Race starts in Brazil at 2:10 pm Sunday/1:10 am Monday in Malaysia
Race starts in Brazil at 2:10 pm Sunday/1:10 am Monday in Malaysia
Volkswagen has launched the new 8th generation Golf with digitisation as a key feature, most clearly demonstrated by the new Digital Cockpit. Though looking traditional at a glance, the dashboard is actually revolutionary and presents information in a clearer, neater way.
The Digital Cockpit, which will be standard across the range, includes the instrument cluster, an infotainment system, and a multifunction steering wheel. Together, these form the first functional level, in which virtually all of the displays and controls are digital.
Touch sliders enable quick and intuitive access to temperature and volume controls, while a touch island under the infotainment system also provides direct access to additional air conditioning functions, the assistance systems, and – depending on the equipment included – driving modes and parking assistants.
In a second touch island, the light and vision functions have also been repositioned and brought together: the light, along with the windscreen and rear window heating, is now operated using a digital panel arranged higher up on the dashboard to the left of the instruments, even further improving the brand’s characteristic straightforward drive experience.
Optional Innovision Cockpit
It’s possible to enhance the digital driver’s workplace even further; in combination with the 10-inch Discover Pro top navigation system, the Innovision Cockpit (which made its world debut in the third-generation Touareg) offers an even larger range of functions. On request, a windscreen head-up display will be added to create the ideal cockpit, with information such as speed, navigation information, etc. being projected into the driver’s field of vision.
This advanced functionality is also evident in the centre console and is now clearer than ever – particularly with the inclusion of the shift-by-wire gear knob for the automatic dual clutch gearbox (DSG).
The theme continues to flow across the new roof console, where operation has also been digitalised. To tilt and slide the panoramic sunroof, for example, requires just a swipe of the finger back or forward over a slider, opening and closing the transparent roof.
Intuitive operation
Intuitive operation in the Golf can also be supported by new, natural voice control on request. The system is simply activated by saying “Hello Volkswagen” or pressing the voice button on the steering wheel. The Golf reacts to intuitive voice commands such as “Take me home” (navigation) or “I’m cold” (automatic air conditioner).
The new digital microphones mean that not only is voice recognition and voice quality (for phone calls) perfect, but they can also locate the person who is speaking (driver or front passenger) and respond accordingly, for example by identifying which interior zone’s temperature needs adjusting.
Digitalisation opens up the opportunity for each driver to adapt the Golf exactly to their own taste. The customised settings can be saved in the vehicle and in the cloud, so they are still available even with a change of driver or vehicle. These settings include the Digital Cockpit and Innovision Cockpit displays, the seat position, settings for exterior mirrors and air conditioning system, the practically stepless control of the ambient lighting (up to 30 colours) and the Coming Home and Leaving Home functions.
Bentley is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its venerable V8, the longest serving engine of its type in production. Originally fitted to the S2 model of 1959, the lasting appeal of the Bentley engine is proven by its continued application today in the luxurious Mulsanne limousine. Whilst every part of the original S2 engine has been re-engineered over the decades, the basic principles and dimensions that have defined the engine for the last 60 years remain the same.
“The original V8 was designed to deliver a step-change in performance, along with smoothness, reliability and refinement. The engine was tested over hundreds of thousands of miles in the toughest conditions, as well as at full throttle for 500 hours. The success of Bentley’s acclaimed 6¾-litre V8 today in the Mulsanne owes much to that ethos,” said Dr Werner Tietz, Member of the Board, Engineering at Bentley Motors.
The 6¾-litre V8 defined, and still delivers, the traditional Bentley ‘wave of torque’, unstressed performance and exceptional refinement and efficiency. It remains the beating heart of every flagship built over the last 60 years.
Origins of the engine
The development of the first Bentley V8 engine began when a replacement was needed for the inline 6-cylinder engine used in the Bentley Mark VI, R-Type and S1. The brief was to build an engine that was at least 50% more powerful than the 6-cylinder it would eventually replace, while occupying the same space under a bonnet with no increase in weight. A ‘V’ configuration was the natural choice.
The resulting 6.2-litre engine – the first V8 – was almost 14 kgs lighter than the 6-cylinder unit. It made its debut in the Bentley S2 of 1959. The car featured air conditioning, power steering, electrically-operated ride control and press button window lifts – the most luxurious equipment for a car of that era.
In Pursuit Of Excellence
The original V8 engine had to be redesigned to fit into the new Bentley T-Series cars introduced for 1965. The engine design team focussed on improving performance, while reducing the overall engine dimensions to fit the space available under a lowered bonnet. Engine capacity was increased to 6¾-litres in 1971 through an increase in stroke which delivered even more torque.
The arrival of the first Bentley Mulsanne in 1980 required major changes to the V8, not least the need for stricter emission controls and improved passenger safety in the event of a front-end impact. The latter included a collapsible water pump, which effectively shortened the engine by 10.1 cm.
The biggest single change to the engine was for the launch of the Mulsanne Turbo. With the fitment of a large single turbocharger, the 6¾-litre engine become the first forced-induction Bentley engine since those that powered Tim Birkin’s Blower Bentleys of the 1920s. Power and torque made a step change, and the single turbo set-up was eventually replaced by a twin-turbo design.
Fuel injection, variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation have all been engineered-in to the engine since. Power slowly climbed to levels above 500 bhp, while torque figures rose to exceed 1,000 Nm – for a time, the L-series V8 made more torque than any other automotive engine in the world.
Bentley also uses a smaller, 4.0-litre V8 engine in the Continental GT and Bentayga models. The twin-turbo is distinguished by a characterful, burbling exhaust note and develops 550 ps/770 Nm.
If you’re looking for something super classy but at the same time, produces muscle car-like power and torque, then the new 2020 Audi S8 might just be the perfect candidate for you. The latest generation S8 promises a combination of ‘progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism’. (more…)
Many people who own a Mazda MX-5 Miata keep it for a long time. It’s the sort of car that comes into your life and you never want to part with it because of the pleasure it gives everytime you are behind the wheel.
Typical of Japanese cars, the MX-5 has not been a difficult car to maintain but after 30 years, some parts of the first generation NA model would be worn out and need replacement. For enthusiasts, the search for replacement parts becomes a weekend pursuit. Thankfully, with the internet, it is possible now to order parts online from other countries where stockists may still have them, or from specialists who fabricate them.
Understanding that there are many owners of the very first generation who need replacement parts, Mazda will now make Restoration Parts Program for the model. Generally, carmakers are obliged to offer replacements parts for up to 10 years after production of a model stops but now Mazda is going to produce some 1,100 parts for those who want to restore a model it produced 30 years ago.
As a fan-first brand, Mazda consulted specialty shops and Miata clubs to better understand which restoration parts were needed most. The parts will be made in Japan and while they will have the perfect fit and finish of those that were sold in the 1990s (as well as the look and feel of that era), Mazda says it will also use modern manufacturing techniques that will produce higher quality than what was possible before.
One example: a newly developed fabric soft top that uses the same rear screen material from the original version. Enkei Wheels is reproducing aluminium wheels designed like the original, but through current technologies so that it will be lighter and with a more protected finish. Essential in the maintenance of almost any classic MX-5, many moving parts – from the roller for the side windows to the brake piston caliper – that are likely in need of replacement will be offered.
“There is a pure feeling of joy when it comes to driving a Miata, of any generation,” said Masahiro Moro, Chairman & CEO of Mazda North American Operations. “Our unique Jinba-Ittai – ‘horse and rider as one’ – engineering philosophy has allowed for the engaging and exhilarating driving dynamic that has remained constant over the years, helping make the Miata an important vehicle for the brand and our fans. By helping prolong the life of MX-5 NA models, Mazda is committed to supporting the roadster culture and looks forward to seeing these historic vehicles on the road – and on the track – for years to come.”
Visit www.mazda.com.my to know more about the latest Mazda MX-5 and other models available in Malaysia.
Some manufacturers around the world have close ties with the world of aviation and the latest Aston Martin Wings Series is a complete catalogue of the brand’s many endeavours in the world of aviation, especially with UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF). Their celebration involves the unveiling of a new logo and plans for more special limited-edition models in the future. Yeah! (more…)
There’s a new McLaren ‘Ultimate Series’ roadster and it’s called the McLaren Elva. This is the very first McLaren road car that comes with an open cockpit and offers an entirely new dimension to their Ultimate Series line-up. The Elva is a very special and limited model indeed as only 399 examples will be made for global consumption. (more…)
In just two days, at an event in Los Angeles, Ford will unveil the much-anticipated Mustang Mach-E. It carries the name of the iconic sportscar but will be entirely different under the bonnet – an all-electric powertrain instead of a petrol engine.
The event will be streamed on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, with actor Idris Elba helping to introduce the latest addition to the Mustang family. Aiming to build up its order bank early, the company will accept bookings immediately after the broadcast (which would be around 10:30 am in Malaysia on Monday morning) at Ford.com.
Customers can pre-order the Mustang Mach-E by placing a refundable deposit (subject to terms and conditions). Ford says that timing will be critical, especially for a limited First Edition. Those who wish to pre-order a car can select their desired specification of the Mustang Mach-E, create a Ford account, select their preferred Ford dealer, and enter their credit/debit card details and address. The pre-ordering is available to customers in the USA and certain other regions.
Little is known about the Mustang Mach-E but it is said to have crossover SUV genes as well. ‘Mach’, which refers to the speed of sound, was used for fastback variants in the earlier generations. Recently, at the SEMA show, Ford unveiled a fully electric Mustang Lithium with over 900 bhp and 1,356 Nm of torque. But that was an ‘edge-of-the-envelope’ project and the Mustang Mach-E won’t reach such output levels.
However, from one Ford microsite, we learnt that the car is claimed to have a range of 480 kms and scheduled maintenance costs are estimated to be 38% lower costs versus comparable vehicles. Using a 150kW DC fast charger, a 10-minute charge is claimed to be able to give a range of 75 kms.
Drop by PISTON.MY for more details when we have them on Sunday night.
Want to buy a traditional Mustang to keep as a collector’s item? Sime Darby Auto ConneXion has some units for sale. Visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information.
Since 2001, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn. Bhd. (UMWT) and the Malaysian Ministry of Education have been jointly organizing the Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) Programme to educate Malaysian youth on the importance of conserving the environment and also inspire them to act responsibly towards the environment, ensuring a sustainable future.
The programme, one of UMWT’s annual Corporate Social Responsibility activities, aims to cultivate environmental awareness and instill good environmental habit in young Malaysians as they are the future caretaker of the environment.
“Our corporate social responsibility is to help educate and instill love and care for the environment in the nation’s youth.”
Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor
In its 19th edition this year, TEY carries the theme ‘Be the Superhero to Save the World’. It incorporates elements from the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, a global initiative by Toyota Motor Corporation which aimed at going beyond zero environmental impact.
“Our business is not just confined to make ever better products that are safe and environmentally friendly. We also see it as our corporate social responsibility to help educate and instill love and care for the environment in the nation’s youth. One of the initiatives is the Toyota Eco Youth programme which have been running since 2001,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
This year, 12 secondary schools from around Malaysia participated in the programme which began in August this year. Students and teachers from the schools attended a 3-day ‘boot to learn Toyota’s 8-Step Problem-Solving Methodology. This is an approach practiced by UMWT employees to solve various types of problems, including those involving the environment.
Each school received a RM2,000 grant to kick off their project. Drawing on what they had learnt, they had to go through a market validation phase where their ideas – in the form of a product or service – were implemented and tested with the community of choice, impacting the beneficiaries.
In the final phase, each team made their final presentation and pitched their ideas to a panel of judges comprising representatives from UMWT, the Ministry of Education and myHarapan. After reviewing each presentation carefully, the best submissions by 4 schools were announced with SMK Tamparuli from Sabah picked as the Champion.
For their impressive efforts, they received prizes ranging from RM10, 000 for the Champion; RM7, 000 for second prize; RM5, 000 for third prize and RM3, 000 for the fourth prize. There was also a consolation prize of RM1, 000 as well as other prizes of RM500 each for the best video presentation and best-supporting teacher.
To date, UMWT has spent almost RM7 million on the TEY programme which has seen participation of 258 schools and 2,000 students. Commenting on the achievement of the TEY, Mr. Ravindran said it is clear that continuation of the programme can help in environment-related issues that affect not just today’s generation but also those in the future.
“We will certainly continue to run the TEY annually and as we gain feedback and experience each year, the programme will evolve accordingly so that it addresses appropriate issues,” he said.
Visit www.toyota.com.my to read more about UMW Toyota Motor’s other CSR activities.
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