BMW Malaysia has introduced two new models as their latest definition of progressive luxury. Making their way to the Malaysian market, the first-ever 2019 BMW X7 and BMW 740Le xDrive are the pinnacles of luxury and plan to charge ahead as the new benchmark in the luxury segment. (more…)
Global warning is inevitable with how irresponsible parties are treating our Mother Earth but luckily, there are some of us out there who are willing to go above and beyond to reduce their carbon footprints. Goodyear Malaysia recently did their part by installing 6,680 solar panels at their corporate office and production plant in Shah Alam, Selangor. (more…)
Throughout the course of the year, Bentley Motors has been celebrating its 100th birthday, building up to a climax which presents its vision of the future of luxury mobility. That vision was finally revealed yesterday in 3-dimensional form as the Bentley EXP 100 GT. It is a physical embodiment of the future Bentley brand, reimagining Grand Touring for the future.
Designed from the inside out and taking advantage of a brand new all-electric platform, the EXP 100 GT reimagines the Grand Tourer for the world of 2035. The cars’ presence and impressive exterior proportions are reminiscent of many of Bentley’s historic Grand Tourers but take these luxury hallmarks into the future. The result is a future vision commensurate with Bentley’s status, assuring its clientele that they will continue to enjoy superlative luxury.
Sustainable innovation
Sustainable innovation is also at the heart of the EXP 100 GT experience. The car is engineered to create a greater awareness of the world outside, with an intelligently-curated collection of materials including 5,000 year old Copper Infused Riverwood; Compass exterior paint made from recycled rice husks; 100% organic leather-like textile from wine making; British Farmed Wool carpets and embroidered cotton interior surfaces which all create sustainable future luxury, adding to the enhanced reality of the grand touring car of the future.
Made from lightweight aluminium and carbonfibre, the EXP 100 GT is 5.8 metres long and almost 2.4 metres wide. The driver and passenger doors are 2 metres wide and pivot outwards and upwards for effortless access. Fully open, they rise to almost 3 metres, adding to the sense of occasion on arrival.
For this concept car (and it is just a concept), the exterior paint colour known as Compass is created using a special Colourstream pigment that reflects a beautiful spectrum of autumnal colours and is both sustainable and environmentally friendly. The pigment is synthetically made using rice husk ash, a harmful bi-product of the rice industry, remanufactured for the EXP 100 GT to reduce the amount that ends up in landfill waste.
New benchmark for luxury interiors
Imperceptible joins between different materials such as wood, leather and wool allow an overall design motif to flow across all these surfaces. The materials are brought together by design, a seamless blend of patterns and forms, textures and colours. Glass flows into metal, into wood and into leather.
Light is core to life and in the EXP 100 GT, it is harvested from the surrounding environment via an innovative glass roof embedded with prisms that collect light and transfer it into the cabin using fibre optics. The use of harvested natural light and synthesised light offers a new approach to enhancing wellness on board.
The Bentley Personal Assistant is a centre piece of the main console and visualised using illuminated crystal. Ambient lighting can also be modified to recreate a specific mood or exterior environment, while additional effects are delivered through projection mapping onto trim panels, such as door pads.
Intelligent, Adaptable Biometric Seating can be configured in three different ways, depending on whether the owner is driving or using autonomous mode. Biometric sensors monitor temperature, passenger position and environmental conditions to deliver the ultimate in comfort, whatever the conditions.
The Air Purification System purifies air supplied into the cabin, with deployable air vents on the rear passenger shelf and static vents on the front passenger panel. The vents undulate giving the appearance that the car is breathing and alive. Meanwhile, carbon dioxide levels in the cabin are constantly monitored to maintain air quality.
As well as capturing exterior scents, Bentley has developed a unique scent for the EXP 100 GT. Created in collaboration with ethically-aware fragrance house 12.29, it builds on the rich heritage of Bentley, incorporating sandalwood and fresh moss.
Performance & Technology
Sustainable and intelligent, a battery electric powertrain, with intelligent power and charge management, will ensure that the EXP 100 GT is as powerful and exciting as its conventional predecessors. Next Generation Traction Drive will enable maximum control via torque vectoring, applying 50% increased power and 35% less mass for more effective cornering. The battery system will power 4 motors generating 1,500 Nm of torque that are projected to enable a 0 – 100 km/h time of less than 2.5 seconds, a top speed of 300 km/h.
Future battery technology is expected to offer 5 times the conventional energy density, and recharging to 80% of capacity should take only 15 minutes. By then, a range of 700 kms is likely to be possible on a fully charged battery pack.
The EXP 100 GT can be optionally autonomous. It will manage the driving experience based on the external environment and passenger well-being. This might include maximising an exhilarating self-drive across mountain roads, or disengaging from a stressful, inner-city commute.
Key to this are a range of features based on passenger well-being and comfort. These include Active Aero Wheels that dynamically adjust to deliver efficiency or maximum performance feel; Intelligent Pirelli Tyres that adapt their contact patches based on weather conditions or driver demand; Adaptable Biometric Seating that adapts to the driver mode, or swivels rearward with the steering wheel retracted away in autonomous mode.
Speaking at the unveiling of the car yesterday, Adrian Hallmark, Bentley Chairman and CEO, said: “Today, on our Centenary, we demonstrate our vision of the future of our Marque, with the Bentley EXP 100 GT – a modern and definitive Grand Tourer designed to demonstrate that the future of luxury mobility is as inspirational and aspirational as the last 100 years. Bentley has, and will continue to enhance and enrich every single journey and the lives of every single person who travels in, or has the honour to be a part of creating our extraordinary products.”
Art of Speed Malaysia returns for its 8th year, bringing in the world of Old-Skool and Kustom Kulture to the masses in ways you can’t even imagine. For this year’s extravaganza happening on 27-28 July 2019, AOS 2019 promises to be bigger and better than ever before with tonnes of giveaways including a custom Suzuki Hayabusa-powered MINI! (more…)
The good folks from the Naza Group has generously contributed one unit of their very popular Kia Cerato to the Skills Training Institute of Youth and Sports (ILKBS) in support of Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) and Malaysian contestant, Mohamad Ridzuan. (more…)
Although many carmakers had prototypes running with hybrid powertrains consisting of an electric motor and a small internal combustion engine, Honda was among the first to mass-produce such cars and popularize them. Its first model, launched in 1999, was the Insight, a futuristic-looking 2-seater model that showed how the hybrid powertrain could reduce fuel consumption as well as emissions.
From then on, Honda kept improving its hybrid technology as well as working hard to make hybrid cars more affordable. Moving hybrid powertrains into mainstream models would boost volumes, enabling economies of scale that would push costs down and make hybrid cars cheaper for even more people to buy. Today, after 20 years, that objective has been pretty much achieved and hybrid powertrains are no longer a novelty or add significantly to the cost (although the battery pack is still a high cost).
Civic Hybrid was first model introduced
In Malaysia, due to the high import duties for completely built-up (CBU) models, hybrid models were expensive. The early ones were estimated to cost close to RM200,000, which would be very unattractive for anyone to consider. However, in 2004, Honda Malaysia made a special effort to introduce the technology in Malaysia and managed to get the price down to RM118,888 for the Civic Hybrid after negotiations with the government. The company also donated two units of the model to the Malaysian police force.
8 years later, Honda Malaysia made the decision to assemble a hybrid model locally at its own factory in Melaka. The timing coincided with the government’s offer to exempt hybrids and electric vehicles from import tax and excise duties between 2011 and 2013. Honda Malaysia chose the Jazz Hybrid which became the first locally-assembled hybrid model to be sold in Malaysia when it was launched in 2012.
RM4,900 less than CBU model
The locally-assembled version of the Jazz Hybrid was priced at RM89,900, insurance included, which was RM4,900 less than the CBU model that had been sold a year earlier. Honda Malaysia’s CEO & MD at that time, Yoichiro Ueno, remarked that it was unusual for a hybrid variant to be cheaper than its conventional equivalent and this only occurred in Malaysia due to the tax exemption.
Yesterday, Honda Malaysia delivered its 10,000th locally-assembled hybrid model to a customer in Kuantan, Pahang. It was a white City Hybrid purchased from Macinda Auto Sdn. Bhd by Saddam Hassan Bin Abdul Salim.
Jazz Hybrid accounts for 60% of sales
According to Honda Malaysia, the Jazz Hybrid accounts for about 60% of the 10,000 units on the road, while the City Hybrid accounts for about 34%. The remaining numbers are made up by the HR-V Hybrid, a recent addition to the line-up.
“This year marks the 15th year since Honda introduced Hybrid technology in Malaysia. Starting with the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology to the intelligent Dual-Clutch Drive (i-DCD), Honda continues to focus on introducing Next Generation Advanced Technology innovations to the Malaysian market,” said Honda Malaysia’s President & COO, Sarly Adle Sarkum.
“I am delighted to witness the positive acceptance of Malaysians towards Honda Hybrid vehicles. Our line-up of Hybrid models cater to the different needs and lifestyle of our customers. We are honoured to have reached this 10,000 units of Honda CKD Hybrid sales which is a significant achievement as we have not only offered advanced Japanese technology but also the fun-to-drive element while maintaining its affordability.” he added.
To locate a showroom in Malaysia to view or test-drive a Honda hybrid model, visit www.honda.com.my.
Click here for other PISTON.MY articles about Honda.
Lokatech Engineering together with EFKON has launched the LokaTAG built-in toll reader. This is Malaysia’s first aftermarket built-in infra-red electronic toll collection system which is 100% compatible with all SmartTAG lane here in Malaysia. (more…)
The Hyundai brand is quickly becoming a name to be considered amongst other major Continental giants of the motoring industry. Thanks to their constant strive to research and develop their models, we are beginning to see more and more of their vehicles on Malaysian roads. We had the opportunity to test out their latest 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe yesterday and here are our first impressions of it. (more…)
These days, in order to close the order books as early as possible – and get customers to pay deposits – carmakers are revealing future products in more detail before launch. That of course puts spy photographers out of business although it also takes the fun out of guessing what the production model will look like.
Yesterday, Aston Martin released a further glimpse of the final production exterior of its upcoming DBS GT Zagato model. Paired with the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation to complete the DBZ Centenary Collection – of which only 19 will be created and are priced at £6 million (about RM31 million) for the pair – these latest renders provide a fresh look at some of the model’s key design features.
The DBS GT Zagato is set for production in 2020, joining each of the 19 DB4 GT Zagato cars set to be created at the Aston Martin Works the rest of this year.
Next evolution in design language
Taking Aston Martin’s most potent series production car – the acclaimed DBS Superleggera – as its starting point, the DBS GT Zagato embodies the next evolution in Aston Martin Zagato design language. Inspired by the voluptuous shapes that previously dressed the original DB4 GT Zagato, designers at the two companies have worked hard to conjure a similarly evocative design language.
At the car’s front, a newly created and unique ‘dynamic’ grille allows the car’s frontal area to transform its appearance. When stationary, each of the 108-individual diamond-shaped carbonfibre pieces remain flush with the car’s beautiful formed exterior. However, upon start-up DBS GT Zagato will appear to flutter into life, as each piece opens to allow the car’s twin-turbo V12 to breathe.
Drama in design
Marek Reichman, Chief Creative Officer, Aston Martin Lagonda said: “This is a car that is not only focused around beauty, but drama too. Our dynamic grille gives us an opportunity to provide the car with two very different identities. When parked, DBS GT Zagato will almost look like it’s resting, but with the rear of the car still appearing muscular and primed for action. Only on start-up will the car truly become alert and ready to perform, delivering both an aural and visual treat for onlookers”.
While the front end will be intricately finished, Aston Martin’s design studio has utilised a camera-operated rearview central mirror, to accommodate the previously shown full length carbonfibre roof. The latest images showcase the final design for this large, single piece of carbonfibre covering where the rear windscreen would typically be placed. Instead, DBS GT Zagato is treated to a pure and simple roofline without any compromises on practicality to the driver.
“Form and function are constantly in battle with one another, but this is a great example of where we have been able to utilise modern technologies to ensure no concession has been made on either side. It was important to me and our teams to deliver something as beautiful as the original DB4 GT Zagato and I feel that we have achieved that with this model and I can’t wait to see it in the metal,” Reichman added.
When Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh retired at the end of last year, he said that he would like to spend his time sharing and passing on his experiences and knowledge gained in over 25 years in the auto industry. He served in various roles in UMW Toyota Motor, including establishing and heading the division which handled the Lexus premium brand. After that, he was appointed President & CEO of Perodua, leading it through a period of significant development and growth.
Now, MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR) will benefit from having Datuk Aminar to provide guidance as the new Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors. He takes over from Dato’ Abdul Rahim bin Abd Halim who has been holding the position since 2007 and is retiring from the Board as Directors.
Industry veteran with long ties to Daihatsu
Dato’ Abdul Rahim too is a veteran in the auto industry and has an association with the Daihatsu brand going back to 1977 when he was in Med-Bumikar-MARA which imported the 1-litre Daihatsu Charade. He remained with the company, moving up as it evolved into the public-listed Med-Bumikar Mara Sdn. Bhd. Group of Companies (the MBM Group) in 1995.
Datuk Aminar will be involved in Perodua again in his new role as MBMR has the second largest shareholding of 20% in the Malaysian carmaker. MBMR also has a 42% share in Hino Motors (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. Besides handling the Daihatsu brand via subsidiary Daihatsu (Malaysia), it is also involved in the retail business as dealer for the Volvo and Volkswagen brands.
MBMR also expanded into automotive parts manufacturing with the acquisition of wheel manufacturer, Oriental Metal Industries (M) Sdn. Bhd.; and Autoliv Hirotako Sdn. Bhd. and Hirotako Acoustics Sdn. Bhd.
Assurance of continuity in leadership
A statement from MBMR regarding the change of leadership gave assurance that, ‘despite the departure of the long-serving and experienced directors and the Chairman, the Board is committed in ensuring continuity and has made several changes in the Board composition to focus on plans and strategies to boost MBMR’s future growth. The restructuring of the committee includes the appointment of the new members in the Audit and Risk Management Committee, Nomination and Remuneration Committee (NRC) and Chairman of MBMR Group.’
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