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Using brainwaves to change the colour of your car!

Wouldn’t it be nice to have the colour of your car change as you wish, with just the touch of a button? It’s still an idea in science fiction but the BMW Group has developed a technology which can do it. The technology, known as E Ink, was demonstrated on a BMW iX Flow at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2022 in Las Vegas this year.

“Since then, we have already introduced further improvements for the technology,” said Stella Clarke, project lead of the BMW iX Flow. “Previously, the changes between colour patterns only took place in a gradual transition. Now, the control electronics have been tweaked to enable instantaneous transformations, resulting in an even more stunning visual effect.”

Neurotechnology to change colours
In a one-off collaboration with the BMW Group, a Munich-based start-up called brainboost has developed a new and improved colour-changing effect using brainwaves. With the help of brainboost, the BMW iX Flow was connected directly to the brain of the delegates at a dialogue platform using an electroencephalograph (EEG), which records the brain’s electrical activity.

“The colour patterns of the BMW iX Flow react to brain activity and reflect the level of activity,” explained brainboost CEO Philipp Heiler. “Once the brain is at rest, the changes of patterns on the iX Flow also become calmer and more rhythmical.”

A special animation was activated if delegates managed to maintain this state for several seconds. Thus, the participants were able to gradually calm and relax their brains under the guidance of the brainboost experts and with the help of neurofeedback via the iX Flow.

Technology behind the colour change
The body of the BMW iX Flow is laminated in a special film containing millions of colour capsules. When stimulated by electrical signals, negatively charged white pigments or positively charged black ones will collect at the surface, thereby changing the exterior colour.

The innovative E Ink technology opens completely new ways of changing the vehicle’s appearance in line with the driver’s aesthetic preferences, the environmental conditions or even functional requirements. By making it possible to alter the body colour and display different patterns, the BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink opens up a whole new way of personalising the driving experience.

Apart from a greater degree of personalisation, a customer will also not have to settle for just one colour – he or she can have many more for different occasions! “This gives the driver the freedom to express different facets of their personality or even their enjoyment of change outwardly, and to redefine this each time they sit into their car,” said Clarke.

Colour variability enhances efficiency
A variable exterior colour can also contribute to wellness in the interior and to the efficiency of the vehicle. This is done by taking account of the different abilities of light and dark colours when it comes to reflecting sunlight and the associated absorption of thermal energy. A white surface reflects a lot more sunlight than a black one. By implication, heating of the vehicle and passenger compartment as a result of strong sunlight and high outside temperatures can be reduced by changing the exterior to a light colour. In cooler weather, a dark outer skin will help the vehicle to absorb noticeably more warmth from the sun.

In both cases, selective colour changes can help to cut the amount of cooling and heating required from the vehicle’s air conditioning. This reduces the amount of energy the vehicle electrical system needs and with it also the vehicle’s fuel or electricity consumption.

In an all-electric car, changing the colour in line with the weather can therefore also help to increase the range. In the interior, the technology could, for example, prevent the dashboard from heating up too much.

E Ink technology itself is extremely energy efficient. Unlike displays or projectors, the electrophoretic technology needs absolutely no energy to keep the chosen colour state constant. Current only flows during the short colour changing phase.

The technology is still under development and as with many new advanced technologies, it will be expensive when it is initially offered. But over time, the cost could come down and then everyone can have a colour-changing car (the police won’t be happy!).

THE 8 X JEFF KOONS – most elaborately designed vehicle in all of BMW’s history

2022 Maserati MC20 Cielo spyder

In September 2020, Maserati launched its latest supercar – the MC20 (which stands for ‘Maserati Corse’ and ‘2020’) as part of a long-term plan to return to greatness, especially in the performance segment. Now comes a ‘topless’ version – the MC20 Cielo spyder – which has a similar overall form as the MC20 but also its own distinct character.

With ‘Cielo’ meaning ‘sky’ in Italian, the design’s emphasis is on bringing the clouds and stars into the cabin, so to speak. This is achieved courtesy of a powered mechanism that folds the roof into a storage area at the rear. The roof is said to be best-in-class in terms of thermal insulation and of opening/closing speed (12 seconds).

An open feeling is also possible with the roof in place, thanks to electrochromic ‘smart glass’. With the press of a button, the glass can go from opaque to clear, or reverse the process. Electrochromic glass has been around for some time now and used in non-automotive applications as well. It is usually offered with more expensive high-end models for sunroof applications and is also used for rearview mirrors.

In the case of the MC 20 Cielo’s sunroof, Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) technology is used. The glass switches its transparency using electricity charges that cause special elements sandwiched in the glass to darken or lighten.

The MC20 Cielo is equipped with an optional High Premium Sonus faber audio system. This has been specially optimized to fit the unique acoustic and positioning needs of the spyder’s cabin which will, at times, be open. The system’s 12 speakers have been located to give the natural sound quality that distinguishes audio systems from the Italian specialist in high-end audio systems,

Like the MC20, the MC20 Cielo has spent a long period in the wind tunnel to refine the aerodynamic efficiency of its minimalist design. There are certain ‘wow’ features that are common, eg the butterfly doors which open up like wings unfolding upwards. They are designed to make it easier for the driver and passengers to get in and out despite the low floor.

The engine is the Maserati-patented 90-degree V6 Nettuno twin-turbo petrol engine with the Twin Combustion Chamber. This approach increases combustion efficiency by using a pre-combustion chamber with twin spark plugs. The concept has so far been used only in F1 engines, so this is another example of F1 technology being transferred to a road car. Though supplied by Ferrari, the engine has been further developed by Maserati’s own engineers and is also built on its own premises.

From the 3000 cc of displacement, 630 bhp/ 730 Nm are produced, delivered to the rear wheels through an 8-speed, dual-clutch transmission.

The MC20 Cielo, like its brother, has a carbonfibre monocoque tub enclosed by a lightweight carbonfibre and aluminium bodyshell. The platform is also ready for electrification in future without requiring much structural alteration.

The MC20 Cielo is offered with an exclusive Acquamarina colour, available as part of the Maserati Fuoriserie customisation programme. This launch colour uses a 3-layer paint based on a racing-inspired grey, with an iridescent mica in aquamarine.

To make the connection between the spyder’s elegance and sporty soul even more exclusive, customers can choose the PrimaSerie Launch Edition. This is a limited series with exclusive features such as the Acquamarina bodywork, ice-coloured interior and even a few golden details.

David Beckham creates a Maserati MC20 that is truly his own

30 Lucky BHPetrol customers receive gold bar prizes

30 Malaysians had ‘golden moments’ today as they received gold bars as prizes from Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, the company marketing BHPetrol fuel and lubricants. The 30 men and women were among the 100 winners of the BHPetrol ‘Fuel-ing Ong’ contest which was run during the Chinese New Year period earlier in the year.

More than half a million entries from across the country were received during the 3-month period of the contest. Customers at BHPetrol stations were entitled to an entry each time they made a purchased BHPetrol fuels or bought items from the BHPetromart convenience store (minimum RM30). All they had to do was fill out an entry form or it was automatically submitted via the BHPetrol eCard mobile app.

There were two categories of prizes – 10 gms and 20 gms of 999.9 gold bars. ‘999.9’ means the gold content in each bar is 99.99%, essentially making it pure gold. One gram of gold has the value of RM271 today (May 26, 2022), so it was certainly very good fortune for the winners to spend at a BHPetrol station.

Commenting on the promotion, Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad, BHPetrol’s Acting CEO, said that there was increased sales volume at the stations during the period. This trend was also seen in the usage of the BHPetrol eCard which offers rewards to loyal members.

“I would like to congratulate all the lucky winners today and wish to express my gratitude to all customers who have participated in the contest. This is one of our ways to rewards customers who have been supportive of the brand all these years,” said Ir. Azizul, who presented the prizes to the winners.

“It is also part of the company’s ongoing marketing activities to generate interest and awareness of the available offers at our BHPetrol stations which number about 400 nationwide. We will continue to have more exciting promotions and to continue to provide excellent service to all our customers,” he promised.

Motorists also have an opportunity till the end of May 2022 to win prizes in the ‘BHPetrol Riang Raya Hari Raya‘ promotion which has a total of RM220,000 worth of prizes. Click here to know more.

This BHPetrol’s 16^th year of operations, having started as a Malaysian brand of high quality fuel and lubricants on February 14, 2006. The network of stations has been growing each year and at some 300 of them, there are also BHPetromart convenience stores. These stores provide not only a wide variety of essential products but also useful services to motorists.

BHPetrol fuels have long been recognized for their performance and advanced German additive technology. Motorists enjoy better performance and fuel economy when they use BHPetrol regularly. The brand was also the first in Malaysia to introduce the more environment-friendly Euro5 grade of biodiesel in the country.

Besides fuel and lubricants, BHPetrol is also involved in the distribution of LPG (liquid petroleum gas) for domestic and commercial use.

To know more about BHPetrol products and services or to locate a station, visit www.bhpetrol.com.my.

To download the latest BHPetrol eCard mobile app, visit the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

What a future Mercedes-AMG model will look like

Everyone is going electric and so will Mercedes-AMG, the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG. And it is no longer a change that will take place in the next decade – stricter regulations have forced carmakers to act quickly and most have already a few fully electric models on sale, with more in the pipeline during this decade.

At Mercedes-AMG, it’s not just about switching to electric powertrains but doing so while retaining the high performance which the brand has built its reputation on. “We’re developing everything from scratch, from the dedicated AMG.EA platform to the revolutionary drivetrain technology with which we will take performance electric mobility to a whole new level,” said Philipp Schiemer, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“AMG is reinventing itself. As was once the case with our founding fathers, there has been an amazing feeling of new beginnings here in Affalterbach [the home base of AMG] for quite some time now. The course has been well and truly set for an electrified future, and we’ve set the bar high. That’s because our customers expect something very special from all-electric cars. We have already well and truly proven our expertise in this regard with the SLS AMG Electric Drive, our own E PERFORMANCE hybrid technology and the first Mercedes-EQ derivatives,” he said.

To provide a glimpse of what its future high-performance products will look like, it has built the Vision AMG showcar. Like the Vision EQXX concept presented by Mercedes-EQ earlier, the Vision AMG is a design study which is not the basis for a future model though its technologies will be used in a new sportscar that will be out in 2025.

Monolithic sculpture
The proportions of the car are defined by a long wheelbase, and emphasised by short overhangs, powerful shoulders, large wheels, a distinctive rear spoiler and star-shaped headlamp signature. Joints and shut lines are reduced to a minimum, and the rear and side windows are painted in the same Alubeam silver as the car itself. The result is an overall look that reinforces the impression of a monolithic sculpture.

The graceful greenhouse is integrated into the flowing overall form and blends seamlessly into the low-lying silhouette. The roof tapers as its line drops elegantly towards the rear, flowing directly into the rear spoiler. The overall effect is a visually fascinating and aerodynamically advantageous teardrop form, not unlike that of the VISION EQXX.

The sharply angled tear-off edge at the rear incorporates an active spoiler, elongating the side view while at the same time improving the aerodynamics. It is framed by a precisely cut band of light that accommodates a variety of different light installations, providing an effective contrast with the large black AMG logo on the rear of the car.

Technical details are provided in general terms, with mention of a dedicated high-performance high-voltage battery pack and revolutionary drive technology. The powerful heart of the Vision AMG is its innovative Axial Flux Motor developed by Mercedes-Benz’ wholly owned subsidiary, YASA. With its compact and lightweight design, can deliver substantially more power than conventional electric motors.

Closed-off AMG grille
While an EV has no cooling requirements like a car with a combustion engine, the AMG grille with vertical bars is retained as a distinctive brand feature. The grille is therefore closed off, painted in body colour and fully integrated into the front end. As the visual focal point, the grille emphasises the futuristic look of the Vision AMG with its illuminated bars and three-dimensional exterior contour. The three-pointed star is positioned prominently on the bonnet.

Star-shaped light signature
The headlamp light signature is unique with 3 LED elements forming a stylised, three‑dimensional Mercedes star, ensuring the Mercedes and AMG branding is visible night and day. The two headlamps are visually connected via the horizontal band of light above the grille. This light band can display a variety of animations – ranging from a welcome signature to constant light.

The round lights at the rear have a light design that is new yet familiar. On each side, three LED rings are positioned in cylindrical tubes. Here, too, small stars link to the Mercedes brand. By way of contrast, the expressive rear diffuser is painted deep black.

Connection to Formula 1
The Mercedes-AMG name is very prominent in Formula 1 with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team having won the world championship 8 times. The Vision AMG makes a direct connection in visual details. Examples are the silver paintwork with a large-format star pattern across the shoulders and rear wings; functional elements in exposed carbonfibre; the aerodynamic design of the 22-inch wheels with aero claddings; the AMG logo; and elements on the sills and diffuser in the PETRONAS colours.

30 years ago, the Mercedes-Benz F 100 showed the future of motoring

Fuel Price Updates For May 26 – June 1, 2022

A Porsche stars again in new Top Gun movie, and it’s not a replica this time

“Top Gun: Maverick” – the sequel to the 1986 movie – will finally screen this week after its release was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For those who love planes and flying action, it’s one of the greatest all-time movies and from the trailers shown in the past months, we are assured of lots of fantastic action – and they’re with real planes, not CGI.

Car enthusiasts will remember that the original Top Gun had a Porsche which appeared a number of times in various scenes. It was driven by ‘Charlie’, the girlfriend of ‘Maverick’ (Tom Cruise) and the first time we saw it in action was when she sped across an intersection chasing after him.

That Porsche was a classic model, a 1958 Speedster… but it was actually a replica, not one of the original 3,676 cars built. The one in the movie was made by Intermeccanica and had a fibreglass body resembling the model. Looked pretty authentic anyway.

*The Porsche Speedster in the 1986 ‘Top Gun’ movie.*

In the new movie, another Porsche will also appear for brief moments and its presence was already spotted in the commercial that Porsche showed at the Super Bowl 2022 event in February. Apart from the other Porsche models shown, there is one which is a late 1970s 911 S with Maverick and Penny Benjamin, another character who is his girlfriend. What a coincidence that both girlfriends had Porsches!

It’s a very beautiful image of the car which could have come out of a catalogue. The car actually appears earlier than this picture and we would suggest you keep your eyes on the background during one of the night scenes when Maverick and Penny are on the bike.

There’s another small Porsche as well and it’s on Maverick’s wrist. It’s not so clear what model it is but in 1986, many people noticed that Maverick wore a Porsche Design Chronograph which had a black PVD coating. It was on him all the time and fans wonder if it could be the same watch used again… after all, that would be a collectors’ item.

If you saw the original movie and remember it well, you will see many lines, gestures and actions that are recreated in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. In fact, these recreations can be seen right from the opening scenes and the movie also closes in the same way.

Bike fans will also remember that Maverick was on a Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja. Guess he didn’t keep the bike for 30 years and instead got a new one – the Kawasaki Ninja H2 (the carbon edition) – which has a supercharged 998 cc engine and is considered a ‘hyperbike’. As the trailers have shown, he again races along the road alongside the runway, seemingly racing with a fighter jet taking off.

*In 1986, Maverick has a Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja (above) and for the new movie, he has switched to the Ninja H2 hyperbike (below).*

For those who still don’t know what this new movie is about, the storyline continues from the original a few decades later. Maverick remains a captain and ‘despite the best efforts, refuses to die. He is recalled to train ‘the best of the best’ pilots at Top Gun for a secret and very dangerous mission. Just as he was a cocky pilot when he was a student at Top Gun in 1986, so too are those he has to train. But they also show professionalism and know that they have to put aside personal feelings when it comes to flying jets at over 1,500 km/h.

Top Gun: Maverick will start screening in Malaysian cinemas from Wednesday May 25, 2022.

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