♦ Though just 181 units less, November’s Total Industry Volume (TIV) remained above the 56,000-unit level that new vehicle sales have been at since September. Compared to the same month in 2019, the 2020 TIV was 7.4% higher.
♦ However, when compared to the 11-month period in 2019 where the cumulative TIV was 549,439 units, the cumulative volume this year was lower at 454,708 units. Clearly, the MCO shutting down businesses and factories was a great impact on the industry and cannot be recovered from.
♦ The MAA had revised its forecast to 470,000 units earlier in the year and this is just 15,292 units more than the cumulative TIV from January to November. The forecasted TIV should therefore be achieved easily and if December proves to be a better month than all the other months due to promotions and the rush to buy new vehicles before the sales tax exemption ends, the year could end at 500,000 units or slightly more.
♦ Of the 56,489 units registered, 9.4% were commercial vehicles and pick-up trucks.
♦ The output from the plants was 18% higher in November this year, compared to the same month in 2019, although it seems to be slowing down. While the bigger players like Perodua and Proton have many back orders, other companies may have built up sufficient stocks and now want to manage the inventory in preparation of a slowdown in January. Many customers are likely to want their new vehicle this year to take advantage of the tax savings, in contrast to the usual practice of deferring registration to the new year.
Source: Monthly reports of Malaysian Automotive Association
Tonight is a big night for Toyota with Malaysian importer and distributor UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) unveiling three new models as well as announcing future activities which centre around motorsports. The increased motorsports activity has been going on for some time now since the Vios Challenge One-Make series began a few years ago, complemented by UMWT being the first local car company to get into eSports (simulator racing).
Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR), which manages the brand’s global competition activities, also began to develop into a brand of its own, focused towards high performance products like the GR Supra. The motorsports involvement by the brand could be largely attributed to Toyota’s President, Akio Toyoda, who is a racing driver and sees motorsports as a way to build better cars.
Second GR model
Now comes the second GR model – the GR Yaris – which is a ‘Homologation Special‘, meaning its original brief was for a model that could qualify for use in FIA-sanctioned motorsports events. The FIA requires a manufacturer to make no less than 25,000 units of a model and if they want to have a high-performance variant, there must be a minimum of 2,500 units which are really the Homologation Specials.
However, Toyota has decided to develop a high-performance model that can be offered to more customers, so it is building 25,000 Homologation Specials! At the same time, the car is road-legal with all the required safety systems and should the owner want to enter a rally, he or she can do so as well (with the fitment of additional safety equipment for racing purposes).
“The manufacturing process is a first for Toyota, whereby the competition elements and requirements dictated the building and engineering of the GR Yaris. The end product and the results have been phenomenal,” said UMWT’s Deputy Chairman and Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsport Officer, Akio Takeyama. He added that the GR Yaris is made in Japan in the same factory that built the Lexus LFA.
Developed in collaboration with Tommi Makinen
Development of the GR Yaris was carried out by TGR in collaboration with Tommi Makinen Racing, the organization led by the legendary WRC driver who was champion for 4 years in a row (1996 – 1999). His WRC-skilled team of designers and engineers focused on perfecting the aerodynamics, weight distribution and weight optimization of the car to achieve the best performance and drivability.
Unique model line
The GR Yaris is different from the latest Yaris hatchback assembled and sold in the Malaysian market. It is a unique model rather than a variant and has a 3-door hatchback bodystyle which provides increased area for the inclusion of aerodynamic parts. Its overall length is 3995 mm with the wheelbase at 2560 mm.
As with most of the latest Toyota models, it sits on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform which is highly variable. For the GR Yaris, the variability was taken further as half the platform is the GA-B which is mated to the GA-C platform that is used for the Corolla and C-HR.
The reason for this hybrid architecture is to allow the rear suspension to use the more sophisticated double wishbone layout of the GA-C Platform (instead of the torsion beam rear suspension of the GA-B platform). The special platform also accommodates all-wheel drive and achieves high levels of agility and stability.
Aerodynamically optimised, lowered weight
For competition cars, aerodynamics and weight reduction are crucial factors which influence performance. These were areas the TGR team gave much attention to and as mentioned earlier, instead of just making 2,500 units with superior aerodynamics and the lowest possible weight (1,280 kgs), Toyota is offering the same benefits in all 25,000 units. This can save costs for those who want to use the car for competition as they don’t have to change to lighter parts.
Aluminium is used in many areas, including the bonnet, and the roof is made of C-SMC, a carbonfibre material which saves 3.5 kgs compared to a steel roof. Besides aluminium, another lightweight material used is TSOP (Toyota Super Olefin Polymer), for the rear bumper which reduces weight by 38 kgs. By lightening the upper part of the body, it also helps lower the car’s centre of gravity (by 2.5 mm),
Even though they run over rough ground, rallycars travel very fast so aerodynamic performance is just as important as on the racing circuit. Reducing wind resistance is one thing but increasing stability is also important – even when going sideways! Various aerodynamic aids have been installed on the optimized shape of the car, and as with many modern cars, the underside has been made as smooth as possible to minimize turbulence and lift.
The roofline is low to increase the amount of wind hitting the deep, high-mounted rear spoiler, maximizing the downforce generated. The roof and rear pillars are also tapered to promote better stability at high speeds. Shaping the rear diffuser (the aero step) to fold into the bumper unit also helps in managing airflow to reduce turbulence as it leaves the car.
High performance suspension
Drawing on experience developing the WRC cars, the engineers had a lot of data to use for suspension geometry and settings to maximize tyre grip. The front MacPherson strut suspension is both lightweight and highly rigid as is the specially developed trailing double wishbone suspension at the rear.
With the high speeds that the GR Yaris is capable of, the braking system has been engineered to provide strong stopping power. At the front are 356 mm ventilated discs with 4-pot, lightweight aluminium calipers (in red), while the rear brakes have 297 mm ventilated discs with 2-pot aluminium calipers.
Incidentally, the brakes fitted to the GR Yaris are comparable in size to those used on the GR Supra and in fact, the front discs are larger in diameter. And there is also a mechanical hand-operated parking brake for additional cornering control in rally driving.
Most powerful production 3-cylinder engine
The GR Yaris is powered by an all-new 1.6-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine (G16E-GTS) producing 261 bhp at 6,500 rpm and 360 Nm of torque between 3,000 and 4,600 rpm. This makes it the world’s most powerful 3-cylinder engine and the lightest and smallest 1.6-litre turbo unit currently in production. The engine conforms to WRC 2 regulations and its 3-cylinder configuration was preferred by Toyota engineers due to light weight and compact size, making it simple to install.
It goes without saying that a car intended for competition use would come with a manual transmission and the GR Yaris is available only with a 6-speed manual transmission with i-MT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) function detects the driver’s shifting operation (disengaging the clutch and shifting) and matches the engine speed after shifting (constant speed shifting).
Rallying experience also dictated that the gearshift lever should be positioned higher and set closer to the steering wheel for quicker shifting. The shift stroke is also shortened and lightened for a more engaging feel.
New 4-wheel drive system
20 years ago, Toyota developed its own Sports 4WD system which was used in the Celica GT-4, one of its successful WRC cars. Lessons learnt in the past plus new technologies developed for today’s Yaris WRC rallycar have gone into the new GR-Four 4-wheel drive system fitted to the GR Yaris.
This advanced system has an aluminium central transfer case and distributes power between the front and rear axles using a high-response coupling with an electronically controlled multi-plate type clutch managing the split power between the front and rear wheels. Besides intelligent distribution of power in Normal mode when the torque is split 60:40 front to rear, the driver can also select a Sport mode which is 30:70 and Track mode which is 50:50.
Comfortable cabin for 4 persons
While weight-reduction was a priority, the cabin of the GR Yaris is not barren or uncomfortable (as racing cars often are because unnecessary items have been removed). It has the same comfortable feel as a Yaris hatchback but with a much sportier image. There is still weight-saving but it’s not visible, eg in the structure of the sports seats.
The overall interior theme is in black with smoke silver trim details. The front and rear seats are upholstered in black leather with red stitching for those at the front. There is also a GR 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and drilled aluminium sports pedals with wider dimensions. The pedal position, pad angle and pressing angle have also been calculated in line with the driver’s hip point to gain the best possible controllability.
Instrumentation in the GR Yaris consists of an analogue meter with white calibrations and red pointers, and a 4.2-inch TFT colour Multi-Information Display (MID). The MID shows various operating information and includes an all-wheel drive indicator showing torque distribution. There’s also a turbo pressure monitor and gearshift indicator, besides the 4WD Mode indicator. The driver can also refer to the standard Head-up display (HUD) projected on the windscreen.
For those who use the GR Yaris for highway cruising, there is also an infotainment system and all the convenience features that are found in other Toyota models – even dual-zone air-conditioning. To provide a more sporty feel, the engine sound transmitted into the cabin is enhanced in accordance with the engine speed.
Toyota Safety Sense
The GR Yaris comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) driver assistance systems consisting of a Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Automatic High Beam (AHB). The systems use data from a camera and radar to monitor the road ahead, intervening with counter-measures whenever there is a risk of an accident.
Additionally, the GR Yaris also has ABS, Traction Control, Electric Brakeforce Distribution, Brake Assist and Hill-start Assist Control. The Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system includes an Expert Mode that can be activated by skilled and experienced drivers. Basically, it disables Traction Control and the VSC but the engine and brakes may be controlled depending on the car’s behaviour.
5-year warranty too
Although the GR Yaris is a high-performance competition-capable car, it has been thoroughly tested (even by Toyota’s President himself) for durability and reliability. For this reason, it comes with a warranty that is similar to what is offered with other Toyota passenger cars which is 5 years long – with no limit on mileage.
“We are absolutely excited and thrilled to welcome the GR Yaris to Malaysia. It is a car that has attracted so much of attention and praise globally. It sets a new and higher benchmark not only for a vehicle in its segment but also in the very way in which the car is actually built, and when you’re finally confronted with it, all I can say is the GR Yaris’ reputation as a competition-bred performance car precedes it,” said UMWT’s President, Ravindran K.
Of the 25,000 units Toyota will produce, less than 200 units of the GR Yaris will be available for sale in Malaysia. Each one is priced from RM299,000 (excluding insurance and roadtax) and a limited number of units will have the Performance Pack, with each car bearing a special plate to indicate its exclusivity. Customers can choose from three colours: Platinum White Pearl, Emotional Red and Precious Black.
Additionally, UMWT is also offering an ‘Early Bird Package’ (worth a total of RM5,000) which consists of an exclusive helmet bag, a GR Yaris scale model and participation in a GR Yaris Driving Experience in 2021 to learn to enjoy the GR Yaris to the fullest.
While the other Toyota models are available at all authorized Toyota outlets nationwide, the GR Yaris (and GR Supra) are available only at outlets which have the GR Garage. To locate these outlets, visit www.toyota.com.my.
A Homologation Special is a model which is produced in a specific number required by the regulations of the FIA, the world motorsport governing body, in order for it to qualify for use in motorsports. The number can be as low as 200 units, which was applied for the powerful Group B rallycars of the 1980s.
Minimum production of 25,000 units
However, many of the models today which are used in FIA-sanctioned competition such as the World Rally Championship (WRC) are built to the requirement of a minimum number of 25,000 units within a certain period.
The 25,000 units are the total production number for the model type, of which 2,500 units can be high-performance variants as well. Toyota is producing 25,000 units of the new GR Yaris with similar primary specifications as it expects that there will be sufficient demand. In fact, demand has been exceptionally strong in markets where the new model has been launched.
Road-legal too
With a production run of 25,000 units, the GR Yaris would be able to qualify for all classes of FIA-sanctioned events anywhere in the world. An important aspect is that the cars are also road-legal so customers can buy them and drive them on public roads, enjoying their high performance.
There have been numerous Homologation Specials since the Lancia Stratos HF of 1974 made its debut. While Toyota’s Celica TwinCam Turbo of the 1980s was a Group B model built in very limited volumes, mainly for the WRC, the Celica GT4 (ST185) was a Homologation Special that was used by works teams as well as private teams around the world. It was the car which won Carlos Sainz (the senior Sainz, not the one in F1 today), Juha Kankkunen and Didier Auriol the WRC Drivers’ Championship in 1992, 1993 and 1994, respectively. It also won Toyota the WRC Manufacturers’ Championships in 1993 and 1994.
Some of the Homologation Specials
In many cases, manufacturers take a high-volume model which would be produced in more than 25,000 units and then develop the minimum of 2,500 units as variants with competition-oriented specifications. Proton did this with the Wira in the late 1990s, developing a high-performance variant with a 1.8-litre engine that was the Homologation Special and only 2,500 units were available.
Other examples on Homologation Specials over the years have been the Ford Escort RS, Fiat 131 Abarth, Subaru Impreza Turbo, Ford Sierra RS, Nissan Sunny (Pulsar) GTiR, Mazda 323 turbo 4×4 and of course, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
Following earlier reports that ferry services in Penang for 4-wheeled vehicles will be discontinued after the end of this year, the government has stepped in to provide funds to enable them to continue. RM30 million will be given to Penang Port Sdn Bhd which operates the remaining two ferries for maintenance and repairs.
The announcement of the end of the 126-year old ferry service drew public criticism as the ferries are considered iconic symbols of the island. However, due to their age, the remaining two ferries have been proving to become costly to maintain so it was decided to stop using one of them while the other would only be for motorcycles and bicycles for 6 months. Pedestrian ferry services would also be provided on speedboats pending the supply of larger and faster boats in July 2021.
Click on the link below to read out earlier story on the ferry services being stopped:
Penang ferry service for 4-wheelers to end on December 31, 2020
In the past week, you would have noticed an unusual post in your social media feeds which advised you to set aside whatever you planned to do on the evening of December 17. The message was from UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) which said that they have a surprise to announce.
Well, it is December 17 and if you are curious to know what the exciting news is all about, be at UMW Toyota Motor’s Facebook, YouTube or Instagram pages at 7:30 pm tonight.
“Whatever you’re doing on 17 December 2020 – IT CAN WAIT! We have surprise to share, and let’s just say that there’s a bit of something for everyone to appreciate especially after what has been an incredibly challenging year for Malaysians on all fronts ,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
“In many ways, what will be announced during the online event tonight will be an industry first for Toyota, and will be the foundation to ushering in an exciting 2021,” he hinted.
The company statement has not revealed what will be revealed or announced. Given how the company has been increasingly active in motorsports, it could be something related to motorsports (a new series?). In fact, recent teasers have mentioned ‘a newborn’ so it could even be a new sporty model as a helmet is shown.
Not only has UMWT been having racing events like the one-make Vios Challenge series but it is also providing serious training for a new generation of racers, as the video below shows.
UMWT’s Deputy Chairman, Akio Takeyama, said the brand seeks to ramp up its involvement, activities and programs in an even bigger and meaningful way in 2021. “The full details will be disclosed tonight but suffice to say we are going big!” said Mr. Takeyama, who is also the company’s Chief Motorsports Officer and participates is the Vios Challenge.
“At Toyota, we do not just build cars, we build people. Developing exceptional people is Toyota’s Number 1 priority. Reflecting on the challenges of 2020, I have seen this same spirit being manifested to bring out the best in Malaysians who have demonstrated strength, perseverance and determination in overcoming what has undoubtedly been a very difficult 2020. Now, it is time to move forward!” he said.
Click here for other news and articles about Toyota.
Sime Darby Motors has been building up its portfolio of automotive and automotive-related brands for many years, and today represents 31 brands in Asia and Australasia. Some 20 years ago, the Sime Darby unit tried to establish a shared approach for its brands but at that time, conditions were different and the idea was not so viable.
Today, that vision has been realised with Sime Darby Motors City in Ara Damansara, Selangor, where a number of brands are housed with sales and aftersales facilities available. Then Sime Darby Auto Selection was established to offer pre-owned vehicles, with an online channel as well.
For post-warranty vehicles
Now Sime Darby Auto Selection has also opened a multi-brand service centre, as part of the company’s strategy to offer a new aftersales service alternative, at a price point competitive with independent workshops, for post-warranty vehicles.
Located in Glenmarie, Selangor, the service centre offers owners the same quality of service provided by brand-specific authorised service centres. Utilising state-of-the-art equipment, the purpose-built facility is able to service and maintain vehicles of various brands. It has highly-trained and skilled technicians who can provide quality workmanship.
“The opening of this new after-service facility is very timely to meet the changing demands of car owners, who are always on the lookout for alternatives after their car warranty expires. With this one-stop service centre, car owners – especially those with different car brands – will enjoy the convenience of a one-stop service centre that offers high quality service, at an unrivalled price,” said Jeffrey Gan, MD for Retail & Distribution, Sime Darby Motors Malaysia.
“Customers today are more knowledgeable and aware of the changing trends in the market. With the new and innovative Sime Darby Auto Selection Service Centre, we hope to instil customer confidence so that this becomes their go-to centre for all their vehicle maintenance needs,” he added.
Various services available
Apart from basic services such as engine oil replacement, tyre alignment and balancing, air-conditioner and car disinfection service, the service centre also offers repairs, car washes and vehicle inspections.
The 4,117 square foot facility has 6 service bays and an environment for customers to wait comfortably. Those unable to personally send in their vehicles can also arrange for pick-up and delivery service. It operates 6 days a week from Monday to Saturday.
Collaboration with SpareXHub
Meanwhile, Sime Darby Motors Malaysia has also teamed up with SpareXHub to offer vehicle owners an additional avenue to purchase genuine automotive spare parts at competitive prices. The collaboration with the genuine spare parts e-commerce platform gives customers the ability to source, order and purchase original automotive spare parts of their preferred brands via a one-stop contactless platform from the comfort of their home or office.
Sime Darby Motors offers multiple brands under corporate programme
Some customers of Lamborghini are not satisfied buying the production models that are manufactured in a number of units. They want true exclusivity (and can pay for it) with a car that is completely personalized to their wishes. The project to meet such a demand has seen the creation of the SC20, a unique specimen of an open-top track car type-approved for road use.
Second one-off model
The SC20 is the second one-off model engineered by the carmaker’s motorsports department, Lamborghini Squadra Corse. It brought to reality a customer’s dream car and the customer was also involved in the project from the very first drawings by Lamborghini’s designers.
The common goal was to build a unique vehicle, extreme in its design and performance, and able to combine aerodynamic solutions taken from racing Lamborghinis incorporating unprecedented lines and exclusive details.
“Two years after the SC18 Alston, the SC20 was a new, intriguing challenge. The chief sources of inspiration were the Diablo VT Roadster, Aventador J, Veneno Roadster and Concept S, and the result is a dramatic combination of creativity and racing attitude,” explained Mitja Borkert, Head of Design Lamborghini Centro Stile.
Inspiration from racing Lamborghinis
The carbonfibre body was polished and slicked down by hand by the Lamborghini aerodynamic engineers to deliver optimal airflow for both performance and the cockpit’s occupants, ensuring comfortable open-air driving even at high speeds. The pronounced front splitter is framed by two fins and the air intakes on the bonnet are inspired by those of the Huracan GT3 EVO.
The sculpted body sides reflect the solutions adopted on the Essenza SCV12, and the muscular rear is topped by a large carbonfibre wing that can be set in three different positions: Low, Medium and High Load.
Exclusive details
The SC20 features exclusive details starting from the body colours on a Bianco Fu (white) base, created for the customer, on which the Blu Cepheus (blue) livery stands out. The same shade is found in the interior, alternating with Nero Cosmus (black) and Bianco Leda (white).
The most significant element of the passenger compartment is the visible carbonfibre used for the dashboard cover, rear wall, door panels, centre console and steering wheel trim, in addition to the monocoque. The lightweight material is also used for the shells of the seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather. The door handles on the other hand, are machined from solid aluminium. Lastly, the air vents are created using 3D printing technology at the factory.
“The SC20 is a combination of sophisticated engineering, Italian craftsmanship, sportiness and advanced design. It is also an example of applying our V12 engine and carbonfibre to a radical open-top vehicle that unmistakably carries the Lamborghini DNA,” said Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer of Automobili Lamborghini.
Its engine is based on Lamborghini’s flagship V12 – the 6498 cc 12-cylinder that delivers 770 ps at 8500 rpm and 720 Nm of torque at 6750 rpm. It is managed through the optimized 7-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox. The power reaches the four wheels through a 4-wheel drive system with a central electronic differential. To give the required grip are Pirelli PZero Corsa tyres are mounted on single-nut aluminium rims, 20 inches in front and 21 inches at the rear.
“The SC20 is one more technical and styling exercise that associates Squadra Corse experience with Lamborghini design, masterfully interpreted by our Centro Stile based on the customer’s wishes, which was the focus of the project during the entire vehicle development and construction process,” said Giorgio Sanna, Head of Lamborghini Motorsport.
Road-legal Lamborghini Huracan STO draws on motorsport heritage
Edaran Tan Chong Motor’s new Nissan Almera Turbo is beginning to appear on roads around the country in increasing numbers as new owners take delivery of their cars. Apart from the fresh new styling and turbocharged powertrain, the new Almera is also packed with many safety technologies which can contribute to helping reduce road accidents.
Nissan Safety Shield 360
These are the Nissan Safety Shield 360 technologies that work together to provide safety monitoring and intervening to prevent accidents when necessary. This follows the trend in the industry whereby driver assistance systems are being provided which use camera imagery as well as radar sensors to scan the road ahead. Additionally, there are sensors to scan the sides for vehicles in the blind spots, and towards the rear to aid reversing.
Standard on all Almera Turbo variants are the Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking (IFEB) systems. The IFCW, operational at speeds between 5 km/h and 80 km/h, monitors the road ahead and alerts the driver when the car is too close to a vehicle ahead or there is a risk of collision.
The alert is shown on the 7-inch Advance Drive Assist Display (ADAD), along with an audible alert. This means the driver should take steps such as decelerating or even braking to avoid the collision. However, if the driver does not take these actions, then the system will take over and activate the brakes automatically.
The early braking should prevent a collision or at least reduce the speed so that the severity is less, which can make repair costs less expensive. The brakes will remain locked for about 2 seconds after the car stops moving before being deactivated.
Alerting drivers behind
Incidentally, the Almera brake system has an Emergency Stop Signal function which can help to reduce rear-end collisions. If the brake pedal is pressed hard and suddenly, the hazard warning lights will come on automatically (besides the brake lights, of course). This will alert drivers behind that the car is decelerating very quickly under braking as they might not notice it right away. This will prompt them to also brake and slow down, and it could prevent the sort of multiple accidents on highways that we read about.
Watching the sides and rear
Other safety technologies available are the Blind Spot Warning (BSW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) systems. BSW is available from around 32 km/h and uses sensors to keep an eye on blind spot areas at approximately 3 metres x 3 metres towards the rear sides of the car. If the turn signal is activated and a vehicle is detected, the drive will be warned by sound as well as warning indicators on the ADAD and the relevant side mirror.
RCTA is a more recent safety system that is slowly appearing in cars. It is useful during reversing out of a parking bay when the driver’s view of either side might be blocked. The same rear radar sensors help to detect an approaching vehicle on either side and warn the driver with an audible alert and indicator on the side mirror where the vehicle is approaching from. This warning could help save an expensive accident!
Parking made easy
The Almera Turbo driver is also assisted by the Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM) with Intelligent Moving Object Detection (IMOD). This system (also offered in the X-Trail, Serena S-Hybrid and Navara) not only helps make parking easier but also watches out for moving objects nearby so that an accident does not occur.
The IAVM uses 4 tiny cameras installed on the bodywork and with the use of a computer program, the images are combined to create a simulated view of the car from above which shows all sides. It’s like having a drone overhead sending a video view to the display on the dashboard. The simulated image is detailed enough to show obstacles on the ground so the driver can avoid them and position the car precisely inside the parking bay.
Needless to say, the Almera Turbo has all the usual Active Safety systems like ABS with Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution for balanced braking performance, and Hill Start Assist to enable confident moving off on slopes.
“The all-new Nissan Almera Turbo takes the popular B-sedan to a new level of refinement and enhancements not usually found in this segment. With the theme ‘Challenge All Beliefs’, the all-new Nissan Almera Turbo is not the Almera everyone knew before. It is completely redesigned to be energetic, provocative and engaging with its dynamic styling, confidence-inspiring performance and innovative technologies, that sets to challenge customers’ beliefs on what modern sedans should be,” said Christopher Tan, Sales and Marketing Director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd.
Test-drive and win an iPhone
Mr. Tan invites the public to try the new Almera Turbo at Nissan showrooms nationwide. “Those who take a test-drive stand a chance to win one of 5 iPhone SE mobilephones and also a chance to win prizes in the ‘Buy & Win’ Contest when they purchase and register the all-new Nissan Almera Turbo before December 31, 2020,” he said.
Until December 31, 2020, prices in Peninsular Malaysia (without insurance) range from RM79,906 to RM91,310 with sales tax exemption. After that, the sales tax of 10% will be included again and the prices of the three variants will be increased to between RM83,888 and RM95,888.
A 5-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty comes standard, along with free scheduled maintenance for 5 times (alternating) during the first 5 years.
First Look at the all-new Nissan Almera Turbo (N18), with brief driving impressions
UPDATE ON 17/12/2020: The Penang ferry services for 4-wheelers will not be discontinued after December 31, 2020 as the government has asked for them to continue. A sum of RM30 million will be provided to the Penang Port Sdn Bhd, which operates the ferry services, for maintenance and repairs so that the two ferries can continue to be used.
If you have not travelled on the Penang ferry, or have not done so for a long time, your last chance to do so will be December 31, 2020. After that, the service that has been running for 126 years will cease for 4-wheeled vehicles but will still be available for pedestrians, motorcycles and bicycles. From January 1, 2021, motorcars and commercial vehicles will have to use the two bridges to cross over to the island or vice-versa.
The move to end ferry operations is partly due to the ferries being old and maintenance costs are high. Though there used to be a number of ferries before, the number has actually dropped to two (Pulau Talang Talang and Pulau Angsa) as the others have aged and were decommissioned. While their vehicle-carrying role may no longer be used, there are plans to preserve them by turning them into a floating restaurant and museum at the Tanjung City Marina in George Town.
During the first six months of next year, two speedboats will be used to provide ferry services 40 times a day. These will be able to take around 200 passengers at a time. Currently, 1.2 million people use the ferries daily. It is believed that one of the remaining ferries will be used in the short-term for ferrying motorcycles.
With the suspension of the vehicle ferry services, the Raja Tun Uda Terminal will be closed for renovation and the ferry operations will be moved to Swettenham Pier. After the work is completed, the terminal will be reopened for the ferry services. New rates will also be announced at that time and additional vessels will also be put into service.
History of the Penang ferry service
Generations of Malaysians have travelled on the ferries to cross over to the island before the first Penang Bridge was opened in 1985. The first regular ferry service began in the late 1800s, 1893 or 1894, and it was operated by the Beng Brothers. At that time, their ferries used the Kedah Pier on the island and Bagan Tuan Kecil Pier on the mainland side in Butterworth.
As the use of the ferry services grew, so too did the company running them although it was eventually taken over entirely by one of the brothers. The harbour authorities ensured that proper facilities were constructed with piers extending further out so that the ferries could dock in deeper water.
The modern ferries as we know them today appeared in the late 1950s, and they had the ability to efficiently load and unload vehicles at both ends. In fact, most of these early ones were used for decades and by now, the remaining ones are about 40 years old. To the credit of the engineers who designed and built them, and the people who maintained them, the mechanical breakdown that resulted in services being suspended only took place in August this year – the first time in the 126-year history of the service.
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