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Toyota Eco Youth program is now 20 years old

UMW Toyota Motor’s Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) program has now been on for two decades, during which time the importance of preserving the environment has been nurtured among Malaysian youth. It has also empowered the youth with Toyota’s own problem-solving skills and knowledge.

For the 20th edition of TEY, the Ministry of Education once again joins forces with UMW Toyota Motor to run state and national level competitions. It is the leading program cultivating environment consciousness and innovation amongst the youth of the nation, with Leaderonomics Community as the working partner for this year’s initiative.

Over the course of the last 20 years, TEY has introduced various themes with one common goal: molding an environmental conscious society of the future. A total of 258 schools, 1,910 secondary school students and 762 teachers have successfully benefited from the program and invigorated environmental initiatives in their school compound or district.

Additionally, the program gives them a platform to lobby their ideas with stakeholders that involves local authorities, community and even media.

Reimagining Mobility
The theme for the 20th edition is ‘Reimagining Mobility’, which depicts the creation of safe and eco-friendly mobility solutions for the nation. The spirit of inclusivity and freedom of ideas are the foundation to this year’s theme.

“Toyota Eco Youth has been leading the way in Malaysia for 20 years and this year promises even more innovation and advancement under the theme of ‘Reimagining Mobility’,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor. “The young people of this country are the seeds of its future and TEY aids in growing their creativity and bring their innovations to fruition. We see this program as a tool to assemble the brightest minds of our nation to propagate a greener future for all of us”.

3-year program, instead of one year
The program is open to secondary school students aged 13 – 16 years old and there is unlimited school participation. However, unlike previous years which have been completed within a year, the concept for this year’s TEY program is will run for 3 years.

The 2020 edition of TEY will also see the class of 2020/2021 having the privilege to return as facilitators for the following year’s batch. The digitalization angle of TEY is taken up a notch by setting up a TEY Apprentice online club.

The top 16 teams for Year 2020/2021 TEY members will be equipped and trained with project management skills that incorporate Toyota’s Problem Solving Methodology. With the knowledge harnessed, the top 16 TEY competitors will build a prototype solution based on their local community. This dual-pronged approach that has been curated for TEY ensures that they are both theoretically and practically comprehensive.

Students can register now via www.toyota.com.my/toyotaecoyouth, or with their respective schools. The format of this program will be fully online which includes the interactive e-learning lessons and workshops. The final judging phase enables students to showcase their progress through social media and livestream channels.

RM64,000 prize pool
This year’s prizes are also doubled to further reward ingenuity amongst the youth and winning teams will stand a chance to win cash prizes from a RM64,000 prize pool.

“The pandemic has not deterred us from our steadfast commitment to empower the youth of our nation through the Toyota Eco Youth program. With every problem comes an opportunity and this pandemic has enabled us to circumnavigate these obstacles to digitalize the program mechanics to be online,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “This move is in line with our progressive approach that enables TEY to continuously develop the youth despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.”

Since its inception, UMW Toyota Motor has invested more than RM7 million on the program. It hopes that students benefiting from this program can become ambassadors in the future to advocate environmental sustainability and overcome mobility limitations.

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Road-legal Lamborghini Huracan STO draws on motorsport heritage

The Huracan Super Trofeo EVO that is run in Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s one-make race series is now replicated as a road-homologated super sportscar in the new Huracan STO. Priced from 249,412 euros (about RM1.21 million), first deliveries will start in early 2021.

“The Huracan STO is the purest incarnation of Lamborghini Squadra Corse heritage, directly transferring technologies from the Huracan Super Trofeo EVO and drawing on the Huracan GT3 EVO’s unique accomplishment of winning three consecutive times in the Daytona 24 hours,” said Automobili Lamborghini’s new Chairman & CEO, Stefano Domenicali.

“The Huracan STO delivers all the excitement of a beautifully balanced, lightweight and aerodynamically superior super sportscar, mirroring the driving feeling and exhilaration of Super Trofeo, and perfectly set up for the world’s most demanding tracks but created for the road. The extensive technical solutions and intelligence gained from both our Super Trofeo and GT3 programs has been refined and embodied in the Huracán STO, allowing the pilot to experience the emotions of a racing driver, daily, in a road-legal Lamborghini super sportscar able to take lap records,” added Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer.

Aerodynamic superiority
The Huracan STO has an entirely new exterior design, revising the familiar Lamborghini profile to optimize airflow. Inspired by the racing cars, the Huracan STO reflects the technology transfer in every aesthetic detail.

Every aspect of the design draws on the aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight technologies demanded in motorsports. While the Centro Stile department focussed on aesthetic excellence, Lamborghini’s R&D and Squadra Corse departments optimized the car to ensure the best driving performance.

The bonnet, fenders and the front bumper are a single unit referred to as the ‘cofango’ (a combination of the Italian words for bonnet and gender – cofano and parafango). Inspired by the Miura and more recent Sesto Elemento, it is not only lightweight but also a time-saving access feature in motorsports.

New air ducts on the front bonnet increase airflow through the central radiator to improve engine cooling as well as helping generate downforce. The cofango also incorporates a new front splitter, directing airflow to the newly designed underbody of the car and to the rear diffuser.

The cofango is shaped to push the airflow on top of the front fenders, which incorporate louvres to maximize airflow exiting from the wheelhouse, reducing pressure inside and increasing the front downforce. The side profile of the cofango directs airflow around the front wheels, reducing drag.

NACA air intake
A new rear fender derived from the Super Trofeo EVO achieves both reduction of the front area of the car and consequently the drag, while increasing rear downforce and the car’s overall aerodynamic efficiency. A NACA air intake integrated into the STO’s rear fender serves as an engine air intake, with the shortened duct allowing a 30% decrease in static pressure losses.

The revised rear cover design features an integrated air scoop to improve air-cooling at the rear compartment. Dedicated air deflectors, integrated in the rear bonnet’s frame, manage the significant incoming airflow from the snorkel according to the temperature regulation needs of the engine and exhaust outlet.

An integrated ‘shark fin’ on the rear panel improves the dynamic abilities of the STO, particularly when cornering. In such conditions, the incoming airflow has a yaw angle, and the different pressure levels generated by the two sides of the fin create a positive effect on yaw stability. The fin also helps straighten airflow onto the wing, increasing wing efficiency during cornering.

Adjustable rear wing
A manual, easily adjusted aero set-up of the new rear wing optimizes aerodynamic balance and drag resistance according to track characteristics. A single slotted wing with double airfoil allows the front part of the airfoil to rotate into three positions to enhance rear downforce. The aero balance of the car can be varied by 13% to adapting to different driving styles and conditions.

The new front brake cooling ducts are dedicated to cooling the discs and calipers of the new CCM-R brakes, working in conjunction with the cofango air-louvres that extract hot air from the front wheelhouses. Additional air intakes including on the underbody, and optimized nolders, are located at the rear.

All the efforts have given the Huracan STO the highest level of downforce in its class. Overall airflow efficiency is improved by 37% and a significant downforce increase of 53% is reached over the Huracan Performante.

Lightweight approach
The Huracan STO uses carbonfibre in more than 75% of its exterior panels, benefiting from complex structures produced as a single component for increased integrity while also reducing weight via less fixing points.

The lightweight technologies include a carbonfibre ‘sandwich’ technique utilized in the aerospace industry. Thanks to this technology, 25% less carbonfibre material is used while maintaining the same structural rigidity. With a dry weight of 1,339 kgs, the Huracan STO’s weight is reduced by 43 kgs compared to the already lightweight Huracan Performante.

Contributing to the weight reductions are a windscreen 20% lighter than the Huracan Performante, and magnesium rims. The rims are fitted with bespoke Bridgestone Potenza tyres, available in two versions: one road-focused, the other more track-oriented.

Squadra Corse at its heart
The V10 naturally aspirated engine of the Huracán EVO and Super Trofeo produces 640 bhp/565 Nm. It has been calibrated for a very sporty and responsive racing feel, with a direct pedal-to-throttle feeling and improved engine sound sharpness at high revs. The gearchange speed has been further increased to provide a highly responsive and rapid gearshift.

With an increased wheel track, stiffer suspension bushing, specific anti-roll bars and Lamborghini’s MagneRide 2.0, rear-wheel steering, and a more direct and fixed steering ratio, this car has been designed for a race environment.

With a weight to power ratio of 2.09 kgs/bhp, claimed acceleration from 0 – 100km/h is 3 seconds with braking from 100 km/h – 0 in 30 metres. On a road where speed limits are non-existent, the driver will be able to take it up as high as 310 km/h, it is claimed.

Interior designed for purpose
The interior of the Huracan STO reflects the lightweight persona of the exterior, as evident in the extensive use of carbonfibre features throughout the cockpit, including the sport seats. Even the carpets are removed and replaced by floor mats in carbonfibre, and the fully carbonfibre lightweight door panels use the door latch as an opener.

New Human-Machine Interface (HMI) graphics feature on the touchscreen where the driver can easily manage the car’s functions. A fully connected telemetry system allows drivers on racetracks to monitor and record their performance and to analyze the data via the Lamborghini UNICA app.

As with every Lamborghini, customers can fully personalize both the exterior and interior via the Ad Personam personalization program. Virtually limitless paint and trim combinations as well as race-style vinyls allow for personalized livery. An example as shown in the pictures of the launch car has Blu Laufey and Arancio California which emphasises the Huracan STO’s young and sporty racing spirit.

Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 to deliver ‘purest track experience’

First details and pictures of the new Subaru BRZ

Subaru’s all-new BRZ sportscar has been uncovered today at the Thermal Club Raceway in California and it comes with more power and better handling while retaining the original fundamentals of low weight, ultra-low centre of gravity, with precise steering and sharp handling.

Boxer engine gets more power, more torque
Running counter to the current trend of power over precision, the new BRZ maintains its simple concept with everyday comfort and practicality. It continues with a Boxer engine of 2.4 litres displacement, now producing 228 bhp, which is positioned lower than before, with a claim of the centre of gravity being on par with exotic hypercars. The naturally aspirated Boxer engine redlines at 7,000 RPM and has a 15% increase in torque.

Both manual and automatic transmissions will be available, with six ratios. The automatic transmission comes with a new Sport mode designed for more aggressive driving. It allows for more rapid downshifts with automatic throttle blipping and utilizes yaw sensors to hold the transmission in a lower gear during hard cornering to maximize performance.

Evolutionary, modernized design
The evolutionary styling is focused and functional aerodynamic details. The tidy coupe design is around 30 mm longer and about 12 mm lower than its predecessor. This gives a low and wide frontal area set off by large functional air intakes.

The grille is set low and capped by proud fender arches that allow just enough room for suspension points. A narrowed greenhouse accentuates the bold fender flares and the roofline features a subtle ‘double bubble’ appearance, a nod to vintage racing cars.

The aggressive design flows into bold front fenders with a large side vent. The functional side vent reduces drag by ducting air from under the bonnet and fenders. The released air is directed to a side sill spoiler that creates downforce at speed. A small fin at the back of the rear wheelarch also assists in airflow adding stability at speed.

At the rear, the large rear fenders and wider track flow into dual exhausts for a low and wide stance. This visual heft is lightened by a narrower greenhouse and rear hatch which flow into a dramatic upturned ducktail spoiler.

Utilizing aluminium for the roof, front fenders and bonnet, the new BRZ has an estimated curb weight of 1,280 kgs (the lightest version).

Driver-focussed interior
The new interior has every detail focused on the driver. A new customizable 7-inch digital dashboard is the focal point with the tachometer front and centre featuring an integrated digital speedometer readout. To the left of the tachometer is a programmable meter that can change to show amps, water temperature or a g-meter. When the BRZ is placed in track mode, the tachometer automatically shifts to a linear graph with a colour display that allows for a quick read.

The overall cabin design is contemporary and modular with improved driver amenities. The 8-inch infotainment touchscreen takes precedence in the centre stack and features the latest multimedia systems, including standard smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is also available, of course.

In keeping with its sportscar dynamics, the BRZ has a seating position that is low but features excellent sight lines. This is helped by the thin sections of the roof pillars which are made of high strength steel that ensures strength.

The 2+2 seating and folding rear seats within allow for the cargo area to be extended to take a mountain bike, golf clubs, or even four racing tyres and tools for track days.

Subaru Global Platform
The chassis takes full advantage of the ultra-low centre of gravity and high-strength body structure and near perfect weight distribution. The front suspension uses struts and coil springs to keep weight low. Using design elements from the Subaru Global Platform, the chassis has gained rigidity through a reinforced chassis mounting system, sub-frame architecture and other connection points.

Front lateral bending rigidity has been increased by 60% to improve turn-in and response. The front suspension features custom-designed MacPherson-type struts to optimize the low bonnet line while retaining a long stroke for ideal handling and ride quality. The double wishbone rear suspension system provides outstanding bump absorption to enhance tyre grip over varied surfaces.

For track driving, the Vehicle Stability Control traction and stability system offers the driver 5 different settings. The system has been redesigned to allow more input from the driver before it activates the traction system. For those who want full control, the system can be turned completely off.

Travis Pastrana gets the wildest Subaru WRX STi for new Gymkhana video series

New Vehicle Sales And Production Summary For October 2020

*Source: Monthly reports of Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA)*

♦ The upward trend seems to have flattened out with October’s Total Industry Volume (TIV) less than 1% higher (226 units) than the TIV for September. No doubt, the reduction in the cost of buying a new vehicle due to the government’s Sales Tax exemption incentive still helps encourage sales and when compared to the same month in 2019, this year was 5.2% better.

♦ The TIV for the period from January to October has almost reached 400,000 units, reached 398,159 units to be exact. With two months remaining to hit the MAA’s 470,000-unit forecast for 2020, can the monthly TIV for November and December average 36,000 units? Since July, it has been above 50,000 units.

♦ Of the 56,670 units registered, 86% were passenger vehicles (excluding pick-up trucks).

♦ The output from the plants rose more substantially to 58,631 units in October to meet the higher demand and to also build up stocks for the end of the year period. It is likely that December will see a rush to take delivery so as to enjoy the sales tax exemption, This would be unusual as many customers often want to defer to the new year.

♦ One thing that could dampen sales a bit would be the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. While the government is reluctant to impose a full-scale MCO like what we had in March and April when businesses had to shut down completely, there may be areas where stricter conditions are imposed, especially in the Klang Valley where there is the largest number of vehicles sales.

♦ The MAA does expect some softening of the market in the light of a broader impostion of the CMCO and says that members have reported a slowdown in showroom traffic. Nevertheless, many companies now have online facilities for customers to know more about products and then make bookings as well, so at least the initial phase of transactions has been addressed in the ‘new normal’.

Lexus LC500 Convertible Debuts in Malaysia – Priced at RM1,350,000

Lexus Malaysia has introduced its latest model – the LC500 Convertible. The model is the Japanese luxury car maker’s first convertible model to be officially for sale in Malaysia and is now the flagship model of the entire Lexus line-up in Malaysia.

The LC500 Convertible with its dramatic presence remains true to the defining features of the LF-LC concept car (shown above) that inspired it. Despite that, it still offers the very same design elements that make it a true Lexus, such as the signature low, sharp front design, 3-beam LED projector headlights and the now iconic Spindle Grille.

In true Lexus spirit, the LC500 Convertible oozes sophistication and brilliant engineering. Take the soft top convertible roof for example, it folds away in just 15 seconds and takes 16 seconds to fold back in place. It is operational at speeds of up to 50km/h, so in case it pours, which it does a lot in Malaysia, you don’t need to clumsily look for a place to stop, you just need to slow down for 16 seconds.

The soft top is also constructed from a four-layered material that includes three layers of fabric and a NVH deadening material. And despite it being designed to look great, operate quickly and lower the NVH levels of the cabin, the soft top is extremely lightweight. In fact, the Convertible model with all of its hydraulic roof mechanism, weighs just 90kg more than its coupe sibling.

The LC500 Convertible does however share the same powertrain with the coupe – a massive 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that puts out 470hp and 540Nm of torque. This impressive powertrain helps the LC500 Convertible see off the 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds while top speed is electronically limited to 270km/h.

You would think that such a massive engine would probably be a really thirsty one, as the two usually go hand in hand. But not with this car, Lexus claims that the LC500 Convertible returns a fuel efficiency level of 12.7 liters per 100km on the combined cycle. Lexus says that this is achieved in part by how the engine is supposedly designed, as well as the 10-speed Artificial Intelligence Shift Control transmission which studies your driving behavior and predicts which gear you should be in, hence creating a more efficient drivetrain that puts out power quicker with lesser effort.

And of course, being a Lexus, comfort is of top priority here, and the beautiful cabin features the very best of refinement and quality. The semi-aniline leather seats are beautifully crafted and hug you ever so gently and are easily among the most comfortable seats in their class.

In terms of creature comforts, there’s a 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen display that is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Just in the driver’s line of sight sits a 8-inch Digital Combination Meter as well as a Heads-Up display. The entertainment system is courtesy of a Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System and sound is fed to the cabin through 13-speakers. And in true Lexus Omotenashi spirit, the system automatically adjusts the acoustic design based on the ambient sounds, and the sound remains crisp and consistent whether the roof is up or down.

The other engineering and design element that is supposed to keep the cabin serene is a unique transparent wind deflector located behind the rear seats (seen above) that helps reduce wind buffeting, keeping the cabin quiet at speeds of up to 60km/h.

The suspension of the LC500 Convertible too plays a huge role in creating a perfectly poised, comfortable ride quality. Called the Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension, this is not just your regular suspension system but rather it offers 650 different levels of damping force. Which basically means it is ready for just about any type of road you can throw at it.

And of course it comes with all the safety systems you would expect of such a car. Called the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+), the system comes with a Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams. It also offers six airbags and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. All of this is offered as standard.

The Lexus LC500 Convertible can be yours for a cool RM1,350,000 after sales and service tax without insurance. Buy this car and you will enjoy a five-year unlimited mileage warranty plus free service throughout the five years or for the first 100,000km. As long as you continue to service your car at a authorised Lexus service centre. Buy it now and you will receive your LC500 Convertible by February 2021.

Next generation of Honda Civic revealed! (w/VIDEO)

The Civic, Honda’s first global car, may not be of interest to motorists in Japan these days but elsewhere, it remains a popular sedan as it always has been. In fact, in the US market, it has been America’s bestselling car, according to Urban Science DataHub which tracked retail sales data for all passenger cars sold in that market from 2016 – 2020 (September).

So it’s not surprising that Honda has given the US the honour of revealing the next generation of the Civic to the world. The first glimpse of the 11^th generation took place on Twitch, a livestreaming entertainment service. Honda chose this channel for its reveal, leveraging its strong presence in esports and gaming which has a large segment of young buyers.

*The current 10th generation which has been in the Malaysian market since June 2016.*

The prototype version, with a fresh, sporty and upscale new look, was finished in a striking Solar Flare Pearl colour. The new model is said to be fully redesigned and has an upgraded body and chassis and, of course, more advanced technology, particularly in the area of safety. The line-up will continue to have sedan, hatchback, Si and Type R variants.

The 11th-generation Civic draws inspiration from timeless elements of Honda design, including a low and wide stance, low beltline, clean and sophisticated detailing, and an open and airy cabin. The new generation will build on the appeal of its predecessor with an even sportier, fun-to-drive new chassis, more powerful and fuel-efficient powertrains, along with multiple new Civic-first features and technologies.

Exterior design modernised again
In redesigning Civic, stylists and engineers revisited timeless design concepts of past Civics, focusing on Honda’s essential and human-centered ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ philosophy. This dictates that the purpose of technology and design is to serve the needs of the driver and passengers.

Carrying forward the low centre-of-gravity form of the 10^th generation, including its low overall height and low hip point, the designers applied the classic Civic design ethos of ‘thin and light’ body design with a low bonnet and front fenders. The low horizontal beltline grounds the body, accentuating the wheels and tyres, and enabling an expansive and airy greenhouse with exceptional outward visibility.

In executing its concept, the team also made substantial changes to the Civic’s upper body design to maximize visibility for the driver and passengers, including moving the front roof pillars rearward relative to the driver, to place them more in the visual periphery. The side mirrors have also been relocated to the doors for a clearer view through the front side windows.

The face of the new Civic has a clean and sophisticated look, emphasizing a low and wide stature with strong horizontal elements, including offsetting the upright grille below the headlights. In profile, the Civic’s greenhouse is moved rearward on the body, elongating the bonnet for a more premium side view. An upswept R-line carries through the rear fenders to the rear reflectors adds a feeling of motion even when standing still.

Classic interior design
In similar fashion, the new Civic will get a dramatic interior makeover as it reimagines the clean and uncluttered lines of earlier generations of Civic, all while incorporating modern design elements and technology.

The instrument panel is free of visual clutter, minimizing cut lines and breaks to give drivers a clean and clear view of the road ahead. Stretching the width of the dash is a honeycomb mesh accent, which serves not only as a design element, but also conceals the visually busy air vents.

The 11^th generation will introduce multiple new Civic-first technologies, including an all-digital meter cluster and a new 9-inch full-HD Display Audio touchscreen on the low-set instrument panel.

Advancing safety performance
Depending on market, the new Civic will come with many new active and passive safety systems, including an upgraded suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technologies. It also has an advanced new version of Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure with both improved occupant and pedestrian collision protection.

North America first
North America, where the car is to be built, will be the first to get the new Civic during the first quarter of 2021. As for ASEAN, it’s always dependent on the product planning at the Thai plant and it is known that camouflaged prototypes are already running there. The current Accord took quite a while to get here but the next Civic could well be launched here by the time the current generation is 5 years old in this market next June.

Malaysian Army chooses Honda Civic for Military Police duties

MINI Vision Urbanaut concept

Tomorrow’s MINI will continue to have its practical minimal footprint but offer yet more interior space and versatility. To preview some of the ideas that MINI designers are exploring, the brand used the BMW Group’s #NEXTGen event to present the MINI Vision Urbanaut concept.

The purist mono-volume design of the Vision Urbanaut gives new meaning to the ‘Creative Use of Space’ approach. In signature MINI fashion, the wheels are positioned at the outer corners of the body, with short overhangs rounding off a compact and agile appearance.

In fact, the wheels are used as visual highlights of the concept car. Finished in the colour Ocean Wave, a turquoise blue which sparks associations with the beach and the sound of the sea, the abstract Union Jack profile of the wheels reminds one of the British heritage. Their shape recalls skateboards, further highlighting the car’s nimbleness and non-conformist MINI twist.

Evolution of MINI design elements
The front end represents a clear evolution of two time-honoured MINI design icons – the headlights and radiator grille. Positioned under a milled aluminium structure with slotted openings, the headlights are only visible when switched on. Thanks to their multicolour dynamic matrix design they can display different multi-coloured graphics, which creates a new form of communication between the car and the outside world.

The enclosed grille itself is octagonal in shape, representing an evolution of the traditional hexagonal form. Since the Vision Urbanaut does not have a combustion engine requiring cooling air, the grille assumes a new function as an ‘intelligence panel’ for automated driving.

As with the headlights, multicolour dynamic matrix rear lights behind milled aluminium covers. The distinctive, convex surfaces also pay homage to previous MINIs and the classic Mini. One small detail – the contour of the rear windows – references the form of the front grille and underscores the car’s stylistic consistency.

The windows show a pattern in body colour, fading in a gradient from bottom to top. This creates a harmonious transition from the vehicle body to the windows and roof. The pattern also provides a certain amount of privacy without having to darken the windows; the interior remains bright.

Designed from inside out
As an innovative space concept, the Vision Urbanaut was designed from the inside out. The designers created the spacious interior experience before developing the exterior, using floor plans, pieces of furniture plus wooden scale models to provide an indication of size. Over the course of the project, augmented reality was employed to create a digital model, which was then systematically optimised.

Unusually tall for a MINI, but only 4.46 metres in length, the Vision Urbanaut provides an interior space that can be used in many different ways and offers a whole new ease of movement inside the car.

The interior thus provides the ideal environment in which to go on a journey but is also the aim of the journey. Having arrived at the chosen destination, it can transform into a living room in just a few simple steps. Occupants enter the innovative cabin through a large sliding door in the side of the car. The cutting-edge slide and swivel mechanism is the ideal design for urban driving conditions where space is at a premium. There are no other doors on the driver’s side or front passenger side.

Extremely variable layout
An extremely variable 4-seat layout provides the basis for the bright interior. The two front seats are designed to rotate, while the backrests for the generously sized seat surface in the rear can be folded manually (left rear seat) and turned around (right rear seat).

When the car is stationary, the dashboard lowers and the driver’s area becomes a comfortable seating corner – the ‘daybed’. Added to which, the windscreen can be opened upwards when stationary to create a kind of ‘Street Balcony’.

The darker environs of the cabin’s rear section provide a quieter space – the Cosy Corner. This area invites passengers to enjoy some time to themselves. With the door open, it is even possible to sit on the floor. A small integrated table is the car’s centre point, a place where passengers can interact.

The MINI Token is the centrepiece of the Vision Urbanaut’s experience worlds. It is roughly the same size as a worry stone and activates the three preconfigured MINI moments – Chill, Wanderlust and Vibe – when placed in purpose-designed slots in the table.

MINI Moments
“MINI sees its future self primarily as an enabler of and companion for unforgettable times – what we might call ‘MINI moments’. The MINI Vision Urbanaut uses three curated MINI moments – ‘Chill’, ‘Wanderlust’ and ‘Vibe’ – to present a wide range of possible usage scenarios,” said Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design.

“The Chill moment, for example, invites you to catch a breath and pause in the here and now. The car becomes a kind of retreat, a haven where you can relax – or work with full concentration – during a journey. Wanderlust is the only MINI moment where the MINI Vision Urbanaut is being driven or driving with automated driving functions. The Vibe moment puts time with other people at centre stage – in every way,” he explained.

The exterior and interior change to reflect the MINI moment at hand. Even the wheels, transparent and illuminated from the inside, change their appearance according to the selected MINI moment.

All-electric powertrain, of course
Nothing is mentioned of the powertrain but, as would be expected, it is a pure electric drive which would use the BMW Group’s advanced technologies in electrified powertrains. Given more mention is the Vision Urbanaut’s responsible use of resources. As well as maximum space within a small footprint and the all-electric drive system, the Vision Urbanaut is committed to a responsible approach to materials. This is achieved not only by reducing the number of components in the exterior and interior design, but also by enabling dual functions such as the dashboard/daybed.

In addition to the use of recyclates, this also means ensuring that the design is free of chrome and leather while using recycled materials. The dominant material in the interior is knitted textile, and the use of cork on the steering wheel and sections of the floor adds a special touch thanks to its natural feel, and ensures an authentically pleasant interior climate.

MINI ideas that were just for laughs on each year’s first day of April

Hyundai Motor Group and NVIDIA develop advanced connected car platform for all models

Hyundai Motor Group and NVIDIA have developed the NVIDIA DRIVE ‘connected car’ platform which will be incorporated across all new models from the Hyundai, Kia and Genesis brands from 2022 onwards.

The technical cooperation with NVIDIA, a well known name in the computer industry, will enable Hyundai Motor Group to develop high-performance ‘connected car’ computing systems for its next-generation models.

In-vehicle infotainment systems
From entry-level to premium vehicles, all future models will have in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems powered by NVIDIA DRIVE as standard. This includes a hardware and software stack, enabling the Korean carmaker’s IVI systems to combine audio, video, navigation, connectivity and artificial intelligence (AI)-based ‘connected car’ services.

Using the high-performance, energy-efficient NVIDIA DRIVE platform for its future models will allow the three brands to offer customers continuously enhanced in-vehicle AI user experiences. This will see a feature-rich, software-defined AI user experience that is perpetually updateable – and without the owner having to go to a service centre too.

Already in Genesis models
Hyundai Motor Group has been working with NVIDIA for the past 5 years. In fact, the NVIDIA DRIVE platform already underpins the advanced IVI systems found in the Genesis GV80 and G80.

“At Hyundai Motor Group, we are committed to delivering greater value, safety, functionality and enjoyment over the lifetime of the car,” said Paul Choo, Senior Vice-President of Electronics Tech Unit at Hyundai Motor Group. “The NVIDIA DRIVE platform is proven – it is scalable, energy-efficient and has the performance to support our next generation of software-defined vehicles.”

The companies have also been collaborating on an advanced digital cockpit, due to be launched in late 2021. The relationship will go further with the development of foundations for IVI systems that can support a wide range of future apps and features for all models.

“NVIDIA brought consumer electronic functionality and a graphics-rich user interface to infotainment systems more than a decade ago,” said Ali Kani, Vice-President of Autonomous Vehicles at NVIDIA. “Now, we are once again transforming these systems through the power of AI, helping Hyundai Motor Group increase safety and value, along with enhancing customer satisfaction, throughout the lifetime of the vehicle.”

Creation of new ccOS
The partnership with NVIDIA will enable Hyundai Motor Group to roll out its new ‘connected car operating system’ (ccOS) in future models. Developed in-house by Hyundai Motor Group, the new ccOS will bring together the large amount of data generated by the vehicle and its network of sensors, as well as external connected car data centres, enhancing motoring experiences.

The ccOS will use NVIDIA’s software frameworks to implement core IT competencies. It will provide ‘high-performance computing’, using NVIDIA GPUs to process large amounts of data inside and outside the vehicles and optimize system performance to support advanced IT technologies, such as deep learning.

‘Seamless computing’ will also be possible, providing uninterrupted service regardless of the vehicle’s online or offline state. The vehicle connects with the surrounding infrastructure and smart devices to bring the user experience from external devices into the vehicle environment.

Furthermore, recent breakthroughs in AI and accelerated computing have opened the door for next-generation vehicles to benefit from new functionality, capabilities and enhanced safety features that can be added after the car is purchased. With a centralized, software-defined computer architecture, future vehicles can be updated throughout their lives to feature the latest in advanced digital cockpit technology, as well as other features.

VR technology enhances vehicle development processes for Hyundai and Kia

Pre-owned vehicles Certified by Bentley now available from Bentley Kuala Lumpur

Besides offering brand new Bentley cars, Bentley Kuala Lumpur – the British brand’s official retail partner in Malaysia – now also offers pre-owned units. These are cars which are ‘Certified by Bentley’, a global programme which is said to set the benchmark for exclusive pre-owned vehicles.

50% of Bentleys registered are pre-owned
An estimated 85% of all Bentleys ever sold still on the road and in Malaysia alone, pre-owned Bentleys are said to make up about half of the total number of vehicles of the brand registered locally each year. This being the case, it has made sense for Bentley to also become involved in pre-owned units, besides its attention to aftersales services for existing owners.

“We believe the introduction of Certified by Bentley in Malaysia is an opportunity for us to extend the Bentley ownership experience to a wider number of potential customers,” said Jerry Lee, MD of Wearnes Quest, which operates Bentley Kuala Lumpur.

The Certified by Bentley programme has rigorous requirements to ensure that each vehicle is prepared to an impeccable standard. This includes a detailed inspection in accordance with Bentley standards by factory-trained technicians.

Certificate of Authenticity and warranty
A Certificate of Authenticity accompanies each vehicle so the new owner will have full details of its history, particularly with regards to maintenance. The comprehensive 12-month warranty, covering mechanical, electrical and consequential failure, can be further extended for peace of mind.

Similar quality assurance and ownership experience
“A vehicle Certified by Bentley provides the same assurance in quality and ownership experience that a new car customer would have. When a customer selects a Certified by Bentley car, they are making an investment in a brand that has always crafted extraordinary vehicles,” said Mark Keeping, Head of Pre-Owned at Bentley Motors.

Additionally, the owner gains access to the benefits that Bentley owners typically enjoy such as invitations to exclusive events around the world and a Bentley Factory Tour, along with a subscription to the Bentley Magazine.

Only electric power for Bentley vehicles by the end of this decade

The 2021 German Car of the Year is a… Japanese car

The first widely recognised Car of the Year event (and perhaps the first one in the world too) was the European Car of the Year which began in 1964. Journalists from a number of countries in Europe collaborated to pick a model from each year’s new offerings as the Car of the Year (COTY), and the event continues to this day.

Since then, there have been numerous COTY events all over the world, some by publications and websites and some by motoring media groups. And there is even a ‘World Car of the Year’ award now although some models may be specific to certain regions.

For the country COTY, it was usually the case that a model from a brand of that country would be the winner. But in recent times, this has been changing: the Volkswagen Golf, for example, was the first foreign model to win the ‘Japan Car of the Year’ title while in Korea, a Toyota Camry was its COTY one year.

First time for a non-German model
Now in Germany, a non-German model has been voted ‘German Car of the Year’ 2021. It’s the Honda e, the Japanese company’s first battery electric vehicle for Europe. This is a first and certainly an impressive achievement considering that the German auto industry produces many well engineered products. The Honda e also won in the ‘New Energy’ category.

The German Car of the Year awards are decided by a jury of leading German car journalists. The panel tests and reviews the latest cars, ranking them according to their usability, driving characteristics, market relevance and level of innovation. The winners of 5 categories – Compact, Premium, Luxury, New Energy and Performance – are then assessed again to decide an overall winner.

“For Honda e to be the first Japanese car to be awarded ‘German Car of the Year’ is a great honour, and one we are incredibly proud to receive,” said Katsuhisa Okuda, COO & President of Honda Motor Europe. “The Honda e is a perfect example of a product with a unique design, featuring cutting-edge technology and advanced intelligent connectivity to keep owners connected with their everyday life. We are very thankful for this award.”

The electrically-powered Honda was launched earlier this year and is represents Honda’s commitment to electrify 100% of its mainstream models for Europe by 2022. The German COTY award is just one of many accolades it has received in 2020. These include the top honour in the Red Dot Design Awards; Autocar UK’s ‘Britain’s Best Car’ Awards 2020 in the ‘Best Car Tech’ category; and ‘City/Small Car of the Year’ in the News International Motor Awards 2020.

222-km range, 30 minutes recharging
The Honda e has a powertrain producing up 100 kW (equal to 136 ps) or 113 kW (154 ps) with 315 Nm of torque. With a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be recharged to 80% in 30 minutes, it has a claimed range of up to 222 kms, depending on driving conditions.

There are two variants of the model which is currently only sold in Europe and Japan. Prices in the UK range from £27,160 to £29,660 (about RM147,370 – RM161,000). The prices include a UK government Plug-in Car Grant discount amounting to £3,000 (RM16,300) for the model.

Visit www.honda.com.my to know more about Honda’s electrified models available in Malaysia.

Honda e starts Honda’s electrification strategy in Europe

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