From this month Shell Malaysia and BonusLink are offering their Extra rewards and loyalty programme with enhancements. The consumer rewards programme, now having more than 14.9 million members nationwide, has a new 4-level structure – Member, Silver, Gold and Platinum – which increases the level of rewards as members collect more BonusLink points at Shell stations nationwide.
Get points with card or app
As always, getting Bonuslink points can be done by fuelling up, or buying snacks or lubricants at the stores in the stations. Points can be collected either by using the BonusLink card or the BLINK App with each purchase.
Depending on the tier status, members are entitled to enjoy customer-exclusive rewards and various perks of up to 3X BonusLink Points multiplier, Deli2Go and Upsize Coffee promo, discounts on Shell products, birthday treats and more.
Extra rewarding experience
“As a mobility retailer, we are constantly evolving with our customers and striving to provide quality at every touchpoint. Our partnership with BonusLink allows us to give our customers an extra rewarding experience every time they fuel and shop at our stations,” said Seow Lee Ming, General Manager Mobility, Shell Malaysia & Singapore.
“Starting July 2022, BonusLink is taking the loyalty services one step further to reward our loyalty members. This is an exciting time for us as we begin to transform our service offerings to add value and to offer more rewards to our members based on their level. With this, members can enjoy an array of goodies and Extra Points simply by continuing to swipe their BonusLink Card or their Virtual Card via BLINK App at Shell,” explained Melvin Ooi, CEO of BonusLink.
Contrary to whatever you make think, the internal combustion engine that Rudolf Diesel invented in the late 19th century is not ready to go into the history books yet. The engine named after him that has powered millions of vehicles – and not just motor vehicles – for more than 100 years may have gained a bad reputation at various times in its life, but its robustness and fuel efficiency have made it the preferred choice for commercial vehicles.
The introduction of the commonrail high-pressure fuel delivery system 20 years ago made it more popular for passenger vehicles as it enhanced performance and various solutions were found to reduce its ‘dirty’ image (although ‘dieselgate’ was damaging). Nevertheless, today’s diesel engines, mostly with turbochargers boosting output, are still popular powerplants for vehicles like pick-up trucks and SUVs in the passenger-carrying category.
Mazda has been one of the diesel ‘loyalists’ and used its long engineering expertise to develop powerful, clean and efficient engines as part of the SKYACTIV powertrain family. Like some other Japanese carmakers, Mazda believes that a multi-solution approach is more suitable in the quest to reducing emissions to address climate change. Not all countries will be able to switch to electric vehicles at the same pace and some may still require combustion engines or hybrids, at least.
It has therefore not given up further development on combustion engines, pushing to the limits of the envelope to achieve lower emissions and better performance. It has now revealed an all-new e-SKYACTIV-D diesel engine which will be added to the Mazda CX-60 line-up in 2023.
Super-clean diesel engine
The new diesel engine is a Mazda first – a 3.3-litre unit that features Distribution-Controlled Partially Premixed Compression Ignition (DCPCI) Technology. This highly innovative advanced combustion technology makes the new e-SKYACTIV-D one of the cleanest diesel engines in the world, achieving a thermal efficiency of over 40%.
Developed using the ‘right sizing’ concept which optimises displacement to improve both fuel and power efficiency, the 3283 cc longitudinally installed commonrail electric direct injection 6-cylinder engine will have two power output levels: 200 ps and 254 ps. Depending on the model variant, there will be either 2-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Uses 48V hybrid boost system
The engine uses a new 48V Mazda M Hybrid Boost system to combine high output with excellent fuel economy. Together with the DCPCI technology, engine efficiency, emissions and fuel economy are improved. These contribute significantly to greater driving range, better performance and yet lower fuel consumption and low emissions.
6-cylinder engines are inherently smooth due to their ‘perfect balance’, which will contribute to drive enjoyment. The engine’s high torque delivery gives strong pulling power, even with a 2,500-kg trailer. Though it has a larger displacement and more cylinder, the e-SKYACTIV-D’s lightweight construction makes it weigh not more than the 2.2-litre Mazda SKYACTIV-D 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine used in the CX-5.
More new powertrains coming
In total, Mazda is launching 5 new electrified products in the next 3 years that feature its multi-solution platform architecture. These will include an in-line straight-six 3-litre e-SKYACTIV petrol engine and an e-Skyactiv PHEV. For the European market, the launch of the new CX-60 will take Mazda further forward in its fleet’s emission reduction to become entirely carbon-neutral by 2050. After 2025, the company will launch its brand new SKYACTIV EV Scalable Architecture which will allow Mazda to efficiently build electric cars of all sizes using one common platform.
Mazda to use SKYACTIV-D engine with next-generation biofuel in endurance racing
Proton has long had its own engine factory, with the first one having been opened in the Glenmarie industrial estate of Selangor in the 1990s. Over the years, this factory has provided millions of engines for various Proton models and continues to do so.
Now, with the new generation of engines in the carmaker’s latest models, it is time to have a new facility to assemble the 1.5-litre TGDI (Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection) JLH-3G15TD 3-cylinder engine used in the X50 and X70 models. This is the first time the engine is being assembled outside China at is one of the most advanced automotive engine assembly lines in the country at the Proton Tanjung Malim manufacturing complex in Perak.
Located within the Engine and Powertrain facility, the assembly line covers an area of 18,000 sq. metres and has a current maximum capacity of 180,000 engines when running on three shifts. The new facility is also part of the RM1.8 billion Proton is making to upgrade its facilities at Tanjung Malim, also known as Proton City.
Award-winning engine
The award-winning JLH-3G15TD engine is used not only by Proton but also by other brands in the diverse Geely Group. When the many other models are included, over 750,000 vehicles sold globally are now powered by this engine.
The engine, the result of a project which started about 10 years ago, follows industry trends of downsizing to gain better fuel efficiency and also reduce undesirable exhaust emissions. While downsizing the displacement on its own has meant lower power output, this is not the case with the JLH-3G15TD. In fact, in spite of its smaller displacement and one cylinder less, its output is actually comparable to much bigger engines with 130 kW and 255 Nm.
This has been possible with advanced technologies, 4 valves per cylinder, dual variable valve timing, optimised thermal and lubrication systems, a low inertia turbocharger, and homogenised 200-bar direct fuel injection system. It is also capable of meeting Euro 6 requirements.
Localisation of parts
As a Malaysian carmaker, Proton has always prioritised localisation and where possible, it has sourced parts from Malaysian suppliers, although in the era of globalisation, there are also some suppliers from other countries in the region. For this new engine, there are currently 72 parts supplied by 19 Malaysian and 4 ASEAN vendors.
The company is also using the new assembly line to advance its human capital development goals, with 202 workers directly employed to work there. With an average age of just 24 years, they represent the next generation of skilled automotive manpower for the nation.
“Proton’s new engine assembly line showcases the company keeping its promises to its stakeholders. When the agreement was made to partner with Geely in 2017, one of our commitments was to invest in Malaysia’s automotive industry both financially and through the introduction of new high technology components. The new assembly line does this while also giving PROTON an avenue to attract and develop young talents who will help drive the automotive industry and the company into the future,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton.
A closer look at the facility
Featuring 88 stations consisting of 17 automatic, 15 semi-automatic and 56 manual stations, the high-tech assembly line was built using an IR 4.0 ethos applying a high level of automation to boost productivity. A climate-controlled clean environment with an anti-static station to allow for the discharge of static electricity protects the electronic components used, while the assembly line utilises a conveyor system. This is not only smoother but is also cleaner, more durable and less costly to operate than one that uses a chain.
All workers on the assembly line have undergone extensive training with Geely as well as the suppliers of the machines used. The equipment comes from well known suppliers such as ABB, COMAU, FEV China, FEV India, WiBeda and Hangxin.
The Internet of Things (IOT) technology is deployed in the form of intensive data capture and analytical tools to ensure that the quality meets the standards required and are maintained. Additionally, 207 Error Mistake Proofing (EMP) controls and 34 intelligent high-resolution cameras have been installed on the line to prevent process and assembly defects and reduce downtime with 100% real-time defect detection capabilities.
“Quality is the main priority at our new engine assembly line. We know we need to show Malaysians that Proton is capable of building reliable high-quality products, so we have left nothing to chance. Aside from the quality monitoring measures deployed on the assembly line, we also work closely with our counterparts at Geely to trouble shoot issues and share best practices in our efforts to produce a world-class engine,” added Encik Roslan Abdullah.
Proton constructing additional stamping facility at Tanjung Malim factory
With steady progress towards resolving issues delaying production of new vehicles, Proton recorded its best sales month of 2022 with 14,787 units (domestic + export) registered in June. This volume represented a 51.0% growth over the previous month, taking total sales for the first half the year past 60,000 units. The 60,124 units delivered were an increase of 3.9% over the same period in 2021.
Overall, Proton retains its second position in new vehicle sales in Malaysia and estimates its market share to be 22.6%. The cumulative market share for the year is 18.2%, a decrease of 5.1% compared to the first 6 months of last year. This is based on an expected Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 331,164 units (the Malaysian Automotive Association will announce confirmed data later in the month).
Proton X50 achieves best sales month
Launched in October 2020, the X50 SUV has been remained a strong seller for Proton. It has helped catapult the brand to the position of best-selling SUV brand in the country. June saw the X50 recording its best sales month with 4,473 units delivered nationwide. This volume was clearly ahead of other B-segment SUVs as well as in the overall SUV market.
The X50’s bigger brother, the X70, also saw strong sales, especially with the updated model. It achieved its best performance in 20 months with 2,696 units. This volume, according to Proton, puts it at the top of the C-segment SUV list.
Another model enjoying the benefits of a recent refresh is the Saga, with the 2022 model introduced on May 12. In June, 5,460 units were delivered, which Proton says puts it back to the top of the A-segment sedan class. During the first 6 months of 2022, the model’s cumulative total has reached 23,484 units.
The evergreen Exora MPV has kept its leadership in the C-segment MPV class and in June, the company delivered 513 units. As for the Persona and Iriz, these two trusty models recorded deliveries of 1,224 units and 421 units, respectively.
Over 150,000 bookings in 6 months
“June was a busy month for the automotive industry with most brands trying to produce as many cars as possible to satisfy market demand. The announcement that sales tax exemption would be removed from July 1 also created a surge in bookings as customers rushed to take advantage of the savings offered. Proton has received more than 150,000 bookings for the first 6 months of the year and when added to carry-over orders from 2021, we will need to work hard to deliver cars as quickly as possible to eager customers,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton.
“Thankfully, the gradual resolution to our parts shortage issues has not only boosted production but also had a positive effect on the aftersales network. As promised, all our 3S/4S outlets now have 3 months stock of fast-moving parts and this is replicated at our parts warehouse. Supply issues for other parts are also being resolved so we are hopeful of delivering a higher level of aftersales service to our customers soon,” he added.
Top exporter
Proton was the first company to export vehicles from Malaysia and today, it is also the top vehicle exporter. While its domestic sales continue to grow, the growth in export sales has also been significant. For the first half of 2022, the total number of vehicles exported was 2,722 units, an increase of 81.2% over the previous year.
The Saga has accounted for 59% of the total volume exported but the X70 and X50 are also growing in demand at a faster pace. As in the domestic market, June also saw both model posting their best-ever export numbers and Proton expects even better numbers in coming months.
Pakistan continues to be the biggest export market, taking 1,770 units for the first half of 2022, a growth of 183% compared to the first half of 2021. This was followed by Brunei and Bangladesh with 203 and 194 units, respectively. Local assembly in some countries is helping Proton’s distributors to price the models competitively in their markets.
“Proton’s exports are one of the pillars to drive our future growth and also in line with our promise to the government to help develop Malaysia’s automotive export industry. With the addition of new markets such as South Africa to our portfolio, we target for export volumes to continue on their current growth trajectory and form an even larger portion of our sales in the future,” Encik Roslan Abdullah said.
1989 Proton Saga wins Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional in the UK
Car showrooms in shopping centres are not something new in Malaysia, with the first one having been set up as far back as the 1970s by Asia Motors, then the Mazda and Peugeot distributor, at Asiajaya in Petaling Jaya, Selangor. However, back then, companies displayed and sold just cars and little else but in the 21st century, car ownership is more of a ‘lifestyle’ thing, especially in the premium segment. So car companies have more diverse offerings at their retail outlets to cover different aspects of their customers’ lifestyles as well.
More than just new car displays
This is reflected in the neu lifestyle concept store at 1 Utama Shopping Centre in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, which has been set up by Cycle & Carriage, the well known Mercedes-Benz dealership. The German word ‘neu’ (pronounced noy) means ‘new’, and is an appropriate name for the store which offers new experiences for those seeking the finer things in life, besides cars.
Until October 31, 2022, the 3,300 sq. foot concept store will feature a different thematic experience every month, such as sustainability, electrification, high-street fashion and outdoor adventure. These will include events organised in collaboration with strategic brand partners.
Different lifestyle touchpoints
Presenting different lifestyle touchpoints, both physical and digital, there will be curated exhibitions in collaboration with local and international brands, workshops and seminars. And of course, visitors will get to know more about experience the German brands as well as its latest vehicles, including the latest EQA 250 battery-electric car. The exclusive Mercedes-Benz collection and accessories will also be available for purchase at the store.
This month, sustainability is the theme, spotlighting Cycle & Carriage’s commitment in reducing waste, water, energy and carbon emission as part of their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. In an effort to raise awareness on the importance of taking care of the environment, Cycle & Carriage will collaborate with local brands that share the same commitment to sustainability.
Beyond products and services
“Since the introduction of the company in 1899, Cycle & Carriage has always been resilient to adapting and growing while remaining committed to achieve product and service excellence in the automotive sector, the hallmarks of which Cycle & Carriage still stands for. With neu by Cycle & Carriage, we hope to translate this commitment into experiences and inspirations that Malaysians can see, touch, feel, and even connect digitally,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.
“This store serves as a space for friends and fans of Mercedes-Benz to experience the brand’s lifestyle that goes beyond our cars, to our vision for a sustainable future and living,” added Sagree Sardien, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
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