Race starts at 4 pm in Azerbaijan/8 pm in Malaysia
With the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping across Europe this time last year, the 2021 Formula 1 World Championship had to be suspended. Many venues could not be used due to health restrictions and Baku in Azerbaijan was one of them, so there was no Azerbaijan Grand Prix for the first time since 2017 when the city was included as a venue for one of the rounds.
Baku, like Monaco, is also on a coast, in this case that of the Caspian Sea. Its City Circuit, however, could not present a more different street race challenge compared to Monaco. With a long, high-speed section parallel to the seafront, it is one of the easiest street circuits for overtaking.
Two tracks in one
One of the best ways to describe the layout of the Baku City Circuit is that it’s two tracks in one: half Monaco, half Monza. The twisty Old City section has a similar vibe to the streets of Monte Carlo, while the long straights and big braking zones are a characteristic it shares with the Italian Grand Prix venue.
Most street circuits don’t tend to register the same level of maximum g-forces as traditional tracks and Baku is no different. Because of these lower forces, it isn’t a demanding race physically for the drivers, as there is less strain on their neck. There are also more straights for them to do switch changes and there is a bit more margin for error with the barriers, so it is less mentally demanding too.
But like street circuits, especially those in old cities like Baku, there are unforgiving walls of the old buildings and the surface has low grip. Unlike in 2019, Pirelli has made a decision to go one step softer on the compound range, providing the softest combination of tyres for this weekend. In 2019, the top three teams ran near-identical one-stop races, and no one used that season’s Hard compound in the race.
Because the corners don’t generate as much energy as other tracks, the drivers are more dependent on brake heat to keep the tyres warm. However, because of this, the softer tyre compounds are more sensitive to overheating and breaking apart, so it’s a tough balance to find between keeping the tyres warm and not overheating them.
The championship so far
After a forgettable time at Monaco, Lewis Hamilton has been overtaken by Max Verstappen who is now 4 points in the lead after 5 rounds. The two drivers each have almost double the points of Lando Norris, who is in third position. As for the Constructors Championship, the Monaco win also moved the Red Bull Racing team to the top but with just 1 point difference. 60 points further back from Mercedes-AMG is the McLaren F1 team.
For the 0.003% of the world’s population who are classified as ‘ultra-rich’, buying cars is no longer just about personalization to the highest degree. That may make the car unique but there may still be many of the same model that others can own. These days, some manufacturers are selling cars so exclusive that they are true ‘one-offs’ which no one else can own.
The Bugatti La Voiture Noire is an example, and claimed to be the most exclusive model in the world. The design for a customer was first presented 2 years ago and now, the hypercar has been completed and can soon be delivered.
“With the completed La Voiture Noire, we are demonstrating once again that we develop the world’s most sophisticated hyper sportscars,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti. “With its use of visible carbonfibre in jet black, the coupe’s breathtaking sculpture looks especially elegant. It’s a veritable grand tourer that went from being a vision to a reality – a unique project which stands for Bugatti’s full creativity and artistry.”
Historically significant name
The name ‘La Voiture Noire’ will be familiar to Bugatti enthusiasts. Ettore Bugatti’s son, Jean, developed and drove one of just four Type 57 SC Atlantics produced, a car which was described as the ‘most perfect’ and the fastest automobile of its time. Jean named his model ‘La Voiture Noire’ – the black car. Jean Bugatti had a real flair for shapes and developed saloons and coupes of dramatic beauty. With the Atlantic, he had created a masterpiece.
1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic
That car disappeared without a trace shortly before the Second World War. It is now considered the automotive equivalent of the Amber Room, one of the greatest mysteries of the automotive world, and as a vehicle of indescribable value.
Reinterpreting the Atlantic
The idea for this homage came to Design Director Achim Anscheidt more than 20 years ago but years passed until it became possible to realize this unusual project. “We were rather in awe of the idea of developing the La Voiture Noire. No other vehicle in the long history of Bugatti has acquired the same legendary status as the Type 57 SC Atlantic and has become so synonymous with the brand. We had a great deal of respect for this historical responsibility as well as for the customer,” explained Anscheidt.
For the reinterpretation, the designers had to cast their minds back and seek to understand the automobile, the bygone times, the technology, the materials, and the creators – and then update this work to the 21st century.
Minimalist coupe
The 21st century La Voiture Noire is a minimalist coupe, much like the Atlantic back then, thanks to reducing the essentials, reduced lines, and the absence of a large and dominant rear wing. The designers reinterpreted the spirit of the historical car and developed a specific shape stylistically and technically speaking. This includes the dorsal seam down the centerline, the extended front section, the clear lines, and the romanticism of the rear.
With great attention to detail, they created a bodywork with a unique surface finish – visible carbon fiber with a clearcoat known as ‘Black Carbon Glossy’ which generates virtually no reflections. The bumpers are integrated gently into the bodywork while the windscreen appears to merge with the side windows like a helmet visor.
The lack of disruptive lines means the surface appears to have been cast in one piece – nothing interrupts the visual flow. This transforms the vehicle’s attitude from a hyper sportscar to a grand tourer. A unique sense of drama is generated by reducing the essentials and the teasing out of this essence of beauty and elegance from the surfaces.
Extraordinary details
In addition, it boasts some extraordinary details. There are more than 25 individually milled lighting elements per side in the headlamps – an immense amount of work, even for a one-off. Each and every cell of the 3D-printed front grille has been refined and examined to ensure they all look perfect together.
The rear is dominated by an elegant rear light which, for the first time, features a single-piece surround with no joints. Six individual tailpipes serve as a nod to the car’s well-known template. A newly developed parametric design at the front and rear means the body parts appear to be sealed, but they are actually air-permeable.
The interior is entirely with grain leather in Havana Brown, basing its choice on the historical model. This natural material contrasts with specially polished and turned aluminium inlays in various locations on the centre console, the centre spine, and the doors. The driving modes can be changed by means of a sophisticated rosewood switch.
During development, every new part had to pass strict Bugatti testing and quality procedures, was measured, and was put through its paces time and again. Extensive simulations were followed by testing in the wind tunnel and on test benches, and then on test tracks and proving grounds covering the entire range of speeds. Modifications to the bodywork, cooling, thermodynamics, wheels, and wheelbase result in new balance which requires perfect coordination.
And what’s the price of having the only car of its type in the world? Bugatti says that it cost the customer 11 million euros (about RM55.1 million). Yes, you would have to be among that 0.003%…
June is here and for this new month, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has special deals for those shopping for a new Volkswagen Passat or a Tiguan Allspace Highline.
Those who make use of the eShowroom will enjoy an increase of RM1,500 savings on the Passat family and RM1,000 on the Tiguan Allspace Highline. Both the Passat Elegance and its sportier sibling, the Passat R-Line comes with exclusive savings of RM5,000, on top of ongoing promotions.
For SUV fans, take advantage of eShowroom savings of RM4,500 on top of the ongoing promotion for the Tiguan Allspace Highline which can seat seven comfortably.
Those who want to enhance their Tiguan Allspace Highline with accessories can enjoy a 15% discount when purchasing the new accessories package for the Highline and R-Line variants. This special package, priced at RM6,134 (total savings of RM1,082), consists of scuff plates, aluminium pedal caps (1 set), load edge protector, rear mudflaps (1 set), running board kit and a luggage compartment liner.
Alternatively, the Tiguan R-Line accessories package is now priced at RM4,464 (savings of RM787). This package consists of load edge protector, running board kit and a luggage compartment liner. Bookings to purchase the kit and future installation appointments can be arranged by calling any authorised Volkswagen service centre.
Aftersales 0% interest payment plan
VPCM doesn’t forget its loyal and supportive customers when it has promotions. From June 1, owners can opt for financial flexibility with a 0% interest-free instalment plan when paying for service or repair work via credit card.
Available at selected authorised Volkswagen service centres, the payment plan can be spread over 6 or 12 months, depending on the selected bank. Owners are advised to check with their preferred dealer on the specific terms and conditions.
Volkswagen Service campaign extended
If you still have taken advantage of the Aftersales Service campaign, the good news is that VPCM has extended it till the June 30, 2021, so more owners can enjoy the benefits. Those who send in their vehicles for service will be get 20% off Volkswagen genuine engine oil, and those who spend a minimum of RM1,200 will receive a complimentary carcare kit that consists of wax polish, wax shampoo, glass polish, plastic care, and leather care solutions in 50 ml bottles.
Under the ‘Safe Hands’ initiative, Volkswagen service centres nationwide follow strict guidelines which includes contactless vehicle acceptance, video walkthroughs, sanitisation before and after service, and cashless payments with e-invoicing.
Owners are advised to book their service appointments online and select free pick-up and delivery to have their Volkswagen serviced without having to leave the comfort of their homes. Dealers operating hours are available on the website at www.volkswagen.com.my.
The American market was always a strong market for the Toyota Supra, to the extent that some generations were born at Calty, its advanced design centre in California. When it made its return after an absence of 17 years, it was the North American International Auto Show that was chosen for its global debut.
So the American market is special to Toyota, especially where the Supra is concerned, and to recognise that, Toyota USA has developed a limited edition of the GR Supra just for the market. It’s the most exclusive 5th generation Supra to date and only 600 units will be available.
Carbonfibre treatment
The highlight of the GR Supra A91-CF Edition, as it is known, is a carbonfibre front splitter and larger canards, with carbonfibre side rockers define the lower edge along the sides. The carbonfibre treatment (hence ‘CF Edition’) continues at the rear end, with a duckbill spoiler catching the air up top and lower canards doing so down below.
Wind tunnel-tested
The aerodynamic features are not just for looks. Extensive testing has been done in a wind tunnel to shape them to improve downforce and stability, especially when on the racetrack. The performance should be almost similar to the other GR Supra as it uses the same 3-litre 6-cylinder engine.
Additionally, unique 19-inch wheels sport a matte-black texture that complements A91-CF Edition’s available matte-gray Phantom paint colour. The other technical specs are the same too, with an 8-speed Z-F8 transmission, Adaptive Variable Sport suspension and active rear sport differential. The front brakes are from Brembo, with red calipers.
Exclusive interior trim
The interior, with a red-and-black theme, also has some exclusive features that include carbonfibre interior trim. The Alcantara-and-leather-trimmed cabin includes red stitching details with a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and sport pedals.
In Malaysia, the model is officially available through selected authorised dealers with the GR Garage. It is priced from RM589,987 (with sales tax exemption, without insurance). Visit toyota.com.my for more information or to locate a GR Garage showroom in Malaysia.
After a year’s absence, Formula One cars will once again speed around the Baku City Circuit for the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. This will be the fifth time in 6 years that the event has been run at the same venue along the coast of the Caspian Sea.
Demanding on brakes
It is the second street circuit to be used so far, after Monaco two weeks ago. Being a street circuit with narrow roads and tight turns, the track is classified as one of the most demanding tracks for brakes. On a scale of 1 to 5, Brembo engineers give it a 4 on the difficulty index, the same as the Sakhir Circuit in Bahrain.
The layout includes four 90° corners at the start which are highly demanding on the brakes, followed by other turns where the angle changes continuously and, consequently, so does the use of the brakes. The track has several technical corners like Turn 8 near the old town fortifications where there is no room for error.
Carbonfibre + aluminium
In addition to aluminium-lithium calipers and carbonfibre discs, Brembo also supplies F1 teams with brake pads, also made from carbonfibre. There are 5 different types for the front and 2 variations for the rear. They vary according to the specifications of the material used, the internal ventilation and the geometry.
The length of each pad ranges from 160 to 190 mm and the surface area from 50 to 90 sq. cm. while the weight varies from 150 to 300 grams. The pads have a friction coefficient of 0.5 and the operating temperature is the same as the discs. Both have very high thermal conductivity since they are in direct contact and made from similar materials.
20 seconds of braking per lap
Over the 6 kms of circuit with 11 braking zones, the brakes are used for just under 20 seconds per lap. This is twice as much as on the Imola track and 1.2 seconds more than Monaco. Despite this, at Baku, the load on the brake pedal from start to finish is lower, 53.5 metric tons.
In 5 of the 11 braking sections, the load does not even reach 90 kgs; deceleration is just 3.8g and braking lasts for 1.86 seconds. In 4 braking sections, on the other hand, the brake system is in use for over 2.13 seconds even if the load on the brake pedal reaches a peak of 166 kgs and does not exceed 140 kgs in the other cases.
5.5g right after the starting line
Of the 11 braking sections of the Baku City Circuit, 4 are classified as very demanding on the brakes, another 4 are of medium difficulty, and the remaining 3 are light. The most challenging one for the brake system is the first corner where the cars arrive at 334 km/h and then have to slow down to 125 km/h within just 1.85 seconds. To do this, drivers apply a load of 131 kgs on the brake pedal and as the car decelerates, there will be a force of 5.5g as they cover a distance of 107 metres.
2021 for the auto industry started low but as the first quarter progressed, sales volumes rose. However, with the second quarter, it appears that the market is going into a downturn. By Proton’s estimate, the May Total Industry Volume (TIV) of new vehicles registered fell by around 20%. While the Movement Control Order (MCO) may have had some effect, but shortages of chips – vital components for the many electronic systems in modern cars – have been slowing down output from the assembly plants.
For Proton, after seeing strengthening sales with each month, it reports that its May volume was down 37.1% from April. The Malaysian carmaker sold 9,440 units (some of which were exported) and with this volume, its estimated market share would be 20.3%.
Up to the end of May, the cumulative volume reached 57,283 units which translates to a market share estimated at 23.5% and an increase of 2.4% over the same period in the previous year.
As with the previous month, the X50 and X70 continued to lead their segments by a considerable margin. 1,899 units of the smaller SUV model were delivered in May while the X70 had 1,523 new owners. This brings the cumulative total of 3,422 units for the domestic as well as export markets.
Exports reach new 98-month high
Meanwhile, Proton’s overseas sales continue to gain momentum despite international markets going through varying degrees of lockdown. With 669 units comprising the Saga, X50 and X70 exported in May, the company’s international sales division recorded its best month since March 2013. As a result, total export sales for 2021 are now less than 100 units behind the total for the whole of last year.
“Car sales in Malaysia dipped in May due to factors such as chip shortages and the implementation of MCO in the middle of the month. Despite most industry players having healthy order books, most brands struggled to meet demand. For Proton, the numbers were high enough to retain second overall in the sales table and we also received a welcome boost from our export division who set a 98-month high despite restrictions on international shipping,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.
Focusing on the future
With the full lockdown in effect (tentatively until June 14), all Proton sales outlets have to be closed. However, its authorised service centres are allowed to operate. Proton owners are requested to make a prior appointment before going to the service centre (which should be within 10 kms of their home address).
The company will also be considering utilising the enforced break to retool its sales plan for the remainder of 2021. It aims to future-proof its business against regulatory changes and external factors such as the coronavirus.
“2020 proved to the world that business as usual can be disrupted without warning. To remain competitive in an unpredictable environment, Proton, along with its vendors and dealers, need to have the flexibility to pivot quickly to take advantage of unexpected opportunities. As such, we will intensify our efforts to implement a framework to meet upcoming regulations locally and internationally which is vital for future growth,” Encik Roslan said.
“We are also finalising our model launch plans for the rest of this year. The current MCO will push some of these dates back, but Proton remains committed to meeting our launch targets and creating some excitement for our customers in 2021,” he added.
