Global News Archives

Fast and Furious Film Makers Fined RM4.6mil Over Stuntman’s Brain Injury

The Fast Saga filmmakers, FF9 Pictures, have been fined $1 million (RM4,647,500) following a stunt gone awry, resulting in stuntman Joe Watts suffering brain damage and a broken skull during the filming at Warner Brothers’ studios in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, in July 2019.

Details of the Incident:

During a staged fight scene on a balcony, Joe Watts, a seasoned stuntman, fell 25ft head-first onto the concrete ground when his safety line detached as he was thrown over the shoulder of another performer. The incident occurred due to changes in the stunt routine, with the safety line failing to secure Watts during the second take, leading to life-changing injuries.

Health and Safety Failings:

FF9 Pictures, a subsidiary of Universal Pictures, admitted to health and safety failings in Luton Magistrates’ Court. The court heard that the safety line, which had worked during the first take, was not properly checked between takes. The judge criticised the decision to alter the stunt “at the last minute” and noted that Watts was “fortunate to be alive.” The matting on the set was not adjusted despite changes in the routine from rehearsals.

Legal Consequences:

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) brought the prosecution against FF9 Pictures, stating that the company had “no system for double checking that the link had been properly engaged and tightened.” The absence of proper crash matting to mitigate the consequences of an unintended fall following changes to the set and stunt sequence was also highlighted.

Sentencing and Industry Impact:

District judge Talwinder Buttar handed the $1 million fine to FF9 Pictures, emphasising the seriousness of the health and safety failings. The judge’s remarks highlighted the astonishing oversight in failing to adjust the matting despite changes in the routine. The incident highlights the importance of rigorous safety protocols in filmmaking, particularly during high-risk stunt sequences.

Hyundai Unveils ‘Uni Wheel’ Technology to Significantly Shrink EV Motors

In a major breakthrough, Hyundai has introduced the Uni Wheel technology, a transformative approach to electric vehicle (EV) motor design. This innovation is poised to significantly reduce the size of electric motors, creating more spacious interiors for passengers and cargo.

Uni Wheel Technology Overview

The Uni Wheel, building on in-hub motor concepts, repositions specific drive components required by electric cars inside the wheel. While the power unit remains external to the wheel, the reduction gear is ingeniously relocated into the wheel hub, resulting in a notably smaller motor size. This pioneering design allows Hyundai to adopt a configuration featuring one small motor per wheel, departing from the conventional approach of a larger drive unit for the entire axle.

Key Features and Advantages:

Independent Wheel Power: The use of a small motor per wheel enables independent power distribution, enhancing both performance and safety by allowing each wheel to respond autonomously to diverse road conditions.
Gear Arrangement: Internal relocation of gears facilitates efficient power transmission without the necessity of a CV joint. This unique gear arrangement allows unrestricted movement within the hub, eliminating efficiency losses associated with operating at angles and boosting power delivery and driving range.
Versatile Ride Height Control: Uni Wheel technology provides engineers with unprecedented flexibility in controlling the vehicle’s ride height. The absence of a fixed CV joint allows dynamic adjustments, enabling the vehicle to lower for aerodynamic highway driving or raise for increased ground clearance without compromising performance.
Scalability: Uni Wheel technology is adaptable, accommodating wheel sizes ranging from four inches for personal mobility devices to 25 inches for larger vehicles such as cars and SUVs.

Future Applications and Production Timeline

Hyundai envisions the Uni Wheel technology being applicable to a diverse range of vehicles, from compact personal mobility devices to larger cars and SUVs. The company has conducted durability tests, indicating positive performance results. While the production timeline remains undisclosed, Hyundai has filed patents for the Uni Wheel in key markets, including Korea, Europe, and the United States.

Volkswagen Anticipates Job Cuts as Company Is “No Longer Competitive”

Volkswagen, facing challenges in a competitive automotive landscape, has informed its employees to brace for potential job cuts as the company aims to save €10 billion. The move is part of the automaker’s strategy to address inefficiencies, high costs, and regain competitiveness in a rapidly changing industry.

Company Struggles and Cost-Cutting Measures

Volkswagen is currently grappling with a decline in market share in China, the need to navigate the competitive landscape posed by Tesla, and a temporary production pause for its electric vehicles in Europe due to sluggish demand. Thomas Schaefer, CEO of the VW brand, candidly stated at a recent staff meeting that the company is “no longer competitive” in its current state, citing high costs and inefficiencies within the organization.

During the meeting at the Wolfsburg headquarters, Schaefer emphasized the need for change, stating, “With many of our pre-existing structures, processes, and high costs, we are no longer competitive as the Volkswagen brand.” Gunnar Kilian, a board member for human resources, acknowledged the possibility of job reductions, with some employees considering partial or early retirement. However, he emphasized that the majority of the targeted €10 billion in savings would come from measures beyond job cuts, details of which will be revealed later.

Addressing Inefficiencies and Duplications

Kilian urged the company to be “brave and honest enough to throw things overboard that are being duplicated within the company or are simply ballast we don’t need for good results.” The company aims to streamline its operations, eliminate redundancies, and optimise processes to achieve cost savings and enhance overall efficiency.

This announcement follows earlier warnings from Schaefer in June, where he alerted VW managers about rising costs, stating, “the roof is on fire” and emphasising the need to address cost challenges across various areas within the company.

Volkswagen’s cost-cutting strategy reflects the broader challenges faced by traditional automakers as they navigate an industry undergoing significant transformation, including the rise of electric vehicles and changing consumer preferences.

Toyota Unveils Camry XSE Race Car For 2024 NASCAR

Toyota revealed a newly-designed NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) Toyota Camry XSE race car that will debut in the 2024 NCS season. The Camry XSE Next Gen follows the Toyota Camry TRD Next Gen, which produced 18 victories and 25 poles during the last two seasons of competition.

Toyota, TRD (Toyota Racing Development, U.S.A.) and Calty Design worked together to ensure body styling characteristics replicated the recently unveiled 2025 Toyota Camry XSE as closely as possible. New features of the Toyota Camry race car include a distinctive hammerhead styling on the front facia with an upper grille slot that is tied into the updated slim and wide headlights.

The outside of the larger lower grille area also features C-shaped corner vents, while the hood features new character lines and new hood duct exits. The back facia of the car includes revised quarter panel styling and chamfered bumper corners on the back of the corner panels that blend into the rear bumper. These features, along with updated thinner taillights, give the new Camry race car a more sculpted appearance.

Toyota continues to be the only manufacturer in NASCAR to showcase three nameplates across the three national series – the Camry in the NCS, the GR Supra in the NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) and the Tundra TRD Pro in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS). Since joining the NCS and NXS in 2007, Toyota has earned 180 NCS wins and three NCS championships along with 201 NXS victories and four NXS titles. And since its entry into the NCTS in 2004, Toyota has claimed 228 wins and nine Truck Series championships.

Volkswagen Is Outsourcing Development of The Scout Electric SUV

Volkswagen Group has reportedly decided to externalise the development of its upcoming Scout electric SUV and truck, opting for Magna Steyr to engineer the two models in exchange for €450 million (approximately RM2,307,300,007). This significant development contract marks a notable collaboration between the German automotive giant and Magna Steyr, a renowned contract manufacturer based in Graz, Austria.

The revival of the Scout brand by Volkswagen was announced in May 2022, with plans to introduce an electric pickup truck and SUV in 2026. Subsequent developments included the appointment of CEO Scott Keogh in July, the announcement of a new assembly plant in Blythewood, South Carolina, and the appointment of Chris Benjamin as Chief of Design in May 2023. The project has now taken a new turn with the decision to externalise the development process.

Magna Steyr, known for its extensive experience in contract manufacturing, is tasked with engineering the electric SUV and truck for Scout Motors. The €450 million agreement positions Magna Steyr as a key player in the development of these EVs. The company, which has been assembling vehicles since the late 1970s, has built various models, including the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and is currently involved in the production of models like the Toyota Supra/BMW Z4, Jaguar’s E-Pace and I-Pace, and the Fisker Ocean.

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Porsche Phases Out Panamera Sport Turismo, Focuses on Sedan-Only

Porsche has made the strategic decision to discontinue the Sport Turismo wagon variant in the Panamera lineup, unveiling the third generation of the luxury sedan with a renewed focus on a sedan-only range. The move follows the debut of the latest Panamera model, which showcased the absence of the Sport Turismo option.

The decision to drop the Sport Turismo comes as a response to the model’s slow sales, which did not justify the development of a successor. Porsche acknowledges that the Sport Turismo has played a minor role in key markets, especially in China and the United States. The statement from Porsche highlights the specific market dynamics, stating, “In China and the US – our main markets in the D-Segment – the Sport Turismo plays only a minor role. For this reason, we have decided to discontinue this model variant with the launch of the new generation.”

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Skywell Unveils Futuristic Electric Sedan “Skyhome” with Jet-Like Features

Chinese electronics giant Skywell has lifted the curtain on its revolutionary electric sedan, the Skyhome, set to hit production lines next year. Amidst the growing influx of electric vehicles from China, Skywell’s creation stands out with innovative features, promising a blend of sleek design and cutting-edge technology.

The Skyhome, produced under Skywell’s automotive division Skyworth, boasts a remarkably curvy exterior, breaking away from the sharp edges dominating modern car design. With a flowing front fascia, LED headlights, a panoramic glass roof, and digital wing mirrors, the car exudes a sleek and distinctive aesthetic. Notably, the cabin features a massive curved screen on the dashboard, housing the gauge cluster, infotainment display, and a passenger-centric screen. The yoke-style steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a variety of materials contribute to the futuristic interior.

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Volkswagen Accelerates EV Strategy in China with $1.1 Billion Investment

In a strategic move to solidify its presence in the rapidly growing Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market, Volkswagen has unveiled plans for a new platform tailored for affordable electric cars. The announcement was made by Ralf Brandstaetter, Chief of Volkswagen China, during the inauguration of the Volkswagen Group China Technology Company (VCTC) in Hefei, where an investment of approximately $1.1 billion is set to generate over 2,000 jobs.

The newly revealed platform, tentatively named the “A Main Platform,” is designed specifically for the Chinese market. Volkswagen aims to enhance cost efficiency by incorporating a higher percentage of locally sourced components compared to their existing Modular Electric Drive Toolkit (MEB)-based models in China, such as the ID.3, ID.4, ID.6, and ID.7.

The platform, derived from the MEB, is anticipated to be operational by 2026—around a third earlier than initially projected—thanks to the capabilities of the VCTC.

Brandstaetter highlighted the “price-sensitive” nature of the Chinese electric vehicle market, necessitating a focus on cost optimisation. The move comes as Volkswagen faces increased competition, with BYD surpassing the brand in sales in 2022. The decline in gasoline car sales further emphasizes the importance of affordability, and Volkswagen’s ID.3 model experienced a surge in sales after price cuts.

The new platform targets the entry-level segment, with a price range of 140,000 CNY (RM92,483) to 170,000 CNY (RM112,301). Volkswagen plans to introduce four models based on this platform, collaborating with existing joint ventures with SAIC and FAW, the manufacturers of the MEB-based models.

Additionally, Volkswagen aims to launch two all-electric models, in collaboration with Chinese EV manufacturer XPeng, starting in 2026. This aligns with the automaker’s broader goal of introducing a total of 10 new all-electric cars globally by 2026, marking a significant acceleration in their electrification strategy.

Volkswagen’s commitment to the Chinese market involves not only addressing the immediate demand for affordable electric vehicles but also fostering partnerships and expanding its electric vehicle lineup, contributing to the global shift towards sustainable mobility.

Toyota Says Goodbye to Blue ‘Halo’ Hybrid Logo, Introduces Blue Dot

In a departure from its iconic blue halo within the T badge, Toyota has unveiled a symbolic blue dot on the trunk of its latest Camry hybrid, signaling a shift in its visual representation of electrified vehicles. Since 2009, the blue halo had been a distinctive feature on Toyota’s hybrid powertrain-equipped vehicles, but the new Camry takes a different approach to convey the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

The Shift to Symbolic Significance

The absence of the familiar blue halo on the new Camry is deliberate, as Toyota aims to emphasize its dedication to environmental stewardship with a fresh visual element. Instead of incorporating blue highlights within the Toyota badge, the Camry now proudly displays a blue dot next to the letters ‘HEV’ on the trunk, denoting its status as a hybrid electric vehicle.

A Symbol of Commitment to Sustainability

In a social media post from September, Toyota shared that the blue circle represents the company’s commitment to “the happiness of people living on earth and [its desire] to pass it on to the next generation.” This emblematic change extends beyond the Camry, with upcoming models like the Crown and the renowned Prius adopting the new visual cue.

Comprehensive Electrification Strategy

This symbolic shift isn’t exclusive to hybrids; Toyota plans to implement the blue dot on its new hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). While models like the RAV4, Venza, and Corolla still bear the traditional blue Ts, the impending updates to these vehicles will incorporate the blue dot, aligning with Toyota’s overarching electrification strategy.

Beyond Zero Campaign: A Vision for a Greener Future

The introduction of the blue dot aligns with Toyota’s “Beyond Zero” marketing campaign, signaling a commitment to reach beyond carbon neutrality and make a positive impact on the planet and society. The company emphasises a diverse range of new energy vehicles, not limited to electric vehicles (EVs), and aims to underscore this strategy by incorporating the symbolic blue dot across multiple electrified models.

Future Teasers and Beyond

Teaser shots of the upcoming bZ3X, a battery electric vehicle, already showcase the blue circle alongside the letters “BEV” on the rear end. This sneak peek gives enthusiasts a glimpse into Toyota’s vision for a greener automotive future.

Porsche Unleashes Third-Gen Panamera: Elevating Luxury and Performance

Porsche has rolled out the third iteration of its iconic Panamera luxury sedan. This latest model is not just a visual revamp but a technological leap forward, featuring an array of digital enhancements, a contemporary design overhaul, and an expanded spectrum of dynamic performance and driving comfort.

The Panamera enters the digital age with a bang, boasting an enriched suite of digital features that redefine the luxury sedan experience. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) takes centre stage, seamlessly integrating the user’s digital ecosystem for an unprecedented level of interaction with the car. The introduction of the Porsche Active Ride suspension system sets a new benchmark, harmonising heightened comfort with the sporty DNA Porsche is renowned for.

The Panamera doesn’t just look good; it promises an unparalleled driving experience with its standard dual-chamber two-valve air suspension. For those seeking an extra layer of performance, the optional Porsche Active Ride active suspension system, available for E-Hybrid models, introduces active shock absorbers, ensuring an unparalleled balance between driving comfort and dynamics.

Porsche offers a total of four efficient E-Hybrid powertrains for the new Panamera, in response to the high demand for this type of drive system. All E-Hybrid variants benefit from greater performance, range and efficiency. The Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid is ready at market launch. The heart of its powertrain is a fundamentally revised four-litre V8 turbo engine. The output of the newly developed electric motor is 190PS. Together, they create a system output of 680PS. The system torque reaches an impressive 930Nm.

Porsche integrates the electric motor into the housing of the comprehensively redesigned eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. Dispensing with a separate E-motor housing saves around five kilograms. The integration of the unit into the oil circuit of the transmission also optimises the heat balance of the electric drive unit and allows higher continuous output from the electric motor.

The Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid sprints to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and boasts a top speed of 315km/h. Its battery capacity is now 25.9 kWh. This enables an equivalent electric range of up to 91km in the combined WLTP cycle or 83–93km in the city cycle. A new 11 kW on-board AC charger shortens the charging time at suitable charging points to two hours and 39 minutes.

The Panamera’s exterior retains its iconic lines but receives a comprehensive facelift, exuding a more expressive and sporty aura. The interior, a driver-centric haven, introduces the Porsche Driver Experience cockpit concept, skillfully balancing digital and analog controls. The Turbo E-Hybrid model takes luxury up a notch with exclusive design elements, both inside and out.

Standard Matrix LED headlights and a suite of advanced assistance systems, including traffic sign recognition and a swerve assistant, contribute to a safer and more connected driving experience.

Keeping pace with the digital era, the Panamera integrates into the driver’s digital life, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional passenger display closely integrates the passenger into the driving experience. The 10.9-inch screen displays vehicle performance data on request. It also allows operation of the infotainment system and supports video streaming while the car is in motion. In order to avoid distracting whomever is behind the wheel, the passenger display cannot be seen from the driver’s seat.

Enthusiasts can now place their orders for the new Panamera, with European deliveries set to kick off in March 2024. The starting price in Germany is a competitive €107,800 (RM551,218), inclusive of VAT and country-specific equipment. The Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid starts from €192,500 (RM984,318).