Maxx ‘N Go Introduces Maxx Hero & Maxx Saver Membership Roadside Assistance

Malaysia-based car care assistant app
 Maxx ‘N Go
 has expanded their product portfolio with two new market offerings,
Maxx Hero Roadside Assistance
and
 Maxx Saver Membership
, as well as announced a nationwide expansion initiative recently. Maxx Hero Roadside Assistance service is a new feature that provides Maxx ‘N Go app users with greater peace of mind in case of any vehicular emergency situation.

The service is now available in
Klang Valley
and
 Johor Bahru.
The brand also launched Maxx Saver, a
membership plan
 that helps customers save money on their car care. Customers may purchase packages consisting of a variety of Maxx ‘N Go services to suit their needs, and get complimentary subscription to Maxx Hero Roadside Assistance services. Malaysian artist and entertainer Auguste Kwan (above) was also in attendance to be officially announced as
Maxx ‘N Go’s new media brand ambassador
.

“It’s a great opportunity to be partnered with such a great brand as Maxx ‘N Go. They really offer a much needed convenience to car owners in Malaysia, and I’m proud to be representing them to the public”
, said Kwan about joining Maxx ‘N Go. Another highlight from the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Maxx ‘N Go and
Vision Venturers Management Berhad
, a Malaysian investment holdings company, heralding a new phase of growth for Maxx ‘N Go.

Having just passed the
130,000
 downloads milestone, Maxx ‘N Go is on track to achieve 500,000 downloads by end 2018. With a huge projected leap of user base, the brand sees the further expansion of services and coverage area vital to driving such growth. As such, they have officially announced their plans to expand their service nationwide. Current service areas include the
Klang Valley, Penang, Ipoh
and
 recently, Johor Bahru.

“Our key focus is to provide the highest level of quality assurance to every Maxx ‘N Go user, ensuring the best car maintenance experience at their convenience. We have recently launched Maxx ‘N Go in Johor, and have plans to eventually cover the whole of Peninsular and Semenanjung Malaysia. It’s a big challenge for us, but we have a great, dedicated team with a structured and organized operation as the backbone.”
 said
Maxx ‘N Go Chief Technical Officer Tengku Djan Ley
 (above) about the brand’s goals.

The Maxx N Go Future Innovations Conference held at Hilton Kuala Lumpur on 11th May 2018 was also attended by members of Maxx ‘N Go’s key management team, including founder and CEO Patrick Tam, COO Alan Tam, and CTO Tengku Djan Ley.

What is Maxx ‘N Go…

Maxx ‘N Go is an
on-demand
 car care assistant mobile app, which allows people to set their location, pick a preferred time, and receive their car care services like engine oil change at maximum convenience. Also available is Maxx Hero Roadside Assistance for help during vehicular emergency situations, offering tyre rescue, battery jump starting and more. For added value, customers can avail themselves to
Maxx Saver
 membership plans, which help them save money on their regular vehicle maintenance.

Born with a purpose to serve, Maxx ‘N Go’s mission is to continuously provide smart solutions and maximum convenience to all motorists, empowering them with more flexibility and time saved. For more information, please visit:
http://maxxngo.com/

Visit their Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/app.maxxngo


Shell Advance AX7 15W-50 Semi Synthetic & Ultra 15W-50 Fully Synthetic for kapchais & superbikes

If you’re in the market looking for the best engine oil for your beloved motorcycles, Shell Advance wants you to know that they’ve launched their new AX7 range recently; the AX7 15W-50 which acts as a major complement to its existing Ultra 15W-50. What’s so special about the latest Shell Advance additions? A lot, to be precise!

The new Shell AX7 15W-50 is their latest semi synthetic blend that has been formulated specifically to provide a whole list of advantages for the latest kapchai models which are very popular amongst today’s youths and motorcycle enthusiasts across the country. No matter what you ride, Shell has got you covered.

If you happen to ride the newer cubs or superbikes, perhaps the top-of-the-range Shell Advance Ultra 15W-50 might be of your interest. Its powerful fully synthetic formulation is also recommended for superbike owners as the Ultra 15W-50 offers:

A unique formulation using Shell PurePlus Technology formulated from natural gas, making it 99.5% pure

Increased protection at more severe engine operating conditions

Enhanced horsepower retainment

Cleaner internal engine parts with little to no deposits

Extended protection against wear & tear

In other words, the latest AX7 15W-50 is the perfect balance between superior performance as well as affordability. It also provides high levels of protection and lubrication to ensure that the engine not only runs smoothly but also assist in extending the life of the its inner parts, especially when things get a bit hot. To be precise, the benefits of the new Shell AX7 engine lubricant include:

Keeping your engine and pistons cleaner by up to 33%
1

Provides 29% better high temperature protection
1

36% improved wear protection
1

Enhanced fuel economy for greater travelling distance
2

Preserving horsepower output up to 12,000km
3

When it comes to affordability, you can’t really beat the super affordable Shell Advance AX7 15W-50 Semi Synthetic, priced at RM33.90 while the top-performing Ultra 15W-50 Fully Synthetic offers a great deal at RM68.30. Labelled with the ‘Untuk Pasaran Malaysia’ logo, this ensures that customers will get the genuine oil from Advance Branded Workshops located across Malaysia.

No matter if you’re cruising around town on an old-school cub or tearing up the track at Sepang, Shell Advance has got you covered when it comes to peak performance and quality protection.

Claims based on field trial results and/or lab based data.

Compared average results of Shell Advance Ultra to that of Shell Advance AX5. Fuel consumption can be affected by other factors including traffic conditions.

Claims based on field trial results. Power comparison using chassis dyno


TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Nasser Al-Attiyah wins Dakar Rally for the fourth time

Ever since the Dakar Rally moved to Saudi Arabia from South America in 2020, Nasser Al-Attiyah has been trying harder to win the event as it is now held in the Arab world. He came very close to doing so in 2020 and 2021 and this year, again driving for TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, he finally captured the crown. The victory would also be a fitting welcome for the new President of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem from the United Arab Emirates, a former top rally driver.

This is the Qatari driver’s second victory for the team, having previously won the event in 2019. It is the fourth Dakar win for the ‘Prince of the Desert’, as the rally community has nicknamed him, the others being in 2011, 2015 and 2019. In the two earlier events, he was driving a Volkswagen and a MINI. Besides being a skilled rally driver, Al-Attiyah, 51, has also represented his country in clay pigeon shooting in the Olympics.

The result makes Al-Attiyah the second-most successful driver in the history of the event’s cars category, tied with Finland’s Ari Vatanen and only behind Stephane Peterhansel’s tally of 8 wins.

The vehicle they drove was the new GR DKR Hilux T1+ which conforms to the updated regulations for the T1 category. It features larger wheels and tyres, more wheel travel, and the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that also powers the new Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport. The truck shares components with the race-proven Hilux that was first introduced in 2018, and won the race in 2019.

For Al-Attiyah and co-driver Mathieu Baumel, the final stage presented few real problems, despite challenging navigation. The pair had taken the lead in the rally during the opening stage of the event and were never in danger of relinquishing that position. They won the prologue for the 2022 edition of the rally on January 1, and powered to two more stage wins on their way to overall victory.

Their closest rival and runner-up were the pair of Sebastien Loeb and Fabian Lurquin of the ProDrive/Bahrain Raid Xtreme team which finished 27 minutes 46 seconds behind. However, the 9-time WRC champion from France lost 50 minutes in the early part of the rally with a broken driveshaft. Loeb did manage to bring the gap down to under 30 minutes by the end of the penultimate stage – before a penalty for speeding undid part of his good work.

Saudi Arabians were delighted to see their countryman also on the podium as Yazeed Al-Rajhi (below) with Michael Orr of the Overdrive Toyota team finished third. They had pushed their Toyota Hilux hard but were realistic enough to aim for second and lost out to Loeb by about 34 minutes.

A 16-time Dakar Rally participant, Orlando Terranova finished an impressive 4th to give the ProDrive/Bahrain Raid Xtreme team a finish among the Top 5 in the category.  For South Africans Giniel de Villiers and co-driver Dennis Murphy, there were many highs and lows as the fought their way to 5
th
 place, giving TOYOTA GAZOO Racing two placings in the Top 5 finishers.

All three electrically-powered Audi RS Q e-tron rallycars completed the event.

For the Audi Sport team, no stranger to off-road events, the Dakar Rally saw the most complex racing car in the brand’s history taking part. All three electrically-powered RS Q e-tron rallycars completed the event to usher in a new era in off-road rallying. The best-placed crew was Mattias Ekstrom/Emil Bergkvist who finished ninth, with team mates Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz and Stephane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger finishing 12
th
 and 57
th
, respectively.In the big trucks category, the Russian truckers have always been favourites. They have collected 18 victories with 6 different drivers since the 21st century began. Each of the 4 men at the wheels of the blue trucks has claimed at least one stage, leaving nothing for the competition. Reigning champion Dmitry Sotnikov defended his title and led the Kamaz team to a 1-2-3-4 finish.

For the Audi Sport team, no stranger to off-road events, the Dakar Rally saw the most complex racing car in the brand’s history taking part. All three electrically-powered RS Q e-tron rallycars completed the event to usher in a new era in off-road rallying. The best-placed crew was Mattias Ekstrom/Emil Bergkvist who finished ninth, with team mates Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz and Stephane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger finishing 12
th
 and 57
th
, respectively.

Unlike the World Rally Championship events, the Dakar Rally requires navigation and a number of competitors had difficulties in some stages, losing a lot of time. Mechanical problems were, of course, to be expected in the world’s toughest cross-country race that had around 4,261 kms of competitive stages this year.

Dakar 2022 was the 44th edition of the iconic event, which first took place in January 1978. Until 2007, the event ran from Paris to Dakar on the western side of Africa. But with terrorists causing security issues, the 2008 event had to be cancelled and from 2009, it was run on the western side of South America, while retaining the original name.

The participants, mostly based across the Atlantic, were unhappy with the long distance from Europe and resulting high costs of logistics. This led to the event being moved to Saudi Arabia in 2020.

The 2022 event also had a suspected terrorist attack when, 2 days before the start, a support vehicle belonging to one of the teams had a blast through its floor near a hotel in Jeddah. One of the participants in the event, Frenchman Philippe Boutron, was seriously injured as he was in the vehicle. French security services said they would investigate the incident and at one point, it appeared that the event might be cancelled but the organisers did not stop it.


PSA: Weekly Fuel Prices 26th Jan To 1st Feb 2019 – Status Quo For Petrol, Diesel Up!

It’s that time of the week again folks, the weekly petrol price announcement. Well the good news is that after a hike last week, it’s status quo for Petrol, however, Diesel will be up by 1 sen.

As such, here’s the price of fuel for the following week,
26th Jan to 1st Feb 2019
.

RON 95 – RM1.98 per litre (no change)

RON 97 – RM2.28 per litre (no change)

Diesel – RM2.18 per litre (+ 1 sen)

Prices will be in effect from 12.01am 26th Jan to midnight on 1st Feb.


BMW M340i xDrive & 330Li M Sport Join Updated 3-Series Range

The updated
2023 BMW 320i M Sport, 330i M Sport and 330e M Sport
 launched in January are joined by another two variants of the G20 generation – the M340i xDrive and 330Li M Sport. As with the variants introduced earlier, these two additional ones also have similar refreshed exteriors and a redesigned interior, including the BMW Curved Display.

“The BMW 3-Series has been a consistent and excellent representation of BMW’s values and promise of Sheer Driving Pleasure. A global bestseller, the BMW 3-Series’ inherent qualities of sportiness, comfort, efficiency and innovation resonate strongly with Malaysians as well, propelling it forward as the best-selling premium executive sedan here year after year,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

“Holding strongly to our belief that the ‘Power of Choice’ should be firmly in the hands of our customers, we are pleased to introduce two new additions to the New BMW 3-Series line-up in Malaysia,” he said.

More expressive appearance

The latest M340i xDrive has received a more expressive frontal appearance with a distinctive hexagonal kidney grille inspired by motor racing. It is flanked by Adaptive LED headlights with the added convenience of High-Beam Assistant to maximise illumination at all times.

Included with this variant are M exterior mirrors, 19-inch M wheels in Double-Spoke Style 791 M Bicolour, within which are M Sport Brakes in Blue High-Gloss. The rear end identifies the M340i xDrive with the M Rear Spoiler and free-form design exhaust tips.

As standard, the M340i xDrive comes with the M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadowline.

The new 330Li M Sport, which is more luxury oriented, has similar cosmetic updates with slimmed-down LED headlights, also incorporating the High-Beam Assistant. If this variant looks longer than the 330i M Sport, it’s not an illusion as its body is 110 mm longer (that’s why it has the ‘L’ in its designation). Each corner has 18-inch M wheels in Double-Spoke Style in 848 M Bicolour.

Like the M340i xDrive, the M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadowline with extended contents are also standard for the 330Li M Sport.

Customers can also select the M Sport Pro version for M340i xDrive, with enhancements such as 19-inch M wheels in Double-Spoke Style 792 M Bicolour Jet Black, M lights Shadowline, M Sport brake calipers in High-Gloss Red, M High-gloss Shadow Line with extended contents, including kidney grille frame and slats in High-Gloss Black. and M Rear Spoiler in Black Sapphire.

Modernised interior

Inside, the highlight of the latest range is the BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch Information Display and 14.9-inch touchscreen Control Display. Integrated into a slender, unframed form, the dominant panel on the dashboard is angled slightly towards the driver, enhancing viewing and also underlining the fact that a BMW is a driver’s car.

The centre console has a tidy layout with the classic gear selector now featuring a highly sophisticated, minimalist toggle design. The i-Drive controller has a larger diameter for easier grip and rotation without looking down, with touch-only direct access controls. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional runs on BMW Operating System 8.

A Storage Compartment Package, automatic air conditioning, ambient light, interior rear-view mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function and electric glass roof have been included as standard. In-car entertainment is provided by the Harman Kardon Surround Sound system.

Also present are the hand-stitched M Leather Steering Wheel in supple walknappa leather, M Headliner Anthracite and Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M Interior Trim and as an option with the M Sport package Pro are iconic M colour-lined M seatbelts.

Accentuating the luxury-focus of the 330Li M Sport, there are Interior Trim Finishers Combination Back High-Gloss/Aluminium, Galvanic embellishers for controls, Instrument Panel in Sensatec and a panorama glass roof as standard.

Different powertrains

The M340i M xDrive is a full-fledged BMW M product with its straight-six petrol engine delivering a maximum of 387 bhp/500 Nm to power all four wheels. For the 330Li M Sport, there’s a 4-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 258 bhp/400 Nm going to only the rear wheels. Both models use an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.

As would be expected, the 330Li M Sport’s suspension is tuned towards comfort while M340i xDrive has chassis elements for more dynamic handling characteristics. These include the M Sport Differential, Adaptive M Suspension and Variable Sport Steering.

The 330Li M Sport is priced from RM325,800.00, while the M340i xDrive is priced from RM391,800, with the M Sport Pro version costing another RM5,000. All prices exclude insurance but have BMW Service and Repair Inclusive. The M Sport Pro version will be available exclusively online with a pre-booking fee of RM3,000. Deliveries can be expected to commence in August 2023.

BMW Group Malaysia Introduces Updated BMW 3-Series Variants And MINI Electric, Plus An Electric Scooter

Click here
 for more BMW videos at The Piston Show.


Exclusive ORA GOOD CAT Offer And Three New Intelligent NEV Models By GWM

The sleek flagship Ora Good Cat from Great Wall Motor (GWM) was featured in new light at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023, currently taking place at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang.

The Coral Blue Ora Good Cat was parked in a camping setting and displayed a dynamic body kit and a rooftop cargo box, demonstrating the adaptability of the fully-electric car for both city driving and outdoor experiences.

Customers who purchase a Ora Good Cat before May 7, 2023, will receive a free installation of an electric power tailboard worth up to RM2,000 and charging credits worth RM1,000 (via appointed Charge Point Operators only). This package is only available during the four-day event. The latter will continue to be a valid offer for transactions made by May 31, 2023.

The white Ora Good Cat displayed a never-before-seen sporty appearance while donning a distinctive performance outfit that captured the attention of the people.

According to GWM, a free home charger, an extended warranty plan, and other benefits are available as part of the ongoing “Purr-fect” sales package for anyone who decide to purchase a Ora Good Cat after the event. The package includes:

Free portable and home chargers

An 8-year/180,000-kilometer warranty on the power battery

Electric motor, and motor control unit

A 5-year/150,000-kilometer warranty on the vehicle

Five times free labour (maintenance services) without further cost.

The
three highly anticipated car models
 from GWM—the GWM Cannon, GWM Haval H6, and GWM Haval Jolion—were also unveiled at the auto show. The array of Intelligent NEV (New Energy Vehicle) models from GWM includes sophisticated technologies.

The GWM Cannon pick-up truck is well known throughout the world for its great performance, rugged exterior with a refined interior, and tough yet elegant appearance. GWM Cannon has been the sales leader for 25 years running and is responsible for 70% of all Chinese exports. This pickup truck is a force to be reckoned with on the road because to its 2.0-litre turbo engine and 8-speed automated gearbox. It is a very capable pickup truck with a Level two autonomous driving system that is capable of handling anything.

With 4 million units sold worldwide, the third-generation Haval H6 Hybrid model is the most well-liked SUV in China and the best-selling vehicle for 100 consecutive months. The Haval H6 is the ideal vehicle for families because it is designed and developed with safety, technology, economy, and a stylish exterior. With a 1.5 Turbo Hybrid engine that generates 530 Nm of torque and a total system output of 243 PS, this vehicle is outfitted with LEMON, GWM’s extremely intelligent modular technology platform. This car has a stunning and refined appearance thanks to the front grill, the brake lights in the middle, and the slim body style.

An eco-friendly SUV that provides a superior driving experience and fuel efficiency is the GWM Haval Jolion HEV Hybrid. With a combined output of 139kW and 375Nm of torque from its turbocharged 1.5-litre hybrid engine and Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) technology, this car offers excellent efficiency and strong performance. A 12.3-inch Smart Touch Screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is inside the cockpit, and a 7-inch virtual instrument displays precise and understandable driving data. This sleek and useful SUV is a great option for long-distance and city travel because it is built to keep you secure and comfortable.

A testament to the company’s core competitiveness in the era of intelligent NEVs, GWM’s goals for a “New Energy Era” are led by its Forest Ecosystem, a multi-interactive ecosystem that merges new energy, intelligence, and other associated technological businesses. GWM Malaysia is concentrated on offering cutting-edge goods and services that address the needs of local customers following the implementation of GWM’s new ASEAN strategy with a target to introduce a total of 9 models over the next three years. Later this year, some GWM models are anticipated to arrive on the local market.


Rahul Raj Mayer Returns To Racing After 8-Year Break

Having retired from an illustrious career in karting and single-seater racing, Rahul Raj Mayer is once again putting his helmet back on after an 8-year break. Rahul, 26, has been competing in the Super Sporting Class of the sixth season of the GR Vios Challenge one-make series this weekend and will race during the entire season.

With his long experience in motorsport, Rahul is in the Super Sporting Class for elite and professional drivers. In 2007, at the age of 11, he began karting and the following year finished 3rd in the Yamaha SL Cup (Junior) series. Two years later, he was 2nd in the Asian Karting Open Championship (Formula 125 Junior Open). In 2010, he finished 2nd for the Yamaha SL Cup (Senior) and 3rd for the Rotax Max Challenge Malaysia (Junior) series.

His increasing skills saw him race in Japan in the IAME X30 Championship where he came in 8th and was 3rd and 2nd respectively in the 2012 All Stars Karting Invitational (KF2) and Rotax Invitational Race (Rotax Senior) series.

That same year, he progressed into single seater racing, starting his career in the Formula Gulf 1000 (FG1000) Championship where after two wins, 10 podiums, a Pole Position and three fastest laps he ended the year 2nd in the Championship. He also spent two years competing in the UK’s BRDC Formula 4 Series.

2023 will be his first full season of racing since 2015 when he last raced in the NEC Formula Renault Monza series. “To be honest. there’s really not too great of a difference jumping from a single-seater into a saloon car as I have also driven several GT and GT3 cars. There are just two factors I am confronted with – the first is coming out of retirement after 8 years and the second is never having raced a front wheel drive car!” said Rahul who is today the owner of two businesses after deciding to no longer chase his Formula car dream in 2015.

“Basically, I just ran out of funding because pursuing a GP3 season would have cost in the region of RM5 million a season back then. Instead, I decided to go to university, then started working and here I am today,” he said.

“I have no clue how the comeback season is going to pan out. I could be on pace or off pace. Ideally,  the plan was to enter the Sporting Class but because of my racing licence and experience, I found myself being placed in the Super Sporting Class instead,” said Rahul. who will be competing as a privateer under Mango Racing with ‘2’ as his racing number.

“Mango Racing is essentially 1 driver, 1 mechanic and my team manager. We are a small privately-funded team with a minimal budget and therefore one of the priorities will also be to preserve the car for the entire season. I’ve had one test session in the Vios Challenge car. It is a tough car to drive. It has its own unique characteristics and no matter how experienced of a driver you may be, the Vios Challenge car is one that comes with its own driving style and I’ll have to find the correct way it wants to be driven. It’s certainly going to be a steep learning curve for me once the season gets underway,” he admitted.

The close racing action of the GR Vios Challenge is what attracted him to have a go. All the cars have similar engine outputs so it is all about driver skill. The similar power levels of the cars means that there is close racing, which also delights the spectators.

“I like the fun, the fact that you’re racing on a shorter track and everyone is just more dicey. The level of aggression on the track and having everyone push all out for a 30-minute race is so reminiscent of my Formula car racing days,” he recalled.

Managing two businesses and a racing team, Rahul also said that both will continue to become a priority. “I’m a bit pushy when it comes to both business and racing therefore I’m not expecting to pull back on one or the other. Every time the helmet comes on, you are somebody else and for me, the goal will be to succeed on both fronts,” he said.

This weekend’s round at the Sepang International Circuit is the first of 3 rounds for
Season 6 of the GR Vios Challenge
, with each round having 2 races. Some 40 drivers are competing in this year’s event and many will also take part in the other races on the TOYOTA GAZOO Malaysia Racing calendar. These are GR Vios Sprint Cup and GR Vios Enduro Cup, and all the events have big prize purses to be won.

Visit the
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Malaysia website
 to find out more.


Volvo Selekt pre-owned vehicles programme goes online

Back in the 1970s, Federal Auto was the first company in Malaysia to establish its own dedicated used car business for the brand of cars it sold – Volvo. The business thrived over the years as a supplementary business, catering to those who wanted Volvos for less. Fast forward 50 years later and the business has evolved into a
certified used car programme known as Volvo Selekt
.

Higher quality of used vehicles

Launched in June last year and supported by Volvo Car Malaysia, Volvo Selekt vehicles are offered only at two authorised dealerships whereas all Volvo quality used cars are made available at other dealerships – 12 in total – across the nation. The difference is that Volvo Selekt vehicles are under 5 years old with less than 100,000 kms mileage, and have received a 125-point inspection, the relevant software upgrades, and necessary replacements with genuine parts to ensure that they are road-ready and can deliver optimal performance.

Nevertheless, using the same criteria for all pre-owned vehicles, each Volvo dealership conducts a series of checks and updates to ensure that all Volvo quality used cars are maintained up to Volvo’s standards.

Right initiative for the New Normal

Now Volvo Selekt is going digital with its Volvo Used Car Locator, a timely initiative in view of the New Normal where reduced physical interaction is advised. Instead of going to the dealership, customers can be at home and shop for Volvo vehicles at a price point that fulfils their financial needs. No need to go through all the SOPs at the dealership!

Once a used vehicle is made available on the Volvo Used Car Locator, it can be viewed on the website which will have various models on a consolidated list for both Volvo Selekt and Volvo quality used cars that are available at Volvo dealerships across Malaysia. The website also provides full details of the vehicles so that customers can identify the Volvo that best fit their lifestyles and its closest location.

Visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
 to find out more about other promotions at BHPetromart.

12-month warranty plus service package

All Volvo Selekt vehicles come a minimum of 12 months warranty, complimentary 1-year maintenance service package (VSA 1) and 12 months of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

Volvo Selekt cars accounted for 15% to the total Volvo used car sales in 2020 in Malaysia. According to Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia, the positive response Volvo Selekt received motivated the company to give customers more choices on how they can purchase a used Volvo car. “So in line with our move to be technologically savvy, we now introduce the Volvo Used Car Locator, to elevate customers’ experience in acquiring and owning a Volvo car, all from the convenience of their smartphones or laptops,” he said.

Volvo Car Malaysia introduces Volvo SELEKT for those who want pre-owned Volvos


Ford GT Heritage Edition pays homage to 1964 prototype of Le Mans winners

If you saw the 2019 movie ‘
Ford vs Ferrari’
, you will know that in the 1960s, Ford entered the Le Mans 24-Hour races and won, the only American racing car to win the classic endurance event. Now, as a tribute to the Ford GT prototype that was used to develop the racing cars, Ford is introducing a Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition.

6th Heritage Edition model

The limited-edition mid-engine supercar comes as the model enters its the final year of production. It is the sixth in the ultra limited production series related to the Le Mans cars. Many of the cars have the Gulf paint scheme that was distinctive in that era of motorsport.

Another version in the Ford GT Heritage Edition, this one inspired by the 1966 GT40 MK II in the background.

This latest Heritage Edition is based on the 1964 Ford GT prototype that debuted at the New York International Auto Show in April 1964. It has Wimbledon White paint with Antimatter Blue graphics, including an over-the-roof triple racing stripe. Exposed carbonfibre components are prominent, including 20-inch Antimatter Blue-painted carbonfibre wheels, a touch unique to Ford GT, as well as an exposed carbonfibre front splitter, side sills, mirror stalks, engine louvers and rear diffuser finished in gloss. Brembo brake calipers lacquered in silver with black graphics, plus black lug nuts further modernize the aesthetic.

The world’s first mass-produced carbonfibre wheel application that debuted as standard equipment on the 2015 Shelby GT350R Mustang is also available for the Ford GT.

Carbonfibre all over

Carbonfibre is also used around the cabin, for the door sills, lower A-pillars and console, along with matte registers, and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara-wrapped seats featuring silver stitching. The instrument panel is wrapped in Ebony leather and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara, while pillars and headliner are wrapped in Ebony Alcantara. Antimatter Blue appliques on the instrument panel, door register bezels and seat X-brace are coordinated with the unique wheels. The steering wheel is finished in Ebony Alcantara with black stitching, while dual-clutch paddle shifters are clear and polished.

The narrow-profile canopy reduces frontal area and caps a purposeful interior that provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure control, comfort and safety. The 2-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbonfibre passenger cell.

This configuration significantly reduces seating hardware and weight, and provides a consistent and direct sensory connection to the chassis. The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver heights.

An F1-style steering wheel integrates all necessary driver controls, creating a stalkless steering column that allows uncluttered access to the transmission paddle-shift controls. A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving environments and different driving modes.

700 ps EcoBoost engine

The engine behind the cockpit is a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged Ford EcoBoost V6 with a power output of up to 700 ps and around 750 Nm of torque. The Powershift transmission is a dual-clutch unit made by Getrag. Ford’s high-performance division, Ford Performance, has been directly involved in the car’s development.

The current Ford GT is actually the second time Ford has built such a model. The first one was produced between 2005 and 2006 to celebrate the company’s centenary, with 4,038 units built. The second generation was introduced at the end of 2016 and production was planned to be 250 units a year until 2022. It is built at the factory of Canadian-based Multimatic, a specialist manufacturer.

During 2005 and 2006, Ford built around 4,000 units of the first generation Ford GT which was for the company’s centenary celebration.

Visit
www.sdacford.com.my
 to know more about Ford models in Malaysia

This is the last new Ford GT you can buy


Perodua continues to help key public institutions with contribution to Shah Alam General Hospital

While our healthcare services can be considered pretty good and the rakyat are able to obtain good medical treatment at government hospitals and clinics, the cost is also high for the government. Therefore, the private sector too can play a role in helping in this area and as part of its continuing support given to key public institutions nationwide, it recently contributed medical equipment and gifts worth a total of  RM87,967 to the Shah Alam General Hospital in Selangor.

The ongoing initiative is aimed at supporting the efforts by Malaysia’s healthcare frontliners to increase the health service quality nationwide. Perodua donated a free-standing warmer, 3 photolights, a high-tech jellypad, 7 stethoscope neonates, a LSCS set used during caesarean, and 10 surgical scissors to the hospital’s paediatric ward.

“We aspire to be a responsible corporate citizen and we will assist where we can in ensuring consistent and continuous access to medical supplies for hospitals and our entire health care system,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, at the presentation ceremony.

Helping add value to healthcare system

Adding that Perodua recognises the importance of private-public partnership in enhancing the quality of health service in the country, Dato’ Zainal said the company will  continue to communicate with key public institutions and the Ministry of Health to see where it can add value in the country’s healthcare system.

Besides key public institutions, Perodua has also provided thousands of face-shields to schools and traders at markets to help them have better protection during the pandemic.

To date, Perodua has contributed medical supplies to public hospitals including Sungai Buloh Hospital, Selayang Hospital, and Sabah Women and Children Hospital in Likas. Additionally, the company has supplied thousands of face-shields (made by one of its subsidiary companies) to schools, traders at markets and government agencies.

Lower-priced childseat now offered by Perodua


First Look At New Hyundai KONA Generation, To Be Launched In 2023

Hyundai Motor has released the first pictures of the new generation of its KONA sub-compact SUV, and like the original IONIQ, there will be a choice of battery electric (BEV), hybrid electric (HEV) or just an internal combustion engine (ICE). A fourth choice will be the sporty N line.

While sharing the same architecture, each version will have unique styling to differentiate it. The overall size has increased a bit with 150 mm addition to the length, 25 mm more width and a wheelbase that is 60 mm longer.

In a reversal of past practices where a design started off for an ICE version, Hyundai’s designers began with the BEV version and then adapted the model for HEV and ICE powertrains. This EV-led process has brought more tech-centric design thinking which results in distinctive futuristic styling.

Aerodynamic efficiency is emphasised in the exterior design and the pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp which is pixelated on the EV variant/ This is the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp and it has Parametric Pixels as the distinctive design element.

Despite its futuristic appearance, the new KONA still has SUV features such as boldly sculpted wheel arch claddings that incorporate headlamps and taillamps. The bodywork is covered with parametric surfaces; a sharp diagonal crease of the sides connects the satin chrome molding from the belt line to the spoiler, creating a contour that wraps around the entire vehicle.

Current KONA Electric

The rear features another Seamless Horizon Lamp as well as a third brake light that is seamlessly integrated within the satin chrome molding of the spoiler.

The styling variations are very obvious. The BEV gets pixel graphic details on the intake grille and rear bumper, a pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheel design, black embracing line and optional black side mirrors and roof. The ICE and HEV versions share a bold and rugged bumper and skidplate design, and black wheel arch cladding.

The sporty N Line has optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper to emphasize a lower stance, distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels, twin muffler and silver sideskirt.

‘Living space’

The larger interior is a ‘living space’ with practical features and an evolved in-car experience to accommodate diverse lifestyles. The EV-derived universal architecture accommodates a sporty layout with floating horizontal C-Pad to emphasize the slim and wide interior. Ambient lighting enhances the user experience and convenience.

The 12.3-inch dual wide displays and floating module impart a high-tech impression. With the column type shift-by-wire relocated from the centre console to behind the steering wheel, it provides an uncluttered layout and additional space for belongings in the central tunnel.

The second-row Curve-less Bench Seat shows the KONA’s 21st century urban design aesthetic. This area offers maximum usability, comfort and convenience. Behind the second row is a cargo space optimized for maximum volume.

Hyundai to use new Integrated Modular Architecture for all future BEV models

Click here
 for more Hyundai videos at The Piston Show.


Significant Increases In Toyota and Lexus Deliveries In August

As supply improves, the car companies are able to deliver more vehicles to waiting customers and many have seen significant increases each month. These include UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT), which reported a total of 9,091 units comprising 8,961 units of Toyota vehicles and 130 units of Lexus vehicles. The total volume was 37% higher than what was achieved in July (6,637 units).

Cumulative deliveries for the first 8 months of the year reached 61,639 units (Toyota and Lexus combined), 62% higher than for the same period in 2021 when the cumulative volume was 38,085 units.

The company is looking forward to even better numbers in coming months as it will soon launch the new
Toyota Veloz MPV
. Since bookings opened in June, some 5,200 orders have been collected for the 7-seater MPV which will take over from the Avanza.

New Veloz MPV is to be launched soon.

The Veloz, which will have a price estimated to be RM95,000 (without insurance), will have an all-aluminium 1.5-litre engine with Dual VVT-i. The engine is coupled to a 7-speed CVT and unlike the rear-wheel drive Avanza, power goes to the front wheels.

As with many of the models sold by UMWT, the Veloz will come with Toyota Safety Sense technology. This is a suite of active safety systems that will help the driver be alerted of potential accidents and even act if he or she doesn’t respond in the correct way (eg with Automatic Emergency Braking).

“The introduction of the new Toyota Veloz will be a significant moment for us, and we are confident it will be popular among Malaysians with its value for money premium offerings, advanced features and of course, the renowned Toyota quality and reliability,” said UMW Toyota Motor’s President, Ravindran K.

“We are grateful for the strong support and we are working around the clock to intensify production to ensure delivery to new car owners,” he added. The Veloz is assembled at the Perodua plant under contract.

Later this month, UMWT will also introduce improved versions of its Fortuner and Hilux models, followed by the Innova in October. Orders are now accepted at all authorised Toyota showrooms nationwide.

The three models were conceived as part of the Toyota Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project in the mid-2000s for production globally. The current generation, which has been in the market since 2016, has been popular with the Hilux in particular being the leader in the pick-up truck segment year after year.

Improved versions of the Innova (top) and Fortuner (centre) and Hilux (above) will be introduced in the near future.

“With the three improved vehicles, we are confident that we will be able to capture a strong demand from customers in both Peninsular and East Malaysia, at the same time increase our market share for this year,” said Mr. Ravindran.

In conjunction with the 2022 Merdeka and Malaysia Day celebrations, UMWT is offering value-added packages to all its customers with great deals worth up to RM4,000 on selected variants for the Vios and Yaris.

More information on promotions can be found at
www.toyota.com.my
 or at any authorised Toyota showroom.

All-new Toyota Veloz to replace Avanza, bookings now open


Ford Ranger sales figures up by 12% in Q3

Looks like Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) aka Ford Malaysia has seen a positive growth in their Ford Ranger sales figures as they celebrate an increase of 12% in Q3 compared to the previous quarter between April and June 2019.

This boost in sales numbers also means that their current share in the country’s pickup truck segment has also gone up by 1.5%. They now sit at a cool 16.2% across the board against other pickup truck offerings here in Malaysia.

According to Syed Ahmad Muzri Bin Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion, “The Ford Ranger continues to set the benchmark for the segment with its unmatched versatility, advanced technology, safety features, comfort and bold exterior. We are proud to continue working with Ford to further enhance our exceptional Ranger customer and ownership experience.”

It also comes as no surprise as the new Ford Ranger range has picked up several key awards over the past few months which includes:

‘Best Pickup Truck’ at the 2019 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards

‘2019 Malaysia Pick-Up Truck of the Year’ at the Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific Best Practices Awards

‘Best Pickup Trucks of Malaysia’ 2019 at the Cars of Malaysia Awards

‘Pickup Truck of the Year’ at the 2019 DSF.my Allianz Vehicle of the Year Awards (VOTY)

For more information, head over to
www.sdacford.com.my
 or visit the nearest Ford authorised showrooms located across the country.

Customized Ford Rangers showcased at 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas


Finance Ministry says banks agree not to charge any extra interest on H-P loans

Following the uproar when it was announced by Bank Negara Malaysia and the Association of Banks Malaysia that the 6-month moratorium offered on loans, including Hire-Purchase loans, would incur interest for the 6 months, the Finance Ministry has today said that there will be no interest charged.

The announcement on the Finance Ministry’s website

Prior to this, the financial institutions had said that borrowers will have the option of settling the 5 months deferred instalments in October in one lump sum and not pay any interest, or interest for each month would be added for those who did not settle in full. This meant that the amount for the remaining instalments would be increased and the repayment term would extend a further 6 months (incorporating the deferred months). This applied to both conventional and Shariah H-P loans.

The charging on additional interest was seen as being unfair, more so at a time when many people are facing financial challenges in view of the impact of the pandemic on businesses. Allowing a 6-month deferment in paying instalments was a welcome move as it would allow them some time to recover and try to stabilize their situation, but to charge them additional interest was only adding extra financial burden.

After a discussion between the Finance Ministry and the banks, it was agreed that no interest will be charged or compounded, and therefore the amount owing would not change. In other words, whatever instalment amount has been paid will be maintained and the only difference will be that the repayment term will continue for 6 months after the original month it was supposed to end.

The amount you agreed for your H-P loan plus the interest at the time of purchase will be all you have to repay, with no additional interest being charged.

Borrowers have the option of accepting the 6-month deferment or they can opt out. In either case, they need to inform their banks of their decision.


55 units of Perodua Aruz purchased by KPDNHEP, the first government agency to choose the SUV

Government support for Malaysian carmakers has not been confined to providing various forms of funding and incentives as the government, being the country’s largest fleet owner, has also purchased thousands of vehicles from Perodua and Proton over the years.

First government agency to use Aruz

The most recent example was the purchase of 55 units of the Perodua Aruz by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP). This is the first fleet deal for the 7-seater SUV and KPDNHEP is also the first government agency to purchase the Aruz.

“We thank KPDNHEP very much for choosing the Perodua Aruz and in doing so, supporting the Malaysian automotive supply eco-system, as over 90% of the Aruz’s components are locally sourced. The same is true of all our current models,” Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd MD, Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin (left) witnessing a symbolic key hand-over by Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Secretary-General, Datuk Muez Abd Aziz (centre) to KPDNHEP Director of Enforcement, Dato’ Iskandar Halim Sulaiman (right).

Explaining how the Aruz would be beneficial to the operations of the ministry’s enforcement officers, Dato’ Zainal said: “We understand KPDNHEP’s enforcement officers often take long road journeys in the course of duty. The Perodua Aruz is durable, dependable, spacious, practical, easy to drive and due to its many seating configurations, very versatile. Not forgetting conveniences such as the built-in toll card reader, integrated dash cam, HDMI, Smart Link, Bluetooth and navigation.”

Safe and fuel-efficient

The occupants will also be well protected with the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 2.0, 6 airbags and Vehicle Stability Control, which have contributed to the Aruz being rated the maximum of 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP.

“It is also an Energy-Efficient Vehicle (EEV) with a best-in-class rated fuel efficiency of 15.6 kms/litre, contributing to low running costs,” he said, adding that over 23,000 units have already been delivered out of over 33,000 bookings received to date since its launch in January.

To locate a showroom to view or test-drive the Aruz, visit
www.perodua.com.my
.

Perodua briefs KPDNHEP enforcement officers on imitation parts


Fuel prices for July 27 to August 2 2019


Rolls-Royce To Blacklist Spectre Resellers

The
Rolls-Royce Spectre
 is the British automaker’s first-ever electric vehicle to be produced in large numbers, and the Goodwood-based company has encountered longer-than-expected order backlogs.

The assumption is that after the car’s supply is depleted, the value of the used car market will soar. Goodwood, on the other hand, is supposedly not going to do any of that and will permanently blacklist anyone who sells their Rolls-Royce Spectre EV for profit.

“They’re going immediately on a blacklist and this is it—you will never ever have the chance to acquire again,” Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös said.

Rolls is not the only company to voice its displeasure with resellers. Back in 2017, Porsche GT CEO Andreas Preuninger stated that Porsche was keeping track of which customers were reselling cars in order to restrict such customers from receiving special car allocations.

More recently, GM declared that if the Corvette Z06 is re-sold within a year, some warranties will be revoked, punishing any consumers who do so. Additionally, consumers who sell their Z06s will not be eligible for allocations on any future GM vehicles.

This is in fact not a new practise as Ferrari has been blacklisting re-sellers for years. Allocations for some of Ferrari’s rare hypercars such as the LaFerrari are only allocated for those who have been loyal to Ferrari and have been buying Ferraris for years. In fact, some Ferraris such as the LaFerrari are based on an invitation only purchase model.

The Spectre is expected to begin deliveries next year. According to reports, the electric coupe has received so many orders that the company’s CEO is already discussing raising production levels. The base model of the first-ever electric Rolls-Royce has a starting price of around $400,000 (RM1.8 million). However, analysts predict that few customers will choose the base model, therefore the majority of Spectres leaving the factory will likely cost more than $500,000 (RM2.3 million).

Thanks to a 700 kg high-voltage battery pack, the British luxury two-door boasts a WLTP driving range of 520km per charge. The 2857kg coupe is propelled by two independently stimulated synchronous motors that provide a combined 584hp and can accelerate the car from 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds.


Potent lightweight Corsa RR Turbo racer from ATS Automobili for RM504,000

Back in the 1960s, a group of Ferrari directors and engineers left the company to start a new one known as Automobili Turismo e Sport (ATS) with the aim of being a rival in F1 as well as on the street. The attempt didn’t go well and the company had to close down in 1964 after producing just 12 cars. However, over 50 years later, ATS has been revived and true to its heritage and to its roots, its Corsa division has made a comeback on racing tracks with a new and in-house developed car: the RR Turbo.

ATS Corsa has followed the principles of knowledge, power and strength to create its own brand new car. Essential and for track use, the RR Turbo is dedicated to all those drivers and teams that are looking for top performance figures in a car with an accessible price but equipped with premium parts.

Customers will benefit from ATS-Sicom carbo-ceramic discs with lightweight monoblock calipers, double wishbone pushrod suspensions with electronic Tractive shocks absorbers adjustable from inside the cockpit via a touchscreen display, Michelin tyres, AIM dash logger, electro hydraulic transmission with paddle shifters and a tablet console linked to the in-car cameras able to record and live-stream track sessions.

A typical Italian GT

Developed entirely by the ATS Automobili’s Design & Engineering department, the RR Turbo immediately sets itself aside, thanks to the beauty of its fluid and original lines, typical of the best Italian GT and for the attention to detail, responding to the values of Italian tradition and therefore of ATS Automobili.

The RR Turbo is a track weapon with credible numbers: 600 bhp; 780 kgs;  1.3 kgs/bhp power-to-weight-ratio. The RR Turbo has been engineered around a chromium molybdenum spaceframe chassis weighing only 40 kgs (without roll-bar) and the first of its kind to blend the most race-proven technology with the revolutionary concept of the monocoque.

The chassis tubing is welded to form a central tub-core which is paired with the FIA homologated roll-cage, giving high torsional rigidity and reaching the maximum levels of safety. Such a construction also allows to have a spacious and comfortable cockpit, providing more than enough room for taller individuals.

The RR Turbo hides under its bodywork an unexpected layout for a GT. As a matter of fact, just like in sports prototype and Formula cars, the engine and the gearbox are linked together by a monoblock bellhousing which acts as a support for the suspensions, dampers, wing mount and exhaust.

2-litre turbo engine from Honda

The heart of the RR Turbo is a Honda-supplied turbocharged 2-litre 4-cylinder engine. Developed by ATS Corsa with a closed-deck construction, it is equipped with forged pistons, head with bespoke intake and exhaust manifolds and Garret turbocharger. Managed by an Hondata ECU, the RR Turbo’s output reaches 600 bhp at 8,500 rpm and torque peaks at 530 Nm between 4,000 to 7,000rpm. Power delivery to the wheels is through a 6-speed 3MO FTX sequential transmission with limited slip differential.

The standard braking system is characterized by 4-piston Brembo calipers with steel discs but for those wanting more stopping power, there are also ultralight ATS-Sicom monoblock calipers paired with 350 mm carbo-ceramic discs front and rear.
ATS Corsa’s goal is to offer a competitive machine suitable from week-end track days to professional racing. The RR Turbo has been developed to be a multi-purpose racing car able to offer top-level performance in the vast majority of FIA events in all of Europe. It is priced from 110,000 euros (about RM504,000) for the basic car and first deliveries are expected to start in early 2020.


In Melbourne, two Lexus SUVs ‘talk’ to each other to improve safety

Two units of the Lexus RX450h are now cruising around an area of Melbourne in Australia and they are ‘talking’ to each other as well as the traffic infrastructure. The two hybrid SUVs are provided by Lexus Australia which is the first automotive partner to join the groundbreaking Australian Integrated Multimodal EcoSystem (AIMES). This is a real-world testing environment for vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communications technology.

AIMES is a collaboration of 50 government, transport and technology partners led by the University of Melbourne, and this real-world trial of advanced Co-operative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) technology will deliver crucial research to provide next-generation road safety solutions.

Lexus Australia’s partnership with AIMES builds upon previous C-ITS trials in partnership with the Victorian and Queensland governments that concluded in 2020. In Victoria, Lexus Australia participated in the Advanced Connected Vehicles for Victoria project. In Queensland, the company worked with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (Queensland) Cooperative and Automated Vehicle Initiative (CAVI) in Brisbane.

Those trials enabled Lexus to develop applications such as warning drivers of red lights ahead, pedestrians about to cross the road at traffic lights, and alerting drivers to the presence of slow or stopped vehicles, road works or road hazards such as water or debris – elements that will continue to be tested in this trial.

Various sensors and antennas on the roof of the SUV for communication.

Lexus has already successfully demonstrated Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) technology for vehicle to vehicle (V2V) and vehicle to infrastructure (V2I) communications in Japan since 2015. This enabled it to prepare the two units with DSRC and cellular network technologies.

The two Lexus RX 450h SUVs can communicate with traffic lights, trams and emergency service vehicles to proactively deliver warnings and alerts of potential danger to the driver of the vehicle before they come into a driver’s line of sight. Lexus aims to use the trial to develop applications such as warning the driver when turning in front of a tram, or warning the driver when a cyclist or pedestrian has pushed the button on traffic lights to cross the road – including at challenging ‘hook-turn’ intersections.

Further applications to be developed include alerts when a driver attempts to enter a one-way street or freeway entry/exit the wrong way, when an emergency vehicle is approaching – or when it might not be safe to enter an intersection.

Trialing this technology targets a reduced risk of vehicles driving through red lights, turning into trams, or being unable to see pedestrians obstructed by traffic lights and other infrastructure before they step onto the road.

In addition to the connected vehicles, the AIMES trial area incorporates a network of smart sensors connecting public transport, pedestrians and cyclists, intersections, and streets into a fully integrated ecosystem.

Bladescan gives Lexus drivers extra advantage at night


Muscle cars steal spotlight at Mecum Auctions

Classic American muscle cars are some of the most sought after vehicles in the world, especially in places like the US, Europe and the Middle East. Many of these cars change hands for exorbitant sums of money.

This was especially true at the recent Mecum Auctions in Harrisburg, USA where 858 vehicles passed through the auction floor at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex. The event achieved a total of $20 million(RM86 million)  in overall sales.

There were a huge selection of cars that were up for auction, but the muscle cars were the ones that stole the spotlight. Seven out of the ten most expensive cars at the auction were that from the muscle car era. That’s because, these cars were from a time that is considered the golden era of American design and ingenuity.

A 1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird was auction off for a cool $415,000 (RM1,779,935), which is a lot higher than many of the other vehicles there including a 1991 Ferari Testarossa. It was a multi-award winning car that is considered a major collector’s item.

Having said that, here is the list of the top ten cars that sold for the most money at the Harrisburg 2017 Auction:

1970 Plymouth Hemi Superbird at $415,000 (RM1,779,935)

1969 Dodge Daytona at $215,000 (RM922,135)

2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake at $178,000 (RM763,442)

1971 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T at $165,000 (RM707,685)

1968 Shelby GT500KR Fastback at $162,500 (RM696,963)

1970 Plymouth Superbird at $160,000 (RM686,240)

1969 Dodge Hemi Super Bee at $140,000 (RM600,460)

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 at $140,000 (RM600.460)

1991 Ferrari Testarossa at $130,000 (RM557,570)

1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe at $127,500 (RM546,848)

Despite these insane numbers, similar cars have sold for much more at other auctions. Some muscle cars like the original Ford Shelby GT500 have been sold for nearly two or three times the price of the Hemi Superbird in the aforementioned list.


Another Lorry Driver High On Drugs Causes Havoc On Highway

Source: Twitter

Due to some drivers’ decisions to drive carelessly and even disregard road safety, lorry drivers in Malaysia, unfortunately, do have a terrible reputation.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke stated that
foreigners
 will not be permitted to drive trailer lorries despite pressure from the industry to allow them to do so in order to tackle driver shortage issues.

But does that make a difference? A recent video that was recorded via dashcams showing a trailer driver driving recklessly on Federal Highway went viral.

A thread of dash cam footage was released on Twitter by a user going by the handle @simrath98, showing a lorry driver carelessly exiting Subang and driving on the Federal Highway. The lorry driver was speeding and making extremely risky overtakes, nearly colliding with the netizen’s car.

1) From a distance the Trailer Driver was driving very recklessly. In the video, the driver was speeding and overtaking in a very dangerous manner and almost crashing into me. He missed my car by a couple of inches as seen in the video and i honked at him like "bro wtf?"
pic.twitter.com/KqWF9cuJTW
— Simrath (@simrath98)
May 25, 2023

The lorry can also be seen in the video coming to a complete stop and obstructing traffic on the Federal Highway and at the Subang toll plaza exit.

According to The Star, the lorry driver is believed to have been high on methamphetamines and was detained on Friday in Meru, Klang, as reported by Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Mohamad Fakhrudin Abdul Majid.

The police had labelled the incident as careless driving and the use of dangerous drugs. The lorry driver has been held in custody until May 30 to help with further investigations.


Using brainwaves to change the colour of your car!

Wouldn’t it be nice to have the colour of your car change as you wish, with just the touch of a button? It’s still an idea in science fiction but the BMW Group has developed a technology which can do it. The technology, known as E Ink, was demonstrated on a BMW iX Flow at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2022 in Las Vegas this year.

“Since then, we have already introduced further improvements for the technology,” said Stella Clarke, project lead of the BMW iX Flow. “Previously, the changes between colour patterns only took place in a gradual transition. Now, the control electronics have been tweaked to enable instantaneous transformations, resulting in an even more stunning visual effect.”

Neurotechnology to change colours

In a one-off collaboration with the BMW Group, a Munich-based start-up called brainboost has developed a new and improved colour-changing effect using brainwaves. With the help of brainboost, the BMW iX Flow was connected directly to the brain of the delegates at a dialogue platform using an electroencephalograph (EEG), which records the brain’s electrical activity.

“The colour patterns of the BMW iX Flow react to brain activity and reflect the level of activity,” explained brainboost CEO Philipp Heiler. “Once the brain is at rest, the changes of patterns on the iX Flow also become calmer and more rhythmical.”

A special animation was activated if delegates managed to maintain this state for several seconds. Thus, the participants were able to gradually calm and relax their brains under the guidance of the brainboost experts and with the help of neurofeedback via the iX Flow.

Technology behind the colour change

The body of the BMW iX Flow is laminated in a special film containing millions of colour capsules. When stimulated by electrical signals, negatively charged white pigments or positively charged black ones will collect at the surface, thereby changing the exterior colour.

The innovative E Ink technology opens completely new ways of changing the vehicle’s appearance in line with the driver’s aesthetic preferences, the environmental conditions or even functional requirements. By making it possible to alter the body colour and display different patterns, the BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink opens up a whole new way of personalising the driving experience.

Apart from a greater degree of personalisation, a customer will also not have to settle for just one colour – he or she can have many more for different occasions! “This gives the driver the freedom to express different facets of their personality or even their enjoyment of change outwardly, and to redefine this each time they sit into their car,” said Clarke.

Colour variability enhances efficiency

A variable exterior colour can also contribute to wellness in the interior and to the efficiency of the vehicle. This is done by taking account of the different abilities of light and dark colours when it comes to reflecting sunlight and the associated absorption of thermal energy. A white surface reflects a lot more sunlight than a black one. By implication, heating of the vehicle and passenger compartment as a result of strong sunlight and high outside temperatures can be reduced by changing the exterior to a light colour. In cooler weather, a dark outer skin will help the vehicle to absorb noticeably more warmth from the sun.

In both cases, selective colour changes can help to cut the amount of cooling and heating required from the vehicle’s air conditioning. This reduces the amount of energy the vehicle electrical system needs and with it also the vehicle’s fuel or electricity consumption.

In an all-electric car, changing the colour in line with the weather can therefore also help to increase the range. In the interior, the technology could, for example, prevent the dashboard from heating up too much.

E Ink technology itself is extremely energy efficient. Unlike displays or projectors, the electrophoretic technology needs absolutely no energy to keep the chosen colour state constant. Current only flows during the short colour changing phase.

The technology is still under development and as with many new advanced technologies, it will be expensive when it is initially offered. But over time, the cost could come down and then everyone can have a colour-changing car (the police won’t be happy!).

THE 8 X JEFF KOONS – most elaborately designed vehicle in all of BMW’s history


Edaran Tan Chong Motor opens Nissan Flagship Store on Lazada

Doing shopping online was already gaining popularity among Malaysians before the COVID-19 pandemic started. It offered convenience and an easier way to check out more choices, plus having the goods delivered right to your doorstep.

When the pandemic started and physical contact was discouraged to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, online shopping was already established and with the push by banks to get people to use electronic transactions, e-commerce boomed.

Even car companies started to use online channels as one of their marketing tools, expanding from just having websites that provided information to actually selling as well. Of course, this may not fully replace the personal experience of visiting a showroom, touching the vehicles and sitting in them and, of course, going for a test-drive.

What the online selling approach can do is to start the buying process without the customer having to travel to a showroom and take the process some way along before any physical contact may be necessary. In fact, some companies even offer test-drives if required by sending over the vehicle to the home or office.

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd. (ETCM) is among the companies that sees online shopping as the way to offer its customers a convenient and secure new Nissan vehicle purchasing experience. They can now do so at the Nissan Flagship Store on the Lazada e-commerce platform.

“We are excited to expand our Nissan models on Lazada, making it readily available to everyone who prefers the convenience of shopping at their fingertips. In this challenging time of COVID-19 pandemic, digitalisation has been fast-tracked and we are confident that this move is another way for the brand to enhance its services and at the same time offer great deals when purchasing a new Nissan on a digital application,” said Christopher Tan, ETCM Sales & Marketing Director.

The full range of Nissan models distributed by ETCM in Malaysia can be found at the Nissan Flagship store, including the latest Navara pick-up truck. ETCM may from time to time have special promotions exclusively for those who book online, saving money or getting extras with their purchase.

In conjunction with the opening of the Nissan Flagship Store, the first 55 customers who book the new Almera 1.0L Turbo, Navara, X-Trail or Serena S-Hybrid will receive a free Nescafe Coffee Machine worth RM 598. The booking fee starts from as low as RM250.

Other promotions available include an Urban accessories package (worth up to RM5,500) with the Almera Turbo and Flexi Financing from RM540 monthly. There’s also a Special Civil Servants Promotion for the model (VL variant)  with a starting price from RM71,906.

The X-Trail comes with the IMPUL or Aero Edition accessories package worth up to RM5,600, while the Serena S-Hybrid comes with free maintenance service for the first 3 years of ownership, with parts and labour costs included.

Booking online is as easy as making other online purchases. You just select the model you want to purchase and add it to your cart (which would be a pretty big one!). You can choose a method of making payment for the booking fee and submit your details. A representative of ETCM will then contact you and provide assistance through the rest of the process.

Click here
 to visit the Nissan Flagship Store or you can also visit
www.nissan.com.my
 for information on Nissan vehicles and services from ETCM in Malaysia.


Nissan Leaf Autech – world’s best-selling electric car, now with more style

The world’s best-selling electric car that is the Nissan Leaf which was previewed here in Malaysia at the end of last year is set for its official debut here in Malaysia but if you’re already in Japan, consider yourself lucky as you can already start booking for the latest and more stylish Nissan Leaf Autech.

Set to go on sale starting next month, the Nissan Leaf Autech is a customised model brought to the market by Autech Japan, Inc., which is one of Nissan’s subsidiary. So, when is the official launch date? 21 June 2019. In short, it’s a Nissan Leaf but sportier and with more exclusive styling finished with high-quality materials.

The main highlight of the Autech edition is that the electric vehicle will be offered in a variety of different colour options but we’re more interested in the Autech brand’s signature Aurora Flare Blue Pearl. This very special paint job is further highlighted with metallic specialized parts (grille, front bumper, side sill, & rear bumper), Autech 17-inch wheels and signature LED headlamps special to only Autech-brand cars.

Step inside the vehicle and you’ll quickly notice the crystal suede and soft leatherette seats with the instrument panel finished in luxury faux-rosewood grain. Dark grey was chosen as the main colour of the interior with a dash of blue pearl to enhance its look and feel meant to deliver a more stylish and youthful character into the already impressive Nissan Leaf.

The Nissan LEAF Autech is the fourth model released under the Autech brand, following the Nissan Serena, Note and X-Trail. If you want to get one of your very own, it’ll set you back from ¥3,931,200 (around RM150,616).


Honda Malaysia To Introduce WR-V, Along With Two Other New Models

Honda Malaysia will launch 3 all-new models as well as one updated model during 2023 with the aim of achieving a total sales volume of 80,000 units. With the Malaysian Automotive Association forecasting a Total Industry Volume of 650,000 units for this year, this would give Honda a 12.3% market share.

The target is similar to that of 2022 but last year, it exceeded the number by 290 units to take a share of 11.1%. The achievement kept Honda in the
No.1 position in the non-national passenger car segment
 (which excludes pick-up trucks and commercial vehicles) for the ninth consecutive year since 2014. During the year, the brand also recorded its highest ever sales in Malaysia with more than 10,500 units delivered nationwide.

Speaking to the media at an event recently, Honda Malaysia President & Chief Operating Officer Sarly Adle Sarkum said that as part of the company’s strategic business direction, it will launch a new model in an entirely new segment during the third quarter of 2023.

Indonesian market models shown.

“This will be Honda’s first small SUV [in Malaysia] and it will also be the first small SUV from a Japanese a Japanese mass market manufacturer,” he said. Honda Malaysia has a strong presence in the SUV segment which now accounts for a third of all new vehicles sold in Malaysia. The addition of another model in a new segment would broaden its reach and target a new group of customers to bring them into the Honda family.

Although Encik Sarly did not reveal the model, it is known to be the
WR-V
, already launched in Thailand earlier this month. With a length of 4060 mm and width of 1780 mm, the WR-V would be going up against the similarly sized
Perodua Ativa
, which would put Honda in direct competition with the national carmaker for the first time.

Indonesian market version of WR-V shown.

It should be interesting to see how Honda Malaysia prices the model. Years earlier, when asked if Honda would want to bring in the
Brio
 to compete against Perodua, this writer was told that it was not keen to do so as Perodua had ‘certain advantages’ which Honda could not have. But these days, the protectionist policies may be scaled back and furthermore, Perodua is also stronger and more capable of facing foreign competition.

The WR-V also fills a slot in the local Honda range with the BR-V being discontinued. The 7-seater crossover has been popular but probably not generating the sort of volumes expected. 13 years ago, Honda Malaysia also tried to sell the
Freed MPV
 and discontinued it after just a few years due to low demand. The BR-V has managed to remain on sale a bit longer, having been launched in 2017.

BR-V to be discontinued.

As for the other two new models, they will likely be the new
11
th
 generation Accord
 and
6
th
 generation CR-V
, both of which have been launched in America during 2022. So 2023, which will be Honda’s 75
th
 anniversary, looks like it’s going to be a busy year for the brand in Malaysia.

Will these be the other two all-new models launched in 2023?

“To further strengthen the core identity and brand presence in the industry, we will focus on leveraging three key pillars for our models – Advanced Technology, Premium Offerings and Sporty Appeal. The combination of these three key pillars will make the upcoming Honda models even more unique in the market and elevate their status in their respective segments,” Encik Sarly said.

He added that the company will be strengthening its hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology offerings in Malaysia. The company was the first to introduce HEV models 19 years ago and also the first to assemble a HEV model (the Jazz Hybrid) locally. The technology has advanced to what is now known as
e:HEV
 and available in a number of locally-assembled models.

Honda Malaysia began selling cars with a hybrid electric powertrain 19 years ago with the Civic Hybrid (left) and was the first company to locally assemble a hybrid model (right) in 201
2.

While the government is focussed on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and providing significant incentives, it is also giving consideration to HEV models. Encik Sarly said that the industry has been in discussion with MITI to obtain support for HEVs as well since such vehicles should also be considered part of the electrification trend which aims to help make the country carbon-neutral by 2050.

“Electrification is the global trend and future of mobility for the automotive industry. Honda believes that the hybrid technology is the right approach at this point of time, particularly in Malaysia. We want to ensure Malaysians’ needs are being fulfilled with the most practical and relevant technologies before fully adopting the fully electric BEVs,” he said.

e:HEV – How Honda’s Hybrid Technology Has Evolved In Over 20 Years

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Anticipating continued growth in the customer base, Honda Malaysia will introduce the concept of 2S (Service and Spare Parts) Pit Stops as an aftersales approach. This will ensure that owners are able to get their vehicles serviced promptly, something which some companies overlook as they push for greater sales numbers that result in more new vehicles needing aftersales services.

The
Honda CONNECT system
 for safety, security and convenience will be offered with more models besides the
City RS
,
City Hatchback RS
,
Civic RS
,
Civic e:HEV RS
 and
HR-V e:HEV RS
. In addition, the
HondaTouch
 platform will be upgraded to enhance the experience for Honda customers by making it more convenient and accessible.

To find out more about Honda products and services, and to locate an authorised Honda showroom, visit
www.honda.com.my
.

Click here
 for more Honda videos at The Piston Show.


Perodua Secures First-Ever Ride-Hailing, Ride-Sharing Service Fleet Purchase Of 1,000 units

Perodua has secured its first ever ride-hailing and ride-sharing service fleet purchase of 1,000
Perodua Bezza
and
 Axia
 units.
“We are pleased to announce that a ride-hailing and a ride-sharing service provider operating in Malaysia have purchased a combined 1,000 Axias and Bezzas,”
 said
Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director YBhg Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin.
He said that the fleet sale to these service providers was significant to Perodua as it opens up yet another market for the compact carmaker.

“This is an important endorsement by companies that rely on good quality and safe cars which are also economical to maintain,”
 he added.
 “The proliferation of ride-hailing and ride-sharing services in Malaysia has revolutionised the way we get around, and Perodua is proud to be a part of this revolution towards more efficient and sustainable transport for all. We thank them for their support,”
 Dato’ Dr Zahari said.

All in all, over
300,000 Axias
and
 100,000 Bezzas
 have been sold since their launches in 2014 and 2016 respectively. They are both government-certified Energy-Efficient Vehicles (EEV) and have led their respective vehicle segments since their inception. Perodua recently launched a new Bezza variant (below) at the 2018 Malaysia Autoshow, held 26-29 April at the Malaysian Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).

Replacing the 1.0 Standard G in the range, the
Bezza GXtra
 offers a trim specification comparable to the 1.3 Premium X with no increase in price, giving buyers even more value for money.


Volvo Car Malaysia Launches New Setia Alam Dealership

Volvo Car Malaysia
has opened its newest 3S (Showroom, Service, and Spare Parts) dealership in
Setia Alam
 by its appointed dealer,
Motion Beyond
, bringing a total of 11 3S dealerships nationwide.

Strategically located between
Shah Alam
and
 Klang
, Volvo Setia Alam is set to strengthen the brand’s presence within Greater Kuala Lumpur where these matured townships will offer great market potential for the luxury car brand.

As with all new Volvo dealerships, Volvo Setia Alam will adhere to Volvo’s global showroom and service standards called Volvo Retail Experience (VRE) standard – Volvo’s customer-centric and Scandinavian-inspired approach of selling cars. This year, Volvo Car Malaysia intends to secure more locations throughout the country, especially in areas where it is not currently represented.

Volvo Setia Alam showroom opens from
9:00 am till 7:00 pm
 from Monday to Saturday and from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on Sundays and public holidays. The service centre opens from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and closes on Sundays and public holidays.


Audi A7 Sportback now available in Malaysia – RM609,900

The latest addition to the Audi range available here in Malaysia has arrived in the form of the new Audi A7 Sportback. Representing the brand’s new design language, the A7 Sportback is a four-door coupe injected with a huge dose of luxury, sporty driving experience, and versatile space concept.

The exterior look of the new Audi A7 Sportback portrays a car that is not only athletic but also dynamic and progressive in nature. The front is fitted with a wide and low Singleframe grille inspired by the Gran Turismo and the model available here in Malaysia features the HID Matrix Headlights as standard.

Its long sweeping lines from front to back is further emphasised with a set of 20-inch wheels where the look completes at the rear, resembling a yacht. Going at 120km/h, its integrated spoiler pops up to offer more aerodynamic stability in which it blends perfectly with the rear taillights made up of 13 vertical segments.

The Audi A7 Sportback available here in Malaysia also features the very sporty S line exterior package as standard for a sportier look with the additions of modifications to the radiator grille and the front air inlets, the sills and the front and rear diffusers finished in the very sexy gloss black.

As for firepower, this beauty comes ready with a new 35hp 3.0-litre TFSI engine with 500Nm torque that features a mild hybrid system (MHEV) for ‘greater comfort and efficiency’. Featuring a belt alternator starter (BAS), the four-door coupe can coast in freewheeling mode with the engine deactivated and then restarted comfortably at speeds between 55-160km/h.

Step inside the cabin and you are welcomed with a very futuristic yet clean interior and atmosphere. Loads of horizontal lines blends seamlessly with the sleek instrument panel that provide a bigger sense of space for all occupants. The centre console is oriented toward the driver, underscoring the Gran Turismo’s sporty character.

Finished in Valcona leather as standard, the upholstery materials and inlays present a nice signature balance of Audi with other features likes its 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit with MMI navigations plus, black panel optics, and two large high-resolution displays used to control the car’s infotainment and climate control.

Other features include:

Voice control with natural speech dialogue system

Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D sound.

Dynamic-all-wheel steering and the new electronic chassis program (ECP)

Audi Drive Select system

The Audi A7 Sportback won the 2019 World Luxury Car award can be yours for only RM609,900. To know more, head over
www.audi.com.my
.


Go Auto to supply police with Toyota Corolla Altis as patrolcars

Motorists will soon see a new police patrol car on the roads which replaces the aging Proton Wira and Waja models. The new model to be used will be the Toyota Corolla Altis which has been accepted by the Home Ministry as a new Mobile Patrol Vehicle (MPV) for the PDRM.

425 units will be supplied by Go Auto Sales Sdn. Bhd., with the first 100 units being delivered in less than 2 months for use in the days leading up to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) 2020 which will be hosted in Kuala Lumpur. The remainder will be delivered 2 months later.

The PM viewing a prototype of the Toyota Corolla Altis patrolcar.

A prototype unit of the Corolla Altis was shown to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in Putrajaya. The MPVs will come with 5 years of free scheduled service and each unit will be equipped with additional special accessories such as an Integrated Light Sound System and Fleet Management System, as well as a VHF communication radio set.

“This is the second time Go Auto has been awarded with a tender. Before this, we successfully delivered 200 units of 4WD vehicles to the PDRM last year, which was earlier than the expected time-frame,” said Go Auto Group Executive Director, Dato’ SM Azli SM Nasimuddin.

“Our main focus is Special Vehicles and we are actively bidding in open government and private tenders as it is part of our business diversification. The stiff competition in the automotive industry now has led to Go Auto being more aggressive and creative to remain competitive in the business,” he said.

Go Auto, incorporated in 2013, is the business partner of China’s Great Wall Motor (GWM) and manufactures and distributes Haval SUV and GWM vehicles in Malaysia and ASEAN market. The company was the first to be awarded with a car manufacturing license for Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEVs) by the International Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI) under the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2014.

FIRST DRIVE: 2019 Toyota Corolla 1.8G


Volkswagen unveils ID.AERO concept as flagship of all-electric ID. range

After releasing sketches of a new model in its BEV (battery electric vehicle) ID. range, Volkswagen has now issued the first pictures of the concept car that will be the basis of the flagship of the range. To be known as the ID. AERO, it will be the sixth member of the ID. family, after the
ID.3
,
ID.4
,
ID.5
 and
 ID.6
 as well as the iconic
ID. Buzz
.

The future model will be positioned in the premium midsize sedan segment and offered worldwide as the brand’s first global BEV sedan. the production version for China, a very important market for  Volkswagen, is expected to go on sale in the second half of 2023. The European and global version will be made in Germany from 2023.

Electric offensive in China

With the ID. AERO, Volkswagen is stepping up its electric offensive in China as part of its ACCELERATE strategy. Following the ID.3, ID.4 and ID.6, the production version of the ID. AERO will become the fourth fully-electric model series in China when it goes on sale in the second half of 2023.

Two versions are planned for the world’s largest car market – one for each Volkswagen joint venture. Based on its regional strategy, Volkswagen is aiming to become the leading supplier of sustainable vehicles in China. As early as 2030, it is planned that at least every second vehicle sold in China will be an electric vehicle.

Elegant design characterised by aerodynamics

The concept car is almost 5 metres long and its design is greatly influenced by aerodynamic principles. The roof slopes elegantly to the rear in coupe style and contributes to achieving a very low drag coefficient of 0.23 Cd.

Stylistically, the ID. AERO transfers the design of the ID. family to a sedan in the premium midsize segment for the first time. The aerodynamically designed front end and roof ensure that air flows optimally over the vehicle. The airflow is calmed by the slightly drawn-in rear end with a separation edge.

The front end is characterised by the ID. honeycombs typical for the ID. family. The front is horizontally split into two in the bumper and is a defining style element for the ID. AERO design. As another distinctive feature that makes the ID. AERO stand out in the crowd, a narrow light strip extends horizontally across the front out to the left and right of the illuminated Volkswagen badge and above the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, wrapping into the wings and side panels.

This light strip is continued visually to the rear end with a few interruptions. The dominant rear end features a striking dark light strip and LED taillight clusters with honeycomb structure that create an exclusive look.

The sporty 22-inch two-tone wheels are designed in the style of a turbine and are integrated flush into the wheel housings. Classic door handles are replaced by illuminated touch surfaces, which reduce the drag even further.

At the top of the silhouette, the bold tornado line and downward sloping roof line shape the design. The powerful shoulder section of the ID. AERO is located above the tornado line. The contour lines make the electric sedan appear flatter and give it a dynamic look.

Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB)

Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) permits short overhangs, a long wheelbase and an exceptionally spacious vehicle interior. The ID. AERO will have a powerful lithium-ion battery with a net energy content of 77 kWh. Thanks to the interaction of the efficient drive system and the excellent aerodynamic properties, the carmaker claims that ranges of up to 620 kms will be possible.

“With the ID. AERO showcar, we are revealing a preview of the next member of the ID. family. A car with an emotional and at the same time extremely aerodynamic design, a range of over 600 kms, an extraordinary amount of space and a premium interior,” said Ralf Brandstatter, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars. “With our ACCELERATE strategy, we are intensively driving forward the electrification of our model range. Following the ID.4, this model will be our next global car for Europe, China and the USA. ”

The ID. family is Volkswagen’s range of the future with all battery-electric models using the MEB platform.

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age


Production of limited edition Pikes Peak Bentley Continental GT underway

The Pikes Peak International Hillclimb was held over the weekend and this year didn’t see any automakers participating. It’s a tough year for the auto industry and budgets are obviously reduced, and with the COVID-19 restrictions, entry for travellers from Europe is also not allowed. So the event has been largely a ‘domestic’ one like what it was for many decades before Audi and Peugeot stormed the peak in the 1980s. This year, there is also no motorcycle category as it has been deemed too dangerous for two-wheelers.

Coincidentally, over in England, the first of a limited run of 15 units of the Pikes Peak Continental GT by Mulliner has just been completed. Announced last year, the  limited edition of the Continental GT was to celebrate the record-breaking run of a standard Continental GT at Pikes Peak in 2019. A base-spec Continental GT starts at £159,100 (about RM883,000) in the UK and these cars would cost considerably more.

Fastest production car up Pikes Peak

The Grand Tourer shaved 8.4 seconds off the previous record along the 19.98-km course, making it the fastest production car ever to compete in the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb event. Driven by 3-time champion, former ‘King of the Mountain’ Rhys Millen, the W12-powered Continental GT climbed almost 5,000 ft through 156 bends in just 10 minutes, 18.4 seconds.

The limited edition features exclusive Radium by Mulliner paintwork, carbonfibre body kit, Acid Green brake disc callipers, and Pirelli P Zero Colour Edition Tyres. Gloss black detailing has also been added to the front lower bumper inserts, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear surfaces. 35% of the buyers (who are situated around the world) also specified the optional mountain decal, the same as the record-holding car.

While 22-inch Mulliner Driving Specification wheels in Gloss Black are standard, there’s an optional ‘100’ grille as a reminder that the Continental GT’s impressive hillclimb achievement took place in Bentley’s centenary year.

Sporting theme from competition car

Inside the cabin, Alcantara with contrasting Radium thread stitching adorns much of the soft trim areas, matched with Beluga hide. The steering wheel features a honeycomb stitching design and a centre stripe both in Radium, as per the Pikes Peak GT race car. Carbonfibre fascias and waistrails are complemented by a Piano Black centre console, all adding to the sporting theme.

The passenger-side fascia features a graphic showing a section of the Pikes Peak track, with 5 different graphics being used across the 15 cars being made, along with the record-setting time.

Pikes Peak embroidery to the seat headrests in Radium stitching, Radium contrast binding on the overmats, Pikes Peak treadplates and exclusive B&O speaker covers in Black Anodised and Radium finish further enhance the interior appeal. The Continental GT’s luxurious cabin includes the Bentley Rotating Display, deep pile overmats and Front Seat Comfort Specification.

Same W12 engine

Under the bonnet is essentially the same engine as the car that Millen drove. The mighty 12-cylinder petrol engine develops 626 bhp/900 Nm which can take the Continental GT from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 3.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 333 km/h.

At the 2018 Pikes Peak Hillclimb, Millen claimed the outright record for a production SUV with a Bentayga when he did the run in 10:49.9.

Bentley Continental GT breaks record at Pikes Peak


Summary of New Vehicle Sales & Production – February 2021

After a slow start to the new year, new vehicle sales jumped 30% in February as the buying mood returned, pushing the Total Industry Volume (TIV) to 42,784 units. Of this number, 4,861 units were commercial vehicles )including pick-up trucks). The segment volume was 30% higher than last year, possibly because a year ago, concerns about the pandemic were growing and businesses would have suspended purchases as a precaution.

The higher TIV was also attributed to the easing of the Movement Control Order in some states, making it possible for customers to go to showrooms if they wished. However, many companies have made a big push towards online marketing and have many processes which replace traditional practices where the customers had to personally come to the showroom.

Launch of the Iriz R3 Limited Edition (pictured) and Saga R3 Limited Edition, as well as Special Editions of the Persona and Exora generated excitement in the market in February.

The backlog of orders for some models also contributed to the increase in new vehicles registered in February. Late last year, sales were brisk and popular models were in short supply and just as when there was the GST-free period some years back, the plants could not ramp up production quickly to meet the sudden rise in demand.

The response from the production side seems to have gained momentum as February output of 45,199 vehicles was a 14% increase compared to January output. And compared to the same month in 2020, the output this year was 12% higher, with commercial vehicles registering a jump of 57%.

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www.bhpetrol.com.my
 for more information.

For the month of March, it is likely that the TIV will still be climbing, especially if the pandemic situation keeps diminishing in severity and public confidence becomes stronger. March is also the final month for some companies to make the final push to get the best business results for their financial year which ends on March 31.

The appeal of new models being launched will also bring more sales to companies like Perodua which began deliveries of its new Ativa SUV in early March. At the time of writing, we are aware of a couple of other models that will be launched this month too so there should be higher consumer interest which will continue up to the Hari Raya festive period.