Here they are! For the first time in history, the lovely showgirls of the Bangkok International Motorshow were given a ‘catwalk’ down the main thoroughfare!
Stay tuned for more to come!
Here they are! For the first time in history, the lovely showgirls of the Bangkok International Motorshow were given a ‘catwalk’ down the main thoroughfare!
Stay tuned for more to come!
MICHELIN Malaysia kicked-off 2018 with the MICHELIN OFF-ROAD DAYS event from 20 to 23 March to showcase MICHELIN’s range of SUV and 4 x 4 tyres, including its latest innovation in on- and off-road tyres – the MICHELIN LTX FORCE.
The MICHELIN LTX FORCE features both on-road and off-road capabilities and toughness – from asphalt highways, concrete roads, to unpaved, gravel, sand, and wet mud path. The week-long event saw a diverse group of tyre and car enthusiasts test drive and experience first-hand the adaptability of the MICHELIN LTX FORCE tyres at on- and off-road terrains in the Sepang Circuit.
Consumers were able to experience the tyres’ full potential on various vehicles, including the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Fortuner, as well as witness on-site comparison against other tyres in the market. Themed “By Passion, By Necessity”, the event was aimed at the SUV and 4×4 market segment which is a growing market globally. The theme also addresses the need of today’s drivers who travel for work and leisure, from the daily worker to the avid adventurer.
In Malaysia, the SUV / 4×4 segment accounts for almost 12% of total Passenger Vehicles sold in 2017 – or 61,275 units – according to the Malaysian Automotive Association. Global Insights estimates that the SUV market is expected to grow at a rate of 9.7% by the year 2022, while the Malaysia Tire Forecast and Opportunity Report projects tyre sales to increase by 6.6% the same period.
MICHELIN Malaysia’s Managing Director, Mr. Pascal Nouvellon (above) revealed: “Over the past two years, the SUV tyre segment has outgrown the passenger car tyre segment globally; and will continue to do so for the next five years as more people are seeking safety and versatility in vehicles and would expect the same from their tyres. At MICHELIN, we strive to deliver tyre safety that people deserve – simply.”
The MICHELIN LTX FORCE’s on-road capabilities are enabled by CompacTread Technology, whereby reinforcement between tread blocks increases the contact area with the ground, for better braking and safety; BevelTread Technology, whereby a rounded sloping edge cuts the peaks of noise power at the frequency which is sensitive to human ears, thus providing a peaceful ride; and CushionGuard Technology, which absorbs road imperfections for a more comfortable drive.
Its off-road toughness is enabled by Extended Sidewall Biting Edge, which improves the sidewall’s cut-chip resistance; plus Deep and Open Shoulder Design for off-road traction. True to its tagline “Whatever The Terrain, One Tyre Handles It”, the MICHELIN LTX FORCE is the best option for drivers who seek the best driving experience on all types of roads.
“Off-road technologies behind the MICHELIN LTX FORCE are derived from the World Rally Championship (WRC), one of the world’s most demanding rallies – thus, providing another example of MICHELIN’s “From Track to Street” philosophy. At the same time, on-road technologies improve braking performance on both wet and dry roads, as well as increases durability. Through a series of tests held at the event, consumers could witness the MICHELIN LTX FORCE braking to an average distance of 2 meters shorter versus its competitors on-road, which is a crucial safety feature. Third party studies also revealed that the tyre delivers 35% more mileage” added Mr. Nouvellon.
With the MICHELIN LTX FORCE, customers can be ensured of safety and versatility with excellent on-road grip and great off-road traction, as well as of longevity and durability with better mileage and a tougher design.
MICHELIN LTX FORCE is available in a wide range of fitments – from 15 to 18 inches – at TYREPLUS car service outlets, MICHELIN EXPERT CENTRE and authorized dealers across the nation.
Here’s a 360-degree video look at the Aston Martin, BMW and Mercedes-Benz pavilions at BIMS 2018!
ASTON MARTIN
BMW
Mercedes-Benz
The 2018 Bangkok International Motorshow is a GO! Here’s the video of the launch gambit that happened earlier today…
As you can see, it’s been a tradition of sorts for BIMS to have all heads of the various car companies taking part to be up on stage for the official opening ceremony, which is something quite unique to BIMS; can’t think of another motorshow that does this.
So let’s get on with it shall we? Here’s the first official photos from BIMS 2018! More to come so stay tuned!
FORD…
Undoubtedly, the star of BIMS 2018 is the all-new Ford Ranger Raptor. Here’s the launch video taken moments ago…
Boasting 500Nm of torque, it’s one of the most striking vehicles at BIMS this year, and garnering the lion’s share of shutterbug action, not to mention selfies with the thing…
It costs B1.69 million here, which works out to about RM170,000, and is slated to be launched in Malaysia by the middle of 2018. We can’t wait!
PORSCHE…
Needless to say, the new GT2RS is getting the most attention at the Porsche pavilion! And it’s easy to see why…
MERCEDES-BENZ…
Achingly gorgeous is the new GTc AMG, crews were constantly wiping drool off the car, I kid you not…
And of course this mean green machine parked next to it wasn’t short of attention either…
KIA…
Ah, the Kia Stinger! Seen it in the metal at the MAI Malaysia Autishow last year, but it still takes my breath away…
AUDI…
Check out how much the new R8 Coupe costs!
Yes, that’s just shy of Baht 19 million!
Well, no one wants to read about a motorshow, so enjoy the photos below cos I’m heading back into the show! Stay tuned for lots more to come! – Chris Wee.
BIMS 2018 First Day Photo Gallery…
The 2018 Maserati Ghibli, the marque’s best-selling vehicle in its history is now available to the Malaysian market at Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati. The 2018 Maserati Ghibli comes with subtle restyling and a rich array of hi-tech features. Two distinctive trims are included in the new model range, each using their own exclusive voice to bring out the luxurious elegance and race-bred performance unique to Maserati.
Datuk Wira Hj SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, Naza World Group Executive Chairman, said, “After four years of remarkable success in the international and local markets, the Ghibli’s exterior has been respectfully restyled to emphasize both its elegance and its sportiness – the pillars of Maserati signature personality. Faithful to its DNA, the new Ghibli range offers unmistakable class, top-quality performance and a stylish yet comfortable driving experience. Malaysian Maserati aficionados are bound to be excited with this latest Maserati offering.”
The new Ghibli which made its debut in the 2017 Frankfurt Motorshow shares its core architecture – chassis, suspension layout, V6 engines and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission with the flagship Maserati Quattroporte but is 293 mm shorter and 50 kg lighter.
The car’s perfect weight distribution, front double-wishbone/rear multi-link suspension and standard Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), guarantee the razor-sharp road handling for which Maserati models are famed. The five-star Euro NCAP safety rating and integrated Advanced Driving Assistance Systems ensure total peace of mind for both driver and passengers.
The new trim strategy enriches the experience with two distinctive trims – GranLusso and GranSport. Both are available as an upgrade of the all-powerful versions – Ghibli 350 Hp and Ghibli S 430Hp.
Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport are both immediately recognisable thanks to their unique exterior features and exclusive interiors. The exterior design stands out for its coupe-like attitude as well as for several unique features: the distinctive C-pillar bearing the iconic Saetta logo, the frameless doors, the pronounced grille that resembles iconic Maserati cars of the ‘50s, and the range-standard quadruple chromium-plated exhaust pipes.
The addition of the Ghibli GranLusso and GranSport to the range drove the Design Centre in Turin to give each trim a clear identity, primarily by restyling the front and rear bumpers. While visually discreet, this aerodynamically optimised changes accentuate the original’s sporty yet luxurious style.
The aerodynamic efficiency of the restyled Ghibli has improved by 7%, reducing the drag coefficient to 0.29 from 0.31 in 2017.
All petrol versions of the Ghibli were manufactured by Ferrari in Maranello and feature the acclaimed Euro 6 homologated Twin Turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, in conjunction with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.
The top-range Ghibli S version now delivers 430 hp and 580 Nm peak torque, 20 Hp and 30 Nm more than the 2017 car. The increased power output gives the Maserati sports sedan a top speed of 286 km/h and better acceleration. The new Ghibli S accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.
Ghibli and Quattroporte are the first Maserati models to adopt the Integrated Vehicle Control (IVC) system by Bosch, which helps to prevent (rather than simply correct) vehicle instability, providing enhanced active safety, improved driving dynamics and an even more thrilling performance. A new ADAS package is optionally available in the restyled Ghibli. In addition to the existing features, it includes functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) is another first for Maserati. This improves the car’s handling and comfort, better supports the driving modes and enables the newly-introduced active functions of the Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS), while retaining the classically Maserati razor-sharp steering feel.
GranLusso & GranSport: two distinct souls of Ghibli
The baseline Ghibli and the new Ghibli GranLusso share the same design features while the Ghibli GranSport boasts a subtly different exterior that underlines its sportier character.
The front bumper incorporates a larger grille with a ‘sharknose’ profile and integrated chrome bars. This concave grille is inspired by the Alfieri Concept and adds a three-dimensional effect to the car’s frontal aspect.
The air duct has also been restyled for 2018 Ghibli. Wide open and more linear on the Ghibli and Ghibli GranLusso, it features a sportier layout on the Ghibli GranSport with two wings virtually supporting the grille, separating the central splitter from the side air ducts. This design visually accentuates the width of the car, conveying an extra sense of stability from the front.
The headlights have maintained the same contour. The full Ghibli model range is equipped with the all new, Adaptive full LED headlights developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, while the baseline model uses Bi-Xenon technology.
The new Ghibli GranLusso reinterprets the concept of luxury in a sports sedan by enhancing the exterior finish and improving on-board comfort for both driver and passengers. This most elegant expression of the Ghibli uses exclusive materials and special features in the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship. Externally, it is distinguished by its Adaptive full LED headlights, chrome inserts on the front bumper, GranLusso badge at the base of the front wing, body-colour side skirts, silver brake calipers and 20” Urano Diamond alloy wheels.
The Ermenegildo Zegna Silk interior features patented mulberry silk inserts on the seats, doors panels, roof lining and ceiling light fixture. The tailored seat details and the label on the sun visors, complemented by a Ebano wood trim and Ebony wood-finished leather steering wheel, make this trim unique and exclusive, beautifully epitomising the GranLusso soul.
This uniquely luxurious trim includes Comfort seats with extensive 12-way power adjustment as standard, as well as power-adjustable steering wheel and foot pedals, parking sensors and new Soft Close Doors.
The Ghibli GranSport takes its inspiration from the legendary racing heritage of Maserati. This specific trim was conceived to meet the needs of customers seeking a sportier expression of a high-end sedan in the segment.
Externally, the GranSport features Adaptive full LED headlights and is also recognisable for the Black Piano inserts on the front bumper, the GranSport badge on the front wing, body-colour side skirts, blue inserts on all Trident and Saetta logos, red brake calipers and, last but not least, the 21” Titano Anthracite alloy wheels.
The Sport 12-way power full leather seats and Sport steering wheel create an inspiring mix for the driving aficionado. The interior of the Ghibli GranSport also features standard gearshift paddles and Inox sport foot pedals. The Ghibli and Ghibli GranSport can be further customised with an Exterior Carbon Package for an even more emphatic message
about Ghibli’s racing heritage. It covers the external door mirrors, B- and C-pillar covers and door handles on the base trim, as well as the front splitter and rear spoiler on the GranSport.
The Ghibli enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 618,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) for the standard model while the GranLusso and the GranSport are priced at RM 668,800.00. All three models include 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).
The Ghibli S enters the Malaysian market at the starting price of RM 718,800.00 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) for the standard model while the GranLusso is priced at RM 768,800.00 and the GranSport at RM 768,800.00. All three models include 5 years Standard Warranty coverage with no mileage restriction plus a Free maintenance program of 5 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first (Inclusive of *Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 Years /60,000KM).
The public is invited to head over to Naza Italia’s showroom in Petaling Jaya to view and test drive the Ghibli range and speak with Naza Italia’s sales team in greater detail about Maserati’s newest offering.
Follow @maserati.malaysia (Instagram) and www.facebook/maserati.malaysia for the brand’s latest updates in Malaysia.
Maserati Ghibli Photo Gallery (Full specifications after the gallery)
| GHIBLI | GHIBLI S | |
| Layout | Petrol 600 V6, Twin-Turbo – direct injection GDI | |
| Displacement (cc) | 2,979 | |
| Max. power (kW/hp @ rpm) | 257/350 @ 5,500 | 316/430 @ 5,750 |
| Peak Torque (Nm/rpm) | 500 @ 4,500 | 580 @ 2,250 – 4,000 |
| Consumption NEDC (l/100 km) | 8.9 | 9.6 |
| CO2 emissions combined (g/km) | 207 | 223 |
| 0-100km/h (sec) | 5.5 | 4.9 |
| Top Speed (km/h) | 267 | 286 |
| 100-0 km/h (metres) | 35.5 | 35.0 |
| Gearbox | 8-speed ZF automatic AT8 – HP70 | |
| Transmission | RWD with Limited-Slip Differential | |
| Front Suspension | double wishbone, anti-roll bar | |
| Rear Suspension | multi-Link, anti-roll bar | |
| Length/width/height (mm) | 4,971 / 1,945 / 1,461 | |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,998 | |
| Tyres (standard) | 235/50 R18 (front) 275/45 R18 (rear) | |
Trivia: The NAZA Italia flagship showroom for Ferrari & Maserati was officially opened by His Majesty the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong on 31 March 2009.
It’s the truck everyone has been waiting for, priced at 1,699,000 Baht, the new Ford Ranger Raptor has been unveiled!
Stay tuned for more to come from BIMS 2018!
The Porsche GT3 does not need an introduction, it is probably the epitome of performance in its segment. Engineered to be raw, wild yet tameable, the 911 GT3 promises unparalleled performance to the discerning few. And it is about to get even better for those interested to buy one in Malaysia.
Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the company behind brand Porsche in Malaysia, introduced three unique GT3’s exclusively for the Malaysian market, and these are – Meissen Blue, Signal Green and Riviera Blue.
These new colours were ordered by SDAP through the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur, a department within Porsche that specialises in bespoke modifications for their owners. And this means that there is a very good chance that whoever ends up buying these cars, will probably be the only person with such a colour in Malaysia, the region, and though there is a lesser chance of it happening, but maybe even the world.
These unique GT3’s don’t only offer a special colour, but according to a press release sent out by SDAP, also offer a mixture of high-quality materials such as leather interior package featuring extended alcantara detailing. And nothing shouts performance than the colour red, and that is exactly the colour adorning the instrument dials, seat belts and the Sport Chrono stop watch, all of which are painted in a colour Porsche calls Guards Red. The cars also feature illuminated carbon door sill guards and body-guard air vents.
Just to recap, the Porsche 911 GT3 offers a power-to-weight ratio of 2.86 kg/hp with an overall weight of 1,430kg. The car transfers all of its 500hp to the rear wheels via a seven-speed double-clutch transmission (PDK), and even with a full tank of fuel, the GT3 demolishes the 0-100km/h sprint in just 3.4 seconds, on to a top speed of 318km/h. But if you opt for the manual transmission, the GT3 sees off the 0-100km/h run in 3.9 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 320km/h.
And just for your information, the 4.0, flat-six engine is the same engine that powers the 911 GT3 Cup race car.
Full press release: Sime Darby Auto Performance unveils three exclusive and unique 911 GT3
Riviera Blue
Signal Green
Meissen Blue
Think of a motorcycle engine builder, and there is a very good chance that Mugen will not be the first to come to mind. In fact, powerhouses such as S&S and even Polaris are the first companies that come to mind. Mugen is usually associated with Hondas, actually, very mad Hondas. Hardcore, modified beyond the point of horsepower recognition type of Hondas. In Malaysia at least.
Mugen is also a specialised engine builder that supplied engines to Formula 1 teams like Lotus, Ligier and even Jordan, with whom the company achieved a 1-2 finish in Spa-Francorchamps in 98.
But the truth is, Mugen has been dabbling in motorcycles for a while now. In the 70s, the company, which was founded by the son of Soichiro Honda, created a prototype engine called the MRV1000. It was a 1000cc engine featuring twin-carburettors, but it never made production.
And then, in 2012, Mugen collaborated with Honda to produce an all-electric superbike to race in the Isle of Man TT. The legendary race has a class for all-electric superbikes called TT Zero, in which the Mugen-Honda powered superbikes have been dominant ever since. And just for your information, the average speed of Mugen-Honda electric bikes have increased from 165km/h in 2012, to 192km/h in 2015.
Now though, the company seems quite serious about dabbling into proper internal combustion engines for motorcycles with its latest engine concept called the MRV1400.
Showcased at the recently concluded Tokyo Motorcycle Show, the new engine concept is a 1400cc engine featuring a similar layout to its ancestor, with distinctive pushrod tubes and a separate transmission.
At the show, the engine was showcased next to a drawing of a sleek naked roadster, with Mugen even going as far as requesting show-goers for feedback on whether or not it should build the new MRV1400. Interestingly the new engine also features Keihin carburettors, but in these days of strict emission standards, it is unlikely that a carburettor engine will meet emission regulations. Sadly, Mugen will need fuel injectors if it wants its engine to see the light of day.
So what about production? The company says that even if the engine does make it to full-time production, it will not happen before 2020, and it will take even more time for the engine to make it into a full-fledged production motorcycle.
I’ve literally just stepped through the doors of the Bangkok International Motorshow 2018 having collected my media pass at the press centre, and BIMS 2018 hasn’t officially begun yet, but here’s the first of many videos to come!
This is by no means the whole show, not by a long-shot, I haven’t even scratched the surface of what’s in store at IMPACT Challenger Muang Thong Thani in the outskirts of Bangkok. It’s the largest pillar-less hall in SEA, and definitely a sight to behold.
The official opening ceremony is set for tomorrow morning, 27th March 2018, and the show runs from 28th March to 8th April. Stay tuned for a lot more to come!
2018 is starting well for local racer-gal Leona Chin. Following her placing as second overall in the Renault Clio Cup China Series in 2016 and a 1 year hiatus, she’s back at it again in the newly-launched MINI Challenge Asia Series. This one-make race featuring the MINI F56 JCW – a 255hp, sequential gearbox equipped race car based on the road-going F56 JCW.
The MINI Challenge Asia Series sees the world-renowned MINI one-make race series making it’s way to Asia, with the hopes that it will eventually grow in scale to match that of the series 17 years history in the UK.
Over the course of the weekend, Leona proved she could tangle with some of the best drivers in the region. Two notable opponents were Nobuhiro Murata, a Japan Super GT driver, and Nattanid ‘Kat’ Leewatanavalagul, current best female driver from Thailand. For this round, Leona is racing under Team GreatDrive – a well-established Hong Kong based automobile importer.
The first leg of the series was held at Zhuhai International Circuit – a track that Leona is familiar with herself given her past racing experience in China. During free practice Leona managed to clock a time just 1 second off the top spot. The field was separated by 16 seconds, with the top 5 drivers placing within 7 seconds of each other. Murata did not manage to finish qualifying as he went off the track during his session.
When it came time to race, Leona’s competitor pulled slightly ahead during Race 1, she finished the race with a 4th place standing, just half a second behind Takaya Tsubobayashi. For Race 2 the positions were shuffled once again., and Leona took the opportunity to overtake Tsubobayashi for a 3rd place finish, just 1 second behind Nobuhiro Murata. During the race she also managed to set a fastest lap time of 1:54.188, roughly half a second quicker than Henry Lee Jr. who took victory over the weekend.
Following the end of Race 1 and 2, Leona felt positive about the outcome and the coming races. “I would like to thank GreatDrive for giving me the opportunity to compete in this round of MINI Challenge Asia Series. The car performed well during both races, really easy to drive and light on its feet.” she said. “It’s a nice step up from the Clio cup car I raced 2 years ago. I’m looking forward to the next round on the 16th and 17th June, which also be at Zhuhai International Circuit.”
Leona Chin has been involved in cars and motorsports since her teenage years. She has had experience in various levels of motorsports, competing both within Malaysia and overseas as well, along with off-track exploits such as Gymkhana, Autocross, Rallying and – most notably of all – drifting.
She currently has roles both as a driver and a manager for teams in various series, and is continuously honing her skills and looking for new challenges.
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