance partners to develop for a new generation of EVs.

The platform has been created to integrate and optimize all the elements specific to a 100% electric powertrain, hosting a new, high-performance motor and an ultra-thin battery. By 2030, more than 15 models will be based on the CMF-EV platform, with up to 1.5 million vehicles produced on this platform each year.

The CMFB-EV,  to be launched in 2024, will be the most competitive compact electric platform in the world, it is claimed. It will be able to provide up to 400 kms range from a fully-charged battery pack, thanks for efficient aerodynamic performance. Power consumption will also be more than 10% lower than the current Renault ZOE, while the cost will be lower by 33%.

Concept model of the reborn Renault 5 that will be electrically powered.

The next Nissan Micra will also use the compact CMFB-EV platform that the Renault 5 rides on.

This platform will be the base for 250,000 vehicles a year under the Renault, Alpine and Nissan brands. Among the new models will be the Renault R5 and a new compact EV that will replace the Nissan Micra. Designed by Nissan and engineered by Renault, the new model is planned to be manufactured at Renault ElectriCity, and electric industrial centre in northern France.

Common battery strategy

Battery technology and production are key elements in electrification strategies and with breakthrough battery innovations and a planned 220 GWh production capacity, the Alliance expects to bring a highly competitive and attractive offer to all customers. Competitiveness is key, and that can be achieved with a common battery strategy which will see (in core markets), Renault and Nissan using a common battery supplier so volumes will be higher for better economies of scale. The aim, with common partners, will be to reduce battery costs by 50% in 2026 and 65% by 2028.

Beyond that, the Alliance shares a common vision for all-solid-state battery technology (ASSB). Based on its deep expertise and unique experience as a pioneer in battery technology, Nissan will lead innovations in this area that will benefit all Alliance members. ASSB will have double the energy density versus current liquid lithium-ion batteries, while recharging time could be be greatly reduced to one-third of today’s time.


Honda showrooms closed but service centres will still operate

With a full lockdown Movement Control Order (MCO) to run from June 1 to June 14, 2021, many businesses are required to stop operations and these include car companies. In connection with this directive, Honda Malaysia has announced that its main business operations will remain closed for the period.

The business operations involved are the company’s  assembly plant in Pegoh (Melaka), sales office and authorised dealer showrooms nationwide. However, aftersales services are permitted so owners can send their vehicles to authorised Honda service centres nationwide. Aftersales services available are preventive maintenance, Body and Paint (BP) and towing assistance.

Showrooms will be closed for 2 weeks (tentatively) but service centres will continue to operate.

Honda Malaysia encourages owners to use the
HondaTouch application
 to make their appointments at the service centres. They should not just go to the service centres without a prior appointment as this will not be entertained so appointments must be made in advance. It should also be noted that there is a restriction on the range that they can travel which is 10 kms from their home, so they should locate the nearest authorised service centre.

All Honda dealerships strictly adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specified by the health authorities for the safety of Honda customers and company associates as well as to provide customers  peace of mind when visiting the dealerships.

To locate a Honda dealership near you, visit
www.honda.com.my/dealers
.


Highlights of the Lamborghini Huracan STO (w/VIDEO)

The latest Lamborghini to be announced, with deliveries starting later in 2021, is the Huracan STO (Super Trofeo Omologata), a road-homologated super sportscar inspired by Lamborghini racing cars. These include the Huracan EVO Super Trofeo developed by Lamborghini Squadra Corsa for the brand’s own race series, as well as the Huracan EVO GT3, 3-time winner of the 24 Hours of Daytona and 2-time winner of the 12 Hours of Sebring.

With its 640 bhp/565 Nm naturally-aspirated V10 engine, the rear-wheel drive Huracan STO is said to take just 3 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, reaching 200 km/h in another 6 seconds, and on to a claimed top speed of 310 km/h.

As with other Lamborghini models, it has racing car DNA with superior aerodynamic efficiency, extensive use of lightweight materials, and first-class braking performance.

‘Made in Lamborghini’ design solution

The term ‘Cofango’ derives from the fusion of two Italian words:
cofano
 (bonnet) and
parafango
(fender), created by Automobili Lamborghini to describe the design solution in which the bonnet, fenders and front bumper are integrated into a single component.

This innovative system created by Lamborghini engineers was inspired by the Miura and the more recent Sesto Elemento; applied to the STO, it is made entirely of very light carbonfibre. The key for opening the fastenings on the STO’s Cofango is unique: it was developed in-house by the R&D team and made using an innovative 3D printing technique.

Incidentally, the confango is one of over 2,750 components that make up the latest Lamborghini model.

Dynamic pit stop in just 3 seconds

There is not much that can be changed in 3 seconds, but the set-up of the Huracan STO is one. Three new driving modes – STO (normal driving), Trofeo (race mode) and Pioggia (raining or wet) – adapt the set-up of the car to match high-performance driving environments. The Huracan STO allows the driver to experience a dynamic pit stop, as if a team of mechanics were right there!

3 times around the world in simulator tests

Lamborghini’s R&D team drove a distance equivalent to 3 times around the world in simulator tests before even covering the first kilometre of the Huracan STO’s road tests. State-of-the-art simulator technology allowed the engineers to save time on quality control, lead times, and emissions by verifying that every part of the car fully complied with standards during different stages of the STO’s development, certifying and testing.

25,000 lines of code

Connectivity is a big thing nowadays and the occupants must be provided with various ways to connect to the infotainment system, The Huracan STO also has connectivity in the form of an advanced connected telemetry system. This link between car’s on-board cameras, Connected Cloud Lamborghini and the App Lamborghini UNICA allows, thanks to an intuitive data analysis system and videos enriched with dedicated widgets, to transform the exclusive App dedicated to Lamborghini customers into a real track engineer. The development of this technology on the Lamborghini UNICA App required more than 25,000 lines of code.

“The extensive technical solutions and intelligence gained from both our Super Trofeo and GT3 programs have been refined and embodied in the Huracan STO, allowing the driver to experience the emotions of a racing driver, daily, in a road-legal Lamborghini super sportscar able to set lap records,” said Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer, of the car which costs 249,412 euros (about RM1.21 million).

SC20 by Lamborghini Squadra Corse – a road-legal track car


Why the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Turbo is the new king of wagons!

There’s not much to say about the Porsche Panamera which has not been said already. The world knows of its capability and opulence by now. But did you know that it’s name is short for Panamericana? And that it is named after a popular 1950s endurance race that lasted up to six days in Mexico called the Carrera Panamericana in which Porsche was successful in.

And that the world actually got a first glimpse of a four-door Porsche back in 1988, though it was called the 989 back then instead of Panamera (shown below).

Porsche actually spent three years developing the 989, until a halt work order came in at the end of 1991. The fact that a four-door Porsche like the 989, Panamera and the Cayenne infuriated Porsche purists is well documented so we will not repeat that story here, but the four-door models sold well and Porsche kept the purists happy by producing some mega wild cars like the Carrera GT, GT3 RS and the GT2 RS, all of which stood true to Porsche’s roots.

So the company found a way to make money without losing its core values. Some purists even softened up to the four-doors models when it became clear that the Panamera is Porsche’s answer to those who want a performance car with four-door practicality. Simply put, it had the performance of a true to word Porsche and the practicality of a proper sedan.

But the Panamera has been awkwardly limited as far as practicality goes. Instead, it has focused on being a luxury performance car for four people, or even a car to be chauffeured in. It is for the man who knows and loves his cars, but not attacking corners, he prefers to take the back seat in a car made by arguably the world’s best car maker. The Panamera offered all of that.

So, enter the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo – a Panamera that offers performance that rivals modern sports cars and yet also has the style, character and dare we say it, even the practicality of a sports wagon. And for very long the Audi RS6 was the king of that domain, but there’s a new contender for the title of world’s most practical performance car.

Some even suggest that the Sport Turismo is a better Panamera than the Panamera itself. Perhaps because it offers everything the Panamera does, but adds a huge amount of space, lots of style, and retains the Panamera’s touch of luxury and class. Its versatile; you can choose to drive the car, be driven in it, or pack your entire family in it for a long getaway.

Sime Darby Auto Performance, the company in charge of Porsche in Malaysia, may have just officially introduced the car recently, but a small group of journalists were allowed some time behind the wheel of a Sport Turismo Turbo for a blast around the Sepang International Circuit.

The Sport Turismo Turbo is a big, heavy car, so as far as dynamics go it really shouldn’t do very well on a specialised circuit like Sepang. But hey, we live in an era where we are sending robots to explore mars, so it really shouldn’t be very difficult to make a big, heavy car feel as agile as a ballerina on track. And that is exactly what the Sport Turismo Turbo does quite well.

We witnessed for ourselves as the Sport Turismo Turbo hunted down a lightweight Porsche and passed it as if it were standing still. We may have had two-time Le Mans winner Earl Bamber driving the Turbo, but the other Porsche had a half a circuit’s length head start. Not sure who was driving it though.

To be fair, the Sport Turismo Turbo has some trick electronics and a 4.0-litre V8 engine producing 550hp and 700Nm of torque; a true masterpiece of an engine. But that said, this is also the same car in which you can pack the family into and go on a long drive to Phuket. No seriously, you can, with space for the dog too.

Unlike the standard Panamera, the Sport Turismo actually comes with five functional seats and seat belts. But for those who prefer taking life easy in the back seat, the Sport Turismo can also be had with two electric seats at the back. So it can either be a car for captains of industry, or it can be a car for the family. Either way it is brilliant at what it does.

Earl Bamber was at the Sepang Circuit testing his own GT3 Cup Car in which he races in the Carrera Cup race series. He then took some of us for a ride in the Sport Turismo, and though we were allowed to drive the car for a few laps, it was in his hands features like the Rear Axle Steering could truly be felt as his aggressive driving style truly worked the systems. At turn three of the circuit for example, a fast right hander where the car can carry speeds of over 200km/h, the rear felt as if it were on rails. It felt as if it was shadowing the front end instead of trailing behind it, planted.

Of course the rear axle steering system, a feature that turns the rear wheels in the same angle as the front during high speeds, couldn’t have done it by itself. There’s also the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control that manages the body roll of the car in corners as well as the Porsche Traction Management which is an active all-wheel-drive system that sends and cuts power in individual wheels to help maintain maximum grip at all times.

Besides that the car has other neat tricks as well like an adaptive roof-mounted rear spoiler (above). The spoiler works in three stages depending on the driving situation and vehicle setting. It is a central component in the Porsche Active Aerodynamics, and when it stays in a retracted position of minus seven degrees it helps to reduce drag thus optimising fuel consumption. On track and at high speed, the spoiler moves to the performance position with an angle of plus one degree, this helps to increase stability. It also helps to lower the noise in the cabin when the sliding panoramic roof is open. It does this by inclining to a position of plus 26 degrees, keeping the wind noise away from the cabin.

When a car offers plenty of space for occupants and their luggage, we usually call it a practical car. And if a practical car is also incredibly powerful yet agile at the same time, well that’s what we would usually call a once-in-a-lifetime type of car. And if there was one car which we could drive for the rest of our lives, one car that seemingly had it all and more, well, then it would be the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo Turbo. Except that it costs RM1.95 million with taxes but before options.


Singer Vehicle Design All-terrain Competition Study (ACS)

At the request of a long-term client, Singer Vehicle Design has looked to a golden era of Porsche rallying in the 1980s, and to automotive heroes including the 911 SC/RS and the legendary 959, to reimagine his air-cooled 911s as World Rally Championship-inspired, all-terrain competition machines.

Singer doesn’t manufacture or sell cars and its main business is to restore and reimagine 1989 to 1994 Porsche 911s, based on the 964 chassis for its clients. Its latest services will enable clients to go off-road racing, with a Porsche 911 modified by Singer for all-terrain use.

Two machines commissioned

The All-terrain Competition Study (ACS) undertaken by Singer, in partnership with renowned 911 rally specialist Richard Tuthill, in response to the request from their client for modifications to his air-cooled 911 that would enable the car to compete in off-road racing and to demonstrate extensive all-terrain exploration capabilities.

To highlight the broad repertoire of the ACS, the client has commissioned two machines, one – in Singer’s iconic Parallax White – focused on high-speed desert rallying and a second – in Corsica Red – configured for high-speed, high-grip tarmac events and disciplines.

Porsche 911s prepared by UK-based off-road competition specialist Richard Tuthill have dominated rally events for decades, a recent victory being in the 2019 East African Safari Classic. It was a remarkable 4th win in the gruelling 5000-km event across Kenya and Tanzania. These successes sit alongside deep expertise from the world of WRC competition and events such as the Paris-Dakar.

The Porsche 959 in the Paris-Dakar Rally in 1985 and 1986, finishing 1-2 overall in the second year.

Reimagining the iconic Porsches

“We’ve taken particular inspiration from the iconic Rothmans-sponsored 911 SC/RSs and 959s that conquered events like the Qatar International Rally and Paris-Dakar in the mid-1980s and, at the request of our client, have reimagined these all-terrain 911’s in their honour while utilizing fresh perspectives and state of the art know-how,” said Rob Dickinson, Founder & Executive Chairman of  Singer Group Inc.

In developing the Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer ACS, Singer engineers gave it off-road competition capability for events such as the Baja 1000 and Dakar Rally. This called for dramatically increased ride height, suspension travel and overall strength to cope with all kinds of terrain.

Engineered for the roughest terrain

The specialised long-travel suspension has twin, 5-way adjustable dampers per corner (8 dampers total). Forged aluminium 8×16-inch wheels with BF Goodrich All-Terrain tyres are fitted and behind them are 4-piston, monobloc steel disc brakes with a hydraulic handbrake.

The strength designed into the car’s structure and components is a response to the forces  encountered during high-speed, off-road endurance events and pathfinding.

The bodywork has carbonfibre panels not only for their lightness (which offsets the extra weight of the roll-cage) but also quick replacement and easy underbody access. Carbonfibre also allows for curvatures to be formed easily. There is also effective breathing and cooling for the powertrain.

Cabin for off-road racing

Inside, the ACS reflects the demands of off-road racing. FIA specification seats and harnesses sit within a full roll cage. The car is equipped with a race GPS navigation system while both driver and navigator have access to in-seat rehydration systems.

3.6-litre twin turbo engine

As with all Singer’s restoration services for owners of the  911, the car takes the Type 964 generation of air-cooled cars as its starting point. At the heart of the machine is an evolution of the ‘Mezger’ air-cooled flat-six in 3.6-litre, with twin symmetrical turbochargers and fly-by-wire individual throttle bodies.

There is a sequential racing transmission with front, centre and rear limited-slip differentials and permanent AWD. The performance characteristics of the engine can be tuned depending on the demands of competition and the owner.

“We feel confident this machine can appeal to off-roading enthusiasm of all kinds, whether it be in the pursuit of professional competition at the highest level or adventure and exploration. ACS advances Singer’s capabilities in forced-induction, all-wheel drive, off-road ability and dynamic response – all of which will support our ongoing mission. This pursuit of focused competition studies is something you will see more of from us in the future,” said Dickinson.

Prototypes and studies Porsche has never before shown to the public


Bugatti W16 Mistral – The Ultimate Roadster

Well over 40% of all Bugatti vehicles ever created have been open-top in design but in the Chiron era, a roadster was never offered. Therefore, as a farewell to the
legendary W16 powerplant
, Bugatti decided to create a roadster which it has named the W16 Mistral.

“The introduction of the W16 Mistral continues the legacy, and also opens the next chapter in the Bugatti roadster story, inspired by over a century of open-top legends,” said Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac.

Being a very special Chiron, much consideration went into the name it should have. Inspiration came from the mistral, a powerful wind that blows from the Rhone River valley, through the chic towns of the Cote d’Azur in southern France and into the Mediterranean.

Built around the 1,600 ps W16 engine, first used in the Chiron Super Sport 300+, the W16 Mistral offers superlative performance unlike any open-top car. Its design and engineering is completely bespoke. The existing monocoque is not simply cut off above the A-pillars to make way for the new open-top design but has been reengineered and reshaped to create a more rounded silhouette without compromising performance.

“We know the W16 Mistral will always have significance in the story of Bugatti, marking the last time that perhaps the greatest ever automotive powertrain is used in a roadgoing production car. We, as a design team, felt enormous pressure to deliver styling that immediately conveyed this landmark moment, drawing inspiration from some of the most beautiful roadsters in Bugatti history,” said Achim Anscheidt, Bugatti’s Design Director.

As they considered the project, they looked at the 1934 Bugatti Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid (pictured above), a sporting roadster that represented the pinnacle of elegant design. Marked out by its dual aerodynamic headrests, flowing backwards into the bodywork, and a cut down V-shaped windscreen, this particular Grand Raid was effortlessly sophisticated with an understated sportiness. Finished in a duo-tone black and yellow livery, it would provide the perfect inspiration for this watershed moment in the Bugatti story.

The W16 Mistral has colours inspired by the Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid. A warm black with hints of truffle brown and subtle yellow accents can be seen throughout. Not only is it homage to the iconic coachbuilt body, but also to Ettore Bugatti, who chose the black and yellow combination for many of his personal cars.

The open-top hypercar also captures the essence of the Grand Raid’s V-shaped windscreen and evolves it into a modern-day work of art. A curving windscreen that seemingly wraps around the A-pillars, blending seamlessly into the side windows and creating a ‘visor’ effect that hints at the motorsport levels of performance available. The windscreen itself is a marvel of engineering, curved just enough to create the rounded visor design, without distorting the driver’s vision.

The top line of the windscreen and side windows flows purposefully around the side air intakes. This character line then flows back underneath the side glass to shoot through all the way to the front horseshoe grill creating a new three-dimensional character for the famous Bugatti C-line introduced on Chiron.

To keep the body side section slim, but also allow for optimum airflow to the W16, the oil cooler intakes on the side were deliberately separated from the engine air intakes, which now sit on the roof, just behind the occupants.

The two-new roof-mounted engine air scoops also reference the Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid, as well as the first open top Bugatti of the modern era: the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport. Tighter, more powerful and appearing to leap forwards, the W16 Mistral exhibits an entirely different character.

“To reflect the W16 Mistral’s new character, we also totally reinvented its frontal appearance, in line with the vertical layout of our unique or few-off models like Divo and La Voiture Noire. It’s immediately imbued with a sense of exclusivity; the vertically stacked headlights are completely bespoke and the famous horseshoe grille is reimagined to be much more three-dimensional; both deeper and wider. At the rear, we challenged ourselves to create a striking but also more elegant iteration of Bolide’s X-theme taillight motif, which forever left its mark on the world of automotive design,” Anscheidt explained.

The headlights themselves are intricately shaped, incorporating a 4-light signature that subtly nods to the W16 Mistral’s 4-wheel-drive and 4 turbochargers. But their 3-dimensional surface also functions as an aerodynamic aid that funnels air through the light and out through the wheelarch to improve aerodynamic drag. The wider horseshoe grille allows the high temperature engine radiator to be fully fed purely from one intake, leaving the two side intakes to focus only on providing air to the intercoolers.

The X-taillight, meanwhile, serves the function of venting the side oil coolers through ducts connecting the triangular negative space in between the X beams to the side radiators. Therefore, a pressure drop is created between the side intakes and the outlets at the back, which helps to manage the mid-temperature cooling circuit of the engine most effectively.

Other engineering innovations can be seen in Bugatti’s advanced composite materials are paired with cutting-edge titanium and aluminium 3D-printing for the striking design. A detailed analysis of the W16 Mistral’s dynamic stiffness allowed engineers to develop lightweight solutions that would ensure optimum handling and performance under the most extreme conditions.

The interior follows that in the Chiron, providing an experience that’s both elegant and luxurious, but also functional enough to ensure all information is easily visible at up to 420 km/h. The dedication to material quality remains a hallmark of Bugatti design, with advanced, lightweight titanium, aluminium components milled from a solid block and soft, blemish-free leathers.

An intricate woven leather is used on newly designed door panels, meticulously tested and produced to Bugatti quality standards that envision regular use for over
a hundred years
 into the future. The gear shifter – machined from a solid block of aluminium – features a touch of wood and an amber insert with Rembrandt Bugatti’s famous ‘dancing elephant’ sculpture locked within.

When Bugatti’s last roadster, the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, set a world speed record of 408.84 km/h in 2013, its 8-litre quad-turbo W16 had 1,200 ps. The W16 Mistral has 1,600ps, making use of the same power unit that propelled the Chiron Super Sport 300+ to a world-record-breaking speed of 490.7 km/h in 2019.

“The union of a roadster format and our W16 powertrain is absolute perfection. With the roof removed, and a pair of large air intakes directly behind your head feeding around 70,000 litres of air through the engine every minute at full bore, driving the W16 Mistral connects you to the intricate workings of this revolutionary powertrain like no other Bugatti to date,” declared Rimac.

Only 99 units of the W16 Mistral will be built, each with an ex-factory pricetag of 5 million euros (about RM22.4 million). Orders are no longer accepted as the entire production run has already been taken, with first deliveries due to being in 2024.

FEATURE – The German engine that was born on a Japanese bullet-train


BIMS 2018: Girls, Girls, Girls! The Lovely Ladies Of Bangkok International Motorshow Strut Their Stuff! [+Video]

Here they are! For the first time in history, the lovely showgirls of the Bangkok International Motorshow were given a ‘catwalk’ down the main thoroughfare!

Stay tuned for more to come!


Brembo’s new SENSIFY system uses artificial intelligence for better braking performance

Braking systems in today’s cars are no longer ‘dumb’ systems that perform only as well as the driver’s actions make them perform. Thanks to the integration of electronics and sensors, the operation of brakes is managed more by a computer working at lightning speeds to optimise stopping. The driver’s role is only to apply the pressure on the pedal, signalling the need to decelerate, and even that is now enhanced by features like Brake Assist which boosts braking pressure under certain conditions.

Brembo, a leading manufacturer of braking systems which also supplies to F1 teams, has developed a new pioneering intelligent braking system which uses artificial intelligence (AI) – SENSIFY. This system integrates current Brembo product portfolio of calipers, discs and friction materials with the most advanced software, digital technology and artificial intelligence. The result is a flexible and revolutionary platform that includes software, predictive algorithms and data management to control the brake system digitally.

Braking system becomes ecosystem

With SENSIFY, the braking system is no longer simply a sum of its parts but an ecosystem, where AI  and software play an active role. Data collection is leveraged to improve the driver experience and allows the system to be constantly updated.

“By introducing SENSIFY, Brembo is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with a braking system, opening up entirely new opportunities to drivers to improve their experience on the road and customize brake response to their driving style. SENSIFY gives drivers the peace of mind they are looking for,” said Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer.

“SENSIFY fully embraces our vision – Turning Energy into Inspiration – and it’s another significant step forward in providing cutting-edge, innovative, intelligent and sustainable solutions to the automotive industry,” he added.

SENSE + SIMPLIFY

SENSIFY comes from the merging of two words: ‘SENSE’, a faculty by which a human perceives an external signal or stimulus, and ‘SIMPLIFY’ which means simplicity in installing at best the product in harmony with the vehicle.

Digital brain manages braking

The system is intuitive, responsive and smooth, providing the driver the expected performance when needed, combined with exceptional control. It has evolved naturally from Brembo’s heritage and know-how, combining the design of the best braking components with the integration of a digital brain and sensors that control each wheel independently. The result is more precise car handling, increased performance to give the driver more confidence.

Thanks to the optimized braking action on each wheel, combined with the absence of drag between pads and discs, emissions are minimized which is an environmental benefit.

SENSIFY also opens up opportunities in car design, offering great flexibility for carmakers and simplifying integration in any platform (electric and combustion engine) – from super sport to city car and, potentially, to the latest commercial vehicles. Brembo will offer it to the industry from the beginning of 2024.

Brembo becomes technical partner for Gran Turismo with performance parts to be available in GT7 (w/VIDEO)


Update on fuel prices – June 6 to June 12, 2020


F1 (Round 17) – 2019 Japanese Grand Prix Starting Grid

Race starts at 2:10 pm in Japan/1:10 pm in Malaysia


BIKES: FSR Technology TuneBoss “Win A Bike” Contest Winner Revealed!

We have a winner!!!

Getting well is easier when there is a new bike to look forward to, said 36-year-old
 Mohd Fairus Bin Abd Rahman
. He won a brand-new
Yamaha Y15ZR
 in the
 TuneBoss 2018 Lucky Draw Contest.

Hailing from Ipoh, Fairus was one of hundreds that tried their luck in the annual contest by FSR Technology, the manufacturer of TuneBoss, a high-performance programmable ECU for motorcycles.

Fairus explained that he was hospitalised on the lucky draw day and only switched on his handphone five days later, when he immediately received a call to confirm his prize.

“I bought a TuneBoss ECU in March this year from a TuneBoss dealer and it is fitted to my 2014 Yamaha FZ-150i to produce more power and I’m happy with the result,”
 said Fairus.

He further explained that he was considering to purchase a Y15ZR, to be used alongside his FZ-150i which had given him some wonderful memories.

“I rode that FZ-150i all the way to
Krabi
 and
Bangkok
 so it holds a lot of nostalgic value, thus I won’t sell that bike, but this Y15ZR will be my daily ride from now on.”
Fairus’s Y15ZR will be fitted and tuned with the TuneBoss high-performance ECU before being handed over.

The 2018 TuneBoss Lucky Draw Contest was organised specifically for TuneBoss ECU owners unlike the year before that was open to the public, which was won by
Muhammad Zulhanif Hamidon
 (below) who took home a TuneBoss equipped
Honda RS150R
.

FSR Technology is planning a 2018 year end giveaway with an even more exciting prize, so stay tuned!

For more information please visit tuneboss.co or call + 603-78315041 or drop a “Private Message” on the TuneBoss Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/TuneBoss.Malaysia/


Bringing Back Emotional Engine Roar In The EV Age

Motoring enthusiasts often talk about driving as an emotional thing and while there are various kinds of emotions – stress, fear, anger – it is often the emotion of pleasure that is publicised. ‘Driving’ pleasure is often mentioned as what can be experienced from a new car and advertisements play it up in different ways.

Going together with driving pleasure for sportscars is also the sound of the engine and exhaust – a growl or a roar or even a crackle – and it is what gets the adrenaline flowing faster. The ultimate sound comes from racing cars which, not being restricted by regulations for vehicles used on public roads, are typically louder.

With electrically-powered cars, there is no combustion engine, no exhaust pipe – and therefore no sound. Environmentalists are happy with the prospect of roads becoming quieter in future as more electric vehicles (EVs) travel on them. But for those who have always loved driving and the pleasure it gives, the absence of engine and exhaust sound is a huge loss. The silence, as the saying goes, is ‘deafening’.

The engineers that make high-performance cars understand this emotional aspect and some companies have been working hard to ensure that those familiar sounds are not lost. BMW, for example, has
IconicSounds Electric
 for its electrified models which creates emotionally rich ‘soundscapes’. This is not just a single sound but varied across the aural spectrum in sync with the car’s behaviour – assertive when in a sports mode, quiet when in eco mode.

Abarth, the Italian sportscar maker, is also making sure that its fans will not be disappointed when they drive the new
Abarth 500e
 – the brand’s first ever fully electric model. The latest member of the Scorpion’s range comes with a unique Sound Generator feature which is said to be one of a kind in the electric hot hatch segment.

The exclusive sound system has been developed by a dedicated sound design team in collaboration with Sound Design Studios. The sound design, its development and integration were carried out at the Stellantis’ Italian NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) Department. the same entity that validated the sound of the historic Abarth exhaust system, the Record Monza.

The project took about 24 months, with more than 6,000 hours spent analyzing and creating the perfect sound for each phase of the driving experience. Additionally, NVH (Noise, Vibrations & Harshness) specialists dealt with sound enhancement, concentrating on both the creative and technological part of the sound creation process. They worked on the sound and demo development and as well as on the different steps of sound looping, from software development to the creation of the sound itself.

Part of the sound tests and studies were carried out in a semi-anechoic chamber – a room specifically designed to have extremely low noise levels inside, and a high degree of acoustic insulation from the exterior – in order to make accurate and reliable noise measurements. Thanks to the reflecting floor, it is possible to recreate an acoustically reflecting surface, just like a road.

To achieve a perfect output which was as close as possible to the original one, the current sound of the Abarth petrol engine was recorded throughout all the different phases of the driving experience – acceleration, deceleration, braking, fast cornering and other manoeuvres. Specific sound calibrations were carried out. And the recordings were then carefully analyzed through dedicated technical tools and processes.

This enabled the sound engineers to extract all the distinctive Abarth frequencies, which is in essence its DNA, in order to create a new tone in a virtual matrix enriched by additional sounds. The matrix was tested offline in the studio and on the static car through various iterations and configurations to achieve the perfect blend of the output.

Specifically, thanks to software, the matrix adapts the various components of the recorded sound to achieve the best immersive result for the driver. Additional sounds were layered upon the matrix to blend the historic sound of Abarth to the feeling of the future found on the new Abarth 500e.

An important point was to balance the Sound Generator carefully to provide the driver with the most pleasant driving experience even at high speeds, respecting the homologation constraints for noise pollution and ensuring a realistic sound. The intensity of the Sound Generator System is directly proportional to the speed at which the car is driven, and the sound is to all intents and purposes processed differently through the exterior rear speaker.

Thanks to the Sound Generator, the Abarth 500e is the only zero emissions hot hatch currently capable of evoking the historic sound of the combustion engine. It provides the powerful and emotional Abarth ‘roar’ of a sporty engine within the limits allowed by regulations, while paying homage to 75 years of racing engines.

Abarth Starts Electrification Journey With New 500e


Locally-assembled BMW 740Le xDrive M Sport in showrooms from this weekend

For those who still prefer a formal limousine instead of a SAV or SUV, BMW Malaysia offers a new 740Le xDrive M Sport which arrives in Malaysian showrooms this weekend together with the
locally-assembled X7 XDrive40i Pure Excellence
. Like the X7, the 740Le xDrive M Sport is also assembled in Malaysia at the BMW facility in Kedah, and is priced
from RM591,503.05
 (without insurance) until June 30, 2021.

The locally-assembled 740Le is differentiated from the CBU version with M Sport treatment. This is largely from the M Sport Aerodynamic Package which includes 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-Spoke style 647 M Bicolour, and M Sport brakes. A new striking rocker panel also underlines the sporty appeal of the BMW flagship.

Customers can choose from 4 classic colours for the exterior finish which has the Individual High-gloss Shadow Line. These colours are Mineral White, Carbon Black Metallic, Donington Grey, and Bernina Grey with Amber effect. Depending on the colour chosen, interior themes have Black or Cognac stitching for the exclusive Nappa leather upholstery.

From EfficientDynamics to Electromobility

BMW Group Malaysia has long been a promoter of electrification, a progression from its EfficientDynamics technology which has pursued sustainable mobility since 2007. It has been a leader of electromobility in the market, putting over 20,000 vehicles with hybrid and full electric powertrains on the road, and these include the 7-Series.

394 bhp/600 Nm… but goes 36 kms/litre

For the 740Le xDrive M Sport, the 3-litre in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine is paired with an electric motor which draws energy from a lithium-ion battery pack. The combustion engine produces 286 bhp/450 Nm while the electric motor can generate up to 83 kW (equivalent to 113 hp) with peak torque at 265 Nm.

The combined system output of 394 bhp/600 Nm gives the car a capability of going from standstill to 100 km/h within a claimed 5.1 seconds. The top speed is beyond 250 km/h, but BMW has decided to limit it to that speed.

Such performance, in the past, would have meant rather high consumption. However, with the hybrid powertrain and 8-speed Steptronic transmission delivering power to all four wheels, the claimed fuel consumption is as much as 36 kms/litre.

Interior appropriate for a flagship

As would be expected of a flagship model, the 740Le xDrive M Sport has an elegant interior which is appointed with  ‘Fineline’ Fine Wood Trim in Black with High Gloss Metal Effect and the BMW Individual Alcantara Anthracite headliner. A Sky Lounge panorama glass roof is standard with roller sunblinds for the rear side windows to provide privacy.

While it is likely that the owner will spend travelling time mostly in the back, on the occasions when he does drive the car himself, he will find it has a sporty feel with the M-Sport steering wheel and a host of driver assistance systems to make driving safer and more enjoyable. Besides the comprehensive array of meters, there is also a Head-Up Display on the windscreen glass.

As with many BMW models, the 740Le’s ‘command centre’ is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully-digital 12.3-inch Instrument Display. This is complemented by the BMW Navigation System Professional on a 10.25-inch Control Display. Voice commands and BMW Gesture Control help improve driving safety as the hands need not leave the steering wheel so often.

Standard equipment includes the Rear-seat Entertainment Professional with 10-inch touchscreen monitors mounted on each headrest of the front seat. These monitors can provide personalised entertainment throughout the journey and can also mirror some of the displays from the dashboard panel.

Financing and booking

The 740Le xDrive M Sport can be purchased using one of the financial packages offered by BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia and monthly instalment plans start from RM 6,558.00 (terms and conditions apply). Booking can be done with a deposit of RM5,000  via
BMW Shop Online
 (from May 11, 2021, onwards).

Every owner of the 740Le xDrive M Sport is promised a complete premium ownership experience. This includes peace of mind with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline and the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW Privileges Card. BMW Service Online is available and there’s also a Free Scheduled Service Programme.

Locally-assembled BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence launched today, priced from RM673,323


New Michelin LTX Trail for growing SUV and pick-up market

Michelin, as a leader with a long history in the tyre industry, offers tyres for all types of vehicles… even spacecraft. With over 130 years of experience in making tyres, the company has built up its technological knowledge to develop the best tyres for each sector.

For the growing SUV sector, Michelin Malaysia has recently introduced the Michelin LTX Trail tyre, specifically designed for SUVs and also applicable for use on pick-up trucks. This new tyre has extended lifespan, with excellent wet braking performance – even when worn – for long-lasting safety. It is suitable for highway use as well as on unpaved roads and unlike many such tyres, it also generates lower noise levels for a more comfortable ride.

The extended lifespan can provide up to 41% longer mileage, thanks to the RallyForce2 Tread Compound. This makes the tyre more durable so it can give maximum service life, even with off-road use. The new tread design is also a contributory factor with the Biting Shoulder that wraps from the tread down the sidewall. This results in better protection against sidewall aggression and ensures greater off-road performance and traction.

Variable Thickness Sipes (those small slits in tyres) provide improved contact patch that enhances handling and grip. Braking performance is also better, even on wet roads. When compared to its premium competitors, the LTX Trail has been able to stop 3.1 metres shorter when new, and 4.6 metres shorter when worn. On dry roads, when new, it stops 3.8 metres shorter. The sipes are deep so even the tyre is worn, the performance remains consistent and high.

Quietness is not always a strong point of tyres for SUVs and pick-up trucks. However, factory tests show that the LTX Trail has 19.8% lower sound pressure level. This is thanks to Duo-Harmony Blocks featuring two different block shapes in the tread’s centre that spread the noise generated  across a wider spectrum.

The Michelin LTX tyres are suitable for SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner (above) and pick-up trucks like the Nissan Navara, Isuzu D-MAX and Ford Ranger (below).

“At Michelin, we are constantly innovating to enable people to move around more freely, safely; and to live a better life in motion. The new Michelin LTX Trail is a great match for the increasing popularity of SUVs, which is projected to grow 5.6% year-on-year, from 2021 to 2026. Perfect for consumers who own 4×2 and 4×4 high-rise pickups, as well as SUVs – such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Nissan Navara – these tyres also cater to those whose lifestyle demands the ability to reach on- and off-road destinations, for work or pleasure,” said Oliver Biggart, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

“We are confident that the new MICHELIN LTX Trail gives drivers in Malaysia a safe and comfortable ride on the road, across a variety of terrain – ranging from city commuting, wet road, highway driving, to light and moderate off-road,” added Mr. Biggart.

For the Malaysia market, the LTX Trail is offered in 9 sizes to fit with rim dimensions ranging between 15 and 18 inches. It is available at Michelin’s authorized tyre dealers nationwide. For more information on the Michelin tyre range and location of dealers, visit the
Michelin Malaysia website
.

Michelin’s airless UPTIS tyre now undergoing testing, market launch in 2024


Lynk & Co celebrates 5th anniversary with launch of flagship SUV model

Initially a ‘secret project’ between Geely Holding Group and Volvo Cars, Lynk & Co was revealed to the world at an event in Germany exactly 5 years ago. Not only was it a new premium brand but it also adopted a new business model appropriate to the internet era of shared experience and connectivity. Interacting directly with its users, the brand’s products are sold directly online and delivered straight to their doors. New and varied solutions for vehicle and mobility accessibility are offered – from traditional ownership and leasing, to mobility-based membership and sharing.

Nearly 600,000 vehicle users

Users are provided with an ever-expanding range of connected technologies in the vehicles, all aimed at making life easier. In just 5 years, Lynk & Co has accumulated nearly 600,000 vehicle users, with app registrations reaching an even higher number of 1.57 million. Average active monthly users on the app exceed half a million whilst average daily users have reached 120,000.

01 – the first Lynk & Co model.

From the very beginning, all advanced modular architectures from Geely Holding and its subsidiaries have been developed from scratch to support electrification. As the first brand to utilize Geely Holding’s new generation of advanced modular architectures, electrified powertrain options are made available across Lynk & Co’s line-up.

Geely Group’s advanced architectures

The advanced architectures available have been the CMA (Compact Modular Architecture), BMA (B-Segment Modular Architecture) and SPA (Scalable Product Architecture). The 09 is SPA-based and as with the other models, it was designed in Gothenburg, Sweden and carries Lynk & Co’s ‘Megacity Contrast’ design concept. This concept is inspired by the lifestyle of youthful urbanites from megacities such as London, New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo, and offers users a bold and tech-laden mobility experience.

Brand’s first large SUV model

The 09 is the first large SUV from Lynk & Co and offers 6 or 7-seat accommodation. It is one of the first models to be available as a hybrid only – either with a mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid, both powertrains using a 2-litre turbocharged engine, 8-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Full details are not available yet but the 09 can be considered technically related to the latest Volvo XC90 which also uses SPA.

Since rolling out its first vehicles in 2017, Lynk & Co has delivered nearly 600,000 units. While it uses direct selling in China (through 319 sales and experience centres), its approach in Europe has been to establish ‘Lynk & Co Clubs’ where members and users meet, hang out, and share experiences. The Clubs, which represent a new first in industry ‘Mobility Membership’ business model, are presently in Belgium, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands, with plans to expand into Spain, France and other countries in the near future.

The brand will appear in the Gulf region in the fourth quarter of 2021 and will begin Asian market expansion thereafter.

A Lynk & Co Club in Europe.

“Our end users aren’t just satisfied with a good product experience; they also demand a sense of participation and recognition. The boundary between a brand and its users is being eroded each day and we at Lynk & Co must continue to have direct communications with end users – this communication must be two-way, allowing users to have a say on our R&D, design, production, sales and service. Ultimately, understanding the user’s needs, wants and desires is key to our success both in China, and in Europe,” said Geely Auto Group CEO, An Cong Hui.

Lynk & Co 03+ Cyan Edition celebrates young brand’s racing successes in WTCR


Project Cars 2 to feature second-gen BAC Mono

Project Cars 2, the second installment of the highly acclaimed racing simulator game will feature the Briggs Automotive Company’s (BAC) Mono racer. It will be made available for console platforms that include the Xbox One and PlayStation 4.

BAC worked with the developers of Project Cars, Slightly Mad Studios, to ensure that the Mono that featured in the game, reflects the same driving and handling characteristics as the real thing. They collaborated to bring the car’s unique handling ability, rapid acceleration and brutal braking power into the virtual world.

Considered a driver’s car, the Mono is a lightweight sports car that weighs a mere 580kg. The bodys structure has been made from lightweight materials to ensure that the car doesn’t carry excessive weight.

The vehicle is powered by a 2.5-litre Ford inline four engine that is tuned by Mountune to deliver 305bhp and 310Nm of torque. This coupled with a low kerb weight, gives the Mono a power-to-weight ratio of 525bhp per tonne, which can be considered as supercar-like performance.

Regarding the Mono in PC2, BAC Co-Founder and Director of Product Development, Neill Briggs, said, “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with Project CARS 2 and are delighted with how it’s captured the essence of Mono and everything that makes it a global superstar.”

“It’s the dream of driving purists around the world to get behind the wheel of the Mono, and Project CARS 2 provides the next best thing with its realistic handling, poise and speed,” he later added.

Project Cars 2 will be made available on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 starting from 22nd September 2017 for racing simulator fans to enjoy. No word yet on when the game will be made available for those on the PC platform though, but we are hoping that the launch date won’t be that far off.


Nissan investing 33 billion yen on advanced manufacturing technologies globally (w/VIDEO)

Manufacturing technology in the Japanese auto industry has been constantly improving, enabling carmakers to deliver products that are of higher quality. Initially, the technologies were used in Japan but with the globalisation of the industry today, factories all over the planet also serve as production hubs for certain models, so they too need to have the best technologies for making their vehicles.

In view of this, Nissan will make a substantial investment in advanced technologies and equipment for its factories around the world. Following an initial investment of about 33 billion yen at the company’s Tochigi Plant in Japan, the technologies will be rolled out across factories globally.

Necessary for new generation of vehicles

These innovations will help deliver a new generation of electrified and intelligent automobiles (like the Nissan LEAF pictured above) that embody the company’s Nissan Intelligent Mobility vision, while also making production operations more flexible, efficient and sustainable. This latest investment represents a necessary rethinking of conventional car-making and tackles the structural and technical challenges of producing vehicles that will lead the industry in a new era of electrification and intelligence.

“We’re facing an unprecedented evolution in the capabilities of our vehicles,” said Hideyuki Sakamoto, Nissan’s Executive Vice-President on charge of manufacturing and supply chain management. “Our job is to make this evolution a reality by rethinking how we build cars. This will also mean shifting the efforts of our expert technicians from techniques they’ve already mastered to new, unexplored areas.”

Building the future of mobility

Nissan’s next generation of cars will be electrified, intelligent and connected. They will be ‘electronics-dense’ and use many materials which are new. This adds new complexity to design and construction, requiring major advancements in production engineering.

One such advancement is the Universal Powertrain Mounting System (shown above) developed by Nissan’s Production Engineering Research and Development Centre. Mounting powertrains in cars is a lengthy process and strenuous work for assembly line staff, who must install multiple components in sequence. Nissan’s new system uses an automated pallet to mount the entire powertrain at once.

The system measures the car’s dimensions in real time during mounting, and the pallet makes micro-adjustments accordingly. This ensures that powertrains are installed to within a small fraction of a millimetre’s accuracy. The new system is also highly adaptable. The same pallet can mount three types of powertrains (internal combustion engine, e-POWER and pure electric), and can assemble and mount 27 different powertrain module combinations.

Bringing craftsmanship to robots

Robots have the advantage of high-speed production and consistent quality, enabling faster and higher output of vehicles. However, they are not so good when there are variations and Nissan has developed certain specialist skills and processes that, until now, could only be performed by trained craftspeople. Through an intensive collaborative process, Nissan’s craftspeople and engineers have digitized parts of these delicate processes and ‘trained’ robots to perform them around the clock. This will allow the craftspeople to focus on new, unexplored areas of expertise.

Making better workplaces with robots

When robots were first used, one of the benefits was that they could do jobs that were dangerous or strenuous for humans, like welding body parts together. Robots can perform such tasks efficiently, freeing workers to perform more valuable jobs elsewhere on the line. This also improves ergonomics, making factories easier places to work.

One example is the installation of a headliner, the overhead layer of material on the inside of a car’s roof. Workers must enter each vehicle’s cabin to perform this physically demanding job. The task has become even harder as cars come with more connected features, adding to the number of devices in and around the headliners.

Nissan’s solution is to use robots to insert the headliner through the front of the vehicle and then fasten it. Sensors monitor changes in pressure and use a proprietary logic system to determine when the clips have snapped securely into place.

Lower environmental impact

Nissan is also working to reduce the environmental impact of building cars. Changes in the painting process are especially noticeable. Car bodies must usually be painted at high temperatures because the viscosity of paint is hard to control at lower temperatures. By contrast, bumpers are made of plastic, so they need to be painted at low temperatures. This requires two separate painting processes for one vehicle.

Nissan has developed a water-based paint that maintains the right viscosity at low temperatures, so that bodies and bumpers can be painted together. This will cut carbon dioxide emissions from the process by 25%. Nissan will also use a water-free painting booth that makes it possible to collect all waste paint and reuse it in other production processes.

“These new technologies and innovations are at the heart of the company’s competitiveness,” said Sakamoto. “They will be rolled out globally in the coming years, underpinning the future of Nissan Intelligent Mobility and reinforcing our status as a leader in technology.”

Nissan has developed new technology to make custom body parts faster and at lower cost