In a bold stance against the prevailing shift towards electric vehicles, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division expresses unwavering confidence in the future of hydrogen combustion engines. Masahito Watanabe, Head of Gazoo Racing, asserts that internal combustion engines, particularly those powered by hydrogen, can coexist with the growing trend of electrification.
Watanabe highlighted that the internal combustion engine, specifically through hydrogen combustion, still holds untapped potential in the pursuit of zero-emission vehicles. He emphasised the commitment to exploring diverse technologies rather than succumbing to complete electrification. However, he acknowledged a significant obstacle: the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles, hindering enthusiasts who seek easy access to filling stations.
This is going to be a hard pill to swallow, especially for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) owners, but statistics do not lie. According to CR (Consumer Reports), hybrids have far superior reliability compared to PHEVs. Every year, CR compiles info and data from its members about problems that they have encountered with their vehicles in the past 12 months.
This year, CR accumulated data from over 330,000 vehicles dated from 2000 to 2023 model years with a few additions of early 2024 models. However, because this CR is a US-based report, certain models may not be relevant to the Malaysian market.
The main comparison here is towards traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine). Electrified models, particularly hybrids, have emerged as frontrunners, showcasing superior performance compared to traditional ICE vehicles. However, the report also sheds light on the mixed performance of PHEVs, with notable variations in reliability among different models.
The evaluation delves into 20 trouble areas across various vehicle types, providing a nuanced perspective on mainstream models. This thorough evaluation encompasses everything from minor nuisances like squeaky brakes to major concerns such as out-of-warranty engine, transmission, EV battery, and EV charging issues.
Consumer Reports employs a meticulous approach, weighing the severity of each problem to generate a predicted reliability score for each vehicle, ranging from 1 to 100. This score is instrumental in determining the overall reliability rating for every major mainstream model. The reliability rating is then merged with data from track testing, owner satisfaction survey results, and safety data to calculate each vehicle’s Overall Score.
Toyota has presented its Sport Crossover Concept in Europe, offering a preview of a new battery-electric model set to join its electrified range by 2025. The concept revealed at Toyota’s Kenshiki forum in Brussels, features a sleek aero silhouette and distinctive fastback lines, positioning it as a design icon for the company’s dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup.
The Sport Crossover Concept, initially showcased at Auto Shanghai in April, has been developed for both the Chinese and European markets by BYD Toyota EV Technology Co. Ltd. (BTET), a joint venture established in China by Toyota and BYD.
The concept aims to attract first-time electric car customers and serve as a stylish alternative to SUVs, providing maximum comfort, five doors, a large boot, and generous rear legroom.
Toyota’s multipath strategy focuses on achieving carbon neutrality through the introduction of a portfolio featuring advanced, alternative fuel, and zero-emissions powertrain technologies.
In Europe, Toyota plans to introduce six dedicated BEV models by 2026, contributing to its goal of exclusively offering Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) by 2035 and achieving complete carbon neutrality by 2040.
At the GT World Series Finals in Barcelona, Genesis unveiled the full-scale prototype of its Vision GT concept, the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta. Developed for the Gran Turismo series, this exotic hypercar showcases the Athletic Elegance styling language without the constraints of a production vehicle.
The concept features a low-slung body with a long hood, cab-backward proportions, and striking design elements. The interior combines luxury with motorsport-inspired features, including a digital panoramic interface mounted on the base of the windshield.
The minimalist cockpit features Genesis’ signature Quad Lights, a yoke steering wheel, and heavily bolstered quilted seats.
The hybrid powertrain comprises a mid-mounted Lambda 11 V6 engine and a Yasa E electric motor, delivering a combined output of 1,071hp and 1336Nm of torque.
While the concept is designed for racing and won’t enter production, it allows Genesis to showcase its design prowess and push boundaries in the virtual realm of Gran Turismo 7, with availability for players starting in January 2024.
The concept hints at the brand’s potential foray into more exciting segments in the future.
In Hyundai Motor Group’s 2023 Ideas Festival, a bronze prize-winning concept called “H-SOS” has raised concerns about privacy and potential surveillance.
The concept envisions a future where cars equipped with external microphones are always listening for signs of distress, such as screams or explosions.
If detected, the car would activate lights, hazards, and horn, recording the surroundings via cameras and alerting police with the vehicle’s location and video footage.
After multiple delays and heightened anticipation, Tesla is finally poised to commence deliveries of its long-awaited Cybertruck electric pickup. Despite CEO Elon Musk acknowledging production challenges for what he described as a “radical” product, the company is pushing forward with the delivery of its groundbreaking electric truck.
The Cybertruck, Tesla’s first new model in nearly four years, holds substantial importance for the company’s reputation as an innovator in the electric vehicle (EV) space. Facing a backdrop of softened EV demand and increasing competition, the Cybertruck is a crucial player in sustaining Tesla’s sales, although it is not expected to reach the same volume as the Models 3 and Y.
Elon Musk recently admitted to challenges surrounding the Cybertruck, cautioning that it would take between a year to 18 months before the vehicle becomes a significant contributor to the company’s cash flow. The starting price for the Cybertruck is $60,990 (RM284,7620), exceeding Musk’s 2019 estimate by over 50%, potentially appealing to select affluent buyers initially.
Designed with a shiny stainless steel exterior featuring flat planes and minimal curves, the Cybertruck draws inspiration from the 1977 James Bond movie “The Spy Who Loved Me,” particularly a car-turned-submarine. The production debut in Tesla’s Austin, Texas factory revealed some key specifications for the Cybertruck:
Powertrain
The optional tri-motor powertrain in the “Cyberbeast” trim delivers a whopping 845hp, while the dual-motor AWD truck generates 600hp. The single-motor Cybertruck is scheduled for 2025, and power ratings for this variant are currently unavailable. The Cybertruck boasts a 0-100km/h time of 2.6 seconds and a quarter-mile time of less than 11 seconds. The 600hp dual-motor truck achieves 100km/h in 4.1 seconds, and the single-motor truck, with power figures yet to be revealed, is listed with a 100km/h time of 6.5 seconds. Elon Musk also disclosed the Cybertruck’s curb weight of 3,084kg during the debut event.
Range
Estimated ranges have been updated since 2019. The dual-motor version currently boasts the longest range at 547km, followed closely by the Cyberbeast at 514km despite its substantial power increase. The single-motor truck is estimated to have a range of 402km.
The Cybertruck has garnered immense interest, with over a million reservation holders who have placed $100 (RM467) deposits. Paul Waatti, an analyst at consultancy AutoPacific, notes that Tesla’s products have historically appealed to more affluent early adopters, and the Cybertruck is expected to follow this trend. Despite potentially having a smaller audience compared to SUVs, Waatti anticipates that the Cybertruck will perform surprisingly well in the market.
Renault is set to launch the highly anticipated Renault 5 E-Tech electric in 2024, offering a contemporary, electric reinterpretation of the iconic Renault 5. Ahead of the official reveal, Renault is providing a sneak peek into the exterior design, paying homage to its predecessor while embracing the future of electric mobility.
Key design features include the distinctive headlights, which play a pivotal role in making the front end instantly recognisable. The headlights not only mirror the shape of the classic model but also incorporate a central mark resembling the pupil of the human eye, evoking the 1972 advert featuring “The Adventures of Supercar” and giving the modern R5 a human-like expression.
In a departure from the historic model, the air intake on the bonnet has been replaced by a charge indicator light forming the iconic number “5” when the vehicle is fully charged. This high-tech feature serves as both a functional charge indicator and a playful nod to the model’s heritage.
The wheel arches contribute to a broader stance, reminiscent of the R5 Turbo, creating a unique and instantly recognizable personality. The vertical rear lights, extending the side panel, not only enhance the car’s aerodynamics but also add to its visual appeal.
Measuring just 3.92m in length, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric is designed as an ideal city car with a 52kWh battery offering a range of up to 400km (WLTP). The vehicle will be available with a second 40kWh battery option at a later date. Built on the new AmpR Small platform (formerly CMF-B EV), the car boasts a multi-link rear suspension, providing stability and roadholding.
Inside, users will experience reno, Renault’s next-generation humanised co-driver, offering a fully immersive digital experience. Equipped with a bidirectional onboard charger, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be the first production vehicle featuring Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. This innovative feature, supported by Mobilise, allows the car to supply energy to the grid, potentially saving drivers money on charging and reducing overall electricity bills. The V2G technology is set to launch in France and Germany in 2024, followed by the UK in 2025.
With an entry-level price of around €25,000 (RM126,884), comparable to B-segment hybrids, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market. The official unveiling is scheduled for February 26 at the Geneva International Motor Show.
In a testament to its renowned reliability and commitment to innovation, Toyota has recently unveiled its latest technological marvel—a groundbreaking 48V hybrid system designed for its turbo diesel-engined cars. Initially debuting in the Toyota Hilux pickup and Land Cruiser Prado SUV, the all-new 48V mild hybrid system is poised to revolutionise the driving experience. Speculations are rife that this innovative system may also find its way into the powertrain of the next-generation Toyota Fortuner.
Toyota has taken to its official Toyota Global YouTube channel to share a comprehensive video, offering insights into the components, functionality, and the myriad benefits of this cutting-edge 48V hybrid system.
The video begins by shedding light on the system’s composition, featuring a conventional diesel engine seamlessly integrated with various components to form a cohesive unit. The 48V hybrid system is touted for its three primary advantages: delivering smoother stop-and-start experiences, enhancing fuel efficiency for diesel-powered vehicles, and maintaining exceptional water-crossing performance, bolstered by the added benefits of hybrid technology.
BMW is taking a significant step in its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, and recent trademark applications suggest that the nomenclature for its forthcoming EVs will maintain simplicity. Notably, the electric 5 Series will adopt the straightforward moniker of the i5. Now, BMW is gearing up for the release of an electric M3, with a trademark application filed for the name “iM3” in Germany.
2023 BMW M3 CS5
While BMW had the option to follow its high-performance SUV naming convention, such as using “i3 M,” it appears the company is leaning towards the iM3 designation. Despite the potential pronunciation quirk in English, where it sounds like “I am three,” BMW has a history of unique nomenclature, evident in models like the i8.
BMW’s M division has been vocal about its commitment to electrification. It’s important to note that while the i4 M50 exists in the lineup, it falls under the M Performance category, not a full-fledged M Car.
Last summer, BMW disclosed its development of a four-motor powertrain, currently undergoing testing in the i4 M50. This advanced powertrain is expected to find its way into the upcoming electric M3, likely built on BMW’s new Neue Klasse platform.
BMW Vision Neue Klasse
As of now, BMW has not provided a specific timeline for the release of the electric M3 or the introduction of a new electric 3 Series. Expectations suggest a wait of at least a couple of years. However, if the recent trademark is any indication, the electric M3 might don the distinctive iM3 moniker when it finally hits the market.
The Fast Saga filmmakers, FF9 Pictures, have been fined $1 million (RM4,647,500) following a stunt gone awry, resulting in stuntman Joe Watts suffering brain damage and a broken skull during the filming at Warner Brothers’ studios in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, in July 2019.
Details of the Incident:
During a staged fight scene on a balcony, Joe Watts, a seasoned stuntman, fell 25ft head-first onto the concrete ground when his safety line detached as he was thrown over the shoulder of another performer. The incident occurred due to changes in the stunt routine, with the safety line failing to secure Watts during the second take, leading to life-changing injuries.
Health and Safety Failings:
FF9 Pictures, a subsidiary of Universal Pictures, admitted to health and safety failings in Luton Magistrates’ Court. The court heard that the safety line, which had worked during the first take, was not properly checked between takes. The judge criticised the decision to alter the stunt “at the last minute” and noted that Watts was “fortunate to be alive.” The matting on the set was not adjusted despite changes in the routine from rehearsals.
Legal Consequences:
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) brought the prosecution against FF9 Pictures, stating that the company had “no system for double checking that the link had been properly engaged and tightened.” The absence of proper crash matting to mitigate the consequences of an unintended fall following changes to the set and stunt sequence was also highlighted.
Sentencing and Industry Impact:
District judge Talwinder Buttar handed the $1 million fine to FF9 Pictures, emphasising the seriousness of the health and safety failings. The judge’s remarks highlighted the astonishing oversight in failing to adjust the matting despite changes in the routine. The incident highlights the importance of rigorous safety protocols in filmmaking, particularly during high-risk stunt sequences.
