The development of Renault’s E-TECH powertrains drew on the company’s experience in Formula 1 and also contributing has been a LEGO model. Yes, those little plastic blocks that can be attached together to form cars which have entertained children for over 70 years. The development story actually began at the end of the last decade. It was a time when Renault was stepping up its electrification program and advancing hybrid technology was an important step towards developing electric vehicles (EVs).
Nicolas Fremau, a member of the hybrid powertrain team, saw that using the LEGO parts – which includes gear wheels, could form a drivetrain. He built a working model from the parts and then demonstrated it to Ahmed Ketfi-Cherif, Renault’s Mechatronics Synthesis Architect and his team. Immediately, the engineers realised that if it could work in the LEGO prototype, it could surely also work as a working powertrain for a car.
Ahmed Ketfi-Cherif (left), Renault’s Mechatronics Synthesis Architect, was involved in the E-TECH’s development which began with a prototype made from LEGO parts.
Smooth operation a priority
Ahmed, who works as a control specialist, needed to ensure that transitions between driving modes were possible with a simple ‘dog clutch’. Normally used in competition cars, the dog clutch system – which replaces both a sprocket and synchronising ring in a clutchless configuration – is a gearbox boasting superior efficiency due to the reduced number of components.
This particular type of ‘flat’ version works well over time and is more reliable than other types of dog clutch. However, the team needed to find a solution to make the system smoother, as the components are less likely to fit together than in alternative setups such as a ‘roof’ dog clutch. Furthermore, unlike racing car drivers, customers who bought cars from a showroom for daily use also expected quality and smoothness.
“We’re used to using dog clutches in Formula One, for a racing engine. But it was something completely new for a ‘general public’ engine. We had to make this simple object usable by customers,” explained Ketfi-Cherif, who understood that a smooth and refined drive of much higher importance than winning lap times.
Adding a high-voltage starter generator
The team quickly came up with the solution to ensure enhanced smoothness by adding a second electric motor, called a High-voltage Starter Generator (HSG). “Its role is to replace the synchronisers of a traditional gearbox to facilitate the clutch and therefore the gear change. By working in conjunction with the electric motor, it allows very precise regulation of the speed of rotation of the gearbox for smooth gear changes,” he explained.
From this, the original LEGO model concept was updated and tested on the road. They discovered the HSG brought other benefits with immediate torque contribution smoothing acceleration at low speeds, avoiding any break in torque delivery when changing gears.
This also meant the system could operate as a series hybrid for enhanced comfort and flexibility, without the need for an excess of stored energy or a charging socket. According to Ketfi-Cherif, the possibilities for use in the range were multiplied, with both E-TECH hybrid and E-TECH plug-in hybrid powertrains now possible.
At the end of these tests, the E-TECH development teams were reassured that what had worked in the LEGO concept and in simulation also worked ‘extremely well’ in real life. A ‘toy’ had become an engineering reality, allowing up to 80% of urban driving to be done on just electricity, and having the extra boost in power or range with the petrol engine assisting when needed.
The momentum started in 2020, in spite of the pandemic situation, and put Proton in a strong position to accelerate into 2021. With an appealing range of offerings, cumulative sales in the first quarter of the year (Q1) were the highest since March 2012, with a large number of orders as well.
This has created a knock-on effect and for Proton Commerce, the carmaker’s finance arm, it could lead to a record number of loan disbursements. It has seen its loan volume grow in line with the increase in sales of Proton vehicles. For comparison, in 2018, it disbursed a total of 5,410 loans and this nearly doubled to 10,668 the following year. For 2020, despite disruptions caused by the coronavirus as well as loan moratoriums to ease the burden on distressed borrowers, Proton Commerce disbursed 14,189 loans.
In spite of the pandemic conditions in 2020, Proton saw high sales volumes which led to more loan applications to Proton Commerce, its financial arm.
All-time high for loan disbursements
This year, after just three months, the company is heading towards a record-breaking volume – an all-time high of 20,000 loans disbursed. “Although there was a downturn in many economic sectors caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer sentiment for car purchases remains positive. Proton’s gains in product quality, its additions to the dealer network and the launch of new models have grown interest in its cars and we are seeing the results in the number of loan applications received,” said Mooi Fi Phang, CEO of Proton Commerce.
“Our loan disbursement volume for Q1 this year has increased by 42.3% and we are confident of our volume growing even more in Q2. However, the hire-purchase market could face a tough second half of the year as the PENJANA sales tax incentive is scheduled to expire at the end of June so the industry could see a period of correction as market demand finds its natural level,” he added.
New models like the X50 are drawing younger buyers, which sees a change in customer demographics for the brand.
Younger buyers drawn to Proton brand
Mr. Mooi revealed that Proton Commerce is also seeing a change in the demographics of its customers. “The age of Proton buyers is trending downwards, indicating the company’s revamped line-up has made it a more trendy choice with younger Malaysians. He also said 80% of Proton Commerce’s customers opt for 9-year hire-purchase financing plans, and that impaired loan rates up to three times lower than the industry average,” he said.
“2020 was a tough year for the industry as financial institutions had to make modification loss provisions for the 6-month moratorium programme announced by Bank Negara Malaysia. Thankfully for Proton Commerce, the financial stability of our customer base meant a very low number of our borrowers opted for the subsequent moratorium and with the removal of the provisions this year, we expect to contribute a healthy profit to our shareholders,” he added.
It’s 2021 and just under 6 years from the time the 10th generation was introduced (in America), Honda has revealed a new generation of the Civic. With a history of almost 50 years, the 11th generation Civic continues the nameplate that was used for Honda’s first global car.
In designing the new Civic, Honda stylists and engineers revisited design concepts of previous generations, maintaining the brand’s original design approach of ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (or ‘M/M’). Unlike the 10th generation which had a major design change from its predecessor, an evolutionary approach has been taken this time round for the 11th generation.
Subtle design changes
The body design is ‘thin and light’ with a low bonnet and front fenders, and the low horizontal beltline gives a low-slung look to the profile. Key to the new Civic’s styling was moving the bottom of the windscreen pillars further back rearward by 50 mm, which elongates its bonnet for a sleeker silhouette. This also visually connects the pillar to the front wheel hub, a subtle design element that emphasizes its wheels and tyres for a stable, planted stance.
Current 10th generation Civic (Malaysian market).
A low beltline with horizontal windowsills and door-mounted side mirrors improve visibility while maintaining the clean lines of the exterior. A sharp shoulder character line carves a gentle arc from the front fender to the taillights, giving continuity to the design. The lower character line carries up from the bottom of the front door, rising across the rear doors, and through the rear fenders for an enhanced sense of motion.
The additional stability provided by its new wider rear track is emphasized by stronger rear shoulders, wide-set taillights, and the upswept and aerodynamically efficient trailing edge of its bootlid. LEDs are used extensively for all the lighting units, offering benefits such as quick light-up time and longer life as well as low energy consumption.
Uncluttered cabin appearance
Inside, the M/M approach gives a simple, clean and modern look that is reminiscent of the early Civics. Back then, there were less electronic features so there was less ‘visual clutter’ and the interior designers have sought to replicate this for the latest model.
While the overall dimensions are not significantly changed (although the wheelbase has increased), which means the interior packaging continues to offer good head, leg, shoulder and hip room for all occupants. The sense of spaciousness is enhanced by the low, flat beltline and clean cabin layout, as well as the expansive view all round. The front seat design uses Honda’s Body Stabilizing Seat approach with a new-generation seat frame that firmly holds the body, enhancing comfort on long drives.
Further improving visibility is the top of the Civic’s instrument panel, which has been designed with minimum cutlines to reduce windscreen reflections and visual distractions. A striking metal honeycomb mesh accent stretches from door to door across the dashboard. It serves both form and function, creating a dramatic visual dividing line between the audio, information displays and climate controls, while the intricate flow-through design conceals the air vents for an uncluttered look.
High-quality materials are used throughout the interior, especially on touchpoints, with close attention paid to the operation of all switchgear and controls. Materials were also chosen with an eye toward practicality, such as the new premium centre console trim specifically designed to hide fingerprints and smudges to help maintain a high-end appearance.
Driver-focused technology
The instrument panel has become more high-tech with partial or full digital displays, depending on the variant. Top variants will have the Civic’s first all-digital LCD instrument display measuring 10.2 inches with a high-definition full-colour LCD panel. A ‘surprise-and-delight’ feature – the brake lights, headlights and turn signals of the displayed Civic vehicle image turn on and off when activated or deactivated.
For the North American market, where the new Civic will be manufactured at two locations, Honda is installing a Bose Premium Sound System for the first time (in the model). The system has been custom-engineered precisely for the best sound quality and reproduction in the Civic’s cabin. Expert audio engineers developed the Bose sound system with advanced components and technologies, working closely with Honda engineers to integrate the system early in the vehicle design process.
Stiffer body structure
The 11th-generation Civic body structure is said to be the most rigid in Civic history, with an 8% improvement in torsional rigidity and 13% improvement in bending rigidity versus the previous generation. This stiffer structure supports improvements in ride, handling and NVH.
As with other models, Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering structure is designed to meet present and anticipated future collision standards while minimizing additional weight. This is achieved with the extensive use of lightweight materials, such as aluminium and various grades of high-strength steel, as well as an expanded application of structural adhesives. The new, stiffer body also reduces the transmission of road and wind noise to create a more relaxed driving environment.
Drivetrain choices
Engine choices will differ from region to region although the two 4-cylinder engines – a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre or a turbocharged 1.5-litre – are likely to continue to be offered for ASEAN versions. Both are paired with an updated CVT and are said to have improved fuel efficiency.
The suspension system has been tuned to take maximum advantage of the stiffer body structure and lengthened wheelbase for a smoother ride, while improving sporty handling. The front MacPherson struts have new low-friction ball joints and front damper mount bearings to improve steering feel and self-centering, and the spring and damper alignment has been optimized to minimize operational friction.
At the rear, the wider track enhances stability, with a new larger compliance bushing with an improved bushing axis to minimize harshness. Additionally, the two rear lower arms are equipped with a new bushing that reduces noise and vibration inside the cabin, while also promoting better straight-line stability and turn in. The electronic power steering has been re-tuned to provide better feedback and improved straight-line stability.
An all-new and lighter aluminium front subframe with an efficient truss and rib structure provides rigidity and stability. Additionally, a new lightweight flex tube in the exhaust system decreases noise transmission. The reduced suspension friction and improved bushings help reduce harsh road shock by 20%.
Advancing safety performance
New active and passive safety systems are available for the Civic and in a world’s first application, both driver and passenger frontal airbags are designed to more effectively reduce conditions associated with brain injury by better controlling head motions in certain types of crashes. These all-new airbag designs, offered in the US version, attempt to address the recently recognized issue of severe brain trauma associated with angled frontal collisions.
The Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure in the new Civic has been enhanced for even better compatibility with larger vehicles. This includes improved occupant protection in angled frontal collisions, with a new upper A-pillar structure, side frame and lower firewall structure—all designed to route crash energy around the cabin. Side impact protection also has been improved, with stiffer structures in the roof, side sill and B-pillar, doors, and the rear wheel arch and C-pillar.
The new front driver’s airbag system in the Civic uses an innovative donut-shaped structure to cradle and hold the head to reduce rotation. The passenger-side front airbag uses a three-chamber design to achieve a similar result, with two outer chambers designed to cradle and control head rotation. It is also used in the new Acura TLX and MDX.
The standard Honda Sensing suite of active safety and driver assistive technologies uses a new single-camera system that provides a wider field of view than the previous radar+camera-based system. Combined with software advances and a new, more powerful processor, the system is also capable of more quickly and accurately identifying pedestrians, bicyclists and other vehicles, along with road lines and road signs.
The new camera-based system improves on existing functionality, such as more natural brake application and quicker reactions when using Adaptive Cruise Control. It also has more linear and natural steering action when using the Lane-Keeping Assist System. With the addition of 8 sonar sensors, the Civic will have, for the first time, Low-Speed Braking Control, and front and rear false-start prevention.
Pedestrian safety was not overlooked in the engineering of the new Civic. It has a new front bumper beam safety plate designed to decrease leg injuries and the bonnet incorporates an embossed inner structure designed to reduce injuries to the head if the pedestrian hits the bonnet.
Images and video of new Civic shown are of the US version. ASEAN version may differ in some areas and features.
New Civic for ASEAN
As has been the case for many generations now, the model revealed in America may not be identical to the one we will get in Malaysia. Honda designers consider preferences influenced by culture and make small changes here and there. However, the engineering would be largely similar since that part has been developed at great cost and to make too many modifications would be an unnecessary expense.
Every Civic generation has been assembled in Malaysia since the mid-1970s when the first generation was launched. It was the 100,000th unit (inclusive of other models) assembled at Honda Malaysia’s plant in Melaka in 2007.
As it takes up to a year for a new Honda model to be in Malaysian showrooms, this new Civic generation will probably appear in early 2022. When the model is launched in Thailand, then you can expect the Malaysian debut to occur within months. The only thing that may slow down the process is that the Civic is assembled locally at the Melaka plant, and Honda Malaysia tries to localise parts supply as much as possible. This is an extra step that adds time, instead of just getting all the parts in the pack from the main factory in Thailand.
Do you like the new Civic? If you prefer the current one and want to get one before stocks run out, you can locate an authorised dealer at www.honda.com.my.
Speed doesn’t kill – it’s the driver behind the steering wheel who kills himself or others because he or she does not drive in a safe manner. In a perfect world, there would be no need to speedtraps, speed limits and speedbumps because every motorist would know how to drive sensibly and safely according to the conditions. Unfortunately, the world is not perfect where motoring attitudes are concerned and because of the reckless drivers who cause accidents – some fatal – the rest of us are also constrained by measures meant to keep us under control.
For decades, manufacturers have tried to find ways to address accidents with their vehicles and because they could not control the attitude of the driver, they instead made their cars as safe as possible, providing sufficient protection when an accident occurred. Then they also added driver assistance features to help drivers keep their cars under control, or to take actions to prevent accidents.
Still, the accident numbers are high, even in developed countries. Police still issue thousands of summonses for speed limits being exceeded. As one way to reduce accidents, Volvo made a decision in 2019 that all its vehicles would have the maximum speed limited to 180 km/h. Regardless of how powerful they are, the top speed will be fixed with the hope that it will make a difference over time.
Speed-limit policy starts in 2022
Now the Renault Group is doing the same thing, announcing recently that it will limit the top speed of models of the Renault as well as Dacia brands to 180 km/h as well. The first model in 2022 to be subject to this policy will be the Megane-E which will come equipped with an automatic speed limit adjuster, set by default to prevent it from going faster than 180 km/h. However, high-performance models may not have a speed-limiter.
This move is just one part of the carmaker’s Safety Plan in which it strives to optimise safety for its employees and all those who use its vehicles. The plan covers Prevention and Rescue, with the former encompassing ‘Detect and Inform’, Guide, and ‘Act’. For Rescue, the company will provide access for first responders at accident sites as well as install a Rescue Code to help them.
To ‘Detect and Inform’, Renault will install equipment in vehicles that will generate a ‘Safety Score’. This will be based on an analysis of driving data using sensors around the vehicle. By being aware of this ‘Safety Score’, it is hoped that safer driving will be encouraged.
To ‘Guide’ drivers is a ‘Safety Coach’ which can process road and traffic data to inform drivers of potential risks on their route. It can also give real-time warnings on danger-prone areas. Ultimately, greater awareness of hazards along the road should help reduce the chances of an accident occurring.
‘Act’, which uses ‘a fail-safe mechanism’ is likely to be a pro-active and autonomous system that assist drivers, which is available with other brands nowadays. The mechanism will trigger automatically in the event of a clear and present danger (eg a dangerous turn, loss of steering wheel control for a prolonged period, drowsiness, etc.). With a ‘Safe Guardian’, the vehicle will slow down and return to a safe driving mode.
How fast rescue teams can extract occupants from a vehicle in an accident is crucial and Renault is working to make it as fast as possible.
Helping rescuers work faster
The attention given to first responders – the people who reach an accident site first and can provide assistance – is aimed at reducing emergency response time and give emergency services easy vehicle access in the event of an accident.
The Renault Group has also developed two major innovations, which will be rolled out on all future releases in Europe. The first is called ‘Fire-fighter access’ which will help fire-fighters put out accidental battery fires (which can occur mainly in electrified vehicles). It considerably reduces response time (from nearly 2 hours to only a few minutes). Already a feature on electric vehicles, it will be added to all future hybrid rechargeable and electric models of the Group.
Each vehicle will have a ‘Rescue Code’, and this is a QR code to help first responders identify a vehicle and access its structural information. This can help them safely and quickly reach and extract the occupants. The Renault Group has already trained fire-fighters in 12 countries in Europe on how to use the code, while also donating several hundred vehicles to be used for training purposes.
A number of models are being recalled by Honda Malaysia to replace a fuel pump as a precautionary measure. This follows an announcement last year in connection with a global recall by the carmaker, with 55,354 units of Honda vehicles assembled in Malaysia in 2018 and 2019 being affected. Now, Honda Malaysia says that an additional 77,708 vehicles have also been added to the recall list. The latest models currently on sale are not affected.
The affected models added to the recall list are shown below:
The earlier recall list issued in June 2020.
No incidents reported so far
Honda Malaysia believes this recall is necessary as a preventive measure to address the possibility of difficulty in starting the engine, loss of engine power or vehicle stalling. So far, there are no incidences of crashes or injuries caused by this issue reported in Malaysia. However, as customer safety is Honda Malaysia’s top priority, the company will continue to uphold transparency and stringent controls for all its customers.
Owners of affected vehicles will be informed via notification letters which will include details of the recall. Owners can also check if their vehicle is affected in the fuel pump recall using the HondaTouch application or visit www.honda.com.my/productrecall.honda.com.my.
If you are not the original owner
It is possible that some owners may not receive notification letters as they are not the original owners whose details are on Honda Malaysia’s database. In this case, they can obtain assistance from an authorised Honda dealer to check on the status of their vehicle, or call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020.
Honda Malaysia urges all affected owners to contact any authorised Honda dealer to make an appointment upon receipt of the notification to replace the fuel pump, subject to parts availability. The replacement of the affected fuel pump is free of charge and all costs related to this activity will be borne by Honda Malaysia.
Meanwhile, the Penang branch of Auto Bavaria, an authorised BMW, Motorrad and MINI dealership, has introduced its first-ever dedicated BMW and MINI Service Fast Lane Centre. The stand-alone facility will complement the services provided by its main service centre.
The BMW & MINI Service Fast Lane Centre has a floor area of 30,000 sq. feet and is fully air-conditioned with a premium customer lounge, 6 service bays, and two RATC (Reception at the Car) bays. The centre specialises solely on quick service and repairs with emphasis on regular vehicle maintenance, wear and tear repairs, tyre replacement, cosmetic repairs and more, for better efficiency and time optimisation.
Quotation before work commences
According to Sime Darby Auto Bavaria’s MD, Vi Thim Juan, the Service Fast Lane concept aims to help customers optimise their time while getting the necessary service and repairs for their cars. The cost of service or repair as well as the duration needed to complete the service will be discussed in advance when a customer calls to book for the Service Fast Lane.
“Our Service Fast Lane Centre is designed to fit customers’ routines with minimal interruption. Service appointment scheduling is also flexible, allowing customers to bring in their cars at a time most convenient to them. With Service Fast Lane, service and repairs are done in a fraction of the time while customers sip their coffee and relax at our lounge,” said Mr. Vi.
Customers can be assured of receiving cost estimates, including itemised costs for parts and labour prior to any work commencing, as Auto Bavaria continues to deliver on its promise of price transparency for customers to make informed decisions about the maintenance of their vehicles. The centre operates 6 days a week, except on public holidays.
For more information on BMW or MINI products and services in Malaysia, visit www.bmw.com.my or MINI.MY.
BMW Group AG has announced the appointment of Hans de Visser as the new Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group Malaysia, effective May 1, 2021. Mr. de Visser will assume the role and responsibilities from Harald Hoelzl who will take on a new role at BMW Group AG.
Mr. de Visser brings with him over 29 years of experience in various roles within the BMW Group. He started as a Manager in Marketing Communications at BMW Motorrad in Munich and before his current role in BMW Russia as the Marketing Director, he served in various Sales and Marketing roles across several markets globally as well as in the BMW Group headquarters in Germany.
“Hans’ broad experience in various roles in marketing and sales, as well as his international background will be extremely valuable in his new position,” said Hendrik von Kuenheim, Senior Vice-President Region Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa.
For more information on BMW or MINI products and services in Malaysia, visit www.bmw.com.my or MINI.MY.
Lotus Cars and Lotus Engineering, under the ownership of the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group since mid-2017 (although a Malaysian shareholder still has 49%), is changing gears to accelerate its business forward. Broadcasting a new dawn for the company via Driving Tomorrow, a global virtual conference, the British carmaker has revealed four new vehicle architectures, a technology roadmap, a fresh global retail identity and the name of an all-new car.
Its strategic direction was actually formulated with Vision80, launched in 2018 soon after the company’s 70th anniversary. Based on three key pillars – transforming the business, revolutionising the product range and delivering results every year – Vision80 commits Lotus to meet its transformational targets by the time of its 80th birthday in 2028.
2021 begins the fourth year of that plans and the transformation remains on track in spite of the challenging period during 2020. “This year is a pivotal one for Lotus, particularly with our sportscars; we reach the end of one era and begin another. The spirit and passion that gave the world the Elise, Exige and Evora will live on in the next generation of cars – cars like the all-new Lotus Emira,” said Matt Windle, MD of Lotus Cars.
Emira world debut on July 6
Lotus has confirmed more details of its all-new sportscar, to date known only by its codename ‘Type 131’. Firstly, its name is now confirmed to be Emira – pronounced ‘E-meer-a’, a word which features in numerous ancient languages and often translates as ‘commander’ or ‘leader’.
The Emira will be unveiled on July 6 at the Lotus Advanced Performance Centre in England, adjacent to the factory where it will be made. Contrary to media speculation, the car will not be a hybrid. In contrast to almost every company talking about new cars with electrified powertrains, Lotus has confirmed that the Emira will be powered by a choice of internal combustion engines – the last time Lotus will launch a car with a combustion engine – with a new powertrain partnership. The additional powertrain option will be new to Lotus, highly efficient, use cutting-edge technology and be tuned to help deliver that distinctive Lotus experience.
With a distinctive new sports car design influenced by the Evija hypercar, the Emira marks the acceleration of the brand’s product-led offensive into a new era of contemporary design, highly efficient powertrains, and everyday usability coupled with explosive performance.
New Lotus architectures
The Emira is being built on one of four new Lotus architectures. Working collaboratively with colleagues in Europe and China, Lotus engineers have developed a dedicated family of structural platforms for the brand. Exclusive to Lotus within the Geely group but available to other companies through the Lotus Engineering consultancy, these four architectures will underpin the next generation of Lotus performance cars.
The first is the Sports Car Architecture, referred to internally as the Elemental architecture. This is the platform on which the Emira will be built. Flexible, lightweight and featuring the signature Lotus extruded aluminium technology, this sportscar platform is a massive step-change technically. Every dimension is different to previous generations of Lotus sportscars.
The second one is Hypercar Architecture, which the Evija will be the first car to use. Despite travel restrictions limiting testing opportunities around the world, progress on the hypercar has not stopped. Several thousand kilometres of engineering development and validation testing have already taken place in the UK. Lotus is also working with an advanced simulator company, allowing the Evija team to run endless simulations in the virtual world. This enhances confidence in passing project milestones with real-world development vehicles and creates programme efficiencies.
Evija owners will be the first Lotus customers to benefit from ‘what3words (W3W) technology’ available on the car. W3W divides the world into 3 metre x 3 metre squares and gives each a unique combination of three words: a W3W address. For example, ‘hotspots.punters.race’ is the W3W address for the entrance to Lotus HQ. The Lotus Emira will also benefit from this system, which is a far more accurate location system than the traditional postcode.
Premium Architecture is the third of the four architectures and is described as the first ever truly global automotive architecture from Lotus. This will complement the Evolution platform which will be the basis for an all-new range of lifestyle vehicles from the company. The architecture has been defined and designed in the UK, supported by collaborative work with teams in China, Sweden and Germany. It is ‘born British, raised globally’.
For the future is Electric Sportscar Architecture which will see a new vehicle platform coming from a collaborative effort between Lotus and Group Renault’s Alpine brand. The Lotus Engineering consultancy is leading development work on the new platform – known internally as ‘E-Sports’, from which will come new products for Lotus and Alpine.
“The E-Sports architecture will be flexible and modular, and will generate an exciting new sportscar for the Lotus brand, with contemporary styling, class-leading ride and handling, explosive performance and that unmistakable Lotus character – a pure dynamic experience that is ‘For The Drivers’. I have challenged our teams to target the same weight as our latest combustion engine sports cars,” Mr Windle said.
Core values driving the business forward
In 2021, there are three core values driving the business forward – Performance, Intelligent Technology and Sustainability. Thanks to Vision80 and the progress made since its launch, and the support of its shareholders, the long-term foundation and sustainability of the Lotus business is taking shape. The growth of Lotus is already sparking a new generation of Lotus cars, which will lead to an increase in vehicle sales worldwide.
Being part of the Geely group of companies gives Lotus access to a vast range of skills and expertise, something which it previously did not have. Hubs spread across the globe create the new Lotus map of the world, allowing the company to draw upon deep resources and skill bases as part of the Geely Group, in the same way its former owner, Proton.
In the 1970s, the ‘hot hatch’ appeared on the scene, bringing high-performance to a broader segment of customers. Now, in the 21st century where SUVs are the most popular models, Hyundai Motor has created a ‘hot SUV’ with its new Kona N, the first SUV model in its N high-performance brand line-up.
The Kona N was developed to offer customers the performance level of a hot hatch. It aims to make SUVs fun to drive, with potential for track use and not only everyday driving. “It goes beyond the limits of an ordinary SUV. Kona N can carve corners on the racetrack and bring excitement to everyday driving,” promises Albert Biermann, President & Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group.
The standard Kona
While the standard Kona already has distinctive looks, the Kona N gets even more individuality with the bold and dynamic language of N models. With a 4215 mm length, 1800 mm width, and 1565 mm height, the Kona N is 10 mm longer than the standard model and just as long as the new KONA sporty N Line trim (a different variant). The 2600 mm wheelbase is, however, the same as the standard car.
Designed with a focus on maximum weight reduction and high strength, the lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels add to a great stance and very sporty appearance. These are fitted with specially developed 235/40R19 Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tyres.
The high-performance braking system has been designed for stability in changing driving conditions to enhance safety. Enlarged front and rear disc brakes take in extra air through the bigger intakes on either side of the car’s front bumper for better cooling. The application of high friction caliper material, a lower arm guide, and a heat shield maximise brake performance with more efficient cooling and high heat endurance capacity.
8-speed N-DCT
The latest member of the N brand is powered by a 4-cylinder 2.0 T-GDI 280 ps/392 Nm petrol engine, coupled to an 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (N DCT). The N-DCT is said to offer the driver the engaging experience of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Developed by the Hyundai Motor Group, the N DCT is a wet-type transmission with two separated clutches for better acceleration and a faster upshift. The wet type clutches further provide for better cooling. N DCT technology was first offered in the Veloster N and then the i30 N as well.
It has 3 high-performance functions – N Power Shift, N Grin Shift, and N Track Sense Shift – that enhance the car’s capabilities by using dedicated shift logic management. N Power Shift, used while the Launch Control function is active, can send the Kona N from standstill to 100 km/h within a claimed 5.5 seconds.
Unlike a vehicle with a conventional automatic transmission, the car does not automatically ‘creep’ when the brake pedal is released (if transmission is in D position). The driver can choose to turn the creep off as required, for example when on the racetrack.
To embody the N product philosophy, the Kona N comes with high-performance features such as an Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) and the various Electronic Stability Control modes have been optimised to improve cornering. Traction Mode ensures that traction can be established across a variety of road conditions while N Grin Control System offers 5 drive that contribute to its everyday sports car character.
Motorsport-inspired cabin
Although having the external appearance and form of a SUV, inside the car are various motorsport-inspired features that include special sports seats and an ‘emotional’ sound experience. The performance-oriented look and feel has been optimised for high-performance driving.
One feature that would stand out is the N-exclusive sport steering wheel, which features a design optimised for the perfect grip and button layout necessary for dynamic driving. Two customisable N buttons on the steering wheel allow for any type of pre-set to be mapped according to individual preference for even more ease of operation, and paddle shifters make it possible for the driver to switch gears without taking their hands off the wheel.
Performance Head-Up Display
The Kona N is the first Hyundai high-performance model to be equipped with a Performance Head-Up Display. The display shows vehicle information on a transparent screen, allowing the driver to see relevant navigation, safety, and driving information while keeping their eyes on the road.
There is also a 10.25-inch digital N cluster 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen. A Performance Driving Data System monitors driving to help improve racetrack skills. The feature saves and displays driving data, such as power and torque levels, and turbo boost during racetrack driving via AVN touchscreen.
For a more emotional driving experience, a sporty engine sound from the exhaust and intake noise is supported by the Electronic Sound Generator in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen, an engine sound generator provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver.
Making the Kona look hotter
The exterior design has SUV elements with the N membership identified by red accents. An exclusive front grille design, with its dedicated mesh, an integrated N logo also identify this as being a ‘hotter’ Kona. Other design cues indicate that this is a high-performance Hyundai N model are N forged wheels with a dark satin grey finish and red calipers, an N logo on the wheel cap, and an exclusive side sill in red with an engraved N logo.
At the rear, the large, double-wing roof spoiler dominates the view, providing downforce to maintain stability at higher speeds. There is also the iconic triangular third brake light as well as two large exhaust mufflers.
First deliveries in Europe start after June this year, and although Hyundai has not announced the prices, it is estimated that the model will cost at least the equivalent of around RM183,000 upwards in some markets.
