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Classic Skoda models reimagined for the 21st century

A car model can usually be in production for up to 10 years, though it is usually around 5 or 6 years today. With each model change, the design will evolve in tune with trends and consumer tastes. Only very few models – like the Volkswagen Beetle – could last decades unchanged. Eventually, the discontinued models fade away, but some are also remembered and collectors preserve them as they are special in one way or another.

Skoda, with a history of 125 years, has obviously produced many models and some have been significant. As part of the Czech carmaker’s 125th anniversary celebrations, a group of designers from across the brand have re-imagined some classic models and repurposed them for the modern era.

They picked 5 of the most iconic models and came out with designs of what those models would look like if they were to be done today, in the 21^st century. These are model that defined the look and feel of Czech design and each one chosen is a personal favourite of the designer responsible.

Skoda has no specific plans to develop any of the designs, but the project gave the team inspiration from the past, the present and future environments.

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VOITURETTE
This design takes inspiration from the brand’s first-ever production car, the Voiturette A. Created by Yuhan Zhang – a member of the interior design team at Skoda – the Voiturette study is an open-top 2-seater carriage designed for use as a fully autonomous tourist car for the streets of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.

The interior features a dramatic curved information panel while the wraparound seat takes its inspiration from the single seat unit fitted to the 1905 original. Commenting on her design, Zhang explained: “I wanted to make a connection between the history of Skoda and beauty of Prague. There is a big display in the car presenting a description of the sights as you go, but it could also show passengers the history of Skoda.”

1203 CAMPER
Another iconic model to get a dramatic makeover is the 1203 van, which has been transformed into a 21st century campervan. The brainchild of interface designer Daniel Hajek, the 1203 formed the backbone of Czech industry through the 1970s, becoming the default choice for trade, governments and the emergency services. Production ran from 1968 until the late 1990s.

The 21st century version imagined by Hajek features an electric drivetrain that allows for even greater space inside, along with a pop-up roof and all the practical touches found in today’s Skodas.

In terms of exterior design, the modern 1203 Camper features a number of touches that combine old with new. “I thought long and hard about how to reference the original’s round lights without them being too retro,” explained Hajek. “That’s why there’s just a hint of some curves here, but otherwise the light signature is new and bold.”

FELICIA CABRIOLET
The 1959 Felicia provided interior designer Martin Leprince with the starting point for his design makeover. Like the open-top original, the 21st century one is a masterclass in design elegance – wrapping itself around the passenger compartment while maximising exposure to the elements.

While working on the project Leprince spent hours with an original example kept at the Skoda museum. Among the many details he admired was the wraparound windscreen – and set about updating the look for his new version. As the design shows, the Felicia study has a ‘floating’ windscreen that hovers a few centimetres above the body and curves inwards to serve as the instrument panel and infotainment display.

“I studied glass statues, and with the help of photographs and pictures I tried to come up with a way to draw a 3D glass object so that the whole was comprehensible and looked realistic. That kept me busy for quite a few days,” he explained.

POPULAR MONTE CARLO and 130RS
Sporting glory was the inspiration behind the final pair of re-imagined Skoda classics. Interior designer Ljudmil Slavov chose to recreate the brand’s classic Popular Monte Carlo, while fellow stylist Aymeric Chertier opted to update the 130RS coupe.

“The Popular Monte Carlo is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, and I found its history fascinating as well. It is incredibly elegant and tasteful,” said Slavov. As part of his makeover, the Bulgarian-born designer opted to give the car a dramatic new roadster look. Slavov also chose to replace the traditional centre speedo with a floating hologram and a wraparound screen.

The reborn 130RS (above) by contrast, is more recognisable as an homage to the original. “I wanted to refresh the original car, not change it,” stressed Chertier. “I retained its essence and characteristic lines and added certain details that we know from modern WRC cars, for example,” the designer said, explaining the retro feel combined with the distinctive muscular shapes of his car.

Proton sees second MCO affecting new vehicle sales

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Proton is usually the first to provide an overview of their sales for the previous month, and for the first month of the new year, they have reported a drop of 29.9% in sales compared to January 2020. During the month, the carmaker delivered 5,964 units and with its estimate that the Total Industry Volume for the month will be slightly above 32,000 units, that means a market share of 18.5%, about 1% less compared to the same month last year.

Proton points out that the overall figures are a reflection of supply not being able to meet demand rather than a reduction in bookings. Nevertheless, it is clear that there are economic effects on various industries and consumer confidence.

*The New Normal at Proton outlets where Standard Operating Procedures are observed by the public and staff.*

Second MCO slows down sales
“January was a difficult month for Malaysia’s automotive industry. Hopes were high that the momentum built at the end of 2020 would be carried forward, especially after the announcement of PENJANA incentives remaining available until the end of June this year. Unfortunately, the second MCO (Movement Control Order) announcement put a damper on those hopes,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.

“Still, Proton, as well as the rest of the industry, is in full support of all measures the government has in place to control the rate of infection. The safety of all Malaysians needs to remain as the main priority and companies need to pivot in order to achieve their goals in a changed market environment,” he said.

“Measures like the MCO have naturally affected the number of customers coming to showrooms, but we can receive bookings online helping to boost our sales,” he added.

*Bestselling Proton model in the first month of 2021.*

The Saga started the year as the bestselling model with 2,583 units delivered. The two SUV models – the X70 and X50 SUV twins saw lower volumes of 892 units and 1,082 units, respectively. To date, 4,809 units of the X50 have been delivered since its launch at the end of October last year.

Effect on production volume
While Proton’s order bank remains healthy with orders carried over from the end of last year, the company is still working hard for supply to catch up to demand. As an industry that depends on a global supply chain, automotive companies are acutely affected by delays to vendors that have a knock-on effect to their production lines.

“However, our supply lines have been disrupted over the last few months by the coronavirus making it difficult to ensure a steady flow of parts needed to build our cars. It’s something all car manufacturers have been facing for the past year but we are hopeful that with the arrival of a vaccine things will stabilise by the middle of the year,” Encik Roslan said.

Product launch plans remain
Despite the delays, Proton intends to pursue its product launch plans for 2021 as the company strives for more sales growth both domestically and abroad. “For now, Proton will stick to its 2021 product launch schedule. We have an exciting series of improved products in the pipeline while the Proton X50 will now be able to establish its standing in the market by benefitting from a full year of sales,” he said.

With greater attention to overseas business, Proton aims to double export volumes in 2021

New Ford F-150 Raptor extends extreme off-road capability

Malaysians know the Ford Ranger Raptor as the most extreme Ranger ever sold in the region. Developed with assistance from Ford Performance, the pick-up truck has the performance to go with its macho looks. Its name was derived from a variant of the F-Series which was introduced in 2009 for desert racing, eventually being used to represent the brand’s high-performance trucks.

With the F-Series now in its 14^th generation (since June last year), Ford has also updated the F-150 Raptor for its third generation. It comes with completely redesigned running gear, re-engineered with an all-new rear suspension and even better overall performance on rough terrain at high speeds.

“Raptor is the original desert truck. We just took it to another level,” said Ali Jammoul, Ford Performance Vehicle Program Director. “The all-new Raptor splices high-speed off-road performance muscle with advanced technology and connectivity that comes together in a unique Built Ford Tough way.”

The rugged, aggressive exterior advances the signature design of F-150 Raptor. Completely redesigned, the distinctive front emphasizes the truck’s width with a machine-tough look featuring a power dome bonnet with blacked-out grille and headlights that stretch fender to fender.

Inspired by Raptor fighter jet
The bonnet has a new heat extractor and functional side vents at the top trailing edge of the fender, all inspired by the intakes of the F-22 Raptor fighter jet. Aggressive front fenders emulate the windswept look of dust billowing off the top of the tyres at high speed. The same concept extends to the rear, with blacked-out taillights and available tailgate appliqué creating visual fender-to-fender width.

*Some styling elements have been inspired by the F-22 Raptor (below).*

A wider front skidplate offers greater coverage side-to-side and extends protection forward. Durable steel front and rear bumpers are built for the rigors of off-roading, with the rear bumper retaining the high-clearance design that tucks the dual exhaust tips high up against the truck.

Available in SuperCrew configuration on a 3683 mm wheelbase, the new Raptor features a fully boxed high-strength steel frame with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy and composite body. The suspension, stronger, taller shock towers and rear control arm mounting points have been made more capable.

3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 + 10-speed transmission
Power comes from a third-generation twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost high-output V6 engine. Ford is not revealing output figures yet but says it ‘delivers torque low in the rev range right where it counts’. It has new high-power fans built into the cooling system for maximum cooling performance and with the standard 36-US gallon (136 litres) capacity, the estimated range is more than 800 kms.

A new three-inch equal-length exhaust system features a patent-pending built-in X-pipe, unique ‘trombone loop’ and first-for-Raptor active valves. The system takes advantage of a true pass-through muffler design that improves sound quality. Customers can configure four sound level modes – Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja.

The Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission (also available in Rangers sold in Malaysia) is upgraded with next-generation controls is bolted to an innovative torque-on-demand transfer case. A standard electronic locking rear differential and available TORSEN front limited-slip differential are fitted with 4:10 final drive ratios.

With 7 selectable drive modes, the Terrain Management System allows drivers to choose the setting best suited to driving conditions. Each mode adjusts steering feel, transfer case behaviour, stability control, active valve exhaust, active damping system, throttle mapping and transmission shift points, as well as the display on the digital gauge cluster.

Trail 1-Pedal Drive is a system helps make extreme off-road driving like rock crawling easier. In harsh trail situations, a driver typically must use both pedals, modulating throttle and brake simultaneously to advance the truck. Trail 1-Pedal Drive simplifies all that, combining those operations into activating just the throttle – press to move forward, release to brake. The computer ‘co-driver’ applies the brakes proportionally as the driver lifts from the accelerator.

The F-150 Raptor also comes with standard Trail Control, which operates like cruise control for off-road use. Once the desired speed is set, the computer manages throttle and braking to allow the driver to focus on steering through challenging off-road conditions.

It’s also possible to use the truck as a mobile power generation with Pro Power Onboard. With the engine running, up to 2 kilowatts of electrical output is available to run power tools, camp lights and other equipment.

Redesigned rear suspension
Of note is the 5-link rear suspension with extra-long trailing arms to better maintain axle position on rough terrain, a Panhard rod and 24-inch coil springs – the longest in the class. The suspension, combined with more sophisticated engine management software, means the truck can put more torque to the rear wheels for quicker starts off the line, faster acceleration and better throttle responsiveness while simultaneously delivering comfort, stability, handling, control and traction at speed.

The Raptor can fly through the air easily and handle heavy landings, a requirement for a desert racer, and to improve this, there are next-generation FOX Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers with state-of-the-art electronic control technology offering position-sensitive damping adjustability.

The Raptor’s largest-ever shocks are designed to better resist heat build-up and to react even faster to terrain changes for greater confidence over extended desert running. The larger 3.1-inch-diameter anodized aluminium bodies of the absorber unit are filled with all-new low-friction shock fluid specially designed to decrease frictional losses inside the damper for improved off and on-road comfort. New electronically controlled base valves are race-proven with an upgraded design enabling upward of 1,000 pounds of damping per corner at desert speeds.

Readings from suspension height sensors and other sensors around the truck change damping rates independently at each corner 500 times per second, with the shocks responding at the same speed the human brain processes visual information. The truck responds by the time the driver even registers a terrain change.

The Raptor is available with the largest factory-fitted to a production light-duty full-size pick- up – either 35-inch or 37-inch tyres. These are specially designed BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyres which can easily clear obstacles. When fitted with the 37-inch tyres, there’s up to 332 mm of running clearance. Wheel travel with 35-inch tyres reaching 356 mm at the front and 380 mm at the rear.

Tech for off-road or on-highway
The new high-tech cockpit has a customizable 12-inch digital gauge cluster with Raptor-specific graphics and animations, off-road data and turn-by-turn navigation. The customizable new 12-inch centre screen allows owners to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously, including navigation, music or truck features.

A 360-degree camera system provides an in-cabin view of obstacles around the truck, with the front view offering a real-time tyre track overlay to dynamically show the path of the wheels ahead to reduce the need to stop for spotter guidance.

The new interior uses enhanced materials, unique surface finishes and has more storage. The steering wheel features a laser-etched logo, top centering mark and aluminium paddle shifters are fitted. Seats with large bolsters keep occupants in place and even more aggressive Recaro bucket seats are available as optional equipment.

Ford Ranger Raptor — The F-150 Raptor isn’t available in Malaysia but Sime Darby Auto ConneXion can offer you the equally extreme Ranger Raptor, developed with the same expertise from Ford Performance. Visit **www.sdacford.com.my** to know more.

Longer warranty with 2021 Volvos sold in Malaysia

Volvos have long been known for their durability and even in the 1960s, when some cars were ‘rust-buckets’ and Japanese cars were perceived to have ‘milo tin’ panels, Volvo was claiming over 10 years of reliable service life which kept on extending to over 20 years.

Of course, that is about the car being able to run reliably for that length of time. There is also the possibility of manufacturing defects occasionally, for which owners expect rectification or replacement at no charge. This is typically covered by a warranty from the manufacturer, and it used to for the first year and 20,000 kms. Volvo naturally provided such a warranty even though its cars were very durable.

*Volvos have long been known for their longevity and reliability.*

Standard 3 years + 2 more
Like other companies, Volvo’s warranty periods have progressively extended, and in 2021, owners of their new vehicles in Malaysia will enjoy a longer coverage period of 5 years, with no limit on mileage. Prior to this, new Volvos came with a standard 3-year or 100,000 km factory warranty with a combined 2-year or 20,000 km Extended Warranty Programme provided by an external insurance partner.

“This new offering is part of our dedication to quality, particularly in relation to our vehicles and customer relationship. At Volvo Car Malaysia, every decision we make is designed around the customer’s needs and more so to solidify their trust in Volvo. We want our customers to feel supported throughout the ownership of their vehicle and we believe that the new extended factory warranty is a step in the right direction as a premium car brand that is rooted in safety,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM).

*Models like the XC90 PHEV have an additional longer warranty period specifically for the lithium-ion battery pack (below) to give owners peace of mind as the cost of replacement is expensive.*

8 years for PHEV battery pack
In December 2020, VCM also announced that the battery pack in Volvo’s Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) models would have an extended warranty period of up to 8 years or a maximum of 160,000 kms. The long warranty has been offered by other manufacturers in view of the high replacement cost of a battery pack.

Like the small 12V battery that has been present in the engine bay for decades, the high-voltage battery pack has a certain service lifespan but it cannot be certain. Its life depends on usage conditions, manufacturing quality and other factors and it may be short or it may surprise by being very long. But unlike the 12V battery, a battery pack for t hybrid vehicles is many thousands of ringgit.

“Our end goal of this initiative is to allow our valued customers to feel the utmost comfort when driving a Volvo car, free of worries. We allow them to fully experience the innovation and technology that goes into each one of our cars, and by doing so we are able to provide our customers with the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way,” said Mr. Nalin, adding that the extended factory warranty is vehicles that are registered for private use and not applicable to vehicles registered or used for commercial purposes.

An advertisement in Malaysia in the 1980s (left) promoting the long life of the Volvo 244. Irv Gordon proved the point by putting 5.15 million kms on his P1800 between the time he bought it in 1966 and 2013. It’s a record no one else is likely to ever beat.

Pros and cons of longer warranties
Long warranties may please car-buyers as it means they have coverage for a longer period, which is good for those who plan to keep their cars for many years. Furthermore, the warranty is usually transferable (if still in effect), which can add a bit more to resale value.

However, warranty conditions typically require the owner to adhere to the specified service intervals, and to use only an authorised service centre of the brand (and of course, genuine replacement parts). Some companies can be strict about this and if an owner misses a scheduled service or even does it well past the due time, the warranty could be terminated.

In fact, this issue of ensuring scheduled service on time to avoid voiding the warranty worried owners last year when the first Movement Control Order (MCO) was introduced. As they could not get to their service centres (which were also closed), there was the fear that they might lose their warranty. The car companies were quick to assure their customers that the warranty would not be cancelled if they were unable to send their vehicles in for servicing, but they had to do so within 30 days after the MCO was lifted.

A longer warranty which forces an owner to keep using an authorised service centre may not be welcome by all customers. While we recommend using authorised service centres for their expertise with a specific brand, we can understand that there may be owners who prefer to use independent workshops which may charge less. For such owners, the warranty conditions that require them to use only an authorised service centre may not be good.

It should be noted too that there are two types of warranties. Different manufacturers will have different approaches and some may offer a long factory warranty which has broad coverage from the first day to the last day.

Then there are companies which offer a longer warranty that is coupled to the original one that covers the first few years. The additional years are, however, covered by another party like an insurance policy. However, the fine print may reveal that for the extra years, the coverage is slightly different and certain items may not be covered when they had been covered before by the original warranty.

Customers should therefore ask for clarification about this at the time of purchase. Some companies may have a deal with the external party to provide identical coverage terms, and some may not. Many years ago, owners of a certain European brand found, to their surprise, that warranty claims were not entertained for certain items (even though the warranty was still in effect). This came to light when the brand changed franchise holders and the new franchise holder attempted to get warranty compensation for existing customers.

As for mileage, European brands have long offered unlimited mileage after original registration. Asian brands were more conservative and set a maximum mileage which would apply if it was reached before the number of years ended. Generally, it was a reasonable figure though high-mileage motorists would certainly have preferred an unlimited condition.

With the restriction on movements and interstate travel over the past year, many owners may find that they will get to enjoy the full number of years of warranty coverage, even if there is a mileage limit. They would be travelling less, especially those who are instructed to ‘WFH’ (work from home).

Volvo sales in Malaysia last year were the highest since 1999

The Naran, with Celare Pack, due for launch soon

Ameerh Naran, a racing driver whose entrepreneurial ambitions saw him focussing on the premium luxury sector, has established internationally-recognised, exclusive private jet brokerage. Combining the knowledge and experience he has gained in the motorsport and luxury worlds, he formed Naran Automotive which is based in the UK.

The company, which has plans to make luxury ultra-high performance cars, has revealed a unique ‘Celare Pack’ for its debut model – The Naran. The Celare Pack highlights the duality of The Naran as an aggressive on-track weapon as well as an object of beauty. It allows customers to tailor the 4-seater hyper-coupe to meet their individual needs, whether they prefer pushing the limits on the track or drive on public roads.

The option – its name derived from the Latin for ‘to conceal or hide’ – is inspired by the adjustable systems used in motorsport, includes the removal of the rear wing, adjustments to the front-end aerodynamic setup with airflow disrupters and a change of tyres.

Within 20 minutes the aerodynamic package can be installed or removed by Naran Automotive engineers, switching the car between road-legal GT3 racing car and a piece of art. Owners will receive a carbonfibre wing cradle to mount the wing safely when not in use.

The Naran, an all-wheel-drive, front mid-engined hyper-coupe, is capable of producing an industry-leading 1,377 kgs of downforce, exceeding that of a GT3 racing car. It is claimed to have an acceleration time from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 2.3 seconds, with an expected top speed of over 370 km/h.

Naran Automotive has worked with technical partner EY3 Engineering to optimise whole vehicle aerodynamics to deliver this focused performance without compromising the monolithic design language and coupe silhouette.

The team developed unique, hidden solutions to deliver a perfectly balanced vehicle, including motorsport-inspired carbon composite bargeboards, which are attached directly to the front wishbone to help smooth airflow from the front wheels.

A full flat floor and split-rear diffuser delivers critical airflow to energise the rear wing, while the front splitter directs flow under the car feeding the front diffusers to generate all front downforce. The cooling channels above feed the brake discs, engine intake and cooling pack, with the latter exiting through the bonnet to increase downforce and reduce drag.

Daniel Mense, engineering director at EY3 Engineering, said: “The aerodynamic development of The Naran is firmly rooted in motorsport pedigree with benchmarking against GT3 racing cars. We have been constantly challenging ourselves to optimise airflow for ultimate lap time and performance without any compromise to the distinctive design. This has resulted in some aerodynamic solutions that are unique to The Naran.”

The bespoke 5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which produces 1,048 bhp and 1,036 Nm of torque, is being crafted in Germany with partners Racing Dynamics.

Just 49 units of The Naran will be built for sale, and each car can be personalised to the requirements of the customer. This includes the designation of a bespoke model name – a convention normally reserved for luxury superyachts.

“Our vision is to deliver an unrivalled driving experience with no compromise between performance, design and luxury. Through the expertise of our world class partners we have been able to unearth innovative aerodynamic solutions that would normally only be deployed in high level motorsport,” said Ameerh Naran.

Czinger 21C hybrid hypercar – 1,233 bhp and 0 to 100 km/h in 1.9 seconds! (w/VIDEOS)

Evolution of the feature that has saved hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide

passive safety

It is well known that a Swedish engineer, Nils Ivar Bohlin, who joined Volvo from the aircraft industry developed the 3-point safety belt that is common in every car today. And, though patented, Volvo generously allowed everyone else to follow the same design without any charge. It was a ‘gift to the world’ as Volvo hoped such a move would get the seatbelt adopted widely and quickly. And it was, saving hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide. Bohlin’s invention appeared in the late 1950s and of course, Volvo led the way by installing it in its cars as standard.

An idea from aircraft
However, the seatbelt was around for some time before Bohlin’s invention. The idea came from aircraft and early automotive inventors considered it to provide a form of restraint in the event the driver was thrown forward. In France, for example, Gustave-Desire Leveau registered a concept in 1903, which was for a complex 4-point seatbelt for the driver as well as the passengers.

Before the 1960s, seatbelts that were provided were the 2-point lap type that went only around the waist (left). Nils Bohlin’s invention added a third strap coming down from the top across the chest (right).

In Germany, Daimler Benz introduced a seatbelt in its Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster (W 198) in 1957. The 2-point seatbelt, essentially like what was found in commercial aircraft, was an option in the open-top supersports car and the owner could have it installed on one or both seats.

Racing cars get seatbelts
From the 1950s onwards, an increasing number of cars racing in motorsport were also fitted with a seatbelt. It was a logical thing to do as speeds rose, and drivers could be flung out or hit the steering wheel in a crash. Over time, safety systems in racing cars have advanced and those used by drivers in Formula 1 cars are extremely sophisticated, providing head-and-neck support to reduce the dangerous acceleration of the head during a collision.

*The most advanced seatbelt systems are probably the ones in F1 racing cars which must restrain the drivers who can crash at very high speeds.*

In 1958, Mercedes-Benz started to offer the 2-point seatbelt as optional equipment for the entire range of passenger cars with individual seats in the front. By the end of the same year, lap belts in the rear seats were also optionally available. Konrad Adenauer, the first Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, was convinced by the system and his official car was equipped with a lap belt in the rear.

Enhanced operation for convenience
As mentioned earlier, Volvo made the 3-point seatbelt concept freely available to the industry and Mercedes-Benz adopted the idea in the 1960s. It combined the benefits of a lap belt and shoulder belt – just like Bohlin had described it in 1958 – and included a reeling mechanism, which was initially like a ‘luxury’ feature. Mercedes-Benz introduced the seatbelt with the automatic reeling mechanism as standard equipment in front seats in 1973, and later as standard equipment in rear seats.

*The W 126 Mercedes-Benz S-Class came with a seatbelt and tensioner for more effective restraint, as well as an airbag for the driver.*

It is not just the way the seatbelt wraps around the body which is critical, but also how it is attached. The company delivered the R 107 model series SL (in 1971) with a seatbelt anchored to the bottom of the seat as standard equipment.

Seatbelt becomes compulsory
The value of seatbelts was very quickly noted by safety authorities, supported by accident research data. Manufacturers were asked to provide them as standard, at least for the front occupants, but not everyone wanted to use them. So laws were introduced to make usage compulsory, at least for the front occupants. Later on, the laws would be revised to include rear passengers as well.

Such laws initially met with plenty of resistance as they seemed to cause inconvenience and imagined discomfort. In Switzerland, for example, the protests were strong enough that the requirement was suspended some time and a referendum carried out before the law was accepted in 1981.

Mercedes-Benz continuously did R&D on all types of passive safety systems, which included seatbelts. As part of the Experimental Safety Vehicle (ESV) programme, automatically engaging seatbelts for the front seats were tested back in 1972 in the ESV 13 experimental safety vehicle. ESV 22, developed in 1973, served as a platform to test 3-point seatbelts featuring 3 seatbelt force-limiters and seatbelt tensioners as well as the driver airbag. By 1981, the driver airbag in conjunction with a seatbelt with a tensioner system was ready for introduction in the S-Class (W 126), providing the driver with even better protection during frontal collisions.

The quest to give better protection to the occupants of a motor vehicle continues, with various systems working together to provide the best protection when a car is involved in an accident. Advances are being made in the structure and new types of restraint systems are being developed although the primary one will still be the seatbelt.

How first aid kits came to be standard in German cars

Perodua aims for 9% increase in sales volume to 240,000 units in 2021

*To know more about other promotions at BHPetromart, visit www.bhpetrol.com.my.*

Cautiously optimistic about the future, Perodua has set a target of delivering 240,000 vehicles in 2021 – a 9% increase from the 220,163 units sold in 2020 which got it a 41.6% market share and continued market leadership The 2021 target is close to the volume achieved in 2019 which was 240,131 units.

For 2021, the Malaysian Automotive Association has forecast a Total Industry Volume of 570,000 units. This is 8% higher than the 529,434 units achieved in 2020.

The Malaysian carmaker continues to see strong demand for its existing models, with help from the sales tax exemption being extended until June 30 this year. “With the extension of the sales tax exemption to end-June 2021, recent COVID-19 vaccine developments and all our models continuing to be in demand, we believe 2021 will be the year of recovery,” said Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

He added that Perodua, and the Malaysian automotive ecosystem, appreciates the support for the industry and will extend its full cooperation to the government in ensuring that all standard operating procedures are followed in regard to COVID-19.

*Transmissions for Perodua vehicles are produced locally at a factory in Negeri Sembilan.*

Purchasing more from local suppliers
Dato’ Zainal said that with the estimated recovery of Perodua’s sales volume, the carmaker is expected to purchase a record RM6.5 billion worth of locally-sourced components in 2021. “In addition, with 2020 ending better than previously expected for both Perodua and the industry, we are looking to increase our stock by boosting our production target to 272,000 vehicles this year – the highest in our history. This increase will replenish our stock to ensure brisk delivery this year,” Dato’ Zainal added.

Perodua’s 2021 production target represents a 23% increase over the 220,968 units manufactured in 2020, and with all its models having over 90% local parts content, the carmaker remains the biggest buyer of automotive components in Malaysia.

**Myvi was most popular again**: Of the 220,163 units sold in 2020, Perodua registered 66,330 Myvis (30.1%), 59,651 Axias, 56,996 Bezzas, 22,494 Aruz, 14,691 Alzas and one other model.

Transforming for customers’ benefit
“In our efforts to further win our customers’ support, Perodua will transform our approach in every aspect, be it in customer engagement, values or even our operations – especially in our sales arm, Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd,” Dato’ Zainal said.

He explained that this approach, called ‘Perodua Smart Build’, will revolutionise Perodua’s offerings while further improving the compact car company’s operational capabilities. “More information and impact of the Perodua Smart Build initiative on Perodua, our partners, the automotive ecosystem and our valued customers will be announced in the near future,” he said.

Perodua is also expecting its service intakes to grow 20% from 2 million units in 2020 to 2.4 million units in 2021, comprising both current and new customers. With the huge volume of its vehicles on the road all around the country, the aftersales side of the business obviously generates a lot of income.

Perodua registers record number of vehicles in one day – over 5,000 units

2021 Toyota Fortuner and Innova launched

18 years ago, Toyota began a massive global project to develop the Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle of ‘IMV’ as it was referred to internally. The IMV project was not just about new models but more importantly, about moving production of those vehicles entirely outside Japan. It was believed to be the second most expensive project in the company’s history, after the Lexus project.

The result was the establishment of production hubs in major regions to product three models that shared platforms. They were the Hilux, Innova and Fortuner, rugged products for use on as well as off the highways of the world. While the Hilux was an established model, the Innova and Fortuner were new, targeting the MPV and SUV markets, respectively. The Fortuner, in particular, was intended to take over from the Land Cruiser which had become more sophisticated and more expensive. All three models were launched during 2004/2005 and in countries like Malaysia, they were also assembled locally.

The IMV project was a success, allowing Toyota to produce more vehicles outside Japan where labour cost structures were different, and more specific products could be developed for emerging markets.

While the longer history of the Hilux means it is already in its eighth generation now, the Innova and Fortuner are in just their second generation and with the first generation having been produced for around 10 years, it is now about halfway through the product cycle (if Toyota maintains the same length of time for the models).

This is when the facelift and updates are made and UMW Toyota Motor has launched both the 2021 models with updates today. The Fortuner is available in two variants with turbodiesel and petrol engines and all three have automatic transmissions. The Innova is available in three variants, all with a 2-litre petrol engine and automatic transmission only. As with most of the models offered by UMW Toyota Motor, the new Innova and Fortuner come with a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty.

2021 TOYOTA FORTUNER
New to the Fortuner range is the Fortuner 2.8 VRZ 4×4 A/T which replaces the Fortuner 2.4 VRZ offered previously. It is powered by a 2.8-litre 4-cylinder common-rail diesel engine (1GD-FTV) which produces 204 ps/500 Nm. A balance shaft reduces vibrations and lowers noise levels while high efficiency is achieved with the electronically-controlled common rail injection system that can deliver fuel at a maximum pressure of up to 250 MPa.

The 6-speed electronic automatic transmission delivers power through a part-time 4×4 drivetrain to all 4 wheels. Like the traditional SUVs, there are High and Low ranges for more capability off-road. The ranges can be easily selected with a rotary knob, unlike the old days when a second lever had to be operated and the vehicle had also to be stopped.

For stability enhancement, the drivetrain has Active Traction Control (A-TRC). New for 2021 is an Auto Limited Slip Differential (LSD). This is very useful in the most difficult conditions and uses the traction control system to control braking when one of the rear wheels start to spin. It allows engine power to be maintained and power is directed to the wheel with better traction.

The Fortuner also comes with Variable Flow Control (VFC) Power Steering, which helps to improve fuel economy by reducing the power steering pump consumption torque. Toyota’s engineers have enhanced the steering feeling to achieve natural handling that matches the speed. For the Fortuner 2.8 VRZ, there is also a SPORT mode which enhances the power steering for responsiveness.

Giving the Fortuner 2.8 VRZ additional distinctiveness, the roof, A-pillars, wing mirrors and roof-mounted rear spoiler are finished in black. It comes with Quad LED headlamps that flank a mesh-type front grille. The other lighting units have also been restyled while the front and rear bumpers have a new design. The skidplate below the front end is also new, emphasizing ruggedness.

A new body colour – Bronze Mica Metallic – with a Black Roof is available exclusively for this new variant which is the flagship of the range. The Black Roof is also available with the Super White II exterior colour only for this variant.

The Fortuner is a midsize SUV (large to some) and has 3 rows of seats. This generation has been made more premium in look and feel and for 2021, the interior trim has a new design and colour while the seat upholstery also has a new design.

The instrument panel features a revised Multi Information Display (MID) opening animation. Ambient illumination is provided to add a touch of class at night, while the key cover has been redesigned. Convenience and comfort features include LED Interior Lamps, Electrochromic Rearview Mirror (to eliminate dazzle) and 8-way power adjustment for the front seats. USB charging ports are also available for powering or recharging personal electronic devices.

At the time of purchase, customers can also include options such as Wireless Charger (new), Kick Sensor-Powered Rear Door (new), Roof-mounted Monitor and Rear Digital Video Recorder.

In line with Toyota’s efforts to reduce road accidents, the latest model comes with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS). This is an integrated suite of active safety systems which make use of a camera and radar to monitor and detect other vehicles, and to take appropriate action to prevent an accident.

TSS, though available in many Toyota models today, has different elements and for the Fortuner, it comes with Pre collision System (PCS), Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Yaw Assist Function. Unlike the TSS in passenger vehicles, the system in the Fortuner (as well as Hilux) has a Yaw Assist Function. This activates when lane departure is detected, and additional braking force applied to the inner wheels to direct the vehicle back into the proper lane position. The systems are also calibrated taking into account the usage conditions.

2021 TOYOTA INNOVA
The 2021 Innova range has updated styling and features as well as additional safety systems being made standard. Subtle changes give a more refined and prestigious look for the 2021 model. The grille has a chrome and black theme while the door mirrors have chrome housings for a touch of class. The foglamps and foglamp bezels have also been redesigned and contribute to giving a bolder appearance.

At the rear, the garnish on the back door has been restyled to visually widen the vehicle, while the roof spoiler (only for the Innova 2.0X) has been slightly reprofiled for aerodynamic improvements.

An Enhancement Package is included with the flagship Innova 2.0X. This package has a new design for wheelarch mouldings for protecting the bodywork, new bodyside mouldings and redesigned side skirts that add a sporty touch.

Both the Innova 2.0X and Innova 2.0G come with Optitron meters (originally developed for Lexus models) in the instrument panel which provide bright and clear displays in all lighting conditions. Between the meters is a 4.2-inch full colour Multi Information Display (MID) that keeps the driver informed of fuel consumption and range available with the remaining fuel in the tank.

2021 Toyota Innova — *Captain’s seats available only with Innova 2.0X*

Responding to customer feedback, extra charging ports have been added. The front 2 USB ports have been repositioned in the dashboard from the centre console and additional USB ports has been provided for those in the third row of seats. All the ports have Fast Charging capability for compatible smartphones and other portable devices. Additionally, a wireless charging pad in the centre console is also available as an option for all variants.

For 2021, additional features have been added to give the driver greater awareness of the surroundings to improve safety. The first is the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, standard for the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G and optional for the Innova 2.0E. The systems use sensors on the body and bumpers to detect other vehicles in the blind spot or approaching from either side during reversing out of a parking bay.

Also provided as standard for the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G is the Panoramic View Monitor. This uses cameras around the bodywork to capture a 360-degree view around the vehicle. The driver can view the surroundings (with selectable views) and spot hazards to avoid. The PVM is especially useful when parking in narrow or tight parking spaces.

All variants are fitted with 7 SRS airbags and every one of the occupants on all three rows has a 3-point auto-retracting seatbelt. All variants also have ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, as well as Vehicle Stability Control and Hill-start Assist Control. The extensive standard safety systems are provided as standard across the Innova range which has received the maximum 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating.

Besides the standard electronic security system, UMWT now installs a Toyota Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) as standard in the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G. This system can track the vehicle’s movements using GPS and GSM technology. If the vehicle is stolen, the VTS Command Centre can determine its location and inform relevant authorities to make recovery faster.

The Innova’s proven 2-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder VVT-i petrol engine produces 139 ps/183 Nm which goes through a 6-speed Super ECT electronic automatic transmission.

Visit www.toyota.com.my to locate a showroom in Malaysia to view and test-drive the latest Innova and Fortuner.

Two more financing schemes available for new Toyota purchases

With greater attention to overseas business, Proton aims to double export volumes in 2021

Exports are vital for the business of any carmaker if it is to keep growing. Unless it is the gigantic market in China, every carmaker cannot rely on its domestic market alone for long unless it receives protection and preferential treatment by the government.

For Proton, which did receive such protection for a long time, its focus on the domestic market enabled it to grow without the heavy cost of competing in other markets where it was just another brand. However, with the increasing liberalisation, Proton’s share of the Malaysian market began to erode and although it did export its vehicles, its overseas business was not significant.

While sales leadership in the domestic market will always be a main priority, the company recognises that in order to grow for the future, it needs to expand its customer base and search for sales in other countries. The export market is therefore of great importance to Proton’s long-term goal to be the third best-selling automotive brand in ASEAN by 2027.

Doubling export sales in 2021
The carmaker is therefore giving much more attention to its export business and has set itself the challenging target of doubling export sales in 2021 compared to what was achieved in 2020. It is setting this target on the assumption that export activities are not overly hampered by restrictions due to the global pandemic.

“Over the last two years, Proton’s international sales division has been aggressively pursuing export sales in numerous markets. We have deployed multiple strategies to achieve our goals, from shipping CBU vehicles built in Malaysia to inking agreements with local conglomerates to assemble CKD cars to benefit from local tax incentives,” said Steven Xu, the company’s Director of International Sales.

“We targeted to see significant gains in 2020 but those plans were affected by COVID-19. Still, we managed to grow our export volume, enter new markets such as Kenya and even launch the Proton X50 in Brunei barely 2 months after its Malaysian debut, so there are many positives to take into the new calendar year,” he said.

Spearheading the export activities will be Proton’s most popular model, the Saga. The X70 and X50 SUVS will also be gradually introduced to more overseas markets. At the same time, setting up local assembly operations in some foreign markets will also boost exports.

Tailoring products to local needs
One of the keys to growing exports is having products that not only appeal to a number of different markets but more importantly, meet the needs of the market. Global players take this seriously and many years ago, Honda developed a 1599 cc engine for its Accord model just for the Singapore market when virtually all other markets used a 1602 cc engine.

Likewise, Proton has fitted a 1299 cc engine to the Saga it exports to Pakistan, instead of the 1332 cc unit commonly used, because customers there prefer cars with smaller engines. The same model is also sold in Nepal and comes with a heater, a vital component for markets with cold winter months but not installed in models sold in the ASEAN region.

“The Proton Saga remains a popular model in many countries due to its hardiness, practicality and value-for-money proposition but in order to lift our brand image, it is important for our newer models such as the Proton X70 and Proton X50 to also be exported. This will show car buyers what the company is capable of and help pave the way for us to sell other models in the future to fill up the range,” added Mr. Xu.

While Proton’s distributors and importers in its export markets are owned by local entities, it works closely with them to ensure there is a cohesive market introduction, promotion and product launch plan to suit local market conditions. By building a consistent brand image, the company is taking steps towards being a global entity and paving the way towards penetration in other regions in the future.

Working closely with foreign partners
“By working closely with our foreign partners, we aim to present a consistent message in all our export markets and ultimately, this will make it easier for the Proton brand name to establish itself in even more countries. This is in line with our aim to promote Malaysia and its vendors on a regional and global level and ultimately, this will raise their competitiveness and benefit the economy as a whole,” said the CEO of Proton Edar, Roslan Abdullah, who is not only responsible for Proton’s sales volume but also for the marketing and promotion of the brand.

“Our products have not been available in many parts of the world for a variety of reasons. Our new range of updated and jointly developed products with Geely presents an opportunity to change the narrative by opening up ownership to more countries and we are optimistic they will find a ready market in many countries,” he added.

History of Proton exports
In the early years of Proton’s existence, its focus was on the domestic market which took virtually every car it made. Export markets, though established, were not given great attention and even Mitsubishi Motors, its partner, suggested that it concentrate on developing its skills in making cars and about the business before embarking on overseas sales.

Nevertheless, Proton began exporting just one year after the first Saga went on sale in Malaysia. Its early targets were those which were ex-British colonies, like Malaysia, and where traffic went on the left side of the road like us. This would make it unnecessary to develop a lefthand drive variant so soon.

*A Proton advertisement in the UK in the 1990s.*

The UK market was considered a market with great potential then, and it was hoped that the Malaysian origins of the Saga would appeal to the British who had lived in Malaysia in the pre-Merdeka period. The first model was introduced at the Birmingham Motorshow in 1988 and initially, Proton received some preferential taxation as it was a small volume brand entering the market. This allowed it to sell at attractive prices and it was well received. The growth in sales in the UK led to a subsidiary being established to handle import and marketing activities, and that market was at one stage, Proton’s biggest export market.

As the only Muslim country in the world to develop its own car and have an automotive brand, Protons from Malaysia were expected to be popular in other Muslim countries. In fact, the first export market was Bangladesh where the Saga first went on sale in 1986. Egypt has also been a strong market for Proton since it entered in 2004.

By 2001, Proton had a presence in over 50 countries, some in significant numbers and some just a handful. It had tried to enter the US market in the late 1980s, appointing a business partner called Global Motors which created a unit known as ‘Proton America’ to get the necessary approvals. Two units of the Saga modified to lefthand drive and with 1.8-litre engines were sent to a motorshow in Las Vegas in 1988. The plan was to export as many as 30,000 cars to the USA for sale within a year. However, things didn’t work out as expected and no further attempts were made to enter the biggest car market in the world at that time.

*Bangladesh is Proton’s oldest export market, the brand having entered in 1986.*

Like many manufacturers, Proton also considered local assembly in some markets and it did so for a while in the Philippines and had a project going for Iran. It also had a joint venture company with Mitsubishi Motors in Vietnam and the deal was that for models above 1600 cc, Mitsubishi’s models would be used, and Proton would provide models below 1600 cc. But things didn’t proceed as planned and Proton never got to assemble any model.

From 2001 onwards, Proton had a new range of models and hoped to grow its exports, especially as the domestic market would become more challenging as it was supposed to be ‘opening up’ with the realisation of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA). It even built a new factory in Tanjung Malim, Perak, with a capacity of up to 500,000 units in anticipation of an export offensive regionally.

However, for various reasons, export activities diminished and in Europe, as the emission and safety regulations got tougher, Proton’s aging platforms and engines became unacceptable. By 2010, even the ‘father of Proton’, Tun Mahathir Mohamed, acknowledged that perhaps Proton had not given sufficient thought to the need to make its cars suitable for global markets and only focussed on the domestic market because it was big enough. Dealerships in many of the 50 markets slowly stopped selling Proton which was not so helpful at a time when the company was also facing a decline in domestic sales.

*Proton at the Bangkok International Motor Show in 2011. The carmaker is aiming to become No.3 in the ASEAN region by 2027.*

“We are exploring all opportunities to grow export volumes for Proton,” said Dr Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton. “We are also leveraging on Geely’s extensive overseas network operations to increase the cost-effectiveness of Proton’s operations. Geely can support us in these initiatives and there is a lot of experience within the Group so we hope to leverage on it to enable us to sell more cars outside of Malaysia.”

Brunei first export market for Proton X70

Exclusive version of Maserati Levante available, priced from RM838,800

Five units of a special edition of the Maserati Levante are now available in Malaysia, priced from RM838,800 (inclusive of local taxes and duties). They are the Levante S GranSport featuring Ermenegildo Zegna interior with PELLETSSUTA, a woven leather textile made exclusively for selected Maserati vehicles.

This collaboration between the two iconic Italian brands is not new, given their shared passion for traditional craftsmanship as well as innovative design ideas. Born of old-world Italian traditions and today’s innovative technology, PELLETESSUTA is a result of years of research. It is a development that ingeniously uses thin Nappa leather strips, replacing conventional fabric yarn. The traditional method of weaving is still adhered to, creating create an ultra-luxurious ‘fabric’ that is lightweight, soft and enduring.

For the first time in the history of Maserati-Zegna partnership, the customisation has been extended to also include the GranSport trims of the Maserati range, expanding the possibilities for personalisation.

Besides the black PELLETESSUTA interior, there is also exclusive Radica wood trim with the words ‘Ermenegildo Zegna PELLETESSUTA’, black brake calipers; and 21-inch polished Helios rims. The special edition Levante S GranSport also has an exclusive bronzo tri-coat exterior colour, or as an alternative, a Blue Nobile tri-coat paint as well.

“Like Maserati, the PELLETESSUTA by Ermenegildo Zegna combines new avant-garde technologies with century-old craftmanship to create innovation. It comes to life in the Maserati Levante S GranSport to heighten the experience for both driver and passenger, while exquisitely complementing its luxurious, race-inspired performance,” said Datuk Nik Hamdan Nik Hassan, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.

Maserati Malaysia (Naza Italia) offers each of the 5 units with 3 years of Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction. There is also a Free maintenance programme of 3 years or 60,000 kms (whichever comes first), inclusive of Maserati Premium Service Plus.

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