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Jaguar Land Rover’s Predictive Touch Technology can help reduce spread of viruses

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on changes to many different aspects of life to fight the coronavirus. One of the important measures is the reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses, which can be on the many surfaces we come in contact with. Researchers are also beginning to find that the viruses can float in the air for a while too.

For the auto industry, urgent work has been carried out to develop systems and switch to materials that can help in the fight against bacteria and viruses. The latest development is from Jaguar Land Rover which, together with the University of Cambridge, has a new contactless touchscreen technology. This will also help keep drivers’ eyes on the road, improving motoring safety.

The patented technology, known as ‛predictive touch’, uses artificial intelligence and sensors to predict a user’s intended target on the touchscreen – whether that’s satellite navigation, temperature controls or entertainment settings – without actually touching a button.

The pioneering system, developed with engineers at the University of Cambridge, is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s ‘Destination Zero’ vision – a desire to make its vehicles safer and the environment cleaner and healthier.

In the ‘new normal’ once lockdowns around the world are lifted, a greater emphasis will be placed on safe, clean mobility where personal space and hygiene will carry premiums. Jaguar Land Rover vehicles are already designed to help improve passenger wellbeing, with innovations including a Driver Condition Monitor, engine noise cancellation and cabin air ionisation with PM2.5 filtration to capture ultrafine particles and allergens.

New technology like predictive touch is another step forward in addressing the wider landscape of mobility, from how customers connect with mobility services, to the infrastructure required to enable fully integrated, autonomous vehicles in cities.

Lab tests and on-road trials have shown the predictive touch technology could reduce a driver’s touchscreen interaction effort and time by up to 50%. At the same time, this will limit the spread of bacteria and viruses from the touchscreen surface to fingers.

Uneven or poor road surfaces can often cause vibrations that make it difficult to select the correct button on a touchscreen. This means drivers must take their attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident. The technology uses artificial intelligence to determine the item the user intends to select on the screen early in the pointing task, speeding up the interaction.

A gesture tracker uses vision-based or radio frequency-based sensors, which are increasingly common in consumer electronics, to combine contextual information such as user profile, interface design and environmental conditions with data available from other sensors, such as an eye-gaze tracker, to infer the user’s intent in real time.

Land Rover — *Existing displays need not be replaced as the technology is a software-based solution using artificial intelligence.*

This software-based solution for contactless interactions has reached high technology readiness levels. It can be seamlessly integrated into existing touchscreens and interactive displays, so long as the correct sensory data is available to support the machine learning algorithm. This means that existing systems do not need to change, keeping costs down.

“As countries around the world exit lockdown, we notice how many everyday consumer transactions are conducted using touchscreens: railway or cinema tickets, ATMs, airport check-ins and supermarket self-service checkouts, as well as many industrial and manufacturing applications. Predictive touch technology eliminates the need to touch an interactive display and could therefore reduce the risk of spreading bacteria or viruses on surfaces,” said Lee Skrypchuk, Human Machine Interface Technical Specialist at Jaguar Land Rover.

“The technology also offers us the chance to make vehicles safer by reducing the cognitive load on drivers and increasing the amount of time they can spend focused on the road ahead. This is a key part of our Destination Zero journey.”

New Land Rover Defender gets advanced connectivity with world-first dual e-SIM hardware

Three-Dimensional Wood trim – a world-first by Bentley

There’s something about wood which adds classiness to a car’s interior. Perhaps it brings to mind the days when wood was the primary material for trim, instead of plastic and metal, and it was handcrafted rather than moulded. Wood trim is a mark of luxury and therefore a must for the prestigious brands.

So far, wood panels have had flat surfaces, polished or natural but now Bentley is offering a ground-breaking new Three-Dimensional Wood trim with the all-new Flying Spur. Used for the rear door trim, Three-Dimensional Wood is a world-first in the automotive sector.

Available from Bentley Mulliner Collections
The trim has a striking, diamond-shaped pattern enhanced with a three-dimensional surface finish machined directly into the wood. The new option is one of the unique veneer choices from the Bentley Mulliner Collections and forms a contemporary luxury design statement, bringing tactility to the natural beauty of wood.

Each rear door and quarter panel is handcrafted from a single block of sustainable American Walnut or American Cherry timber, in a harmonious marriage of traditional skills and modern technology. The Three-Dimensional Wood parts are not made using veneers, as is typically applied to the fascia and waist rails. Instead, each is created from a single block of timber.

The concept for 3D-machined wood was first shown in Bentley’s EXP 10 Speed 6 concept car at the Geneva Motor Show in 2015. The distinctive feature was inspired by the form of leather used for the diamond-quilted areas in Bentley’s Mulliner Driving Specification interior suite.

18 months of development
Three-Dimensional Wood required 18 months of production development by expert technical craftsmen before Bentley Mulliner could then bring the complex concept to reality. To achieve the three-dimensional surface, skilled operators carve the wood with a multi-axis routing machine to a tolerance of 0.1 mm, less than the thickness of a human hair, hand-finishing the cuts for perfect results. An open-pore lacquer is then applied, allowing the true colour and texture of the wood to shine through for a refined, natural appearance.

The back or ‘B surface’ of the log is machined to match a die-cast aluminium door panel template. The timber is then bonded to the template before the assembly is placed back into the machine and the front or ‘A surface’ is cut into its three-dimensional form.

Highest quality sustainable timbers
Both American Walnut and American Cherry timber are sustainably sourced from North American hardwood forests. Bentley selects only the very finest timbers, with no knots or resin inclusions through the depth of the wood. Only these logs offer an attractive grain and smooth finish, plus a natural texture and warm colour to complement the superbly appointed Flying Spur cabin.

American Walnut and American Cherry are both popular growing stock in North America, offering an abundant supply of sustainable wood. American Cherry woodland is increasing by more than 7 million cubic metres each year after harvest, while American Walnut is increasing by 3 million cubic metres.

American Walnut is one of the most sought-after species of wood in markets around the world. It is darker than European Walnut, as well as tough, hard and of medium density. American Cherry is highly prized for furniture and interior joinery – the wood finish varies from rich red to reddish brown.

2020 New Bentley Flying Spur — *The New Bentley Flying Spur*

From concept to production reality
“Three-Dimensional Wood is the next interior design element we’ve taken from concept car idea to production reality. It works in perfect harmony with the three-dimensional leather quilting across the cabin of the Flying Spur and creates an even more special environment for those being driven,” explained Bentley’s Head of Interior Design for the Flying Spur, Brett Boydell.

“The principle of milling a geometric three-dimensional diamond form into solid wood was so well received at Geneva, it confirmed the value in translating the concept into reality for the customers of Bentley’s all-new Flying Spur,” he said.

How Bentley ensures the highest quality for its cars

Jeep will bring back the V8 Wrangler

During the past 10 years, the auto industry has been downsizing engines as a way to reduce consumption, toxic exhaust emissions and also weight. Thanks to turbocharging and direct fuel injection, the engine outputs have actually increased in spite of displacements decreasing.

But while most people are happy with smaller, more fuel-efficient engines, Americans still miss the big ones that have been typical in their vehicles, especially the vee engines. Jeep fans, in particular, have been wishing for a V8 Wrangler in recent years, and their request has been noted. The last time a Jeep was offered with a V8 engine was in 1981 when the CJ had a 5-litre V8.

*1981 Jeep CJ Renegade was the last model with a V8.*

Yes, a V8 is returning
As an indication they may soon get their wish, Jeep has revealed the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept. This has a huge 6.4-litre V8 engine that delivers 450 bhp/610 Nm and can go from 0 to 96 km/h in a timed of less than 5 seconds, it is claimed.

“Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts have been asking us for a Wrangler V8, and our new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept proves that we have the ability to make that happen,” said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America. “From the recently introduced Wrangler EcoDiesel, to our award-winning Jeep Gladiator, and the upcoming Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, Jeep is clearly listening to its customers. We are anxious to gauge their reaction to this new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept, a vehicle that delivers an incredible and unmatched level of fun-to-drive performance and capability, on- and off-road.”

Capability on and off-road
To accommodate the massive 6.4-litre V8 engine and stronger 8-speed transmission, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept has upgraded engine mounts and a modified frame. Suspension upgrades include new aluminium, monotube Fox shocks for improved damping and heat dissipation. A dual-mode exhaust alters the performance sound at the touch of a button.

The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept boasts even more capability courtesy of third-generation Dana 44 axles, a Selec-Track full-time 2-speed transfer case, Tru-Lok electric front and rear-axle locking differentials. 37-inch mud-terrain tyres wrap around custom 17-inch beadlock wheels that hold tyres to rims under extreme lateral loads, allowing for reduced tyre pressure operation and added traction.

The factory-fitted Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit from Mopar enables additional suspension articulation for improved approach, breakover and departure angles. There are also Rubicon rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan – all to ensure protection when going over the roughest terrain.

Custom design inside and out
The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept features Granite Crystal exterior paint adorned with bronze accentuated tow hooks, badging, springs, shocks and wheels, while featuring a heavy-duty raised performance bonnet with an aggressive appearance. Custom half doors and Wrangler’s Sky One-touch powertop, with removable side panels allow for open-air freedom when weather conditions are nice enough.

The vehicle made its appearance just recently and Jeep is doing final real-world testing before launching the production version. It’s not likely to be a long wait as Jeep must be eager to have a new model to prevent Ford’s new Bronco from drawing too many customers.

2020 Jeep Renegade Plug-In Hybrid previewed in Paris

Toyota revises brand emblem in Europe

It seems to be the season for changing brand emblems with some of the global players introducing new or evolved emblems that reflect the digital age. Nissan recently debuted its new brand emblem and now Toyota is doing likewise but is using the new emblem only for Europe, not globally.

Announced by Toyota Motor Europe (TME), the brand emblem and design language are essentially reworked versions of the existing emblem and typography. The intent is to signal a new era for the carmaker as it transitions from a car company to a mobility company.

In describing the changes, TME says that the development has been ’around an ever-diverse customer base coming to the brand for an expanding range of mobility products and services’.

The new design language is ‘fluent’ across all digital and physical touchpoints. The new visual identity is driven by simplification and has been shaped by four key principles: forward-thinking, mobile-ready, more premium feel and ultra- consistent across all business units and sub-brands.

New Brand Visual Identity
At a glance, most people will wonder what the change is as the three ellipses are still in the same arrangement as they have been all along since 1990. But the emblem has a 3-dimensional appearance and the TOYOTA wordmark is usually under it. The new emblem logo for TME distils this into a simple 2-D design, with the wordmark omitted. TME is confident that the emblem itself is sufficiently well-known across Europe by now.

The current Toyota emblem (left), introduced in 1989, will continue to be used but for Europe, there will be a new emblem (right).

2020 Toyota Rush — *The current brand emblem will continue to be used for Toyota vehicles globally.*

The design is said to communicate simplicity, transparency and modernity. It is especially adapted to the digital space but equally effective in the physical world. It will be applied across all communication touchpoints, while the current emblem will still be used for the vehicles. The current signage at outlets will remain in place and will be reviewed in the context of Toyota 2025 Network Strategy.

New typography
The new visual identity also comes with a new bespoke typography called Toyota Type. This has been multi-purposed for both on-line and off-line environments. It marks a step up in digital readiness as the company expands its online retailing in Europe.

In conjunction with these changes, TME’s different business areas will undergo naming changes. For example, Toyota Insurance Management is now renamed Toyota Insurance Services as its business expands with the growth of connected services and new mobility products. In the used cars area, Toyota Plus now becomes Toyota Approved Used.

“We developed the new brand visual design with ‘tomorrow’ in mind. Our focus was on enabling ever better customer connections allowing them to keep pace with Toyota’s rapid expansion of electrified vehicles, mobility services and online retailing. The design was re-purposed to better connect with customers across a diversity of touchpoints, which they can experience for the first time with the launch New Yaris Hybrid, the all-new 4th generation of our innovative city car,” said Didier Gambart, Vice-President, Sales, Marketing & Customer Experience, Toyota Motor Europe.

Toyota’s has had three main brand emblems over 85 years. The one on the left had the original name and was registered in July 1935. However, a year later, the brand emblem was changed to one which had the name ‘TOYOTA’ in Japanese kanji characters (centre). This would be used for many years and while there were some other emblems used, the next major new one was introduced in 1989 (right) which remains in use up till today.

Click here for other news and articles about Toyota.

Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400 generates 1,400 horsepower! (w/VIDEO)

Even before the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E reaches its first customers in America at the end of this year, the carmaker has come out with a ‘special’ to show off its performance. The one-off Mustang is called the Mach-E 1400 and where, in the old days, the ‘1400’ might have referred to the engine size, in this case it refers to the output of 1,400 horsepower.

The prototype can generate that much power with 7 electric motors and not a drop of petrol is needed. The chassis and powertrain work together for a multitude of track set-ups offering capability unlike any other vehicle.

“Now is the perfect time to leverage electric technology, learn from it, and apply it to our line-up,” said Ron Heiser, Chief Program Engineer for the Mustang Mach-E. “Mustang Mach-E is going to be fun to drive, just like every other Mustang before it, but Mustang Mach-E 1400 is completely insane, thanks to the efforts of Ford Performance and RTR.”

The Mustang Mach-E 1400 is the result of 10,000 hours of collaboration by Ford Performance and RTR aimed at bridging the gap between what an electric vehicle can do and what customers tend to believe it can do.

“Getting behind the wheel of this car has completely changed my perspective on what power and torque can be,” said Vaughn Gittin Jr., RTR Vehicles founder, motorsports champion and professional fun-haver. “This experience is like nothing you’ve ever imagined, except for maybe a magnetic roller-coaster.”

The Mustang Mach-E 1400 has taken shape without rules. The Ford design team and RTR used many of the same tools Ford uses for its racing cars and production programs. Aerodynamics are optimized for shape and location, with a focus on cooling ducts, front splitter, dive planes and rear wing.

There are 5 extra electric motors compared to the Mustang Mach-E GT. Three are attached to the front differential and four are attached to the rear in pancake style, with a single driveshaft connecting them to the differentials, which have a huge range of adjustability to set the car up for everything from drifting to high-speed track racing.

“The challenge was controlling the extreme levels of power provided by the 7 motors,” said Mark Rushbrook, Motorsports Director, Ford Performance. “Mustang Mach-E 1400 is a showcase of the art of the possible with an electric vehicle.”

The chassis and powertrain are set up to allow the team to investigate different layouts and their effects on energy consumption and performance, including rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.

Drift and track setups have completely different front end configurations like control arms and steering changes to allow for extreme steering angles in drifting. Power delivery can be split evenly between front and rear, or completely to one or the other. Downforce is targeted at more than 1,045 kgs at almost 260 km/h.

The 56.8-kWh battery pack contains nickel manganese cobalt pouch cells for ultra-high performance and a high discharge rate. The battery system is designed to be cooled during charging using a di-electric coolant, decreasing the time needed between runs.

An electronic brake booster is integrated to allow series regenerative braking combined with ABS and stability control to optimize the braking system. The Mustang Mach-E 1400 is fitted with Brembo brakes, like the Mustang GT4 racing car, and a hydraulic handbrake system designed for drifting that integrates with the powertrain controls to enable the ability to shut off power to the rear motors.

It is set to debut at a NASCAR race soon and will serve as a test bed for new materials. The bonnet is made of organic composite fibres, a lightweight alternative to the carbonfibre that is used on the rest of the bodywork.

The Ford Mustang is officially sold in Malaysia with full aftersales support and warranty. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.

Ford Mustang is bestselling sportscar in the world – for the fifth consecutive year

RFID tag can now be used on PLUS highways in Kedah and Penang

If you are driving on PLUS highways in Kedah and Penang and your vehicle has a RFID tag, you can now enjoy faster passage through the toll plazas. From today (Wednesday, July 22). All 9 closed toll plazas from Hutan Kampung all the way to Sungai Dua will open their dedicated toll plaza lanes.

The RFID lanes, which can only be used by privately-registered vehicles, have been available at other toll plazas (open toll system) since the beginning of this year. Those have been at Jitra, Lunas, Kubang Semang, Penang Bridge, Mambau, Lukut, Kempas, Perling, Lima Kedai and Tanjung Kupang.

However, plans by PLUS to roll out across its plazas with 84 closed toll systems (payment based on distance travelled) from April 1 2020 had to be deferred due to COVID-19 pandemic which subjected the country to the Movement Control Order (MCO). Since the implementation of the Recovery MCO, PLUS has resumed its program of RFID implementation.

“Our Northern highway customers can enjoy the convenient, swift and safe RFID experience. Aligned to the Government’s directive to move towards Multi Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll highway, the introduction of RFID on closed toll system is a next step to make this goal a reality. The RFID technology allows for faster throughput thus reducing congestion at the toll lanes, which is the primary objective for PLUS adopting it,” said Datuk Azman Ismail, Managing Director of PLUS.

“Coincidently, its cashless and contactless transaction not only reduces human interaction at the lanes, but also eliminates the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Linked to an e-wallet as the source of funds, the RFID will reduce cases of insufficient card balances that cause hold up at lane. The ability to top up the e-wallet online helps replenish e-wallet balances regularly and negates the human interactions at toll plaza (for insufficient card balances) that increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission,” he explained.

Datuk Azman Ismail said PLUS anticipates a positive uptake of RFID tags from Penangites, while highway users in Kedah will want to start using the complementary electronic payment system to the SmartTag.

Touch’nGo Sdn Bhd is giving away 1,500 free RFID tags in a limited time only promotion, and PLUS currently offers complimentary RFID tags on a first come-first served basis (and while stocks last) at selected Fitment Centres in Penang and Kedah only. This is in conjunction with the #JomRFID campaign, especially during the Hutan Kampung-Sungai Dua the public pilot program kick-off.

RFID DIY — Besides going to the Fitment Centres, motorists can also purchase the RFID tag online and attach it to the headlight or windscreen themselves. The price is the same as at the Fitment Centre but you probably have to pay a delivery charge.

To redeem these complimentary RFID tags, customers are required to register as a PLUSMiles member at jomrfid.plusmiles.com.my. They will then receive a voucher code for redemption. After the full redemption of 1,500 complimentary RFID tags, 15,000 users will be able to receive 500 PLUSMiles reward points when purchasing an RFID tag at RM35 each at the selected Fitment Centres.

PLUS customers now have PUTRI to help them with their enquiries

Honda Malaysia reports good demand for latest BR-V

If the 1,400 bookings for the Honda BR-V that Honda Malaysia has collected within a month of its launch are any indication, Malaysians are not entirely turned off buying new cars. The exemption of sales tax (till the end of 2020) must also be acting as an incentive as there are savings too. For Peninsular Malaysia, prices without insurance range from RM86,726 to RM93,696, depending on the variant and colour choice.

According to Honda Malaysia, over 32,600 units of the BR-V, a 7-seater, have been sold since it entered the Malaysian market in 2017. It was an entirely new model which fit into the slot left by the Freed as a family-carrier.

Of the 1,400 bookings, 42% are from the Central region and over 85% are for the V variant, one of the two variants available. More than 24% of the buyers have specified Modern Steel Metallic, one of the 5 colour choices available. So if you want your BR-V a bit faster, pick another colour or better still, just tell the sales representative you will take any colour although you do have to pay extra for the White Orchid Pearl finish.

Honda BR-V colours — *Almost a quarter of bookings are for the BR-V in Lunar Silver Metallic.*

The latest BR-V has received cosmetic updates, typical for a model that is halfway through its cycle. New items include 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and a Shark Fin antenna.

It maintains the 1.5-litre SOHC i-VTEC 120 ps/145 Nm engine coupled with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). For the V variant, there are also paddle shifters on the steering wheel to allow manual selection of gears when desired.

In spite of having space for 7 persons, the BR-V also has a lot of cargo space – up to 223 litres, which can be expanded to 539 litres when the third-row seats are folded down. The seating can be folded to create various configurations to suit different needs so it can be used to send the kids to school and then transport plants back from the nursery or furniture from IKEA.

For more information on the BR-V or other Honda models, visit www.honda.com.my. Test-drives are also available at all authorised Honda showrooms nationwide.

Revised Price List for Honda Models, effective from today till December 31, 2020

Ford owners can now do real-time service booking with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion

Ever since Malaysia had a Movement Control Order (MCO) which was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, life has changed. With Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed so as to prevent spread of the coronavirus, companies have had to quickly formulate new procedures for customer interaction.

At service centres, for example, appointments have to be made in advance to ensure that the number of vehicles and customers is not excessive and affect social distancing. Customers are also required to undergo temperature checks and provide contact details when they visit the facilities, as well as use contactless payments if possible.

Besides adhering to all the SOPs, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has also been looking at ways to make things more convenient for its Ford customers. In another step towards delivering a seamless customer service experience, has digitised its vehicle service appointments by expanding its online booking tool to be capable of managing and confirming service appointments in real-time

Real-time e-Service appointment booking, via the SDAC-Ford website, is currently available at 7 authorised Ford Service Centres – Ford Ara Damansara, Ford Petaling Jaya 2, Ford Juru, Ford Butterworth, Ford Kuching, Ford Kota Kinabalu and Ford Tawau.

“The expansion of the implementation for the real-time e-Service appointment booking will enable customers to immediately know the available vehicle service time slots at their chosen dealership. Delivering this added convenience is yet another demonstration of our commitment to providing a more seamless and digitised experience for our customers,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, MD of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

“In the months to come, we will be looking at fully establishing this real-time e-Service appointment booking for our network of over 40 dealerships nationwide,” added Tuan Syed Muzri.

Booking a service appointment online is simple. Customers just need to visit www.sdacford.com.my and click the ‘Book a Service’ tab. They then select their vehicle model, choose the state in which they are located in, and select their preferred service centre from a drop-down list.

The available date and time slots will then be shown, and customers can schedule a service appointment up to 1 month in advance. Once completed, a confirmation email of the appointment will be sent.

In addition to booking a service appointment online, customers can also schedule their service appointments by calling an authorised Ford Service Centre directly. Booking an appointment is good for both the vehicle owner, who can choose a suitable time and day, as well as SDAC which can manage its operations more efficiently.

Incidentally, if you service your vehicle this month at an authorised Ford service centre, you can save up to 20% on parts and service, plus get a free 27-point vehicle inspection. It’s one way SDAC is helping Ford owners in this difficult times.

Click here for other news and articles about Ford and Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Maserati starts electrification journey with new Ghibli Hybrid

Although Maserati, being at the upper end of the market, has a niche for itself where the character of its cars (and also a SUV) have long been appreciated, it cannot ignore the fact that the automotive world is electrifying. As with SUVs, virtually every brand has or is developing electrically-powered or hybrid models that are the future and Maserati too has an electrification plan for its products.

With the new Ghibli Hybrid, the Italian brand with the Trident as its emblem begins its journey of electrification. It represents one of the most ambitious projects for Maserati, another step forward in its new era following the announcement of the new engine for the MC20 super sportscar.

The choice of the Ghibli to receive a hybrid powertrain is no coincidence. This model, with over 100,000 units produced since its launch in 2013, is said to perfectly embody the manufacturer’s DNA.

Just as BMW, Porsche and Volvo could not release a SUV into the market until it had the brand DNA, it is the same for Maserati which has faced the challenge of entering the world of electrification without altering the brand’s core philosophy and values.

The result? The best possible hybrid sedan the engineers can develop – with the character of a Maserati and that includes the unmistakeable sound (thanks to special resonators). The arrival of the new Ghibli Hybrid thus expands the Maserati range with future-oriented technology.

Hybrid-exclusive styling
The Ghibli Hybrid is immediately recognisable with different styling for the hybrid that features a different grille, with bars redesigned to represent a tuning fork (a musical device that emits a sound of extreme purity). At the rear of the car, the lighting units have their unique style, with a boomerang-like profile inspired by the 3200 GT and Alfieri concept car.

On the exterior, the blue colour characterises the three iconic side air ducts, the brake calipers and the thunderbolt in the oval that encloses the Trident on the rear pillar. The same colour is used as the theme inside, in particular on the embroidered seams of the seats.

2020 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid — *One of the two variants comes with natural silk upholstery by Ermenegildo Zegna*

Mild Hybrid solution
Maserati has chosen a hybrid solution focused primarily on improving performance, while also reducing fuel consumption and cutting exhaust emissions. The hybrid technology exploits kinetic energy the car accumulates when in motion, recovering it and transforming it into electricity during deceleration and braking, and storing it in a battery pack at the rear.

The powertrain is the outcome of in-depth engineering development work by the Maserati Innovation Lab. It combines an internal combustion 2-litre petrol engine (4 cylinders with a turbocharger) with a 48-volt alternator and an additional electric supercharger (e-Booster).

This solution, claimed to be unique in its segment, is the first in a new generation of Maserati powertrains which balance performance, efficiency and driving pleasure. Incidentally, the Ghibli Hybrid weighs about 80 kgs less than the diesel variant.

Maximum power output is 330 ps, with peak torque of 450 Nm delivered from just 1500 rpm. That enables the Ghibli Hybrid to go from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 5.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 255 km/h.

Maserati Connect debuts
Besides electrification, the Ghibli Hybrid also marks the debut of the new Maserati Connect program. This enables a constant connection with the car; the information exchange continues when on the move, to improve the services offered to the driver. As well as the capability of updating the software on board, the system also performs checks on the car and monitors the Safety and Security services in emergencies.

What comes next?
The first cars should leave the factory in late September 2020, with Asian markets likely to see them during the first quarter of next year. Prices will only be announced at a later date, but it is known that there will be at least two variants.

The new Ghibli Hybrid represents the first step in a plan that will lead to the electrification of all new Maserati models. The brand’s first all-electric models will be the new GranTurismo and GranCabrio, scheduled for launch in 2021.

Maserati allows the world to look inside its top secret Innovation Lab

Easy decision-making with new Shell Helix engine oils

Shell’s Helix range of engine oils have been in the market since the 1980s and over the years, the formulation has constantly been improved as engine technology advanced and driving conditions changed. For motorists, the ability to protect and lubricate well has long been proven and Helix is a trusted product.

Now Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd has introduced two new Helix engine oils that focus more on the benefits to users and less on technical specifications, making it easier to choose the right engine oil based on one’s driving style and needs. Compatible with all 0W, 5W or 10W specification oils, both lubricants are suitable for most types of vehicles on Malaysian roads today.

Engine oils are traditionally `low involvement’ products. While Malaysians are known for their love for cars, the majority are put off by technical terms and tend to leave their vehicles’ maintenance, especially the critical oil change process, to their workshops or service centres.

“With the new Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect, we aim to return the important engine oil decision-making to the car owners. As the products’ names suggest, one gives you more power and the other gives you more protection. Simply choose one that suits your driving style or needs,” said Nyon Kam Yew, Shell Lubricants General Manager for Malaysia and Singapore.

With PurePlus Technology, an ultra-pure base oil made from natural gas, the new Helix Power and Helix Protect are specially designed to cater to two main driving environments – highways and rugged terrain – where there is a demand more power and acceleration; and stop-start traffic in cities that put engines under tremendous stress, thereby needing more protection.

Driving conditions — *The new Shell Helix oils can provide better protection in congested city conditions or performance even in off-road conditions.*

Priced at RM280 for a 4-litre pack, Helix Power has special performance-focused additives help to maximise engine power and enable faster acceleration as well as smoother drives. The engine protection-focused additives in Helix Protect help cleanse engine components for longer engine life in cars that operate under stressful stop-start driving conditions in urban centres. The recommended retail price is RM240 for a 4-litre pack.

As low viscosity fully synthetic engine oils, both lubricants can flow faster to coat and protect key moving engine components during start-up. This can contribute to less wear from cold starts, better fuel economy, lower carbon emissions and lower maintenance costs from longer oil drain intervals.

“The new Shell Helix Power and Shell Helix Protect are smarter and more sustainable choices that reflect Shell’s commitment to provide more and cleaner energy solutions in a responsible way,” Mr. Nyon added.

In conjunction with the launch of these new products, Shell Malaysia will give every customer a free replica Scuderia Ferrari racing car with the purchase of a 4-litre pack of Helix Power or Helix Protect from any participating workshop. The offer is on while stocks last.

Official Shell Helix products suited for the Malaysian market conditions have the ‘Untuk Pasaran Malaysia’ labels. The front label can be peeled back to reveal a unique QR code for quick product authentication while the label at the back features information in English and Bahasa Malaysia. The QR code also enables easy registration for the Shell Advantage Rewards (SHARE) programme that rewards customers with goodies that include a sign-up bonus, Shell Helix Engine Warranty (SHEW) and free Shell Helix products (terms and conditions apply).