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Launched in Malaysia – the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder

Four years into its product cycle, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder share a technical base for the first time. This only model line from the sportscar maker that has a mid-engine layout and comes with a naturally aspirated flat-six engine as well as a 6-speed manual transmission that enthusiasts love. The prices of the new 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder start from RM999,000 and RM970,000, respectively.

Featuring a completely redesigned 4-litre 6-cylinder boxer engine based on the same turbocharged engine family in the 911 Carrera series, these new members of the 718 family have a significant increase in power compared to its predecessors – 35 bhp and 45 bhp more for the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder, respectively. With a maximum torque of 420 Nm between 5000 and 6800 rpm, the cars can accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds from a standing still, with top speeds that beyond 300 km/h, it is claimed.

New additions include as adaptive cylinder control. In part-load operation, it temporarily interrupts the injection process in one of the two cylinder banks, thus reducing fuel consumption. For the first time ever in a high-revving engine, piezo injectors are used for direct fuel injection. Each injection process is split into 5 individual injections to support a complete combustion process, making it emissions-friendly. A variable intake system with two resonance valves ensures optimum gas exchange in the cylinders.

The 718 Cayman GT4
The bodywork has been ‘tuned’ to produce up to 50% more downforce. Sometimes more downforce can create additional drag, but this is said to not be the case with the Cayman GT4. The comprehensively improved aerodynamics concept benefits enormously from the newly designed single-chamber arch rear silencer. This creates space in the rear section for a functional diffuser, which accounts for a good 30% of the downforce at the rear axle.

The front section, which is optimised in the GT style, maintains the aerodynamic balance with a large front spoiler lip and so-called air curtains. The fixed rear wing also generates about 20% more downforce compared with its predecessor. This corresponds to an additional downforce of 12 kgs – for a total of around 70 kgs – at 200 km/h.

The 718 Spyder
The new 718 Spyder is offer topless motoring but without the disadvantages that not having a roof causes. In fact, with the latest aerodynamic tuning, the 718 Spyder slips through the air more efficiently as well as generating more downforce. At the front, the new honeycomb air intake grilles have been designed to increase airflow by reducing obstructions.

The distinctive front spoiler lip with recessed ‘Spyder’ lettering and the central air intake in the front end directs the air upwards through the air outlet opening in front of the front lid to assist in reducing lift at the front axle.

This is further complemented by the golf-ball like profiled surface below the front end to maintain a constantly low drag coefficient. Unlike the GT4, the 718 Spyder possesses a distinctive rear spoiler that automatically extends at speeds over 120 km/h, which helps to reduce lift for more driving stability. Thanks to the functional diffuser, it is the first model in the Boxster family to generate aerodynamic downforce at the rear axle.

High-performance GT chassis
For the first time ever, the 718 Spyder rides on the same GT chassis as the 718 Cayman GT4. An ideal foundation for maximum performance, its further refined lightweight spring-strut front and rear axles make use of racing technologies.

The direct connection to the chassis is partially by means of ball joints ensuring a firm connection of the chassis to the body, resulting in precise, sharper and direct driving behaviour. The height, camber, toe angle and the anti-roll bars of the chassis for the Cayman GT4 can be adjusted to the demands of each individual racetrack.

The Porsche Active Suspension Management damping system with sports set-up and 30 mm suspension as standard, brings the centre of gravity of these models significantly closer to the ground and improves lateral dynamics.

The Porsche Stability Management system now operates with even greater sensitivity and precision. A skilled driver can optionally deactivate it for sportier handling. Also present is Porsche Torque Vectoring with a mechanical rear differential lock that enhances the longitudinal and lateral dynamics, enabling a driver to take corners more confidently.

The latest 718 Spyder runs on ultra-high-performance tyres specially adapted by Porsche. These road-approved sports tyres are complemented by a high-performance brake system that is suitable for track driving. The large aluminium monobloc fixed-caliper brakes are internally ventilated and perforated for optimum cooling. For those who want the ultimate in stopping (or deceleration) performance, there is the optionally-available Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake system.

And finally, the new sports exhaust system with two separated black tailpipes. This has even more powerful sportscar sound which is available with the press of a button.

Performance-oriented interior design
The sportiness of the exterior is mirrored in the cabin with the familiar Porsche cues visible all around. The instrument cluster has an analogue tachometer in the centre, emphasising the racing heritage of Porsches. Decorative trims in brushed aluminium and decorative stitching provide visual contrasts whilst the puristic door-pull loops are a classic touch.

Optional packages available
The 718 Cayman GT4 can be equipped with the optional Clubsport package. With its components derived from professional motorsport, the Clubsport package provides additional protection on the racetrack. This includes a rear steel roll bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and a 6-point seatbelt on the driver’s side.

The optional Spyder Classic interior package lends an extravagant look to the interior while also being reminiscent of historic racing cars. The two-tone leather interior in Bordeaux Red/Black gives an especially unique and high quality look and feel to the entire interior of the 718 Spyder.

Click here for other news and articles on Porsche

Visit www.porsche.com.my for more information on the latest Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder as well as other models available in Malaysia

ASEAN NCAP testing to include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems

The New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) assessment protocol for 2021-2025, introduced in Indonesia last year, has four pillars of assessment. These are Adult Occupant Protection (AOP), Child Occupant Protection (COP), Safety Assist (SA) and Motorcyclist Safety (MS).

Under the SA domain, ASEAN NCAP will be assessing the effectiveness of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems installed in vehicles. This new development mirrors the progression in assessment procedures and aspects that older organizations such as Euro NCAP.

What is AEB?
AEB is a braking system that is applied automatically by the vehicle in response to the detection of a likely collision in order to reduce the vehicle speed and potentially avoid such collision, or reduce the effects of the impact. Detection is by camera and radar and over the years, the ability to recognise different forms has improved, increasing its effectiveness.

Volvo S80 AEB 2007 Volvo S60 2011 — *The S80 was the first Volvo model to have AEB in 2007 and it was demonstrated using this procedure (above). In 2011, the S60 was the first model sold in Malaysia with AEB (below).*

Available in Malaysia since 2011
The system began appearing in models from Mercedes-Benz, Toyota and Volvo in the early 2000s and thereafter began to spread throughout the industry. Initially, due to the cost of AEB, it was offered on high-end models but eventually, as costs came down, lower-priced models like the Ford Focus began to have it. Today, even cars like the Perodua Myvi have AEB. The first car with AEB in Malaysia was the Volvo S60 launched in 2011.

ASEAN NCAP will be assessing two types of AEB systems under the upcoming protocol – AEB City and AEB Inter-Urban. With the new protocol set to commence this coming January 2021, ASEAN NCAP is preparing to strengthen its capacity and capability in the area of testing the effectiveness of AEB systems. This is a significant milestone in ASEAN NCAP assessment as currently (under the 2017-2020 protocol), the assessed vehicle only receives points based on the availability of the system inside the vehicle.

How AEB works: Cameras and radar scan the road ahead and if a vehicle is detected, the system will warn the driver. If the driver does not act in time by braking or slowing down, the brakes will be activated automatically.

The assessments will cover the following:

Effectiveness of AEB City system in a car-to-car rear stationary scenario by driving the vehicle forward at a speed of 10 – 60 km/h towards another stationary vehicle.
Effectiveness of AEB Inter-Urban system in a car-to-car rear moving scenario by driving the vehicle forward at a speed of 30 – 60 km/h towards another vehicle that is travelling at constant speed.

Development testing
Recently, the organization conducted AEB development testing over two days at Bandar Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur where there is a discussed runway as it was formerly an airbase for the TUDM. This follows the first development test held in 2018 in which ASEAN NCAP tested the effectiveness of blind spot technology fitted in vehicles in order to detect the presence of motorcyclists riding at the blind spot zone of a moving vehicle.

AEB — *Cameras at the top of the windscreen scan the road ahead to detect other vehicles.*

“I am proud that ASEAN NCAP with the support from MIROS has successfully organized this development test in our effort to enhance our capacity and capability in AEB testing. This is part of our preparation to conduct such assessment for the new 2021-2025 protocol,” said Adjunct Prof. Ir. Dr. Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim, the new Director-General of MIROS (Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research). He is also Secretary-General and Acting Chairman of ASEAN NCAP.

“As other technologies such as AEB becomes more mature, it is timely that we perform the actual physical assessment of the system and elevate our current assessment from just rewarding points on its availability in the vehicle,” he added.

“As the new MIROS D-G, I would like to thank the manufacturers who are involved in providing their vehicles for this development test. We are grateful for their support and willingness to participate in this test to ensure that the systems equipped in their vehicles are at the best performance. Their commitment in safety is commendable and we hope other manufacturers will follow suit in the near future. With the requirement on the effectiveness of AEB fitment under the new ASEAN NCAP protocol, we are making safety a priority, not a luxury,” Adjunct Prof. Ir. Dr. Khairil Anwar stressed.

TONIGHT: Digital Premiere Of the most powerful members of the Porsche 718 family

Tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm, Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) will be premiering the most powerful members of the Porsche 718 family. The presentation of the powerful mid-engine performance GT models will be via a digital premiere on the Porsche dealer website platforms.

About the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder
For the first time, these two particularly emotional and powerful top models that claim the top spot in the 718 model series share the same technical base. While both these models possess fundamentally different concepts and characteristics, they both offer performance and driving experiences that only a thoroughbred mid-engine sportscar can offer.

Set your reminders for 8 pm and watch the online broadcast at the following Porsche dealer websites listed below:

Porsche Centre Sungai Besi – http://bit.ly/PCSB_718Spyder_GT4
Porsche Centre Penang – http://bit.ly/PCP_718Spyder_GT4
Porsche Centre Ara Damansara – http://bit.ly/PCAD_718Spyder_GT4
(The links will only be active from 8 pm)

Visit www.porsche.com.my to know more about the Porsche range available in Malaysia.

Reduced Prices for Porsche range in Malaysia

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition returns, priced from RM285,899.47

MINI Malaysia celebrates the original 2007 Sidewalk Edition of the first generation of the MINI Convertible with a 2020 version, with only 20 units available for the Malaysian market. With sales tax exemption, the price of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition is RM285,899.47 (excluding insurance premium).

Painted in the youthful Deep Laguna metallic colour, the exclusive version provides a fresh interpretation of rgw MINI’s charm and style with a nod to its rich heritage. Individual side scuttles in the design further enhance the variant’s extroverted appearance as well.

Topless in 18 seconds
The MINI Yours Soft-top offers protection against rain and sun when in closed position. At the touch of a button, it opens electrically within 18 seconds even with the car moving at up to 30 km/h. The black soft-top roof features an interwoven ‘Sidewalk’ pattern in Titanium Grey.

The sporty bonnet stripes, embellished with a geometric pattern, put an individual spin while the 17-inch light-alloy Scissor Spoke 2-tone wheels are also a specific design feature of this exclusive edition.

Brisk performance, frugal consumption
The powerful 2-litre 4-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo engine, paired with a 7-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, produces up to 192 bhp/280 Nm to allow the driver to fully enjoy the kart-like dynamics which the Mini is famous for. The 0 to 100 km/h time is claimed to be 7.1 seconds while the maximum speed is 230 km/h. And in spite of this brisk performance character, fuel consumption is as good as 17.5 kms/litre.

Sung cabin for four
Inside, the snug cabin has exclusive MINI Yours Leather Lounge Sidewalk seats in anthracite, combined with contrasting seams in Petrol and Energetic Yellow. The Petrol paint effect also embellishes the door trims, with doormats in matching dark Petrol surrounds contrasted by Energetic Yellow seams.

The sports steering wheel bearing the Sidewalk logo and contract seams in Petrol further accentuate the sportiness of the New MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition, along with the stylishly decorative cockpit trim in Petrol finish.

Feature-rich environment
Standard features include LED headlamps, LED front and rear foglamps, an interior lighting package with 12-colour ambient lighting, as well as the MINI Driving Modes, automatic air conditioning, a height-adjustable front passenger seat, wireless charger and a storage compartment package.

To add to its exclusivity, there is the range-topping Wired Package that consists of the 8.8-inch MINI Visual Boost with Navigation System. This can be operated via the intuitive touchscreen, the MINI controller or even via Voice Control.

Additionally, with Apple CarPlay, owners can connect their iPhone to the infotainment system and use the MINI Visual Boost to access apps on the phone. Music selections from the phone can be heard through the Harman Kardon 12-speaker sound system tuned to deliver high-quality reproduction even with the top down.

Connected with 4G SIM technology
With MINI Connected, there’s built-in 4G SIM technology, allowing Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic detection of the car’s location and accident severity. This will help rescue teams to locate the car faster in the event of an accident.

MINI Online and MINI TeleServices can also be accessed and the current update of the MINI Connected App offers an exceptionally wide range of digital services such as sending navigation destinations from smartphone to vehicle and receiving information regarding the ideal departure time, as well as Remote Services.

As with all cars purchased from authorised MINI dealerships in Malaysia, the MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition is covered by a 5-year Roadside Assistance programme. This has a comprehensive list of services that include a 24-hour/365 days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, free towing services when needed (over 200 kms from residential home), replacement vehicle, seamless mobility, accommodation, mobility services solutions as well as repatriation services.

Purchasers can choose Balloon Financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. Based on a 5-year tenure with 80% financing, ownership of the MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition starts from RM 3,266.00 per month (terms and conditions apply).

Bookings for the limited number of units can be made at selected authorised MINI dealerships as well as the MINI Online Shop from today.

Visit MINI.MY to know more about other models available in Malaysia.

Auto Bavaria takes over BMW/Mini dealership in Tebrau, Johor; to start operations on July 15

2021 Ariya crossover SUV takes Nissan further along the EV road

Nissan may be buffeted by financial problems at this time but new products still need to get into the market and even though the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed things down, the carmaker is continuing on the road forward.

That road is one which requires electric vehicles (EVs) and Nissan is ready with the all-new Ariya, a crossover SUV which, like the successful LEAF, is powered only by electricity. Introduced online to a global audience today from the new Nissan Pavilion in Yokohama, Japan, the Ariya will be priced at around 5 million yen (about RM200,000). It is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in mid-2021, with exports starting by the end of next year to Europe, North America and China.

“The Nissan Ariya is a truly beautiful and remarkable car,” said Nissan’s Chief Operating Officer, Ashwani Gupta. “It enables you to go further, easier and in comfort. The Ariya is designed to impress, and to express what Nissan strives for – making our customers’ lives better.”

New electrified brand identity
The Ariya is heavily based on the similarly-named concept vehicle displayed at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show although the first design ideas started with the IMx at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. The first production model to represent Nissan’s new electrified brand identity, it utilizes an all-new Alliance-developed EV platform.

The styling adopts the company’s new design philosophy which is based on what Nissan calls ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’ – a distinctive Japanese approach conveyed in a simple-yet-powerfully modern way. Embracing the Japanese term ‘iki’, which characterizes the Ariya’s chic, cutting-edge nature, the front of the vehicle appears seamless, elegant and fresh.

It’s highlighted by a shield – a new term for the traditional grille for the EV era. The shield, incorporating a 3-D, traditional Japanese kumiko pattern just under the smooth surface, protects sensing equipment used for ProPILOT functions and Intelligent Key detection without the aesthetics interrupting operation.

Redesigned brand logo
Nissan’s brand logo, which has been redesigned, is prominently placed at the centre of this aerodynamic shield, beaming with crisp definition from the 20 LEDs that compose it. The lower section of the shield is bordered by subtle lighting that illuminates, along with the logo, when the Ariya is ready for operation. Thin LED headlamps, constructed with four 20-mm mini-projectors, are combined with sequential turn signals to reinvent Nissan’s signature V-motion design.

When viewed from the side, the Ariya has a single, uninterrupted horizon line that stretches across the side profile, linking the front fascia and the rear, conveys linear movement, creating architectural beauty in tension and drama from every angle.

The rear of the Ariya characterized by a steeply raked C-pillar that blends into the rear deck. The one-piece light blade, representing the rear combination lamps, has been engineered to give a black-out effect when parked, and a consistent red illumination, day or night, when in use. Rear fender flares and a high-mounted rear wing signal the Ariya’s powerful EV capabilities.

2WD and AWD, with two battery pack sizes
Building on Nissan’s strength as an EV pioneer, the Ariya is said to ‘take the powerful performance and capabilities of zero-emission vehicles to a new level’. Four core models are offered with choices of 2-wheel-drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Using peak 130 kW charging, the Ariya can recover up to 375 kms with a 30-minute quick charge using Japan’s CHAdeMO charging system.

The Ariya 2WD can be ordered with 63 kWh of usable battery capacity which is suitable for urban commuters, or a larger battery pack with 87 kWh which can provide additional range. The Ariya with the smaller battery pack has an output of 168 kW while the bigger one has 178 kW, with torque from standstill at 300 Nm for both versions. Factory testing has achieved up to 610 kms on a fully charged battery pack.

Like the 2WD variant, the Ariya AWD also has two choices of battery pack capacities – 63 kWh and 87 kWh. Output is 250 kW/560 Nm for the 63-kWh version and 290 kW/600 M, for the bigger battery pack. The latter has a top speed claim of 200 km/h.

With e-4ORCE AWD control technology and twin electric motors, Nissan claims it can deliver balanced, predictable power to all four wheels, equal to or better than many premium sportscars.

Vehicle pitch and dive are minimized by adding regenerative rear-motor braking to the usual front-motor regenerative braking employed by typical EV and hybrid systems today. In addition to optimizing front and rear torque allocation, the system applies independent brake control at each of the four wheels to maximize the cornering force generated by each one. This delivers cornering that faithfully follows driver intentions with minimal steering adjustments.

“By taking advantage of e-4ORCE’s precise motor control response, we’re able to control vehicle motion as soon as the brakes are applied for a stable, smooth ride,” said Ryozo Hiraku, expert leader of Nissan’s powertrain and EV engineering division.

Most technologically advanced Nissan car
The Ariya is also the most technologically advanced Nissan car to date, especially with its ProPILOT 2.0 advanced driver assistance system and ProPILOT Remote Park and e-Pedal features.

The e-Pedal, first introduced in the LEAF, allows the driver to launch, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal. It works by initiating the electric motor to start the deceleration process of the vehicle when easing off the accelerator pedal. On low-traction surfaces, the brakes are applied simultaneously with the motor, allowing all four wheels to safely slow down the vehicle. On models equipped with e-4ORCE, regenerative torque is distributed not only to the front wheels, but also the rear.

Also standard across the Ariya line-up is Nissan’s Safety Shield system. This includes Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking technology.

‘Like a cafe lounge on a starship’
The interior is described as being more akin to a sleek cafe lounge on a starship, evoking performance and intrigue, than to a traditional automotive cabin. The advantages provided by the new EV platform enabled the interior designers to create the most spacious cabin in its class.

This is also helped by the compact nature of the powertrain components which made it possible for the engineers to install the climate control system under the bonnet (where a traditional gasoline engine would be). This meant that the whole length of the cabin could be utilized without obstructions, such as a transmission tunnel or cabin systems tucked under the instrument panel.

Also, a flat, open floor – made possible by the location of the battery at the base of the chassis – and the Ariya’s slim profile Zero Gravity seats result in vast amounts of legroom and easy interaction between front and rear passengers.

The Ariya’s minimalist dashboard has no buttons and switches, something which is unique. The primary climate control functions are integrated into the wooden centre dash in the form of capacitive haptic switches that offer the same feeling as mechanical switches by vibrating when touched.

The display interface features both a 12.3-inch instrument monitor and 12.3-inch centre display along a single horizon. By displaying multiple facets of information on one horizontal plane, information can be quickly digested without the driver being distracted from the road. The two displays are oriented in a wave-like shape to ensure important vehicle information, such as battery information, range and navigation, can be easily reached and scrolled through with a simple swipe.

Related story: Why Nissan designers avoided the tablet in yhe Ariya Concept

The Ariya is the first Nissan model which can received firmware updates over the air using Remote Software Upgrade. The technology automatically updates various software inside the vehicle, making it unnecessary for the owner to take the car to a service centre. With periodic real-time updates, the Ariya will always be able to operate at its full potential.

DIMENSIONS OF THE ARIYA
Overall length – 4595 mm
Overall width – 1850 mm
Overall height – 1655 mm
Wheelbase – 2775 mm
Kerb weight – 1,900 kgs to 2,200 kgs

The Ariya will only go on sale in 2021 and only in Japan and certain regions, and Malaysia is not included. However, you can own a fully electric EV now as the Nissan LEAF is available in Malaysia. Visit www.nissan.com.my to find out where you can get the EV experience.

Nissan IMk concept EV – the perfect city car of the future? (w/VIDEO)

Power boost for latest Toyota GR Supra

As the first global model to be developed by Toyota GAZOO Racing, the Toyota GR Supra has made an impact wherever it has been launched, including Malaysia. Besides drawing on Toyota’s sportscar heritage, the fifth generation in the legendary nameplate also has advanced powertrain, chassis and safety technologies.

In the spirit of Kaizen (Japanese for ‘constant improvement’), the latest GR Supra has received upgrades which further extend its capabilities. Specifically, the 3-litre engine has additional output which should deliver better performance numbers.

The upgrades centre around the turbocharged inline-six engine which now delivers 388 ps of power at between 5800 and 6500 rpm, an increase of 14% compared to the output when the model was originally launched.

Maximum torque remains at 500 Nm, but peaks through a slightly wider range of 1800 rpm – 5000 rpm instead of 1600 rpm to 4500 rpm.

The engineers increased the power output not just by tuning but also added a new dual-branch exhaust manifold with 6 ports (instead of two), which improves heat management. A new piston design also reduces the engine’s compression ratio from 11:1 to 10.2:1.

The improved engine with the torque band raised retains the eagerness to rev to the redline. With the standard 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is said to be 2/10ths of a second quicker, or a claimed 4.1 seconds from 4.3 seconds.

Complementing the extra power are some chassis improvements aimed at increasing roll resistance and enhanced cornering stability. Taking note of feedback from owner in the time that the car has been in the market, the latest GR Supra has received chassis retuning with a new Performance Rod added to increase lateral rigidity.

Apart from the fitment of red-coloured brake calipers with the Supra logo at the front, other technical specifications and features remain the same. Standard with the GR Supra are the Adaptive Variable Suspension and Electronically-Controlled Limited-Slip Differential.

There are seven colour choices customers can select from, but the Deep Blue Metallic exterior finish is no longer available. The available colours are Prominence Red, Lightning Yellow, White Metallic, Silver Metallic, Ice Grey Metallic, Black Metallic and Matte Storm Grey Metallic.

To enable its drivers to take the car to its limits safely, advanced technologies are used. These technologies include a variety of active systems which work together to assist the driver when necessary. Additionally, there are features like a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Intelligent Parking Sensor with Emergency Braking Function and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The standard interior features of the GR Supra include a head-Up Display, memory function for the power seat and JBL audio system with 12 speakers situated around the cabin.

Priced from RM589,987 (with sales tax exemption and without insurance) and RM611,880 (without sales tax exemption and without insurance), the new GR Supra is now available for booking from selected authorised Toyota GR Garage showrooms nationwide.

Visit toyota.com.my for more information or to locate a GR Garage showroom in Malaysia.

GR Heritage Parts project to reproduce Toyota Supra parts for sale

Another new Honda 3S Centre added to network in central region

The Klang Valley has a high concentration of vehicles, many of which are Hondas and over the years, Honda Malaysia has been expanding its dealer network to minimise distances owners and customers have to go to find an authorised dealership to buy a Honda or to have their vehicle serviced.

Recently, the network gained another 3S outlet in Shah Alam, Selangor, which is the 28th Honda 3S Centre in the company’s Central region. The new outlet, operated by Elmina Motors, is strategically located with easy access via Guthrie Corridor Expressway (GCE), New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), North-South Expressway (NSE) and the upcoming Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH).

Elmina Motors invested RM21.8 million in the new Honda 3S Centre which sits on an 85,377 sq. foot property. As a 3S centre, it offers complete sales and after-sales services to customers. Its service centre has 20 bays with specialised areas for jobs involving tyres and air-conditioning and electrical systems.

The facility meets Honda standards in all aspects and customers can also enjoy a variety of amenities such as comfortable lounges and complimentary wifi services. There is also free flow of food and beverages in the pantry area and a Kid’s Corner but these two areas are temporarily closed in view of the current RMCO (Recovery Movement Control Order) situation. All Honda dealerships adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures.

A surau is also available, along with car wash services and roadtax/insurance coverage renewal services.

“In view of the government’s strategies in resuming businesses, we believe the new Honda 3S Centre will contribute to Honda Malaysia’s effort to support the nation’s economy. The timing is opportune as it also provides another conveniently-located Honda showroom for customers to visit and test drive any Honda model, especially the three exciting models that we launched this year – the All-New Accord, New Civic and New BR-V. This is even more impeccable with the price reductions for Honda models after the announcement of the sales tax exemption by the government of Malaysia,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director and CEO, Toichi Ishiyama.

Mr. Ishiyama believes the opening of the new Honda 3S Centre can support the increase in after-sales service intakes in the Selangor area. In 2019, the company recorded more than 647,100 service intakes in the Central region, a 5.4% increase from the service intakes in 2018.

“With such encouraging growth, Honda Malaysia is continuously working hard to improve in order to provide excellent after-sales services to further elevate customer satisfaction,” he said.

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

Ford brings back the Bronco, the original small SUV

Five years before the Suzuki Jimny and long before the Suzuki Vitara, Ford was already selling a small SUV. It was called the Bronco and appeared in the market in 1965, a time when Ford was still creating excitement with the Mustang that had been launched a year earlier. Although Americans love their vehicles big, the small (for that market) Bronco found a niche for itself and went through 5 generations until 1996 when production of the model ceased,

Today, with strong demand for smaller SUVs, Ford is getting in on the action with a new Bronco. Of course, it is a totally different vehicle from the original and where the Bronco name only referred to the model, Ford is now using it as a brand name for a family of SUVs.

“We created the Bronco family to elevate every aspect of off-road adventure and equipped them with class-leading chassis hardware and exclusive technologies to raise the bar in the rugged 4×4 segment and take people further into the wild,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer. “They’re built with the toughness of an F-Series truck and performance spirit of Mustang – and come wrapped in one of the most stunning and functional off-road designs that’s true to the original Bronco design DNA.”

To go on sale in early 2021, the Bronco family comes in two sizes with 2-door and 4-door variants – a larger one and a smaller compact model that differentiated with ‘Sport’ added as a suffix. But both models have all the necessary systems and engineering to give them extensive off-road capability that justifies using the G.O.A.T. – for ‘Goes Over Any Terrain’ – nickname which the original Bronco had.

However, where the earlier generations used mostly mechanical systems, the latest one has many electrical, computer-managed systems that make driving on rough terrain easier and safer. The Terrain Management System with ‘G.O.A.T. Modes’ (probably something Ford engineers learnt when Land Rover was in the Ford group) has 7 driver-selectable modes to customise traction and engine systems for optimum performance over different surface conditions, to boost acceleration or even to economise on fuel. In Rock Crawl mode, the electronic power steering system is calibrated to provide more precise control and help reduce steering wheel disturbance during low-speed manoeuvres over rocky terrain.

“Bronco has the toughness and smarts to help turn off-road novices into 4×4 pros,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Chief Product Development & Purchasing Officer. “Bronco embraces the needs of outdoor enthusiasts – every inch of it was designed and engineered with weekend adventurers in mind.”

2021 Ford Bronco — *Tough steel chassis for the roughest off-road driving*

The 4×4 systems are available in standard set-up and advanced. The standard system utilizes a 2-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case, while the optional advanced system features a 2-speed electromechanical transfer case that adds an auto mode for on-demand engagement to select between 2H and 4H. Electronic locking differentials for improved traction over rough terrain are available if customers want them.

Other driver assistance technologies include a Trail Toolbox which ‘elevates’ the off-road experience for Bronco. Trail Control provides cruise control for low-speed trail driving (up to 33 km/h forward and about 10 km/h in reverse). Trail Turn Assist tightens off-road turning radiuses through torque vectoring. The innovative Trail One-Pedal Drive acceleration/braking control makes for more precise and confident slow-mode rock crawling.

EcoBoost powertrains
Two EcoBoost engines are available with displacements of 2.3 litres and 2.7 litres. The smaller 4-cylinder engine has outputs of 270 bhp/420 Nm while the larger twin-turbo V6 generates 310 bhp/ 542 Nm. There’s a choice of a Getrag 7-speed (6 + 1 ‘crawler gear’) manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. A hybrid powertrain is in the product plan as well.

*One of the EcoBoost engines available.*

For the Bronco Sport, there’s a 2.0-litre EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that produces 245 bhp/ 373 Nm and also a 1.5-litre EcoBoost unit with 181 bhp/258 Nm. Perhaps these two powertrains will be offered in export markets but at this time, Ford has not mentioned selling the Bronco outside North America and it’s uncertain if there will even be a righthand drive variant. They’ve lost interest in the Southeast Asian markets where there could be a potentially big volume, letting only the Ranger soldier on for the brand.

Every Bronco comes with an independent front suspension and at the rear, a rugged solid axle design featuring coil springs with 5 locating links. Long-travel position-sensitive Bilstein dampers with end-stop control valves at every corner are optionally available for added off-road durability and reduced harshness.

Also available is a semi-active hydraulic stabilizer bar disconnect design which provides maximum articulation and increased ramp angle index for off-camber terrain. This innovative system works by disconnecting during articulation; it can reconnect automatically under all conditions to improve steering and stability at higher speeds.

Ford claims segment-leading levels of off-road capability for the Bronco with 300 mm of ground clearance and water-crossing capability up to a depth of 850 mm. There’s a choice of tyre types and sizes up to 35 inches too.

The first design ideas for the modern Bronco started 16 years ago with the Bronco concept displayed at the 2004 North American International Auto Show. It drew inspiration from the original Bronco style with a slab-side chunky look that traditional SUVs had. In fact, Ford’s designers did a life-size digital scan of a first-generation model to understand its DNA. Incidentally, if you saw the movie Rampage in 2018, you would have seen that concept SUV being driven by Dwayne Johnson.

Ford Bronco Concept 2014 — *Ford Bronco Concept displayed in 2004.*

The production Bronco adopts much of the concept model’s design with modernised retro looks that include classic round headlights on either side of an encapsulated cartridge grille. The 2-door variants come with a standard 3-section roof system incorporating a modular top with four sections that adds a removable panel over the rear seats and cargo area. The 4-door versions have 4 removable roof sections.

A cloth soft top provides easy access to the open air and a unique tilt-up function for quick access to the rear cargo area. To further enable the ‘wide open’ feeling, every Bronco comes with frameless doors that are easily removed. On 4-door Broncos, all the doors can be stored onboard with protective door bags.

2021 Ford Bronco and 1965 Ford Bronco — *The modern Bronco and the original which was introduced in 1965*

“Similar to the first-generation model, Bronco’s square proportions, short overhangs and wide stance are optimized for off-road adventure,” said Paul Wraith, the SUV’s Chief Designer. “The side profile features a flat, no-nonsense surface with clear-cut edges and robustly flared fenders. Large, open wheel wells are a modular design with a quick-release attachment for simple customization.”

Purpose-built cabin
The multicolour LCD instrument panel is clearly inspired by the first-generation Bronco while the colours and materials are inspired by natural palettes and outdoor gear. With off-road functionality paramount, materials are tough and rugged. There are washable rubberized floors with integrated drains and marine-grade vinyl seating surfaces that resist mildew. Instrument panel surfaces are wipeable, with seamless silicone rubber on the dash-mounted hero switches, while rubber touchpoints protect against dirt and water.

Attachment points are built into the instrument panel to mount a device rack, with 12V power connections to easily mount cameras, navigation units, phones or other devices that today’s adventurers will carry.

For navigation, especially off-road, Bronco drivers can plan, navigate and share their adventures on the SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch display. The system has advanced topographic trail maps and more than 1,000 curated trail maps of the USA. The SYNC system also displays images from the 360-degree camera system to provide additional visibility in tricky exercises such as rock crawling.

A modern high-strength steel roll cage with integrated side curtain airbags in the upper structure and seats helps protect passengers from side impacts and complements driver and front passenger airbags. Needless to say, there’s a full range of active and passive safety systems around the vehicle.

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

Visit www.sdacford.com.my to find out about Ford 4×4 models in Malaysia.

Perodua brings smiles to Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital

While a large proportion of Perodua’s sales are in Peninsular Malaysia, the carmaker does not also forget that the East Malaysia markets have also contribute to its ascent to being the No. 1 brand in the country. And like a good corporate citizen, the company has been giving back to the local community there.

Recently, the Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital received a portable flexible videoscope set, while 250 underprivileged paediatric patients received contributions ranging from school supplies to prescription glasses, courtesy of Perodua.

Of the 250 child patients, 200 patients aged below 12 received stationery while the remaining 50 outpatient kids were given prescription glasses. “While Malaysia is showing positive signs in the fight against COVID-19, we now include other priorities to ensure the quality of life improves in this country,” said Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

“In addition to that, our contributions here are our way of thanking the good staff of Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital for tirelessly and selflessly caring for the patients,” he added.

Perodua first engaged with the Sabah Women and Children’s Hospital in 2018, contributing two laryngoscope blade sets and 40 bed pillows, and toys for some 250 child patients. “Based on feedback from the hospital, we have decided to further assist this health institution to further increase its capabilities as well as contribute directly to the community.

“It is important that Perodua continues its role as a responsible and caring organisation towards the Malaysian community who has strongly supported us over the years,” he added.

Last month, ahead of the reopening of schools, the carmaker distributed over 5,000 face shields to 17 secondary schools in the Hulu Selangor district which its vehicle manufacturing complex is situated in.

Perodua revisits Selayang Hospital to contribute more and do more.

Technology from road car to racing car

Very often, you would read about how technology developed for racing cars eventually gets transferred to production models sold to the public. The new technology has been proven in the extreme conditions of racing and before it is used in production models, it is refined and most importantly, tested thoroughly for durability and reliability.

But here’s an example of the reverse taking place – from production model to racing car. Engineers at Panasonic Jaguar Racing have taken a technology used in the Jaguar I-PACE all-electric SUV for their racing cars in the single-seater all-electric championship series.

Traffic Sign Recognition system
The technology is from the Traffic Sign Recognition system (TSR) but the principles are adapted for a very different purpose: to monitor the battery status of the I-TYPE and competitors’ racing cars – automatically and in real time. This data can then be used to determine the optimum energy strategies for the drivers.

TSR uses an advanced stereo camera and image processing software to detect and read road signs, informing drivers of speed limits, temporary speed limits, and no-overtaking restrictions. This information is also used by the Adaptive Speed Limiter system, helping drivers stay within the permissible speed by automatically slowing the vehicle down, if necessary, when entering areas with a lower limit.

Learnings from the system help the engineers understand when to push and when they can afford to ease off – optimising energy management throughout a race. Adopting digital vision systems with image recognition as the enabler for the new energy strategy modelling process delivered a step-change in speed, accuracy and flexibility compared to the tools used previously, and is future-proofed to make even more detailed analyses possible in seasons to come.

Racing to improve vehicles
The technology transfer is one example of advances in Jaguar’s road cars being used to support success on the track. This advantage is complemented by the on-going application of knowledge gained from the extremes of racing to improve vehicles such as the all-electric I-PACE.

One of the most significant benefits to date – underpinned by invaluable learning gained from the I-PACE eTROPHY race series and Formula E – was a software update to the I- which gave customers worldwide up to 20 kms more real-world range from a full charge. This was delivered though further optimisation of battery management, thermal systems, regenerative braking and all-wheel drive torque distribution.

The on-going collaborative partnership between engineers in Jaguar Racing and those working on core Jaguar vehicle programmes ensures that knowledge, processes and technologies continue to pass from road to track and also vice-versa.

Jaguar unveils first virtual all-electric sportscar for Gran Turismo Sport

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Launched in Malaysia – the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder

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TONIGHT: Digital Premiere Of the most powerful members of the Porsche 718 family

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition returns, priced from RM285,899.47

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Ford brings back the Bronco, the original small SUV

Technology from road car to racing car

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