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Emotive LED headlights for Skoda’s first all-electric SUV

With the ENYAQ iV, the first all-electric SUV model from Skoda, the Czech carmaker is taking a fresh approach to lighting design. The new lighting units are technically innovative full-LED matrix headlights with an emotive design language.

According to Petr Nevrela, chief designer of exterior lighting at Skoda, the new headlights are another evolution in the company’s current design language. “We already consistently developed the front headlights of the Scala and Kamiq model series and the new generation of the Octavia. In all the models we have presented over the last 18 months, the headlights are generally flatter, resulting in an even more dynamic effect.”

“The KAMIQ also adds its own twist with daytime running lights at the top. Furthermore, additional crystalline elements have been incorporated into the headlight design. With the ENYAQ iV, we are continuing this trend and refining specific details, such as the new, finely-drawn daytime running lights with subtle lashes and the new hexagonal shape of the main LED modules,” he explained.

The development of the design was done in close collaboration with the exterior designers and with the exterior lighting development team. Typically, the process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

Skoda reflects the tradition of Bohemian crystal art in its vehicles and provides its own interpretation. The precise lines, geometric arrangements and the exceptionally clear glass surfaces are fascinating and, depending on the incidence of light and viewing angle, offer ever-changing facets. This can be used as a basis for experimenting with light effects, with the 3-dimensional rear lights that are illuminated with fine light strips.

The designers wanted the ENYAQ iV’s lighting graphics to be welcoming and friendly at first glance, while the headlights create a highly dynamic and modern look. Innovative LED technology also underlines the sustainable concept of Skoda’s first all-electric SUV.

2020 Skoda Enyaq iV — *The Enyaq iV will be launched early next month.*

Slavia open-top concept is seventh Skoda Students Car

A pioneer in automobile safety for 100 years

Safety is an important factor that car-buyers consider when shopping today. There is an expectation that occupants will be well protected in the event of an accident and avoid serious injuries. At the same time, with advanced technologies, electronic systems can help a driver avoid an accident.

Organisations such as Euro NCAP and ASEAN NCAP regularly evaluate new models in the market, going to the extent of crashing and ramming them to simulate accidents. Their findings provide car-buyers with independent assessments to make more informed decisions when choosing their next car.

*Renault Captur crash test by Euro NCAP.*

Core competence since 1920s
For Renault, the subject of safety has been a core competence for a very long time. In fact, as far back as 100 years ago, the company already installed active safety systems in its cars which today are commonplace. In 1922, for example, the company was one of the first manufacturers in the world to equip its 6-cylinder models – the 18 CV and 40 CV – with additional front wheel brakes. At that time, braking was typically at the rear wheels. In addition, Renault offered a patented brake booster for the powerful 40 CV with 9.1-litre engine.

From 1937 onwards, the introduction of independent wheel suspension in place of the rigid axle also brought a significant increase in safety reserves. That same year, the Juvaquatre compact car was the first Renault model to have the modern chassis design on the front axle.

The Juvaquatre, produced between 1937 and 1960, was also the first Renault model with a self-supporting body. It was lighter than the frame construction that was dominant at the time and offered higher impact safety. Some of the principles of its construction would be followed in later years in all car bodies.

Accident research
As far back as 1954, Renault was already studying the effects of vehicle accidents in order to make safer cars. This was done at a centre for accident research located in the Paris area. It became the place where every new Renault model would be thoroughly tested, including crash-testing, heralding the era of modern, systematic safety and accident research.

Back then, the crash tests were quite ‘basic’ and compared to today’s high-tech tests, the procedures would even be considered ‘archaic’. The Renault researchers simply sent cars crashing into trucks and then examined the outcome on different areas of the car. There were no sensor-equipped crash test dummies back then so a lot relied on visual examination and analysis.

Destroying a car was also significantly more expensive than it is today. This is why, in the 5 years between 1955 and 1960, Renault only crashed around 100 vehicles. In comparison, the company conducts up to 400 crash tests a year today and 10 times more in computer simulations.

Another facility that Renault established in the 1950s was the Laboratory for Physiology and Biomechanics. This institution was under the direction of a physician and its role was to support the development departments in designing safer and more comfortable vehicles.

*Today, Renault conducts up to 400 crash tests a year and 10 times more using computer simulations.*

In 1969, the laboratory’s name was changed to reflect its expanded function – the Laboratory for Accident Research, Biomechanics and Studies of Human Behaviour. Its task was to investigate real-world accidents with scientific methods and use the findings to further improve safety standards in Renault vehicles.

Safety vehicle prototypes
Renault’s basic research in the field of passive safety culminated in 1974 in the BRV (Basic Research Vehicle) prototype. In addition to a crash-optimized structure with an energy-absorbing crumple zone at the front and a fixed safety cell for the passengers, the vehicle had 3-point seatbelts for all seats, including the rear. The inclusion of seatbelts was significant because at that time, seatbelts were compulsory only in France and only outside of towns.

Renault BRV and EPURE safety vehicles — *The BRV (left) and EPURE safety vehicles*

In 1979, the EPURE concept vehicle took up the body concept of the BRV, supplemented by reinforced side members and padding in the doors as protection in the event of a side impact. For the first time, there were also precautions for pedestrian protection and gas generators that would tighten the seatbelts in the event of a crash. This was the birth of the pyrotechnic belt-tensioner, which Renault introduced in 1993 and was one of the first carmakers to do so.

Automotive safety will continue to be a central part of all product development at Renault. Drawing on multiple resources, it constantly develops new technologies, some of which are pioneering, that raise levels of occupant protection. Today, the brand has one of the safest model ranges in Europe, with vehicles across all classes – from the compact Captur to the Koleos – able to score the maximum of 5 stars in Euro NCAP’s evaluations.

Click here for other news and articles about Renault.

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2021 to offer a ‘S.E.T.’ of solutions for visitors

2020 has been a bad year for all types of public events as governments all over the world prohibited any activity where many people gathered and could spread the COVID-19 coronavirus. Concerts, sports events, banquets, conferences and exhibitions were all postponed or cancelled. Even the Olympics, to have been held in Japan in July this year, had to be postponed to 2021 and as yet, there is still uncertainty if it can or should be run.

However, as the peak of the pandemic has passed – but there are still new cases and the situation in America is serious – governments in some countries are slowly relaxing the prohibitions on gatherings although most organisers still look towards 2021 to resume events.

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur is one of those that is being planned for 2021. A regular event on the auto industry calendar, the trade fair is scheduled to be held from March 18 to 20 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Fresh approach
The organisers are taking a fresh approach to the event-oriented exhibition with an all-encompassing array of onsite activities and networking opportunities to help create a dialogue between players in the passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle, logistics and IoT (Internet of Things) sectors.

The digital breakthroughs present a host of new opportunities in the ongoing automation of traditional manufacturing and practices (Industry 4.0) throughout the automotive value chain. The latest National Automotive Policy 2020 has even placed IoT at the forefront of future thinking. Taking these factors into account. Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2021 will push the boundaries even further to emphasise the potential of the digital transformation in the automotive market.

It will uniquely combine all elements of ‘Sourcing, Entertainment and Training’ to offer a ‘S.E.T.’ of solutions for fairgoers to meet their participating objectives. According to Fiona Chiew, Deputy General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the organisers, the launch of ‘S.E.T.’ is another development in the show’s 22-year history.

“Each element of ‘Sourcing, Entertainment and Training’ will incorporate underlying digital trends that have the power to, ultimately, revolutionise end-user experiences. It equally weights all components, shaping dynamic growth opportunities for automotive players along the supply chain. Therefore, we aim to embody this innovative spirit at the show with one-of-a-kind activities that foster a passionate albeit business-oriented atmosphere,” she explained.

As a dominant aspect of the show, business opportunities are key drivers for participants looking to find new suppliers and meet with existing clients. The 2021 event expects to host exhibitors from 16 countries and regions across all sectors at the fair.

IoT as a standalone sector
The show introduces IoT as a standalone sector to amplify cloud-based, connectivity and telematics trends rising around the regional market. These digital trends will also transcend across Original Equipment (OE) right through to the aftermarket in the passenger, commercial vehicle and logistics sectors.

To illustrate this, product coverage of Diagnostics & Repair/Body & Paint, Accessories & Customising, Parts & Components and more within the core sectors will spotlight digital breakthroughs in safety, environmental protection, infotainment and comfort. For industry players, these are critical factors for today’s changing consumer patterns.

Entertainment in automotive culture
Automechanika Kuala Lumpur will once again be more than just a trading platform. The Auto NITZ Party and EMMA Malaysia Final – Car Audio and Modifications Competition will give way to a new type of auto-cultural festival. The spectacle aims to create a community amongst a mix of automotive players and is set to promote extended networking opportunities by engaging with more exhibitors, visitors and car enthusiasts alike. In the events, visitors from around the world will find an estimated 70 cars, tuned exclusively by local talent, along with guest performances from electronic dance and music groups.

Training from international experts
Information gathering, training and applied teaching remain huge pull factors for the show. A number of highly influential leaders will introduce the latest tools, technologies, systems and industry know-how to the regional market. Coverage will extend into commercial vehicle repair and maintenance, in addition to the passenger vehicle sector. Topics in sessions include the latest advancements for diagnostics, smart repair, and ADAS calibration and vehicle coding.

You don’t have to wait 20 years for a fully-electric Rolls-Royce

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars will eventually offer a fully-electric model and its CEO has indicated that this may happen around 2040. As it is, many companies are already ‘electrifying’ their new models and have announced plans to increase the proportion of models with hybrid or all-electric powertrains during this decade.

UPDATE [29/9/21): Rolls-Royce will have its fully electric model out by late 2023.

2040 is 20 years away and if you can’t wait to own an electrically-powered Rolls-Royce – which usually comes with a 12-cylinder engine – a company called Lunaz can offer you one soon. It will however not be the latest model and will instead be a 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V.

*Lunas is already producing electric versions of classic Bentley and Jaguar models.*

Lunaz is a creator of electric classic cars and has already turned made Jaguar and Bentley classic models emission-free with electric powertrains. Now it will start restoration of the Phantom V, a classic model and install its proprietary electric powertrain with a full suite of hardware and software upgrades.

The battery pack for the electric powertrain is the largest of its type in the world at 120 kWh, ensuring range claimed to be over 480 kms – significantly more than required for traditional chauffeur-driven use.

The 8-seat interior scheme tastefully echoes the exterior. The very finest sustainably-sourced leather is crafted by an in-house specialist team and specified in Argent Grey. Instead of traditional seat piping, a double welt feature is presented in Whisper with Argent Grey, creating a contemporary pinstripe detail.

The original woodwork will be painstakingly restored and finished with a contemporary satin treatment. This sympathetic update is offset with rose gold inlays. This approach extends to the door cappings, front fascia and the picnic table backs affixed to the privacy division that separates the driver and rear passenger compartment.

There will be numerous modern technological conveniences and two screens are integrated behind the privacy division’s picnic tables, allowing rear occupants to watch films and mirror screens from mobile devices. A bar service occupies the centre of the unit and is custom-built to perfectly fit the owner’s favourite brand of tequila. Every Lunaz client will be invited to specify dimensions for their beverage of choice.

Retaining the character of these significant cars is the priority throughout the conversion and restoration process. This extends to every detail including the weighting of switchgear which has been exhaustively engineered to operate an entirely new powertrain with the same haptic feedback as the original. Instrumentation also stays true to the spirit of the 1960s design, with delicate integration of a battery range meter and power gauge.

The 1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom by Lunaz is built in eight-seat configuration with a front bench for three occupants, rear bench for a further three and two occasional seats. Occupants throughout will benefit from Lunaz’s commitment to specifying only the very best materials. For example, rear floormats have been custom made in alpaca wool, a material that is rarer than cashmere, softer than lambswool and is considered highly sustainable.

“My approach to design is defined by Sir Henry Royce’s philosophy that ‘small things make perfection and perfection is no small thing’. Together with our clients, we work to create relevant expressions of the most significant cars in history. I am proud to give new purpose to some of the most beautiful objects ever created,” said Jen Holloway, Design Director at Lunaz.

Production is initially planned to be strictly limited to 30 units and orders are already being taken from the company’s existing client base as well as some of the most celebrated and influential institutions in the world.

Following demand for electrified Phantoms, Lunaz has also elected to begin creating Rolls-Royce Silver Clouds. Customers are invited to secure allocation for these cars in a range of bodystyles – 4-door limousine, 2-door coupe and drop head coupe.

The start of production of the world’s first electric Rolls-Royce cars follows a surge in demand for the electrification of pinnacle classic cars. This is driven by a rebalancing of car collections for a clean air future. Demand is forecast to be so great that Lunaz is doubling its workforce at its factory in Silverstone, England.

“No car in the world matches a Phantom for presence, style and significance. Through electrification we proudly further the legacy of the ‘best car in the world’, making Rolls-Royce ownership a relevant choice for a new generation,” said David Lorenz, the company’s founder.

Ex-factory, the Silver Cloud by Lunaz starts at £350,000 (around RM1.91 million)), while pricing for a Phantom V by starts at £500,000 (around RM2.74 million). Orders will be accepted from anywhere in the world only by the factory.

Proton sends Saga CKD kits to Kenya for local assembly

Proton is intent on growing its volumes as quickly as possible and while its domestic sales are increasing all the time, it is also giving more attention to sales in other countries. Additionally, it is also in discussions with some business partners in some countries to have its cars assembled locally. Like in Malaysia, there would be preferential tax imposed which will be beneficial to Proton as it can then price its cars more attractively.

First CKD shipment to Kenya
Recently, the carmaker shipped 30 units of the Saga to Kenya in CKD (completely knocked-down) form, meaning the many parts were sent there as kits and will be assembled by Simba Corporation, a diversified conglomerate with a long history of sales and assembly experience in the automotive industry.

Proton CKD Saga exports to Kenya — *The Kenyan High Commissioner for Malaysia, Francis N. Muhoro (second from left), was present to observe the despatch of the first shipment of CKD Saga kits to Kenya.*

Proton’s decision to export the Saga in a CKD form was made following close consultation with its Kenyan partner, Simba. Aside from attracting lower taxes by being locally assembled, CKD units will help spur development in Kenya’s automotive manufacturing industry.

“While strengthening Proton’s domestic position is critical to truly be acknowledged as an international carmaker, we need to see our products in places as diverse as Bangkok, Islamabad, Cairo and now, Nairobi. On a national level, this will also increase the value of trade between Malaysia and Kenya and help to contribute to the creation of jobs in Kenya’s automotive industry,” said Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy CEO of Proton.

Proton exports — *After a short period of inactivity in exporting cars, Proton resumed in the second half of 2018 with a batch of cars to the Middle East.*

Kenya is not a new market for Proton and in earlier years, it was among the 50+ countries where Proton sold its cars. However, the volumes were not big and when the 2000s began, the company reduced its focus on export markets. It is only in recent years that export plans have been formulated again and with new models in the pipeline, export sales are to become increasingly important.

Proton’s export offensive underway with updated models launched in Brunei

Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell aims to give support to aspiring SME entrepreneurs

3 months ago, during the Ramadan period, Shell Malaysia created opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to sell their delicacies at Shell stations. The nationwide initiative involving 950 stations, was aimed at supporting local and small-time food vendors by providing them an avenue to market their goods, especially during the difficult time this year.

*A new initiative by Shell Malaysia will enable SMEs with relevant products to sell them at the stations.*

Now the petroleum company is again giving support to SMEs with a new initiative that encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to realise their dreams. Known as Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell, the Shell initiative is designed to help local SMEs expand their reach with an opportunity to sell their products through the Shell Select stores located at the stations.

The initiative is part of Shell’s continuous effort to serve and drive impact to communities while increasing its product offers in store.

“Shell Malaysia has a long-lasting commitment in making life’s journeys better for our customers and the communities where we operate. The positive outcome of our past partnerships with local SMEs have inspired us to launch Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell. This initiative is one of our contributing roles to raise the economic prosperity of SMEs in Malaysia and bolster the entrepreneurial economy, especially during this unprecedented time. We have worked on many collaborations with SMEs in the past, and it is inspiring to see the quality of products our local SMEs bring to the table,” said Shairan Huzani Husain, MD of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd.

Shell has always opened its doors to local SMEs and provided them with an avenue to promote their products at Shell Select stores. For instance, Zainon Salleh, who runs a humble keropok business in Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, received the Private Label Contract with Shell earlier this year and her keropok is now available nationwide.

*Zainon Salleh’s small keropok business in Kelantan has grown, thanks to Shell choosing her as one of the suppliers for its station stores.*

“When I first made my keropok, marketing it to local shops in my hometown was a challenge. Through Shell’s help, I can now see my products reaching more people in all parts of the country. I am truly grateful to Shell for not just giving me this opportunity but for also enabling me in providing a source of income for other women through my business,” she said.

With Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell, Shell looks to partner with SMEs who supply snacks, confectionaries, non-alcoholic beverages, and ready-to-eat meals. SMEs are encouraged to take this opportunity to register their businesses and stand a chance to place their products under the Private Label Contract with Shell. This initiative is open for Malaysians aged 18 and above whose businesses must be registered and have a valid business registration number.

This initiative will award three deserving SMEs with a Private Label Contract with Shell that consists of a permanent store offering in Shell Select stores nationwide. On top of that, 27 other SMEs will also have the opportunity to promote their products at a national, regional, or specific site listing as decided by Shell.

Aspiring SME owners can find more information and submit their entries online at www.shell.com.my/MalaysianDream from now until September 11. 2020. Entries will be evaluated according to the product quality, innovation, and distribution capabilities of the business. In addition to this, Shell invites Malaysians to vote for the products that deserve to be on Select shelves nationwide on the ‘Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell’ website.

Shell Malaysia’s initiative helps small food businesses during Ramadan period

Another car on motorcycle lane – and causes a motorcyclist to have an accident!

UPDATE (22/8/20): The driver of the car with registration number QMN 5338
(as shown in the video) which was driven along the motorcycle lane 
by the Federal Highway has surrendered himself to the police tonight.

A while back, we wrote about the case of a car which was seen being driven along a motorcycle lane. The police managed to track down the owner and according to their investigations, he said he had set the Waze GPS navigation system wrongly. Giving him the benefit of doubt, we looked further into the matter to see if it was possible for Waze to give different directions if the vehicle setting was a car and a motorcycle, as we suspected that could have been the case.

There were people who didn’t think it was possible as GPS accuracy is not fine enough to be able to separate a motorcycle lane and the highway. However, when we used two different vehicle settings, the guidance did show differences, with the one for motorcycles being clearly on the motorcycle lane and the one for cars on the highway.

So it is possible that if the Waze app was accidentally set to motorcycle mode, the guidance could have directed towards a motorcycle lane. Of course, the driver should have been aware he was off the highway but it was said that he was an old man and he may really not have been familiar with the roads, so he didn’t realize he was actually on a motorcycle lane.

Video from INFO ROADBLOCK JPJ/POLIS FB

Recently, there was another case which could have resulted in a head-on collision. Fortunately, the motorcyclist (who happened to have a GoPro camera on him) swerved out of the way but still crashed against the side. The car had suddenly come out of a tunnel and as can be seen in the early part of the video, the motorcycle lane was on the left side of the highway (said to be near MidValley City in Kuala Lumpur).

This would suggest that the car entered the motorcycle lane already going the ‘wrong way’ – in relation to the highway flow – and that cannot be a GPS route guidance error. The system would not have guided the driver in the wrong direction, so it would appear that it was a deliberate action. We hope the police will also be able to track down the driver and charge him as that was certainly a very dangerous situation which could have killed someone.

Yes, Waze MOTORCYCLE and CAR modes can give you two different routes.

Fuel Price Updates For August 22 To August 28, 2020

2020 Lexus LX range joined by LX570 Sport

Lexus, like most carmakers, saw the SUV trend surging upwards in the 1990s and to quickly have a representative in the growing segment, it introduced the LX in 1995. Largely adapted from the Toyota Land Cruiser, a well-proven model, the LX had all the qualities of a Lexus, especially luxury, and also off-road capability.

Meanwhile, Lexus was also developing an entirely new SUV which, like the Toyota RAV4, would start a new segment almost overnight. It was the RX and it introduced the premium SUV and other premium manufacturers would quickly follow.

However, the LX remained as part of the Lexus range, continuously being improved and refined. Lexus has found there were still customers who wanted larger SUVs with up to three rows of seating, and the LX was an ideal product to offer.

“The Lexus LX 570 raises the level of sophistication of a very competent platform, ensuring that each journey you take, you remain ensconced in the pinnacle of automotive engineering. The Lexus logo on the characteristic spindle grille ensures you arrive in fashionable comfort and elegance,” said the Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.

The third generation of the LX has been part of the Lexus SUV range in Malaysia since 2015, complementing the RX, NX and more recently, the UX. For 2020, the model has received updates and an additional variant – the LX 570 Sport – is also available. Prices are expected to start from RM1,225,883 (excluding insurance with sales tax exemption applicable until the end of 2020) and bookings for the new model are now being accepted at all 6 authorised Lexus Centres nationwide.

Cosmetic updates
The LX570 has a clear brand identification with its spindle grille, appropriately sized to match the traditional SUV form. Measuring 5 metres in length and almost 2 metres in width, it is obviously a large vehicle and the engineers have done whatever is possible for aerodynamic efficiency.

For 2020, the turn signals glancing the LED headlights now have sequential illumination, a feature usually found on premium models. When activated, the driver’s intentions are more clearly relayed rather than just flashing amber lights.

Customers have a choice of exterior colours that now include Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic. The interior colours of Garnet, Sun Flare Brown and Ocher are used according to the choice of exterior colour.

LX570 Sport
The LX570 Sport has sportier bumpers and the spindle grille gets a different L-shaped block mesh design. Its 21-inch forged rims are also exclusively styled with a more open pattern for a sportier look.

Inside, the Lexus LX 570 Sport also gets an exclusive illuminated scuff plate, aluminium sports pedals with rubber inserts and door courtesy lamps with logo projection.

Biggest Lexus engine
The 3UR-FE engine is similar for the LX 570 and LX570 Sport. At 5.7 litres, it is the largest engine in the Lexus range and has a V8 configuration with advanced Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i). At its peak output, the engine generates 362 bhp with 530 Nm of torque and can reach up to 210 km/h, it is claimed.

The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission which delivers power to all 4 wheels via a robust 4×4 system. The driver has a choice of up to 6 driving modes to suit personal preference or driving conditions.

With the LX 570 Sport, there is also a Front Performance Damper. This additional accessory enhances body rigidity for better handling and stability without sacrifice to the overall comfort of the vehicle. The Adaptive Variable Suspension adjusts the ride according to terrain and has four electronically-controlled off-road modes.

Lexus Safety System Plus
The LX 570 has Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) as standard and the active safety features now included as standard include Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert (LDA).

“The Lexus LX 570 is truly an understated SUV. It is impressive in every aspect of its capability, be it as a people-mover, rugged explorer, safe tourer or a luxurious city dweller. It performs remarkably well everywhere and does it with the true finesse of a Lexus product,” said the President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.

Click here for other news and articles about Lexus.

The see-through Wedding Beetle of Mexico

You’ve probably seen the beloved Volkswagen Beetle in many different forms. Imaginative creators converted the original bulbous shape into something more unique and head-turning, funny or outrageous.

In Mexico, Rafael Esparza-Prieto created the Wedding Beetle, an enchanting white, wrought iron-bodied coachbuilt car from the 1960s. The talented welder and blacksmith in Mexico City was reportedly working at a local parts shop in 1968 when his boss asked him to create a one-of-a-kind Beetle shell to display and attract new customers.

Using the Beetle as the basis, Esparza-Prieto built the skeleton of the vehicle out of white wrought iron and artistically filled in the gaps with unique floral patterns and decorative swirls. The auto store owner was so impressed with his work that he displayed the finished product on a rotating platform outside his business, where it quickly drew attention.

Even the Volkswagen executives at the newly-built Puebla plant just down the road (where new Beetles were being made daily) came to look. Impressed, Volkswagen commissioned Esparza-Prieto to make two more Wedding Beetle pieces ahead of the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City — and these were drivable.

The wire shell left the vehicle’s simple, yet sophisticated, mechanics fully exposed so anyone – the driver, passengers and even other vehicles on the street – could see under its ‘skin’.

Athletes, artisans and auto enthusiasts from around the world admired the car. As it gained popularity at the Games, Volkswagen commissioned Esparza-Prieto to build an additional 20+ units in a similar fashion to display at different dealerships around the world. The white metal whimsical designs of the car evoked images of Cinderella’s horse-drawn carriage and the cars were loaned to happy couples as picturesque getaway cars for their special day.

After Esparza-Prieto moved to California, he built two more Wedding Beetles on his own. Along with his original creation, there are believed to be around 23 Wedding Beetles in total. Several other welders have since mimicked his work and built their own wrought iron versions of the car using different colours and patterns.

Highly sought-after by collectors, these artistic cars are often used for post-wedding photoshoots. As there is no windscreen or sheet metal to protect passengers from weather or stray pebbles, they are not suitable for everyday use (and would not be road-legal anyway). But the Wedding Beetle created by Esparza-Prieto over 50 years ago still does what it was intended to do: make people stop and stare.

Piston.my

English

Emotive LED headlights for Skoda’s first all-electric SUV

A pioneer in automobile safety for 100 years

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2021 to offer a ‘S.E.T.’ of solutions for visitors

You don’t have to wait 20 years for a fully-electric Rolls-Royce

Proton sends Saga CKD kits to Kenya for local assembly

Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell aims to give support to aspiring SME entrepreneurs

Another car on motorcycle lane – and causes a motorcyclist to have an accident!

Fuel Price Updates For August 22 To August 28, 2020

2020 Lexus LX range joined by LX570 Sport

The see-through Wedding Beetle of Mexico

BYD Malaysia Unveils the Sealion 7 Starting from RM183,800

smart Malaysia Launches EV Roadshow at Aeon Tebrau

Proton Expands Global Presence with New CKD Plant in Egypt

Malaysia Targets 20% EV Sales by 2030 Amid Growing Adoption and Infrastructure Expansion

East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) Progress Update: Phase One and Two Completion Dates Announced

Lalamove Enters Ride-Hailing Market with New Service in Klang Valley

Neta Facing Financial Instability

Sinkhole Developed On NKVE Following Heavy Rainfall

Tesla’s Safety Design Questioned Following Toronto Crash That Killed Four

Bentley Crossover SUV EV to Debut in 2026

Archive

BMW Group Malaysia Leads Premium EV Market with Groundbreaking Innovations

Ford Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition Launched – RM3,000 Fuel Vouchers for the First 20 Online Buyers

EV Market Faces First Decline as Hybrids Gain Ground in 2024

Aston Martin Unveils DB12 Goldfinger Edition in Celebration of 60 Years of Bond Partnership

Two Lucky Winners Announced In Proton’s Test Drive & Win Campaign

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