The new Porsche Macan now comes with an efficient 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with improved combustion chamber geometry. It delivers a performance of 185 kW (252 hp) and has a maximum torque of 370 Nm. In combination with its seven-gear PDK dual-clutch gearbox, the compact SUV can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 225 km/h. Its consumption rate is 8.1 l/100 km according to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). With the model having received a full makeover, the most prominent new features in terms of design, comfort, connectivity and driving dynamics include the three-dimensional LED light panel at the rear and the new fully interconnected Porschecommunication management system with 10.9-inch touchscreen inside the vehicle. Check out the video!
Newly tuned chassis for enhanced balance
The vehicle dynamics of the Macan remain its core feature. The overhauled chassis increases comfort and makes the Macan even more enjoyable to drive. As is typical for a sports car, it comes with mixed-size tyres, enabling the driver to take full advantage of the benefits of the intelligent all-wheel drive Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system and adopt a dynamic driving style. Newly developed tyres with improved performance characteristics allow for even better lateral dynamics. The wheel diameters range from 18 inches as standard to an optional 21 inches.
A more streamlined design with full LED lights and new colours
In keeping with Porsche’s design DNA, the new Macan features a three-dimensional LED light panel on the rear of the vehicle. The brake lights with their four-point design are another excellent embodiment of the brand’s identity. LED technology is incorporated as standard into the newly designed main headlights, while the PorscheDynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) option can be used to control light distribution adaptively. The Macan’s front end has been thoroughly redesigned and now appears wider. Drivers now have more scope to express their personality thanks to the addition of four new exterior colours – Mamba Green Metallic, Dolomite Silver Metallic, Miami Blue and Crayon.
Fully interconnected: the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system
The Macan offers a range of digital possibilities through the use of the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system. The full-HD touchscreen is now 10.9 inches in width (previously 7.2 inches). As in the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface can be adapted to suit personal requirements via predefined tiles. Fully interconnected as standard, the new system features mobile phone preparation, two audio interfaces and intelligent voice control.
New options: GT sports steering wheel, air ioniser and traffic assistant
An expanded range of options with enhanced assist systems is available to choose from with the new Macan. The optional GT sports steering wheel echoes the style of the Porsche 911. A mode switch integrated into the steering wheel – including sport response button – is part of the optional sport chrono package that can be fitted in the Macan. Porsche has extended the list of options designed to enhance convenience, which now includes a heated windshield and an air ioniser that – together with the fine particulate air filter (fitted as standard) – improves the quality of the air inside the vehicle.
Available for enquiry now: the new Macan with more features included as standard
The new Macan is now available for enquiry at Porsche Centre Glenmarie, Sungai Besi, and Penang. The range of standard features has been expanded to include LED main headlights, the new PCM with online navigation and Connect Plus, and an anti-theft alarm system with interior surveillance.
Thanks to our friends in The Philippines at AutoIndustriya.com, have a look at the all-new 2019 Toyota Camry that’s just been launched in Thailand! Available 4 variants including a Hybrid, the entry-level G model is powered by a 2.0-liter engine that churns out 167 PS and 199Nm of torque, while a new 2.5-litre engine in the V variant makes a healthy 209 PS and 250Nm of torque.
Top of the line would be the Hybrid model, and thanks to the addition of electric motors, it has a combined output of 211 PS. “All three engines have different types of transmissions. The 2.0G has a six-speed automatic, while the 2.5-liter gets bumped up to an eight-speed unit. As for the Hybrid, that uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT)” – AutoIndustriya.com.
“Under the design inspiration of ‘Sensual-Smart Confidence’ the all-new Camry has been reborn as ‘Modern Sport Luxury’ car that has never been seen before. We have also enhanced the Camry’s driving dynamic thanks to Toyota New Global Architecture or TNGA, which includes a newly developed platform, a powerful but efficient Dynamic Force Engines. Besides that, the fourth generation Hybrid System has been re-engineered to offer both a fun drive as well as fuel efficiency,” said Michinobu Sugata, president of Toyota Motor Thailand Company, Ltd.
“Seeing that Thailand is our close neighbor, equipment levels are possibly close to the version that will be sold there. All Thai models get power seats, leather, remote keyless entry, rear sun blinds, wireless charging, and a digital multi-information display. Features such as ventilated seats, head-up display, power lumbar support, triple-zone climate control, and a JBL sound system is reserved for the top of the line variant” said AutoIndustriya.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, is offering attractive cash rebates for the upcoming Year End festivities 2018. From now until end of December 2018, customers who book and register a new Mitsubishi
Outlander – the Outlander 2.0-litre and Outlander 2.4-litre will get Year End cash rebates up to RM8, 000. The Mitsubishi Outlander 2.4-litre is currently selling fast and has limited stock. The Outlander 2.0-litre is priced at RM137, 888.00 while the Outlander 2.4-litre is priced at RM152, 888.00. The Mitsubishi Outlander recently won ‘Best Family Ride’ at the CarSifu Editor’s Choice Awards 2018 and ‘Family SUVs of Malaysia’ award at the Cars of Malaysia awards 2018.
Customers who book the MitsubishiTriton pick up truck will enjoy Year End cash rebates up to RM8, 000. Year End promotions for all Triton variants are as follows:
No
Model/Variant
Price (RM)
Year End Cash Rebate (RM)
Warranty
1
Triton Athlete
129,650.00
8,000
All Triton variants except Triton Quest: Five years warranty or 200,000km
Triton Quest: Five years warranty or 100,000km
2
Triton VGT Adventure X
129,270.00
8,000
3
Triton VGT AT Premium
118,560.00
8,000
4
Triton VGT AT GL
105,990.00
8,000
5
Triton VGT MT
109,600.00
8,000
6
Triton MT
95,610.00
5,000
7
Triton Quest
78,890.00
5,000
The Mitsubishi Triton recently received the ‘Pick Up Trucks of Malaysia’ award at the Cars of Malaysia awards 2018. Last but not least, customers who opt for the Mitsubishi ASX 2WD and ASX 4WD Compact SUV will receive Year End cash rebates up to RM8, 000. The Mitsubishi ASX 2WD is priced at RM 118,866.00, while the Mitsubishi ASX 4WD is priced at RM 133,336.08.
In addition, Mitsubishi Motors customers who service their Mitsubishi cars from 1 – 30 November will receive up to 20% discount on selected parts, additives at an attractive price and a free Popsocket Phone Holder with every service.
· Prices stated are OTR price without insurance (10% SST inclusive) for individual private owners only in Peninsular Malaysia and not applicable in duty free zones.
· Year End Promotions is valid until 31 December 2018 only.
A name synonymous with car-rental, Avis Malaysia is offering customers up to 46 percent savings on published rates for car rental bookings from 15 September to 31 October 2018 in celebration of its 46th anniversary. The savings are eligible for the rental period from 15 September to 31 December 2018.
Avis Malaysia is also organising a special ‘46th Anniversary Contest’ in social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter from 19 September to 31 October 2018. Social media fans and customers only need to just like, follow, share, watch a video, and answer simple questions to qualify for the contest.
Free rental of JEEP Cherokee and exciting prices to be won…
Lucky winners will be selected via lucky draw to enjoy a one-night stay at a luxurious hotel in Port Dickson and Penang respectively, along with a complimentary 3-days car rental voucher for a JEEP® Cherokee Trailhawk and many other attractive prizes.
“These activities are carried out to extend our appreciation to all our customers who have supported us all these years and we look forward to many more years ahead of offering quality services on professional mobility solutions in Malaysia”, said Mohammad Shanaz, Chief Operating Officer of Avis Malaysia.
Avis Malaysia began operations as a licensee of Avis Rent A Car in 1972 and has been part of DRB-HICOM Group since 2014. The company provides a wide range of vehicles to cater to business or leisure rental purposes. Avis Malaysia offers quality vehicles from leading manufacturers including Audi, Jeep, Honda, Mitsubishi, PROTON and many more.
More rental stations for customer convenience…
As of September this year, Avis Malaysia has expanded to 13 rental stations throughout the country, including eight (8) located in major airports such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (Klia2), Penang International Airport, Senai International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, Kuching International Airport, Miri Airport, Sultan Ahmad Shah (Kuantan) Airport, as well as five (5) downtown stations located at Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, Sibu, Pengerang and Johor.
Awarded the Best Brand for Rent-A-Car Solutions…
In the month of May 2018, Avis Malaysia was also awarded the prestigious BrandLaureate Best Brands Award for the “Most Favourite Choice” for the category of “Best Brand for Rent-A-Car Solutions 2017-18 in Malaysia”. This award ceremony took place on 3 May 2018 at The Majestic Hotel. Kuala Lumpur. Avis Malaysia is also certified to comply to ISO 9001:2015 standards, assuring consistent quality and attention to maintaining optimum standards of service and performance.
Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad (‘Berjaya Sompo’), a renowned general insurance provider in Malaysia announced its plans recently to become one of the top five general insurance providers in Malaysia. The brand aims to achieve this by developing a detailed growth agenda with key focus areas identified. With a growing network of 20 offices and 2,800 agents nationwide, Berjaya Sompo is committed to being the leading insurer of choice by providing quality solutions and world class services in the best interest of its customers.
(L-R) Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, Mr. Tan Sek Kee, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, Mr. Futoshi Hanahara, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad
Customer Centricity…
Customers are at the heart of Berjaya Sompo and its approach to customer experience is a vital component of enabling the brand to move towards greater heights in Malaysia. Mr. Tan Sek Kee (below), CEO of Berjaya Sompo said, “Customer feedback is key to product innovation and this allows us to incorporate solutions into products that customers value and want. We execute this by listening to customers and gathering data trends through consumer surveys and market research. Ultimately, Berjaya Sompo is working towards improving the overall experience and journey for all customers across different touch points.”
More…
Berjaya Sompo wants to make insurance simple to understand for the average consumer. As such, it has embarked on the following initiatives:
Thematic Brand Campaign: Silent Guardians
Berjaya Sompo’s latest thematic brand campaign, called ‘Silent Guardians’ is a unique take on storytelling about how Berjaya Sompo aims to foster closer relations with all its stakeholders, leveraging on the brand’s Japanese heritage and history, from Japan to the world since 1888.
Berjaya Sompo is raising up its army of heroes through its ‘Silent Guardians’ via the use of Japanese warriors, ninjas, samurais, sumo wrestlers, karatekas, and kendokas – protecting Malaysians everyday, even without realising. The thematic brand campaign incorporates unique humour to highlight the importance of being insured so that Malaysians are able to live their daily routines freely, without a worry.
Berjaya Sompo’s spokespersons with mascot ‘Sompony’, the ’Silent Guardians’ and Peter Davis, (3rd from left) Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, (4th from left) Mr. Tan Sek Kee, Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad, (2nd from right) Mr. Futoshi Hanahara, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Berjaya Sompo Insurance Berhad
Sompony: Berjaya Sompo’s Adorable Mascot
Recently, Berjaya Sompo introduced its latest and adorable mascot, Sompony. The brainchild of Berjaya Sompo’s parent company, Sompo Holdings (Asia) Pte. Ltd. (‘SOMPO’), Sompony is a hero, helper and trustworthy companion that Malaysians can count on to guide them as they navigate through Berjaya Sompo’s products and services.
Used across its markets in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore, Sompony was created to reshape how the brand connects with consumers in a more human, light-hearted and relatable manner. Sompony adds value to SOMPO with successful character building. It helps internal stakeholders and agents in their storytelling efforts as they educate customers and explain about the unique products and services that Sompo offers.
Product Innovation: SOMPO Motor
Understanding the consumer mindset which changes over time, as well as in response to recent developments regarding motor detariffication in Malaysia, Berjaya Sompo evolves accordingly and continuously looks at ways to innovate and develop solutions that meets the needs of today’s consumer. One example of this: the all-new SOMPO Motor.
SOMPO Motor is a comprehensive motor insurance for car owners which reduces the overall add-on costs without going through the tedious task of including add-on benefits. Further, it has add-on benefits that provides a peace of mind to drivers which include better coverage for older vehicles and full coverage against natural disasters.
The new basic benefits included in SOMPO Motor are as follows:
Special perils coverage, where claim amount does not exceed RM10,000 or 20% of Sum Insured, whichever is lower,
Coverage for all drivers,
Repairs warranty for 12 months,
Emergency towing cost of RM300 following an accident.
“SOMPO Motor has reduced the hassle of going through commonly included add-ons for a comprehensive private car insurance by including them in the basic benefits. New add-on benefits also include better coverage for older vehicles and full coverage against natural disasters. We welcome the implementation of motor detariffication as it enables Berjaya Sompo to compete on a level playing ground, giving the spotlight to the true hero: SOMPO Motor. With this product, our main focus is enhancing the base level features and service level. We want to ensure we have a product that our customers find useful and beneficial,” said Mr. Stuart Chua, Chief Distribution Officer of Berjaya Sompo.
Consumers may also opt for new additional benefits such as full special perils coverage, unlimited towing costs within Malaysia, and waiver of betterment for vehicles up to 15 years. Another new feature of SOMPO Motor is that it provides consumers with the option to choose the Voluntary Excess of the Policy, ranging from 0% to 3% of the sum insured. Voluntary Excess of the Policy gives consumers the option to pay out of their own pocket for each claim, up to 3% of the claim amount, in exchange for a lower premium each month.
In addition, Berjaya Sompo is collaborating with esteemed car brands such as Honda Malaysia, Mazda Malaysia, and Nissan Malaysia to provide bundled insurance packages that are tailored to the needs of car owners.
Digitalization of Berjaya Sompo
In today’s digital-first world, consumers are now expecting and consuming information faster than ever and we need to constantly innovate to stay ahead.
Understanding the consumer mindset, Berjaya Sompo has taken major strides in activating digitalization across the company via a number of key initiatives, including: online product innovation, increasing digital distribution channels, introducing new B2C channels as well as strengthening its digital infrastructure.
Mr. Tan said, “Berjaya Sompo will be investing heavily in digitalization as a key focus area to move the brand forward. One example of this is digital innovation, as we are developing new B2C channels to serve today’s mobile customers, as well as the simplification of our online products across Motor, Travel, Snatch and Home as we make it quicker and easier for Malaysians to purchase our products. In the near future, we will also be looking at strengthening our data capabilities and translating meaningful data that will help us serve our customers better.”
As for brick and mortar stores, Berjaya Sompo has opened a new branch in Petaling Jaya in 2017 and another one in Seremban in September 2018. Beyond this, it has no further plans to increase its branch network – in accordance with Berjaya Sompo’s digital-first approach.
“We are confident that with on our digitalization journey, we can service our customers from any of our current locations, regardless of distance. Furthermore, we anticipate more and more clients moving online to buy, renew and claim insurance in the coming years, hence dependency on physical storefronts will reduce,” added Mr. Tan.
A Robust Talent Strategy
For Berjaya Sompo, building the capabilities of its internal talent pipeline is key. This will ensure that the workforce is motivated and driven to establish customer experience as the number one priority in becoming the preferred insurer, working towards achieving customer excellence.
“Internally, we have various development programmes in place for all levels of our workforce that provides training and practical skills for not only work-related tasks, but also developing intrinsic skills that will shape them for long-term advancement,” said Mr. Tan.
With these plans in place, Berjaya Sompo is fully committed to growing in and with Malaysians, especially at this historic era of Malaysia Baru. As the brand works towards not only fulfilling but exceeding the expectations of its stakeholders, the brand is confident about fulfilling its aspirations of becoming one of the top five general insurers in Malaysia, contributing to the Malaysian economy and serving Malaysians nationwide.
Lexus Malaysia recently opened the doors to its refurbished flagship Lexus facility in Mutiara Damansara, marking its further elevation beyond being just a premium automotive brand. Guests can now experience the exquisite Lexus luxury lifestyle in a facility that truly elevates all the five senses and more.
Through liberal use of high-tech digital innovation and technology, the new facility is able to create an unparalleled Lexus experience for every guest who visits the new outlet be it for a brand new Lexus automobile, quality after-sales care, a high-quality certified pre-owned vehicle or simply to purchase Lexus Lifestyle merchandise.
In presenting the new Lexus Mutiara Damansara, Ravindran K., President of Lexus Malaysia said that the enhancements to the facilities allowed Lexus Malaysia to redefine its core brand values and to clearly showcase them with a truly exclusive Lexus experience.
“Not by any means is the Lexus brand and its products deemed conventional. Neither then should the retail experience be. By designing innovative ways to excite and change the world, Lexus remains the visionary luxury brand that anticipates the future for people and society,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia.
Part of the challenge for a luxury lifestyle brand is to remain in step with the customer and at Lexus, this challenge is amply met through its omotenashi mantra by anticipating and fulfilling customers’ needs at every touch point.
Highlights of the new Lexus Mutiara Damansara include:
The Lexus Centre will delight all the senses beginning with the Lexus Signature Scent of Wild Earth greeting visitors.
Seamless and wireless sales and service experience where customers and prospects are able to receive precise, consistent and updated information via the Lexus Touch tablets.
Coffee is of the highest quality and sourced from Cafés Richard, a highly sought-after French brand synonymous with high-end Parisian cafés.
A highly-digitalized experience with surround LCD displays, digital vehicle information consoles, real-time service status and digital reading materials available throughout the building.
A Mark Levinson audio system is installed in an acoustically tuned room for guests to experience the kind of audiophile-quality sounds they can enjoy in select Lexus vehicles.
The flagship outlet boasts a retail space offering an array of well-stocked premium quality Lexus Lifestyle Collection merchandise allowing customers to fully enjoy their lifestyle aspirations.
The new Lexus Centre features a Zen Room where guests can enjoy a few moments of tranquility relaxing to soft music on massage or lounge chairs while their vehicles receive expert care.
The new Lexus Mutiara Damansara facility on Jalan PJU7/2 (after IKEA) is open daily showcasing brand-new and pre-owned Lexus models as well as offering quality care for all Lexus vehicles. For more details, visit Lexus.com.my.
For the 20th consecutive season, BMW M GmBH returns to the racetrack at the 2018 MotoGP World Championship to lead the world’s best motorcycle riders with its fleet of vehicles at the front. Every season, BMW M GmBH creates new highlights with its Safety Car. The latest models and impressive technical innovation are what makes the BMW M MotoGP Safety Cars of the past, present and future so special.
Prior to the high-octane event in Malaysia, the new spearhead of the Safety Car fleet – the BMW M5 MotoGP Safety Car with BMW M Performance Parts – will make appearances across Kuala Lumpur on a convoy with the BMW M5, BMW 530i M Sport, BMW S 1000 RR, and the BMW S 1000 RR Safety Bike.
The convoy will make a pit stop at Bangsar Village II, where a meet and greet session with BMW M MotoGP expert and three-time World Champion, Loris Capirossi will take place. Fans can also participate in the BMW S 1000 RR Safety Bike puzzle challenge and stand a chance to win main grandstand tickets to the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix, happening from 2nd to 4th November 2018.
PROTON announced recently that it has received over 10,000 bookings for the Proton X70 SUV during the official launch of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd, a new 4S dealer in Setapak. The Company also confirmed that it exceeded its 3S/4S outlet submission approval target of 109 and that more applications to open such outlets were still being received. PROTON’s highly anticipated first SUV, the Proton X70, was made available for prelaunch bookings from 8 September. Interested parties were invited to place a deposit at a PROTON outlet but since 17 October, they have also been able to use an online booking platform, allowing bookings to be made from anywhere with an Internet connection.
To date the response from Malaysians has been very encouraging as total bookings now total over 10,000 units of which nearly 2,000 were made online, thus confirming the Company made the correct decision to develop and launch the platform. “We are thankful to all Malaysians for the support they have given to PROTON since we started accepting bookings for the Proton X70. Despite our need to control the flow of information prior to its launch, the response has been very encouraging as we have received over 10,000 bookings with those placed online via our booking platform exceeding our expectations. We were unsure how customers would react to this new method to book a car but its success points to how cars might be sold in the future” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON (above).
“Now we ask for a little bit more patience from everybody as we make the final preparations for the launch of the Proton X70. This will be the first Proton SUV as well as the first car to be jointly developed by PROTON and Geely. We are working hard to ensure it meets the expectations of buyers and are also investing heavily in our outlets and dealerships so that we have the necessary sales and after sales resources to support such an important product,” he added.
Target for 3S/4S outlet approvals achieved…
Having stated its target to achieve 109 submission approvals for 3S/4S outlets earlier in the year, PROTON announced it has now exceeded the target amount. To date, 113 outlet submission approvals have been recorded, accounting for a 104% achievement against the set target. “We are very proud of this achievement as it means the market has responded well to the PROTON brand by deeming it as a good investment. I commend the efforts of our existing dealers who took the opportunity to stay invested with us as well as the new dealers for their faith and vision to see the potential for PROTON in the current and future automotive market,” added Dr Li.
“When JD Power released their 2018 Sales Satisfaction Index ranking (SSI) for mass market automotive brands, it showed PROTON had improved to sixth in the table with a score of 782 points. While we are not satisfied, we still managed to surpass the score of some of our major rivals, which is a sign our customers have responded positively to our efforts to serve them better. I believe with a concerted effort, we can achieve our target to be ranked in the top-3 by 2019,” he added.
New 4S outlet opens in Setapak… Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Ming Heng) is the newest 4S dealership to join the list of PROTON 4S outlets. Situated along Jalan Genting-Klang, the facility has a built-up area of 3074 square meters and cost RM6 million to build. On-site facilities and amenities include 14 work bays with 12 service hoists, a customer lounge, coffee area, free Wi-Fi, kids’ play area, laptop and mobile charging facilities as well as prayer rooms for the convenience of customers. The body and paint shop is still being commissioned and will be operational by December 2018.
“The decision to apply for a dealership was made because Ming Heng is confident of the potential the PROTON brand has for the future. We are thankful our proposal was accepted and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship that is focussed on delivering the best products and customer service to all customers,” said Eric Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd.
EFKON Asia Sdn Bhd, the Austrian technology provider of the Infra-Red Toll Collection System on Malaysian highways, has reassured the more than four million“SmartTag” users in the country that the company will continue to provide sales and service support for the system, since Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd recently announced that it would stop selling the SmartTAG devices through its channels. Long story short, yes, you can still use your SmartTag device in the given lane, and you can still buy a new one to install your TnG card into, only it’s not called a “SmartTag” anymore, it’s called a E-TAG. Same device, same price, different name.
A media briefing was held recently to allay any fears or suspicions that any might have in regards to this ‘new’ TnG card reader replacing the SmartTag, which actually looks very much like the SmartTag device we are all used to. In fact they are identical. Think of them as Big Apple and J-CO donuts, same thing, different branding.
The good news is that these devices are serviceable, so even if your current SmartTag has ‘lost’ its digital display readout (a major gripe among users of this device), EFKON can fix them for free if they’re still under warranty. A slight charge applies if they’re past their warranty date. This month, EFKON Asia plans to have in place a nationwide sales and service network to ensure wider availability and convenience to highway users who wish to purchase or service the Infra-Red E-TAG device, starting with SHELL petrol stations along major highways.
More on EFKON: Plans & availability…
Moving forward, the Infra-Red TAG device will be available under various brands which will be fully compatible with the current Malaysian toll system. MaxTAG by Sigma Technology Sdn Bhd is already on sale on the e-commerce platform, www.lazada.com.my and www.11street.my. In a firm endorsement of the device’s effectiveness, EFKON’s product has been incorporated as a built-in device in several new car models by major automotive manufacturers in the country (Perodua Myvi for example) at a rate of hundreds of thousands of units a year.
The TAG, which is manufactured in Malaysia, is also exported to Vietnam and Indonesia with a fast-expanding user community. Developed in 1997 and rolled out across the country in 2005, the Infra-Red Toll Collection System developed by local companies together with EFKON has proven to be the most reliable and efficient system in facilitating traffic flow on Malaysian highways.
According to EFKON the reason for the digital display in the previous SmartTag failing was the use of hot-glue instead of proper spot-soldering to connect the digital display to the main board. This glue didn’t hold up very well to our climate. We were assured that the new E-TAG devices are better made.
According to EFKON Asia director Helmuth Blasch, (above) the company’s Infra-Red Toll Collection System is also ready and suited for multi-lane traffic free flow. “In Germany, a similar Infra-Red System has proven to be effective and reliable in multi-lane traffic free flow environment for speeds above 120 km/h. We have also successfully replicated this test in Malaysia. In contrast to simple solutions, the Infra-Red DSRC (Dedicated Short-Range Communication) System also provides high security and protection from cloning the TAG for misuse. We are confident that this Infra-Red TAG System with its 13-year track record and more than four million satisfied customers in this country, will continue to prove its worth as an efficient, convenient and cost-effective cashless toll collection system,” he said.
“Infra-Red TAG devices are cost-effective solutions for frequent highway users. Each device is robustly-built with a high-impact resistant casing. As it can be kept inside a vehicle and not subject to external environment conditions and vandalism, one can easily last 15 years or more,” he added. “In Germany, the Nationwide Truck Tolling System that EFKON installed on all highways in a Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) configuration has proven to be highly effective, catering to more than two million trucks travelling at up to 100 km/h. In the Netherlands’ Westerschelde Tunnel, an initial plan to replace the Infra-Red System with RFID was scrapped after it was proven difficult to accurately direct microwaves at specific stickers, especially with the presence of large reflective metal surfaces such as tankers and containers nearby,”
From now till Sunday 28th October, Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor and custodian for the Peugeot brand in Malaysia is showcasing the New Peugeot 308 THP to the Malaysian public at Peugeot’s Motion & Emotion Roadshow at 1 Utama Shopping Mall. Built for people inspired by stylish design, engineering excellence and pure driving pleasure, Peugeot’s latest model will most certainly bring Ultimate Thrills to its driver and passengers.
“The New 308 THP exudes European flair and function, and is an upgraded variant of the best-selling Peugeot model in Malaysia. It was designed for the charismatic Malaysian with a passion for speed and being in control with its state-of-the-art technology and exemplary road handling. With that, we believe that the New 308 THP will become one of our best-selling models alongside the impeccable 3008 SUV,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings.
An evolved icon of refinement, the New 308 THP displays the latest Peugeot design language and dons a dynamic new look with a re-profiled front bumper, bonnet and radiator grille, incorporated with the iconic Peugeot Lion emblem. Inside, the stylish new car features the signature Peugeot i-Cockpit ergonomically designed to ensure safety and comfort with its compact steering wheel and 9.7-inch HD touchscreen, as well as a heads-up display positioned at the driver’s optimum eye level and raised centre console. The New 308 THP also offers advanced connectivity features such as Mirrorlink, Android Auto and Apple Carplay for seamless pairing with smart devices. Additionally, the 180° Reverse Camera with auto zoom enables easier parking and reversing.
Compared to the pre-facelift model, the New 308 THP is edgier and more responsive thanks to the proven award-winning 1.6 litre THP engine mated to a 6-speed auto transmission with Quickshift Technology. With a more efficient and powerful engine that is 15 PS more than the pre-facelift model, the New Peugeot 308 THP achieves an output of 167 PS at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm at 1,400 rpm of peak torque. The sporty car also has a top speed of 211 km/h while keeping fuel efficiency in check with a range-topping 800 km on a single tank. Peugeot’s latest model is also perfect for thrill-seekers, installed with a Sport mode which allows the driver a spirited drive.
Crafted with safety and comfort in mind, the Peugeot 308 THP is 140 kg lighter, more compact and sturdy with a lower centre of gravity as compared to its predecessor, for added stability. The car is also packed with safety systems including Peugeot Hill Start Assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) which makes it the ultimate road companion for manoeuvring through the congested Malaysian city traffic.
Available in five elegant colours Pearl White, Ultimate Red, Artense Grey, Magnetic Blue and Nera Black, the New Peugeot 308 THP is available for viewing from today until 28th October 2018 at the 1 Utama New Wing alongside award-winning Peugeot models – New 308 GTi, 3008 SUV, 5008 SUV and 208 Puretech.
Concurrently, Peugeot’s Motion & Emotion Roadshow is featuring the on-going Year-End Autovaganza Campaign with exciting deals and great savings of up to RM 12,000. Limited-time deals include the New Peugeot 308 THP at a starting price of RM 129,888 and Peugeot 3008 SUV from RM 141,888. Meanwhile, the Peugeot 5008 SUV retails for RM 172,888 and Peugeot 208 Puretech goes for RM86,888.
Peugeot fans can experience Peugeot’s Motion & Emotion Roadshow at Ground Floor, High Street, 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Get exclusive deals only at the roadshow and test drive your favourite Peugeot model; choose the 208 Puretech, 3008 SUV, 5008 SUV or New 308 THP.
All Peugeot models include a 5-year peace-of-mind or 120,000 km warranty, together with Nasim’s existing 24-hour Peugeot Assistance service and complimentary access to ‘SkyLounge by Naza’ at Subang Skypark. For more information about Peugeot models, log on to www.peugeot.com.my.
