In 2014, Porsche introduced ‘Porsche Drive’ a premium car rental service concept in Germany which offers the rental of Porsche models for short periods. The concept has to date been introduced in France, Switzerland and North America as well.
This month, Porsche Drive is launched in the first Asian location – Tokyo, Japan. The service in Japan will be located in Toranomon Hills in Minato, which is in the southern centre of the city. It will provide a casual way to drive a Porsche for people who work and live in the Toranomon Hills and Atago Green Hills areas, and for inbound tourists at Andaz Tokyo.
The unique package pricing includes a minimum of 4 hours rental time and a maximum of 2 nights and 2 days. Porsche believes it meets the needs of those who would like to casually experience its cars in a flexible way.
Mobility services increasingly popular
By expanding its worldwide range of mobility services, Porsche is responding to changing customer preferences and the trend towards digital, flexible and individual choice. This includes the sportscar manufacturer making vehicles available for shorter periods of time.
In the US, for example, Porsche is offering ‘Porsche Passport’ (a subscription model) where customers pay a monthly fee for access to a vehicle pool and can replace the vehicles as often as they like. In addition, Porsche has launched ‘Porsche Host’ in the US market together with car-sharing platform provider Turo. In Germany, ‘Porsche InFlow’ is an offering allowing short-term and flexible use of used vehicles.
As the owners of the all-new Volkswagen Golf 8 receive their cars, they will be pleasantly surprised to learn either from the sales representative or read in the manual that the standard inspection service interval has been doubled to 24 months.
However, for the all-electric ID range, maintenance requirements will be different but Volkswagen will only release information at launch time.
For selected markets only
Referring to the change as a ‘new maintenance concept’, the extended interval is offered to customers in Europe, South Korea, Japan and New Zealand. Following the Golf 8, other models will also have extended service intervals in the course of 2020.
The all-new Golf 8
“The high quality of our vehicles allows us to double the inspection service interval in Europe to 24 months. We are therefore one of the few volume brands to call our customers into the workshops less frequently. In addition, our new standard inspection service is to replace the previous service. This way, we are considerably simplifying the maintenance program and making it more transparent for our customers and partners,” said Achim Schaible, Head of the After Sales & Dealer Network of the Volkswagen brand.
The new standard inspection replaces the previous format of large and small inspection. The standardized content of maintenance and new intervals allow more reliable and more transparent price information, which has a considerable impact on perceived service quality and therefore customer satisfaction.
Other markets
Volkswagen explains that, in other markets, more severe operating conditions such as heat or dust will still require annual servicing of vehicles. Therefore, for now, whatever service intervals are specified by distributors will be maintained. In Malaysia, an interval of 12 months or 15,000 kms is specified by Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia for current models.
For the Malaysian market, service intervals will be maintained at the current 12 months or maximum of 15,000 kms.
Motorists would usually welcome extended service intervals as it means having to go to the service centre less. A longer service interval also helps reduce motoring costs but the conditions must be adhered to, eg the engine oil used must be what is specified by the manufacturer. The oil would have to be able to provide proper lubrication and protection for up to 12 months.
While increasing intervals are good, there can also be a downside. Just as the human body can do with regular check-ups to detect any health issues early and address them, a car would also need regular check-ups to ensure that everything is running properly. Of course, with many electronic monitoring systems present, the driver is likely to be alerted if something is malfunctioning. There are even sensors to keep an eye on tyre pressures and if one tyre is under-inflated, the driver will be alerted.
There may come a day when servicing is no longer required at all and the bonnet can be ‘sealed’. However, with the transition to electric vehicles, servicing requirements will be different again and at present, it is expected that they will definitely be less than for vehicles with internal combustion engines.
Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about aftersales services available in Malaysia.
The inaugural Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards 2019 saw Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd receiving an award for introducing next-generation lubricant solutions for its business-to-business (B2B) customers that incorporate artificial intelligence (AI), mobile applications and wearable technology.
Organised by Charlton Media Group of Singapore, the Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards recognise exceptional companies from across different industries in Malaysia that have embarked on innovative technology-driven initiatives that positively impacted their businesses.
Shell Lubricants General Manager for Malaysia and Singapore, Baljit Singh, said that the awards recognised Shell’s continued technology leadership in lubricants. “As the top lubricants supplier in the world for the past 13 consecutive years, Shell has been at the forefront of research and development that includes deploying the latest technology to create enhanced products and services that deliver tangible benefits and long-term value to businesses,” he said.
The award-winning initiatives Shell LubeChat – Shell’s online AI-powered chatbot operates 24 hours with machine-learning capabilities that provide customers with accurate solutions in a timely manner to make faster, better-informed decisions regarding the right lubricant for every type of equipment or application. Its customer support capabilities range from basic enquiries to troubleshooting and solution-driven conversations. It even provides technical documents for reference, an initiative taken by Shell to communicate more efficiently with its customers.
Shell LubeChat
Shell LubeAnalyst – Available in a convenient mobile application, this data-driven diagnostic tool hosts millions of data points that date back to 30 years and cover more than 700,000 components on its cloud-hosted database. Shell LubeAnalyst has proven to be invaluable in helping determine the ‘health’ of both lubricants and equipment to avoid unplanned downtime. The mobile application makes it easier to register oil samples and access necessary information. Customers can submit samples using QR codes from virtually any location, thereby eliminating manual, paper-based processes and minimising risks of human error. This service has enabled Shell industrial lubricants customers to reduce total costs of ownership of heavy machinery.
Shell Wearable Technology – Shell’s introduction of wearable technology enables its technical field personnel to conduct on-site equipment inspection and communicate remotely in real-time with other Shell technical experts in Malaysia and other parts of the world for accurate diagnosis and prompt resolution. The wearable headset is equipped with a camera capable of capturing still images and projecting `live’ video feed, a microphone and a high-resolution micro-display screen. It is completely hands-free, voice-activated and rated for use in restricted zones where potentially hazardous materials are present.
25 years after creating a new segment – the modern SUV – almost overnight, the Toyota RAV4 has been voted as Japan Car of the Year 2019-2020. Announced this afternoon, the fifth generation of the popular SUV beat 9 other finalists in the annual event.
The jury this year consisted of 60 members, largely made up of motoring journalists based in Japan.
According to jury for the Japan Car of the Year (COTY), the RAV4 meets consumer needs of today as an SUV of the new era. In addition, the reasonable price of the Data Communication Module (a dedicated communication device) was commended.
“The combination of powertrains such as 3 types of AWD systems and the latest platform is both comfortable and enjoyable. The luggage space is wide and easy to use,” the jury’s statement added.
Other models which received special awards were the 7th generation BMW 3-Series, Nissan Skyline, Jeep Wrangler and Nissan DAYS/Mitsubishi eK CROSS/eK WAGON.
The Japan COTY event began in 1980 and between 1994 and 2014, non-Japanese models were in a separate category of Japan Import Car of the Year. From 2014 onwards, however, the organizers decided to stop having two categories and the first non-Japanese model to win the overall award was the Volkswagen Golf in 2014.
The Soarer was the first Toyota model to win a Japan Car of the Year Award in 1981-1982. With the latest award, Japan’s No.1 carmaker has won 10 times (including the Lexus LS430 in 2006-2007).
After being approved for limited production, work began on the production version of the Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign which was shown in June last year. While Italdesign, which has a history that goes pack as far as 1968, developed and engineered the model, Nissan’s design centres in the UK and California worked on the exterior and interior designs.
“Designers dream of creating from a blank canvas, but with GT-R, it is a canvas that has been shaped by an adventurous history, a heart powered by NISMO, and a soul reflecting 50 years of dreams of engineers, designers, artisans, developers, racers and leaders,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s Senior Vice-President of Global Design. “The best of Japan and Italy combined with help from our California and London studios are painting on the best canvas any designer can possibly have!”
All images show rendering of the production version of the Nissan GT-R50 by Italdesign
The production version will go on display at the Geneva Motor Show in March next year and the first customers should receive their cars before the end of 2020. Customer demand has been strong, with a significant number of deposits already taken based on a starting price of 990,000 euros (equivalent to RM4.58 million) for each o the 50 cars that will be produced. Each unit can be personalised to the customer’s requirements.
Meanwhile, fans can see the prototype model at the 2019 NISMO Festival which is on this Sunday. It will subsequently be shown at Nissan Crossing in Tokyo’s Ginza district for the rest of the month, and at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2020.
“Our customers have relished the personalized experience provided by Italdesign, who have a long tradition in the exclusive field of ultra-rare, bespoke high-performance vehicles,” said Bob Laishley, Global Sports Car Program Director at Nissan. “Their experience with the GT-R50 has been incredible and I can say first-hand that each car will certainly be a standalone masterpiece.”
Powering each GT-R50 by Italdesign is a NISMO-tuned 720 ps/780 Nm hand-built 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V6 (VR38DETT). The engine draws on Nissan extensive GT3 competition experience and knowledge. The E-TS ATTESA all-wheel drive system will deliver power to all four 21-inch wheels. The suspension will be revised with the Bilstein DampTronic system and an upgraded Brembo braking system will be installed for stronger stopping power.
At the time of writing, Nissan says that there are still ‘a limited number of reservations’ left so if you want one, you need to contact Italdesign quickly. The address for e-mail is aporta.gtr50@italdesign.com.
The GVE Asia Group joins the Volkswagen dealership network in Malaysia as a new business partner of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM). The group has experience in retailing luxury and premium models and operates used car dealerships, sales and aftersales and other automotive related services.
It has acquired the existing Volkswagen Sg. Besi outlet in Kuala Lumpur which was previously operated by Wearnes as its first entry into the Volkswagen network. The outlet is a full-fledged 3S dealership so Volkswagen owners can get everything they need for their vehicles at one location.
With built-up area of over 75,181 sq. ft. on two floors, the showroom can display up to 9 vehicles. The aftersales facilities in accordance with Volkswagen’s global standards and customers can relax in a comfortable waiting lounge complete with cable TV, Wi-Fi and cafe.
“We thank Wearnes for being part of the Volkswagen family. We’ve seen many years of growth, and their service to the brand has been invaluable,” said Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM. “At the same time, it gives me great pleasure to welcome GVE Asia Group into the network. I look forward to a fruitful partnership as we continue to build the Volkswagen brand together and to meet the needs of our customers.”
To know more about Volkswagen products and services or to locate other authorised dealerships in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.
It’s that time of the year when the festivities to celebrate the end of the year start. If it was a good year for you, then there’s reason to celebrate and if it was not good, there’s also reason to celebrate because it’s going to end, and a new year is just around the corner.
At Lexus showrooms throughout Malaysia, there’s definitely a festive mood with ‘UNWRAP AMAZING’, an event to be held from 10 am to 4 pm this weekend (December 7, except Lexus Centre Ipoh which will be on December 14).
A special Christmas doorgift is presented to all visitors to the Lexus Centres and it will certainly set them in the mood to UNWRAP AMAZING. Within the showroom, Amazing Experiences await them with the liberal use of high-tech digital innovation and technology to elevate all the five senses, creating the unparalleled Lexus experience.
For those who want to understand why Lexus vehicles have been so highly regarded all over the world, the best way to do so will be to go for a test-drive. Whether they have a preference for a SUV, sedan or sporty coupe, there’s a Lexus model available to experience. As a token of appreciation, guests will receive a gift after their test-drive.
All Lexus models have the latest Active Safety technology with the Lexus Safety System, keeping occupants safe on all journeys. There are systems to automatically brake the car in an emergency, alert the driver when the car deviates out of its lane, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and of course, airbags all around the cabin to give added protection during accidents.
At Lexus Mutiara Damansara in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, there will also be additional festive activities. Visitors can join in the Ginger House-Making workshop and enjoy special performances by Wilson Jong & Thomas Phillip Musical at various times of the day.
The renowned standards of Lexus are inspired by the Japanese tradition of omotenashi (hospitality) which every visitor to any Lexus centre will experience, right from the time he or she enters the refined environment of the showroom. Whether going for a test-drive or enjoying a cup of coffee from Café Richard, customers are always at the centre of the Lexus Amazing Experience.
While at the showroom, visitors can also find out more about Lexus Malaysia’s Corporate Privilege Programme. The programme is available with the purchase of any new Lexus model, from the luxurious ES to the RX SUV that blends practicality and prestige, to the NX that pushes the boundaries of a crossover. Qualified customers can receive discounts and free service packages along with enjoying a 5-star lifestyle marked by Amazing Experiences.
For the locations of Lexus Centres in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
Quill Automobiles, Ingress Auto and Wheelcorp Premium, which represent the BMW and MINI brands in the Klang Valley, will transform The Marquee at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre into the largest BMW and MINI dealership in the city centre this weekend (December 6 – 8). Billed as ‘a one-of-a-kind event’, the BMW Year-End Expo 2019 will have over 90 vehicles on display from both brands from 10 am to 7 pm each day.
As would be expected, the dealers will have special offers for those who want to shop for a new car to have in the porch or garage this Christmas or for the new year. The offers will include a special 6 Years and 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty programme; special financing rates from 0.33% (terms and conditions apply); and complimentary one-year BMW Comprehensive Motor Insurance.
They will also be able to find out about BMW M Performance Parts which enhance the sportiness of a BMW and of course, check out the lifestyle items from BMW and MINI.
Ford Motor Company has long been making car parts from discarded materials that can be recycled. In one example, old jeans were used as sound insulation material for the first generation of the Focus. Besides plastic bottles, recycled resins are used for various other parts, supporting the company’s sustainability agenda.
Now, working with McDonald’s in the USA, coffee beans will also be used in vehicle parts such as headlamp housings. Every year, gigantic quantities of coffee chaff – the dried skin of the bean – naturally comes off during the roasting process. Together, Ford and McDonald’s can use a significant portion of that material rather than just throw it away.
The companies found that chaff can be converted into a durable material to reinforce certain vehicle parts. By heating the chaff to high temperatures under low oxygen, mixing it with plastic and other additives and turning it into pellets, the material can be formed into various shapes. . This is the first time Ford has used coffee bean skins to convert into selected vehicle parts.
The chaff composite meets the quality specifications for parts like headlamp housings and other interior and under-bonnet components. The resulting components can be about 20% lighter and require up to 25% less energy during the molding process. Heat properties of the chaff component are significantly better than the currently used material, according to Ford.
McDonald’s is expected to send a significant portion of its coffee chaff in North America to Ford to be incorporated into vehicle parts. This will help Ford as it progresses toward a goal of using recycled and renewable plastics in vehicles globally, with an increasing range of sustainable materials.
“McDonald’s commitment to innovation was impressive to us and matched our own forward-thinking vision and action for sustainability,” said Debbie Mielewski, Ford senior technical leader, sustainability and emerging materials research team. “This has been a priority for Ford for over 20 years, and this is an example of jump starting the closed-loop economy, where different industries work together and exchange materials that otherwise would be side or waste products.”
Planning to buy a Ford vehicle in Malaysia? Visit www.sdacford,com.my for the location of the nearest showroom.
First generation of Ford Focus had sound insulation materials made from old jeans.
