2020 Subaru WRX STI coming soon?

The Subaru Impreza has been around for four generations now and according to rumours that have been spreading around online, the fifth generation 2020 Subaru WRX STI is said to make its official appearance sometime next year. With that being said, do you guys and girls think it’ll make its debut at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show this October?

The 2020 Subaru WRX STI has been in talks for quite some time now since the fourth-gen model was introduced back in 2014. The new WRX STI is said to finally make its move to the next-generation Subaru Global Platform, with a completely new chassis and engine to match.

While the current model runs a 2.0-litre EJ20 boxer-four engine, the 2020 model is said to be equipped with an upgraded FA20 boxer-four powerplant with more horsepower to boot (around 315hp expected). There are many variants around the world carrying either the 2.0-litre or 2.5-litre, but the new engine is confirmed to have more power and torque for some good, good times.

In terms of design, most of us are still pretty much in the dark but a lot of hope have been placed on the new WRX STI to look like jaw dropping Viziv concept, portrayed in the accompanying photos of this article. The ‘Dynamic x Solid’ design language carries a more aggressive yet futuristic façade without looking too bombastic where most concept cars tend to carry.

Whatever the case may be, expect quite a show from Subaru this coming 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. News of a special edition Series.White for the current generation WRX STI is also said to make an appearance at the show with some very interesting specs as the one of the final hurrahs for the fourth gen WRX STI. Stay tuned for more updates.

2019 Subaru Forester officially in Malaysia – From RM139,788


Range Rover celebrates 50th anniversary this year

Land Rover has always been a pioneer and leader in the 4×4 segment, offering vehicles tough enough for military use and for civilians to go almost anywhere on the planet (except over the oceans). In 1970, the company decided to develop a new model which today can be considered the first premium luxury SUV – the Range Rover.

The first Range Rover, a 2-door model, had all the robust qualities of the utilitarian models and was just as capable on any terrain with its 4×4 system. “The idea was to combine the comfort and on-road ability of a Rover saloon with the off-road ability of a Land Rover. Nobody was doing it at the time. It seemed worth a try and Land Rover needed a new product,” said Spen King, who is regarded as the Father of the Range Rover. He was the company’s engineering chief in 1970 and his uncles were the Wilks brothers – Spencer and Maurice – who jointly founded Land Rover in 1948.

In the years that followed, it would become a technology leader among what came to be called SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles. It introduced ABS, Electronic Traction Control and Automatic Electronic Air Suspension to the SUV world and, with the 2012 Range Rover, pioneered aluminium body architecture in large SUVs. In 2015, the Range Rover was the first vehicle to be fitted with Land Rover’s innovative All-Terrain Progress Control which optimises performance on all kinds of surfaces.

Previously a flagship model of the Land Rover range, the Range Rover evolved into a brand of its own and has a range which currently comprises the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Velar, as well as the Range Rover.

The Range Rover line-up in the model’s 50th year.

“Over five decades, the Range Rover has evolved into the most desirable luxury SUV in the world. Its peerless combination of sophisticated design, refinement and capability has struck an emotional chord with customers all over the globe,” said Prof. Gerry McGovern, Chief Creative Officer at Land Rover.

To celebrate the Range Rover’s Golden Jubilee, Land Rover created a giant piece of sub-zero art at its cold weather test facility in Arjeplog, close to the Arctic circle in Sweden. The 260-metre wide artwork filled the centre of the steering pad at the test track where all future Land Rover models are put through their paces during development.

Land Rover’s Arjeplog facility uses a frozen lake to provide the perfect conditions for engineers to test and assess the latest models. Arjeplog is also home to the Jaguar Land Rover Ice Academy, where customers experience the thrill of dynamic ice driving, under careful instruction from world-class driving experts.

Renowned snow artist Simon Beck created the 53,092 sq. metre anniversary logo by walking more than 45,000 steps across the powdery surface inside the steering pad, accompanied by a quartet of the latest Range Rover SV models.

Renowned snow artist Simon Beck walked more than 45,000 steps over the snow to create the anniversary logo.

Since 2014 the expert engineers, craftsmen and women at Special Vehicle Operations have been responsible for designing and producing the fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive Range Rover models in model’s 50-year history.

The biggest selling SV model to date and the fastest and most dynamic Range Rover ever produced is the Range Rover Sport SVR. It has a 575 ps engine which can rocket it from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and top out at 283 km/h.


Sime Darby Motors Delivers 1,000 BYD EVs In 100 Days

Although the full duty exemption for electric vehicles (EVs) began last year, the sales were slow as the incentive was announced by the government only towards the end of 2021. As a lot of production planning and ordering had already been done by many carmakers, the sudden demand from Malaysia was difficult to meet right away in 2022.

However, 2023 should see acceleration in EV sales as the car companies would now have secured larger allocations and stocks are arriving constantly. An indication of this is the announcement by Sime Darby Motors that it has sold and delivered 1,000 units of the
BYD ATTO 3
 in 100 days.

The 1,000 units, which are the first batch of the EV from China which was launched in December last year, were all delivered to their new owners at the same time. The first 100 owners had actually received their cars in January but were also invited to join the special event.

One of the first 1,000 owners of the ATTO 3.

The mass delivery took place at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium carpark in Kuala Lumpur during a special event recently. The event was organised just for the owners, some of whom had come from as far as Penang and Johor. The event had a live band and performances, with lucky customers also winning prizes in the lucky draw.

“This celebration marks a milestone in Malaysia’s electric vehicle market, setting a precedent that reflects the increasing popularity and acceptance of EVs in the country. We are pleased to sustain the momentum of our BYD ATTO 3 deliveries to customers and today’s occasion is a celebration for all the new car owners. We look forward to continue driving EV demand across our market segments,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Retail and Distribution of Sime Darby Motors Malaysia, Hong Kong and Macau.

Commenting on the event, Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn Bhd and PT BYD Motor Indonesia said: “Today’s achievement of a record-breaking feat is testament to the strong partnership with Sime Darby Motors and we are optimistic on the growth prospects of EVs in Malaysia.”

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

As the number of EVs grow, outlets providing aftersales services will also have to quickly established around the country. BYD Malaysia is mindful of this and recently opened a service centre in Sungai Pinang, Penang. The facility, which has a built-up area of 20,000 sq ft, provides vehicle maintenance, repairs as well as body and paint services.

Available in two variants, the ATTO 3 is priced from RM149,800 for the Standard Range and from RM167,800 for the Extended Range. With the latter, the range is said to be up to 480 kms on a fully charged 60.48 kWh Blade battery pack.

With its electrical system having 400V architecture, the ATTO 3 can be charged with AC as well as DC supply. DC supply will enable shorter charging times, with a completely empty battery pack reaching 80% capacity in a claimed 45 minutes. With AC charging, it will take up to 28 hours to ‘refill’ a completely empty battery pack.

Click here to read more about the ATTO 3.

BYD Seal Coming To Malaysia: Things You Need To Know About It


Honda Jazz claims title of most reliable car

Based on a reliability survey that was conducted in What Car? magazine, a UK based automotive publication, the Honda Jazz is the most reliable car in the UK. The survey asked its readers whether their cars had suffered any faults within the last 12 months.

According to the 14,208 readers who responded, not a single Honda Jazz owner who completed the survey, reported any faults with his or her car. The different types of faults of the car were classified into 14 categories.

Readers were allowed to select parts of the car based on the following categories : battery, bodywork, brakes, engine electrics, exhaust, exterior lights, fuel system, gearbox/clutch, interior trim, non-engine electrics, steering, suspension and other.

Despite this, not a single person reported anything wrong in any of the 14 categories, which is a testament to Honda’s reputation for building reliable and robust vehicles. The Jazz’s bigger brother, the Civic, did well too, scoring a 94.5% reliability rating.

“This is a fantastic result for the Jazz and only goes to further demonstrate the build quality that Honda is famed for,” said Phil Webb, head of cars at Honda UK. “To then also further score highly with the Civic hatchback and Tourer simply reaffirms Honda as one of the most trusted and reliable brands.”

Though it seem like this bit of news irrelevant to Malaysian car owners, the contrary is true. This data offer an insight into the robustness of the mechanicals that power the current Jazz.

And since cars made in different parts of the world utilize similar drivetrains and trim fixtures, it’s safe to say that Honda Jazz owners here in Malaysia should be able to enjoy the same reliability as those in the UK.


Tan Chong assembly plant gets RM108 million bill for excise duties from Customs

According to a filing with Bursa Malaysia made yesterday, Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd (TCMA) has received a bill of demand from the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RCMD) for RM180,105,596.86. The company announcement mentioned that the amount was related to excise duty for the period between November 2016 and October 2019.

The reason for this demand is not revealed and TCMA says it does not admit to any liability on the demands made by the RMCD. The company said it will seek advice on the matter.

Our friends at
WapCar
 speculate that this could have something to do with the incentives provided under the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) program, which is one possibility. If it was non-compliance with the EEV requirements for getting incentives, that would have been quite straightforward and the incentives would not have been approved in the first place.

File picture of assembly line at Tan Chong Motor Assemblies.

However, since the early days of the National Automotive Policy (NAP), officials have said that interested parties should meet for discussions with MITI so as to get ‘customised incentives’. The policy presents only a broad overview but the specifics are not stated. This has caused discomfort among some industry players who feel that the same requirements and incentives should be applied to all and not customised for some.

In Thailand, the EcoCar program had a condition that the carmaker must produce 100,000 vehicles annually by the 5
th
 to 8
th
 year of production of the model. One carmaker could not meet the target due to poor sales of its model and would have had to return the amount of tax exempted. It then re-negotiated with the government to undertake an alternative plan which was acceptable.


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

Polestar, the Swedish car brand in the Geely Group, began its existence as a racing team before its expertise was used to start developing high-performance Volvos. It must have done pretty good work that Volvo decided to acquire it in 2015 and designate it as a high-performance division. After Geely acquired Volvo, Polestar was made a company on its own specialising in electric vehicles. And as its background was in high-performance products, it is focussed on high performance.

So far, the company has come out with two production models with others on the way. It has shown a concept car called Precept which will become a production model eventually. And more recently, it surprised the automotive world with a second concept car, this time a roadster. Called the Polestar O2, this is a hardtop convertible which shows that even with in the electric age, there will still be sportscars that can offer driving pleasure.

‘Hero car’ for the brand

“Polestar O2 is the hero car for our brand,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar’s CEO. “It opens the door to our ‘secret chamber’ of future potential. This is a taste of what we can design and engineer with the talent and technology we have in-house. It looks incredible, and being able to lower the roof and not hear an engine promises a superb sensation.”

The driving experience with the O2 is designed to be lively, light and full of confidence. Predictability and playfulness are core to exciting, spirited driving. Tight body control, high rigidity and intuitive dynamics are inherent benefits of the bespoke bonded aluminium platform, which is adapted from the upcoming Polestar 5, developed in-house by the R&D team in the UK.

The high quality and rigidity of the bonded aluminium platform are geared towards heightened dynamic response. Handling dynamics are taut thanks also to small roll angles and high roll damping, and the agile, direct steering feel is linear, with great steering torque build-up.

Related to Precept concept

Clearly related to the
Precept concept car
 but with its own distinct character, the look of O2 shows how Polestar’s evolving design language can be adapted to different bodystyles with a strong family resemblance. The low and wide body with an assertive stance, compact 2+2 cabin design, minimal overhangs and a long wheelbase, embody classic sportscar proportions but with a clearly modern, electric feel.

Aerodynamics are manipulated to maximise range, thanks to disguised design features like integrated ducts that improve laminar airflow over the wheels and body sides, and the rear lights that function as air blades to reduce turbulence behind the car.

Sustainability and technology

The O2 also showcases advances in sustainability and technology. A new thermoplastic mono-material features extensively in the interior. The term ‘mono-material’ describes the use of a single base material to manufacture different components. In the O2, recycled polyester is the sole material used for all the soft components of the interior: foam, adhesive, 3D knit fibres and non-woven lamination. This simplifies recycling and is a significant step towards greater circularity, while also reducing weight and waste.

Polestar’s sustainability teams believe that materials should be recycled, not downcycled. In the O2, they have integrated a new method of controlling recycled content and improving circularity of metal components. Different grades of aluminium are used throughout the chassis to help deliver a thrilling driving experience.

These different grades are labelled, allowing them to be recycled more effectively and for their properties to be retained. High grade aluminium remains high grade, while other grades maintain their varied characteristics, allowing for greater material efficiency and a lower requirement for virgin aluminium.

Integrated autonomous drone

As a special feature, the O2 features an autonomous cinematic drone integrated behind the rear seats. Developed in collaboration with Aerofugia’s consumer electronics brand Hoco Flow, the concept drone can be deployed while the car is moving. An integrated aerofoil can be raised to prevent turbulence behind the seats where the drone launches from.

Once in the air, it can follow the car at speeds up to 90 km/h and be set to autonomously record video from above. A control panel on the dashboard allows the driver to choose between an atmospheric sequence – great for a coastline cruise – or a more action-filled sequence with a sportier expression. After filming, the drone can autonomously return to the car. Video clips can be edited and shared directly from the 15-inch centre display when the car is parked.

“We wanted to emphasise the experience you can have with a car like the Polestar O2 in new and unusual ways,” said Maximilian Missoni, Polestar’s Head of Design. “Integrating an autonomous cinematic drone was something that allowed us to push the boundaries on the innovation front. Not needing to stop and off-load the drone before filming, but rather deploying it at speed, is a key benefit to this innovative design.”

Polestar has not said it will make the O2 for sale but given the enthusiastic response to it, perhaps they may consider. In any case, there are three cars confirmed over the next 3 years and each ‘has potential to gradually realise some of the ideas presented by these concept cars’, the company said.

Art works accepted as payment for Polestar 1


All-electric 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning revealed

It’s not surprising that Ford will start selling an electrically-powered truck from early 2022, the new version of the F-150 range which is to be called the Lightning. After all, it’s been making pick-up trucks since 1917 and over more than 100 years of making such vehicles, it has built up vast experience. Now, it is using all that experience plus new EV technology to continue the journey forward.

“For both Ford and the American auto industry, F-150 Lightning represents a defining moment as we progress toward a zero-emissions, digitally connected future,” said Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company. “F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 44 years, the backbone of work across the country, and a trusted icon for generations of customers. Now we are revolutionizing it for a new generation.”

The F-150 Lightning is one of the outcomes from the company’s more than US$22 billion global electric vehicle plan to lead electrification in areas of strength. Other fully electrified models developed in recent times have been the Mustang and Transit.

Pricing for the new electric truck will start from US$39,974 (about RM165,550) before any incentives (in the USA) and can rise to US$52,974 (about RM220,000) in versions equipped with the extensive range of features, technology and accessories.

Most aerodynamic F-150

The F-150 Lightning is the most aerodynamic F-150 ever developed. While it started from the current F-150, it has improvements like newly shaped running boards, a sculpted bonnet to reduce drag, and grilles that replace air intake holes with a smoother, textured surface. Even more functional design delivers optional enhanced 360-degree Zone Lighting, which can light up a specific zone or the entire area around the vehicle.

The electric platform unlocks new capabilities as well – such as being a mobile power generation that can supply electricity to power an entire home. Besides providing electrical power when camping, it can also be valuable when in disaster-struck area where emergency power supplies are needed. The added advantage is that the F-150 Lightning will also have the capability to travel through all kinds of terrain, just like other Ford trucks.

The powertrain has dual in-board motors expected to generate the equivalent of 563 hp with up to 1,050 Nm of torque available from almost standstill. That’s more torque than any F-150 have ever offered and will give a claimed 0 – 60 mph (96 km/h) time in the mid 4-second range.

Two battery pack choices

There will be two choices of next-generation lithium-ion battery packs for the F-150 Lightning: a standard-range pack targeting 370 kms and an extended-range pack 480 kms. As with other EVs, charging time depends on the type of charging equipment used. Ford is the only automaker to offer an 80A charge station as standard equipment, allowing owners to recharge easily at home. This system takes advantage of the only dual onboard charging system on an electric truck in the industry for even faster home charging.

With this approach, the F-150 Lightning adds an average range of about 50 kms per charging hour, fully charging an extended-range pack from 15% to 100% in about 8 hours. With a 150-kW DC fast-charger, up to 87 kms of range can be available in 10 minutes and from 15% to 80% will take about 41 minutes, it is claimed.

Considering the sort of conditions that the aluminium-bodied F-150 Lightning will be used in, ‘
Built Ford Tough
’ has never been more important as the battery pack cannot be damaged. Rugged underbody protection keeps it safe, with metal skid plates shielding both the battery pack and inboard motors from. The battery pack itself is secured inside waterproof casing surrounded by crash-absorption protection and has been tested at temperatures as extreme as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Huge front storage area

Just as front-wheel drive with transverse engine orientation liberated space that could be allocated to the cabin, the electric powertrain allows for a versatile, high-tech mega power dedicated storage space that’s secure, lockable and easily accessible by a powered open and close system. This spacious area under the bonnet will have 400 litres of volume and can take 180 kgs of payload. It is water-resistant and has 4 electrical outlets, 2 USB chargers and a drainable floor that can double as a food and beverage container. With 2.4 kW of power, there’s enough capability to plug in power tools, TVs, laptops, speakers, crockpots and more.

Talking of payload, a feature called Onboard Scales uses the front boot space sensors to estimate payload and tell customers how much they’re hauling. And since payload can impact range, Onboard Scales is integrated with Intelligent Range to help ensure an accurate estimate.

Smart and connected

Like the Ranger, the F-150 Lightning is packed with intelligent features, combining advanced digital technologies with proven engineering know-how. As part of the optional Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, BlueCruise allows for true hands-free driving on more than 160,000 kms of pre-qualified divided highways in North America, – with more Hands-Free Blue Zones to come in the future.

Owners will find that, like their smartphone, the software running certain systems can be updated without going to the service centre. Ford Power-Up software updates will come over the air and improve performance, update existing features or even add all-new functions and capabilities. The majority of updates will be completed in under 2 minutes and whenever the owner chooses.

SYNC gets more advanced

Making its truck debut on F-150 Lightning is SYNC 4A – the latest version of Ford’s interface supported by a 15.5-inch touchscreen and designed to adapt to driver behaviour. SYNC 4A employs natural voice control, cloud-connected navigation and wireless access to favourite services with connectivity that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

“It really is the smartest F-150 we’ve ever made,” said Darren Palmer, General Manager, Battery Electric Vehicles, Ford Motor Company. “F-150 Lightning offers an immersive touchscreen, giving our customers all the info they want in an instant – a real-time view of where they’re going, what they’re hauling or how much real-world range they’ve got banked. And with Ford Power-Up software updates, the experience is only going to get better.”

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


Ford owners can now do real-time service booking with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion

Ever since Malaysia had a Movement Control Order (MCO) which was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, life has changed. With Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed so as to prevent spread of the coronavirus, companies have had to quickly formulate new procedures for customer interaction.

At service centres, for example, appointments have to be made in advance to ensure that the number of vehicles and customers is not excessive and affect social distancing. Customers are also required to undergo temperature checks and provide contact details when they visit the facilities, as well as use contactless payments if possible.

(File picture taken before MCO)

Besides adhering to all the SOPs, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has also been looking at ways to make things more convenient for its Ford customers. In another step towards delivering a seamless customer service experience, has digitised its vehicle service appointments by expanding its online booking tool to be capable of managing and confirming service appointments in real-time

Real-time e-Service appointment booking, via the
 SDAC-Ford website
, is currently available at 7 authorised Ford Service Centres – Ford Ara Damansara, Ford Petaling Jaya 2, Ford Juru, Ford Butterworth, Ford Kuching, Ford Kota Kinabalu and Ford Tawau.

“The expansion of the implementation for the real-time e-Service appointment booking will enable customers to immediately know the available vehicle service time slots at their chosen dealership. Delivering this added convenience is yet another demonstration of our commitment to providing a more seamless and digitised experience for our customers,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

“In the months to come, we will be looking at fully establishing this real-time e-Service appointment booking for our network of over 40 dealerships nationwide,” added Tuan Syed Muzri.

Booking a service appointment online is simple. Customers just need to visit
www.sdacford.com.my
  and click the ‘
Book a Service’ tab
. They then select their vehicle model, choose the state in which they are located in, and select their preferred service centre from a drop-down list.

The available date and time slots will then be shown, and customers can schedule a service appointment up to 1 month in advance. Once completed, a confirmation email of the appointment will be sent.

In addition to booking a service appointment online, customers can also schedule their service appointments by calling an authorised Ford Service Centre directly. Booking an appointment is good for both the vehicle owner, who can choose a suitable time and day, as well as SDAC which can manage its operations more efficiently.

Incidentally, if you service your vehicle this month at an authorised Ford service centre, you can
save up to 20% on parts and service
, plus get a free 27-point vehicle inspection.  It’s one way SDAC is helping Ford owners in this difficult times.

Click here for other news and articles about Ford and Sime Darby Auto ConneXion
.


Audi Sport readies championship-winning car to defend DTM title

It’s interesting that even with the push towards electrification of cars, Audi’s Head of Motorsport, Dieter Gass, says that for the foreseeable future, Audi will sell more cars with internal combustion engines than with electric drive. He made this remark by way of explaining why the company supports a racing series (DTM) with modern, efficient combustion engines in parallel with its involvement in the Formula E all-electric championship.

So in 2020, Audi Design has given its six factory-entered cars a fresh look, starting with the RS 5 DTM of title defender, Rene Rast. The designs of the other five RS 5 DTM cars, which will be driven by Loic Duval, Robin Frijns, Jamie Green, Nico Muller and Mike Rockenfeller are following.

Audi Sport has been relying on the RS 5 Coupe in the DTM since 2013. In accordance with the new regulations, last season’s championship winning car will contest the 2020 season with a number of detailed changes aimed at making the DTM even more exciting and cost-effective.

Fundamental technical changes are not allowed by the Class 1 regulations introduced for the series in 2019, which are designed for a level playing field and cost-efficiency. Therefore, the basis of the 2020 model year RS 5 DTM corresponds to the 2019 champion’s car. With the Class 1 regulations, which will also form the basis for the Japanese SUPER GT Championship from 2020, DTM last year technically started a new era.

The introduction of turbo technology has given DTM a stronger connection to road car development. The TFSI engine of the RS 5 DTM of model year 2020 has an engine output reduced by around 5% compared to the previous year. For the 2020 season, DTM has reduced the amount of fuel that may flow to the engine per hour from 95 kgs to 90 kgs. By means of the ‘Push-to-Pass’ function, the engine output can be increased to around 640 bhp in the short term, as in 2019.

Therefore, from the 2020 season onwards, DTM drivers will be able to use the ‘Push-to-Pass’ system – for overtaking, for example – twice as often during the race as before. During 24 race laps (previously 12), the additional power may be switched on for up to five seconds at a time.

This new qualifying rule also applies to the use of the DRS function (Drag Reduction System) which flattens the rear wing, reduces the car’s drag and increases top speed. From 2020, DRS may be used in races more often than before. With the combined use of DRS and ‘Push-to-Pass’, the RS 5 DTM reaches a top speed of almost 300 km/h, depending on the track.

New Audi Sport RS 5 DTM of Rene Rast, the title-defender.

Alongside Formula E and customer racing, the DTM forms the third pillar of Audi’s motorsport program. DTM’s spectacular Class 1 racing cars feature highly efficient 4-cylinder turbo engines with a displacement of 2 litres. This type of drive is used by Audi in many production models with various performance levels worldwide and is a pillar for increasing efficiency and reducing fleet emissions.


Extensively Upgraded Porsche Cayenne Undergoing Final Testing

The Cayenne, Porsche’s first SUV, is still in its third generation since being launched in 2017. During the past 5 years, there have been improvements in areas related to the powertrain, chassis, design, equipment and connectivity. This is usual for any carmaker as feedback from real-world usage by owners is received at the factory and measures are taken to address issues, while also improving the product in overall terms.

Occasionally, there are numerous improvements made with many new technologies and it is necessary not just to calibrate or tune many systems but also test them for durability and reliability. Prototypes are now undergoing rigorous testing – called ‘complete vehicle testing’ at Porsche – to ensure the operational stability and functionality of all components and systems as they interact – in situations that the customer experiences and far beyond.

“We’re subjecting the Cayenne to a complete and comprehensive testing program, just as if it we’d developed it from scratch,” explained test manager Ralf Bosch. Alongside increasingly accurate virtual simulations, real-life testing is still a high priority for Porsche. It represents the test of whether any new model is ready for launch.

In the course of endurance tests, a vehicle’s life is simulated under the tough conditions that are only rarely experienced in the customer’s hands. Under everyday conditions, the vehicles complete well over 200,000 kms in urban traffic, on country roads and on motorways within a few months.

To simulate extreme conditions, the prototypes also travel around the world, with the aim being to put their quality and durability to the test in different climate zones. For the new Cayenne, tests took place in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. In total, more than 4 million test kilometres were covered.

“What we demand from the new Cayenne in tough off-road tests in Spain, on punishing sand dunes in Morocco, or during highly dynamic drives on ice tracks in Finland and on the Nurburgring Nordschleife isn’t something we presume many customers will ever do,” said Dirk Lersch, who leads the prototype assembly and testing team for the Cayenne.

“But anyone who purchases a Porsche should know that it can withstand exceptionally high loads – regardless of the surface being driven on,” he promised.

The improved Cayenne will feature, among other things, a new, semi-active chassis. In addition, there will be a new and extensively digitalised display and operating concept with enhanced connectivity functions. Innovative lighting technology in the HD-Matrix LED headlights will enhance both comfort and safety.

“It’s one of the most extensive product upgrades in the history of Porsche,” says series manager Michael Schatzle. “In addition to realigning the drive portfolio, the engineers at the Porsche Development Centre in Weissach made major revisions to the Cayenne’s chassis system. The aim was to achieve an even wider range between the typical Porsche on-road performance, long-distance comfort and off-road capability.

What if Porsche had built a Cayenne convertible?

Click here
 for more videos at The Piston Show.


Morgan reveals Plus 8 GTR design, first of new special projects

Many British motor companies faded into history, but Morgan Motor Company soldiered on for 110 years, owned by successive descendants of the founder. It was the last British domestic carmaker to be acquired by foreigners, in this case an Italian venture capital group known as Investindustrial. The new owners have had a number of successful auto-related investments over the last 30 years, such as Aston Martin and Ducati.

Under Investindustrial, nothing’s changed and the company will continue to produce its own unique models. It also has a new line of special projects to commence this year, with the first being the Plus 8 GTR. It follows numerous special project models in recent years, such as the Aero GT, SP1 and Aeromax.

Only 9 units to be available

To be limited to just 9 units, the Plus 8 GTR explores design themes such as the high shoulder line, not seen on a traditional Morgan body for decades. Its 5-spoke centre-lock wheels are reminiscent of Morgan’s 1990s Plus 8 race cars, framed perfectly by subtly re-sculpted wheel arches. Further design elements include a revised rear end, front wings, and front splitter, and the fitment of a hard top. The model also benefits from learning and expertise gained by the company since the Plus 8 officially finished production in 2018.

One particular design inspiration was the Plus 8 race car that competed in the GT series throughout the late 1990s, more commonly known as ‘Big Blue’. This car served as the testbed for Morgan’s first bonded-aluminium chassis, which would go on to underpin the Aero 8 and ‘Aero-chassis’ Plus 8 models. It seemed fitting, following the recent launch of Morgan’s
latest CX-Generation bonded-aluminium platform
, to use this opportunity to pay tribute to the car that pioneered Morgan’s use of aluminium structures.

The CX-Generation platform (pictured above on the left) with the original steel chassis that was used for 84 years.

Plus 8 rolling chassis

The project has only been possible because of the recent availability of a number of Plus 8 rolling chassis, which have been re-acquired from a third party following a discontinued project. These were all built by Morgan before 2018, but were never used for their intended purposes. All are to be recommissioned and will benefit from the upgrade of selected mechanical components.

As part of their transformation from rolling chassis to finished vehicle, each GTR will be handcrafted using Morgan’s traditional coachbuilding techniques. In a break from over a century of Morgan tradition, much of this work will be completed not at its factory but at the nearby Morgan Design and Engineering Centre.

These ‘Aero-chassis’ Plus 8s use the Morgan first-generation bonded-aluminium chassis developed initially for the Morgan Aero 8. Previously, from 1968 to 2004, Plus 8 models used Morgan’s traditional steel chassis and were powered by Rover V8 engines.

BMW N62 engine

All ‘Aero-chassis’ Morgan Plus 8s were powered by the BMW N62 4.8-litre engine, and the GTR will be no exception. In its original specification, this unit produced 362 bhp but the exact power output for the GTR is yet to be finalised. A choice of a 6-speed manual or ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox will be available.

The last of Morgan’s famous 3-wheeler models will be produced this year but the company says it will bring back the model later on.

Production begins in mid-2021, and the Plus 8 GTR will be offered in certain countries, subject to local rules on importation. As part of the special projects programme, customers will be invited to commission their bespoke Plus 8 GTR alongside Morgan’s design team.

“Reviving a V8-powered Morgan at the current time may not seem like the obvious choice for a manufacturer firmly focused on new platforms and powertrains. However, when the opportunity presented itself to recommission a number of rolling chassis and create an exciting special project such as Plus 8 GTR, we embraced it fully,” said Jonathan Wells, Morgan Head of Design. “This project has allowed Morgan’s design and engineering teams to revisit some of their favourite elements of past Morgan models, as well as experiment with some features that we hope will appear on future Morgan cars.”

Morgan ends steel chassis models after 84 years


Bugatti Dimple Airscoop – a new invention for enhanced aerodynamics (w/VIDEO)

The effects of aerodynamics on the car body and influencing how air flows over it have been studied since the 1920s. As designers came to see how certain shapes and features could reduce drag and improve performance in various ways, the styling also evolved… sometimes to extremes as with the teardrop shapes.

The quest to lower wind resistance has never been greater, especially in this age of hybrids and electric cars where every bit of resistance removed means less of the motor’s power is wasted overcoming it.

And while you might think that sportcars, with their high-powered engines, don’t really need the assistance of good aerodynamics, this aspect is even more advanced. Even the
Bugatti Bolide
, a concept hyper sportscar with a 1,850 ps W16 8-litre engine has many aerodynamic innovations that contribute to its ability to reach a top speed claimed to be well over 500 km/h.

Morphable outer skin

Chief among them is the Dimple Airscoop – a new technology for which a patent application was submitted a few weeks ago by Nils Ballerstein, one of the engineers at Bugatti. Since the beginning of 2020, he has been preparing a doctoral thesis project to develop a special morphable outer skin for the company’s New Technologies department – and this has now been used for the first time in the Bugatti Bolide.

The idea for the invention began in 2019, while Ballerstein was doing his master’s degree thesis. The young engineer was undertaking research for Bugatti, looking at new 3D-printed brake calipers made of titanium which cooled water as it flowed through. In order to improve the heat transfer and dissipate heat more selectively, he used a dimple pattern inside the channels. The rounded dents in the boundary layer produce turbulence – similar a golf ball.

The result was that the fluid mixes better in the channels – and the temperature in the brake caliper drops. “I was positively surprised when I saw the results with the surface patterns. I then wondered whether the same effect couldn’t be achieved with airflow,” recalled Ballerstein.

Same advantages as golf ball design

For non-scientists, the effect of the aerodynamic design is similar that that of golf balls: the dimples on the surface minimise air drag to such an extent that the ball travels about twice as far with the same impact force compared to an identical golf ball without the dimples.

The same principle applies – the dimples create turbulence on the surface of the golf ball so that air adheres better to the surface, thereby reducing the vortex flow in the slipstream of the ball and subsequently also the drag.

Ballerstein simulated test objects with dimple patterns in order to establish a factual basis to underpin his idea. After completing his master’s thesis, he stayed on with Bugatti while also starting his doctorate at the Institute of Aircraft Design and Lightweight Structures at the Technische Universitat (Technical University) Braunschweig in Germany. He sees the Bolide project as a perfect way to advance his idea.

“Everything about the Bolide is exceptional and extreme. The dimples further improve the car’s already excellent aerodynamics, thereby increasing agility and efficiency,” explained Frank Gotzke, Head of New Technologies at Bugatti.

https://www.piston.my/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/04_bugatti_bolide_dimple-airscoop.mp4

A world first

The morphable outer skin of the intake scoop on the roof is a world first. It ensures active airflow optimisation. When the hypercar is driven at a slow speed, the surface of the scoop remains smooth; at fast speeds, a field of dimples bulges out. The 60 individual elements extend variably by up to 10 mm depending on the speed – if this benefits the driving state.

From about 80 km/h upwards, air is the dominant resistance factor, and from about 120 km/h upwards, the dimples significantly improve the car’s aerodynamics by reducing this resistance. As with the golf ball, the pattern causes a more turbulent boundary layer, which means that the air flowing around it adheres to the surface for longer and does not detach until later. As a result, the detachment and recirculation areas are reduced and the car’s cd value decreases.

In order to respond swiftly to changes in speed, the dimples extend and retract very quickly, within tenths of a second, in the same way as the active rear wing on the Veyron and the Chiron, for example.

The Bolide is an experimental study to create a track-only hyper sportscar featuring the W16 engine. No plans for production yet so it’s a superfast testbed for developing new technologies.

10% less drag

The overall result is that the dimples reduce the aerodynamic drag of the scoop by 10% and also decrease lift by 17%. Airflow to the rear wing is also optimised; at 320 km/h, the downforce on the rear wing is 1,800 kgs while on the front wing, it is 800 kgs.

Another benefit is that the lower aerodynamic drag also reduces the car’s fuel or energy consumption. “This is why the new technology is so crucial – not just for Bugatti. Optimised airflow can save energy on all vehicles,” explained  Ballerstein. “We’re still in the development phase, but tests so far show that dimples improve aerodynamics, thereby reducing drag and increasing efficiency.”

Bugatti Bolide – a no-compromise hyper sportscar


Beyond the DBX – the new Aston Martin DBX707

When Aston Martin introduced the DBX
 in November 2019, it was presented as a superlative product… the brand’s first SUV with sportscar performance. Now comes a flagship model, the DBX707, which the company has declared to be ‘an SUV like no other’. Taking the V8 DBX’s design, dynamics and character as its starting point, the DBX707 enhances those sporting attributes.

Starting with the powertrain, Aston Martin’s engineering team has extracted the full potential of the DBX’s 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 powerplant. Engineered for the DBX707, the engine now features ball bearing turbochargers and a bespoke engine calibration to liberate more power and torque.

Also new is a 9-speed ‘wet clutch’ automatic transmission that has been designed to handle the much increased torque loadings compared with a regular torque converter automatic. In the case of the new engine, the numbers are 707 ps and 900 Nm, increases of 157 ps and 200 Nm over the DBX (V8).

The adoption of the new transmission brings further benefits as well. The shifts are faster and the driver will feel more immediate and direct response. According to Aston Martin, launch capability is also improved, which enables the DBX707 to go from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.3 seconds.

Boosting performance so significantly requires other areas to also be beefed up, particularly stopping power. To provide this, the DBX707 has standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB). Measuring 420 mm in front and 390 mm at the rear, the CCB discs are gripped by 6-piston calipers and result in a 40.5 kg reduction in unsprung weight.

Revisions to the brake system’s hydraulic sizing and booster tune improve pedal feel and braking response for greater precision and driver confidence. Improved brake cooling has been achieved by taking air from both the main cooling intake and the underfloor, with high performance brake pads delivering excellent friction consistency across a wide temperature range.

There’s also a new version of the electronic limited slip rear differential (e-diff). Strengthened to handle the maximum output of torque, it is fitted with a revised (shorter) final drive ratio of 3.27 compared to 3.07 for the DBX V8. This helps to give stronger response in the lower gears as well as enhances in-gear response. However, there is still the efficiency and cruising refinement offered by the 9-speed transmission.

Torque distribution front-to-rear remains fully automatic, with the ability to send up to 100% of the torque to the rear axle on demand. Careful calibration of the e-diff ensures the DBX707 has the cornering agility, sporting feel and dynamic character of a sportscar.

Key to the superior handling is the air suspension system which has the same basic architecture and triple volume air chambers of the DBX V8 but gains a dedicated chassis tune. New damper valving and recalibration of dynamic spring volume switching has improved body control and steering response. The electronic power steering system has also been adjusted to improve steering feel, with greater effort build-up off centre to help the driver build a clearer picture of increasing cornering loads and available grip.

A thorough design makeover differentiates the DBX707 from the DBX V8. There is newfront-end treatment with a larger grille and all-new design of the DRLs. Also new are the air intakes and brake cooling ducts, plus a new front splitter profile. The enlarged grille has double vanes, with the 6 horizontal bars now split to create more visual interest and make this flagship model immediately identifiable.

At the rear end, a new lip spoiler has been added to the roof wing to reduce lift and increase high speed stability, with a significantly enlarged twin rear diffuser rising to meet the new large diameter quad exhaust system. Finished in satin black to complement the gloss black treatment of the diffuser, this new exhaust has been tuned to deliver a unique sound signature.

“Right from its first introduction, the DBX has represented Aston Martin’s dynamic and design values in a way that proves not all SUVs have to conform to the same compromises. With the DBX707, we have pushed the boundaries in every area to create a car which sets new standards of performance and desirability. The fastest, most powerful, best handling and most engaging car of its kind, it propels Aston Martin to the pinnacle of SUV performance,” said Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Tobias Moers.

The Aston Martin DBX SUV is here!


Proton sold 10,611 cars in May 2019

Proton has achieved its highest sales figure in the past four years (46 months to be exact) last month where they sold a whopping 10,611 cars just for May alone. This is a giant leap of over 51% in sales numbers compared to April 2019.

This achievement meant that the first five months of 2019 saw an increase of sales by 70% compared to the same period in 2018. This is all thanks to their strong assault in promoting models with intelligent features that started off with the introduction of the Proton X70 where it trickled down to the rest of the model line-up such as the updated Iriz, Persona, and the Exora.

2,439 units of the Proton X70 were successfully delivered to their new owners last month which total ups to a cool 13,572 units sold in 2019 so far. This also means that the Proton X70 remains as the SUV market leader in overall sales.

The updated
2019 Proton Persona and Iriz
 also gained popularity in the past month where 2,972 units of the Persona and 940 units of the Iriz were sold from across the country. With over 10,000 bookings received so far, we’re pretty sure that the folks from Proton are smiling from ear to ear.

Even the current Proton Saga is still going strong with over 3,000 units delivered for two months in a row now.

According to Dr Li Chunrong, Proton CEO, “With a 70% increase in sales volume thus far in 2019, Proton is reaping some early rewards for its investment in products, people and sales outlets. The Company is hopeful of finishing second overall in total sales for a second consecutive month when overall industry sales figures are revealed by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) and we are confident of being able to maintain our strong sales performance for the rest of the year.”

This is still not inclusive of the recently launched updated
2019 Proton Exora
. The latest Proton model to receive the brand’s intelligent features was just launched last month and with offerings lower than its predecessor, customers can look forward to a more bang-for-your-buck from the new Exora with more features than ever.

“Proton’s strategy for the remainder of the year is to continue to grow our sales by introducing improvements to our current model range and improving our brand experience by opening more 3S/4S outlets as these efforts have obtained positive feedback from our customers. These efforts will help ensure Proton’s brand image is improved as we continue to redefine our brand values in preparation for the introduction of yet more models that are jointly developed with Geely in the future,” added Dr Li Chunrong.

2019 Proton Exora – First ‘talking MPV’ in Malaysia


Mitsubishi Malaysia Is Hosting The Mitsubishi Triton Champion Xperience – From 24 to 25 June

Want to feel the excitement of a rally stage? The Champion Xperience, which is scheduled to take place in Tanamera, Shah Alam from June 24–25, 2023, is where Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is inviting you to do just that.

At the event, you may take a rally taxi trip in the Triton, the pickup truck that triumphed in last year’s Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) on its debut after Team Mitsubishi Ralliart’s comeback to rallying after an 11-year sabbatical.

Additionally, off-road test drives are available if you want to experience the Triton Athlete’s off-road driving capabilities firsthand. Exclusive Champion Xperience T-shirts and RM20 Touch ‘n Go eWallet PIN reloads are only two of the test drive giveaways that MMM will provide to participants.

By participating in the test drive, you’ll also be entered to win a North Face Explore Bardu II bag. Customers who book a Triton at the event will also enjoy exclusive promotions valid until 30 June 2023 and also receive a Stanley lifestyle tumbler. The Triton pick-up truck prices start from RM105,000 and XPANDER starts from RM99,980 quoted on-the-road without insurance (10% SST inclusive) for individual private owners only in Peninsular Malaysia and not applicable in duty-free zones.

Those who are interested may head over to their
website
 and register.


Renault Megane R.S. Trophy-R sets new record at Suzuka

The
Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy-R
 has been on a record-breaking rampage in the past few months and the latest one was set at the legendary Suzuka Circuit of Japan. With Laurent Hurgon again behind the wheel, they’ve successfully set a new front-wheel-drive record of 2:25.454 which is more than three seconds faster than the previous record!

According to Patrice Ratti, Renault Sport Cars General Manager, “The new Mégane R.S. Trophy-R has set a new record in its category, this time at Suzuka, the leading circuit in Japan. This performance is particularly meaningful for the 10,000 strong local community of Renault Sport and Trophy-R fans. It demonstrates the effectiveness of the specific testing campaign we conducted on-site to best meet their expectations. This is enough to further strengthen the relationship with our very international customer base.”

Japan has been a very good market for the R.S. range where around 10,000 Renault Sport fans reside. To date, Japan is the leading market for the R.S. range ahead of Germany and France. Renault also announced that they’ve received over 50 reservations for the Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy-R.

Developed as a racing car, the Trophy-R is primarily focused on offering the ultimate package with enhanced weight reduction (up to 130kg), powerful engine (300hp), improved aerodynamics, and of course, chassis development that’ll greatly assist in tearing up the track like a pro. No wonder it holds the records at Nürburgring AND Spa-Francorchamps.

Renault Mégane R.S. Trophy-R – Top reasons to get one


Opening round of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival Season 4 postponed

To know about other promotions, visit
www.bhpetrol.com.my
.

Last year, the sudden and extended period of the Movement Control Order (MCO) affected all evens in Malaysia, forcing cancellations or postponements. Motorsports were no exception and UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) had to cancel the final round of its Vios Challenge one-make series that was to be held at the Sepang International Circuit.

This year, it was hoped that as things improved, the fourth season of the successful series could proceed as planned, with the first of 6 events with 11 races to begin on January 28. Unfortunately, the pandemic has become more severe again in the past few months with new cases at the 4-digit level daily. This has led the government to impose the MCO again with restrictions on movement that include a ban on interstate travel and a maximum range of 10 kms of travel from the home for essential errands.

In view of this situation, UMWT has to postpone the open round of the Vios Challenge, part of the
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival
. A new date cannot be provided at this time, especially as there is also a state of Emergency (since January 12, 2021) which will be in effect until August 1, 2021. Although it is not an Emergency like the one that the country experienced during the years fighting communist terrorists, there are still restrictions which are aimed at fighting the acovid-19 pandemic.

Related:
Season 4 of Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival in 2021

“As we collectively continue to help flatten the ‘curve’ of the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize and acknowledge the unprecedented toll that it has inflicted on the nation. The race will and must go on – but not until we can together, successfully mitigate the threat of COVID-19 to ensure the safety of all racers, participating teams, officials, spectators and stakeholders,” said Akio Takeyama, GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsport Officer and also UMWT’s Deputy Chairman.

When the situation permits and Season 4 of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival can commence, there will be three individual racing series (Vios Challenge, GAZOO Racing Vios Sprint Cup and GAZOO Racing Enduro Cup) which will provide a total of 11 races.

It has been one of UMWT’s aims to draw a new generation to motorsports with these events and it has been successful in this. There has been growing participation by young racers over the past 3  seasons and many have shown promise. To provide further support, the company has also established a
GAZOO Racing School for a Rookie Class
 in the Vios Challenge.

Related:
GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program

Additionally, besides track events, UMWT has also had alternative motorsport-related activities in the form of online racing which has been timely in view of the current situation. It was the first local car company to become involved in simulator racing or eSports when it started the Toyota GR Velocity eSports Championship in 2018.
Last year’s season
 saw some 720 participants taking part. The 2020 championship offered more than RM70,000 in total prize money, the most lucrative virtual racing event in Malaysia.

Related:
Toyota GR Velocity Esports Championship Grand Final

For updates on the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival and Vios Challenge, visit
toyota.com.my/tgrmalaysia/
.

The story behind TOYOTA GAZOO Racing and why it was created


Naza Kia Malaysia ‘making it rain’ with petrol cards

There are a lot of ways car companies here in Malaysia have been rewarding their loyal customers. As a token of appreciation for their loyalty and support, Naza Kia Malaysia gifted 62 winners of the “Fuel Your Freedom, Discover Malaysia with Kia’ Contest with RM620 worth of petrol cards last weekend at Hilton Kuala Lumpur.

According to Mr R. Devaraju, Deputy Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, “In true Malaysian spirit, Naza Kia Malaysia held a Merdeka and Malaysia Day themed nationwide campaign called ‘Fuel Your Freedom, Discover Malaysia with Kia’ to celebrate our customers’ new ownership experience with KIA and concurrently encourage Malaysians to take a road trip and explore the diversity that makes Malaysia beautiful and unique.”

“Representing one of the leading Korean car brands in the country, we have sold best-selling KIA models over the years, with each being more advanced in technology, design and safety features with every new model launch. We endeavour to continue providing high quality products and services to our loyal customers and make great strides to further elevate the KIA brand,” added Devaraju.

62 winners were picked from the contest based on their entries when they purchased a Kia model from Naza Kia Malaysia’s authorised dealerships between 15 August to 30 September 2019. These winners were picked randomly by a judging panel. Congrats to all of the winners and enjoy your free fuel!

Kia’s ‘Electric Mission’ gains insights into the electrification of personal transport in Europe


How plastic bottles provide Audi with seat upholstery for the new A3

Use of recycled materials in car parts has gone on for a long time as carmakers have tried to contribute to sustainable manufacturing processes. However, cost has also to be considered and with new technologies, recycling processes have been cost-effective enough to use.

Many disused items are recycled – from old jeans to coffee beans to
coffee bean skins
 – and PET (commonly abbreviated from
P
olyethylene t
E
reph
T
halate) bottles are popular for such use. In fact, the fashion industry produces jewelry, clothes and bags from PET bottles.

Audi is also using recycled material for its new fourth generation A3 for the first time as it continues to follow the corporate strategy of sustainability. The A3’s seat upholstery is made from secondary raw materials are being and up to 89% of the textile used comes from recycled PET bottles.

From old to new

In Germany, there are machines which accept PET bottles from the public, for which they get 0.25 euro (around RM1.20) per bottle. The bottles are then compressed for truck transport in order to save space. Once they have arrived at the recycling plant, they are sorted by colour, size and quality. Foreign matter such as the caps are separated.

A mill then crushes the bottles into flakes, which are washed, dried and melted down. Nozzles shape continuous plastic strands out of the mass. Once they have dried, a machine chops them into small pieces. This results in granulate, otherwise known as recyclate, and this undergoes extrusion to create threads. Wound onto coils, these are used in the final stage to manufacture materials.

In Audi’s case, they are transformed into yarn for the seat fabrics. The company says that in terms of look and feel, the quality standards are the same as conventional textile upholstery.

More than 100 PET bottles in a single A3

Up to 45 PET bottles with a capacity of 1.5 litres are used per seating system. On top of this, an additional 62 PET bottles are recycled for the carpet in the new A3. Other components in the interior are also increasingly made of secondary raw materials, eg insulating materials and absorbers, the side panel trims of the luggage compartment, the loading floor and the mats.

At present, the seat upholstery is not yet made completely of recyclable material. “The lower layer of woven material, which is connected to the upper material with adhesive, is what poses the challenge. We are working on replacing this with recyclable polyester,” says Ute Gronheim, who is in charge of material development in the textiles division at Audi. “It is our goal to make the seat upholstery completely from unmixed material so that it can be recycled again. We are no longer very far away from this.”

The latest 4th generation Audi A3

In the long term, all seat upholstery across all model series will be made of recycled material. The goal is clear: the percentage of recycled material in the Audi fleet is to rise considerably in the coming years.

All-new Audi A3 gets more advanced quattro drive


Porsche North America issues recall for Cayenne vehicles built between 2003-2006

Porsche North America has issued a statement regarding the recall of Cayenne vehicles built between 2003-2006. The reason for the recall is due to an issue pertaining to the fuel pump filter. The automaker has found that, overtime and extended usage, hairline cracks could develop on the flange of the fuel pump filter of affected vehicles.

If this does happen, a ‘very small quantity’ of fuel could seep through these cracks, which can cause a noticeable fuel odour. Though the automaker is playing down the issue, when problems regarding fuel seepage arises, they shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Porsche’s remedy for the problem is to  have an authorized dealer replace the fuel pump filter flange at no cost to owners. The procedure should take approximately one and a half hours to complete, which means that inconvenience to Cayenne customers should be kept at a minimum.

So far, the German automaker has identified that 50,145 Cayenne vehicles are affected by the recall in North America. It is treating the rectification process as a ‘voluntary recall’, meaning that the issue isn’t of immediate concern to Cayenne owners.

That said, this problem seems to be isolated to the North American market. As for now, vehicles sold in other parts of the world don’t seem to have inherited this defect. Vehicles built in that part of the world, rarely share similar parts or suppliers with identical models sold in other markets.

Though many consider it as a point against Porsche’s Quality Control procedures, this goes to show that customer satisfaction is a priority for Porsche. Unlike some automakers, the company isn’t fully focused on sales profit, instead, it is still concerned with the safety of customers who have older models and are content with keeping them.


Low interest rates and rebates for Mitsubishi Triton, Outlander or ASX

From today until the end of 2019, special hire-purchase (H-P) loan interest rates as low as 0.88% per annum are available for those who want to buy a new Mitsubishi Triton. Alternatively, instead of the low interest rates, customers can opt for cash rebates of up to RM10,000 (depending on the variant).

This promotion is in conjunction with the upcoming year-end festivities and is available only for H-P loans taken from Maybank or Public Bank (terms and conditions apply). The chart below shows the special offers for the different variants.

Besides the offers for the Triton, there are also special offers for the Outlander SUV which is available with 2.0-litre or 2.4-litre petrol engines. Cash rebates of up to RM4,000 are offered plus 2-Years of Free Scheduled Maintenance and RM2,000, and 2-Years of Free Scheduled Maintenance, respectively.

For those who want something smaller, there’s the ASX. Though in the market for some time now, it is still good value for money with prices starting from RM118,866. 4WD and 2WD versions are available and if you buy one during the promotion period, you can get a cash rebate of up to RM12,000.

Mitsubishi owners in Malaysia happiest with customer services, according to latest J.D. Power study


Original 1994 Subaru Prodrive 555 Group A Impreza found and auctioned in Australia

A rare Subaru Prodrive 555 Group A Impreza GC8 47D is currently being auctioned in Australia by Lloyds Auctions. The car was used by Colin McRae as well as Carlos Sainz in the World Rally Championship (WRC) is unrestored and in untouched condition from when it was retired in 1996.

This rallycar, developed in 1993, is a significant model in WRC history and was the first car to use the famous L555REP numberplates, celebrating Repsol’s sponsorship with Carlos Sainz and Subaru. It won 3rd place in the 1994 Monte Carlo Rally with Sainz at the wheel.

The Subaru is authenticated original by ICAAARS and Possum Bourne Motor Sport (PBMS) and has been in storage with only 3 owners since it was raced. It still has the original Prodrive 2-litre turbocharged boxer engine and 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Subaru rallycar in action during the 1995 World Rally Championship.

“When we originally saw this car, it was a barn find with an estimated value of A$15,000 – $20,000 (about RM45,600 – RM61,000). Today it’s had a wash and a check of its history, and it may well be worth more than A$1 million (about RM3.041 million),” said Lee Hames, Chief Operating Officer for Lloyds Auctions. The current bid for the car is A$255,000 (about RM775,600).

2022 Subaru WRX starts fifth generation of rally-bred icon


BMW M8 prototype to debut at Nürburgring 24-hour race

BMW has revealed that alongside the development of the new 8 Series, the automaker’s engineers are also working on the M version of the car. The fully camouflaged prototype will make an appearance as a driving presentation, which is part of the support programme for the Nürburgring 24-hour race.

“The conception and development of the standard BMW 8 Series and the M model run in parallel,” explains Frank van Meel, President BMW M Division. The future BMW M8 will build on the genes of the 8 Series and augment its DNA with added track ability and generous extra portions of dynamic sharpness, precision and agility. It all flows into a driving experience that bears the familiar BMW M hallmarks and satisfies our customers’ most exacting requirements.”

The car is said to feature classic M design features which include large air intakes, modified brakes and a sports exhaust with four tailpipes. The M8 will also be the base on which BMW will build their M8 GTE race car that will spearhead the German automaker’s charge for the Le Mans title.

Development has already begun with the hopes of a debut sometime this year, but the car will only enter competitive racing next year beginning with the Daytona 24 Hours.

Take a look at the picture gallery below for a basic idea of what the M8 might eventually look like. We know its not much to go on, but something is better than nothing.


Auto Bavaria introduces i-Service for BMW customers in Klang Valley

Authorised BMW dealership Auto Bavaria has launched a new service for customers which gives them the convenience of having their BMW vehicles at their doorstep. Said to be the first of its kind, the Auto Bavaria i-Service service can be requested through the company’s mobile application.

Additionally, using the app, owners can book service appointments, check their vehicle service history, view the service progress, and make payments. It also has a special ‘track & chat’ feature to track the location of the i-Service vehicle and chat with technicians to monitor the progress of their vehicle being serviced.

Customers can direct the i-Service vehicle to a location closest to them – be it at home or at the workplace within a 40-km radius from Auto Bavaria dealerships – to perform scheduled maintenance services. Such services include oil change, brake pad change, tyre change, and tyre balancing and battery change, saving them a trip to the service centre.

Every i-service vehicle is equipped with the latest tools and equipment and manned by experienced and qualified technicians. They carry BMW genuine parts which are needed as well.

Prior to any work commencing, customers receive cost estimates, including itemised costs for parts and labour beforehand. This ensures price transparency so that customers can make informed decisions about the maintenance of their vehicles.

Initially, there will be three i-Service vehicles catering to prime areas in the Klang Valley, with plans for expansion in the near future. The service is available from Mondays to Saturdays (except public holidays) during normal working hours.

“Quality, efficiency and innovation are the three cornerstones of our vision in providing first-class and uncompromising aftersales service to our customers. Auto Bavaria i-Service is a testament to our commitment in delivering greater convenience, innovative solutions and peace of mind when it comes to caring for the needs of our customers, and in preparing ourselves for the future of automotive ownership experience,” said the MD of Auto Bavaria, Vi Thim Juan.

Click here for other news and articles about BMW
.


F1/Round 4: Highlights & Provisional Results For 2021 Spanish Grand Prix

♦ No incidents on the opening lap for a change but Lewis Hamilton lost his lead at the first corner to Max Verstappen, while Charles Leclerc slipped past Valtteri Bottas to take third place. Not a great start for the two Mercedes-AMG drivers.

♦ There was some puzzlement as Pierre Gasly seemed to have started in the wrong position, which the Stewards looked into. They later found that he had moved too soon at the start and gave him a 5-second penalty.

♦ Although Leclerc had gotten in front of Bottas, he could not run away and the Mercedes-AMG driver was cautious too. Meanwhile, Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez ere getting closer to the front.

♦ On lap 9, Scuderia Alphatauri’s Yuki Tsunoda had to pull to the side of the track as his car seemed to lose power (it was later reported to be a fuel pressure issue). His parked position being hazardous brought the Safety Car out. The day before, the Japanese driver had made critical remarks about what he felt was difference in performance between his car and team mate Gasly’s – but later apologised to his team, saying he was frustrated by the way the car behaved.

♦ The Safety Car was only required for one lap and by lap 10, the race resumed, with Verstappen still ahead and trying to extend the gap from Hamilton again.

♦ While the Safety Car was on the track, Antonio Giovinazzi raced into the Alfa Romeo pits to get the tyres changed… but a delay saw him fuming for longer than necessary and when he rejoined, he had dropped all the way to the back.

♦ Lance Stroll was waiting to pounce on Fernando Alonso the moment the Safety Car moved off, and when he did so, he timed it perfectly and powered past the Spaniard on the outside of Turn 4 to take 10th position.

♦ Going to lap 20, Hamilton was still behind Verstappen but the gap was not changing much. However, the British driver had concerns about his tyres although he is well known at being able to manage them when things get tough.

♦ At the one-third mark – 22 laps – the watching began as the leaders waited to see who would head to the pits first. The Safety Car had made a one-stop strategy a realistic possibility but for Verstappen, the gap was still too small. Further back in the field, though, the rush to the pits started as one driver after another came in.

♦ Bottas came in on lap 24 and on the next lap, Verstappen decided to also come in and spent just 4.2 seconds getting the tyres changed. When he rejoined, he slotted into fifth, just behind team mate Perez. But it was only momentarily as Perez dutifully moved aside to let him start the chase. Hamilton, in spite of tyre concerns, decided to stay out a bit longer and see if he could get a good gap in the lead.

♦ Toto Wolff was unhappy seeing that Haas driver Nikita Mazepin making it difficult for Hamilton to get by. He informed the officials and asked for action to be taken to make sure the Russian driver did not cause unnecessary problems. When other drivers have complained about him, Mazepin has used his rookie ‘inexperience’ as an excuse.

♦ Hamilton was finally called in on lap 29 and a hard-charging Verstappen quickly took over the lead. The chase was on again for Hamilton, now with fresh tyres and a gap of 2 seconds to close. As an indication of his determination, he set the fastest lap as the race crossed the halfway point.

♦ At the other end of the field, Nicholas Latifi pushed Giovinazzi to make a mistake on lap 37 and swept by to take 16th position, just behind his Williams team mate Georg Russell. Sebastian Vettel and Alonso, both past world champions, were also engaged in a battle for 11th place.

♦ Ricciardo was trying whatever he could to prevent Perez from passing him and eventually, his weaving was noticeable and he received an official warning (via his team) to stop such driving tactics.

♦ On lap 43, Hamilton was asked to come in for a set of mediums which would be advantageous when the race entered its final stages. His position was taken by Bottas who kept the Red Bull in sight and when Hamilton got back, he was 22 seconds behind Verstappen. He was about a second quicker per lap than the Red Bull driver, and if he kept that pace, he would catch up by the last lap as 22 laps remained.

♦ By lap 48, Perez finally out-manoeuvered Ricciardo on the outside and grabbed fifth place, with Leclerc next on his list.

♦ On lap 53, Hamilton was trailing his team mate and ready to pass, but Bottas didn’t seem to want to give up his position readily. But he got called in for another set of tyres so Hamilton was able to see Verstappen right in his sights. The gap was around 10 seconds and the number of laps remaining in the race was 12.

♦ With 9 laps remaining, Bottas was in fourth but with fresh tyres, he would be able to displace Lerclerc (who had done only one tyre change) and get up on the podium. There was even the possibility of second place if the Red Bull tyres couldn’t last till the end.

♦ As the 60th lap started, Hamilton was slipstreaming Verstappen’s car and going into Turn 1, the Mercedes-AMG surged past on the outside and took the lead. Having dropped a place, the Red Bull team decided to bring him their car in for a new set of tyres, by which time the gap to Hamilton had stretched to 23 seconds. He therefore had to just keep ahead of Bottas who was about 11 seconds behind. The new tyres gave Verstappen to set a very fast lap so he could get that 1 extra point.

♦ Once again, it was Hamilton who took the chequered flag at the Spanish Grand Prix, the victory being his 98th in his 14 years of racing in F1. The top four finishers ended the race as they had started it, and Tsunoda was the only non-finisher.


The powerbank for Datsun Fairlady 240Z fans!

Powerbanks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes these days. Some have unique designs and for car-lovers, especially those who are fans of the Datsun Fairlady 240Z, there’s a powerbank shaped just like the legendary car. A product of Links International based in Japan, the powerbank is a collaboration between the 21-year old company and Nissan.

The energy storage device is a faithful scale reproduction of the sportscar and has functioning headlights and taillights which illuminate to indicate the amount of charge available and status. When charging a device, the white LEDs of the headlights come on, and when the remaining power is 10% or less, the headlights go off. Then the red LEDs of the taillights flash like a brake lamp; when the battery pack is fully recharged again, the headlights will switch on.

It has a single USB port that swivels out from the underside to connect a cable to the smartphone and a low charging rate of 1A/5V. The capacity of the 130 gm unit is 4,500 mAh which takes approximately 6 – 9 hours to fully recharge through the Micro USB port. The powerbank can be recharged for 500 times.

To protect the device being charged, there are safety circuits to prevent  overcharging, over-discharging and short-circuit.

The Datsun Fairlady 240Z Powerbank has been in the Japanese market a while now and is still available from the
Nissan Online Shop
 and some online stores in Japan, priced at 6,600 yen which is equivalent to around RM260.

This Lego Nissan GT-R Nismo is what you’ll want in 2020


PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race Fuel Contest offers condominium unit and Mercedes-Benz SUV as top prizes

For the coming 3 months, motorists will have an opportunity to win great prizes in the nationwide PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race Fuel Contest. The prizes are worth a total of almost RM1 million and include a brand new condominium and a Mercedes-Benz SUV.

To participate, customers only need to fuel up a minimum of RM40 of the new
PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race
 in a single receipt. There must also be 3 separate transactions within the same month at any given period throughout the campaign duration which runs until
May 31, 2021
. After three successful transactions, a badge will be unlocked and customers will stand a chance to win amazing prizes.

Having more badges means higher chances of winning. These badges are available on the
Setel app
 and those who transact using the app will receive an additional bonus entry, which increases their chances of winning. Customers who use other payment methods can participate via app.setel.my.

The Grand Prize is a 1-bedroom unit at Verdi Condominium in Cyberjaya (sponsored by UEM Sunrise Berhad) which is worth approximately RM600,000. This is followed by the First Prize which is a
Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG Line
 worth close to RM300,000.

A unit at the Verdi Eco-dominium in Cyberjaya (above) and the Mercedes-Benz GLA250 AMG Line are the top two prizes.

Monthly prizes too

There will also be monthly prizes ranging from 1-year complimentary fuel supply worth RM3,000 for three winners, RM100 Setel e-vouchers for 100 winners, and two units of PETRONAS Syntium 3000 5W-30 lubricants worth RM360 for 20 winners.

Commenting on the initiative, PDB’s Head of Retail Business Khalil Muri said: “We are very excited about our new premium fuel and we want motorists to try and experience the power themselves. Thanks to our sponsors, UEM Sunrise Berhad and our very own PETRONAS Lubricant Marketing Malaysia Sdn Bhd, we are able to successfully design a contest that awards our loyal customers with meaningful rewards.”

“Aligned with UEM Sunrise’s brand purpose to inspire joy and happiness one space at a time, we are delighted to partner with a reputable brand as PETRONAS to further drive excitement and bring value to the customers’ lives through this campaign. Verdi Eco-dominiums is one of our award-winning developments built with an array of smart qualities and equipped with green building features – a perfect complement to the lifestyle of PETRONAS customers and their premium choice of fuel. For that, we look forward to welcome PETRONAS customers into UEM Sunrise’s happy community.” said UEM Sunrise Chief Marketing Officer, Kenny Wong.

About PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race

Launched in December last year, the all-new
PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race
 has proven to deliver three key benefits that are most relevant to motorists today – power, responsiveness and efficiency.

Dubbed as its best fuel, the PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race utilises a formulation that is unique to PETRONAS. It is enhanced with the world’s first Advanced Dual Friction Modifier that reduces friction by 25% more than the previous fuel. The new friction modifier chemistry also incorporates a unique fuel and oil interaction formulation that helps increase fuel efficiency, resulting in further mileage and lower carbon emissions. The new fuel also removes 99.9% of deposits from key areas in the engine, unlocking the car’s full potential to achieve effortless power.

The performance of the new fuel was confirmed by customers through a series of blind tests. Conducted in real driving and road conditions, the test results revealed that a majority experienced better performance from PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race, compared with other premium fuels that they currently use. Specifically, 69% agreed that the new fuel delivers more power and 66% agreed that it is more responsive. In terms of efficiency, 73% of participants confirmed that the new fuel recorded more kilometres per litre, consequently emitting less carbon.

To know more about the PETRONAS Primax 97 with Pro-Race Fuel Contest and other PETRONAS products and services, visit
www.mymesra.com.my
.


Remodelling the iconic Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy for the fully electric Spectre in 2023

Next year, Rolls-Royce will unveil
Spectre
, its fully electric limousine that will go on sale in 2024. The final form that the car will have would have been approved so much work would have been done in the wind tunnel to make it as aerodynamically efficient as possible. For electric cars, this is vital to minimise the power used to overcome wind resistance and achieve high performance.

Wind tunnel studies cover every centimetre of the bodywork and even the tiniest details need to be shaped correctly for minimum wind resistance. This includes the
 iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine
 that stands on the edge of the bonnet. She will also grace the bonnet of the Spectre and after 111 years since being registered as intellectual property of Rolls-Royce, the Spirit of Ecstasy is being remodelled again.

The figurine has been remodelled with a lower, more dynamic stance that brings her much closer to the drawings made by her original creator, the illustrator and sculptor Charles Sykes, in the early years of the 20
th
 century. It also sees her physical form represent ‘The Expression’, a visual device that forms part of the marque’s new visual language.

The new Spirit of Ecstasy stands 82.73 mm tall, compared to her predecessor’s 100.01 mm. Her robes, which flow behind her in the slipstream (often but incorrectly characterised as ‘wings’) have been subtly reshaped to make them more aerodynamic and realistic.

The most visible change is her stance. Previously, she has stood with her feet together, legs straight and tilting at the waist. Now, she is a true goddess of speed, braced for the wind, one leg forward, body tucked low, her eyes focused eagerly ahead.

The new stance of the Spirit of Ecstasy and the one (inset) seen on current Rolls-Royce models.

These changes have both practical and stylistic benefits, contributing to the Spectre’s aerodynamic properties which Rolls-Royce says will be remarkable. The earliest Spectre prototypes have already shown a drag coefficient of just 0.26 Cd, making it the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce ever created. The figure is expected to improve during the product’s exhaustive testing protocols undertaken in the course of this year.

This new expression captures the essence of Charles Sykes’ original drawings, but rather than simply being ‘redrawn’ or ‘redesigned’, her new shape has been digitally sculpted by a computer modeller working at the Rolls-Royce, who has a passion for life drawing and sculpture. Their experience in this field was invaluable in developing the figurine’s elegant lifelike facial features as well as her expression, which deftly combines focus and serenity.

The designers also consulted stylists at Roll-Royce for their perspective on her hair, clothes, posture, and expression, adding an authentically contemporary aura to her dynamism and commanding presence.

While all figurines are made using one of the oldest known casting techniques, named ‘lost wax casting’ or ‘cire-perdue’, each is individually finished by hand, so will be minutely different from figurine to figurine. As well as continuing a long Rolls-Royce tradition – until 1939, the mascots were made and polished by Charles Sykes himself – this subtle, ephemeral human element creates an intriguing contrast to the precise, highly engineered motor car she sits atop.

Though relatively rare in the modern era, changes to the Spirit of Ecstasy have been made throughout her 111-year lifespan. She has been rendered in various sizes and materials and, briefly, in a kneeling position. The new version created for the Spectre will appear on all future models. The current design will still be used on Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn and Cullinan and their Black Badge alter egos where applicable.

The fully electric Spectre will make its debut in 2023 and it will be the most aerodynamic Roll-Royce ever designed for sale.

“The Spirit of Ecstasy is the most famous and desirable automotive mascot in the world. More than just a symbol, she is the embodiment of our brand, and a constant source of inspiration and pride for the marque and its clients. Like our brand, she has always moved with the times while staying true to her nature and character. In her new form she is more streamlined and graceful than ever before – the perfect emblem for the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce ever created, and for gracing the prow of our bold electric future,” said Torsten Muller-Otvos, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Leading every Rolls-Royce for 110 years – the Spirit of Ecstasy


Ford M-Sport Team to switch to Puma Rally1 hybrid rallycar from 2022 World Rally Championship

Ford, in partnership with the M-Sport Ford World Rally Team, is one of the three major manufacturers participating in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The team, based in Britain, has so far been using the Fiesta WRC  rallycar but from the 2022 season, it will switch to a Puma Hybrid. The first event it will compete in will be the 2022 Monte Carlo Rally in January next year.

Replacement for Fiesta WRC

The new rallycar replaces the Fiesta WRC which has won three world championship titles since 2017. Since 1997, Ford has been working with M-Sport to compete in the WRC, and the partnership has a total of 7 world championship titles.

Based on EcoBoost Hybrid system

The prototype of the all-wheel drive Puma Rally1 has a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and plug-in hybrid system with 100 kW (136 ps) additional power and 3.9 kWh battery capacity. The new plug-in hybrid powertrain will provide competition-level performance as well as the ability to travel through towns, cities and service parks between stages using pure-electric power and therefore zero emissions.

The Puma Rally1’s hybrid system operates using similar principles to the Puma EcoBoost Hybrid road car. The powertrain captures energy normally lost during braking and coasting (regeneration) and stores it in the battery pack to power the electric motor. While this can be used to improve fuel efficiency, the rally drivers are likely to use it for a performance boost – as much as 100 kW for multiple boosts of up to 3 seconds during competitive driving.

The battery pack can also be recharged using an external power source at service points between stages, with a recharge taking approximately 25 minutes. Weighing 95 kgs, the hybrid system is liquid-cooled as well as air-cooled and housed in a ballistic-strength casing to resist the impact of debris and
g
-forces in the event of an accident, an important consideration in rallies.

In addition, FIA WRC Rally1 competitors must use a fossil-free fuel from the 2022 season, blending synthetic and bio-degradable elements to produce an
E-fuel
 that is 100% sustainable.

Big technological advancement in WRC

“The new era of WRC cars is one of the biggest technological advancements in WRC to date. The introduction of the hybrid means that the cars will be more powerful than ever whilst also directly reflecting the powertrains within their road going counterparts,” said Malcolm Wilson, Managing Director of M-Sport who was formerly a work WRC driver as well.

The Puma Rally1 will replace the Fiesta WRC which the Ford M-Sport Team is currently using in the WRC.

Team Fordzilla’s P1 ultimate virtual racing car turned into a real model


Mercedes-AMG ONE Sets New Record For Road-legal Production Cars At Nurburgring-Nordschleife

Mercedes-AMG is the first car manufacturer to run a production hypercar on Nurburgring Nordschleife – and it has also set official records there to become the absolute fastest road-legal car on the circuit.

The record-breaking drives were set on October 28 in conditions that did not look suited to set sizzling times. But it was on the last attempt of the day, as conditions improved, that racing driver and AMG brand ambassador Maro Engel clocked his best lap time to set the new official record of 6:35.183 minutes. Engel’s run was just in time as about a minute after completion, it was the official closure time for the track.

Production model
Mercedes-AMG has brought two ONEs to the circuit and the documents of each were checked by TUV Rheinland to ensure that they were in production models. A notary confirmed the proper condition of the vehicles and the correct execution of the record runs.

Technically, the record-breaking vehicle had everything that the Mercedes-AMG ONE offers as standard. Including the hybrid-drive technology from the F1 racing cars. With one combustion engine and 4 electric motors, the E PERFORMANCE hybrid generates a total of 782 kW (1,063 ps) and can reach a top speed capped at 352 km/h.

Motorsport technologies
The other motorsport technology ranges from the carbonfibre monocoque and bodyshell to the engine/transmission unit as a stressed member and active aerodynamics to the pushrod chassis. With its complex technology, the 2-seater ONE offers even more than a F1 racing car in some cases. It features the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all‑wheel drive with a hybrid-driven rear axle and electrically driven front axle with torque vectoring.

For the record drive, the maximum camber values within the delivery tolerance were selected. Engel chose the ‘Race Plus’  driving programme for his runs. This has settings for active, maximum possible aerodynamics, tight chassis tuning, vehicle lowering by 37 mm at the front axle and 30 mm at the rear axle and full power from all motors.

The Drag Reduction System) is activated by the driver by pressing a button on the steering wheel. This retracts the front louvres on the wings as well as the upper aero element of the 2-stage rear wing. If the system detects deceleration or a certain degree of lateral acceleration, the aero elements extend again in a flash.

Optimal energy management
The record lap in the hybrid super sportscar required not only driving skills but also an intelligent driving style. Engel used special energy management for the lap of the 20.8-km Nordschleife. This meant that he could not accelerate to the maximum possible speed on all sections of the track, but also had to manage his energy. To do this, he used the 4-stage Energy Flow Control system to let off the gas a little earlier in some sections (known as ‘lift and coast’ in technical jargon).

In addition, Maro also used energy recovery in the braking phases. Thus, even on the long Dottinger Hohe, the high-performance battery pack still offered enough power for a 338 km/h top speed.

“That was really an unforgettable experience,” said Engel after completing the record lap. “I didn’t expect that we would be able to set such a lap time with these track conditions. In some crucial areas of the track, it hadn’t dried completely yet and was therefore tricky. That was a special challenge. We tried to find the optimal deployment strategy during the pre-tests. Like Lewis Hamilton and George Russell on their race weekends, I also had to deploy the electrical energy of the hybrid drive in the best possible way. That’s not easy, especially with this length of track.”

Mercedes-AMG Project ONE hypercar stars in new Forza Horizon 5 game (w/VIDEO)

Click here
 for more videos at The Piston Show.