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.
The auto industry has been developing autonomous vehicles that can operate on their own, without human control, and sometime in the future, perhaps all vehicles on the road will move around autonomously. However, besides imagery and sonar scanning to detect other vehicles and road-users so as not to knock into them, vehicles can also communicate with each other to enhance safety.
For example, if there is an accident around a blind corner, vehicles near it can broadcast the hazard and other approaching vehicles can take appropriate action to slow down. Likewise, at junctions, communications between vehicles could greatly improve safety and avoid accidents.
In order for this to be possible, there must be a common communications system that all vehicles can use and this is now being developed. Suzuki Motor Corporation, Subaru Corporation, Daihatsu Motor, Toyota Motor Corporation and Mazda Motor have reached an agreement to jointly develop technical specifications for next-generation vehicle communications devices and to promote the common use of communications systems.
Linking automobiles and other related elements
These systems will use connected services to link automobiles and other related elements with the aim of creating new appeal, value and services, to be standardized for early provision of safer and more convenient connected services.
Within the field of CASE (connected, autonomous/automated, shared, and electric), which is said to be bringing about major transformations in the automotive industry, rapid advances are being made in the connected domain, in relation to the communications and data aspects of technology and business including cloud services, Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and AI. Individual automobile manufacturers are independently developing vehicle communications devices, and even in cases where the same connected services such as remote operation functions are provided, each company is adopting a different approach in proceeding with development and deploying relevant resources.
Safer and more convenient connected services
In response to these circumstances, the companies can provide safer and more convenient connected services to customers as early as possible, by positioning the development of vehicle communications devices, which are basic functions of the connected car, as a cooperative domain; positioning the development of applications and services as an in-house domain; and achieving greater efficiency and accelerating the development of vehicle communications devices. Each company can focus more on the development of applications and services on this common infrastructure through these steps.
Having a common communications system is vital as individual systems will create a fragmented infrastructure. It can be likened to the establishment of the common Windows operating system. In the early years of computers, there were different operating systems and users could not easily communicate with each other, or even exchange data. Once the Windows system (or MS-DOS) became a common system, companies could focus on developing software that was compatible and this led to faster growth for the industry.
At this time, Suzuki, Subaru, Daihatsu, and Mazda, while incorporating their own technologies into the base vehicle communications technologies developed by Toyota, will together build systems for next-generation connected cars with common connection specifications from vehicles to networks and the vehicle communications device centre.
A common communications system will allow vehicles of different brands and types to exchange information, reducing accidents.
Optimizing R&D resources
As a result, by stabilizing the communication quality between vehicles and vehicle communications device centre further, it will be possible to provide more convenient connected services to customers, such as clearer calls between customers and operators and faster connection speeds. At the same time, it will be possible to reduce the development burdens of each participating company and simplify system operation and version upgrades that include additional new functions, thereby optimizing resources such as facilities and personnel.
The 5 companies will openly consider collaboration with other like-minded partners regarding the joint development agreed on at this time while continuing their efforts to develop services that enrich the lives of people and solve social problems.
Cadillac is one of the first automotive brands in the world, with a history that goes back 118 years. While it was already established as a luxury brand from its early years, the name outside America was often associated with ‘gas guzzlers’ – cars with high fuel consumption and with dimensions like an aircraft carrier (an exaggeration, of course). The fact is, Cadillac models were fairly large and their heavy weight as well as big engines consumed fuel at a high rate but thankfully for American motorists, petrol prices were cheap.
By the 1970s, Cadillac began to ‘downsize’ and by the 1980s, even started to use front-wheel drive. Technology helped bring fuel consumption down and by the time the 21st century began, the company’s model range was sized more practically. Fuel consumption was certainly much lower than ever before although perhaps high compared to models from Europe and Asia.
No more new combustion engine models
Now the company is making a big leap forward with the decision to stop introducing new models with combustion engines (although it will continue to sell existing models). From next year, it will launch the first of many electrically-powered models to come and it has revealed what the first model will look like with the unveiling of the LYRIQ at Auto Shanghai last week.
Cadillac executives avoided calling it a concept car and said that the production model will look the same. “We are calling the model on display in Shanghai a showcar – not a concept – because it will go into production soon. You may be surprised how similar it is to the showcar,” said Felix Weller, Vice-President of Cadillac in China and General Director of Cadillac Marketing and Sales at SAIC-GM.
GM Ultium batteries and platform
Th LYRIQ is positioned as a midsize all-electric SUV, equipped with GM’s latest Ultium batteries, the industry’s first wireless battery management system which saves up to 90% of the wiring. Also, the battery system can receive new features as they become available, with support for over-the-air (OTA) updates provided by its Vehicle Intelligence Platform.
At launch, the LYRIQ’s dedicated electric architecture will include a 12-module, 100 kWh battery pack and a rear-wheel-drive Ultium Platform. The powertrain is expected to generate up to 340 hp, with 440 Nm of torque, and on a fully-charged battery pack, the estimated range will be over 480 kms.
As the cornerstone of GM’s electrification across the board, the next-generation and highly flexible Ultium platform allows Cadillac to deliver a variety of range and performance options. The modular EV platform on which the LYRIQ is based eliminates significant physical constraints associated with adapting electric propulsion within a conventional vehicle architecture. The result is an optimized design that supports greater driving range, an engaging driving experience and a new interpretation of the passenger space.
High-speed charging
The LYRIQ features an industry-first wireless battery management system and patented thermal protection technology to offer a safe, powerful and reliable luxury EV experience. Recharging time can be short as the LYRIQ can accept high-speed DC fast charging at 190 kW. This means that the owner can add an estimated 122 kms of range in about 10 minutes. For home charging, the LYRIQ will have a a segment-leading 19.2 kW charging module which can add up to 83 kms of range per hour of charging.
Next-generation variable ‘Regen on Demand’ technology, along with the convenience of One-Pedal Driving, will also be available. With Regen on Demand, drivers can control how quickly LYRIQ slows down or comes to a complete stop using a pressure-sensitive paddle located on the steering wheel. Both technologies make use of regenerative braking to help maximize electric driving efficiency.
Name inspired by music and poetry
The name ‘LYRIQ’ was inspired by Cadillac’s rich connection to the arts such as music and poetry. Its exterior styling is true to its intent to blend a sensory artform with intelligent technology, and underscores the brand’s bold aesthetic design philosophy.
The front of the showcar is designed to blur the lines between lighting and the grille. Vertical, slim-line LED headlamps interplay with Cadillac’s signature vertical lamps via the Illuminated Black Crystal grille, which not just follows the brand’s classic elements but presents a charming and futuristic visual effect like never before.
A full, two-tone glass roof stretches straight through to the roof spoiler, defining a low and fast profile while enabling outstanding aerodynamics. The lower centre of gravity and near 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear axles was enabled by the placement of the battery pack. Large 23-inch wheels in a matte finish enhance the vehicle’s dynamics and visual impact when still.
In order to highlight the purity and lightness of the LYRIQ’s form, Cadillac’s design team straddled the line between white and silver, using an unusual 14-layer painting process. With the change of light angle, the body finish shows a strong sense of flow, reflecting Cadillac’s distinctive luxurious style.
The seamless integration of art and technology is woven through every detail of the interior. Graceful and specific Cadillac knurling is etched on each component, and laser-etched patterns run throughout the metal-based wooden décor. There is detailing inside the vents as well, which emphasizes the idea of high design even in the smallest of areas.
A 33-inch-diagonal advanced LED display artfully integrates a single large screen that spans the viewing area for the driver. This new display has the highest pixel density available in the automotive industry today and can display over one billion colours.
The LYRIQ’s new augmented reality-enhanced Head-Up Display employs two planes – a near plane indicating speed, direction and more, and a far plane displaying transparent navigation signals and other important alerts. The vehicle’s technology also addresses sound in two important ways: blocking unwanted sounds and making the most of the sounds passengers want to hear. For the first time, Cadillac will introduce a new road noise cancellation technology, which takes active noise cancellation to the next level by introducing more microphones and accelerometers.
“Throughout the next decade, Cadillac will define the future of luxury transportation through a series of exciting new electric vehicles, and it all begins with LYRIQ,” said Rory Harvey, Vice-President, Global Cadillac.
Motorsports have long been used for the testing and development of many new technologies which have eventually been used for everyday cars. Engineers who work with racing teams have to do so under challenging conditions that also require speed due to competition, and this provides fertile ground for developing new solutions to improve performance.
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) will also be taking this approach in developing a hydrogen-fuelled engine. Actually, the engine already exists and It has been installed in a racing car based on Toyota’s Corolla Sport. This car will enter races under the ORC ROOKIE Racing banner, starting with the Super Taikyu Series 2021 Powered by Hankook Round 3 NAPAC Fuji Super TEC 24 Hours Race in May.
The hydrogen-fuelled racing car undergoing tests.
By refining its under-development hydrogen engine in the harsh environment of motorsports, Toyota aims to contribute to the realization of a sustainable and prosperous mobility society, ultimately enabling a carbon-neutral mobility society.
Toyota has long engaged in the innovation of engine technology, and in fact, the company has not only successful developed fuel cells (FCs) which use hydrogen that chemically reacts with oxygen in the air to produce electricity, but it has also used those fuel cells to power the electric motor in the Mirai, Toyota’s first commercialised fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Except for the combustion of minute amounts of engine oil during driving, which is also the case with petrol engines, hydrogen engines emit zero CO2 when in use.
For the hydrogen engine, the fuel delivery systems for FCEVs have been modified from those used with petrol engines. Combustion in hydrogen engines occurs at a faster rate than in petrol engines, resulting in a characteristic of good responsiveness. While having excellent environmental performance, hydrogen engines also have the potential to relay the fun of driving, including through sounds and vibrations.
Plans are for the hydrogen-engined racing car to be fueled during races using hydrogen produced at the Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field. While aiming to expand the hydrogen infrastructure in Japan by promoting hydrogen use, Toyota intends to continue advancing efforts for economic recovery and revitalization of the Tohoku region together with all parties concerned.
Even in safety, Toyota intends to apply the technologies and know-how that it has accumulated through the development of fuel cell vehicles and the commercialization of the Mirai. To ensure safety related to the use of hydrogen and high voltage, the countermeasures cultivated during the development of electrified vehicles such as FCEVs and HEVs were implemented. These measures are based on the basic approach of ensuring that hydrogen does not leak and, in the unlikely event that any leaks should occur, ensuring their immediate detection and stoppage.
Mirai – Toyota’s first commercialised fuel-cell electric vehicle runs on hydrogen. Two generations have been produced since it first went on sale in 2014.
Toward achieving carbon neutrality, Toyota has been strengthening its efforts, such as by aiming to promote the use of hydrogen through the popularization of FCEVs and numerous other fuel-cell-powered products. Toyota has been taking various initiatives toward the creation of a hydrogen society, such as selling the Mirai and SORA FCEV bus, selling FC systems to FC product companies, as well as allowing royalty-free use of its FCEV-related patent licenses.
Toyota has developed a product that packages individual FC system-related products of second generation Mirai with enhanced performance, such as the FC stack, as well as components that handle air supply, hydrogen supply, cooling, and power control, into a single compact module.
Ever since the 1990s, Malaysians have come to appreciate the usefulness of the pick-up truck, a vehicle that is fine for town use, for weekend adventures off-road as well as workhorse duties. There have been many choices and among the popular ones today is the Isuzu D-MAX which officially goes into its third generation in the Malaysian market today.
To suit different budgets and requirements, there are no less than seven variants to choose – with double cab or single cab bodystyles, and two engine sizes. It’s all-new from the tyres up, incorporating new technologies for greater strength, reliability, efficiency and longevity… all the qualities that have made the D-MAX so popular.
“Isuzu engineers set out to create a stronger, more able and durable machine with this new model. They invested years in development and over 4 million kilometres in testing the new model to achieve the best Isuzu D-Max they have ever created. They then added the soft touches and high-tech features to satisfy the discerning owners who desire comfort and sophistication in their modern-day vehicles,” said the CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, Koji Nakamura.
Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform
Built on a new Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the all-new Isuzu D-Max employs a new ladder frame that offers improved stiffness and strength to ensure and durability. The integration of the body structure, chassis, powertrain and suspension is balanced to work together as one for better handling. The new suspension configuration and a longer wheelbase allows the engine mass to be located further behind the front wheels, resulting in more dynamic handling and a comfortable ride.
All variants have a new distinctively bold and sporty outlook that has a more SUV appeal. The stylish appearance is functional too as aerodynamic efficiency – not usually talked about with such vehicles – is improved for the new D-MAX.
X-Terrain – the flagship
For those who want the most stylish pick-up truck, the new D-MAX X-Terrain variant will be the one to get. It stands out from the rest of the range with the Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue body colour.
This new flagship variant comes with a revised 3-litre engine that has been re-engineered and refined with numerous advancements to improve performance and engine response while reducing noise and vibration. The engine produces 190 ps/450 Nm, with peak torque starting from as low as 1,600 rpm and available up to 2,600 rpm. The revised torque curve, together with a new 6-speed automatic transmission, optimises power delivery for any condition and demand.
Exclusive features with the X-Terrain include remote engine start, rear differential lock, wet wiper system, brown leather upholstery for the seats (which have 8-way electronic adjustment including lumbar support), and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen panel with Android Auto/wireless Apple Carplay for easy smartphone connectivity.
Advanced Driver Assist Systems
The D-MAX X-Terrain also has Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) to make driving safer and less tiring. The active systems installed are similar to those found in the latest passenger cars. These include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Manual Speed Limiter, and a Multi-Collision Brake system that applies the brakes should any of the seven airbags be deployed.
Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe gap with the vehicle ahead.
For less driving fatigue on long distances or at night, there’s also Adaptive Cruise Control with stop & go function and Automatic High Beams. The Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe gap with other vehicles ahead and can function down to standstill, reactivating when the vehicle ahead moves off. Automatic High Beams will automatically switch to low beams when there is an oncoming vehicle to avoid dazzling the driver, so the driver of the D-MAX does not need to think about it.
Two engine choices
Customers can have style and comfort without sacrificing the proven qualities of the D-MAX which is now not only quieter and more comfortable but also a tougher, more capable and dependable as well. The Premium 4×4 Auto variants – available with either a 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel or the 3-litre turbodiesel – are ideal for those who spend significant hours behind the wheel. The new comfort features and safety equipment in the cabin will ensure that even if there are many hours of motoring, it will be fatigue-free.
Two turbodiesel engine choices for the new D-MAX – 1.9 litres or 3.0 litres, both tuned to run efficiently and reliably on Malaysian B7 or B10 biodiesel.
For workhorse duties
For the price conscious, the two Standard models offer lower running costs with their good operating efficiency. Powered by the capable 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 150 ps/350 Nm and a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions, these variants will be highly effective workhorses in any business.
Also available are two Single Cab variants for those who have significant load-carrying requirements and want a go-anywhere, do-anything truck. There are two engine options – 1.9-litres or 3.0-litres – and like the rest of the range, safety is assured as the latest D-MAX has qualified for ASEAN NCAP’s 5-star rating.
All D-Max variants come with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) but for the X-Terrain, Isuzu Malaysia is giving an additional 2 years – and no limit on mileage travelled after registration. This class-leading warranty shows that there is great confidence in the long-term durability of the vehicle.
“This all-new Isuzu D-Max has found many new fans in all the markets it has been launched. It appears to be the case here too in Malaysia where we have received over 1,000 bookings – even before its official launch today. With the strong interest in the all-new Isuzu D-Max, I believe that our target of 6,400 units this year will be achievable,” said the COO, Light Commercial Vehicle Division of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.
Prices shown are for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia. Insurance is not included.
Experience the all-new D-MAX
Until May 31, 2021, all authorized Isuzu dealerships will be having ‘The all-new Isuzu D-Max Breaking Boundaries Test Drive’ campaign. This is a great opportunity to experience the vehicle and during the campaign period, there will be exclusive Isuzu merchandise giveaways and a chance to win cash prizes. To locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my/.
Mercedes-EQ’s Nyck de Vries took the chequered flag first in one of the craziest E-Prix in Formula E history, leading home Nico Mueller (DRAGON/PENSKE AUTOSPORT) and his Mercedes teammate, Stoffel Vandoorne. Energy management is central to the racing in Formula E, and with the incident-packed, rain-hit race at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo seeing 5 appearances for the MINI Electric Pacesetter Safety Car, the teams’ carefully calculated energy management strategies were thrown off with the round running a lap longer than had been expected.
De Vries had been happy to sit behind long-time leader Antonio Felix da Costa (DS TECHEETAH) and conserve energy for a late attack. As it happened, that attack turned into a 2-lap sprint following the final spell under the Safety Car. However, only those who’d gone long as contingency, and conserved their usable energy, had enough power left in their cells to complete the extended race distance.
Longer race time than anticipated
Dutchman de Vries drove by da Costa as the Portuguese and many around him slowed with the race running beyond its anticipated finish. Mueller and Vandoorne followed – the man stripped of Julius Baer Pole Position on a technicality and sent to the back of the grid incredibly getting his hands on silverware, making the final step on the podium.
Nick Cassidy (Envision Virgin Racing), Rene Rast (Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler), Robin Frijns (Envision Virgin Racing), da Costa, Alexander Lynn (Mahindra Racing), Sam Bird (Jaguar Racing) and Lucas di Grassi (Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler) rounded out the top 10. Jake Dennis (BMW i Andretti Motorsport) and Jean-Eric Vergne (DS TECHEETAH) were the only other drivers who were classified.
With the rain falling and the MINI Electric Pacesetter leading the pack away, da Costa pulled a gap on Maximilian Guenther (BMW i Andretti Motorsport) and Lynn with the pack cleanly away as the race went green, for a lap or two at least. Andre Lotterer and Sebastien Buemi collided at the hairpin – the Porsche man collecting the Nissan e.dams driver – leaving the Swiss stuck in the gravel.
ATTACK MODE activations
This brought out the Safety Car for a lengthy spell while recovery of Buemi’s Nissan was underway, with leader da Costa leading the pack away when racing resumed. He was able to get the jump on the rest once again to the tune of 2 seconds once the green flags waved.
Through the first ATTACK MODE activations, it was the young German who pounced first – smart as Guenther had been slipping back down the order. He managed to hold on to fourth with Rowland just behind, and the rest of the top six followed with their initial jump through the ATTACK MODE loop a lap later.
With 25 minutes plus one lap to run, things looked calm and collected for da Costa with the Portuguese firmly in his groove. De Vries held second, 3three seconds back but still 2 seconds clear of Lynn in third. Rowland, Guenther, Sims, Nato, Pascal Wehrlein (TAG Heuer Porsche), Cassidy and Edo Mortara (ROKiT Venturi Racing) rounded out the top 10.
Wet and slippery conditions
Guenther’s race came to a sticky end on Lap 10 as the Bavarian’s iFE.21 left the track in tricky, slippery conditions. The BMW snapped under braking as he clipped a white line and despite an armful of opposite lock, Guenther couldn’t prevent the inevitable and ended up trapped in the gravel.
The MINI Electric Pacesetter made another appearance while the BMW was cleared and da Costa shot off early when the race went green once again – with Mercedes’ de Vries all over his diffuser. The Mercedes driver was content to have the Dutchman remain in the DS’ slipstream, though, with energy management looking likely to come to a head towards the final minutes of the race. This would force da Costa into punching a hole in the air and use more energy in doing so, as de Vries let the Portuguese do all the hard work.
5 laps later, Sergio Sette Camara (DRAGON/PENSKE AUTOSPORT) and Mitch Evans (Jaguar Racing) clashed with the Brazilian sent off into the gravel and out of the race and the Kiwi forced to retire in the pits. Yet another spell (the fourth) under the Safety Car followed, while Mercedes informed de Vries he had energy in-hand to push leader da Costa with 13 minutes plus one lap to run.
The pack was once again let loose with less than 10 minutes to run, and da Costa controlled things at the restart, though de Vries had a couple of per cent of usable energy in-hand over those around him – the leader still needing to use his second dose of ATTACK MODE. Da Costa intelligently combatted this with FANBOOST used to create the gap needed to jump through the activation zone and stay ahead of de Vries.
Energy management was crucial
By the time the MINI Electric Pacesetter peeled off the circuit after its latest outing, the race had become a straight 2-lap sprint. However, with the Safety Car so busy, and the race running to an extra lap not planned for, only a handful of drivers looked like they’d enough energy to make the finish.
De Vries had worked it best, to take the race win from Mueller and Vandoorne, sending the Dutchman to the top of the standings from teammate Vandoorne and Mercedes-EQ to the summit of the Teams’ pile. Robin Frijns (Envision Virgin Racing) secured the point for TAG Heuer Fastest Lap.
Full Season 7 calendar finalised
Formula E and the FIA have also revealed the full calendar for the 2020/21 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. It has a new race venue and updates to previously scheduled events. The Season 7 calendar is set to host more races than ever before in a single season, comprising 15 races in 8 cities, covering 3 continents.
The final set of races to be announced starts with a new location for the all-electric racing series, with the Puebla E-Prix in Mexico on June 19/20. This replaces the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City which has previously hosted 5 Formula E races. It cannot be used now because the circuit is still a temporary field hospital.
The Marrakesh E-Prix and Santiago E-Prix, scheduled for in May and June, respectively, have been removed from the calendar this season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Events in Santiago, Sanya and Seoul will be rescheduled for Season 8, with fans in attendance. However, the running of races will still depend on travel restrictions, as well as local government protocols, and the organisers will continue to monitor the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and communicate changes if any are required.
‘Mobility’ is a word that automakers like to use today, some explaining that they are transforming themselves from just being vehicle manufacturers to ‘mobility companies’. Honda too sees itself as a mobility company and indeed, over the 73 years it has been in business, it has developed products that provide mobility for the masses. In fact, it’s the world’s largest power unit manufacturer, making products from power generators used at pasar malams to motorized transport and even jet aircraft.
Honda would like to be regarded as a company that society wants to exist, because of the good things it does and can do. And as a responsible corporate citizen, it also has to consider important global issues concerning the environment and road safety, the latter related to the vehicles it provides.
With reduction of carbon emissions as a priority, Honda has made a firm commitment to achieve carbon neutrality for all its products and corporate activities by 2050. In this way, its business will have zero environmental impact and this will require the use of clean energy and resource recirculation.
In order to achieve this carbon-free goal on a ‘tank-to-wheel’ basis, Honda has decided that by 2040 – just 19 years from now – it will sell only battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCVs). It will no longer sell vehicle with internal combustion engines (ICE) that generate pollution, even if much has been done in past decades to bring pollution from exhaust emissions down (Honda’s CVCC system being one of the ways).
Of course, between now and 2040, the phasing out of ICE vehicles has to be progressive and will start with the more advanced markets where there is already a trend of electrification. In fact, Norway has already reported that sales of fully electric vehicles have overtaken ICE vehicles in that country. The ratio of electrified vehicles will be 40% by 2030 and then doubled to 80% by 2035.
The company has identified North America as one of the regions where it will pursue the targets and has formed an alliance with GM to achieve electrification in North America efficiently. The two companies are jointly developing two large EV models using GM’s Ultium batteries which will enter the market in 2024 under both the Honda and Acura brands.
Starting from the second half of the 2020s, Honda will launch a series of new EV models which adopt e:Architecture, a completely new EV platform developed by the company. These EV models will first be introduced to the North American market, and then to other regions of the world.
China, the world’s largest automobile market, will also see a similar progression to EVs and during the next 5 years, at least 10 Honda-brand models will be introduced. In fact, the first of these will be the SUV e:prototype which is scheduled to go on sale in early 2022.
SUV e:prototype, unveiled in Shanghai this week, will go on sale in 2022 as the symbolic first Honda-brand EV in China.
Japan, Honda’s home market, will see a sales ratio of 20% EVs by 2030, 80% by 2035 and 100% by 2040. However, if including hybrid models, 100% of automobile sales in Japan can be electrified by 2030. There will also be a K-car EV in 2024 as well.
It will be interesting to see how Honda deals with markets which do not have firm policies concerning EVs. Obviously the company won’t want to stop selling altogether but conditions could be difficult if prices of EVs do not come down sufficiently for the masses to afford. Right now, in countries like Malaysia, the fact that EVs have to be imported in CBU form makes them very expensive and low numbers will not be encouraging for companies, even less so to consider local assembly that could help offset the high production costs. Even then, a poor recharging infrastructure will be a discouraging factor to consumers and this would need government support to establish comprehensively and extensively.
Cruise Origin self-driving vehicle.
In the area of mobility services (MaaS), Honda will introduce the Cruise Origin, an electric self-driving vehicle. The company is currently developing jointly the vehicle with GM and Cruise, for the Japanese MaaS market in the mid-2020s. On a broader scale, Honda will continue to work on the concept of Honda eMaaS (mobility services) by connecting electrified mobility products and energy service. Honda eMaaS will have three core areas: Expansion of the utilization of Mobile Power Packs; utilization of large-capacity batteries for electrified vehicles; and application and implementation of fuel cell systems.
Regarding fuel cell systems, hydrogen is expected to be popularized as a renewable energy source and Honda has a long history of R&D in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). It was one of the first carmakers to produce a FCV which was successfully used on a commercial basis and its collaboration with GM will see reduced costs and expansion of its line-up of FCVs and also using FC systems for a wide range of applications.
Honda has many years of experience in developing fuel cell vehicles (FCVs). In 2008, it introduced the FCX Clarity which had a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electrical power.
Honda will strive for zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda motorcycles and automobiles globally by 2050. The major challenge we will face as we work toward this goal is how to eliminate motorcycle collision fatalities, especially in emerging countries. As a company that has both motorcycle and automobile businesses, we will continue to strengthen our research on safety technologies that enable motorcycles and automobiles to safely coexist and lead the way in realizing a collision-free society from the standpoint of both hardware and software.
As for road safety and the 2050 objective of zero traffic collision fatalities involving motorcycles and cars, Honda will apply omnidirectional ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system) to all new automobile models on sales in developed countries by 2030. However, the high accident rates occur in less developed or emerging markets where there are very high numbers of motorcycles. In such areas, particularly in emerging markets, there are many collisions that can be prevented through traffic safety education activities and by approaching the issue from the perspective of infrastructure and government policies. Therefore, Honda will focus also on such areas including strengthening of educational programs and government/industry relations activities.
Future Honda models will have sensors that can scan all round the vehicle to reduce collisions with other road-users, especially motorcyclists.
In order for Honda to keep making progress in its environmental and safety initiatives, it will be necessary for the company to invest in the R&D. This investment will not be influenced by fluctuations in sales revenues and Honda declares that it will invest a total of approximately 5 trillion yen as R&D expenses over the next 6 years.
Honda has been actively developing EV models since the 1990s, some of which have gone on sale in selected markets. By 2040, its range will consist entirely of EVs.
“As of last fiscal year, we enabled Honda R&D to focus on the research of advanced technologies, and we are conducting research on leading-edge environmental and safety technologies for the realization of a society that aims for zero environmental impact and a collision-free society. Also, we are making progress with research on technologies which will expand mobility into the 3rd and 4th dimensions, into the skies, the ocean, outer space and the area of robotics. We will strengthen our original research of technologies by ensuring optimal allocation of resources into the area of advanced and cutting-edge technologies,” said Toshihiro Mibe, Honda Motor’s new President and Representative Director who took over the position from Takahiro Hachigo at the beginning of this month.
“My hope is to hear people saying, ‘We are glad Honda exists’ or ‘Honda will definitely do it’. Honda wants to continue to be a company that people want to exist. That is what we want to achieve,” Mr. Mibe said during his inaugural speech as new President.
The built-in headlights in every car today have been around for about 100 years and over the decades, the lighting systems have evolved to make the illumination stronger, giving a better view of the road or ground ahead. From making headlights more powerful, the engineers have also been making them operate ‘intelligently so that optimum illumination is achieved with changing conditions.
Driving in the dark can be stressful, especially on unfamiliar, winding roads. Ford is therefore working on a new technology to increase comfort and safety when driving after sunset. The company has already done pioneering work in the camera-based recognition of traffic signs and lane markings to optimize headlights in order to better illuminate streets in the dark, especially at intersections.
Now, engineers from Ford Research and Advanced Engineering Europe are testing technology that uses real-time location data to effectively show the car the way to go. The predictive ‘smart’ headlight system directs beams into upcoming corners – even before drivers may have seen them, illuminating hazards and other road-users more quickly and effectively.
How it works
The prototype advanced lighting system uses GPS location data, advanced technologies and highly accurate street geometry information to accurately identify turns in the road ahead. An algorithm calculates the trajectory and speed of the vehicle to proactively adjust the direction of its headlights, providing optimal light coverage of bends, junctions – and even hazards lurking around the corner.
If the vehicle encounters a stretch of road where location data is not available, the system will work alongside camera and steering‑based dynamic headlight-bending technologies to continue to intelligently light the road until the location data improves.
Researchers have made extensive use of ‘digital twin’ simulation that recreates the physical world in a virtual environment. The simulator accurately calculates how light falls and reflects in the real world, enabling researchers to better visualise and optimise the technology for drivers. The Ford researchers used a simulation that reproduces the real world in a virtual environment. The simulation environment calculates the correct reflection of the headlights as in the real world, so that the researchers can visualize the lighting technology realistically and optimize it in terms of traffic safety.
“The predictive lighting technology we are now developing could one day make driving in the dark so easy that the driver basically just has to follow his headlights,” said Michael Koherr, Lighting Research Engineer, Ford of Europe. “This new map and location-based system is the next step in our search for how we can make driving at night as easy as it is during the day.”
Road Edge Detection – available today
The advanced lighting technology will complement another new technology that Ford has developed which can be especially useful on rural roads at night – Road Edge Detection. Roads in rural areas can be tricky as they may not only lack proper lane markings but also give way to open land, muddy ditches and sheer drops.
Ford’s new technology can help make rural driving easier as Road Edge Detection scans the road ahead and can gently steer the vehicle back on track when needed. Designed for use at speeds of 70 – 110 km/h, Road Edge Detection relies on a camera located below the rearview mirror to monitor road edges 50 metres in front of the vehicle and 7 metres to the side.
How it works
Where a paved road becomes a soft side, gravel hard shoulder or grass, the system provides gentle steering support as required to prevent the vehicle from drifting off the carriageway. The system features an advanced algorithm that determines when there are clear structural changes from the road to the area beside the road. It can also provide steering support on marked roads when the lane marking is obscured or hidden by snow, leaves or rain.
If the driver is still close to the edge following initial steering support, the system vibrates the steering wheel, to prompt the driver to steer. At night, the system uses the illumination from the headlights and functions as effectively as during the day.
While predictive lighting technology is still under development, Road Edge Detection is already available in Europe on certain models and will be offered in more models in future the way advanced safety systems like Pre-Collision Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking have been progressively included in almost all models.
To experience Ford’s safety technologies, ask any authorised Ford dealer for a test-drive. To locate a dealership in Malaysia, visit www.sdacford.com.my.
