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The BMW Group continues to lead the way in production innovation with the advancement of Automated Driving In-Plant (AFW) technology as part of its BMW iFACTORY framework. Following successful pilot tests since 2022, the AFW project has now entered series operation, beginning at the company’s largest European plant in Dingolfing.

The system leverages advanced digitalisation and automation, enhancing production efficiency and logistics. After the launch in Dingolfing, BMW’s Leipzig plant is set to adopt this cutting-edge technology, with other facilities in the production network slated to follow in phases.

Revolutionising Plant Operations with Automation

The AFW technology enables new BMW and Mini vehicles to drive autonomously through designated routes within the plant. For example, in Dingolfing, vehicles travel autonomously over one kilometre from assembly halls through the “short test course” to the finishing area.

Key to this innovation is the extensive LIDAR infrastructure, the largest in Europe, supported by state-of-the-art cloud architecture. This system, developed in collaboration with Swiss startup Embotech AG, ensures smooth and precise movements of vehicles, regardless of their equipment configurations.

Expanding Automation Across BMW Facilities
  • Dingolfing: Successfully implementing AFW for BMW 5 Series and 7 Series models.
  • Leipzig: Expanding to Mini Countryman and other BMW models, targeting 90% automation of vehicle movements.
  • Regensburg and Oxford: Set to adopt AFW by 2025.
  • Debrecen, Hungary: Launching the technology with the commencement of series production at the new site.
Future Applications and Developments

BMW plans to extend the use of AFW beyond in-plant operations, including:

  • Automated vehicle driving through testing zones.
  • Autonomous movement in outdoor distribution areas.

The development team is also exploring integration with on-board vehicle technology, which will work in tandem with external sensors to enhance efficiency.

Setting Benchmarks for Autonomous Driving

The AFW project represents BMW Group’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automation and digitalisation. Over the next decade, BMW plans to log millions of test kilometres with AFW technology within its global production network.

This pioneering step further cements BMW’s position as an innovation leader, transforming its production facilities into hubs of advanced technology and operational excellence.

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLR Malaysia) has once again demonstrated its dominance in the luxury automotive industry, securing the coveted Retailer of the Year (Asia Pacific) title at the Jaguar Land Rover Retailer Awards 2023/2024. This marks the company’s fifth overall win and an impressive fourth consecutive victory, underscoring its reputation as a leader in delivering exceptional automotive experiences.

Commitment to Excellence

The Retailer of the Year Award recognises outstanding performance across key areas, including marketing, sales, customer service, staff training, and retailer presentation. JLR Malaysia’s continued success reflects its ability to consistently exceed the highest industry standards.

Central to this success are Sime Motors’ core values of “Care for All, Act with Integrity, and Win Together”. These principles have shaped a customer-centric culture and collaborative approach, driving JLR Malaysia’s achievements year after year.

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Thirteen out of 33 highway concessionaires in Malaysia have not yet agreed to the implementation of the multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) gateless toll collection system, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan told the Dewan Rakyat today.

Negotiations with all concession companies are ongoing, with a deadline set for December 16, 2024. The MLFF system, which eliminates physical toll booths in favour of automated electronic toll collection, is already in use in countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Ahmad highlighted the complexities involved, stating that the MLFF system represents a “concession over a concession” arrangement.

“We have 33 highway concessionaires, but not all of them are on board yet. As of now, 20 companies are engaged in negotiations, while 13 are still holding out. If we fail to secure unanimous agreement by December 16, we will propose alternative solutions,” Ahmad said in response to a question from Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan (PN-Permatang Pauh).

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Isuzu Motors Limited has officially launched the updated D-MAX 1-ton pickup truck and MU-X 7-seater passenger vehicle in Thailand. Both models are powered by the newly developed RZ4F 2.2L diesel engine paired with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission (AT). These new vehicles, which promise improved start-up capability, acceleration, and fuel efficiency, will be available for sale in Thailand starting November 28, 2024.

The D-MAX and MU-X are well-regarded globally for their robust design, off-road capability, and fuel-efficient diesel engines. The addition of the RZ4F engine and 8-speed AT marks a significant upgrade, offering enhanced driving dynamics and performance. These improvements come in response to market demands and are expected to further strengthen the vehicles’ appeal to customers looking for dependable, efficient, and powerful vehicles.

In line with its mid-term business plan, “ISUZU Transformation – Growth to 2030,” Isuzu is pursuing a multi-pathway approach to vehicle power source technologies. This approach includes offering various powertrain options, such as internal combustion engine vehicles like the new RZ4F-powered models, as well as exploring the future potential of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs).

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Ahead of the much-anticipated reveal of the updated Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Manthey Racing, a German auto racing team, has introduced a factory-approved aerodynamic upgrade kit for the outgoing model. Backed by Porsche, which owns a 51% stake in Manthey, the package offers significant performance enhancements while maintaining the vehicle’s warranty.

The most noticeable change is the replacement of the rear window with a lightweight carbon fibre panel, which is 25% lighter than the original. The new panel integrates a shark fin antenna, inspired by the Porsche 963 endurance racer, and works in tandem with six smaller fins mounted on the roof. These fins direct hot air from the front radiators away from the rear intakes, allowing for cooler and more efficient airflow.

In the rear, the 911 GT3 RS is equipped with a redesigned carbon rear wing featuring modified endplates to boost downforce. A larger diffuser enhances stability, while carbon fibre aerodisc wheel covers reduce air resistance. These combined modifications enable the car to generate over 1,000kg of downforce at speeds of 284km/h.

Beyond its aerodynamic tweaks, the Manthey kit also includes mechanical upgrades. The front axle receives a 30% increase in spring rates, while the rear benefits from a 15% improvement. Additional components include new shock absorbers and racing brake pads, specifically designed for models equipped with ceramic-composite brakes. The package also features aesthetic touches such as carbon fiber decals, illuminated door sill guards, LED door projectors, and a towing eye for track use only.

Manthey’s engineers spent two years developing the kit, subjecting it to extensive testing across European racetracks. The company has hinted at plans to showcase its performance with a timed lap at the Nürburgring. The goal is to improve upon the stock GT3 RS’s lap time of 6 minutes and 49.32 seconds, set in October 2022, and approach the 6:43.30 record achieved by a previous-generation GT2 RS fitted with Manthey components in 2021.

For GT3 RS owners eager to upgrade, the new kit is already available for order. It will be delivered to European Union markets starting in January 2025, with availability in non-EU regions following in March. The price for this specific kit has not been disclosed.

With this latest offering, Manthey reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of Porsche’s engineering excellence, ensuring that the 911 GT3 RS remains at the forefront of track performance.

Malaysians residing far from the capital can look forward to enjoying summons discounts at police stations nationwide, as the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) plans to extend the program following its success in Kuala Lumpur, according to Sinar Harian. This initiative is part of the ongoing Two Years of Madani Government (2TM) Program.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) Director, Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, announced that discussions are underway to finalise the discount rates, expected to be implemented starting mid-December. He noted that the current 60 percent discount offered during the 2TM Program and the 2024 National Convention on Public Service Reform will serve as a benchmark for upcoming programs.

“We are focusing on completing the summons payment period for the 2TM Program, which runs from today until Sunday. After that, we aim to launch a nationwide summons discount program at police stations by mid-December, offering reductions of between 30 and 50 percent,” said Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).

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