♦ The strong typhoon forced qualifying to be postponed to raceday and both Ferrari’s were able to take the front row of the starting grid.
♦ With Valtteri Bottas winning in Japan, the 2019 F1 Constructors Championship is secured by the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Motorsport team. The sixth consecutive world championship double is a new Formula 1 record.
♦ Although the two Ferraris had the front row on the starting grid, the team lost its advantage when the lights went green as Sebastian Vettel fumbled his start. However, the stewards did not penalise him for what appeared to be a ‘jump start’. Charles Leclerc was also slow off the line and Bottas surged forward, taking advantage of the situation.
♦ Max Verstappen’s race was short after his car was hit by Leclerc’s early in the race. Although both cars were damaged, the Red Bull was worse off and Verstappen was forced to retire.
♦ It was Alexander Albon’s first time at Suzuka and the 4th place is the best he has achieved in his career to date, one position better than in Belgium and Russia.
♦ A Mercedes-AMG driver will win the title again but it’s still not Lewis Hamilton’s for sure. The round in Mexico will be a tense one as Bottas still has an outside chance, depending on the outcome.
It used to be that pick-up trucks would have a model cycle of at least 10 years – double that of passenger cars. And during that considerable length of time in the market, distributors would have to sustain interest by having limited editions periodically to refresh the looks, besides adding extra features. Today, though, competition is tough and 10 years is a bit long so Isuzu Motors has come out with an all-new generation of its popular D-MAX truck after 8 years.
To go on sale from October 19, the new D-MAX has received extensive change guided by the development concept of ‘Efficient and Robust’. This development concept was formulated to offer a vehicle that delivers higher fuel efficiency and safety while responding to various usage conditions and purposes in over 100 countries where the 1-ton truck is sold.
Versatility has made it very popular
The D-MAX has been especially popular in Thailand, where Isuzu has its global production hub (which supplies CKD kits to its subsidiary plant in Pekan, Malaysia, for local assembly). The popularity has been due to not only being suitable for personal use but also for business use. The durability of the powertrain has also been a strong factor in making Isuzu a top brand in Thailand.
It’s hard for a truck to look significantly different but Isuzu’s designers have given the new model a more distinctive look with a larger grille that is orientated more vertically. Aiming to present the new D-MAX as ‘Bold, Emotional and Smart’, the designers have given the chunky exterior profile with a wedge body shape a more powerful, swishing silhouette than ever before. A neatly integrated step bumper is mounted on the rear, giving an all-new, sophisticated look.
In the headlamps, bi-led projectors combined with stylish signature lamps are installed giving an eager, intense look. At the rear, the lamps have dual LED edge lights. Together, these new light designs contribute to a unique, stylish appearance front and rear.
Lean, rational assembly structure and extensive use of high-tensile steel plates have moderated the overall vehicle weight but the bodywork is still tough and rigidity is 20% greater. Taking note of the need to resist corrosion as the vehicle is used in wet conditions in markets like Thailand, anti-corrosion ability is said to be greatly improved. The new D-MAX can cross a river that is 800 mm deep as well. Moreover, it’s designed in such a way that its electrical architecture flexibly accommodates evolution in security and connected technologies.
Front and rear suspension
Interior with ‘first-class appearance’
The revised dashboard has a 9-inch display mounted in the centre of a horizontally-flowing form with sharp and rich surface textures. The interior has a ‘first-class appearance’ with the introduction of a floor console which is now taller and wider. Also, it is designed to enfold the driver and passenger as if they were in a cockpit of an airplane. Low-rebound MDI polyurethane is used for front seat cushions to reduce fatigue that long-distance drivers have to endure.
The design of a rear seat in the crew cab is optimized to improve ride comfort. To allow for easy getting in/out, an opening of the B-pillar is shifted forward and assist grip is added.
Detailed attention is paid to its interior components having embossed and texturized surfaces to achieve a high-end, sporty look. For the workhorse applications, there’s a simple and practically designed instrument panel and durable door trim.
Low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions
Isuzu has specialised in diesel engines for decades and for the new D-MAX, there’s a newly developed 4JJ3 engine (based on the reliable 3-litre 4JJ1 diesel engine). The combined effects of 250 MPa high injection pressure, electronically-controlled VSG turbocharger, heat-insulating coating on the piston, double-scissors gear, etc. has yielded the engine featuring high power, low fuel consumption and low noise. The 1.9-litre RZ4E engine (recently introduced in Malaysia) has received some enhancements.
A pull-ring shift lever is used for the manual transmission to make it easier for the driver to reverse the vehicle, and drive feel is better and more engaging. As for the automatic transmission developed for RZ4E engine, a downsized torque converter and lock-up clutch integrated with a wide-angle damper provide improvements in fuel consumption and response.
A single propeller shaft made of aluminium is now installed, giving a significant weight reduction. There’s also an electromagnetic rear differential lock to use in difficult conditions. With an enhanced transfer of power to the wheels, Isuzu says it now takes shorter time to switch between 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive as well as between High and Low ranges.
The new D-MAX’s front hub bearing is now maintenance-free as it is part of unit bearing. Maintenance schedules for other items are extended, and the maintenance frequency and costs are greatly reduced (depending on the market).
Better protection for occupants with up to 6 airbags, and active safety systems like Blind Spot Monitoring (below).
EE Architecture for new CASE era
The EE architecture is configured using the central gateway in order to pave the way to the new CASE era. Technologies designed to optimize convenience and comfort are extensively employed such as keyless entry, infotainment, lights, wipers, etc.
The new generation of the D-MAX will most likely be available in Malaysia some time next year. Because Isuzu assembles the model locally, some time is needed to prepare for assembly and also to coordinate with local parts suppliers.
On October 24, Volkswagen will have the attention of the motoring world when it unveils the 8th generation of the Golf. The event will take place at its home city in Germany, Wolfsburg. Prior to the event in 12 days, the carmaker has released these sketches as teasers.
One of the bestselling cars for decades, the Golf has evolved continuously from one generation to the next, meeting the changes in society and demands of consumers. For the new generation, Volkswagen says there will be more digitalisation and connectivity than ever before, packed with innovations and sporting a highly expressive design.
Evolution of the ‘face’ of the Golf through eight generations.
New range of efficient engines
In the new model, the strengths that have made the Golf a worldwide bestseller will be complemented by a new range of efficient engines (which will undoubtedly include hybrids). Enhanced suspension technology will provide a boost in terms of agility.
From the sketch, it can be seen that the exterior design is more dynamic – and yet instantly recognisable as a Golf from all sides. On the inside, fresh colours and fabrics define the look of the new model as well as a new digital cockpit.
How the dashboard of the Golf has changed since the first generation launched in 1974.More digitisation for the instrument panel of the Golf Mk.8
Will it be assembled in Malaysia?
Following its debut, the first deliveries of the new Golf Mk.8 will commence in December. Now that the assembly facility in Pekan, Pahang, has the MQB platform for the Tiguan, it would be easier to put the Golf Mk.8 on the line as well, allowing a more competitive price. This could then allow the Malaysian facility to become a regional production hub for the model to be distributed using AFTA privileges. However, we have heard that although Volkswagen has been keen to export cars, certain duty issues have yet to be sorted out.
Government support for Malaysian carmakers has not been confined to providing various forms of funding and incentives as the government, being the country’s largest fleet owner, has also purchased thousands of vehicles from Perodua and Proton over the years.
First government agency to use Aruz
The most recent example was the purchase of 55 units of the Perodua Aruz by the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP). This is the first fleet deal for the 7-seater SUV and KPDNHEP is also the first government agency to purchase the Aruz.
“We thank KPDNHEP very much for choosing the Perodua Aruz and in doing so, supporting the Malaysian automotive supply eco-system, as over 90% of the Aruz’s components are locally sourced. The same is true of all our current models,” Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.
Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd MD, Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin (left) witnessing a symbolic key hand-over by Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) Secretary-General, Datuk Muez Abd Aziz (centre) to KPDNHEP Director of Enforcement, Dato’ Iskandar Halim Sulaiman (right).
Explaining how the Aruz would be beneficial to the operations of the ministry’s enforcement officers, Dato’ Zainal said: “We understand KPDNHEP’s enforcement officers often take long road journeys in the course of duty. The Perodua Aruz is durable, dependable, spacious, practical, easy to drive and due to its many seating configurations, very versatile. Not forgetting conveniences such as the built-in toll card reader, integrated dash cam, HDMI, Smart Link, Bluetooth and navigation.”
Safe and fuel-efficient
The occupants will also be well protected with the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) 2.0, 6 airbags and Vehicle Stability Control, which have contributed to the Aruz being rated the maximum of 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP.
“It is also an Energy-Efficient Vehicle (EEV) with a best-in-class rated fuel efficiency of 15.6 kms/litre, contributing to low running costs,” he said, adding that over 23,000 units have already been delivered out of over 33,000 bookings received to date since its launch in January.
To locate a showroom to view or test-drive the Aruz, visit www.perodua.com.my.
BHPetrol, the Malaysian petroleum brand, has been tirelessly working on efforts to raise road safety awareness among primary schoolchildren for some time now. And in 2019, for the tenth consecutive year, BHPetrol has spread the interest and focus of the local community in the centre of Kuala Lumpur.
This year’s awareness programme was held in SK Kementah Kuala Lumpur where over 1,000 students participated in various road safety activities which complements the current road safety education curriculum taught in schools.
Part of BHPetrol’s Corporate Social Responsibility
The programme, which was carried out recently, is part of BHPetrol’s Corporate Social Responsibility and focuses primarily on the importance of being visible on the road. The idea behind the programme originated in 2010, when BHPetrol felt that there was very little awareness on road safety initiatives for young children particularly in the non-urban areas.
Since then, the Cerah Ceria programme has travelled extensively within Peninsular Malaysia to schools in Sabak Bernam, Hulu Langat, Pelabuhan Klang, Muar, Temerloh, and the latest in Kementah Kem Kuala Lumpur. Thousands of primary schoolchildren have benefitted from the programme.
Focus on being visible
The focus on visibility stems from the fact that young children are physically small and not easily visible to drivers, in particular, drivers of huge vehicles such as petroleum tankers. The program stresses the importance of seeing and being seen as well as equipping children with essential road safety skills and knowledge.
Aptly named ‘Cerah Ceria Bersama BHPetrol’, the program uses the firefly as its road safety icon to convey to children and adults signifying that despite its size, it is bright and visible from afar.
Practicing safe behaviour on the road
All 9 activities for children help them to understand the importance of being visible and practicing safe behaviour on the road. Some of the activities include stopping distance of vehicles, 5 steps to cross safely, physical limitations, wearing bright clothing and cycling safely. BHPetrol employees were involved in the activities.
Every year, as part of the programme, a short road safety talk is also given by the local district Traffic Police or by the road safety department. This year, Azharul Izwan Puaadi, the Federal Territory Director of Road Safety Department, addressed the students on the importance of being safe on the roads and following traffic rules.
The event was also attended by Fardzi Shah Razali, General Manager, Operations and HSSE of Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, and Leftenan Kolonel Azizul bin Abdul Kadir, Kem Kementah Commanding Officer.
“Over the last 10 years, we have continuously inculcated the importance of safety amongst the schoolchildren through Cerah Ceria Bersama BHPetrol programme. We hope the activities organized have increased the students’ understanding to become more cautious towards their safety at all times,“ said Encik Fardzi Shah Razali.
Essential part of the children’s learning
The programme has been warmly received as an essential part of the children’s learning and educational process. The annual programme dedicated to school children has been creating a lasting impression in the minds of young students, parents and teachers.
BHPetrol firmly believes that the programme develops these young minds to be ever more conscientious in practicing safe behaviour on the road which may contribute significantly towards reducing road deaths and injuries among primary schoolchildren.
As some of you may already know, the Drive 4 Paul Malaysia ‘Tribute to Paul’ car show was held at Bandar Malaysia earlier today where hundreds of cars gathered to pay tribute to one of Hollywood’s finest stars, the late Paul Walker aka “Brian O’Conner” from the Fast & Furious movie franchise. (more…)
RM50 million will be allocated for the repair and maintenance of roads leading to Port Klang so as to make it a regional maritime centre and a cargo logistic hub. The Transport Ministry is also conducting a feasibility study for a Klang Logistic Corridor which will be a new logistic highway to connect Northport, Westport and existing highways. Together with another proposal for a Serendah-Port Klang rail bypass, the two projects are expected to cost RM8.3 billion.RM25 million will be allocated to set up contestable matching grant fund to support more pilot projects on digital applications such as autonomous vehicles, drone delivery, and blockchain technology.Average toll charges will be reduced by 18% on all PLUS highways, saving users up to RM1.13 billion in 2020, and a total of RM43 billion until 2038 when the concession expires. PLUS-managed highways include the North-South Expressway (NSE), New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), Seremban-Port Dickson Expressway (SPDH), North-South Expressway Central Link (ELITE), Malaysia-Singapore Second Link Highway (Linkedua), the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE), East-Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2), and the Penang Bridge.Additionally, 4 Klang Valley highways acquired by the government will see a 30% drop in toll fares during non-peak hours (but likely to be higher during peak hours). The highways are Shah Alam Highway (KESAS), Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP), Sprint Expressway (SPRINT), and SMART Tunnel (SMART). These four highways will not have toll charges from midnight until dawn.The toll rate for the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge or Second Penang bridge will be reduced to RM7 from RM8.50 (for Class 1 vehicles) from January 1, 2020. This will make the rate similar to the first Penang Bridge. Down south, RM85 million will be allocated to address the congestion problem at the Johor Bahru Causeway and Second Link.The government is firm on moving to B20 biodiesel for the transportation sector at the end of 2020. This will have a positive impact on the oil palm industry as the expected volume is 500,000 tonnes a year.The petrol subsidy programme (PSP) was announced recently and will be implemented from January 2020. Eligible recipients are those registered for BSH and they will get RM30 per month for car owners and RM12 per month for motorcycle owners. The Finance Minister also mentioned a second group which will get a ‘Kad95’ that entitled them to a subsidy on RON95 petrol at 30 sen less per litre (maximum 100 litres/month for cars, 40 litres/month for motorcycles). Details of ‘Kad95’ and criteria for qualification are not known. The fuel subsidy will only be made available when the market price (based on the APM) for RON95 petrol rises above RM2.08/litre.Up to RM1 billion will be spent to improve roads around the country; of this, RM326 million will be used in Sabah and RM224 million for Sarawak. The Pan Borneo Highway project is still continuing but the project costs RM1.2 billion less due to cost-savings.The government will spend RM450 million on the purchase of 500 electric buses for public transport use in cities. There are already 10 electric buses, each costing RM2 million, which have been going around Putrajaya for the past few years.RM20 million will be allocated for the development of eSports, a growing international activity. UMW Toyota Motor was the first local car company to become involved in eSports with its GR Velocity eSports Championship in 2018 and a second season in 2019.
Smartphone maker OnePlus has collaborated with McLaren to produce the very beautiful OnePlus 7T McLaren Edition smartphone. For those looking for a device that’s both beautiful and high performance, you can try to get your hands on one of the McLaren inspired bad boys. (more…)
