Local News Archives

Honda Malaysia Will Consider Adopting Blind Spot Monitoring System

The Blind Spot Monitoring system is arguably one of the must have safety systems in modern cars.

It works by using ultrasonic sensors embedded in the side or at the bottom of a vehicle’s rear bumper to detect other vehicles present in the blind spot. This then alerts the driver either through visual or auditory alerts.

Some systems also use side-mounted cameras which are mounted in the side view mirrors.

The Blind Spot Monitoring system was developed by Volvo who first called it BLIS, and was first shown in the Volvo Safety Concept car (SCC) in 2001 (shown below).

It was later shown again at the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan and was available as an option on the XC70 wagon and the S60 sedan of the same year.

These days the Blind Spot Monitoring system (BSM) is available in a number of cars as well as the likes of the Perodua Myvi and the Axia.

Curiously though, Honda cars in Malaysia have been sold with an alternative system to BSM called the Lane Watch System (LWS).

The LWS has the same objective as the BSM system where it alerts the driver of obstacles in the blind spot of the car.

However, it works by using a camera placed on the left side mirror (seen below) and then displays a video image of the left rear quarter of the car.

This only works when the turn signal is used or when a button placed on the turn signal stalk is pressed. There is no other visual nor auditory alert and neither does it alert you of other vehicles on the right side of the car.

And the other problem is that it only works best during the day when the sun is shinning at its brightest, as can be seen in the image below. This is because the camera that is used sends back a grainy image onto the centrally-placed monitor that often also shows the GPS map.

It does not work well in low light conditions, at night, or worse, in the torrential Malaysian monsoon rain where barely anything can be seen at all.

Often times, two motorcycles riding side by side at night can be misinterpreted as a single car.

Curiously though, Honda does offer Blind Spot Monitoring system in other markets, just not in Malaysia. Not yet at least.

We recently got the chance to ask why this is so during a private media interview with Eisuke Sato, the Large Project Leader of the newly launched sixth-generation Honda CRV. Sato-san flew in from Japan for the Malaysian introduction of the new CRV.

When asked by Piston.my on why Malaysian Honda’s still use Lane Watch rather than the Blind Spot Monitoring system, Sato-san said, “In other regions, we do apply BSM and in the CRV globally, we do apply BSM as well.”

“However, specifically in Asian and in Malaysia, we consider how motorcycles are often used and we believe that Lane Watch is more effective.”

“Because Lane Watch can actually visualise where a motorcycle is and how many motorcycles there are, the Lane Watch system can provide for more accurate information for drivers.”

When asked about the grainy image and how the use of a high-definition camera would probably make the system more effective, Sato-san replied, “If we look at competitors, there are those who utilise higher-definition cameras but we did verify and confirm that the current spec used in the CRV is sufficient to capture the presence of motorcycles.”

“We also do understand that in dark situations and when it is raining drivers will need more visibility, so we will continue monitoring the situation and will consider an upgrade for the next models,” he added.

There is no doubt that Blind Spot Monitoring system works better in low light and in bad weather, and it is great that Honda Malaysia has an ear on the ground and listens to feedback.

So will we see the Blind Spot Monitoring system making an appearance in upcoming models. If there’s anything we took away from that interview, we can confidently say yes, it is just a matter of time.

smart Malaysia Delivers 100 smart #1 EVs Within A Month

In a groundbreaking achievement, smart Malaysia announced the delivery of 100 smart #1 electric vehicles (EVs) within an unprecedented one-month timeframe. This record-setting accomplishment reflects the culmination of efficient collaboration among the brand’s 10 strategically located outlets, emphasising a commitment to providing customers with a seamless and expedited ownership experience.

The success of this rapid delivery initiative is attributed to the holistic one-stop mobility solution offered by smart Malaysia. The brand’s dedicated sales specialists played a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for customers, managing all essential details from selection to ownership. The end-to-end digital app further contributed to the efficiency of the purchase journey, allowing customers to seamlessly navigate processes such as booking and loan applications.

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MOT to Refine Electric Vehicle Tax Structure

In a recent announcement, the Minister of Transport, Anthony Loke, revealed ongoing refinements to Malaysia’s draft tax structure for electric vehicles (EVs). The Minister cited specific aspects of the current draft requiring improvement and emphasised the need for additional time to optimise rates for prospective EV buyers.

Loke assured existing EV owners that the review process would not impact their current tax benefits, stating, that there are some aspects that he is not satisfied with in the draft and would need reviewing.

According to Malaysia Gazette, the comprehensive draft will undergo evaluation by the EV Steering Committee before finalisation. Loke expressed his commitment to refining the draft for the benefit of prospective EV buyers, recognising the importance of a competitive tax structure to drive electric vehicle adoption in the country.

Earlier statements by Loke outlined plans for a more competitive road tax structure, known as Motor Vehicle License (LKM), tailored specifically for EVs. This initiative aligns with broader government efforts to promote eco-friendly transportation. However, Loke clarified that the proposed road tax structure would only take effect after 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the current road tax exemption period for EVs.

In February of the previous year, Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport, through the Road Transport Department, had announced a full exemption of LKM fees for electric vehicles. This exemption, valid from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2025, applies to EVs utilising battery or fuel cell technology. Notably, the exemption excludes hybrid vehicles with internal combustion engines running on petrol or diesel.

As Malaysia strives to encourage the transition to sustainable transportation, the refinement of the EV tax structure underscores the government’s commitment to balancing EV adoption incentives with fair taxation practices. The forthcoming adjustments are anticipated to create a more supportive environment for electric vehicles within the Malaysian automotive landscape.

Tragic Fire Destroys Seven Modified Cars En Route to Car Show

In a tragic incident today along KM38.1 of the PLUS expressway (northbound), seven modified cars destined for a car show were engulfed in flames, resulting in their complete destruction.

According to a statement on Facebook, the cars, comprising five Hondas, a Toyota Yaris, and a Proton Saga, were adorned with major accessories and vibrant paintwork. They were being transported on a vehicle trailer heading towards Sepang for the car exhibition when the unfortunate incident occurred at 4:52 am.

Upon noticing the fire, the driver of the car haulier promptly exited the trailer. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties. Fire and Rescue Department operation commander Fauzi Che Deris stated that 25 personnel were dispatched to the scene, and the cars on the trailer sustained significant damages, amounting to approximately 70 per cent.

An investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the fire and to assess the estimated damages resulting from this unfortunate incident.

MOT Introduces On-Demand Transit Vans for Enhanced Connectivity

In a bid to improve interconnectivity within public transportation, Malaysia’s transport ministry is set to launch an on-demand transit van service, also known as demand-responsive transit, in the Klang Valley. The implementation of this service aims to address first and last-mile connectivity gaps in areas with limited access to existing bus services.

According to Bernama, transport minister Loke Siew Fook revealed that further details regarding the on-demand transit van service would be announced soon. The service is expected to function similarly to e-hailing services, targeting strategic locations for pick-ups and drop-offs. A portion of the RM50 million allocated under Budget 2024 to enhance public transportation will be utilised to purchase the vans. Prasarana Malaysia Bhd (Prasarana) has been entrusted with overseeing the operations.

Loke emphasised that not all residential areas have established bus routes, making the on-demand service a crucial addition to the public transportation system. He also encouraged collaboration between Prasarana and existing van-on-demand service providers to maximise the initiative’s impact.

The implementation of this on-demand transit van service reflects Malaysia’s commitment to addressing the evolving needs of commuters and fostering more accessible and efficient public transportation options.

Wheel Resonators Are A Neat Little Feature In The New Honda CR-V

Installed at the centre of the wheels, these resonators are crafted from a lightweight resin and utilise the forces of physics, specifically centrifugal force, to make a significant impact on reducing tire noise.

One of the remarkable features of wheel resonators is their ingenious design, eliminating the need for additional connecting parts such as bolts. Instead, they leverage centrifugal force to establish a secure connection with the wheel, showcasing a streamlined and efficient approach to noise reduction.

The core functionality of wheel resonators lies in their ability to counteract tire noise through the power of resonance. By strategically creating vibrations at a specific frequency, these resonators essentially cancel out the unwanted noise generated by the tires, providing a more serene and enjoyable driving experience.

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Sixth-Gen Honda CR-V: Available With Active Shutter Grille

With the all-new Honda CR-V launched in Malaysia, we found another interesting feature besides the body stabilising seats, the active shutter grille.

Since 2017, Honda has incorporated active grille shutters in models like the Odyssey. This system is designed to enhance aerodynamics by utilising vents to regulate airflow through the grille to the cooling system and engine compartment.

The active grille shutters are positioned in front of the radiator and consist of motorised vanes that can move to either allow or block airflow. Controlled by the car’s engine control module, these vanes can be adjusted to various positions, ranging from fully closed to fully open, depending on the cooling air requirements for the condenser and radiator.

When airflow is necessary to cool the engine, the vents open, and when no airflow is needed, they shut. This dynamic adjustment significantly reduces aerodynamic drag, providing benefits in terms of fuel efficiency and emissions reduction. When fully closed, the active grille shutters can contribute to a 2% reduction in CO2 emissions.

Additionally, the system keeps the vanes closed for as long as possible during cold starts, helping the engine reach its most efficient operating temperature quickly and contributing an extra 0.3% to fuel efficiency.

All-New Honda CR-V Features Honda’s Body Stabilising Seats

Honda Malaysia has just officially launched the all-new Honda CR-V. We test-drove the new CR-V in Thailand last month and we loved it!

The interior is spacious and provides excellent comfort. To enhance the comfort level, it comes with Honda’s body stabilising seats. This is the first CR-V to use Honda’s body stabilising seat for front passengers.

The enhanced structure in the back of the seat increases lumbar and pelvic support to create a body-stabilising effect. This helps to prevent fatigue, particularly in the hip and waist area of occupants on longer journeys.

Additionally, the new structure makes it easier to maintain a comfortable and stable driving posture, even when cornering and on uneven road surfaces.

The next-generation body stabilising seat, which Honda developed to use for its high-end sedan models, was first available on the fourth-generation Jazz that was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show back in 2019.

All-New Honda CR-V Launched In Malaysia From RM159,900

Bookings for the new Honda CR-V (Comfortable Runabout Vehicle) were open to Malaysians a month ago and now, Honda Malaysia has officially launched the CR-V here. The CR-V, a model with a 20-year history, holds the distinction of being the first Completely Knocked-Down (CKD) model produced at Honda Malaysia’s Melaka manufacturing plant in 2003. It has been one of Honda Malaysia’s most successful models with close to 130,000 units sold.

What’s new for the sixth-generation CR-V? First, there are four trim levels to choose from, which are the 1.5L S and 1.5L E, both of which are 2WD models. At the top of the turbo range is an AWD variant, and the 1.5L AWD now has a V-grade identification. The well-known 1.5L VTEC Turbo from the previous generation is present in all three, along with the similarly well-known CVT gearbox and, lastly, sitting at the top is the brand-new 2.0L e:HEV RS, which is a powertrain we first saw in the new Honda Civic.

The 2.0L e:HEV powertrain puts out 184PS and 335Nm of torque while the 1.5L turbo puts out 193PS and 243Nm of torque.

The new CR-V introduces a modern design concept that combines refined elegance with a sophisticated appearance, embodying Honda’s design language. The e:HEV RS has a premium feel with distinct styling, featuring a bold mesh pattern front grille, full LED headlights and tail lights, LED front fog lights, and front LED sequential turn signals. Sleek door handles and Berlina Black 18-inch alloy wheels further contribute to its modern and stylish profile. In terms of sizing, compared to the fifth generation CR-V, the new body is 10mm wider, 80mm longer with a 40mm longer wheelbase.

The model (S, E and e:HEV RS variants) is bigger and wider than its predecessor, setting an imposing stance with its 4,691mm length, 1,866mm width, 1,681mm height and 2,701mm wheelbase.

Enhancing both aerodynamics and fuel efficiency, the e:HEV RS variant incorporates an Active Shutter Grille, a first for the CR-V model. This grille, mounted on the Front Lower Bumper, intelligently regulates cooling airflow based on speed, engine temperature, and cooling requirements and it contributes 0.3% to fuel efficiency.

The boot capacity now sits at 589 litres when the rear seats are up and increases to a capacious 1,072 litres when the seats are laid flat. It has a low loading height, making it easy to move heavier items onto and off the SUV.

Inside, the new CR-V e:HEV RS comes with a 12-speaker Bose sound system while the other variants come with eight speakers. You will also find an improved dashboard as seen in the Civic and with it is a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen, seven-inch for the base S variant. The V and e:HEV RS variants offer interior ambient lighting.

Additionally, the new CR-V features Honda Body Stabilising Seats. This is the first CR-V to use Honda’s Body Stabilising Seat for front passengers, which has a planar resin mat construction to support the occupant’s entire lower body for increased support and stability, extending from the pelvis to the lumbar spine. This raises the hip point position, which facilitates getting in and out of the SUV.

Qi wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, a Honda key card, and wireless Apple CarPlay are among the new features of the CR-V, which also has Android Auto connectivity. Depending on the model, the instrument cluster is either a 10.25-inch fully digital display or a seven-inch semi-digital one with an analogue speedometer, similar to the Civic.

Safety wise, the new CR-V comes with Honda Sensing with advanced technology such as the combination of radar, camera and sonar sensor for better detection angles. This helps with lane departure warning (LDW), road departure mitigation (RDM), lane keep assist system (LKAS), forward collision warning (FCW), collision mitigation braking system (CMBS), lead car departure notification system (LCDN), adaptive cruise control (ACC), low speed follow (LSF), and the RS trim comes with adaptive driving beam.

For the first time in Honda Malaysia, the model incorporates a total of eight Airbags with the inclusion of two Knee Airbags. This feature, along with Honda Connect, comes as standard across all variants.

The all-new CR-V provides customers with a choice of five attractive colours. Available for the first time in Honda Malaysia is Canyon River Blue Metallic, joining the line-up of Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, and Ignite Red Metallic.

The S variant is priced at RM159,900.00, the E at RM169,900.00 and the V at RM181,900.00. The e:HEV RS variant will only be available in early 2024, and Honda Malaysia will announce the price closer to the delivery period.

The comprehensive SUV package of the all-new CR-V contributed to its soaring popularity, amassing over 2,000 bookings in just one month.

This year, Honda is commemorating its 75th Anniversary, coinciding with Honda Malaysia’s celebration of 20 years of Completely Knocked Down (CKD) CR-V production as this model was the first car assembled in its Melaka plant. In conjunction with the celebration of these milestones, the All-New CR-V S Variant is offered at RM157,900 only for 750 units on a first-come, first served basis.