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Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N demonstrated its prowess at the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, setting new benchmarks in the Electric Modified and Production SUV/Crossover categories. This event underscored Hyundai’s commitment to launching special electric vehicle (EV) models and participating in prestigious motorsport events.

Record-Setting Performance

Hyundai fielded two specially prepared Ioniq 5 N TA Spec (Time Attack) models and one production-spec Ioniq 5 N for the 20km climb. The specially prepared models showcased significantly enhanced performance compared to the stock version.

  • Ioniq 5 N TA Spec:
    • Driver: Dani Sordo, a World Rally Championship (WRC) driver
    • Performance: Completed the climb in 9:30.852, setting a new record in the Electric Modified class and winning the exhibition class.
  • Second Ioniq 5 N TA Spec:
    • Driver: Randy Pobst
    • Performance: Finished the climb in 9:55.551, trailing Sordo by 25 seconds.
  • Production-Spec Ioniq 5 N:
    • Driver: Ron Zaras, a rookie driver
    • Performance: Completed the climb in 10:49.267, making it the fastest electric production SUV/crossover at Pikes Peak.

Another production-spec Ioniq 5 N, driven by stunt driver Paul Dallenbach, was also set to compete. However, Dallenbach sustained injuries during practice and could not participate in the race. Despite this, he achieved a certified time of 10:33.86 in pre-race testing, setting high expectations.

Enhancements

The Ioniq 5 N TA Spec featured several modifications to boost its performance:

  • Increased Power Output: Enhanced compared to the stock version.
  • New Shocks: Improved handling and stability.
  • Slick Tires: Provided superior grip and performance.
  • Motorsport-Derived Brakes: Enhanced stopping power for the demanding climb.

Future of Hyundai EV Motorsports

Hyundai confirmed its intentions to continue developing and launching special specification models, such as the Ioniq 5 N eN1 Cup Car racer and the Ioniq 5 N TA Spec. This aligns with Hyundai’s strategy to expand its presence in EV motorsports and showcase the high performance of its mass-produced vehicles.

Hyundai’s success at Pikes Peak not only highlights the capabilities of the Ioniq 5 N but also sets the stage for further advancements in EV technology and motorsport achievements.

A recent case involved a single mother who was scammed when her used Toyota Vios broke down a week after purchase. Here’s what went wrong and how to avoid similar issues:

  • Misrepresentation: The car was claimed to be a 2014 model but was actually a 2013 model. Always verify the vehicle’s year of manufacture.
  • Lack of Warranty: The seller refused responsibility after the sale. Always ensure you have a written warranty.
  • High Fees and Interest Rates: The seller imposed exorbitant fees and a high-interest rate. Verify and negotiate all fees and financing terms before signing.

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduces two new variants of the Mercedes-Benz GLB compact SUV: the GLB 200 and GLB 250 4MATIC. With its powerful proportions and numerous innovations, the redesigned GLB is poised to attract even more customers.

Mercedes Benz GLB 200

Exterior Features

  • Design Updates: The GLB 200 features a redesigned front bumper with visual underbody protection, an SUV radiator grille with four horizontal louvres, and a Progressive Line exterior. The GLB 250 4MATIC sports an AMG Line exterior with a radiator grille that has single louvres and chrome inserts, an AMG front apron with a front splitter, and an AMG rear apron with visible tailpipe trim in high-gloss black.
  • Night Package: Available for both variants, this package includes high-gloss black trim parts, including the radiator shell louvres, front and rear apron trim elements, roof railing, exterior mirror housing, beltline and window line trim strips, and simulated underguard.
  • Lighting: The GLB features new full-LED headlights and rear lights, with Adaptive Highbeam Assist included in the LED High Performance headlamps.
  • Wheels: The GLB 200 comes with 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, while the GLB 250 4MATIC has 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.
  • Colour Options: The range of exterior colors has been expanded to include a new Spectral Blue Metallic paint.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 4M

Interior Features

  • Seating and Space: The GLB can accommodate up to seven occupants, offering high practicality and variability. The GLB 200 features ARTICO man-made leather upholstery, while the GLB 250 4MATIC offers a combination of ARTICO man-made leather and MICROCUT microfibre.
  • Displays and Infotainment: Both variants come with freestanding 10.25-inch wide-screen displays for the instrument cluster and multimedia screens. The latest generation of the MBUX infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Design Elements: The interior includes round air vents in a turbine look, a new multifunction sports steering wheel (leather in GLB 200, Nappa leather in GLB 250 4MATIC), and a Star-pattern trim (backlit in GLB 250 4MATIC) that interacts with ambient lighting.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Additional USB-C ports, increased USB charging power, illuminated USB ports, comfort seats, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control enhance the interior experience.

Safety and Technology

  • Safety Features: Both variants come equipped with Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Active Brake Assist, and a Parking Package with a reverse camera. The KEYLESS-GO Comfort package, EASY-PACK tailgate, and GUARD 360° Vehicle protection are also included.
  • Exclusive GLB 250 Features: The GLB 250 4MATIC includes 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an additional 48-volt electrical system for the belt-driven starter generator. This system provides an additional 10kW of power for faster acceleration, low-vibration and low-noise engine starting, coasting with the engine off, and energy recuperation during braking and acceleration.

Pricing

  • Mercedes-Benz GLB 200: RM290,888 (on the road without insurance, with 10% Sales Tax for Peninsular Malaysia).
  • Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC: RM341,888 (on the road without insurance, with 10% Sales Tax for Peninsular Malaysia).

A toddler was trapped inside a Tesla Model Y in Scottsdale, Arizona, this week when the car’s 12-volt battery died, rendering the vehicle’s electronic systems and locks inoperable. With temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, Renee Sanchez and her 20-month-old granddaughter found themselves in a perilous situation on their way to the Phoenix Zoo.

Incident Details

  • Situation: After securing her granddaughter in the child seat and closing the door, Sanchez discovered that her Tesla wouldn’t open, neither with her phone key nor card key.
  • Response: Sanchez tried all possible methods to open the car but eventually had to call 911.

Firefighter Involvement

  • Initial Response: Firefighters initially expressed concern about gaining access to the Tesla, known for its electronic locks and unique emergency release mechanisms.
  • Action Taken: Firefighters used an axe to break the window, taping it first to prevent glass from scattering, and rescued the child, who was understandably distressed by the commotion.

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E-hailing drivers and delivery riders face numerous challenges in their line of work, including adverse weather conditions and heavy traffic. However, for some, the job also comes with the troubling experience of sexual harassment, as reported by NST.

 Personal Accounts of Harassment

  1. Subhan, a 24-year-old e-hailing driver, recounts an incident where a male customer offered him a substantial tip and made inappropriate requests:

– Incident: The customer gave Subhan an RM50 tip and asked him to visit his house after work, offering more money to shave his beard.

– Response: Subhan politely declined, mentioning that his girlfriend liked his beard.

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The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living has announced that applications for the subsidised diesel control system (SKDS) will now receive immediate approvals. The Minister, Armizan Mohd Ali, made the announcement and emphasised that letters of approval will be issued promptly, according to FMT. This will enable transport companies to quickly apply for fleet cards from the fuel companies of their choice.

Eligible Vehicles for Subsidised Diesel

The SKDS is applicable to a wide range of land transport vehicles. The 33 eligible types include:

  • School buses
  • Express buses
  • General cargo lorries
  • Bottled drinks lorries
  • Refrigerated lorries
  • Luton lorries
  • Prime movers
  • Panel/window vans

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