Starting off 2021 in high gear after a successful year before, BMW Group Malaysia has unveiled four new models in the BMW and MINI brands. The new models solidify its portfolio of offerings to Malaysian buyers while reaffirming the company’s investments in the local automotive landscape.
BMW X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence
Assembled at the BMW facility in Kedah, the new X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence is the largest model in the BMW X range. Its imposing appearance and stature belies versatility and agility, complemented by advanced powertrain and chassis technology.
The bold design of the X7 is fronted by the imposing kidney grille which gives exceptional road presence to the vehicle. This makes the slender BMW Laserlight headlights look even slimmer. The headlights can illuminate up to 600 metres ahead and are supplemented by LED foglights and high-beam assistant.
The X7 variants has large windows and a long, dynamically flowing roofline that hints at a spacious interior. Equally striking are the 21-inch light alloy wheels in Y-spoke style 753 Bicolour with run-flat tyres as standard. The variant also features a fully-electric tailgate in the rear with the Comfort Access feature.
Under the large bonnet panel is the familiar inline 6-cylinder petrol engine which has an output of340 bhp/450 Nm. This is enough to take the large SUV – sorry, BMW terms their SUVs as SAVs (Sport Activity Vehicles – from standing still to 100 km/h within a claimed 6.1 seconds. And with all the advanced engine technologies, the fuel consumption of the vehicle, which weighs around 2,300 kgs, can still be as good as 10.5 kms/litre.
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Power is distributed to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and BMW’s xDrive system. The sophisticated chassis design has a two-axle air suspension which, along with Dynamic Stability Control, enhances handling and stability on the road.
As with the imported variant, the locally assembled variant X7 comes with Executive Drive Pro that includes active roll stabilisation. Ride comfort is further enhanced by the intelligent Dynamic Damper Control system which processes data from the navigation system and front camera.
The interior features opulent ‘Crafted Clarity’ handmade diamond-cut trim element and a range of standard equipment including a sport leather steering wheel and electrically adjustable comfort seats with active seat ventilation in front. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 is interfaced with the fully digital, user-configurable 12.3-inch instrument cluster and an equally large central touchscreen Control Display.
A Head-Up Display is also standard, projecting important running information on the windscreen. Together with the voice-controlled BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and BMW Gesture Control, the driver will not have to take the hands off the steering wheel so much, improving safety.
The X7 is offered with a choice of 5 exterior finishes and selected interior colour combinations. The price is not announced yet, but customers can register their interest at authorised dealerships or BMW Shop Online at shop.bmw.com.my/.
BMW 430i Coupe M Sport
The signature kidney grille of the BMW 4-Series Coupe has generated controversial debate. Its designers explain that it is a homage to historic icons in BMW’s history (such as the BMW 328), reinterpreting the iconic form and embodying it into a sporty, contemporary coupe form.
By virtue of its purist design language, the 430i Coupe M Sport utilises techniques in proportions and minimal number of lines to accentuate its athletic stature, combining it with the aerodynamics and sporting elegance. It has the longest coupe doors to be found on any BMW, creating an overall elongated and dynamic impression.
Compared to its predecessor, the dimensions are slightly larger with 130 mm more length, 27 mm more width and 6 mm added to the height, while the wheelbase has been extended by 41 mm.
Standard equipment includes 19-inch M light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style 797 M Bicolour with mixed tyres and runflat tyres, and M Sport brakes with blue-painted brake calipers and ‘M’ designation. Under the rear end are exhaust tailpipes finished in high-gloss chrome.
All 430i Coupe M Sports sold in Malaysia come with a M Aerodynamics Package already installed at the factory. They are also fitted with BMW Laserlights with High-beam Assistant, LED foglights, and the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line.
With 258 bhp/400 Nm on tap, the TwinTurbo 4-cylinder petrol engine will take the 430i past the 100 km/h mark in a claimed 5.8 seconds, after which continued acceleration will get it up to a terminal velocity of 250 km/h. The upgraded 8-speed Steptronic Sport Transmission is said to have improved efficiency which can return a fuel consumption figure of 15.2 kms/litre. But that would be if the driver is not enjoying the full performance of the car – which may be hard to resist!
For exploring the high limits of handling, there are advanced control systems such as ARB technology (actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation), which enables significantly faster and more sensitive wheel slip control. Further enhancing the sporty driving dynamics are the M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes and Variable Sport Steering.
The cockpit is designed with the sporty driver in mind, as BMWs have always been. A high centre console separates the zones for the driver and front passenger. Seamless integration of the instrument cluster and Control Display forms a large workspace, displaying extensive information but in an easily accessible manner. Visually enhancing the interior ambience are the welcome light carpet and ambient light with 11 predefined lighting designs.
The rear seats provide passengers with a sporty seating experience of a coupe, while still providing ample headspace. A 40/20/40-split for the rear backrests allows the 440-litre luggage compartment to be varied in length to carry more or longer items.
The 430i Coupe M Sport has a choice of four exterior colours and the leather Vernasca upholstery with black decor stitching comes in Black, Tacora Red or Cognac. Authorised BMW dealers nationwide have the car on display, and you can also make a booking via BMW Shop Online for RM1,000.
New MINI Countryman variants
The original Mini cars were assembled in Malaysia from the 1960s until 1982. In 2018, locally assembled versions of the modern MINI began rolling off the line at the plant in Kedah and the range has continued to expand. To start off 2021 are the new Cooper S Countryman and Cooper SE Countryman.
The Countryman, measuring over 4 metres, is the biggest and the most versatile member of the MINI family. It offers significant optimisation in terms of space, versatility, functionality and ride comfort, and includes a plug-in hybrid drive variant.
Both the new Cooper S Countryman and Cooper SE Countryman now feature the MINI ALL4 Exterior Optic. The differentiated front and rear bumpers with decorative elements and sump guard in aluminium matt provide a rugged look. They also come with auto LED headlights with cornering lights, bonnet stripes, roof rails and side sills.
The Union Jack Rear Light now represents an abstract interpretation of the Union Jack, with a more block-designed triangular surface, resulting in stronger lighting. A special detail is the dark tinted cover which lends a distinguishing mark to the lighting units.
Run-flat tyres are standard rubber for the Cooper S Countryman which is fitted with 19-inch MINI Turnstile Spoke. The Cooper SE Countryman also has similar tyres but have different 19-inch wheels.
Inside, both variants feature the MINI Yours Illuminated cockpit in Shaded Silver, combining the illuminated cockpit bezel in Shaded Silver with the Dark Silver door bezels and Hazy Grey. The interior ambience is enhanced with a Satellite Grey Headliner and Leather Cross Punch in Carbon Black. The steering wheel is wrapped with MINI Yours Walknappa leather Steering and a signature Union Jack insignia is also featured at the bottom of the steering wheel.
For the first time, the Countryman has a 5-inch digital instrument cluster. But drivers can look down less at the instruments as there is a Head Up Display which shows them vital operating information on the windscreen ahead of them.
The updated 8.8-inch touchscreen display with navigation has a refined surface look, with the audio control panel and switchgear seamlessly integrated into the control unit. In-car entertainment comes from a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system.
A 2-litre TwinPower Turbo engine powers the Cooper S Countryman, its 192 bhp/280 Nm giving a 0 to 100 km/h capability claimed to be 7.5 seconds with a 7-Speed Dual Clutch Sports Automatic Transmission. As for the Cooper SE Countryman, a 1.5-litre TwinPower Turbo engine with an electric motor (pictured above) provide a combined output 224 bhp/385 Nm of torque. This hybrid powertrain can rocket the car to 100 km/h in a claimed 6.8 seconds and on to a top speed said to be 194 km/h.
The Cooper SE Countryman, which comes with all-wheel drive, has the latest eDrive technology which includes a high-voltage lithium battery pack. Recharging the battery pack takes from 3.25 hours to 5 hours, depending on the type of power supply and outlet available. A fully charged battery pack can give a pure electric range of up to 48 kms.
Owners can access the eDrive Services on their MINI Connected App which provides information such as current battery status, electric range, charge timer, personal efficiency status data, the nearest charging station and pre-conditioning.
Authorised MINI dealerships nationwide now have the new Countryman variants which come with a choice of 6 colours including, for the first-time, Sage Green – a captivating hue inspired by nature. The MINI Online Shop at www.mini.my/minionlineshop has more information and also accepts bookings.
BMW Group Malaysia was the leader in the premium automotive segment in 2020
Peugeot, now part of the Stellantis Group, has made another update and chance to its logo and brand identity. This is the 11th time since the 1850s (although the original company was founded in 1810) and has been developed around the concept of ‘time’ and living in the moment.
The new Peugeot logo features an all-new take on the iconic Peugeot lion, with a roaring lion’s head inside a new Peugeot coat of arms. This coat of arms opens the way to a brand ecosystem that is not limited to its visual identity alone. It carries within it a deeper change. A shift in stance; a new state of mind; a new lifestyle. The recreated emblem acknowledges Peugeot’s evolution as a brand, with its innovative and successful model line-up.
Created by the Peugeot Design Lab and featuring a roaring lion’s head inside a coat of arms, the new design also uses visual language to reflect Peugeot’s electrification strategy which will offer pioneering new technologies. At the same time, the new logo embodies what Peugeot meant yesterday, what Peugeot means today, and what the brand will mean tomorrow.
Lasting and timeless
Designed to be lasting, the new logo also showcases Peugeot as a timeless brand, celebrating its history of over 200 years, while also looking to the future, towards new technologies and innovations provided by the new Stellantis partnership.
The new look will be accompanied by an international campaign and new-look website, as well as a new lifestyle collection of clothing and accessories later this year. It will be progressively used in vehicle models, starting with the all-new Peugeot 308 which will have its world premiere later this year.
New brand campaign
The new identity will be visible in every part of the organisation, from retailers and associated products to signage and communications, along with the carmaker’s first brand campaign in 10 years. The campaign, called ‘THE LIONS OF OUR TIME’, will feature both new and existing Peugeot customers. It aims to celebrate ‘Today’s Lions’ of all ages and cultures and highlight the value of quality time in our lives.
‘Today’s Lions’, of all ages, culture and backgrounds are no longer so much in search of power or money, but more in a quest for quality time. Through ‘THE LIONS OF OUR TIME’ campaign, Peugeot aims to empower the customers to own their most valuable asset: their time. The brand aims at turning time into quality time, an enriching experience.
The new lifestyle collection will be simple, attractive and with quality. This will feature everything from clothing and leather goods to electronic accessories and stationery. The new collection will echo Peugeot’s attention to detail and design when it launches later in the year.
Ferrari will join the Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) class from 2023. This is a new class which has attracted the interest of manufacturers and it will be the top class of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Companies that have announced vehicle development programmes include Porsche, Peugeot, Audi, and Toyota – all veterans of the WEC with championship victories at different periods in time.
Following a period of study and analysis, Ferrari confirmed its participation and has started a development programme for an all-new LMH car. It is known that there is already a design and simulations have been run in recent weeks.
The time-frame for building running prototypes has not been mentioned, nor the name of the car and the drivers who will make up the official crews.
While Ferraris are regularly seen racing at Le Mans, it has been almost 50 years since the factory’s last official participation in the premier class of the World Sports Car Championship. It has a respectable record in closed-wheel competition with 24 world titles (most recently in 2017) and 36 victories in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“In over 70 years of racing, on tracks all over the world, we led our closed-wheel cars to victory by exploring cutting-edge technological solutions: innovations that arise from the track and make every road car produced in Maranello extraordinary. With the new Le Mans Hypercar programme, Ferrari once again asserts its sporting commitment and determination to be a protagonist in the major global motorsport events,” said Ferrari President, John Elkann.
Overview of the Le Mans Hypercar class
The LMH ruleset represents a major shift in philosophy compared with the LMP1 class it is replacing. It allows for a greater variety both in terms of technical approaches as well as the aesthetics of the cars, at the same time ensuring sporting equality and preventing cost escalation through the concept of ‘performance windows’.
Technical Regulations are focused on controlling performance outcome, instead of setting design or geometrical restrictions, allowing manufacturers to choose cost-effective solutions as significant expenditures will not bring performance gains.
The autonomy also allows them not only to replicate brand identity and genuine architecture, maintaining the spirit of the brand and remaining relevant to their road car philosophy, but also to express true potential in terms of creativity and innovation. Less rigid aerodynamic constraints established for the cars give them the option to incorporate styling elements to the design.
Similarly to the LMP1 class, both hybrid or non-hybrid power units with transmission to either rear or both axles are allowed.
As avoiding cost escalation is one of the key targets behind the LMH concept, several other cost-saving measures have been undertaken. With the 2021 season being the first one in the LMH homologation cycle, testing is supervised. The use of expensive materials and technology is greatly limited. The minimum weight for gearbox is set at 75 kgs, with the use of magnesium or aluminium casing and bellhousing mandatory.
The suspension is also simplified, with a double-wishbone design compulsory and aids such as active systems and mass dampers forbidden. There is also a single aero kit permitted, without the distinction for Le Mans and the other races.
In order to avoid development costs, the tyres are exclusively supplied by Michelin with different dimensions dedicated to rear and 4-wheel-drive cars. Furthermore, lower power output results in lower power unit development costs.
“Le Mans Hypercar should please both manufactures and fans, resulting in spectacular cars and high level of competition. We’ll see greater variety across the competitors while the more cost-effective regulatory approach is something much needed in the current economic climate,” said Richard Mille, FIA Endurance Commission President.
Peugeot Hybrid4 500KW to power Peugeot hypercar for endurance racing in 2022
Just two years after crossing the 900,000th vehicle milestone, Honda Malaysia has now crossed the 1 million mark. To celebrate this significant milestone, the company has prepared Special Edition models to be given away in the ‘1 Million Dreams’ campaign’.
“We wish to express our sincere gratitude to members of the media for their ongoing support and honest reviews of Honda products as well as our dealer partners for their strong commitment to uphold the Honda brand. The ‘1 Million Dreams Campaign’ is an initiative for us to say ‘thank you’ to all our customers as it is their strong support that has enabled us to come a long way and experience this inspiring journey. As our heartfelt appreciation, we are giving away seven Special Edition models of the Jazz, All-New City, BR-V, HR-V, Civic, New CR-V and Accord,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director and CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.
“We wish to express our sincere gratitude to members of the media for their ongoing support and honest reviews of Honda products as well as our dealer partners for their strong commitment to uphold the Honda brand. We would also like to thank the Malaysian government for their continuous support throughout the years as well as introducing the Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA) during the pandemic. Tis provides substantial support to the automotive industry,” he said.
Unique feature for Special Editions
The seven Special Edition models to be given have been specially designed with unique features, making them one-of-a-kind models in Malaysia. The exterior has a Dual Tone, with Front Fascia having Red Highlights; Sporty Red Line Side Mirrors, Black Painted Alloy Wheels with Red Highlights as well as 1 Million Dreams Signature Emblem to signify them as Special Edition models.
Inside each of the models, there are ‘1 Million Dreams’ Embossed Leather Headrests for both driver and front passenger seats as well as a Leather Steering Wheel with Red Stitching and Centre Mark. The owner of each unit will receive a Special Edition Leather Key Pouch.
The campaign runs from February 26 to March 24, 2021 and during that period, there will also be a variety of exciting activities in store. Honda Malaysia’s President & COO, Sarly Adle Sarkum, said the activities will be at all showrooms nationwide and include a ‘1 Million Dreams’ exhibition. “We are also delighted to have special collaborations with our brand partners CUCKOO, Shopee and Watsons,” he said.
“In addition, we want to express our appreciation to all the frontliners for their hard work and dedication. Hence, we have allocated one of the seven Special Edition cars specially for them to win through this campaign. On top of the seven Special Edition cars, we have prizes worth 1 Million Shopee coins to be given out to 150 lucky winners on a weekly basis; throughout the campaign, we will also have prizes worth 5 Million Shopee coins,” he added.
Various ways to enter and win
Malaysians can stand a chance to win these seven Special Edition models just by completing a few easy steps to participate in the contest. Participants can take part in any of the 6 activities prepared by Honda Malaysia to earn as many entries as they can and submit the entries at authorised Honda dealers or via Honda Malaysia’s official website.
Participants can collect the entries by downloading and signing up for the HondaTouch application, playing the ‘1 Million Dreams’ Quiz Game at Honda Malaysia’s official website, test driving a new Honda vehicle, booking a new Honda vehicle, servicing or repairing a Honda vehicle, or registering a new Honda vehicle within the campaign period.
The more entries collected, the higher the chance of winning the Special Edition cars. The lucky winners of the Special Edition cars will be announced at the Grand Finale which is scheduled for the end of March 2021.
Partners collaborate with Honda Malaysia
”Sharing our passion as a Healthy Home Creator to constantly bring value and enhancing the lives of all Malaysians, we are proud to be partnering with Honda Malaysia through their ‘1 Million Dreams Campaign’. Through this collaboration, we will be offering our customers and fans who purchase any of our selected Beyond Standards CUCKOO, or our newly launched and astoundingly comfortable A-Series Mattresses in March, a chance to drive home a Honda car. We welcome all our CUCKOO customers and fans to grab this opportunity to complete their dream homes with us,” said CUCKOO International Founder & CEO, Hoe Kian Choon.
Shopee’s Regional Managing Director, Ian Ho said Shopee will be giving away a special edition Honda HR-V on Shopee and be part of making a dream come true for that one lucky user. “We are honoured to be partnering Honda Malaysia in this celebration of having sold one million units of their vehicles here in Malaysia. Apart from Honda Malaysia showing its appreciation to its customers for their trust in the brand, this partnership speaks volumes of Honda’s digitalisation journey whilst giving us the chance to help it gain further success through e-commerce. Here’s to many more milestones to come and we look forward to driving meaningful experiences with Honda Malaysia!” Mr. Ho said.
Watsons Malaysia has put together an exclusive contest for its loyalty members to stand a chance of winning the Special Edition BR-V. Watsons members can participate in the contest by spending more than RM50 in a single receipt at any Watsons store or online.
“Congratulations to Honda Malaysia for the remarkable achievement! We are glad to be part of the ‘1 Million Dreams Campaign’ to commemorate this milestone with Honda Malaysia. I encourage all our members to grab this opportunity to join this contest!” said Caryn Loh, Managing Director of Watsons Malaysia.
Speeding forward in digitalisation
”This year, Honda Malaysia is set to excite the Malaysian market,” said Mr. Ishiyama. “In the era of digitalisation where its development and uptake are further accelerated by the new normal, Honda Malaysia strives to provide a comprehensive digital platform for its customers by enhancing its HondaTouch application and digital pre-booking platform.”
For more information on the ‘1 Million Dreams Campaign’, visit the campaign’s website at honda.com.my/1milliondreams/entry or any of the 102 authorised Honda dealerships nationwide. Alternatively, you can call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or visit www.honda.com.my.
Honda stays at No.1 position in Non-National segment for 6th year
The locally-assembled Volvo XC40 range in Malaysia now has a second variant – the XC40 Recharge T5. The ‘Recharge’ indicates it is a Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), so it extends the already varied PHEV range available from Volvo Car Malaysia.
The second model in the XC40 range is priced at RM241,997.04 for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia (excluding insurance and with full sales tax exemption until the end of June). This is RM10,346 more than the XC40 T5 R-Design.
1.5-litre petrol engine + electric motor
Unlike the XC40 T5 AWD R-Design with a 2-litre turbocharged engine, the XC40 Recharge T5 has a hybrid powertrain which is composed of a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine that works together with an 82 ps/160 Nm electric motor. The total system output is 262 ps/425 Nm, which flows to the front wheels only through a 7-speed dual-clutch (wet type) transmission.
Performance-wise, the hybrid powertrain gives a zippy feel as maximum torque kicks the moment the car moves off and the level remains the same to 3,000 rpm. But if run against the T5 with just the petrol engine, the 0 to 100 km/h time is shown to be slower – 7.3 seconds versus 6.4 seconds. Nevertheless, both cars have the same top speed of 180 km/h and that is a maximum speed set by Volvo as a measure for safer motoring. You may grumble but that maximum speed is 70 km/h over the highest speed limit in Malaysia anyway.
0% to 100% in 3 hours
As PHEV, it’s possible to recharge the 10.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack from an external source. This can be a household power supply – which will take up to 5 hours to fully recharge the battery pack – or a charging station which can bring the time to around 3 hours. Of course, that assumes a fully drained empty battery pack and in practice, it is likely that an owner would be ‘topping up’ the capacity the same way as with a fuel tank.
45 kms on electricity alone
While driving, the petrol engine will be used and consume fuel but because the electric motor also provides part of the propulsion, fuel consumption will be reduced and can be as economical as 45.5 kms a litre. If conditions permit, it is possible to go up to 45 kms on just electricity alone which is not only good for your wallet but also the environment. And with the fuel tank having a volume of 49 litres, the potential range with a full tank is over 2,000 kms so refuelling will probably be much less frequent.
Built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, the XC40 Recharge T5 has the same looks as the T5 AWD with the black roof contrasting with the 5 colour choices (although it is less evident with the Black Stone finish). The black-themed R-Design package is also fitted, probably to simplify assembly by having the same accessories and equipment.
Scandinavian with R-Design interior as well
The interior has the typical Scandinavian ambience that every Volvo today possesses. It’s in the colours , textures and minimalism that is evident around the cabin. Blended into this is underlying high-tech with the fully digital-graphic instrument panel, Intelligent Driver Information System and SENSUS, which is a fully integrated, connected navigation system. Information is shown on a 9-inch colour touchscreen display.
The R-Design package is not just to make the exterior sportier but is also applied within with sporty elements in the trim and items like the shifter and pedals. Also notable is the effort to keep the environment clean, even more important in these times. Volvo’s ventilation system has been upgraded to clean the air more effectively and ensure air quality is premium, just like the car.
Leadership in safety, as always
Being a Volvo, the XC40 comes with a very extensive list of safety systems and features, categorised under two areas of the Intellisafe package – active and passive. The active systems include City Safety which helps the driver avoid accidents with automatic emergency braking if necessary. The camera and radar systems have been improved further to be able to detect not just pedestrians but also cyclists and large animals.
One of the things which Volvo engineers worked hard to prevent was the roll-over and since the first XC90 – which was the carmaker’s first SUV – a roll-over protection system has been present to prevent such situations due to the tallness of the vehicle.
For passive protection – which is prevent or reduce injuries in an accident – the XC40 has a strong structure with the Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) that has been in use since the days of the 850 in the early 1990s. This includes a Dual-Chamber SIPSBag which deploys at the sides of the seats for additional protection.
“We are excited that we can finally offer one of our most successful SUVs as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and thus completing our full line-up of PHEVs. The launch of the XC40 Recharge T5 is a sign of greener times ahead as we continue to strive towards a more sustainable future and do our part to not only reduce our carbon footprint, but also help our customers reduce theirs as well,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia.
Special deal for online booking
Customers who book online will receive a complimentary Bowers & Wilkins PX5 wireless headphone set worth RM2,800. This offer is limited to the first 50 customers who book online and must take delivery of the car before May 31, 2021 (terms and conditions apply).
The Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN Team, partnered with Sauber, has unveiled their new racing cars for the 2021 Formula 1 championship. The event, broadcast live around the world, was held at the Grand Theatre in Warsaw, Poland. It was done without an audience in accordance with measure necessary to combat COVID-19.
Presenting the C41 racing cars were drivers Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi along with substitute driver Robert Kubica. The cars are a further development of the C39 which the team used in the 2020 season.
Many components from C39
The distinctive colouring of the C41 was created in the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile. The design is dominated by red and white, which are the traditional colours of the brand. Due to the restrictions imposed by the Formula 1 regulations, the C41 retains many of the components of its predecessor. However, there are improvements in some areas, such as the optimized nose section and the engine provided by Ferrari is also a new development.
Testing still crucial
“ The C41 is the result of a very unusual situation in Formula 1. The regulations didn’t allow us to develop a completely new car for 2021. That means we know the 2021 car a lot better than usual when we get to the first test. Even so, it will be crucial to make the most of the three days of testing ahead. We have to check that the reality corresponds to the simulations and also get to know the new tyres,” said Jan Monchaux, Technical Director of Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN.
On the body of the C41, the Alfa Romeo logo is flanked by two traditional symbols: the Quadrifoglio, the 4-leaf clover that has accompanied Alfa Romeo’s racing activities since 1924, and the symbol of Autodelta, the brand’s legendary racing team.
Transfer of technology
The partnership between Alfa Romeo and the Sauber Group goes beyond racing. Applicable technologies developed by the partnership will be transferred to production Alfa Romeo models. An example which has already taken place is the Giulia GTA project. This uses the know-how from the engineering and aerodynamics departments of Sauber AG. For the Giulia GTA and Giulia GTAm, Sauber Engineering produces a number of the carbonfibre components for the body.
“The presentation of a new car is always an emotional moment, the culmination of months of efforts by everyone in the factory and the beginning of a new adventure. I think the team’s philosophy remains the same: we have to do a better job tomorrow than we do today,” said Frederic Vasseur, Team Director of Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN and CEO of Sauber Motorsport AG.
Opening F1 round in Australia postponed, Chinese GP date to be rescheduled
Perodua will launch its all-new SUV a week from today, on March 3. Unlike all is other launches, this one will not be done in a public setting with lots of people. Due to the ongoing restrictions of the Movement Control Order (MCO), the Malaysian carmaker will launch the new model online, just as many other companies have done. It is very conscious of its responsibility to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus and even today’s media preview was conducted with very strict conditions.
While we still cannot show any pictures of the actual vehicle, we have additional information which can give you a better idea, and which may even persuade you to quickly place a booking for the D55L, as it is being referred to, although it is already known that the model will be called the Ativa.
Perodua is presenting the Ativa as its most advanced model to date, and it certainly does seem that way where technology and safety are concerned, with the typical excellent value-for-money proposition that the brand has always given customers. The actual prices are still not released but will be between RM62,500 and RM73,400 (excluding insurance), with a choice of three variants – X, H and AV.
So here’s a quick overview of what to expect in the new Ativa. Please note that all images are of the Daihatsu Rocky or Toyota Raize, and the Perodua Ativa will have differences in some areas as well as trim colours and materials.
DNGA
We already know that the Ativa is adapted from the Daihatsu Rocky/Toyota Raize models sold in Japan (which went on sale at the end of 2019). This means that the Ativa will also have the newly developed Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that encompasses not just the platform but also many other structural aspects of the vehicle.
It is unlikely that Perodua will alter it to be Perodua New Global Architecture; after all, even Toyota makes reference to DNGA for its model. The fact that Perodua is getting DNGA reflects the closer cooperation that exists between the carmaker and its technical partner and shareholder, Daihatsu Motor. DNGA is fairly new technology and in the past, Perodua didn’t have access to the very latest technologies. But then again, it was still a ‘student’, diligently learning to be a carmaker, and it has graduated and can now be provided with more advanced products.
DNGA, like TNGA – Toyota’s New Global Architecture – used for many of Daihatsu’s latest models, provides flexibility for the designers and engineers to optimize designs for different types of compact vehicles. It starts with a highly rigid platform for enhanced handling, stability and comfort.
The optimized structure is constructed with reinforced underfloor tunnel parts and crossmembers. Besides resin for certain panels, high tensile steel is used in many areas to save weight without losing strength. Comprehensive development of the powertrain and suspension provide optimum balance and efficient space utilisation of the enlarged footprint.
Turbocharged engine with CVT
Compact cars with small engines have been Daihatsu’s speciality which it has shared with Perodua. In fact, back in the 1970s, Daihatsu came out with a 1-litre 3-cylinder engine in its Charade which was innovative. Now, for the Ativa, the 1-litre 1KR-VET 3-cylinder engine is being used with a turbocharger, which is in keeping with global downsizing trends. And in case you are not aware, the annual roadtax is just RM20.
This is Perodua’s first turbocharged engine and the output figures revealed are 98 ps/140 Nm, which is plenty for a vehicle that won’t be too heavy. So expect zippy performance – which you don’t always get with a SUV.
The engine will be coupled to a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), also a first for Perodua. CVTs help to achieve better fuel economy. The one for the Ativa – called a Direct-Shift CVT – is a fairly new development with reduced mechanical loss, a wider gear range, and improved shift tracking.
There are 7 virtual ratios which will be selected smoothly and fuel consumption is claimed to be 18.9 kms/litre with the higher transmission efficiency. The good fuel efficiency means the fuel tank can be smaller and its volume is 36 litres.
How big?
We don’t have the dimensions of the Ativa but those of the Daihatsu Rocky should be close enough. The overall length of 3995 mm means it is 440 mm shorter than the Aruz, and it is also shorter than the popular Honda HR-V. The wheelbase is 2525 mm, also less than the Aruz. The 1695 mm overall width is the same as the Aruz. With 17-inch wheels, the overall height should be around 1620 mm or 85 mm lower than the Aruz.
The boot space will be variable, of course, with 369 litres at least. The Aruz would offer more but it depends on whether the third row is used, in which case it would be less.
Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 3.0
Within just a few years, the ASA system has gone from first generation to third generation, which will be offered with the top variant of the Ativa. All variants, however, get the basic ASA suite with Pre-Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking (with detection of bicycles and motorcycles), Departure Alert (to let the driver know when the car ahead has moved off), Pedal Misoperation Control (preventing accident application of excessive power when starting off), and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.
The top variant has ASA 3.0 which includes additional driver assistance systems that complement the ASA system. The Lane Departure Warning will include a Lane Keep Control function, while a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) will alert the driver if there is another vehicle in the blind spot behind. Reversing out of a parking bay will also be safer with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which detects vehicles coming from either side.
Finally, there’s Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) which adjust the cruising speed to maintain a safe gap. This gives the Ativa a semi-autonomous capability as the driver need not constantly monitor the distance and adjust the speed manually (although attention is still needed. It will certainly help to reduce fatigue on long journeys along the highway.
Higher safety standards
All variants will have 6 airbags, the additional ones (besides the two at the front) covering the side windows when there is an impact from the side. The side curtain airbags can also help to prevent ejection of occupants during violent accidents.
While it is nice to have all-wheel drive for better stability and grip, Vehicle Stability Control (available in all variants) can also provide the same thing in most situations. It doesn’t mean you can go faster around corners but it will prove valuable if there is a skid which can cause a dangerous spin as the system will react with corrective measures.
The Ativa also comes with intelligent LED headlamp systems. For the lowest-priced variant, there is an Auto High Beam function which will automatically switch to low beam if an oncoming vehicle is detected. The driver doesn’t have to do anything and can give full attention to looking ahead.
For the middle and top variable, there are adaptive headlamps and this is rare even in more expensive cars. We don’t know how Perodua has been able to offer this so soon as such advanced technology usually takes a while to trickle down. The adaptive headlamps can provide optimised illumination without causing glare. The lighting areas are intelligently spread (as shown in the graphic above) so that they will not shine into the eyes of an oncoming driver, even while on high beam.
With the strong structure and such an extensive list of standard safety equipment, we would not be surprised if the Ativa easily scores the maximum of 5 stars in ASEAN NCAP’s evaluations.
“True to our aim to continually bring more and more advanced technology to the masses, the Perodua D55L AV is Malaysia’s most affordable Level 2 Autonomous vehicle, bringing state-of-the-art safety and convenience to a wider audience,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.
“This is the first model under the Perodua Smart Build blueprint, spearheading breakthroughs for Perodua in style, safety, technology, equipment levels and value,” he added.
If you want to be among the first to own an Ativa, you can make a booking at any Perodua showroom nationwide. The locations can be found at www.perodua.com.my.
With the original opening round in Chile having to be postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions in the UK making it difficult for teams to travel on time to South America, the season-opener for Season 7 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will be in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. The venue was originally scheduled for later in the year and will have two races, both run at night. This will be the first time the all-electric single seater series is being run after dark.
The first of the two night races will be on February 26 – just 4 days away – and among the teams getting ready for this new season is Jaguar Racing. The British team has much experience in Formula E, having participated in 5 seasons. This year sees one of the strongest pairings on the grid with Sam Bird and Mitch Evans using the new Jaguar I-TYPE 5 racing car. Since the last race in August 2020, development of the new car has centred around an all-new in-house powertrain, suspension and state-of-the-art invertor which uses 24-carat gold.
To control costs the carbonfibre chassis and battery are common components and the same for all 12 teams competing. This allows the focus to be on developing electric vehicle powertrains which are efficient and lightweight, the technology and solutions eventually being transferred to production Jaguar Land Rover models with electrified powertrains.
“The team have worked harder than ever to create the most efficient, state-of-the-art race car and we will be pushing for points, podiums and wins,” said James Barclay, Jaguar Racing Team Director. “We have spent months developing the Jaguar I-TYPE 5 and we are now looking forward to take to the track in Diriyah for the double-header season opener and first ever Formula E night races.”
The engineers have focussed on efficiency gains, reduced weight and lowered the centre of gravity of the powertrain. New suspension will provide greater adjustment from track to track and a more efficient invertor will improve switching speeds and performance.
Jaguar Racing will also debut the use of new sustainable materials called TYPEFIBRE, which the car’s new prototype seat is made from. It will be tested at speed in different temperatures, loads and environments around the world as part of the team’s Race to Innovate mission – sharing the benefits of race technology with road cars and, in turn, Jaguar customers.
During the 3 days of intense pre-season testing at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Spain earlier, the I-TYPE 5 showed it on-track potential over 370 laps. “We learned a lot about the car – the hardware, the software and the systems – and we’ve understood what works well and how we can make the Jaguar I-TYPE 5 go faster. Overall, it was a really useful test,” said Sam Bird.
This is New Zealander Evans’ fifth season with Jaguar Racing while Britain’s Sam Bird, who has won races in every Formula E season, is new to the British team this season. Both drivers have experienced the Saudi Arabian street track – Evans secured points last year and Bird was victorious in the 2019 season-opener in Diriyah, located on the north-western outskirts of the country’s capital city, Riyadh.
The 2021 Formula E season is the first of the series to be granted full world championship status by the FIA in view of its truly global coverage. It will be the third year for the teams to be racing with the futuristic Gen2 race cars.
Hyundai Motor Company today launched the IONIQ 5 as the first model in the Korean brand’s new IONIQ brand which will offer only battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Unlike other models which also have combustion engine variants, the IONIQ 5 and coming models will use Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated BEV architecture called Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). First deliveries in selected markets will begin in coming months.
Hyundai expects this universal platform for its BEV models will make manufacturing simpler and cheaper – for both the carmaker and the customer. It plans to introduce at least 23 BEV models and expects to sell more than a million of them worldwide by 2025.
Using a platform designed from the outset for BEVs means the engineers can maximise the benefits of a BEV without the compromises that a conventional combustion engine model would impose. The interior can be more innovatively designed and planned and more BEV-specific features can be incorporated.
Range of electric powertrains
The IONIQ 5 will be available with a range of power electric (PE) configurations to fit the mobility needs of every customer, with no compromises on performance. Customers can select from two battery pack options – either 58 kWh or 72.6 kWh – and two electric motor layouts. The latter can be either with a rear motor only or with both front and rear motors for all-wheel drive (AWD). Range is said to be ‘outstanding’ with a claimed top speed of 185 km/h.
The AWD option paired with the 72.6-kWh battery produces a system output of 225 kWh and 605 Nm. This can give a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.2 seconds. With the 2-wheel drive set-up and 72.6-kWh battery, the IONIQ 5’s maximum driving range with a full battery pack is said to be up to 480 kms.
IONIQ 5’s E-GMP can support both 400-V and 800-V charging infrastructures. The platform offers 800-V charging capability as standard, along with 400-V charging, without the need for additional components or adapters. The multi-charging system is a world’s first patented technology that operates the motor and inverter to boost 400 V to 800 V for stable charging compatibility.
As for recharging the battery pack, with a 350-kW charger, the time to ‘refuel’ from 10% to 80% is claimed to be 18 minutes. A 5-minute charging time can get up to 100 kms of range.
The IONIQ 5 also has an innovative V2L function which makes it a mobile charger. It can provide electricity for charging large electric devices such as electric bicycles, scooters or camping equipment. The V2L function can supply up to 3.6 kW of power.
Departure from norms
Using the E-GMP, the IONIQ 5’s design represents a departure from past norms, exploring the new design freedom offered by a dedicated BEV platform. Its exterior design is characterized by profile of the Pony, a historically significant model for Hyundai. The 4.6-metre long body sits over a platform with a 3000 mm wheelbase. This extended wheelbase requires a more sophisticated approach to translate this new proportion into a contemporary EV typology.
The front of the car has Hyundai’s first clamshell bonnet that minimizes panel gaps for optimal aerodynamics. The front bumper is defined by an eye-catching V-shape incorporating distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs) that provide a light signature unique to IONIQ 5. The small pixel-like clusters also appear at the rear of the car.
On the sides, auto flush door handles provide clean surface styling and obviously, enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. The front and rear forms of the car merge at its doors, offering another example of Hyundai’s ‘Parametric Dynamics’ design first seen on the latest Tucson and also on the Elantra. The strong C-pillar shape, inspired by the ‘45’ EV concept, gives a commanding presence clearly identifiable from a distance. Aero-optimized wheels further echo the Parametric Pixel design theme and are offered in a super-sized 20-inch diameter, the largest rims ever fitted to a Hyundai EV.
Living Space within
The ‘Living Space’ theme runs throughout the interior, most notably embodied by the Universal Island, a moveable centre console that can slide back as much as 140 mm. This Universal Island, along with the flat floor where the battery pack is stored, allows more freedom of movement inside the cabin.
The front seats are electrically adjustable, with the ability to recline to an optimum angle that offers a weightless feeling for the passenger. The interior designers reduced the thickness of the front seats by 30%, providing more space for those seated behind.
Many of the interior touchpoints — seats, headliner, door trim, floor and armrest — use eco-friendly, sustainably-sourced materials. Examples of such materials are recycled PET bottles, plant-based (bio PET) yarns and natural wool yarns, eco-processed leather with plant-based extracts, and bio paint with plant extracts.
Enhanced digital experience
As would be expected, the IONIQ 5 has advanced technologies for an enhanced digital user experience. The wide, configurable, dual cockpit features a 12-inch, full-touch infotainment screen and hoodless 12- inch digital gauge cluster that can be customized to meet customers’ needs. For the first time in a Hyundai model, there is an Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, essentially turning the windscreen into an informative display screen.
“A new mobility experience for the next generation—this was the mission from the first day we began this project, to look ahead towards the horizon, but stay fundamentally Hyundai,” said SangYup Lee, Senior Vice-President and Head of Hyundai Global Design Centre. “IONIQ 5 is the new definition of timeless, providing a common thread linking our past to the present and future.”
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