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Audi goes further with its digital OLED technology (w/VIDEO)

Last month, a new generation of lighting technology made its debut in the Audi Q5: digital OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) technology. The use of OLEDs is not new to the German carmaker and in fact, Audi was a pioneer as far back as in 2016.

What are OLEDs?
OLED light sources are panel radiators, unlike point light sources such as LEDs using semiconductor crystals. The benefits of OLEDs are that their light is extremely homogeneous, infinitely dimmable and has very high contrast. The light can be split into segments which are individually controllable and can develop diverse levels of brightness, with minimal gaps between the segments.

The lighting unit does not require any reflectors, optical fibres or similar optics. This makes OLED units very efficient, lightweight and flat, which considerably increases design freedom. An OLED lighting element is just one mm thin, while conventional LED solutions require much greater installed depths of 20 to 30 mm.

The energy requirement of an OLED is also significantly lower than that of LED optics if the latter are to achieve similar homogeneity. Audi’s OLED technology made its production debut in the taillight of the TT RS1 in 2016. Up to now, Audi models using OLED lighting technology have had up to 4 individually controllable, complex lighting segments that could be used for an individual, defined lighting design.

The advantage of digital OLEDs
But now it’s the age of digitalization and this technology promises to improve road safety and is the first to allow for personalization of the taillight signature. Audi’s new digital OLEDs have a larger number of individually controllable segments that can now be randomly activated, with continuous variability of brightness.

In the Q5, three tiles of 6 units each (18 segments per lamp) are currently used. The high precision and great variability offer light designers a wealth of opportunities, using just one type of hardware. Q5 customers opting for digital OLED technology have a choice of three signatures in the taillights when purchasing their car. In the ‘dynamic’ Audi drive select mode, the lamps additionally switch to another signature.

More dynamic signalling
Moreover, animation effects such as coming-home/leaving-home lighting scenarios can be implemented, plus the dynamic flashing light has been integrated in the new lamp units as well.

In the new Q5, Audi has implemented a proximity detection feature for the versions using digital OLED taillights. When another road user approaches a stationary Q5 from the rear within less than 2 metres, all the OLED segments light up. When the Q5 starts to move, it returns to the original light signature. This is just an initial example of the automobile’s car-to-x communication with its surroundings.

Further advancements
Further down the road, there will be clearly more segments per taillight, allowing for even greater personalization of signature lighting. For instance, predefined symbols might be displayed to provide other road-users with early warnings of hazards such as slippery roads or the tail ends of traffic jams.

“Up to now, we have been using OLED segmentation with the Audi TT RS1 and A8 for designing signature lighting. This has changed with the Q5,” said OLED technology project manager Dr. Werner Thomas. “Here the taillights turn into a kind of display on the outer shell, which will provide us with ample opportunities and prospects in terms of design, personalization, communication and safety going forward.”

Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback Concept

Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 to deliver ‘purest track experience’

“With Essenza SCV12, we wanted to elevate not only performance and driving pleasure but also the experience off the track.” And with that promise, Stefano Domenicali, CEO & Chairman of Automobili Lamborghini, unveiled the Essenza SCV12, a track-only hypercar in a limited edition of 40 units.

Developed by Lamborghini Squadra Corse and designed by Lamborghini Centro Stile, the Essenza SCV12 is the direct descendant of cars such as the Miura Jota and Diablo GTR. It is propelled by the most powerful V12 naturally aspirated engine ever developed by Lamborghini, combined with aerodynamics inspired by racing prototypes and new technical solutions designed for the ultimate driving experience.

“Essenza SCV12 represents the purest track driving experience that our brand can offer, an engineering feat that highlights the inextricable link between our cars and the asphalt of the track. Lamborghini is a brand constantly looking to the future and searching for new challenges, but we never forget our roots and who we are: Essenza SCV12 is the perfect combination of our unconventional spirit as a super sports car manufacturer and our true passion for motorsport,” said Mr. Domenicali.

Born for the track
The Essenza SCV12 was created for exclusive track use, with engineering solutions derived from racing. The V12 engine can generate over 830 bhp, with a significant power uplift from the RAM effect at high speeds. The exhaust pipes were designed by Capristo to reduce the back pressure, improving performance and emphasizing the unique sound of the engine.

The power is handled by a new X-trac sequential 6-speed gearbox as a structural element within the chassis, combined with rear-wheel drive to ensure compactness, structural continuity, and greater torsional stiffness.

Not surprisingly, the Essenza SCV12 has an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 1.66 bhp/kg, thanks to the lighter weight of the new-generation carbonfibre monocoque chassis without internal rollcage. It is also the first GT car developed in accordance with FIA prototype safety rules.

To ensure maximum agility and stability on even the most demanding tracks, kinematic solutions inspired by racing prototypes have been adopted. These include the pushrod rear suspension installed directly on the gearbox. Specific slick Pirelli tyres are mounted on magnesium rims (19 inches in front, 20 inches at the rear), which frame the brake discs and calipers developed by Brembo Motorsport.

“Essenza SCV12 is the ultimate expression of the V12 naturally aspirated engine, the symbol of our brand since 1963. It is a project in which we combined the pursuit of engineering perfection with refined aerodynamics, futuristic design, and innovative solutions such as the carbon monocoque without internal roll-cage. The result is an engaging and uncompromising car, born to race and to showcase on the track the characteristics that have made Lamborghini famous worldwide, guaranteeing unique and special emotions for both the driver and onlookers,” said Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer of Automobili Lamborghini.

Aerodynamics from racing experience
The aerodynamics benefit from Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s GT racing experience to ensure a level of efficiency and higher downforce levels than a GT3 car, with a value of 1,200 kgs at 250 km/h. The front bonnet has a double air intake with a central rib, typical of the Huracan racing cars, which separates the hot airflow coming from the radiator and conveys the cold air to the airscoop located on the roof.

The front features a splitter and two lateral elements; on the sides, the flows for engine and gearbox cooling have been optimized through the use of vertical fins situated on the side sills. The aerodynamic package is completed by the large adjustable double-profile rear wing.

Lamborghini DNA in design
The sleek yet taut and dynamic lines combine the appeal of 1970s prototypes and elements typical of Lamborghini’s DNA, like the hexagonal geometry that characterizes the front headlights, and the roof airscoop and air vents that frame the steering wheel. There is also the unmistakable “Y”, the stylistic feature repeated on the livery and in the cockpit, where each element represents the best compromise between lightweight, functionality and design.

The instrument panel and dashboard are supported by an asymmetrical carbon ‘Y’, a load-bearing and stylistic element that frames the cockpit, designed to put the driver at the centre of an absolute driving experience.

Exclusive driving experience for owners
Essenza SCV12 customers will become part of an exclusive club that will give them access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world. The program includes storage service in a new hangar built in Sant’Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club. Each car will have a personalized garage and dedicated services, including webcams to allow customers to monitor their cars 24 hours a day using an app.

The facility also houses the Lamborghini Squadra Corse Drivers Lab by Tecnobody to offer athletic training programs similar to those followed by the official Lamborghini racing drivers.

The top comes off the Lamborghini Sian Coupe with a Roadster variant

New Volvo 3S centre opened in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

In its aim to increase its presence in the country, Volvo Car Malaysia has not forgotten East Malaysia. Last November, it appointed Sebangga Mitsinbo Sdn. Bhd as a dealer-partner in Sabah and recently, the same business partner opened a new 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) centre in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Sebangga Mitsinbo Sdn. Bhd. (part of the Sebangga Group and formerly known as Sebangga Auto) joins Volvo Car Malaysia’s network of 13 dealers across the country. It is the sole authorised Volvo car dealer for the state of Sabah.

“Volvo Car Malaysia and the Sebangga Group share the same vision of protecting what is important, which is why we are honoured to have Sebangga Mitsinbo as our 14th 3S centre in Malaysia. As a brand, we want to enable a dynamic driving experience for our Sabahan customers, as they journey on the road, in life and with the brand, while also caring for the planet through a more sustainable drive with Volvo Cars,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia.

“With the establishment of a 3S centre in Kota Kinabalu, it reinforces our commitment to make roads safer – our vision is that no one should be seriously injured or killed in a new Volvo car. With this partnership, our hope for this new dealership is to make premium, safe and quality vehicles accessible to the Sabahan community and from there, spur a movement of being safe on the road,” he added.

Volvo Retail Experience
Inspired by the brand’s Scandinavian-inspired ideals and heritage, the Sebangga Mitsinbo 3S Centre adheres to Volvo Car’s retail standard – the Volvo Retail Experience (VRE). The open space and minimalistic-but-functional furniture are part of the Volvo design language which creates a contemporary luxury experience.

The two-storey space features a showroom at the ground floor, a service centre, a Volvo Car Lifestyle Collection and an Accessories showcase. Volvo’s latest models will be on display and visitors can request for test drives of the XC40, XC60, XC90, S60 and S90.

Volvo XC40 — *XC40 – one of the Volvo models in the current range.*

“This partnership with Volvo resonates well with our vision, in that we, too, value life above all. With Volvo being the pioneers in automotive safety, we are proud to carry the brand under our group and continue to strengthen their position as well as our mutual goal in protecting what is important. The addition of this 3S centre here in Sabah is part of our journey together with Volvo to help make roads safer for passengers and vehicles,” said Dato’ Arif Ambrose Ng, Chairman of Sebangga Group.

“At Volvo Cars, we understand that the value, quality and accessibility of services are just as important as the car, which is why we remain committed to ensuring that all of our customers experience a seamless and premium journey of acquiring and owning a Volvo car,” said Mr. Nalin.

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

The Petrol Subsidy Program has been cancelled

Throughout much of last year, the subject of ‘targeted’ fuel subsidies was discussed because the government wanted only the groups that need fuel at subsidized prices get them. The approach was finalized and announced in early October with a planned implementation date at the beginning of 2020. However, in late December, it was announced that the Petrol Subsidy Program (PSP), as it was known, would be postponed. The reason – to allow ‘fine-tuning of the implementation process’ by the Ministry of Finance.

A new date of implementing the PSP was not given and the postponement was used to provide more explanation and clarification to ensure people fully understand the PSP. In any case, the postponement did not have any immediate effect for those who would have been entitled to receive subsidies as the mechanism provided subsidies only once every 4 months. Eligible motorcycle and car owners in Peninsular Malaysia were to receive RM12 a month and RM30 a month, respectively.

The PSP is’dead’
You will note that we are using the past tense and that’s because the PSP is ‘dead’. It was announced by the Deputy Minister for Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs today. He said one reason the government made the decision to abandon the PSP approach after considering the price difference of fuel between the Peninsula and East Malaysia.

Other reasons were not given although it seems likely that the unexpected economic challenges faced by the government this year would have provided a persuasive argument to not use the RM2.4 billion that had been allocated for the PSP this year.

Motorcyclists would have received RM30 a month under the subsidy program.

The program would have provided direct assistance to 8 million motorists in the lower income groups, while those who did not qualify would pay prices for fuel at rates determined by the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) with no subsidy. This has been the case with RON97 petrol which has been priced according to a ‘managed float’ that is adjusted on a weekly basis.

So what happens now?
Presumably, the current arrangement will continue until such time that a new approach of using subsidies more effectively can be planned. Last month, the ceiling prices for petrol and diesel were removed, which led consumers to believe that the prices of RON95 petrol and diesel will go beyond the levels that they were capped at.

*The last time that subsidies were applied to offset higher cost of fuel prices was in early February this year.*

Under the PH government, it was decided that the prices of the two grades of fuel would not exceed RM2.08 and RM2.18 a litre, respectively. If they did (according to the APM), then subsidies would be used to offset the additional cost to keep them at those levels.

However, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs ministry quickly issued a statement to say that the action taken with the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Determination of Maximum Retail Price for Petrol and Diesel) (No. 8) (Revocation) Order 2020 was for enforcement purposes. It would allow the Finance Ministry to ensure that prices set would be adhered to (although there has not been any reported case of stations not following the designated pump prices).

What are the ceiling prices?
The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs minister clarified that the ceiling price was not revoked. But since early March, the government has not had to use any subsidies to maintain the price levels as global oil prices kept falling. They are slowly increasing though still well below the ceiling prices. It should be noted that the statement by the minister did not specifically say that the original ceiling prices would be maintained nor that subsidies would be applied. He only said that the pump prices would follow the APM so we won’t know what will happen until RON95 petrol reaches RM2.08/litre or diesel reaches RM2.18/litre.

3-month extension on loan moratorium for those who are still unemployed

With the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and closure of businesses for an extended period, the government managed to convince the banking industry to allow a moratorium on loans, including hire-purchase (H-P) loans. For a 6-month period up to the end of September 2020, monthly instalments did not have to be paid and no penalty would be imposed.

However, this did not mean the 6 months of instalments were deducted; what the move was meant to do was to give some breathing space to those who had been affected by pay cuts or worse, loss of employment and faced difficulty making the monthly payments. They would, however, have to resume making payments from October and their loan tenure would be extended by 6 months. No additional interest would be charged.

Today, the Prime Minister announced that there will be a further 3-month extension provided on the moratorium, which takes it up to the end of December 2020. But before you breathe a sigh of relief, there’s a condition: the extension is for those who lost their job in 2020 and are still unemployed.

For others who have H-P loans, payments will have to commence in October although those who have financial difficulties can discuss with their respective banks on various solutions that are available. For example, they could extend the repayment period so that the instalments are lower.

For other types of loans besides H-P loans, there can be adjustments to the instalment amounts for those who continue to be employed. They will have to discuss with their banks to work out a revised schedule of payments. One bank offers a Repayment Assistance Programme with flexible repayment terms which includes reduced monthly instalment and extension of loan/ financing tenure.

To apply for the extended moratorium, you will need to get in touch with your bank and provide them with the relevant documents to show that you qualify for the extension. If you require a long period, it will be up to the bank to consider the request. The PM said that the banks have expressed a willingness to extend assistance to anyone who appeals.

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

Proton Used Car Management division sees increasing business

According to the President of the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), sales of used vehicles saw significant growth during the first 6 months of this year. While sales of all vehicles, new and used, were suspended for some months due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) and closure of businesses, when sales activity resumed, many people headed for used car lots to look for lower-priced vehicles.

The reason for this new buying pattern is believed to be concern about using public transport which has risks of COVID-19 infection due to the crowded environment. As such, many people would rather have their own transport and are buying a used car which would be more affordable than a new one.

While Proton’s main business is making and selling new vehicles, it also realises that the used car business represents a critical component of the automotive value chain. Therefore, as part of its overall strategy, it started to develop a Used Car Management (UCM) department so as to streamline the sales and distribution of used cars in support of new car sales.

Pilot project began at 8 outlets
The UCM division began operations in 2019 with a pilot project consisting of 8 outlets located in various dealerships. The initial period was used to establish operating procedures and to train used car inspectors who would manage transactions in each outlet. In 2020, the goal is to have operations established at 36 3S/4S outlets nationwide.

“With Proton’s sales growing quickly and expected to increase over the coming years, the role of used car management has become more important as we assist customers who need to dispose of their used vehicles. When we started the UCM division in 2019, the goals set were to support new car sales and to improve the resale value of Proton cars,” explained Brian Cheah, Head of Used Car Management.

The target set for UCM is for replacement sales, where a current owner trades in a Proton model for a new one, to account for a minimum of 10% of the volume for outlets with UCM operations. The company has also established programmes to help achieve the target such as Proton Xchange, designed to encourage current owners to replace their current cars with the latest Proton model.

Proton Certified Pre-Owned
With regard to the sale of trade-ins, cars sold by UCM will be marketed under the Proton Certified Pre-Owned (PCPO) banner. All PCPO vehicles undergo a comprehensive 201-point inspection and are guaranteed to have never suffered any flood or major structural damage due to accidents. They also get a 1-year extended warranty covering the engine and transmission and are eligible for a one-time free service (engine oil and oil filter only) up to 6 months after their registration date.

“In the future, UCM will set up a dedicated Proton used car portal with an online selling platform to attract tech- savvy used car buyers. Potential customers will be able to view our stock remotely and they can also browse the website to get estimated valuations for their current cars,” said Mr. Cheah.

UCM outlets get more sales
Despite being relatively new to the market, the UCM outlets have already had a positive impact. “We started the UCM program in October 2019 and it has helped our Sales Advisors to close deals as we can now offer competitive trade-in value for used Proton cars,” said Ryan Lai, MD of LHM One Stop Car Service Centre, a PROTON 4S dealership in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan.

Judith Yam, MD of Atiara Johan, a 4S outlet in Puchong, Selangor, revealed that the dealership has recorded over 130 trade-in transactions. “Since it was established, UCM boosted our sales by offering special incentives for customers who are current Proton owners. they see as a value-added service that allows them to easily purchase a new Proton,” she explained.

Revised Proton prices with additional ‘Tax Holiday’ Promotion

Perodua expands on public protection initiative

Continuing its role as a good corporate citizen, Perodua has expanded on its public protection initiative with the recent distribution of a further 10,000 face shields within the Hulu Selangor district and Selayang municipality.

Recipients in Hulu Selangor, where the Malaysian carmaker has its headquarters and manufacturing complex, included the District Health Office, community and dental clinics, enforcers from the District Council’s (MDHS) Licensing Department, plus various morning and night market hawkers.

The carmaker also contributed face shields to the Selayang Municipal Council’s (MPS) Licensing and Enforcement Departments, and through them, hawkers and street sellers in the area.

“Perodua’s face shield contributions are our way of giving back to the surrounding communities who have supported and made us feel at home for the past 27 years,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

“As a People First company and a good corporate citizen, Perodua cares very much for the safety, health and well-being of the general public in these COVID-19 times. We have given out over 21,000 face shields to date; we hope they will be worn conscientiously and diligently by those going about their daily duties, bravely continuing to give all of us the services, healthcare and provisions we need,” he added.

Last month, prior to schools reopening, Perodua gave out some 11,000 face shields to secondary schools in Putrajaya and Hulu Selangor.

The face shields, manufactured by an associate of Perodua, feature a fog-resistant visor made of polyethylene terephthalate for optimal visibility, sponge cushioning that hugs the forehead to act as a barrier against airborne droplets, and an adjustable elastic band for a snug and comfortable fit.

“We are not out of the woods yet in our battle against COVID-19. We hope Malaysians will continue to adopt and adapt to the new normal by exercising caution and complying with all the government’s health and safety guidelines,” advised Dato’ Zainal.

Visit www.perodua.com.my to know more about other Corporate Social Responsibility activities of the carmaker.

Manufacturer of world’s toughest, heavy-duty off-road buses to launch 4×4 off-road minibus

TORSUS, based in the Czech Republic, manufactures what it claims to be the world’s toughest, heavy-duty off-road buses. The started with the Praetorian, the world’s first production off-road bus, which has found many customers in heavy industry, utility and government service sectors in global markets.

Now the company will add a 4×4 off-road minibus to its range to provide a transport vehicle that can travel into the most difficult terrain. To be known as the Terrastorm, it uses a Volkswagen Crafter/MAN TGE 4Motion chassis with power from a 2-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, The engine can be tuned to produce 140 ps/340 Nm or 176 ps/410 Nm and be ordered with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Terrastorm has undergone a rigorous test program to ensures that it can withstand and handle extreme off-road usage. During testing, the chassis was upgraded chassis and off-road suspension developed. The all-wheel drive system has a locking rear differential while heavy-duty 17-inch BF Goodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 tyres are fitted.

The Terrastorm has a ground clearance of 290 mm, approach and departure angles of 26 degrees and 20 degrees, and a wading depth of 690 mm. Customers who expect to cross deeper stretches of water can select the ‘Deep Wave’ pack which enables the vehicle to travel through water up to 820 mm deep.

The TORSUS bumper, with an integrated winch, is designed to offer improved off-road capabilities with better approach angles. As part of the underside protection, the custom 5mm Duraluminium skidplate protects the engine, radiator, transmission, rear axle and other components from costly damage when off-road.

While targeting the commercial vehicle market, TORSUS also sees potential for the Terrastorm in the leisure market. The highly capable workhorse can also be used on weekends for family outings. The interior can be configured to customer requirements with seating for 9 to 20 passengers. Each occupant will have a comfortable but strong seat with a skeleton consisting of 2-4mm of sheet metal and 3-point seatbelts. For more extreme conditions, TORSUS can provide ‘extra active’ seats with 5-point harnesses.

Unlike most minibuses, the Terrastorm’s internal seating configuration can be altered to swivel seating with multifunction tables on a special seat rail system. This means the rows of seats can be positioned opposite each other making use of the multifunction tables, serving as a workspace. A customer can also easily install modular components to convert it into a personal camper.

Above the seats is the innovative TORSUS Air Channel. This is a luggage rack offering each occupant individual lighting, air conditioning vents and speakers. The passenger cabin is lined with 30 mm thermal insulation and the anti-slip floor is 18 mm high-density water-resistant board with 2 mm PVC floor coverings for easy cleaning.

Among the various configurations available is a medevac transporter. The Terrastorm can be used as an off-road ambulance to transport patients or even act as a mobile intensive care unit. The interior can be equipped with more noise insulation and fitted with electrical systems and an oxygen supply system.

“The Terrastorm aims to break that tradition as we set new standards in this market. We have taken what we know from Praetorian and translated it to a smaller overall footprint, but the dependability and toughness remain. By working with customers and listening to feedback and hearing their problems, we find solutions to create the ultimate off-road minibus,” said Vakhtang Dzhukashvili, founder and CEO of TORSUS.

To be manufactured at TORSUS’ production plant in Slovakia, the Terrastorm is expected to be available for delivery during the third quarter of 2020. It will be available in both lefthand and righthand drive variants with prices starting from €57,461 (about RM286,000).

TORSUS has a presence on three continents (Europe, Australia and South America) and is looking at expanding into more territories with the Philippines market being considered in the Southeast Asian region.

Formula E resumes on August 5 with 6 rounds over 9 days!

As with Formula 1, Formula E – the all-electric single-seater championship – had its schedule suspended after the COVID-19 pandemic forced lockdowns in many countries. Five rounds were run since the sixth season started in November last year and the last race was held in Marrakesh at the end of February (below).

Now after a break of more than 5 months, Formula E will resume with the Berlin e-Prix – and it will be hectic. Over a period of 9 days, there will be six races at the circuit on the former Tempelhof airport site in the south of Berlin, Germany. The compressed schedule is partly because Formula E championships typically start in November.

Three track layouts for 6 races
As an additional challenge, there will be three different track layouts. The familiar circuit from recent years will only be used on August 8 and 9. For the opening rounds on August 5 and 6, this layout will be driven in the opposite direction and for the final races on August 12 and 13, the circuit will be completely redesigned. As usual in Formula E, the teams only received their data last week so that there won’t be a lot of time to intensively prepare for the track variations.

Formula E Berlin Tempelhof circuit — *The track will have a similar layout for the first four rounds but two will be in reverse. The final two rounds will have a different layout.*

The German authorities have permitted the races to be run with a strict hygiene concept which must be adhered to. The number of team members on-site will be significantly less and there can be no fans nor sponsors present. Press conferences will be held virtually, and the podium ceremony is to be reduced to a minimum. As usual, each race will last for 45 minutes plus one lap. All international channels, including the broadcast schedule, can be found online at www.fiaformulae.com. The races start at 7 pm Central European Summer Time which will be 1 am the next day in Malaysia.

Among the 12 teams is the Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler which will be aiming to deliver strong results on home territory. A maximum of 180 points – including those for the fastest time in qualifying, pole position and the fastest race lap – can be scored by any of the 24 drivers.

Championship still open
With just 38 points separating the front runner from the tenth-placed driver, it is clear that the championship is still completely open. “I am pretty sure that in the end, the final championship positions will look completely different to what they do now,” predicts Team Principal Allan McNish. “This ‘6-pack’ in Berlin reminds me a little of a restart following a caution period in the last race of the season, with only a few more laps to go in the last race of the season.”

Lucas di Grassi is fired up for the restart of the season. “The break also had some positive aspects, because I had a lot of time with my son and my family. I also did a lot of sports, ate a healthy diet and spent many days with the data of the first rounds of the season. But at some point, you’ve had your fill of it and finally want to race again,” said the Brazilian driver. “We’re going to Berlin to claim the title – that’s clearly my goal.”

Formula E Audi Sport — *Lucas Di Grassi in the Audi e-tron FE06*

‘A totally different game’
Berlin has always been a good venue for the most successful Formula E driver with 31 podium (5 times in Berlin). “We’ve had many sweet moments in Berlin before and, of course, that gives you a positive feeling,” he said. “Even so, it’s a totally different game this time: new track layouts, no fans and guests, many races within a short space of time – the question of who will best cope with this will also be crucial.”

While di Grassi is traveling to Berlin with the experience of 63 races, the tally of his new teammate, Rene Rast, reflects just one. He drove in 2016 as a guest entrant for a different team and on a completely different track in downtown Berlin. Consequently, the past few weeks were extremely busy for the two-time DTM champion.

“I did everything I could – in addition to testing, I analyzed data for hours on end, watched videos and spent an enormous amount of time with the engineers,” said Rast. “It’s difficult to express expectations for my debut with Audi, but one thing is clear: I’d like to arrive in Berlin perfectly prepared and deliver a good result.”

Formula E 2020 — [All images and video courtesy of Formula E]

Besides Formula E, Rast is also racing in the DTM, where he is defending his title with Audi. This means that between August 1 and 23, the German will be competing in 12 races in two completely different cars – Formula E with the fully-electric Audi e-tron FE06 single-seater and in the DTM with the Audi RS 5 DTM touring car. “These are two totally different worlds with completely different challenges for any race driver. But the six Formula E races in such short succession are ideal for a fast learning curve …”

Mitsubishi XPANDER confirmed for introduction in Malaysia during 2020

The rumours are true: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will be launching the Mitsubishi XPANDER crossover this year. The 7-seater crossover originated in the Indonesian market where the production hub is located, and has been progressively introduced in various ASEAN countries.

The new XPANDER blends functionality with SUV-inspired styling. While Its rugged image appeals broadly, it also has the roominess, convenience, style and functionality which consumers of today want. These qualities are expanded to make it highly suitable for Malaysian lifestyles.

The XPANDER’s styling adopts the ‘Dynamic Shield’ front design concept which has been incorporated in every Mitsubishi model launched in recent years. The ‘Dynamic Shield’ not only gives a bold appearance but also expresses high performance and a sense of protection for the driver and passengers.

Its successful design concept has been validated by the various awards it has won. Some of the prominent awards are ‘2018 Car of the Year’ in Indonesia; ‘Philippines 2019 Automobile of the Year (Standard Category)’; and ‘Thailand Car of the Year 2019 and 2020’ as well as ‘The Best MPV under 1600 cc’ (also in Thailand).

“The XPANDER is not just an important model for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, but across the ASEAN region as well. As of June 2020, the model has reached cumulative sales of around 256,000 units. The success of the XPANDER in our neighbouring countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam reflects how well-suited this car will be to meet the needs of Malaysian customers. MMM is very excited for a thrilling year ahead with the introduction of this impressive 7-seater crossover in Malaysia later this year,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

The question now is whether it will be assembled locally, as the Outlander and ASX models are, or will it be imported as a CBU model from Indonesia? Although the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) agreement allows for duty-free importation, having a model assembled locally would enable the pricing to be more competitive.

2020 Mitsubishi XPANDER — *The launch date must be close as a unit was spotted being moved around recently.*

If you are keen to get one, visit an authorised Mitsubishi Motors dealer to let them know of your interest so you can be updated. Information will also be available at www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my.

MITSUBISHI CONNECT adds convenience to the ownership experience for Mitsubishi owners

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English

Audi goes further with its digital OLED technology (w/VIDEO)

Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 to deliver ‘purest track experience’

New Volvo 3S centre opened in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

The Petrol Subsidy Program has been cancelled

3-month extension on loan moratorium for those who are still unemployed

Proton Used Car Management division sees increasing business

Manufacturer of world’s toughest, heavy-duty off-road buses to launch 4×4 off-road minibus

Formula E resumes on August 5 with 6 rounds over 9 days!

Mitsubishi XPANDER confirmed for introduction in Malaysia during 2020

Review: The Leapmotor C10 – Perfect For You?

Penang Extends Free Bus Services with RM7 Million Pas Mutiara Allocation for 2025

Hyundai and BAIC Bolster China Joint Venture with $1.1 Billion Investment Amid Sales Decline

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Archive

Two Lucky Winners Announced In Proton’s Test Drive & Win Campaign

GWM Malaysia Secures 1,500 Bookings for the Haval H6 HEV

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JPJ Confirms No New Conditions for Senior Drivers to Renew Licenses

BMW Marks 30 Years in Mexico with Exclusive M2 Coupe 30 Years Edition

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