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BRABUS ADVENTURE has upgrades for Mercedes-Benz G-Class owners who want to make a stronger statement

If owning the latest Mercedes-Benz G-Class is still not enough to ‘make a statement’, BRABUS ADVENTURE has a PowerXtra performance upgrade that not only enhances the macho looks but also increases its off-road capabilities to make a stronger staement.

For the owners of the new G-Class turbodiesel version G 350 d, BRABUS has a new performance upgrade that pushes output to 326 bhp/660 Nm. The power unit engineers developed the module for the straight-six turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct injection. The plug-and-play auxiliary control unit is adapted to the CAN bus of the G-Class.

The claimed driving performance is certainly impressive for a diesel-powered off-roader weighing about 2.5 metric tons: from rest, it can reach 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and then go on to a top speed of 202 km/h.

An all-stainless BRABUS sport exhaust system is of course also available for the G 350 d. It features the unmistakable distinctive mark of BRABUS – two chrome tailpipes in the unusual side-pipe design on each side of the vehicle.

The off-road capabilities of a vehicle depend not only on the powertrain and tyres but also and especially the ground clearance when the terrain gets rougher. That is why the BRABUS suspension engineers developed special height-adjustable BRABUS ADVENTURE sport springs for the electronically-controlled, height-adjustable G-Class suspension. They allow raising the vehicle by up to another 40 mm.

In order to optimize the off-road capabilities further, the fender flares of the BRABUS WIDESTAR widebody tower over 20-inch Monoblock R wheels with maximum-traction off-road 285/55R20 tyres. The pivoted spare wheel carrier with carbonfibre cover holds a fifth wheel of the same specification for emergencies.

Other options that make the G-Model also fit for expeditions are the winch at the front and the wind deflector above the windshield, which with its 4 LED auxiliary headlamps improves illumination of the terrain in the dark. Further useful features are a large, robust luggage rack that spans the entire roof and a ladder at the rear that facilitates loading and unloading.

BRABUS refinement inside
The interior can be refined with exclusive BRABUS fine leather Mastik leather/Alcantara appointments in any conceivable colour and a wide variety of designs. The pictures show one example for customers with the centre sections of the seats and door panels given an arrowhead pattern quilting applied with pinpoint precision.

To create an attractive contrast to the black leather, white piping and decorative seams were incorporated in various places. Tailor-made aluminium components such as pedals, door-lock pins and ergonomically-shaped paddle shifters on the steering wheel are among the options available.

With its long experience and 40-year track record, BRABUS is confident of all the upgrading work and components installed and offers customers a 3-year/100,000-km Tuning Warranty (with terms and conditions applicable).

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Perodua centralises production of parts for old models with RM7 million investment

Perhaps you may not have realised it but many years after a model has ceased to be produced, genuine parts from the manufacturer are still available from its own service centres or authorised parts stockists. Some may be surplus stock but there will also be many parts that continue to be made after production of the model (or generation) had stopped. This ensures that subsequent owners of the model can still get genuine parts which are made to the same high quality standards as when the model was still in production.

It’s a sort of ‘unwritten’ industry practice that parts for a model will continue to be available from the manufacturer for at least 10 years after the end of production. For a market leader like Perodua, which has been producing cars since 1994 and put over 3.7 million vehicles on Malaysian roads, there’s a major responsibility to ensure that the parts remain available. This is especially so in Malaysia where there is still no ‘end-of-life’ policy so cars tend to be used for a long time.

Perodua old models — *Since 1994, Perodua has put over 3.7 million vehicles on Malaysian roads and many are still running.*

One-third of parts demand for old models
Currently, a third of the demand for Perodua parts is for past models such as the first-generation Myvi, Viva, Kelisa and even the Kancil. Besides making the parts at its own factory complex, Perodua has also assigned some parts to Industrial Quality Management (IQM) Sdn Bhd, its supplier since 2002. IQM currently supplies metal stamping, body assembly parts and brake tube components to Perodua. It also began making Viva parts when production of the model ended in 2014 and last year. it began making parts for the second-generation Myvi on a dedicated new line.

Today, Perodua announced that it is centralising parts production for its past models with the launch of a new press stamping machine at its facility within IQM’s factory located in Tanjung Malim, Perak. The move is one of Perodua’s many initiatives with its suppliers to help expand their business and capabilities, bringing them one step closer to becoming global automotive suppliers.

IQM Tg Malim, Perak — *The IQM factory in Tanjung Malim, Perak*

Freeing up space and simplifying operations
At the same time, this frees up much-needed space in Perodua’s complex, simplifies the entire operation, reduces lead time and cost, and makes it easier to monitor under one roof. Perodua also assists IQM in terms of skill transfer and training where past model parts production is concerned.

A RM7 million investment on the machine, including its transportation and installation, was made by Perodua entirely. The 1,600-metric tonne hydraulic press stamping machine will produce body parts such as bonnets, side outer panels, rear quarter panels, fenders, doors and roofs for past Perodua models. The dies required to make the past model parts have also been moved to IQM.

Perodua Viva replacement parts — *The parts made by IQM for the Perodua Viva since 2014.*

Supporting owners of past models
“Perodua’s decision to centralise past model parts production at IQM is 4-pronged. One, we want to continue supporting owners of our past models with quality, quick and affordable parts through our Body & Paint business, because as long as you own a Perodua vehicle – old or new – we will always be there for you,” said Perodua’s President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

“Two, we are committed to empowering all 135 of our Malaysian suppliers, not just by buying from them but helping to develop them via skill and technology transfers. Three, it represents our commitment to the nation and its economy by helping to boost the competitiveness of the Malaysian automotive eco-system,” he added. “Finally, it represents our commitment to ourselves. To keep improving our quality and efficiency so that Perodua can be a better and leaner company moving forward,”

Perodua B&P — *Old models undergoing repairs at a Body & Paint facility after an accident may require body parts which must be properly manufactured to ensure safety and strength.*

With all its current models having over 90% of parts purchased locally, Perodua is naturally the biggest buyer of automotive components in the country. It has spent RM4.5 billion on parts so far this year out of a planned RM5.4 billion for the whole of 2019.

Visit www.perodua.com.my to locate a service centre where you can purchase Perodua Genuine Parts.

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Audi has virtual PC robots working for them

What does it feel like to work with a virtual robot? Well, the employees over at Audi know the experience as they’re currently working hand in hand with virtual PC robots at their workstations. Their job is pretty simple but crucial to get it right every time; entering countless data and creating standardised reports faster and more efficiently without any errors. (more…)

Honda N600 with VFR V4 motorcycle engine wins first-ever Honda Super Tuner Legends Series!

Today’s younger generation of Honda fans love the N-series of kei cars in Japan which drew inspiration from the original N360/600. It was one of Honda’s early 4-wheelers and although tiny enough (about 3 metres long) to fit between the front and rear axle lines of American cars of the 1970s, Honda decided to sell the model in the US market. It was the start of the brand’s automobile sales in that market which would become very successful to the extent that a Honda sedan would be the bestselling car in the market.

The N600 had an all-aluminium air-cooled engine with a 9,000 rpm redline that could take it 130 km/h. It was a simple car, nimble and helped Honda gain the reputation of offering fuel-efficient cars that would be advantageous in later years.

12,000 rpm Honda VFR engine
Recently, a 1972 N600 owned by Stephen Mines won the first-ever Honda Super Tuner Legends Series, which joined the Hot Wheels Legends Tour in 2019 as the exclusive tuner component of the program. Customized over a 5-year period, this particular N600 is powered by a 12,000 rpm Honda VFR 800 cc V4 motorcycle engine in a rear-wheel drive configuration.

Stephen’s customised N600 that won the inaugural Honda Super Tuner Legends Series also boasts a modified Mazda MX-5 Miata suspension system, seats from a Polaris RZR, and modified front and rear bumpers from a 1967-68 Chevy Camaro!

Other finalists for the 2019 Honda Super Tuner Legends Series included a 1978 Honda Civic, 2003 Honda S2000, and 2015 Honda Civic Si. The first-ever Honda Super Tuner Legends Series kicked off in May 2019, as an extension of the second annual Hot Wheels Legends Tour, a national search (in the USA) for a life-size custom car worthy of being immortalized as a Hot Wheels toy car.

Local Honda enthusiasts entered their custom-tuned Hondas in the hopes of being selected as one of four finalists competing for the ‘Honda Super Tuner’ title and the opportunity to have their vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas next month.

Click here for other news and articles about Honda on PISTON.MY

Hyundai Veloster N Performance Concept unveiled at SEMA 2019

The 2019 SEMA Show showcased a lot of very cool cars and concepts. The Hyundai Motor Company Customization Teams decided to bring in the big guns with the show-stopping Hyundai Veloster N Performance Concept aka “The baddest Veloster on the planet”. (more…)

MI-TECH concept shows how future Mitsubishi SUVs could be like

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has a long history of developing SUVs. In fact, together with Isuzu, it could be said that the company was the pioneer in the modern SUV which in the early 1980s was referred to as a ‘dual-purpose vehicle’. The vehicle was the Pajero and along with the Isuzu Trooper which appeared almost at the same time, consumer perception of such vehicles changed from being mere workhorses to alternatives to passenger cars.

With almost 4 decades of experience in producing SUVs, it would only be expected that MMC is now developing such vehicles which will run with electric motors, in line with industry trends for the coming decade. At the Tokyo Motor Show this year, it displayed the MI-TECH concept to give an idea of what a small-sized electrified SUV could be like.

Compact buggy-type vehicle
The design is that of a dynamic buggy-type vehicle with the familiar signature Dynamic Shield that is used for the front of the latest Triton. The new front design concept (which may be how the ‘face’ evolves) uses a satin-plated colour in the centre of the grille, with copper as a secondary colour to accentuate its expressiveness as an electrified vehicle.

T-shaped headlights are embedded in the front end to emphasize a distinguishing outward appearance. On the lower bumper, an aluminium skidplate is placed on both sides to protect the body while the centre section has an air intake.

On the sides, the highly raised over-fenders and large diameter tyres project a high level of mobility, SUV power, as well as the stability to thoroughly grip the terrain. The body radiates grandeur and sharpness with a design reminiscent of a machined metal ingot, while the use of side-steps on the carved sides balances utility with design.

The rear end design is dominated by a large and bold hexagon shape, again exuding the impression of being machined from solid metal ingot to emphasize robustness and strength. The T-shaped tail lamp shared the same design pattern used on the front end, as do the rear bumpers.

Functional cockpit with infographics
Inside, a horizontal instrument panel and clean, functional design make operating the MI-TECH easier. Keyboard-shaped switches are positioned on a centre console, and the front handgrip also functions as a hand pad to make the switches easy to operate. Functions are presented in a straightforward manner, easy to understand just by seeing them and with a reassuring feel when pressed.

The horizontal theme is further accentuated by copper lines added on the instrument panel and steering wheel. For extra peace of mind, the front windscreen presents all the relevant information in graphics such as vehicle behaviour, terrain recognition and optimal route guidance.

PHEV powertrain of the future
The power generator in the new PHEV drivetrain is a lightweight, compact gas turbine engine-generator in place of the traditional petrol engine. The gas turbine engine-generator has a powerful output for its size and weight with the added benefit of flexibility to run on a variety of fuels such as diesel, kerosene and alcohol which can be selected depending on the regions.

Building on its PHEV powertrain experience, MMC has evolved its Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to operate with a Quad Motor 4WD System with front and rear Dual-Motor Active Yaw Control (AYC) units. Making the brake calipers electric has also allows for high response, high accuracy control of drive and braking force of the 4 wheels while delivering a drastic improvement in turning and traction performance.

When driving off-road and 2 of the wheels lose traction, the ability to transmit the optimal driving force to all 4 wheels makes it possible to transmit force to the 2 wheels still on the ground and keep driving. It is possible to execute 180-degree spins by counter-rotating the left and right wheels.

The MI-TECH also comes equipped with a Human Machine Interface (HMI) which displays varying information detected through sensing technology including advanced optical sensors on an augmented reality (AR) windscreen. With vehicle, road, and surrounding traffic conditions shown on the AR glass, the driver can make accurate decisions even in poor visibility without taking his eyes away from the view ahead.

Visit www.mitsubishi=motors.com.my to know more about the SUV models you can buy in Malaysia today.

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TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s Ott Tänak takes historic first title with second place finish in Rally de España

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team driver Ott Tänak and his co-driver Martin Järveoja have made history by securing their first FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) titles with a second place finish on Rally de Espana, the 13^th round of the 2019 WRC. The event was won by Thierry Neuville/Nicolas Gilsoul in Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC.

Tänak becomes only the third different driver to claim the WRC crown since 2004, while he and Järveoja are the first Estonians to ever achieve the feat. It is the fifth occasion that a Toyota driver has won the WRC Drivers’ title, and the first time since Didier Auriol triumphed in 1994.

Having won six of the 12 rallies so far, Tänak arrived at the second last round of the season with a 28-point advantage in the championship. In the series’ only true mixed-surface event, Tänak was fifth overall following the opening day on gravel, before 4 consecutive stage wins on asphalt on Saturday promoted him up into third place.

On the final day, he opened up a comfortable advantage with the Toyota Yaris WRC over the driver behind. But it was not easy-going and he still needed to push hard on the rally-ending Power Stage to secure the title. In an incredible run over the 20.72-km stage, he was 3.6 seconds faster than anyone to not only take the full 5 bonus points, but also grab second place overall on the rally.

Jari-Matti Latvala finished in fifth position, scoring important points for the Manufacturers’ Championship, which Toyota remains in with a chance of winning at the final round in Australia on November 14 as the gap is 18 points from the leader. After retiring on Saturday morning following a crash, Kris Meeke returned to action on Sunday under restart rules.

Sending his congratulations to the duo, Akio Toyota, Toyota’s President and the driving force behind the company’s greater motorsport orientation, said: “Last year in Rally Finland, I saw so many Estonian fans waving Estonian flags to cheer on Ott and Martin. They said the flags were not a weight on their shoulders. Instead, they felt the strong support from all the fans to achieve their best. I’m glad that our Yaris WRC competed with such a strong wave of support from our Estonian friends and supporters, and we rode the wave to the championship title!”

Carlos Sainz 1990 — Carlos Sainz in the Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165 on the way to a WRC Driver’s title in 1990.

Toyota’s’ World Rally Champions
1990: Carlos Sainz (Toyota Celica GT-Four ST165)
1992: Carlos Sainz (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)
1993: Juha Kankkunen (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)
1994: Didier Auriol (Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD ST185)
2019: Ott Tänak (Toyota Yaris WRC)

Lamborghini wants to develop carbon fibre in space?

We all know when it comes to exotic supercars like Lamborghini, the usage of rare composite materials comes to mind (especially our favourite model, the Sesto Elemento). To further amp up their research and technology for the usage of carbon fibre, they’re willing to go do that where no man has done before; SPACE. (more…)

2020 Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo is an aerodynamic masterpiece

The world of GT racing championship is packed with some of the world’s best-looking cars and for the 2020 season, Ferrari is bringing in a new version of their 488 GT3 to the fight in the form of the 2020 Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo. So, what has Ferrari done to further improve arguably one of their most successful cars in racing history? (more…)

F1 (Round 18) – 2019 Mexican Grand Prix Results and Highlights

♦ Lewis Hamilton’s win in Mexico still does not confirm his sixth world title, and he will have to wait till the next round in Texas. His closest rival is his team mate, Valtteri Bottas who is now 74 points behind.

♦ Ferrari started off with an unexpected advantage of pole position for Charles Leclerc when Max Verstappen lost his pole position because he ignored warning flags. However, the Italian team again lost that advantage although Sebastian Vettel’s tyre strategy worked out well in the end.

♦ Daniil Kvyat finished 9th overall but was dropped to 11th when the official results came out. The Toro Rosso driver was given a 10-second post-race time penalty for his last lap incident with Renault’s Nico Hulkenberg. The change in position also lost him and his team 2 points.

♦ Alexander Albon put in a good performance in Mexico, rising as high as third in the running, but the 2-stop strategy he had to use prevented him from pursuing the Mercedes-AMG drivers.

♦ The chances of Hamilton winning in Texas are pretty good as he has won 5 races there over the past 7 years. After collecting another world title, he can decide if he wants to move to Ferrari, Formula E, become an actor (he revealed that he was approached to star in Top Gun 2), or try to save the world in other ways.