To own a Rolls-Royce would be a dream for most people but for those who can make their dreams come true, personalisation of the car is now a very common thing. Rolls-Royce says that virtually every car they have sold in recent years has had some degree of personalisation provided by their Bespoke division.
Some owners may prefer to have the services of other companies and for this, they can contact SPOFEC, a unit in the NOVITEC Group which can refine the cars further. They can now offer their services for the latest Ghost, the sportiest interpretation of a Rolls-Royce sedan ever. In fact, SPOFEC works only on Rolls-Royce cars, which is how its name came about (SPirit OF ECstasy).
The company has developed a customization range for the car which gives the Ghost even greater driving dynamics and an even more extravagant appearance. For example, SPOFEC engine tuning raises the output of the twin-turbo 12-cylinder engine to 685 bhp (114 bhp more) and also bumps peak torque to 958 Nm. This cuts the sprint time from 0 – 100 km/h to 4.5 seconds although the top speed remains limited to 250 km/h.
To match the improved driving dynamics, SPOFEC gives the new Ghost an even more athletic design with carbonfibre bodywork components that feature sporty and elegant styling. SPOFEC forged wheels with a diameter of 22 inches developed in cooperation with US rim manufacturer Vossen fill out the wheel wells perfectly. With the SPOFEC suspension module, the ride height is lowered by about 40 mm.
A standard peak output of 571 bhp/850 Nm mean that there are quite a few reserves in the 6.75-litre engine of the Ghost. SPOFEC engine specialists have programme the plug-and-play N-TRONIC module for the electronic engine control unit which introduces new mapping for injection and ignition. There is also a moderate increase in the boost pressure.
SPOFEC optionally underscores these significantly improved dynamics with a more thrilling sound as well. To this end, the company developed a stainless sport exhaust with actively controlled exhaust flaps. It enables the driver to select either a decidedly discreet or a very powerful exhaust note from inside the cockpit by remote control.
For a sporty-elegant touch, the designers at SPOFEC developed tastefully styled and aerodynamically efficient bodywork components for both wheelbase variants of the Ghost. The components are produced from lightweight yet high-strength carbonfibre.
The SPOFEC-designed front fascia gives a fresh face with large air intakes making for a visually striking appearance. The front end also generates less front-axle lift at high speeds and thus further optimizes the directional stability. The new aerodynamic-enhancement component optionally also comes with LED position markers and perfectly transitions to the likewise new SPOFEC front fenders. These fenders feature a distinctive air outlet behind the wheel arch on either side.
The wheels have 9 pairs of twin-spokes extending all the way to the outer flange, characterizing the SPOFEC SP2 design. In sizes 9.5Jx22 at the front and 10.5Jx22 on the rear axle, they are fitted with tyres of sizes 265/35 ZR 22 and 295/30 ZR 22 and optimally fill out the available space under the wheel arches.
The SPOFEC CAN-Tronic suspension module is specifically calibrated to work with the 22-inch tyres. At speeds up to 140 km/h, the new programming of the Ghost’s air suspension lowers the vehicle by about 40 mm compared to the production car. At higher speeds, the vehicle body automatically reverts to the standard level.
Petron stations around Malaysia have organize the ‘Jom Bantu Food Bank and Community Table’ for communities affected by the pandemic. Inspired by the message “Take what you need, Give what you can,” these community pantries located in over Petron service stations aim to provide those in need with easy access to essential items while giving others an opportunity to help vulnerable sectors.
In a show of solidarity and support, local residents and customers have been contributing to these community tables, while Petron employees donated cash and other items. In Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Petron Jalan Ulam North service station supported local farmers by sourcing fresh fruit and vegetables from them.
“We source fresh fruits and vegetables from our local, rural farmers as a way to support local businesses. We then give it to the people in need. The 2-in-1 initiative is our way to help the public during this pandemic,” said Philomena Munang, dealer of Petron Ulam North.
Basic and essential items for free
The community tables are stocked with rice, sugar, salt, flour, cooking oil, biscuits, eggs, noodles, canned food, dried food, toilet paper, and soap, among other basic items. These will be available at the stations and free for those who might need them.
In Kedah, Petron Jalan Lunas FI offered ‘whole fresh chicken’ to the community. “I strongly support the Petron Foodbank initiative to help those who are in need. We came up with an idea to give away ‘whole chicken’ in addition to the canned food and dry food stock on the food bank shelves. At least, they can enjoy a chicken meal with their family and put a big smile on their children’s faces,” said Mohamad Zaini bin Yahya, dealer of Petron Jalan Lunas FI.
“With the current pandemic situation, with many losing their jobs, we are trying our best to contribute to society. We have participated in the Jom Bantu Food Bank initiative since 3 July. At Petron Sg. Besi Toll Southbound, we provide food resources such as rice, cooking oil, flour, eggs and many more to those in need. We also receive donations from the public to support our foodbank program,” added Sukinah Zulkifli of Petron Sg Besi Toll Southbound.
“This is the second year that we have set up food banks at our service stations. We are happy to partner with our dealers in showing compassion and exercising our corporate social responsibility. We also thank our many customers who have contributed to this cause,” said Choong Kum Choy, Head of Retail and Commercial Business of Petron Malaysia.
Collaboration with other parties
Petron also collaborated with KPJ Healthcare (KPJ) in launching eight KPJ food banks at selected stations to further reached out to those deserving people under this initiative. The first set-up by KPJ in Petron New Larkin opened on July 23 and was well received by the community.
“The response has been overwhelming. The food bank initiative allowed us to connect with others, creating stronger community bonds while contributing to society. It’s not all about money nor popularity. It’s about being able to be that someone who makes a person look forward to tomorrow with hope,” said Azura Abu Bakar, Dealer of Petron New Larkin Johor Bahru.
Petron stations in Johor are also working with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Johor for the collection of food items at 10 Petron service stations. The food collection invites the public to donate food and essential items, which will then be distributed to targeted groups by the ministry’s state division.
“We hope to reach more beneficiaries through the concerted efforts of our dealers, KPJ, MDTCA Johor, and our employees so that no one is left behind. This is our humble contribution to help ease the burden of those in need. We are in this together and we will try to help in any way we can,” said Mr. Choong.
Earlier in May, Petron launched a donation drive allowing PMiles card members to donate points to B40 families in need of groceries. Under the ‘PetronMyKasih Jom Derma’ donation programme, each P-Miles point donated will be converted into cash and vested into MyKasih Foundation. The programme will run until August 31, 2021.
Now in its 18th year, the annual World Car of the Year (WCOTY) Awards for 2022 has 17 vehicles eligible provisionally, based on information available at this time. The list may be updated until December 1, 2021 when it becomes final, and no further changes can be made. The World Car Awards are administered by a not-for-profit association, under the guidance of a Steering Committee as well as a group of individual advisors.
The 2022 awards season and the ‘Road to the World Car Awards’ journey was to have officially started at the New York International Auto Show this month but the motorshow was cancelled. A new highlight of the 2022 awards program will be the debut of the World Electric Vehicle of the Year award. This new award, which supersedes the World Green Car award, is intended to recognize, support and celebrate the global transition to electrically-powered vehicles that is now underway and the efforts of automakers around the world in developing these climate-conscious vehicles.
The models eligible for WCOTY must be produced in volumes of at least 10,000 units/year; must be priced below the luxury-car level in their primary markets; and must be ‘on-sale’ in at least 2 major markets (eg China, Europe, India, Japan, Korea, Latin America, or the USA) on at least two separate continents within the period January 1, 2021 and March 30, 2022.
Some of the contenders for the 2022 World Car of the Year. Even entry-level models have a chance to win the overall award, as the Mazda2 did in 2008 and the Volkswagen Polo in 2010.
For the 2022 event, there will again be categories as well for World Performance Car, World Urban Car, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year, as well as World Luxury Car class, depending on type and pricing.
The eligible models on the current list for the 2022 WCOTY are: Audi Q4 e-tron/Q5 Sportback e-tron BMW i4 Citroen C5 X Genesis G70 Honda Civic Hyundai Ionic 5 | Hyundai Staria | Hyundai Tucson Jeep Grand Cherokee/Grand Cherokee L Kia EV6 | Kia Sportage Lexus NX Mitsubishi Outlander Subaru BRZ | Subaru Outback Toyota Corolla Cross | Toyota GR86
Next week will see Extreme E’s third X Prix of Season 1 which is the Arctic X Prix in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland on August 28. It will be the first ever international motorsport event to be staged in the country. The all-electric SUVs have been transported by the specially configured St Helena cargo ship as sea travel is less carbon intensive than air freight. The ship also acts as a research hub informing the world about the impacts of the climate crisis on our oceans (it even has a scientific laboratory onboard) as it goes from location to location.
The Ocean X Prix in Senegal, in May saw Rosberg X Racing (RXR) claim back-to-back victories to extend their championship lead, as they head the overall standings with 71 points. Although X44 topped the timesheets in qualifying once more, first-lap contact during the Final between Cristina Gutierrez and RXR’s Molly Taylor meant X44’s all-electric ODYSSEY 21 was forced to retire, seeing them finish in fourth place. Button’s JBXE team leapt up the standings to third following a strong showing in Senegal, after claiming third place despite Mikaela Ahlin-Kottulinsky picking up rear-wheel damage before the first corner of the concluding race of the weekend.
Expecting an unpredictable race
After the opening two races in Saudi Arabia and Senegal, mastering the conditions on what was once the mighty Russell Glacier, but which has now sadly receded and is rock salt, sediment-based terrain will provide a very different challenge for the drivers. “This feels like the most unpredictable race yet,” said Taylor. “The terrain is going to be really difficult for all the teams and it will be interesting to see how the first shakedown goes for everyone. This is undoubtedly the best thing about this series – every race location offers up a new set of challenges and I think Greenland is the most exciting yet.”
Nico Rosberg, founder and CEO of Rosberg X Racing with his two drivers after winning the second round in Senegal.
Asked whether RXR can make it a hat-trick of wins in Greenland, Founder Nico Rosberg said: “We could not have asked for a better start to the series with two wins from the first two races under our belt. But it would be foolish to come into this race predicting the same outcome for the team. We are working immensely hard to achieve another strong result in Greenland and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds across the weekend”.
X44 driver pairing Cristina Gutierrez and Sebastien Loeb showed their pace once again in Senegal, topping the qualifying standings before bad luck struck in the Final. Lewis Hamilton’s X44 team will be keen to convert their qualifying pace into a good result on raceday in Greenland as they are just 14 points behind RXR at the top of the table.
Each team has a crew consisting of one male and one female, and both have to take turns driving. This is the Hispano Suiza XITE ENERGY team with Oliver Bennett and Christine Giampaoli Zonca.
“I’m looking forward to getting behind the wheel again for X44” says Loeb. “One of the most exciting things about Extreme E for me is that each race is a new kind of challenge, and it’s going to be interesting finding out what it’s like to compete on this terrain. I was really proud of our performances in Senegal and in Saudi, but we had some bad luck in the Finals. I’m confident this time we can learn from what happened and make sure we get another podium finish.”
Injured Gutierrez will be ready for race
Teammate Cristina Gutierrez recently claimed victory at the Rally Kazakhstan but suffered injury fracturing two vertebrae, which has meant spending time recovering but she will be fit for Greenland. “I’m really excited to get back racing again in Greenland and to learn more about the work Extreme E is doing on the ground to address the climate crisis” she said. “Our team has learned a lot from the past two races and, despite the Final in Senegal not being what we hoped for, we will take the positives to ensure we come back fighting again for a win. For me, every race is another opportunity to learn and improve and I’m confident we can do even better this time.”
The team has been working hard behind the scenes to analyse the data from the Ocean X Prix, particularly on their starts to ensure they are not beaten off the line going into the all-important first corner.
The Swedish duo of JBXE
Third in the standings are JBXE which, after a strong showing in Senegal, leapt up the order following sixth place at the opening Desert X Prix in Saudi Arabia. World Rallycross Championship racer Kevin Hansen deputised for Button to partner Ahlin-Kottulinsky for the Ocean X Prix and the pair did not disappoint, finishing qualifying fourth fastest before winning Semi-Final 2 in commanding fashion to reach the Final. Contact at the start meant an early retirement, but JBXE were still able to claim a podium spot with third.
The two Swedes have been busy preparing for the Arctic X Prix. “Kevin and I worked hard to prepare ourselves the best we could ahead of Senegal, and same thing goes for Greenland” said Ahlin-Kottulinsky. “We’re trying to understand and find out as much info about the surfaces as we can ahead of the event, and also going through each part of the event to try to optimise every single thing. There is so little practice time ahead, so preparations are key to success.”
“We of course want to pick up where we left off,” added Hansen. “We had a really great first outing with JBXE and Mikaela in Senegal and particularly with me joining the team quite late, but I think we did a great job and we managed to get the car in the right direction.
“I think for Greenland it’s a completely new surface; it’s a completely new environmental issue that we will raise awareness of, and for sure the course will show that too. It’s a new challenge for everybody, but it’s nice to have one race under our belts and I’m super excited to go to Greenland and race in front of the of the glacier with a team that I now know. We are hungry to fight for the win so super excited to see how far we go,” he said.
The all-electric SUVs have been transported by the specially configured St Helena cargo ship as sea travel is less carbon intensive than air freight. The ship also acts as a research hub.
Bertone, ItalDesign and Pininfarina are well known names in the auto world, having been the design studios that created many exotic models – as concepts as well as production cars – for companies like Ferrari and Lamborghini. Also included among these historical Italian design houses is Ghia, which is owned by Ford today.
Ghia began as an independent company in 1916 and like companies involved in automobiles then, it specialized in coachwork (carrozzeria) and its founder Giacinto Ghia, was a master-builder of wooden models as well as skilled at styling. His talent was apparent in the models he styled with the best known said to be the Fiat 508 Ballilla sports coupe which was displayed at an exhibition in Turin in 1933. Back then, in the period before World War II, such companies were commissioned by carmakers to design some models for them.
The building that Ghia had was demolished during the war, and while it was being rebuilt in 1944, Ghia had a heart attack and died. His widow offered the company to a couple of good friends who saw the value of the Ghia name and chose to retain it for the name of the company. One of the two friends was a stylist named Felice Mario Boano whose designs were characterised by wheels which were enveloped.
Alfa Romeo 1900 Supersonic Conrero designed by Ghia in 1953.
How Ghia connected with Chrysler
In the early 1950s, Luigi Segre, a designer in the company as well as its owner from 1954, visited the USA and looked for new business opportunities there. He came in contact with Virgil Exner, who was a designer in the American company. Exner was also in charge of Chrysler’s showcar division and had to come up with models to display at motorshows. As he was busy with design work, he decided to let Ghia work on the showcars.
One of the many concept cars Ghia did for Chrysler. This was the Chrysler Ghia Streamline X Gilda which appeared at motorshows in 1955.
Segre got on well with Chrysler executives and his close relationship with Exner was strong. The partnership went on for 15 years, during which time Ghia produced numerous models. Eighteen of them even carried the company name as Chrysler Ghia Specials.
The Karmann-Ghia
The 1950s saw many more Ghia creations and one of the most famous was the Karmann-Ghia. Karmann was approached by Volkswagen in 1953 to come up with a sporty model which would use the Beetle platform. Volkswagen had in mind a roadster with an open top but when Karmann got Ghia to develop the model, the Italian studio came out with a coupe.
The Karmann-Ghia was unveiled at the 1955 Frankfurt International Motor Show. Ghia provided the Italian sportscar design, Karmann built it and Volkswagen provided the Beetle platform. The Karmann-Ghia was unveiled at the 1955 Frankfurt International Motor Show.
It took Ghia about 5 months to build a prototype and, in fact, the design team was able to come up with 3 designs within days of being told of the ‘unofficial’ project. Fortunately, when Karmann presented the coupe design to Volkswagen management, it was well received and a decision to build the car was made within the same day.
Karmann had planned to do 3,000 units but in the first year of production, 10,000 units of the car – named the Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (Type 14) were made and delivered to customers. Between 1955 and 1969, 485,987 units were produced and those still in existence today are cherished collectors’ items.
Unlike Bertone and Pininfarina, however, Ghia never ventured into making cars for sale in any significant way. It remained as a styling studio, offering some very memorable designs which are still admired today.
Although it is described as having ‘Italian styling’, Ghia is not mentioned in official Volvo documents related to the P1800 coupe. However, the Italian studio did have an indirect involvement in the design of the car driven by ‘The Saint’ in the 1960s TV series.
Ghia and the Volvo used by ‘The Saint’
One of these was the Volvo P1800 coupe, the car used by ‘The Saint’ in the TV series of the 1960s. The Volvo designers were busy working on the Amazon (121/122) at that time and had no time to think of a sports model. The consultant for Volvo, Helmer Pettersson, who was given the project decided to pass it on to his son, Pelle, who was working for Ghia as a designer at that time. And that is how Ghia got involved in that memorable car.
Ghia’s relationship with Chrysler came to an end in the early 1960s, by which time Exner had left and Segre passed away. Between 1963 and 1967, Ghia changed owners a few times and then Alejandro de Tomaso bought it over in 1967. De Tomaso was an arrogant and unforgiving man, perhaps due to his background from a wealthy and influential family in Argentina where he grew up. Under de Tomaso, Ghia lost many of its designers and one of them was Giorgio Giugiaro who would start his own company called ItalDesign and go on to also become a famous name in the auto world.
Alejandro de Tomaso bought over Ghia in 1967 and then sold it to Ford in 1973 when his company was in financial difficulties.
In August 1969, Lee Iacocca, who was a rising Ford executive destined to become company president, visited Ghia. The flamboyant Iacocca was impressed by de Tomaso’s sportscars and asked the studio to do some engineering prototypes and concept models, as well as some special editions.
One of the first projects was a running prototype of a small sportscar. It was adapted from the Ford Mustang, the car Iacocca was closely associated with. It was a smaller version and eventually became the Mustang II. Ghia’s designers took just 53 days to complete their assignment which also provided Ford with a new direction in thinking.
The ‘baby’ Ford Mustang II designed by Ghia came out in time for the energy crisis decade when the auto industry had to downsize its cars.
Ford buys over Ghia
The effort impressed Ford and in 1973, when de Tomaso ran into financial difficulties, the American carmaker decided to buy over Ghia. The idea was to have a professional studio as an external design house to work on specialized and advanced projects.
The man who headed it was Filipo Sapino who was a designer at a smaller Ford studio which was also located in Italy. Actually, he had also worked for Ghia earlier (as well as having a short stint with Pininfarina where he was involved in Ferrari styling) and by 1976, Sapino was given the position of Managing Director of Ghia. He would hold that position for the next 25 years.
Ghia versions of production models
Besides being used as an advanced styling studio by Ford, Ghia was also tasked to refine production models. These refinements were aimed at creating luxurious versions with higher-quality trim levels and equipment, mainly for models sold by Ford of Europe, starting with the Granada in 1974. This was followed by Ghia versions of popular models like the Escort, Capri and Cortina. The Ghia image was so strong that some Malaysians even referred to the late 1970s Escort Ghia as just a ‘Ford Ghia’. However, after 2010, Ford decided to drop the Ghia name and replaced it with ‘Titanium’ for the top versions.
The Ford Lynx Ghia was the last Ghia-badged model sold in Malaysia in the early 2000s.The Streetka was a showcar that Ford decided to turn into a production model.
Some Ghia concept models were also turned into production cars, usually sporty models. For example, the Barchetta was the basis for the reincarnation of the Ford Capri in the 1980s, a product which was made in Australia using a Mazda 323 platform. The Streetka, which started off as a concept, also became a production model.
Today, Ghia is not prominent outside Ford and is part of the global network of studios which share work and combine efforts and resources. It does however have a major role in designing concept cars, just as it did when Chrysler’s Exner first appointed the studio to do showcars in the 1950s and 1960s.
During the fourth quarter of 2020, Bugatti provided the answer to this question: What if the French carmaker built a radically light vehicle around the legendary 8.0-litre W16 engine? This led to a study that created the Bolide, a racetrack-oriented hyper sports car with a production-based W16 engine and minimal bodywork designed with maximum downforce in mind.
“The Bolide generated a great deal of enthusiasm and intrigue last year. Following its presentation, a significant number of enthusiasts and collectors asked us to develop the experimental Bolide as a production vehicle. I was absolutely amazed by the reactions and feedback from customers from all over the world,” recalled Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti.
“We therefore decided to make the Bolide a few-off in order to give 40 customers the opportunity to experience this incredible vehicle. Our team has now been developing a production model – the ultimate driving machine for the track,” he said. This will make the Bolide the most extreme configuration level of the W16 engine and a must-have for Bugatti collectors.
Development around the powertrain
With the very limited-edition production Bolide, Bugatti engineers and designers have created the most extreme vehicle concept ever to have been conceived around the powerful powertrain of the W16 engine with 4 turbochargers.
“For me, being able to turn the radical thought experiment of the Bolide into reality as a production vehicle is a dream come true as it is by far the most challenging project of my 17-year Bugatti career,” said Bugatti Design Director Achim Anscheidt. “The design of the Bolide follows the minimalist approach of the Bugatti style philosophy of ‘form follows performance’ and is additionally founded on an uncompromising lightweight construction approach. It pays homage to the brand’s glorious motorsport past of the in the 1920s.”
The numerous air ducts and delicate front end are more reminiscent of aerodynamically sophisticated Formula 1 cars than a hyper sportscar, and they dominate its look. The Bolide sits very low to the ground, with an air intake scoop on the roof and an ultra-sporty seat position. In combination with the striking rear diffuser, the dominant rear wing results in high downforce and therefore also optimum traction. As with other Bugatti models, the design team opted for a colour split, although the proportion of visible carbonfibre parts is greater than in other models.
Tuned for RON98 fuel
With the W16 engine as a symbol of the brand’s technology, Bugatti boasts one of the most extraordinary engines in automotive history. In the case of the Bolide experimental car, its power output of 1,850 ps is achieved by (among other things) the 110-octane racing fuel. However, for the production model, Bugatti engineers have tuned the engine to run on RON98 petrol, readily available worldwide. This will enable the car to be driven anywhere in the world.
The use of a lower octane brings the output down to 1,600 ps with 1,600 Nm of torque generated from 2,250 rpm. The engine has been tuned for higher revs per minute for use on the racetrack, alongside the intake and exhaust system to achieve even faster, more spontaneous, and extreme responsiveness. The cooling system for the turbochargers, engine, transmission, and differential are likewise modified for optimum power development.
Meeting FIA safety standards
While some extreme cars are not constrained by regulations, Bugatti’s designers and engineers who are currently refining the aerodynamics and handling, have developed the Bolide in line with international FIA safety standards. The safety features include HANS system compatibility, an automatic fire extinguishing system, pressure refueling with a fuel bladder, central wheel locking, and a 6-point safety belt system. All these guarantee maximum safety and sufficient comfort during the pure driving experience.
“The customers’ safety is always our top priority. We therefore decided to offer exclusive track days for this extreme vehicle in order to guarantee a safe environment at all times and gradually introduce the customers to the Bolide’s breathtaking performance,” said Mr. Winkelmann.
Optimizations in the areas of design, aerodynamics, quality, and safety give the production vehicle a curb weight of just 1,450 kgs, which translates to a weight-to-power ratio of 0kgs per ps when RON98 fuel is used.
Close to technical demonstrator
Thanks to maximum weight-saving, the drivers will be able to experience the full power and torque of the engine. Bugatti has kept the production car so close to its technical demonstrator, both visually and technically, while also enhancing the design, quality, and vehicle safety.
Delivery to the 40 customers who put their money down for this hyper sportscar is scheduled for 2024 at a net unit price of 4 million euros (almost RM20 million) each.
With the digitization of car interiors and the continuing addition of more and more electronic systems, the way a driver interacts with the systems and operates or adjusts them has been changing. For decades, mechanical systems used mechanically-actuated knobs and levers or pushbutton and rocker switches and generations of drivers have used them.
No more knobs and levers
With the new generation of cars, those knobs and switches have been disappearing, typically replaced by icons on touchscreens. No longer does a driver have to turn a knob to make the temperature higher or lower – it can be done by touching a display screen, just like on a smartphone. Or physical interaction might not even be necessary as many cars now have intelligent voice command systems.
The dashboard in today’s Nissan Ariya has digital and graphic displays with touchscreens, a big difference from the one in the Nissan Grand Livina of 2011 which had knobs, levers and rotary dials (below).
When developing the latest Nissan Ariya all-electric crossover, its designers and engineers didn’t just consider the ergonomics involved in reaching toward the dashboard. They were determined to create a new look and feel for controls that drivers generally take for granted. This required a rethink of cabin space, touch and positioning.
Controls beneath the surfaces
Taking advantage of an all-electric powertrain layout, the Ariya’s interior was crafted to be open, and spacious, a cabin with a sense of calm and serenity. Part of that design is a dashboard free of traditional buttons. The wood-grained trim bisecting the dashboard comes to life upon starting the Ariya, illuminating a set of environmental controls that reside just beneath the dashboard’s surface.
Haptic feedback, like a smartphone
Utilizing a new generation of haptic feedback controls, these subtly integrated buttons open a world of possibilities in the relationship between function and design. In the same way that we interact with a smartphone display to navigate and engage with apps, haptic feedback buttons in the Ariya react to touch, communicating through fingertip vibrations. When adjusting the Ariya’s climate controls and drive modes, for example, the driver will interact with a familiar set of icons. Yet, because the points of interaction are felt and heard, they can remain focused on the road.
The design team’s decision to integrate haptic feedback into the Ariya follows the car’s underlying design concept of ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’, which takes a distinctive Japanese approach to design, conveying a simple yet powerfully modern impression.
“We created a clean space by blending the haptic controls with the grain of the interior’s woodgrain finish. We did this in a way that didn’t affect the performance of the controls, allowing us to achieve both functionality and an attractive appearance,” said a Senior Designer at Nissan, Hideki Tago.
“By applying a woodgrain pattern to the plastic panels with a hydro-printing process, we gave them a very realistic wood-like feeling. At the same time, this allowed transparent icons to come to life when illuminated,” he explained.
Integrating technology into design
With the Ariya design team’s final goal laid out, it was the engineering team’s responsibility to make this sci-fi concept a reality. The process began with an exhaustive breakdown of the technology itself. Haptic feedback buttons are grouped into two specific areas in the Ariya — on the main dashboard and on the adjustable centre armrest. The goal was to not only integrate the technology into the cabin design as a means of wowing passengers, but also to give the technology a natural and responsive feel for a wide variety of drivers.
Following extensive testing, the team settled on electrostatic buttons that are not only bigger than traditional haptic controls, but also more broadly spaced. This allows for a realistic and intuitive feeling for users, and also generates a kind of air pressure ‘kick’. This amplifies the tactile feedback with the click sensation of a traditional mechanical button, despite no traditional physical button being involved.
Then came the fine-tuning of the vibrations and sounds. That’s right — sounds. “Vibration and sound are inseparable,” explained Tomotaka Igarashi, the engineer in charge of the Ariya’s interior HMI (Human-Machine Interface) development. “It may seem obvious, but this challenged our team to develop a unique sound that would match the expectations of the driver while also designing it to be as pleasant as possible.”
Such attention to detail in an all-electric crossover is a necessity as the minimal sound emitted by the electric powertrain means that the sounds developed by the team will be clearly heard while driving. The development of the haptic controls required that every possible scenario be tested repeatedly to ensure easy use for a wide range of drivers, especially since the Ariya will sell in different regions of the world. That meant extensive testing by people with different size fingers and fingernail lengths, and with different button-pressure strengths and engagement angles. Gloved hands were also tested to ensure button activation.
Bowler Motors, an off-road performance vehicle specialist in the UK, has developed a Land Rover Defender rallycar that will compete in its own championship in 2022. Known as The Bowler Defender Challenge, it will consist of seven events in the UK, the first of which is scheduled to be in March.
There are 12 entries available for the one-make series, with each team competing in identical Bowler-prepared Defenders. For those with limited experience or none, the company can offer training and support to gain the necessary licence before moving directly to the series. The Challenge has been an ideal platform on which to gain motorsport know-how before joining other Bowlers and competing in rally-raid events across the globe.
For 2022 and beyond, the Challenge will continue to focus on delivering a fun environment that fosters the development of driving and competition skills yet retains the involving, engaging feel of a real motorsport family.
Defender 90 model used
Bowler will prepare the rallycars using the Defender 90 with a 300 ps Ingenium 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. Each vehicle will be completely stripped back to install a full FIA-standard roll cage. The front and rear subframes are modified and given additional bracing for a new bespoke performance suspension set-up. Designed in collaboration with Fox, it increases the ride height by 25 mm. In place of the standard wheels are Bowler rally-spec 18-inch wheels.
Bowler’s engineers will add a suite of electronic components, from fire protection and electrical cut-offs to additional lighting and vehicle control systems – all integrated with the existing electrical architecture. Competition racing seats are also installed and the gear selector is repositioned for the optimal racing position. Additionally, Bowler-developed column-mounted paddle shifts will provide quicker shifting action.
Strengthened structure
During the conversion, the engineers subtly modify and stiffen the already rigid Defender bodyshell to cope with the extreme conditions of off-road competition. The standard doors are trimmed to remove the sill covering section, which allows the fitment of full-length, side-to-side underbody protection panels. A modified front end increases airflow to the cooling system and houses additional race-level lighting
Packages for the 2022 Challenge will start at £99,500 (about RM574,500) which the vehicle. Options include training, series logistics and vehicle support and customers can also choose from a range of accessories developed as part of this programme .
“The development of the new Bowler Defender Challenge rallycar perfectly illustrates the mutual benefits of Bowler joining Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations. Our technical support married to Bowler’s legendary rally expertise has turned the extraordinarily capable Defender into a purposeful competition machine,” said Michael van der Sande, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations which has owned the Bowler business since 2019.
Incidentally, for those who are interested in getting a new Defender, we hear that Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will make the model available in the near future. To register your interest, visit www.landrover.com.my.
Latest Land Rover Defender, soon to be available in Malaysia.
The term ‘dual-purpose’ vehicle started appearing in the late 1970s when 4×4 vehicles got more ‘civilized’ and people began to use them like passenger cars. Then came ‘SUVs’ in the 1990s, followed by ‘crossovers’ in the following decade. Now comes another type of dual-purpose vehicle for those who find a conventional stationwagon less than suitable off-road, but an SUV or crossover is too tall and bulky.
It’s the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain with extra ground clearance than a regular C-Class stationwagon. It’s not a new idea though as Volvo did the same thing with its stationwagon many years ago to create Cross-Country versions that could be used in rougher conditions.
More ‘off-roader’ look
The off-road C-Class is differentiated by a distinctive radiator grille, different bumpers, a simulated chrome guard plate at the front and rear and the wheelarch linings in matt dark grey. At the rear, there is a multi-section bumper with a chrome-plated load sill guard.
As the All-Terrain version has an AVANTGARDE exterior, the waistline trim, side window surrounds and roof railings are finished in polished aluminium. The trim on the B-pillars and the bars on the rear side windows are in high-gloss black. The Night Package is also available, changing many items to high-gloss black.
Compared to the regular C-Class stationwagon, the All-Terrain has marginally increased dimensions – 4 mm longer and 21 mm wider, the latter due to the exaggerated wheelarch linings. Of significance is the increased ground clearance of around 40 mm, which has also increased the car’s height to 1,494 mm. The standard tyres are 225/55 on 7.5J x 17 wheels, and customers can also opt to fit 18-inch or 19-inch wheels with wider tyres.
Intelligent DIGITAL LIGHT
The C-Class has LED High Performance headlamps as standard and the DIGITAL LIGHT system from the new S-Class can be chosen as an option. For the All-Terrain, it includes a special off-road light. When driving on light terrain, wide illumination ensures that the driver can see obstacles sooner, even when cornering. As soon as the off-road driving mode is activated, the off-road light switches on and remains active up to 50 km/h.
DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. This allows almost unlimited possibilities for a high-resolution light distribution that adapts to road conditions.
However, the deciding factor is not only the technology in the headlamp, but rather the digital intelligence behind it. An onboard camera and sensor systems detect other road users, with the data being evaluated by powerful computers in milliseconds. Depending on the conditions (including references to maps), the headlamps will have adjustments made to the light distribution.
Two electrified engine choices
Petrol or diesel engines are available. The 4-cylinder petrol engine has an integrated second-generation starter-generator (ISG) is used and can use electrical energy to briefly increased output by up to 20 bhp. The 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is part of a mild hybrid drive system. It too has an integrated second-generation starter-generator and uses a 48V electrical system. Electrification allows the use of an electric refrigerant compressor for the air conditioning system.
As would be expected, the All-Terrain has standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive that will provide more traction and driving stability when going on rough or slippery surfaces. Up to 45% of engine power flows to the front axle, and up to 55% to the rear axle, the ratio varying according to the grip of the wheels. Together with the 4MATIC drive system is a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Besides the usual modes in the DYNAMIC SELECT system that offers pre-determined driving programmes, there are two more modes for use when driving in off-road conditions. OFFROAD is programmed for easy terrain such as dirt roads, gravel or sand; OFFROAD+ with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is recommended for somewhat rougher and steeper terrain. DYNAMIC SELECT adapts the characteristics of the engine, transmission, steering, ESP and 4MATIC, with the modes selectable even when on the move.
The new front-axle drive allows higher torque levels to be transferred with an ideal axle load distribution for driving dynamics. Moreover, this has a significant weight advantage compared to the corresponding component in the preceding series – a contribution to CO2 reduction. The engineers were also able to reduce the friction losses in the new transfer case and a closed oil circuit is used with no additional cooling measures needed.
The suspension is basically the same as the regular C-Class, but the 4-link front suspension has slightly larger steering knuckles for addition robustness. A multi-link suspension mounted on a rear axle carrier is installed at the rear. The suspension has a passive damping system with the damping effect constantly adapting to the road surface, depending on the amplitude. Ride comfort can be improved by reducing the damping effect, and when the shocks are more severe, the full damping action ensures more stability.
Same interior as regular C-Class
The interior of the All-Terrain is similar to that of a regular C-Class stationwagon, with the occupants benefiting from the moderately increased exterior dimensions of the new model generation. Compared to the predecessor, the elbow width has been increased by 22 mm for the driver and front passenger and by 15 mm for the rear passengers. There is 11 mm more headroom in the rear, plus increased kneeroom of up to 35 mm.
In terms of digitality and quality, the latest C-Class interior now has highlights such as the display and operating concept adopted from the new S-Class, with a sporty interpretation. Compared to the previous C-Class generation, the latest one has a Driving Assistance Package with additional and advanced functions. These reduce driver workload in day-to-day situations, for more comfortable and safe driving.
The C-Class All-Terrain will have its official global debut at the International Motor Show in Munich, Germany next month, with the first cars reaching showrooms later this year.
Great Wall Motors (GWM), which has been a leader among SUV makers in China, has created a new sub-brand called TANK. The name originally began as a model name under the company’s WEY brand but at the end of last year, GWM decided that TANK would be a standalone brand. The first product is the TANK 300, a conventional looking SUV with a 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. With an output of 227 bhp and 3 differential locks in the drivetrain, it seems like a serious off-roader.
At the Chengdu Motor Show 2021 in China this month, GWM will display a second SUV which is currently referred to as TANK ‘X’. Designed by Andrew Collinson, formerly with Land Rover, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz and some other carmakers, the new SUV is to be a more premium product.
It will have a ‘hardcore look’ and as the sketches show, there is a hexagonal grille, which will have chrome highlights. The side view shows a muscular form not unlike other large SUVs in the market today.
TANK ‘X’ is built on GWM’s global intelligent professional off-road platform. It will be the manufacturer’s first SUV to be equipped with the 3.0GDIT+9AT powertrain. This engine is said to have advanced technologies such as dual-injection system and Miller cycle, with a thermal efficiency of 38.5% and maximum power output of 354 bhp/ 500 Nm. Its 9-speed automatic transmission was developed by GWM and is said to have a fast shift speed, smoothness, high transmission efficiency and also light weight.
The TANK brand joins four existing brands – HAVAL, Ora, GWM PickUp and WEY. In the first half of 2021, GWM’s total sales volume was 618,211 vehicles, a year-on-year growth of 56.5%, of which nearly 10% were sold outside China.
GWM TANK 300
GWM has been growing its presence in many regions and this year, it has stepped up its activities in Thailand with the aim of penetrating the ASEAN market. As an indication of the importance it places on the Thai market, GWM used the Bangkok International Motor Show this year as the venue for the world premiere of the HAVAL H6 Hybrid SUV.
GWM’s factory in Thailand was acquired from General Motors last year and will produce vehicles for the region.
