August was a good month for the carmakers in Malaysia as improved production output enabled them to deliver more vehicles. Like Proton, market leader Perodua also reported significantly higher numbers for its August deliveries with 26,039 units registered nationwide or 42% more than in July.
“We are currently trying to build on this production improvement to ensure speedier delivery to our customers,” Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.
The Bezza had the highest output in August but the Myvi remains the brand’s bestseller.
Bezza output highest Of the 28,036 units produced in August, the Bezza accounted for the most number (24.2%), closely followed by the Myvi which accounted for 22.2%. The Axia output was the third highest with 4,857 units (17.3%) leaving the factory in Sg. Choh, Selangor.
“For the newly launched Alza, we have received bookings of 51,000 units so far,” said Dato’ Sri Zainal, adding that 7,682 units registered in July and August. An average of over 1,000 orders were received daily in the first 27 days after bookings opened, swelling the order bank to over 30,000 orders by launch day.
10 months to get Alza? With production of the new Alza having started in June and a targeted volume of 3,000 units a month, the already large number of orders means that the waiting period could stretch to 10 months.
The cumulative volume of deliveries achieved for the first 8 months of this year shows an increase of 63.7% to 171,728. In the same period in 2021, 104,933 units were registered nationwide.
Dato’ Sri Zainal points out, however, that this comparison must also be seen in the light of the country having a lockdown situation between June 1 to August 15 last year. During that time, all non-essential operations were stopped, including vehicle production and sales activities.
The ‘King’ is still bestseller “The Myvi remains our bestseller this year with 48,658 units delivered, followed by the Bezza with 39,642 units, and the Axia 37,013 units,” he said.
Supply better but costs rising Dato’ Sri Zainal said the improvement in production and sales came about as some key issues have been resolved at the moment. These issues relate to the global semiconductor chip supply shortage and insufficient labour at some suppliers’ operations which lead to disrupted supply of some components.
“We are also closely monitoring the increase in prices of raw materials at the moment and are working with the ecosystem on how best to mitigate this impact to our production operations,” he added.
To know more about Perodua’s products and services, visit www.perodua.com.my.
Although it had a slow start to 2022, Proton’s production has now risen substantially and in August, deliveries totalled 15,880 units (including export sales). It was the best sales month for the Malaysian carmaker since July 2013, 109 months ago.
Cumulatively, for the first 8 months of the year, sales of Proton vehicles reached 87,481 units, a 39.7% over the 62,637 achieved between January and August 2021. By Proton’s estimate (based on the expected Total Industry Volume of 66,900 units), that would give it a market share of 19.5%, with the August numbers alone taking the share to an estimated 23.7%.
The company remains focused on ending 2022 with a fourth consecutive year of volume growth.
Sales leadership Despite the recent launch of new direct rivals from other brands, Proton has maintained its position at the top of the SUV segment. The X50 reached a third consecutive month where deliveries crossed the 4,000-unit level with 4,329 units delivered in August. It’s the first time an SUV has achieved such a feat in Malaysia and comes on the back of its industry record with 4,763 units in July.
Click here to find out how you could win a new X50 by just spending RM30.
The larger X70 contributed 1,555 units in August, bringing Proton’s total SUV sales for the month to 5,884 units. The cumulative volume for 8 months is now at 37,489 units.
On the passenger car side, the Saga also benefited from improved component supply as 6,156 units were delivered last month. Demand for the latest Saga remains high and total deliveries have exceeded 14,000 units since its launch in May this year.
The biggest beneficiaries of the increase in production volume were the Persona and Iriz. 2,612 units of the Persona were delivered nationwide, the highest number since February 2020. For the Iriz, the 962 units delivered were at a sales level not since April 2021.
Stabilised production “With four months to go in 2022, Proton’s production operations have stabilised. Critically, our component supply is now more consistent and better managed to ensure we can produce as many cars as possible. With that in mind, we have undertaken an initiative to increase the number of delivery trucks by over 100% by the end of the year. This makes it easier to ensure our dealers receive their stock as quickly as possible and, in turn, this benefits our customers who have been patiently waiting for their vehicles,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton.
To Ford, the lives of the occupants of a pick-up truck like the Ranger are no less valuable than those in a passenger car, and require the maximum level of protection that can be provided. For this reason, the next-gen Ford Ranger pick-up truck comes with some of the latest in crash protection features and driver assistance technologies.
Passive Safety systems and features include the tough vehicle structure, SRS airbags, and 3-point seatbelts while Active Safety systems include driver assistance technologies (XLT Plus and Wildtrak) to alert the driver and help him avoid accidents.
During the development phase, numerous computer-aided engineering (CAE) models were built to test various accident scenarios. These included full-frontal, frontal offset, pole test, rear offset crash tests, pedestrian impacts, roof crush tests, and more. Additionally, the team conducted hundreds of physical tests to ensure vehicle safety performance was met and to validate the CAE modelling.
As safety technology keeps advancing all the time, this new generation of the Ranger gets some of the latest systems that make motoring even safer. Here are some of the new safety technologies:
Post-Collision Braking [Available on Ranger WildTrak/XLT Plus] In the immediate moments following a collision, the vehicle may be headed in an unpredictable direction. It could hit another object – a lamp post or another vehicle. To reduce this risk, the next-gen Ranger has Ford’s post-collision braking system which automatically applies the brakes after a collision. The system automatically engages with moderate brake pressure when an initial collision has occurred, so the vehicle will come to a standstill and avoid a secondary collision.
Pre-Collision Assist [Available on Ranger WildTrak/XLT Plus] Pre-collision Assist uses both the new, wide-view windscreen-mounted camera and radar located near the front bumper to scan the road ahead to detect a potential collision with another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist directly in front of the vehicle. If an imminent collision is detected, the system emits an audible and visual warning. If the driver’s response is not sufficient, the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system will activate automatically.
The AEB system has been enhanced with cyclist and pedestrian detection capability as well as the ability to provide AEB support at an intersection in some instances, thanks to the addition of the new, wider camera coverage. Whenever a possible collision is detected and the fails to take corrective action, the vehicle will apply the brakes automatically.
Before the AEB activates, the driver will get a Forward Collision Warning, an audible tone which will be very evident because the audio system (if on) will be muted. If the driver does not respond correctly, ie slow down or brake, then AEB will activate.
Evasive Steer Assist [Available on Ranger WildTrak] A segment-first feature in the next-gen Ranger is Evasive Steer Assist which also helps prevent potential collisions. In the event a vehicle in front is too slow or has stopped, the Ranger driver can get additional assistance in the steering to steer around the hazard. This will be valuable when braking alone cannot fully avoid the collision. The advanced system is designed to operate at both urban and highway speeds and employs the same camera and radar used with the Pre-collision Assist feature.
Reverse Brake Assist [Standard on Ranger WildTrak] Reverse Brake Assist helps the driver to avoid or mitigate potential collisions while reversing. The system may detect moving vehicles or stationary pedestrians and objects behind the Ranger. While some other systems may only alert the driver, the system in the next-gen Ranger will automatically apply the brakes to briefly stop the vehicle, should the driver not react in time.
Cross Traffic Alert [Available on Ranger WildTrak] Tricky reversing situations are a little less stressful with the next-gen Ford Ranger’s Cross Traffic Alert system. When the driver shifts into Reverse, the system is active, and will alert the driver of a vehicle approaching from the sides, when reversing out of a driveway onto a street, or even from a busy supermarket parking spot.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go [Available on Ranger WildTrak] Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go is more advanced than just cruise control. It is an intelligent feature that maintains a safe gap with a vehicle ahead whatever the cruising speed is set at. This is done by scanning the road ahead with the camera and radar and if there is a vehicle, the speed will be adjusted.
The system in the next-gen Ranger is even more advanced that many Adaptive Cruise Control systems as it operates down to standstill. With other systems, the cruise control will deactivate below a certain speed. The Ford system can slow the vehicle right down to standstill when necessary, and then resume forward movement when the vehicle ahead moves on.
BLIS Available in many passenger cars today, this system is like having another ‘set of eyes’ when performing a lane change or joining a highway. If a faster-moving vehicle enters the Ranger’s blind spot zone, BLIS will alert the driver via a small light on the side mirror (left or right), so they know not to change lanes.
Next-Gen Ranger In East Malaysia After journeying around Peninsular Malaysia on a series of previews before it has its official showroom launch, the next-gen Ranger will cross the South China Sea to East Malaysia.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will hold previews at Vivacity Megamall in Kuching, on September 7 – 11, and at Suria Sabah Shopping Centre in Kota Kinabalu on October 5 – 9, 2022.
If you would like to attend either of these two events, sign up here for an exclusive invitation. Alternatively, you can visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information about the next-gen Ranger, or follow the Ford Malaysia Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channels.
Like any progressive manufacturer, Continental constantly improves its products. Not only is the upgrading only for current requirements and conditions but also with foreseeable changes in the market in future.
Following the success of its Generation 6 products, the tyremaker has now moved to Generation 7, with the first of this new generation in Malaysia being the UltraContact UC7. An all-round tyre, it prioritizes safety, with an emphasis on exceptional noise comfort and long drive life.
“The specific needs and driving habits of consumers are constantly evolving, and Continental Tyres is committed to bringing continuous innovations that meet those changing needs. We invest heavily in the development of every single product we bring to market, and the resulting UltraContact UC7 truly represents a next-generation upgrade,” said Dalibor Kalina, Head of BA Replacement Tires Asia Pacific.
Significant improvements In comparison to the UltraContact UC6, the UltraContact UC7 has significant improvements in braking and control on wet ground, important with Malaysia’s tropical climate. Other performance aspects such as fuel efficiency, dry braking, and handling are also enhanced.
To offer the best driving experience to consumers, Continental has developed flagship technologies focusing on the unique consumer requirements for each segment. Specially tailored for the all-round segment, Confidence+ Technology combines the best of the brand’s compound technology and construction design features to create the ultimate tyre that does not compromise on any aspect of safety, comfort, handling, or mileage.
Extensive testing before launch With on-road safety as the greatest priority, before every new tyre product goes into the market, it is subjected to test after test to ensure that its performance across all aspects meets Continental’s highest requirements.
“We take pride in our safety technologies that have been highly recognised for generations. With ‘Vision Zero’ as our top priority, we strive to achieve zero accidents, zero injuries, and zero fatalities on the road,” said Andrea Somorova, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia.
The development of the UltraContact UC7 was carried out by a worldwide team of around 25 engineers and material experts. They spent more than 9,500 hours designing, simulating, building, and testing all the prototypes with the target consumer always in mind.
During the development phase alone, Continental engineers conducted more than 850 tests under various conditions, with a combined distance that could circle the earth 12 times. As Bob Liu, Director of Continental R&D Asia Pacific, explained, “We put this tyre through rigorous rounds of testing to ensure we meet our own exacting standards and can deliver cutting-edge tyre technology to consumers. We will continue to do so as we further expand the portfolio to establish powerful, competitive offerings for the market.”
What makes it better? Featuring the Continental ‘Diamond DNA’ – Diamond Compound, Noise Breaker 3.0 and Aqua Channel Advanced – the new UltraContact UC7’s superior wet performance is proven by a shorter braking distance and strong grip on wet slippery roads. This is due to the Aqua Channel Advanced surface sipes on the centre part of the pattern which efficiently evacuate water to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
Simultaneously, the innovative Noise Breaker 3.0 design with Flow X-celerator leverages the Venturi Effect principle to accelerate water flow through the groove, improving surface contact between rubber and road.
Thirdly, the Diamond Compound formulation enhances the transformation of kinetic energy into heat at optimum levels, resulting in shorter braking distances – even on wet roads.
The second advantage of the UltraContact UC7 is a quieter and more harmonic drive as a result of reduced noise levels and smooth vibrational frequency. As sound waves travel through the grooves, the Noise Breaker 3.0 interrupts the waves by disrupting the homogeneity of the grooves.
The sound waves are broken up and dissipated into smaller waves, preventing noise from building up and traveling into the cabin of the car. The Diamond Compound with whisper touch also contributes to reduced noise generation by absorbing impact from the road.
The third advantage is long drive life, allow the motorist a better return on his expenditure. The Diamond Compound’s optimised polymer network provides wear resistance for long-lasting tread life.
The UltraContact UC7 is available, in sizes from 15 inches to 18 inches. It is suitable for fitment on compact and mid-size cars, MPVs, and luxury sedans. Although launched, Continental Tyres has not released the prices for the new tyres.
Castrol, an automotive lubricant brand long favoured motorcyclists and motorists, recently commemorated an exciting phase in its history in Malaysia with a street festival. During the public event at Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, an innovative new engine oil for motorcycles was launched – Castrol’s POWER1 ULTIMATE SUPERBIKE 10W-50 engine oil.
The new engine oil is designed to provide powerful performance, smoother rides and ultimately memorable journeys. With a comprehensive 5-in-1 formula, POWER1 ULTIMATE SUPERBIKE 10W-50 provides maximum performance with efficient durability, stable temperature and a cooler oil gallery
The fully-synthetic oil focuses on exceptional performance across 5 key areas: excellent acceleration; excellent protection; smooth riding; and a cooler engine with enduring performance.
The 2-day event at the heart of Sentul also witnessed the launch of an exclusive WhatsApp contest to commemorate the historical Castrol-Premier League partnership with a Grand Prize of a 5D4N trip to the UK to watch a EPL match live.
On the second day, the Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE SUPERBIKE preview was graced by a convoy of superbikes.
The booths and games simulated the EPL environment in conjunction with Castrol’s partnership with EPL for the year. The games included soccer match table/foosball, carrom football board and ultimate free-kick. Consumers who purchased Castrol products at the event were entitled to participate in the games.
To join the contest, there are three simple steps which can win you amazing prizes. Firstly, purchase any Castrol POWER1/POWER1 ULTIMATE/POWER1 ULTIMATE SUPERBIKE range of products from participating Castrol Bike Point workshops. Then, via WhatsApp, answer a simple question. Finally, submit proof of purchase and required identification details.
From September to December 2022, there will be 88 monthly winners. All submitted entries will qualify for the Grand Prize draw, scheduled to take place at the end of the campaign.
Monthly prizes include Oppo RENO 6 smartphones, Casio G-Shock watches, exclusive merchandise and more. The Grand Prizes include a trip to the UK to watch a live PL match, a Yamaha R15M motorcycle, and an iPhone 13 Pro Max.
“This was an exciting event for Castrol Malaysia as we commemorated two key milestones for the year. With the Castrol POWER1 ULTIMATE SUPERBIKE 10W-50 launch and the commencement of the Castrol-EPL partnership, Castrol is confident to continue creating history and to build on its presence in the advanced superbike oil engineering sector. We’re happy to have met our consumers who have been with us all along and the event also served as an opportunity for us to show our gratitude to them,” said Keow Mei-Shan, Marketing Director of Castrol Malaysia & Singapore.
Aston Martin’s DBX707 – the world’s most powerful luxury SUV – is now available in Malaysia, priced from RM1,098,000 (excluding taxes). While the DBX V8, the brand’s first SUV, was presented as a superlative product, the DBX707 pushes the performance envelope even further.
Aston Martin’s engineering team has extracted the full potential of the DBX’s 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 powerplant by making some changes like using ball bearing turbochargers and a bespoke engine calibration to liberate more power and torque which are 707 ps and 900 Nm, respectively. These represent increases of 157 ps and 200 Nm over the DBX V8.
Also new is a 9-speed wet clutch automatic transmission designed to handle the much increased torque loadings compared with a regular torque converter automatic.
The new transmission has quicker shifts, giving more immediate and direct response. According to Aston Martin, launch capability is also improved, and the DBX707 can go from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 310 km/h.
As a responsible manufacturer, Aston Martin did not just boost the output without ensuring that other important elements are also beefed up. The DBX70 gets standard fitment of Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCB) with 6-piston calipers and there’s also a 40.5-kg reduction in unsprung weight.
Revisions to the brake system’s hydraulic sizing and booster tune improve pedal feel and braking response for greater precision and driver confidence. Improved brake cooling has been achieved by taking air from both the main cooling intake and the underfloor, with high performance brake pads delivering excellent friction consistency across a wide temperature range.
There’s also a new version of the electronic limited slip rear differential (e-diff). Strengthened to handle the maximum output of torque, it is fitted with a revised final drive ratio of 3.27 compared to 3.07 for the DBX V8. This helps to give stronger response in the lower gears as well as enhances in-gear response.
To underline the driver-focused credentials of the DBX707, the GT Sport and Sport+ driving modes now feature ‘Race Start’ to give drivers the full experience of the vehicle’s unrivalled off-the-line acceleration. Revised active logic in the all-wheel drive transfer case enhances control between the driveline and ESP system for a more natural, sports car-like driving experience.
Torque distribution front-to-rear is fully automatic, with the ability to send up to 100% of the torque to the rear axle on demand. Careful calibration of the e-diff ensures the DBX707 has the cornering agility, sporting feel and dynamic character of a sportscar.
The DBX707’s air suspension system has the same basic architecture and triple volume air chambers of the DBX V8 but gains a dedicated chassis tune. New damper valving and recalibration of dynamic spring volume switching has improved body control and steering response.
While the overall design is similar to the DBX V8, there are distinct differences for the DBX707. The front end treatment is unique with a larger grille and the DRLs are also different. Also new are the air intakes and brake cooling ducts, plus a new front splitter profile. The enlarged grille has double vanes, with the 6 horizontal bars now split to create more visual .
A new lip spoiler has been added to the roof wing which reduces lift and increases high speed stability. A pair of large-diameter tailpipes projects at each side of the significantly enlarged twin rear diffuser.
Seated in the cabin of the DBX707 after shutting the soft-close doors, the Aston Martin DNA is immediately evident with the standard sport seats and sleek, dark chrome switchgear complementing the satin black appointments of the exterior.
Customers have three choices of interior and if those packaged and proposed by the interior designers are not appealing enough, Q by Aston Martin offers bespoke personalisation. While James Bond’s ‘Q’ can provide cars with sophisticated weapons, these are not available for obviously reasons from Aston’s Martin’s Q. But almost anything else can be provided – limited only by the customer’s imagination.
Some of the options available to customers who want to customise their Aston Martin.
Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur says that they already have a few reservations for the DBX707 (which is not a limited edition). For customers who intend to keep their DBX707 for a considerable length of time, there is now an option of an extended warranty up to 20 years (subject to terms and conditions).
