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AMR-C01 – the ultimate racing simulator from Aston Martin

Simulator racing has been growing over the years, both in terms of technological advances that increase realism as well as popularity globally. Companies making the hardware and software for simulators are pushing the envelope further and further, and with the AMR-C01 Racing Simulator, those who want to compete in the virtual or the real world can have the ultimate luxury home simulator.

Designed by Aston Martin and engineered by Curv, the AMR-C01 has a lightweight carbonfibre monocoque structure and utilises the latest technology to provide a fully immersive driving experience for the home user. The seating position mirrors that of the Aston Martin Valkyrie, adding a futuristic hypercar feel to the simulator.

Carbonfibre bodywork
Hand-assembled by Curv Racing Simulators, using the highest quality components and latest Assetto Corsa software, the AMR-C01 has a unique look, thanks to the work of the Aston Martin Design team. Crafted in carbonfibre, the front of bodywork is shaped to invoke the signature Aston Martin Racing grille.

The all-carbonfibre monocoque provides a rigid structure, the design of which also adds to the sporting look of the simulator. As what customers would expect of any Aston Martin car, there is a high level of refinement and surface quality as well as finish.

“This was a challenge for the design team as, although the simulator isn’t a car, it is inspired by our racing cars. It needed to exude the same elegance, boasting the same dynamic lines and balance of proportions as any Aston Martin with a racing lineage. I can picture the AMR-C01 in the most beautiful of residences as a sculptural work of art in its own right,” said Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman.

For the love of racing
Curv Racing Simulators is led by Aston Martin works driver, Darren Turner, who is a simulator specialist with over 20 years’ experience in cutting edge Formula 1 simulation. “The AMR-C01 is all about the love of racing. We’ve created a home simulator with incredible immersion that offers users the opportunity to have a great time racing in the virtual world, from the comfort of their own home,” said Turner.

Hypercar experience
“We modelled the driving position on the Aston Martin Valkyrie so users of AMR-C01 can get the full hypercar experience. I’m very proud of what we’ve been able to achieve, with design and engineering creating what I believe to be the most beautiful home simulator available,” he added.

Only 150 of these state-of-the-art simulators will be available, each priced from £57,500 (about RM304,000) in the UK. The first units can be delivered during the fourth quarter of this year.

James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 in ‘Goldfinger’ reborn – complete with the gadgets!

Ferrari Portofino M – the evolution of the 2+ GT spider

Ferrari’s evolved 2+ GT spider model, the Portofino M, is the first Ferrari to be presented in the wake of the company’s temporary closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is therefore a symbol of a ‘voyage of rediscovery’ in a way, in constant pursuit of innovation.

The ‘M’ in its designation refers to ‘Modificata’, which at Ferrari refers to cars that have undergone an evolution that has significantly boosted their performance. In the case of the Portofino M, the most notable aspect is its redesigned powertrain with a brand-new 8-speed gearbox. There is also the 5-position Manettino that includes a Race mode, an absolute first for a Maranello GT spider.

Uprated engine with new gearbox
The Portofino M’s 3855 cc engine belongs to the V8 turbo family voted ‘International Engine of the Year’ on 4 consecutive occasions (2016-2019). The power unit can generate up to about 620 ps at 7,500 rpm, 20 ps more than the Portofino. To achieve these higher performance levels, the engineers developed new cam profiles that increase valve lift and optimise combustion chamber filling.

A speed sensor was also added to the turbocharger assembly to measure the turbine speed. This in turn allowed the maximum rpm of the turbine to be increased by 5,000 rpm.

The 8-speed gearbox is completely new compared to the previous 7-speed version and has a dual-clutch oil bath architecture. It also differs from the SF90 Stradale’s 8-speed transmission in its longer gear ratios and the introduction of a mechanical reverse gear. The new layout and integration of its components have also optimised the gearbox’s size and its installation in the car.

Like all the other turbo cars in the range and in line with the ‘zero turbo lag’ concept, the Portofino M delivers instantaneous throttle response throughout the rev range. Variable Boost Management, a control software developed by Ferrari, adjusts torque delivery to suit the gear selected. The result is increasingly powerful pick-up as revs rise, whilst optimising fuel consumption. The amount of torque delivered progressively increases all the way up to 760 Nm in 7th and 8th gears.

This has allowed the use of longer gear ratios in the higher gears, which helps keep fuel consumption and emissions down. On the other, adopting a steeper torque curve through the rev range in the lower gears makes for a feeling of smooth and powerful pick-up.

By tradition, every single Ferrari engine has its own particular soundtrack that makes it unique, and the Portofino M is no exception. The two rear silencers have been eliminated (which in addition to boosting sound also significantly reduces back-pressure in the tailpipes) and the by-pass valves are now oval in shape to enhance the exhaust sound.

Advanced and integrated control systems
The vehicle dynamics control system known as Side Slip Control (SSC) incorporates an algorithm that delivers an estimate in real-time of the side slip angle to all the various on-board control systems. The SSC coordinates all the vehicle dynamics interventions as the systems are all integrated using shared data.

Now in its sixth generation, the SSC integrates the E-Diff, F1-TCS, SCM-E Frs and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) control systems. The FDE is a lateral dynamics control system that uses Ferrari software to adjust the hydraulic brake pressure at the calipers on all four wheels. On the Portofino M, it is available only when the Manettino is in Race mode.

When the top is down
With the top down, the Portofino M reveals a multi-level dashboard structure comprising an upper half and then an intermediate gap designed to lighten the perceived mass of the lower half. This approach allowed the designers to organise the technical elements and in-car devices to very rational effect while simultaneously defining a signature full-width architecture.

A central horizontal aluminium blade divides the instrument panel, air conditioning vents and passenger display into separate areas in the upper section. The other control functions are located in the scooped section below, with a large 10.25-inch touchscreen at the centre.

Seen in plan view, the cockpit’s symmetrical arrangement and the ample rear seat space are clear. From a construction perspective, the interior – and the dashboard architecture, in particular – feature two shells incorporating all of the technical components and a bridge that visually connects the instrument panel area with the central tunnel.

The seats are the product of a special research project and have an innovative magnesium structure. Different density padding and an ultra-compact seatback profile have freed up space for rear occupants too.

The passenger participates too
The Portofino M’s HMI (Human-Machine Interface) centres on a digital cluster with dual TFT displays arranged around the analogue tachometer in a generous circular, anti-glare binnacle. Located on exactly the same axis as the multifunctional steering wheel, this cluster allows the driver to interact more easily and intuitively, both visually and physically, with the car by delivering optimal driving feedback.

The passenger has an optional dedicated capacitive display on the dashboard too. It is directly linked to the main screen providing all information relating to car speed, rpm and gear engaged. This 7-inch colour full HD and Full Touch display also allows the passenger to interact with the car’s on-board systems. It is thus possible for the passenger to becomes a participative co-driver.

Click here for other news and articles about Ferrari

The new Mercedes-Benz GLB-class

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Only 15 units of MINI Electric First Edition available for Malaysian market

Following the launch of the MINI Electric last month, MINI Malaysia now offers the First Edition and only 15 people in Malaysia will be able to own one. First Edition models are usually produced in limited runs and come with exclusive or unique features.

In the case of the MINI Electric First Edition, priced from RM238,380.78, there are bespoke side scuttles and door sills which identify each unit as ‘ONE OF FIFTEEN’. An all-new exterior colour, Yours Enigmatic Black, almost makes it debut with this special edition. 17-inch Power Spoke two-tone wheels come with run flat tyres.

MINI Yours appointments
The interior has MINI Yours Walknappa Leather Lounge Upholstery and Walknappa Leather-wrapped steering wheel. At night, the MINI Yours Illuminated Interior Surface lights up from a choice of 12 ambient light colours. Additionally, the Panorama Glass Roof enhances the sense of openness day or night.

ELECTRIC-specific features
The Electric version has its own specific features such as the Electric Cockpit Fascia, Electric Start/Stop button in Yellow, Electric velour floor mats, an electronic selector lever with Electric design, as well as the brake energy recuperation toggle. The driver can refer to the Head-Up Display or the Digital Instrument Cluster which displays key information like speed, range, state of charge of the battery.

The body colour features its front blade and aero-optimised mirror caps in Energetic Yellow. Alternatively, the First Edition is also available in the popular White Silver with Energetic Yellow accents. The roof for both exterior body colours will be available in black. It is equipped with the Lights Package which includes the Matrix LED headlights and LED rear lights featuring the iconic Union Jack design to remind of its British heritage.

In place of an internal combustion engine is a synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group. The front-axle electric motor generates 135 kw/184 hp, drawing energy from a 12-module T-shaped battery pack with a net capacity of 28.9 kWh. Peak torque is 270 Nm which is available from the moment the car moves off, providing zippy performance with a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 7.3 seconds.

Up to 270 kms of range
With a single-speed transmission and integrated differential, the MINI Electric First Edition can reach a claimed maximum speed of 150 km/h and depending on driving conditions and style, travel for up to 270 kms on a fully-charged battery pack.

Recharging a fully empty battery pack requires approximately 36 minutes to reach 80% capacity when recharging at a DC charging station. Similarly, the MINI Wallbox Plus provides an 80% charge in just two and half hours. At home, recharging can be done in 12 hours using a household power supply. Of course, most owners would not run the battery till it’s completely empty so the actual time required may not be as long.

All-electric MINI makes its debut in Malaysia, priced from RM218,380

Ford Ranger XLT Plus gets facelift with enhanced features

The latest Ford Ranger XLT Plus Facelift is now available in Malaysia. Enhanced features include new high-performance Bi-LED headlamps that deliver 17% stronger lighting while the new body-coloured bumper design finished with a silver bumper lip replicates the front exterior of the Ranger WildTrak. The new Ranger XLT Plus also comes with an exclusive new chrome grille.

“We are delighted to introduce the New Ford Ranger XLT Plus facelift that now comes with added premium features that are seen in the Ranger WildTrak and Raptor. The Ranger XLT Plus variant, which was introduced in Malaysia in 2018, has proven to be a popular variant for customers looking for a pickup that is suitable for both work and play with premium touches,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC).

Function and convenience
Interior features that come standard are an 8-inch touchscreen display and SYNC multimedia system with a reverse camera. The Ranger XLT Plus also comes with convenience features such as keyless entry with pushstart button. The Easy Lift Tailgate that makes opening and closing the tailgate effortless. Ford MyKey is also provided to allow owners to program the key to limit certain functions of certain features if the vehicle is loaned to another person.

420 Nm turbodiesel, 10-speed transmission
Under the bonnet is a proven 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine (108 ps/420 Nm) mated to 10-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is the first and still only one in its class. The 4×4 drivetrain can be switched between High and Low ranges, as well as 2WD and 4WD, while on the move using a rotary knob.

The power assistance for the steering system is provided by an electric motor so that no power is drawn from the engine, helping to improve fuel efficiency. A Limited Slip Differential provides stability, grip and can help in difficult conditions.

Safety features like a passenger car
The Ranger has had a strong reputation for safety from the first generation and with the current one, there are dual airbags, ABS with Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution, ISOFIX childseat mounts, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Rollover Mitigation, Trailer Sway Control, Adaptive Load Control, Daytime running lights and even rain-sensing wipers.

Hill Descent Control and Hill Launch Assist also provide the driver with confidence on slopes and allow stable and safe movement.

The new Ranger XLT Plus, imported from Thailand, is priced from RM129,888 (on-the-road, without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia) and comes with 5 colour options – Aluminium Metallic, Arctic White, Lightning Blue, Meteor Grey and Absolute Black.

As with the entire Ranger line-up, it is covered with a full manufacturer’s warranty of 3 years or up to 100,000 kms, whichever comes first.

Latest Ford promotion
SDAC has also announced its latest promotion which offers 4 free vehicle service and cash rebate options (terms and conditions apply) with the purchase of selected Ranger variants, The promotion, which runs until December 31, 2020, is intended to offer customers more savings and reduce cost of ownership. The free vehicle services are equivalent to 2 years of free maintenance (or up to 40,000 kms, whichever comes first). Alternatively, customers can opt for a RM2,000 cash rebate.

For selected Ranger XL variants, customers can enjoy up to RM7,000 cash rebate, while a RM7,000 cash rebate will be offered on selected Ranger XLT variants.

“We are pleased to announce greater saving options for our customers, with the choice of enjoying 4 free vehicle service or cash rebate options on our Ranger vehicles. With these saving options, we hope this would allow customers more flexibility in their spending,” said Tuan Syed Muzri.

Customers who have a purchase enquiry can WhatsApp the Ford Digital Salesperson at +6019-204 1200 (9 am – 4 pm, Monday – Friday, excluding public holidays). Through this dedicated channel, customers can be linked with an authorised Ford salesperson at a dealership located nearest to them. This will allow customers to transact at their own convenience and pay the deposit for their vehicle wherever they are.

For more information about the latest Ford promotions as well as information on the range of Ford vehicle available and location of showrooms in Malaysia, visit www.sdacford.com.my .

Three more top awards for Ford Ranger in Europe

New warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor, will improve parts operations for Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia

The population of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia has been growing, especially with the popularity of the Triton and undoubtedly with the coming Xpander model. As the number of vehicles increases, so too will the demand for replacement parts.

In a proactive move, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia recently migrated to a new parts warehouse in Shah Alam, Selangor as part of an expansion plan to meet with increasing aftersales demands.

Faster delivery of parts
The new facility has a storage capacity of up to 40,000 square feet, enabling the consolidation of all holdings under one roof to improve warehouse operations. This move will also speed up delivery of parts required by all authorized service centres nationwide.

“The relocation of our warehouse is in line with the continuous growth of Mitsubishi Motors business in Malaysia. The new parts warehouse is located at a strategic location with less road congestion and easy access to Federal and KESAS highway. With this accessibility, we will be able to accelerate our parts delivery to MMM’s business partners as we constantly seek to improve customer’s aftersales experience by reducing cost and increasing our work efficiency,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

In Malaysia, there are 52 authorised Mitsubishi Motors service outlets and 52 showrooms (out of which 46 are 3S Centres).

Visit www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my for more information on products and services from the brand.

First Mitsubishi Motors dealership in Melaka with new brand Visual Identity

Toyota wins at Le Mans for the third time

Toyota continued its winning streak at Le Mans with another victory this weekend, its third successive one in the classic 24-hour endurance race. Kazuki Nakajima was at the wheel of the No. 8 Toyota GAZOO Racing TS050 HYBRID as team mates Sebastien Buemi and Brendon Hartley watched him take the chequered flag after 387 laps.

From No.7 to No.8
The early lead was maintained by Kamui Kobayashi, partnered by Mike Conway and Jose Maria Lopez, in the No. 7 Toyota. However, midway through the race, the car had a turbo problem and the No.8 car quickly moved to take over at the front.

Second overall was Rebellion Racing’s Gibson R-13 driven by the trio of Bruno Senna, Norman Nato and Gustavo Menezes. It was one of two cars from the Swiss team which shadowed the No.8 Toyota, waiting for the car to drop out which, of course, didn’t happen.

LMP1 and GTE winners
While Toyota won the LMP1 category, the LMP2 category was won by the United Autosports Team with an Oreca-Gibson crewed by Paul di Resta, Philip Hanson and Filipe Albuquerque. They finished fifth overall after the No.3 car of Rebellion Racing.

Aston Martin Racing won the FIA GT Manufacturers Championship as the No.97 Aston Martin Vantage AMR finished tops in the GTE Pro class and the #90 TF Sport Aston Martin Vantage AMR collect the trophy for the GTE Am class.

This year’s Le Mans race, the 88th edition since starting in 1923, is the last one before the new Hypercar era starts for the next season. Sadly, the spectator stands were empty as French authorities did not allow large crowds due the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2019-2020 WEC season has one more round remaining which will be held in Bahrain on November 14.

Toyota’s GR Super Sport hypercar returned to its spiritual home this weekend to appear in public for the first time, as part of its ongoing development process, shortly before the start of the Le Mans 24 Hours. Based on the 2-time Le Mans-winning TS050 HYBRID racing car and covered in GR camouflage livery, the car completed a demonstration lap before arriving at a ceremony to return the Le Mans trophy for this year’s race.

*Besides the win at Le Mans, Toyota GAZOO Racing also won the Rally Turkey this weekend.*

New vehicle sales and production summary for August 2020

*Source: Malaysian Automotive Association*

♦ It should be noted that the sales volume shown for August does not indicate the Total Industry Volume (TIV) as some companies have chosen not to share their data on a monthly basis and will only do so on a quarterly basis.

♦ Although the August sales volume was 8% lower than July’s, the government’s Sales Tax exemption incentive continued to help boost sales as the same month in 2019 registered 3% lower sales.

♦ Cumulative sales after 8 months have reached 285,045 units, 28% lower than for the same period in 2019 but a slightly narrower gap compared to the January – July period for both years.

♦ To achieve the MAA’s 470,000-unit forecast for 2020, the industry must sell an average of 46,238 units in the remaining 4 months. The 52,800 units sold in August were therefore above that level but can high volumes be sustained till the end of the year?

♦ Production rose again as the plants could resume normal production capabilities and respond to the increased demand. The output rose by 5.4% to 50,228 units which comprised 47,934 passenger vehicles and 2,294 commercial vehicles. However, the loss of almost 3 months of production has put the cumulative output 31% behind that of 2019 in the same 8-month period.

Source: Malaysian Automotive Association

Sime Darby Auto Performance opens largest 3S Porsche Centre in Asia-Pacific

With an investment of over RM15 million, Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised importer of Porsche vehicles and parts in Malaysia, has built the largest 3S Porsche Centre within a single facility in the Porsche Asia-Pacific region. Officially opened recently, the flagship facility known as Porsche Centre Ara Damansara is the third brand new dealership facility established by SDAP in its 10 years representing the brand in this country.

The Porsche Centre Ara Damansara occupies a cumulative built-up area of 12,102 square metres which includes 8,000 square metres of working space across 5 levels, with two showroom floors, two service and workshop levels and the importer office.

Showroom on two floors
The new facility is designed to deliver a best-in-class retail experience for customers and enthusiasts alike. The showroom areas on two floors, connected by escalators, can showcase up to 26 models. Porsche owners and fans will be able to purchase accessories and equipment at the ‘shop-in-shop’ featuring the latest collection of Porsche Driver’s Selection.

The service workshop operates on the second and third floors and has 21 service bays, with frameless telescopic oil hydraulic lifts being used. The Aftersales reception area comprises 4 dialogue bays, air-conditioned for better comfort

Motorsports Zone
There is also a dedicated Motorsports Zone, the first of its kind not only in Malaysia, but globally. Besides showcasing classic and modern Porsche racing cars, there are racing simulators for visitors to experience a virtual drive on a variety of circuits. Personal coaching with a trained instructor is also available for owners.

High-performance chargers
To prepare for the new era of electromobility, SDAP has installed Direct Current (DC) high-performance chargers for customers at all Porsche Centres. These 175 kW chargers are currently the fastest in the country and can fully charge the battery pack of the new Taycan within 36 minutes under optimal conditions.

*Owners of the new Taycan all-electric sportscar will be able to get their cars charged within 36 minutes using the high-performance chargers at the facility.*

“A central part of the new concept is to create a unique brand experience and a gathering place for our Porsche community, appealing to existing and new customers,” said Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance. ”Strategically located within the newly built Sime Darby Motors City complex of Ara Damansara in Selangor, this latest addition to the Porsche dealer network signals the commitment of SDAP and Sime Darby Motors, as well as Porsche Asia Pacific, to ensure a best-in-class experience for customers and enthusiasts alike.”

Click here for more news and articles about Porsche.

Peugeot to return to endurance racing in 2022 with hypercar (w/VIDEO)

This weekend sees the running of the 88th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which was originally scheduled for its usual date in June but had to be postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On this weekend too, Peugeot and TOTAL officially commence their Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) project. This will see a new racing car, developed to new regulations, for the top tier endurance category.

“Le Mans is the holy grail of the automobile world,” said Jean Philippe Imparato, Peugeot brand CEO. “It is the race who determines its winner. For us, this represents 3 victories but also the endless sweat, tears and joy and an incredible team spirit with TOTAL, with whom we celebrate 25 years of collaboration.”

“The Le Mans Hypercar project provides us possibilities for joint development on the entire energy system of the car. We can work on the efficiency of our fuels – for all the competitors, as the exclusive supplier- or for the lube, specifically designed for hybrid vehicles. It will also allow TOTAL and SAFT to study new battery solutions alongside Peugeot,” said Philippe Montanteme, TOTAL’s Strategy/Marketing & Research Director.

The choice of the LMH category was dictated by several criteria, one being that of a certain aerodynamic freedom. This makes it possible to incorporate, with the support of Peugeot Design, the aesthetic detail of the brand. Draft sketches have already been prepared which show the first design thoughts and verify the fundamental required elements, particularly in terms of dimensions.

The hypercar specifications
After various phases of studies for the general structure, the aerodynamic concept and the choice of engine architecture will come the final decision of the electrical framework. This will lead to development of the hybrid powertrain that can generate 500 kW.

“The hypercar will have 4-wheel drive, equipped – as required by the regulations – with an electric motor and a maximum power of 200 kW on the front axle. The total power level will be identical to that of a 100% thermal 2-wheel drive car (500 kW or approximately 680 ps) that will be distributed between the 2 axles. In comparison with what we currently know in LMP1, the car will be heavier so as to be compatible with road vehicles. It will also be longer and slightly wider,” revealed Olivier Jansonnie, Technical Director WEC program at Peugeot Sport which will be involved.

“This regulation is also different because it incorporates ‘BoP’ or ‘Balance of Performance’. It certainly sets limits, but also allows room for many technical possibilities in our development, specifically on the general shape, as long as a certain overall aerodynamic efficiency is not exceeded. This will be measured in a 1:1 scale wind tunnel and which will be part of the BOP,” explained Jansonnie.

Debut in 2022
He added that the aerodynamic concept has been confirmed, engine framework has been decided and the functionality of the hybrid system and its fundamental design are chosen. “We still have several steps left before our debut in endurance in 2022,” he said.

Peugeot is no stranger to Le Mans and endurance racing, having successfully competed with the 908 turbodiesel in earlier years. It stopped participation suddenly after 2011 due to a decline in sales as the company needed to conserve resources on the launch of new models.

“This category unites our entire company and all of our entities, with features and technologies similar to those of our production cars. We are coming back to endurance racing because we have the opportunity to work the sport in a different way, with the hybridization of petrol and electricity. Peugeot Sport is changing its identity and launching its label of electrified high-performance vehicles. This endurance program allows us to integrate ourselves fully into the transition of energies,” declared Imparato.