Given its strength in EV technology, it’s not surprising that Nissan has announced a long-term commitment to the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship series. The carmaker, which joined the all-electric single-seater series in season 5 as the only Japanese manufacturer, will participate to the end of season 12 which will take place during 2025 and 2026.
“Nissan’s commitment to the Gen3 era of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship shows the strength of the all-electric racing series and its pursuit of success in the next phase. The new Gen3 cars will be faster and more powerful, and this constant evolution of racing performance that we continue to see in Formula E is great for the fans and the sport,” said Olivier and Gregory Driot, team principals of Nissan e.dams, added this joint statement:
The Gen3 era of the championship begins in season 9 – the 2022-23 season – and will feature even faster cars. Gen3 will bring performance and efficiency benefits including more powerful, lighter cars, faster charging and cost controls, all increasing the competitive and unpredictable racing Formula E has become known for.
In the first two seasons in Formula E, Nissan focused on its ’Phase One – road-to-track’ technical objectives, which took experience and learnings from the LEAF EV to develop the performance of the Nissan e.dams race car.
In its debut season, Nissan e.dams was the best qualifying team in the championship while, in its second season, the team powered to second place in the teams championship.
As the team races in the current 2020-2021 season 7 and looks toward the future, it embarks on ‘Phase Two – track-to-road’ of its technology transfer goals, where the technically fast-moving championship will help Nissan showcase features that aim to encourage consumer adoption of its EVs.
“We’ve achieved great results during our first two seasons and renewing our long-term commitment to Formula E is a key step,” said Tommaso Volpe, Nissan’s Global Motorsport Director. “We entered the sport with a ‘road-to-track’ technical transfer approach, and by extending our racing program through the Gen3 era, we have the opportunity to close the circle with ‘track-to-road’ technical transfer. We believe that, as one of the most global manufacturers involved in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, this sport is the perfect platform to promote our expertise in electrification and demonstrate our commitment to more sustainable mobility solutions.”
As part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations and the life-cycle of its products by 2050, Nissan intends to electrify all-new Nissan vehicle offerings by the early 2030s. The company aims to bring its expertise in transferring knowledge and technology between the racetrack and road for better electric vehicles for customers.
The latest Nissan LEAF EV
“Nissan’s vision for cars goes far beyond simply modes of transport,” said Ashwani Gupta, Nissan’s Chief Operating Officer. “We aim to design and build electric vehicles that transform the way communities connect and move, and inspire us all to work towards a sustainable society. For Nissan, Formula E helps us bring excitement, energy and the environment to the forefront as we deliver this vision of the future to an ever-growing, new, young and diverse audience.”
The first races of the 2021 season took place in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, as a double- header event at the end of February, where Formula E raced for the first time as an FIA World Championship. It was also Formula E’s first night race, with the cars racing under floodlights. Nissan e.dams took 14 team championship points away from the event.
In the early years of the Toyota Corolla, which was introduced in 1966, there were many bodystyles available. Besides the sedan (which was in 2-door and 4-door versions), there was a coupe, hardtop, liftback, stationwagon and even a MPV (in the 1990s). But after the 1990s, the number of variants diminished as volume became important and models that didn’t have sufficient demand had to be discontinued.
Back then in the 1990s, the SUV trend was just starting and MPVs were in great demand too, hence the MPV variant of the Corolla (called the Spacio) which was produced for a while. But in recent times, as the SUV trend continued going upwards, manufacturers began to look at how to offer such models without the high cost of developing new models. The solution lay in having a common platform and having a bodystyle with an SUV image and the requisite extra ground clearance.
Toyota decided that the Corolla family would get a totally new SUV variant which it has called the Corolla Cross. Like many recent new models, it also sits on the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) which has a lot of variability so engineers can put different model types on it. That saves Toyota a lot of money compared to the old days when a different platform had to be developed for each model.
In the case of the Corolla Cross, the TNGA platform has been configured for a higher ride height – which is expected of SUVs – but it has an inherently low centre of gravity too. This means that even though the car has extra ground clearance, its stability is still good and the highly rigid body enhances agility and ride comfort.
Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform
CBU import from Thailand
The Corolla Cross for Malaysia is imported from Thailand in CBU (Completely Built-Up) form but seeing how response has been even before it was launched, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has already started discussions with Toyota about having the model assembled locally as well. That might not be so soon as the plant near Klang, Selangor, has also to be prepared, and with local assembly, there is also a need to source some of the parts locally. So it may only be in 2022 that we see a locally-assembled Corolla Cross.
There are two variants being imported – the 1.8V and 1.8G, with the former being the better equipped variant. The price difference is RM10,000 but the standard items that come with the 1.8V are certainly more high-tech. We understand, however, that the 1.8V is not immediately available but bookings are accepted at dealerships.
Prices are for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia and do not include insurance premiums. 50% of sales tax is exempted until June 30, 2021.
Not just a taller Corolla
The design of the Corolla Cross is very different from that of the sedan and if you put the two cars next to each other, you won’t see similarities. This is probably the right approach as people buy a SUV for its image and just raising the ground clearance and adding cladding for the ‘rugged’ effect would be a mediocre effort.
Though it is shorter than the sedan (by 170 mm), the Corolla Cross has a wider (+ 45 mm) and taller (+ 185 mm) body. The wheelbase is also slightly shorter by 60 mm which does not seem to have impacted the cabin space noticeably. Ground clearance is, of course, more with a distance of 161 mm (+ 33 mm) from the underside to the road. However, that increase is well ‘camouflaged’, so the car doesn’t look like it is just ‘jacked up’. Additionally, with an 18° approach angle, it can also travel over rough terrain and steep inclines, as well as easily cross over taller speedbumps and mildly flooded stretches.
While the Corolla Cross 1.8G uses projector-type halogen headlamps, the 1.8V variant has Bi-LED units that give better illumination. The integrated Day Running Lights (DRLs)/clearance lamps of the 1.8V feature an intricate ‘light curtain’ graining which is also featured on the rear lighting units.
Both variants use LEDs for most of the lighting units, including the third brake light. Besides being energy-efficient, LEDs have advantages such as producing light that is closest to daylight, quicker light-up times, and having a much longer service life because they are more durable and resistant to vibrations.
Proven engine and CVT
The Corolla Cross uses the same engine type as the sedan, ie the proven 2ZR-FE 1.8-litre petrol DOHC 16-valve engine with Dual VVT-i. This engine produces 139 ps/172 Nm which goes through a 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic (CVT) only to the front wheels. There is no all-wheel drive (AWD) but most people don’t really care anyway. And for those who like to have AWD for enhanced grip and stability, systems such as traction control and vehicle stability control (both of which the Corolla Cross has) provide that.
Without AWD, the suspension layout is simple with the universal MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear. From extensive testing in ASEAN conditions, the engineers decided that large, highly durable rubber bushings would be better to allow the suspension to effectively cope with large undulations on the road surface, enhancing comfort.
The Corolla Cross 1.8G has 17-inch wheels with Bridgestone tyres (left), while the 1.8V has 18-inch wheels with Michelin tyres.
Toyota Safety Sense
Where active safety systems used to operate independently, many are now integrated and function cooperatively. Most manufacturers have adopted this approach and Toyota’s is called Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) which helps the driver avoid accidents. This has been introduced in some models already and the 2.0 version is installed in the Corolla Cross 1.8V.
TSS 2.0 makes use of a camera installed in the windscreen to scan the road ahead. the imagery is sent to a computer to analyse and determine if there is a dangerous situation. Additionally, a millimetre-wave radar signal from the grille is also used to monitor the road ahead.
Lightning-quick analysis of the data and imagery will determine if a collision with a vehicle or pedestrian (or other road-users) might occur. If the driver does not take appropriate action, the brakes will be activated automatically to reduce the vehicle’s speed and bring it to a quick stop. This is known as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and even if it does not fully prevent a collision (due to road conditions or the speed), AEB could still save you expensive repairs because the car would be slowed down earlier, reducing the force of the impact.
Radar transmitter in the grille (above) and camera at the top of the windscreen (left side in the picture below) constantly scan the road ahead and send data and imagery for Toyota Safety Sense to analyze. The lens to the right is for the Digital Video Recorder.
Besides the Pre-Crash System just explained, TSS also has Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and Automatic High Beam (AHB). These core technologies are complemented by other safety technologies such as Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Tyre Pressure Warning System (TPWS) and a 3D Panoramic View Monitor which helps in situational awareness all around the car.
The LDA system includes Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) which implements steering assistance to remain in the lane. The function can also operate on sharp curves and helps reduce vehicle swaying during straight line driving.
DRCC introduces drivers to semi-autonomous motoring as a safe gap will be maintained with a vehicle ahead at all times. This is done by automatically adjusting the speed, lowering it from the set cruising speed if necessary. With DRCC, long-distance motoring can be more enjoyable with less fatigue experienced. The system in the Corolla Cross doesn’t operate at very low speeds and that would be good to have in future.
Front Digital Video Recorder is a standard fitment.
For additional safety, Drive-Start Control is included to prevent sudden starting or unintended acceleration. This can occur if the wrong gear has been selected from PARK while the driver is pressing hard on the accelerator pedal. When such a condition is detected, a warning is flashed on the dashboard and engine output is immediately reduced to avoid an accident.
The other safety systems are present for both variants, such as ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). There is also an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) which activated the hazard warning lights automatically if sudden or strong braking occurs due to an emergency. The flashing lights will alert drivers behind so that they can take their own action to avoid a collision.
Besides the protection from the high-strength TNGA platform and structure, there are 7 airbags around the cabin (including one of the driver’s knees) and the seatbelts have pre-tensioners and force-limiters to maximise restraint. ISOFIX points are also available in the rear outer seats for installation of compatible childseats, which are now required by law.
ASEAN NCAP crash test
With such high safety standards, it’s not surprising that the Corolla Cross, as with many other Toyota models sold today, has achieved a maximum 5-star rating from ASEAN NCAP which evaluated the model with crash testing.
SUV outside, passenger car inside
While the exterior looks bear no resemblance to the sedan, the interior of the Corolla Cross is certainly more like a passenger car than the traditional SUV. It’s something which was pioneered by the original RAV4 25 years ago and got people interested in driving a SUV as it was just as easy and comfortable as their sedan.
The Corolla Cross continues with this concept and the extra height of the vehicle is not only used for ground clearance but also interior space, providing significantly better headroom than other competitor SUV models in the same class. The driver’s eyes are also higher up, giving a more commanding view which many like a SUV for.
The overall colour theme for the cabin is black with black leather upholstery for the seats. The driver’s seat for the 1.8V has power adjustment, which is convenient. At the rear, the backrest recline angle of 6° from the normal position makes for a more comfortable posture.
Instrumentation and infotainment are quite standard nowadays with a 4.2-inch colour Multi-Information Display between the meters providing the driver with travel information. The large 9-inch panel in the middle of the dashboard serves as the display for the audio and infotainment system, as well as the image from the rearview camera.
The system is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready so compatible smartphone apps can easily be transferred and accessed from the dashboard. Management of some functions can be done using switches on the steering wheel.
These days, most cars have keyless entry and pushbutton starting/stopping and the Corolla Cross is now exception. But a standout feature is the Power Back Door which has handsfree operation – by placing a foot under the rear bumper, the door will open and close automatically. It wasn’t that long ago when this feature was only found on much more expensive models, and now it is moving downwards. It’s also possible to open the rear door from inside the car.
Other equipment and features include automatic air-conditioning, USB ports, lots of cupholders and an extra-cost wireless charging pad option which can be specified at the time of purchase. The car comes with one Digital Video Recorder at the front and the owner can add a second one at the rear as well.
Over the past few years, UMWT has been including a Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) in its new models to enhance security. VTS tracks the vehicle’s position using GSM/GPS signals so if it is stolen, its location can be determined by a 24/7 Command Centre will locate it which will then inform relevant authorities to recover it. In the event there is an impact detected (suggesting an accident), the centre will inform emergency services to provide assistance at the vehicle’s location.
FIRST DRIVE IMPRESSIONS (by Chips Yap)
As mentioned earlier, the 1.8V is not available at this time so all the vehicles for our media drive were the 1.8G. Generally, the performance would be the same since both variants use the same engine. However, while the car we drove was fairly quiet already, the 1.8V should be even quieter because it has acoustic glass for the windscreen which cuts out a lot of external noise.
The cabin obviously has an open airy feel with sweeping dashboard line having the 9-inch display as the dominant centrepiece. It can accept apps from an iOS or Android device which expands its functionality.
The 3D Panoramic View Monitor is an interesting system that has different views of the vehicle which can be selected. The virtual images created from the cameras around the bodywork give the impression of seeing the Corolla Cross while standing on the outside. It’s a bit more sophisticated than the usual top-down views in other systems and will take a bit of getting used to. But once the driver becomes familiar with the imagery, he or she will find it to be quite useful during parking.
I really like the Power-Operated Boot Door with what I call a ‘Kick the Bumper’ system of operation. It’s a feature which you will want in every car you get after the Corolla Cross. Not so long ago, only luxury SUVs had this convenience and Toyota has somehow managed to bring the cost down to be able to offer it in a Corolla-class model as well.
The ride quality was very good, with the suspension soaks up the bumps easily without making the car feel unstable. The taller stance was virtually not perceived although I think that in my case, I am already used to it as I drive a SUV daily. But what matters is that even along twisty roads, like the one we went along around the Semenyih dam, the car remained stable and responded well to sudden manoeuvres.
While the engine is a familiar unit and its performance is similar to the one in the sedan with a smooth power flow and some punchiness when you push it hard, it is the CVT that has impressed me all along. Somehow, the Toyota engineers have been able to programme the characteristics to give a feel more like a conventional automatic transmission without the ‘rubber band’ behaviour. Response is good and supposed to be improved with some internal improvements.
I owned a number of Corollas before and I also had the first RAV4, which converted me to SUVs forever. The RAV4 provided an easy transition to the SUV world and the Corolla Cross is doing the same thing again. It’s actually the best of both worlds and I would say it has many of the good things of a SUV with the comfort and space of a sedan. The Corolla has for a long time been seen as ‘just another sedan’ but now, the Corolla Cross brings new interest to the family and clearly, it is the right type of car for these times.
Diana Danielle (above) and Danny Koo are the Toyota Corolla Cross Ambassadors and will be closely associated with the new SUV model in advertising and promotional activities. Both are former racers in the Vios Challenge One-Make Series, and lead active lives that the Corolla Cross has been designed to support. “Diana and Danny are celebrities well known to the Malaysian public,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. “We are happy to have them associated with the Corolla Cross. Diana has a bold personality and constantly breaks boundaries, which matches the Corolla Cross perfectly, while Danny reinvents his perspectives to go beyond his limitations – just like the way the Corolla Cross Reinvents the Rules.”
With the pandemic situation easing off (and hopefully headed that way), many new models are now making their debut in the Malaysian market and at TC Euro Cars, the Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy hot hatch is now in the showrooms.
This is the facelifted successor to the car that set a new record for the fastest front-wheel drive car around the Nurburgring circuit in 2019. Priced at RM326,476.61 (excluding insurance and with 50% of sales tax exempted until June 30, 2021), the latest Megane R.S. features cosmetic changes such as new full LED lighting units (with high-performance R.S. Vision) front and rear, a honeycomb radiator grille which incorporates R.S. double diamond logo, and 19-inch Jerez wheels featuring a diamond-cut finish with red borders.
The R.S. version can also be identified by the red Brembo brake calipers, wing-mounted air extractors, which optimise airflow through the wheelarches, rear bumper with a built-in diffuser and the iconic central exhaust, and the narrow roof spoiler. Inside, there’s exclusive R.S. upholstery, high-end materials, sophisticated finishes and distinctive details representative of the Renault Sport identity
Upgraded powerplant
The powerful 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine has also been upgraded and with turbocharging and direct injection, now produces up to 300 ps/420 Nm. This impressive output passes through a 6-speed EDC transmission on the way to the front wheels and the driver can make gear selection via paddle shifters at the steering wheel if preferred.
4-mode R.S. Drive and 4CONTROL
The shifting characteristics can be varied to suit driving conditions using the R.S. Drive mode which has four modes. There’s also Launch Control for a positive start using maximum output, and enable the car to get from standstill to 100 km/h within a claim 5.7 seconds.
The R.S. models are developed with the assistance of Renault Sport, an experience organisation which has been involved in F1 and other high-level motorsports. As such, its chassis in particular benefits from motorsport experience and in the case of the Megane R.S. 300 TROPHY, the Cup chassis features a Torsen mechanical Limited Slip Differential. For the 2021 model, there is new calibration which enables more precise entry to corners and improved traction when exiting corners.
The car also comes with 4CONTROL, a 4-wheel steering system that enhances agility through tight turns and improves cornering stability at higher speeds. While skilled drivers may not always like electronic aids, such systems allow less skilled drivers to explore the very high limits of cars like the Megane R.S. with more safety.
While the 4CONTROL 4-wheel steering ensures that the turning circle is not compromised by the differential, the use of bi-material brake discs shaves off 1.8 kgs of unsprung mass in each corner, making for razor sharp high-speed manoeuvring. In addition, rally-inspired technology is evident with the installation of 4 hydraulic compression stops on all shock absorbers. These maintain the car’s poise on bumpy roads and optimise tyre-ground contact for better grip.
The new Megane R.S 300 Trophy comes with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first). Customers have a choice of 5 colours options, with the signature Liquid Yellow and Orange Tonic costing an extra RM9,000. Besides purchasing with a Hire-Purchase loan, customers can op[t for TCEC’s Subscription plan with 1-year to 3-year terms.
Isuzu Motors Limited, Hino Motors, Ltd., and Toyota Motor Corporation today announced that they will form a new partnership in commercial vehicles with the aim of accelerate societal implementation and dissemination of CASE technologies and services, and to help address various difficulties facing the transportation industry as well as help achieve a carbon-neutral society. ‘CASE’ refers to new areas of Connected vehicles, Autonomous/Automated driving, Shared, and Electric.
The three companies intend to combine Toyota’s CASE technologies with the commercial vehicle foundations cultivated by Isuzu and Hino. Specifically, they plan to jointly work on the development of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), autonomous driving technologies, and electronic platforms centered on the domain of small commercial-purpose trucks.
Wide scope
While working together on BEVs and FCEVs to reduce vehicle costs, the three companies plan to advance infrastructure-coordinated societal implementation, such as by introducing FCEV trucks to hydrogen-based society demonstrations in Japan’s Fukushima Prefecture, and accelerate their dissemination initiatives.
In a joint press conference this afternoon, the leaders of Isuzu, Hino, and Toyota said they also plan to link their connected technology platforms to build a platform for commercial vehicles that can help solve customers’ problems. Through this platform, they intend to provide various logistics solutions that not only help improve commercial vehicle transport efficiencies but also contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
To promote their partnership, Isuzu, Hino, and Toyota are establishing Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation, a company for planning CASE technologies and services for commercial vehicles based on discussions among its three parent companies.
Going forward, Isuzu, Hino, and Toyota intend to deepen their collaboration while openly considering cooperation with other like-minded partners.
Capital partnership
In conjunction with this new development, Isuzu and Toyota have agreed on a capital partnership. Through acquisition of 39 million shares of Isuzu common stock, Toyota will hold a 4.6% stake in Isuzu, while Isuzu plans to acquire Toyota shares of the same value through a market purchase.
Hino Motors a subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation and one of 16 major companies of the Toyota Group. The 78-year old company originally made passenger cars as well but focussed on commercial vehicles after being acquired by Toyota in 1967.
Bentley Motors has revealed details of its new Continental GT Speed which will go on sale in mid-2021 and be the flagship of the Continental GT range. Presented as ‘the most dynamic road car in Bentley’s 101-year history and ultimate performance-focused interpretation of the world’s benchmark luxury Grand Tourer’, the new Continental GT builds on a long tradition of Speed variants, starting with the original in 2007. That first generation itself was inspired by the 3-Litre Speed models of the 1920s.
“The world’s most luxurious Grand Tourer is now truly more capable than ever before, with a new sportier edge which will appeal to performance-focused drivers,” declares Dr. Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for Engineering at Bentley Motors. “The Speed is the latest chapter in the Continental GT story, helping Bentley customers to create their own extraordinary journeys.”
New chassis technology
The pinnacle performance Continental GT features advanced chassis technology that includes a new Electronic All-Wheel Steering system and an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD) for a level of agility said to be unlike any other Bentley road car. The system is significantly more active on the GT Speed than it is on the Flying Spur, where its primary purpose is a reduction in turning circle and enhanced high-speed stability.
For the Active All-Wheel drive system, the traction control and torque distribution has been recalibrated in all driver modes to provide a noticeable character shift relative to the standard Continental GT. Maintaining Bentley’s philosophy of the vehicle feeling progressive and secure, yet still be dynamic, this approach rewards drivers of all abilities. To achieve this philosophy in BENTLEY and COMFORT mode, overall grip is balanced between the front and rear wheels; in SPORT, this mode has been calibrated with a more rear-biased torque–split in all driving scenarios.
Improved cornering dynamics and the extra grip provided by the new systems allows the driver to exit any corner with an increased level of precision and confidence. In turn, the car is able to extract the maximum performance from the available traction for powerful acceleration with composure from the apex.
Working alongside these systems are the key chassis technologies that deliver body control and ride comfort with no compromise to one another – namely Bentley’s 3-chamber active air suspension with adaptive damping, and Bentley Dynamic Ride – the 48V active anti-roll control system that Bentley pioneered on the Bentayga and third-generation Continental GT.
Depending on the mode, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System allows the driver to experience an even greater level of freedom before the Speed’s safety systems intervene to correct any anomalies. When switched to Dynamic mode, the ESC extends the freedom of the driver, allowing an experienced pilot to set and alter the cornering stance of the car at their discretion.
ESC can also be switched off, allowing a driver-focused experience previously only seen in Bentley’s racing machines. After utilising strong turn-in performance on-track, thanks to the All-Wheel Steering and eLSD, the driver can choose to balance throttle and steering to deliver effortless, progressive yaw angles.
To complement the extra capability of the chassis, a newly-engineered Carbon Ceramic brake system has been introduced as an option on the GT Speed. The carbon ceramic material saves over 33 kgs of weight (all of it un-sprung mass) and produces extremely low levels of brake dust.
659 ps W12 TSI engine
The new GT Speed is equipped with an uprated version of Bentley’s 6-litre W12 TSI engine, delivering 659 ps – a 4% increase (24 ps) over the current W12 model – whilst maintaining a massive 900 Nm of torque. Factory testing shows a top speed capability of 335 km/h) and 0-100 km/h time of 3.6 seconds. The dual-clutch, 8-speed transmission shift is twice as fast in SPORT mode as in the standard W12 model.
During the journey, the Variable Displacement system can shut down half of the engine’s 12 cylinders under certain conditions, with the transitions between the two being imperceptible. Intake and exhaust valves, fuel injection and ignition are all shut down on defined cylinders, with the engine running as a 6-cylinder for improved fuel efficiency.
Unique and luxurious cabin
The 4-person cabin of the new Continental GT Speed showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating the world’s finest automotive interiors. Handcrafted materials blend with unique trim and badging that are only available in the Speed and can be further personalised if desired. Bentley’s Diamond in Diamond quilting is included as standard, and Speed embroidered headrests distinguish the cabin of the most potent Continental.
The interior can be further personalised with a choice of 15 main and 11 secondary hide colours, as well as the use of leather in lieu of Alcantara for the Speed colour split. The centre console can be finished in new dark tint engine turned aluminium, bringing a geometrically perfect machined surface and a beautifully patterned finish. GT.
