English Archives

Jaguar reveals its M3 rival and it’s an absolute monster

Jaguar’s Special Vehicles Operations (SVO) division has announced that it is working on a special version of the XE. Named the XE SV Project 8, the vehicle is said to be a high performance and agile Jag that should give the Germans something to worry about.

Still considered a prototype, Project 8 has been sent to the Nürburgring Nordschleife to prove what it is capable of. Under the hood is a highly tuned Jaguar Land Rover 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that produces a colossal 600bhp. According to Jaguar, once launched, Project 8 will be the most powerful road legal car it has ever made.

Sporting a menacing bodykit, Project 8 looks more suited to enter the V8 Supercar Series than a home garage. Masked with a camouflage paint scheme, the car features flared wheel arches, sportier front and side skirts as well as a massive rear wing that should keep it planted to the road at high speeds.

Like Project 7, which was a special edition F-Type, Project 8 is also considered a valuable member of the family that Jaguar hopes will become a collector’s item. Only 300 of these cars will be produced and all of them will be hand-assembled at SVO’s Technical Centre in Coventry, England. Despite the limited production run, the car will be made available to order by customers all over the world.

Speaking of the car, John Edwards, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations said, “The time is right for SVO to produce the most extreme performance road car in the history of Jaguar. The new XE SV Project 8 takes aerodynamics and performance engineering to another level – it is conceived for enthusiasts and the most discerning collectors. The price for such an extreme performance sports car available in strictly limited numbers will reflect that.”

The British automaker hasn’t divulged much regarding other aspects of the car because it only plans to do so on its website, www.jaguar.com on 28th June 2017 ahead of the car’s offical debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed two days later.

Volvo broke Nurburgring lap record in 2016 but didn’t tell anyone!

Bragging rights at the Nurburgring is very important to many manufacturers. A hot lap around the Green Hell is the default standard used to gauge a performance car’s worth. Forget top speeds and 0-100km/h times, their significance pales in comparison to how fast a particular car can get around the insanely tricky and dangerous German track.

When an automaker one-ups the competition, it makes sure the whole world knows about it. It will publish an elaborate press release that is supplemented by a few videos to jack up the hype further. This is considered the norm these days, which is why its rather puzzling why Volvo, decided to do the exact opposite.

After the completion of the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) at the Nurburgring, in typical fashion automakers pack up and head home. Volvo on the other hand, chose to stay on to do more research and development. It decided to put several of its race and road cars on the legendary course and push them to their limits to see how fast they would actually go.

The road going S60 Polestar managed to blitz the previous lap record to become the fastest four door production car to lap the infamous Nurburgring. After doing so, Volvo decided to keep the information to itself. Opting instead to make relevant changes to the racing and road cars from what was learnt on that day. The Swedish automaker hopes that, by deciding to keep mum about last year’s accomplishment, it might have a formidable advantage on track in this year’s WTCC.

Check out the video to understand what really happened behind the scenes in 2016 that led to Volvo’s best achievement on the most important proving ground.

Source: carthottle

2017 Honda NSX is the sensible supercar for the techie in all of us

The 2017 Honda NSX is a technological marvel. It’s the culmination of nearly 12 years of research and development from the Japanese manufacturer. In that time many prototypes and design were brought forth, altered then scrapped because they just weren’t practical or competitive enough to take the fight to the mainstream supercar makers.

Like the original NSX, Honda wanted to create a supercar that offered the same heart racing performance and handling as a Ferrari or Porsche but at a much lower price and was practical enough to function as a daily driver. And like any Honda, it would be able to take all kinds of abuse but never complain.

But what eventually made it onto showroom floors was something that was much better. Basically, it is a testament to the automaker’s thirst for innovation and its constant need to show European automakers that fast, good looking and reliable automobiles can be made through simpler manufacturing processes and at a considerably lower cost.

The car features a turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine that is mated to a dual clutch transmission. It’s considered an all-wheel-drive hybrid because the petrol powered engine is aided by one electric motor at the rear and two in front. As such, total power output for this particular car is rated at close to 600bhp. Thanks to the lightweight body construction (space frame design) and other weight saving features, the NSX can accomplish the 0-100km/h dash in just 2.9 seconds, which is right up there with its European rivals.

In the video shown here, Doug DeMuro, a well-known automotive journalist provides his take on why the Honda/Acura NSX is such an amazing machine that warrants the kind of asking price that’s alien to what we normally expect of Honda badged cars. Visit Doug’s Youtube channel to view other videos of the same nature.

Steve McQueen racer that is almost lifelike

The advent of modern robotic systems have made our daily lives a whole lot easier. There’s the robotic vacuum that’s able to maneuver around your sofa set or dining table while vacuuming. It can even remember where it has or hasn’t been to ensure that every inch of the floor has been cleaned.

But the robotic piece we have today, is a whole different kettle of fish. It’s something only a 9-year-old would have thought about creating, which I suspect is how this product actually came about. Enter the life-like Steve McQueen racecar, based on the original character from Pixar’s ‘Cars’ franchise. Built by a company called Sphero, the car is able to voice and mimick phrases and actions from the various Cars movies. Yes, that’s right, it is able to move about just like Steve McQueen does.

Through the use of the phone App, the car can be driven as a regular RC car. It’s pretty fast and nimble, as expected but it’s something many wont bother trying out. That’s due to the immensely fascinating robotic movements the car is capable of executing. The windshield is made of an LCD screen that displays McQueen’s eyes in a rather life-like manner. The front grille, I mean the teeth, actually move as the car says various phrases from the movies.

Sphero are currently offering the Steve McQueen car on their website for $299.99 or RM1280.30, which is relatively affordable considering its abilities and the hours of fun-filled entertainment it is capable of providing.

It’s the kind of toy car that we dreamed of having as children but never could. check out the video and you will understand what we mean.

Sphero, in case you didn’t know, gained recognition around the world about two years ago, thanks to its miniaturized bluetooth controlled version of the BB-8 droid that was featured in the Star Wars Force Awakens movie. It operates and moves just like the cute spherical movie character we have all come to love. Take a look at the video below to understand its capablities.

The company also has a number of other products in the works which include a Spider Man type thing that has yet to be revealed. Check out their website www.sphero.com for the extensive list of what they currently offer.

Volkswagen launch three new cars and attractive deals in time for the festivities

Volkswagen has a few treats for Malaysians this festive season. Besides launching three new cars, the German automaker is also offering some pretty sweet deals for those interested in purchasing a new VW.

The new Beetle, Vento ALLSTAR and Vento GT have been launched simultaneously and will be on display at Mid Vally Megamall from 24 to 28 May 2017. The Beetle, has been updated with new styling and an array of body colours that include Pure White, Tornado Red, Blue Silk, Dark Bronze, Habanero Orange and White Silver.

Compared to the outgoing car, the new one gets 2-zone climatronic AC system, touchscreen infotainment system with App-Connect, leather trim “Vienna” seats with front seat lumbar support, bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights. The car is powered by a 103bhp 1.2-litre turbocharged TSI engines that is mated to a 7-speed DSG transmission. The new Beetle is available to order in Design and Sport variants with prices starting from RM136,888.

The Vento ALLSTAR which is priced from RM78,888, receives minor design tweaks that allow out to stand out when compared to the base car. it is available in Reflex Silver and Candy White body colours and comes equipped with leather seats, aluminium sports pedals, rear spoler, black door strips and trunk garnish as well as ALLSTAR scuff plates, emblems and carpet mats.

Its mechanicals are of the tried and tested kind because it is equipped with VW’s workhorse 1.6-litre MPI engine which is paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The engine develops close to 105bhp and 153Nm of torque that will allow the sedan to offer a fuel consumption figure of just 6.5-litres per 100km.

Volkswagen is also throwing in a new MY VW Drive App with the Vento ALLSTAR. It provides drivers with numerous functions including driving style, fuel consumption tracking, enhances driver safety and control as well as provides information on car status and performance. It will also allow drivers to get help from Mondial Roadside Assistance in case of an emergency.

Lastly, the Vento GT is now available to order with a price tag that starts from RM89,888 but comes loaded with a total of RM9,000 worth of exclusive accessories that include a Stain black roof and exterior mirror wraps, black door strips, leather seats, aluminium sports pedals, GT aerokit as well as GT scuff plates, emblems and carpet mats.

The car has been made available in either Reflex Silver or Candy White body colours. But it will only come with the 1.2-litre turbocharged engine and 7-speed DSG gearbox, the same combination as what is offered with the new Beetle. Touted as the sedan with the highest torque in its class, the Vento was awarded the Compact Car of the Year award at last year’s 2016 Malaysia Car of the Year ceremony.

Kia launches Optima GT in Malaysia

Kia Malaysia has added the Optima GT variant to its latest line up of vehicles. Based on the same Optima that debuted last month, the GT, gains minor sporty design tweaks that provide it with a more aggressive stance. Compared to the previous generation car, the new one features a more pronounced tiger nose grille, angular headlights, elantra-like rear-lights and a front bumper that features air-pods on each side.

In typical Kia fashion, the interior is neatly laid out with soft touch plastics adorning necessary trim panels, which adds to the luxurious appearance of the capacious cabin. Nothing cutting edge or revolutionary about the interior or gadgetry, but the well designed cabin and the use of good quality materials make the inside of the Optima GT, a nice place to be.

The car boasts extensive enhancements and options including a range of body colours, driver aids, and a plethora of safety equipment. The Optima has allowed the Korean automaker to push the boundaries of whats possible for the D-segment market. In fact, this third generation car has helped Kia show more established automakers that luxury cars don’t need to be expensive and should be accessible by the common man.

The Optima GT is set for launch on the 24th of May 2017, but is already available for booking at any authorized Kia dealership nationwide. If you are interested, visit the automaker’s website to learn more about the vehicle.

Renault to debut new Megane R.S. at Monaco

Renault will unveil the latest iteration of its ever popular Megane R.S. in Monaco on Friday 26th May. The unveil has been timed to coincide with the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. And fittingly, the Renault will be sporting a yellow and black livery that complements that used by the namesake’s F1 car. This has been done to commemorate the French automaker’s 40-year involvement in Formula 1.

Nico Hulkenberg, Renault’s Formula 1 team driver will drive the car onto the stage for the big reveal. According to Renault, the Megane R.S. has benefited quite a bit from technology developed for F1 including aerodynamics and suspensions. As such, we can expect good things from the new generation Megane R.S..

If you would like to know more about the the three generation of Megane R.S. cars and a video of them, visit the automaker’s site at press.renault.co.uk.

Ford elects Jim Hackett as new president and CEO

There has been a major shake up at Ford Motor Company. Rumours of President and CEO of the Blue Oval, Mark Fields, being fired was rife these past few days. Many speculated that Ford’s global performance shortcomings played a part in him being axed from his post.

Ford however, released a press release stating that Mark Fields, after a 28-year career at the company has elected to retire and vacate his position as the top man of the American based automaker, which will be filled by his successor, Jim Hackett.

Hackett, 62 was the former CEO of Steelcase, Interim Athletic Director at the University of Michigan and until June 1st, executive chairman of Ford Smart Mobility LLC. Reporting directly to Executive Chairman Bill Ford, he will lead the automaker’s worldwide operations and 202,000 workforce for the foreseeable future.

“We’re moving from a position of strength to transform Ford for the future. Jim Hackett is the right CEO to lead Ford during this transformative period for the auto industry and the broader mobility space. He’s a true visionary who brings a unique, human-centered leadership approach to our culture, products and services that will unlock the potential of our people and our business,” Bill Ford said.

Hackett and Bill will place a lot of emphasis on three priorities at the company, which are sharpening operational execution across the global business, modernising Ford’s global business and transforming the company to meet future challenges.

Speaking of the contribution of Mark Fields, Bill said, “Mark Fields has been an outstanding leader and deserves a lot of credit for all he has accomplished in his many roles around the globe at Ford,” Bill Ford said. “His strong leadership was critical to our North American restructuring, our turnaround at the end of the last decade, and our record profits in the past two years.”

Other shake ups at the company include Jim Farley being appointed as executive vice president and president of Global Markets, Joe Hinrichs as executive vice president and president of Global Operations, Marcy Klevorn as executive vice president and president of Mobility, Mark Truby as vice president of Communications and Paul Ballew as Global Chief Data and Analytics Officer.

These new appointments will be made effective on 1st June 2017 and with these major changes Ford hopes to strengthen its position as a key player in the global automotive market.

Nicky Hayden succumbs to injuries from bicycle accident

It has been announced that Red Bull Honda’s WSBK rider, Nicky Hayden has past away. The 35-year-old American succumbed to injuries suffered after an accident while riding his bicycle in Italy last Wednesday.

Hayden was admitted at Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena, Italy after the incident. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries on 22nd May 2017, his fiancee Jackie, mother Rose and brother Tommy were at his side at the time.

Nicky Hayden was a beloved character in bike racing due to his tenacious fighting spirit, professionalism and all around good nature. Since an early age, he dreamed of being a pro rider and in 2006 achieved that dream by being crowned MotoGP World Champion with Honda.

Nicknamed the Kentucky Kid, he was a true champion and a fan favourite due to his kind nature, relaxed demeanor and his signature wide smile. The out-pour of prays and support from fellow racers and his legions of fans are a testament to his character and the impact he had on the racing world.

Speaking of this, Tommy Hayden, Nicky’s brother said, “On behalf of the whole Hayden family and Nicky’s fiancée Jackie I would like to thank everyone for their messages of support – it has been a great comfort to us all knowing that Nicky has touched so many people’s lives in such a positive way. Although this is obviously a sad time, we would like everyone to remember Nicky at his happiest – riding a motorcycle. Apart from these ‘public’ memories, we will also have many great and happy memories of Nicky at home in Kentucky, in the heart of the family. We will all miss him terribly.”

Today, the racing world has lost one of its best talents, rest in peace Nicky Hayden.

Perodua close to making one millionth Myvi

Perodua’s stalwart breadwinner, the Mvyi is about to reach a new milestone. The nameplate will see the one millionth Myvi rolling off the production line very soon. It’s a remarkable feat for any automaker but for Perodua, its a testament to the hard work and dedication of its employees, dealer network and parts distributors.

The first generation Myvi was launched in May 2005 and remained Malaysia’s best-selling car till the end of 2014. Despite this, it continues to be a very popular model in our country and a favourite of those looking for a B-segment city car that’s light on their wallets.

“So far, we have produced nearly one million Myvis since 2005 and this milestone will be reached somewhere this month,” Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Datuk (Dr) Aminar Rashid Salleh said.

Besides Malaysia, the Myvi has been sold under the Perodua brand in 7 different countries which include Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Brunei, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Fiji and Nepal. The Myvi is actually based on the Daihatsu Sirion but Perodua makes certain design tweaks of their own to differentiate the Malaysian car from its Japanese counterpart.

Perodua’s biggest export market is Indonesia. It has sold 31,000 Myvi cars under the Sirion brand since 2007. Locally however, the Malaysian automaker has managed to sell 64,700 vehicles in the past four months, which is a 4.1% increase compared to the same period last year. Based on its estimates, Perodua says it should be able to capture 35.4% of the local market share, making it the most popular car brand in the country.

In order to keep the current momentum going, Perodua will focus on delivering its vehicles to customers in a timely manner to further improve customer satisfaction and after sales capabilities. There are currently 184 sales and 182 service centres in the country. So, if you own a Perodua, you can rest easy knowing that you have a legion of service centres that are able to tend to any issues you might be facing.

Piston.my

English

Jaguar reveals its M3 rival and it’s an absolute monster

Volvo broke Nurburgring lap record in 2016 but didn’t tell anyone!

2017 Honda NSX is the sensible supercar for the techie in all of us

Steve McQueen racer that is almost lifelike

Volkswagen launch three new cars and attractive deals in time for the festivities

Kia launches Optima GT in Malaysia

Renault to debut new Megane R.S. at Monaco

Ford elects Jim Hackett as new president and CEO

Nicky Hayden succumbs to injuries from bicycle accident

Perodua close to making one millionth Myvi

JPJ Recalled 3,722 Vehicles: Perodua Alza and Aruz Did Not Meet Regulatory Specs

Settle Your Summons at Half Price: JSPT KL Announces Special 50% Discount

Jaguar Ends New Car Sales in the UK Ahead of Electric-Only Future

Porsche Unveils the New 911 Carrera T: A Purist’s Dream

Volkswagen Proposes 10% Wage Cut to Union Amid Financial Struggles

Penang JPJ Issues 35 Summonses in Special Operation Targeting Long-Distance Bus Drivers

Hyundai Rotem Unveils Hydrogen-Powered K3 Battle Tank for South Korea’s Next-Generation Military

Review: The Jaecoo Omoda C9 is Luxurious and Affordable

Subaru Unveils Special “Kuala Lumpur Edition” Livery For Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur

Proton Gears Up for Sepang 1000KM with New S70 R3 Race Car and Star Drivers

Archive

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Hyundai Rotem Unveils Hydrogen-Powered K3 Battle Tank for South Korea’s Next-Generation Military

Toll Exemptions for All Highways on Tuesday and Wednesday

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

Proton e.MAS 7 Embarks on Nationwide Tour, Covering 894km on Southern Leg

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