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New Audi RS 3 LMS model for customer racing around the planet

Audi Sport has unveiled the second generation of its successful RS 3 LMS model, with a season of testing ahead before going into production and being ready for customers at the end of 2021. The second generation of the entry-level touring car has been improved in many areas to offer more benefit to customers.

The RS 3 LMS, which has been available since the end of 2016, has made 3,105 appearances in a total of 1,051 races around the world to date. On average, there were almost three RS 3 LMS cars on the grid in each race. This is impressive considering that Audi has not been directly involved, with the exception of a 2-year program in the FIA WTCR in 2018 and 2019.

In the four years since its launch, the racing car has collected a total of 764 podium places in Africa, North and South America, Asia, Australia and Europe, including 279 overall wins. This is a win rate of 26.5% in an extremely tough competition in which TCR race cars from up to 14 manufacturers compete. It was considered the global ‘TCR Model of the Year’ in 2018.

More racing character
The second generation presents itself with new developments in all areas that serve two goals: To make the near-production entry-level even better and to optimize customer benefits in all areas. Despite this, the model remains inexpensive to buy and maintain, offers an even higher level of safety and, with up to 340 bhp available.

Visually, the second generation differs significantly from its predecessor. At 1.95 metres, it still meets the maximum width defined in the regulations, but the body extensions are integrated into the contours in a more harmonious and aerodynamically favorable way than before. The front apron incorporates the air intakes as part of a significantly revised cooling concept for the engine and brakes. The rear wing, suspended from the rear for the first time, completes the optimized aerodynamics of the TCR racing car.

New engine generation
For the new RS 3 LMS, the fourth generation of the 2-litre 4-cylinder EA888 engine replaces the predecessor series. The engine block and cylinder head, crank drive, valve train, intake manifold, fuel injection and the new turbocharger remain absolutely standard in the racing car. Only the valve cover breather with its oil separator differs from the standard component, as does the exhaust system. Also, the standard engine management system from Magneti Marelli specified by the regulations is new.

The adoption of the engine from volume production has proved highly successful in TCR racing. In many cases, Audi’s power units already achieved tens of thousands of racing kilometres in the previous generation in the hands of the customers. Together with the standardized hardware, this guarantees transparency and equal opportunities for all manufacturers.

Benchmarks in safety
No other TCR touring car offers as many optional safety components as are on board as standard in the RS 3 LMS. The roll-cage consists of steel tubes that add up to just under 25.8 metres in length. A 6-point safety belt serves as restraint system for the driver.

The Audi Sport Protection Seat, unique in the TCR class, with its robust construction and elaborate upholstery offers maximum accident safety. For better occupant protection in the event of a side impact, it is moved closer toward the centre of the car. Optionally available seat-wrapping safety nets on the right and left provide additional protection for the driver.

The standard roof hatch facilitates recovery of the driver after accidents. It allows the helmet to be gently removed upward and, if necessary, a rescue corset (Kendrick Extrication Device) to be inserted vertically from above to stabilize the driver’s spine.

For the first time, the rear window in every car is made of polycarbonate ex factory at no extra charge. This material reduces weight and is extremely impact-resistant. The safety fuel tank complies with FIA FT3 regulations and has a capacity of 100 litres. A fire extinguishing system completes the safety equipment.

Improved ergonomics in the cockpit
The cockpit is even more driver-oriented and easier to operate. The steering wheel features a control panel specified for TCR purposes. In the centre console, 12 functions are ergonomically optimized and logically grouped in a clearly arranged keypad. The ignition and various light functions can be activated there, as can the cockpit fan or the optional windshield heating. The brake balance and, if necessary, the fire extinguishing function are also within easy reach below the centre console.

Adaptable chassis
The McPherson design on the front axle makes it possible to implement changes to the kinematics faster than ever before. Whereas the previous bolting system always required a chassis measurement for changes, spacer components known as shims can now be inserted in the control arm and track rod in a matter of minutes. The track rods are standard on the 4-link rear axle to achieve bump steer effects. They support the agility of the car when turning in.

“Our new Audi RS 3 LMS thus takes on a great and responsible legacy,” says Chris Reinke, Head of Audi Sport customer racing. “The focus of our development goals for our latest model was on the customers. Whether it’s about running times or setup options, safety or cockpit ergonomics: we want to offer the teams a car that’s even more of a racing car than before, that has many practical advantages in everyday use and that can be operated economically thanks to long running times.”

Fuel Price Updates For February 6 – February 12, 2021

Classic Skoda models reimagined for the 21st century

A car model can usually be in production for up to 10 years, though it is usually around 5 or 6 years today. With each model change, the design will evolve in tune with trends and consumer tastes. Only very few models – like the Volkswagen Beetle – could last decades unchanged. Eventually, the discontinued models fade away, but some are also remembered and collectors preserve them as they are special in one way or another.

Skoda, with a history of 125 years, has obviously produced many models and some have been significant. As part of the Czech carmaker’s 125th anniversary celebrations, a group of designers from across the brand have re-imagined some classic models and repurposed them for the modern era.

They picked 5 of the most iconic models and came out with designs of what those models would look like if they were to be done today, in the 21^st century. These are model that defined the look and feel of Czech design and each one chosen is a personal favourite of the designer responsible.

Skoda has no specific plans to develop any of the designs, but the project gave the team inspiration from the past, the present and future environments.

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VOITURETTE
This design takes inspiration from the brand’s first-ever production car, the Voiturette A. Created by Yuhan Zhang – a member of the interior design team at Skoda – the Voiturette study is an open-top 2-seater carriage designed for use as a fully autonomous tourist car for the streets of Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.

The interior features a dramatic curved information panel while the wraparound seat takes its inspiration from the single seat unit fitted to the 1905 original. Commenting on her design, Zhang explained: “I wanted to make a connection between the history of Skoda and beauty of Prague. There is a big display in the car presenting a description of the sights as you go, but it could also show passengers the history of Skoda.”

1203 CAMPER
Another iconic model to get a dramatic makeover is the 1203 van, which has been transformed into a 21st century campervan. The brainchild of interface designer Daniel Hajek, the 1203 formed the backbone of Czech industry through the 1970s, becoming the default choice for trade, governments and the emergency services. Production ran from 1968 until the late 1990s.

The 21st century version imagined by Hajek features an electric drivetrain that allows for even greater space inside, along with a pop-up roof and all the practical touches found in today’s Skodas.

In terms of exterior design, the modern 1203 Camper features a number of touches that combine old with new. “I thought long and hard about how to reference the original’s round lights without them being too retro,” explained Hajek. “That’s why there’s just a hint of some curves here, but otherwise the light signature is new and bold.”

FELICIA CABRIOLET
The 1959 Felicia provided interior designer Martin Leprince with the starting point for his design makeover. Like the open-top original, the 21st century one is a masterclass in design elegance – wrapping itself around the passenger compartment while maximising exposure to the elements.

While working on the project Leprince spent hours with an original example kept at the Skoda museum. Among the many details he admired was the wraparound windscreen – and set about updating the look for his new version. As the design shows, the Felicia study has a ‘floating’ windscreen that hovers a few centimetres above the body and curves inwards to serve as the instrument panel and infotainment display.

“I studied glass statues, and with the help of photographs and pictures I tried to come up with a way to draw a 3D glass object so that the whole was comprehensible and looked realistic. That kept me busy for quite a few days,” he explained.

POPULAR MONTE CARLO and 130RS
Sporting glory was the inspiration behind the final pair of re-imagined Skoda classics. Interior designer Ljudmil Slavov chose to recreate the brand’s classic Popular Monte Carlo, while fellow stylist Aymeric Chertier opted to update the 130RS coupe.

“The Popular Monte Carlo is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, and I found its history fascinating as well. It is incredibly elegant and tasteful,” said Slavov. As part of his makeover, the Bulgarian-born designer opted to give the car a dramatic new roadster look. Slavov also chose to replace the traditional centre speedo with a floating hologram and a wraparound screen.

The reborn 130RS (above) by contrast, is more recognisable as an homage to the original. “I wanted to refresh the original car, not change it,” stressed Chertier. “I retained its essence and characteristic lines and added certain details that we know from modern WRC cars, for example,” the designer said, explaining the retro feel combined with the distinctive muscular shapes of his car.

Proton sees second MCO affecting new vehicle sales

*To know more about promotions at BHPetromart, visit www.bhpetrol.com.my.*

Proton is usually the first to provide an overview of their sales for the previous month, and for the first month of the new year, they have reported a drop of 29.9% in sales compared to January 2020. During the month, the carmaker delivered 5,964 units and with its estimate that the Total Industry Volume for the month will be slightly above 32,000 units, that means a market share of 18.5%, about 1% less compared to the same month last year.

Proton points out that the overall figures are a reflection of supply not being able to meet demand rather than a reduction in bookings. Nevertheless, it is clear that there are economic effects on various industries and consumer confidence.

*The New Normal at Proton outlets where Standard Operating Procedures are observed by the public and staff.*

Second MCO slows down sales
“January was a difficult month for Malaysia’s automotive industry. Hopes were high that the momentum built at the end of 2020 would be carried forward, especially after the announcement of PENJANA incentives remaining available until the end of June this year. Unfortunately, the second MCO (Movement Control Order) announcement put a damper on those hopes,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.

“Still, Proton, as well as the rest of the industry, is in full support of all measures the government has in place to control the rate of infection. The safety of all Malaysians needs to remain as the main priority and companies need to pivot in order to achieve their goals in a changed market environment,” he said.

“Measures like the MCO have naturally affected the number of customers coming to showrooms, but we can receive bookings online helping to boost our sales,” he added.

*Bestselling Proton model in the first month of 2021.*

The Saga started the year as the bestselling model with 2,583 units delivered. The two SUV models – the X70 and X50 SUV twins saw lower volumes of 892 units and 1,082 units, respectively. To date, 4,809 units of the X50 have been delivered since its launch at the end of October last year.

Effect on production volume
While Proton’s order bank remains healthy with orders carried over from the end of last year, the company is still working hard for supply to catch up to demand. As an industry that depends on a global supply chain, automotive companies are acutely affected by delays to vendors that have a knock-on effect to their production lines.

“However, our supply lines have been disrupted over the last few months by the coronavirus making it difficult to ensure a steady flow of parts needed to build our cars. It’s something all car manufacturers have been facing for the past year but we are hopeful that with the arrival of a vaccine things will stabilise by the middle of the year,” Encik Roslan said.

Product launch plans remain
Despite the delays, Proton intends to pursue its product launch plans for 2021 as the company strives for more sales growth both domestically and abroad. “For now, Proton will stick to its 2021 product launch schedule. We have an exciting series of improved products in the pipeline while the Proton X50 will now be able to establish its standing in the market by benefitting from a full year of sales,” he said.

New Ford F-150 Raptor extends extreme off-road capability

Malaysians know the Ford Ranger Raptor as the most extreme Ranger ever sold in the region. Developed with assistance from Ford Performance, the pick-up truck has the performance to go with its macho looks. Its name was derived from a variant of the F-Series which was introduced in 2009 for desert racing, eventually being used to represent the brand’s high-performance trucks.

With the F-Series now in its 14^th generation (since June last year), Ford has also updated the F-150 Raptor for its third generation. It comes with completely redesigned running gear, re-engineered with an all-new rear suspension and even better overall performance on rough terrain at high speeds.

“Raptor is the original desert truck. We just took it to another level,” said Ali Jammoul, Ford Performance Vehicle Program Director. “The all-new Raptor splices high-speed off-road performance muscle with advanced technology and connectivity that comes together in a unique Built Ford Tough way.”

The rugged, aggressive exterior advances the signature design of F-150 Raptor. Completely redesigned, the distinctive front emphasizes the truck’s width with a machine-tough look featuring a power dome bonnet with blacked-out grille and headlights that stretch fender to fender.

Inspired by Raptor fighter jet
The bonnet has a new heat extractor and functional side vents at the top trailing edge of the fender, all inspired by the intakes of the F-22 Raptor fighter jet. Aggressive front fenders emulate the windswept look of dust billowing off the top of the tyres at high speed. The same concept extends to the rear, with blacked-out taillights and available tailgate appliqué creating visual fender-to-fender width.

*Some styling elements have been inspired by the F-22 Raptor (below).*

A wider front skidplate offers greater coverage side-to-side and extends protection forward. Durable steel front and rear bumpers are built for the rigors of off-roading, with the rear bumper retaining the high-clearance design that tucks the dual exhaust tips high up against the truck.

Available in SuperCrew configuration on a 3683 mm wheelbase, the new Raptor features a fully boxed high-strength steel frame with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy and composite body. The suspension, stronger, taller shock towers and rear control arm mounting points have been made more capable.

3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 + 10-speed transmission
Power comes from a third-generation twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost high-output V6 engine. Ford is not revealing output figures yet but says it ‘delivers torque low in the rev range right where it counts’. It has new high-power fans built into the cooling system for maximum cooling performance and with the standard 36-US gallon (136 litres) capacity, the estimated range is more than 800 kms.

A new three-inch equal-length exhaust system features a patent-pending built-in X-pipe, unique ‘trombone loop’ and first-for-Raptor active valves. The system takes advantage of a true pass-through muffler design that improves sound quality. Customers can configure four sound level modes – Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja.

The Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission (also available in Rangers sold in Malaysia) is upgraded with next-generation controls is bolted to an innovative torque-on-demand transfer case. A standard electronic locking rear differential and available TORSEN front limited-slip differential are fitted with 4:10 final drive ratios.

With 7 selectable drive modes, the Terrain Management System allows drivers to choose the setting best suited to driving conditions. Each mode adjusts steering feel, transfer case behaviour, stability control, active valve exhaust, active damping system, throttle mapping and transmission shift points, as well as the display on the digital gauge cluster.

Trail 1-Pedal Drive is a system helps make extreme off-road driving like rock crawling easier. In harsh trail situations, a driver typically must use both pedals, modulating throttle and brake simultaneously to advance the truck. Trail 1-Pedal Drive simplifies all that, combining those operations into activating just the throttle – press to move forward, release to brake. The computer ‘co-driver’ applies the brakes proportionally as the driver lifts from the accelerator.

The F-150 Raptor also comes with standard Trail Control, which operates like cruise control for off-road use. Once the desired speed is set, the computer manages throttle and braking to allow the driver to focus on steering through challenging off-road conditions.

It’s also possible to use the truck as a mobile power generation with Pro Power Onboard. With the engine running, up to 2 kilowatts of electrical output is available to run power tools, camp lights and other equipment.

Redesigned rear suspension
Of note is the 5-link rear suspension with extra-long trailing arms to better maintain axle position on rough terrain, a Panhard rod and 24-inch coil springs – the longest in the class. The suspension, combined with more sophisticated engine management software, means the truck can put more torque to the rear wheels for quicker starts off the line, faster acceleration and better throttle responsiveness while simultaneously delivering comfort, stability, handling, control and traction at speed.

The Raptor can fly through the air easily and handle heavy landings, a requirement for a desert racer, and to improve this, there are next-generation FOX Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers with state-of-the-art electronic control technology offering position-sensitive damping adjustability.

The Raptor’s largest-ever shocks are designed to better resist heat build-up and to react even faster to terrain changes for greater confidence over extended desert running. The larger 3.1-inch-diameter anodized aluminium bodies of the absorber unit are filled with all-new low-friction shock fluid specially designed to decrease frictional losses inside the damper for improved off and on-road comfort. New electronically controlled base valves are race-proven with an upgraded design enabling upward of 1,000 pounds of damping per corner at desert speeds.

Readings from suspension height sensors and other sensors around the truck change damping rates independently at each corner 500 times per second, with the shocks responding at the same speed the human brain processes visual information. The truck responds by the time the driver even registers a terrain change.

The Raptor is available with the largest factory-fitted to a production light-duty full-size pick- up – either 35-inch or 37-inch tyres. These are specially designed BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyres which can easily clear obstacles. When fitted with the 37-inch tyres, there’s up to 332 mm of running clearance. Wheel travel with 35-inch tyres reaching 356 mm at the front and 380 mm at the rear.

Tech for off-road or on-highway
The new high-tech cockpit has a customizable 12-inch digital gauge cluster with Raptor-specific graphics and animations, off-road data and turn-by-turn navigation. The customizable new 12-inch centre screen allows owners to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously, including navigation, music or truck features.

A 360-degree camera system provides an in-cabin view of obstacles around the truck, with the front view offering a real-time tyre track overlay to dynamically show the path of the wheels ahead to reduce the need to stop for spotter guidance.

The new interior uses enhanced materials, unique surface finishes and has more storage. The steering wheel features a laser-etched logo, top centering mark and aluminium paddle shifters are fitted. Seats with large bolsters keep occupants in place and even more aggressive Recaro bucket seats are available as optional equipment.

Ford Ranger Raptor — The F-150 Raptor isn’t available in Malaysia but Sime Darby Auto ConneXion can offer you the equally extreme Ranger Raptor, developed with the same expertise from Ford Performance. Visit **www.sdacford.com.my** to know more.

Longer warranty with 2021 Volvos sold in Malaysia

Volvos have long been known for their durability and even in the 1960s, when some cars were ‘rust-buckets’ and Japanese cars were perceived to have ‘milo tin’ panels, Volvo was claiming over 10 years of reliable service life which kept on extending to over 20 years.

Of course, that is about the car being able to run reliably for that length of time. There is also the possibility of manufacturing defects occasionally, for which owners expect rectification or replacement at no charge. This is typically covered by a warranty from the manufacturer, and it used to for the first year and 20,000 kms. Volvo naturally provided such a warranty even though its cars were very durable.

*Volvos have long been known for their longevity and reliability.*

Standard 3 years + 2 more
Like other companies, Volvo’s warranty periods have progressively extended, and in 2021, owners of their new vehicles in Malaysia will enjoy a longer coverage period of 5 years, with no limit on mileage. Prior to this, new Volvos came with a standard 3-year or 100,000 km factory warranty with a combined 2-year or 20,000 km Extended Warranty Programme provided by an external insurance partner.

“This new offering is part of our dedication to quality, particularly in relation to our vehicles and customer relationship. At Volvo Car Malaysia, every decision we make is designed around the customer’s needs and more so to solidify their trust in Volvo. We want our customers to feel supported throughout the ownership of their vehicle and we believe that the new extended factory warranty is a step in the right direction as a premium car brand that is rooted in safety,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM).

*Models like the XC90 PHEV have an additional longer warranty period specifically for the lithium-ion battery pack (below) to give owners peace of mind as the cost of replacement is expensive.*

8 years for PHEV battery pack
In December 2020, VCM also announced that the battery pack in Volvo’s Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) models would have an extended warranty period of up to 8 years or a maximum of 160,000 kms. The long warranty has been offered by other manufacturers in view of the high replacement cost of a battery pack.

Like the small 12V battery that has been present in the engine bay for decades, the high-voltage battery pack has a certain service lifespan but it cannot be certain. Its life depends on usage conditions, manufacturing quality and other factors and it may be short or it may surprise by being very long. But unlike the 12V battery, a battery pack for t hybrid vehicles is many thousands of ringgit.

“Our end goal of this initiative is to allow our valued customers to feel the utmost comfort when driving a Volvo car, free of worries. We allow them to fully experience the innovation and technology that goes into each one of our cars, and by doing so we are able to provide our customers with the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way,” said Mr. Nalin, adding that the extended factory warranty is vehicles that are registered for private use and not applicable to vehicles registered or used for commercial purposes.

An advertisement in Malaysia in the 1980s (left) promoting the long life of the Volvo 244. Irv Gordon proved the point by putting 5.15 million kms on his P1800 between the time he bought it in 1966 and 2013. It’s a record no one else is likely to ever beat.

Pros and cons of longer warranties
Long warranties may please car-buyers as it means they have coverage for a longer period, which is good for those who plan to keep their cars for many years. Furthermore, the warranty is usually transferable (if still in effect), which can add a bit more to resale value.

However, warranty conditions typically require the owner to adhere to the specified service intervals, and to use only an authorised service centre of the brand (and of course, genuine replacement parts). Some companies can be strict about this and if an owner misses a scheduled service or even does it well past the due time, the warranty could be terminated.

In fact, this issue of ensuring scheduled service on time to avoid voiding the warranty worried owners last year when the first Movement Control Order (MCO) was introduced. As they could not get to their service centres (which were also closed), there was the fear that they might lose their warranty. The car companies were quick to assure their customers that the warranty would not be cancelled if they were unable to send their vehicles in for servicing, but they had to do so within 30 days after the MCO was lifted.

A longer warranty which forces an owner to keep using an authorised service centre may not be welcome by all customers. While we recommend using authorised service centres for their expertise with a specific brand, we can understand that there may be owners who prefer to use independent workshops which may charge less. For such owners, the warranty conditions that require them to use only an authorised service centre may not be good.

It should be noted too that there are two types of warranties. Different manufacturers will have different approaches and some may offer a long factory warranty which has broad coverage from the first day to the last day.

Then there are companies which offer a longer warranty that is coupled to the original one that covers the first few years. The additional years are, however, covered by another party like an insurance policy. However, the fine print may reveal that for the extra years, the coverage is slightly different and certain items may not be covered when they had been covered before by the original warranty.

Customers should therefore ask for clarification about this at the time of purchase. Some companies may have a deal with the external party to provide identical coverage terms, and some may not. Many years ago, owners of a certain European brand found, to their surprise, that warranty claims were not entertained for certain items (even though the warranty was still in effect). This came to light when the brand changed franchise holders and the new franchise holder attempted to get warranty compensation for existing customers.

As for mileage, European brands have long offered unlimited mileage after original registration. Asian brands were more conservative and set a maximum mileage which would apply if it was reached before the number of years ended. Generally, it was a reasonable figure though high-mileage motorists would certainly have preferred an unlimited condition.

With the restriction on movements and interstate travel over the past year, many owners may find that they will get to enjoy the full number of years of warranty coverage, even if there is a mileage limit. They would be travelling less, especially those who are instructed to ‘WFH’ (work from home).

Piston.my

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