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The smart #1: New King Of The Malaysian Roads?

In July, we had the chance to test two of the three smart #1 variants, primarily to assess their top speed on an open track. However, we didn’t have the opportunity to evaluate the ADAS system or conduct real-world driving tests, limiting our insights into the battery electric subcompact crossover SUV.

Recently, thanks to smart Malaysia, we got behind the wheel again, focusing on testing the ADAS and experiencing real-world driving.

Let’s begin by introducing the three available variants in the Malaysian market: Pro, Premium, and Brabus. The Pro variant serves as the entry-level option, while both Pro and Premium variants offer almost identical ADAS features, including:

L2+ ADAS Category/Level
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) – City/Urban
Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) – Pedestrian/Cyclist
Front Collision Mitigation Support (FCMS)
Rear Collision Mitigation Support (RCMS)
Emergency Lane Keep Assist (ELKA)
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
Lane Change Assist (LA) Automated
Lane Change Assist (ALCA)
Evasive Maneuver Assist (EMA)
Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Door Opening Warning (DOW)
Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF)
Driver Performance Monitoring (DPM)
Highway Assist (HWA)
Traffic Jam Assist (TJA)
360 Visual Park Assist

The key difference lies in the Pro variant’s Automatic High Beam, while the Premium variant offers a higher-end Adaptive High Beam, Full Autonomous Parking (FAP), Parking Emergency Brake (PEB), and Autonomous Parking Assist.

The Pro variant, with a smaller 49kWh LFP battery, provides a WLTP-rated range of 315km on a single charge. In contrast, the Premium variant is equipped with a larger 66kWh battery, offering a WLTP-rated range of 440km. Both variants utilise the same 268hp, 343Nm electric motor, taking 6.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h, and are configured with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup.

Additionally, certain features like automatic headlight levelling, lighted front grille or door handles, welcome light, luminous side logo, and a kick sensor for the motorised tailgate are available.

Inside, the Pro variant exhibits a few feature reductions, such as leatherette seats and the absence of ventilated seats for the front occupants. Moreover, the 10-inch head-up display is replaced by a more basic 5-speaker audio system instead of the 13-speaker Beats Audio System.

The third variant, the Brabus variant, offers all the features present in the other variants and an additional option: the ability to switch from RWD to all-wheel-drive (AWD). This variant prioritises high performance, boasting a rapid 0-100km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds. It features a Dual-motor All-Wheel-Drive powertrain with 422hp and 543Nm of torque, providing excellent handling and traction and a practical WLTP range of 400km.

Our driving experience with the Premium and Brabus variants in real-world conditions was a delightful blend of a Mini and a Mercedes EQB, owing to the cars size and high-quality build. The car exudes a sense of quality, both in its interior and exterior design. Sitting inside gives you the impression of driving a Mercedes, with ambient lighting offering 64 available colours and different combinations for the top and bottom.

Despite its compact appearance, the smart #1 is surprisingly spacious, measuring 4,270mm in length and 1,822mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,750mm. Even individuals with broad shoulders and long legs can sit comfortably without any struggle. For added comfort, there’s dual-zone auto air conditioning with rear vents, an N95 air conditioning filter, and chilled center armrest storage.

Moving on from the specifications, our journey commenced at Menara Affin, heading to the Sungai Besi Expressway. Along the way, we extensively tested the reliability of the ADAS system. The lane change assist feature, in particular, made lane switching feel seamless and safe, especially in Kuala Lumpur traffic.

However, in the Brabus variant, switching lanes manually is exhilarating and fun, thanks to its ample power. Whenever possible, we took advantage of this power, ensuring to adhere to speed limits. Moreover, the cars design provides maximum visibility, enhancing the driving experience.

With the Brabus variant, you can activate a virtual exhaust sound through the Beats speakers, amplifying the excitement of acceleration and adding a touch of fun to the electric vehicle driving experience.

In terms of speed limits, the car detects speed limit signs and warns you if you exceed them. With the Brabus variant, expect frequent warnings due to its potential for quick overtaking, making it an enjoyable city car. You definitely won’t be bullied by Myvi’s anymore. As a matter of fact, we managed to get a few “King of the Malaysian roads” to get out of our way.

The technology incorporated is impressive and convenient, featuring Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and even a built-in navigation system. The heads-up display provides crucial information, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.

During our testing at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, we tried the Autonomous Parking Assist. However, this system proved somewhat flawed, often prompting us to park manually as it struggled to detect available spaces efficiently. It seems more suitable for use in locations with minimal traffic, such as shopping malls.

Heading back on the highway, we switched from the Brabus to the Premium variant. Returning to Menara Affin during peak traffic hours, the ADAS system of the Premium variant proved effective in detecting potential dangers on the road. While the Premium variant is slightly slower than the Brabus, it offers comparable performance without compromising on speed.

Though no official pricing confirmation is available, smart Malaysia estimates a range of RM200,000 to RM250,000 for these variants. Bookings have been steadily coming in, although the exact number remains undisclosed.

If you’re keen to experience the smart #1 firsthand, you can do so at Menara Affin, TRX, from 12th to 14th October 2023, between 9am to 6pm, on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Ford Patents Sun Visor That Doubles As Glass Breaker

In a recent patent (number 11,780,302 BS) dated October 10, 2023, filed by Ford, a simple yet potentially life-saving innovation has been unveiled. The patent showcases a sun visor that can function as a glass breaker in emergency situations.

The design appears to be a standard sun visor found in most vehicles, mounted on a metal rod for easy flipping to block the sun. However, what sets this innovation apart is its dual functionality. The sun visor can be removed to reveal a pointed end, intended to be used as an impact point to shatter a window.

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Infiniti Teases Vision QE: A Glimpse Into Their First Electric Vehicle

Luxury automaker Infiniti is providing a glimpse of its first electric vehicle, the “Vision Qe,” ahead of its official debut later this month. The Vision Qe offers a sleek fastback design, providing a preview of Infiniti’s venture into the electric vehicle market, although arriving later than some competitors.

Infiniti, a subsidiary of Nissan, has yet to unveil its first fully electric vehicle despite the market shifting towards electrification. The brand witnessed a decline in sales in the US, prompting a revamped visual identity and roadmap to align with the changing automotive landscape. It has even been discontinued here in Malaysia for some time now but is expected to make a comeback in our market.

As part of its plan, Infiniti aims to revamp sales and target 100,000 sales by mid-decade, relying on four new or refreshed models, including two fully electric vehicles. The updated identity encompasses retail stores with large glass windows akin to Apple stores, symbolizing a new era for Infiniti.

The Infiniti logo has also undergone modifications, emphasising the “Infiniti road” and horizon line, signifying a new chapter for the brand, which includes the introduction of its first EVs.

The Vision Qe concept will be officially revealed on October 24, along with several other new models, providing a glimpse into Infiniti’s future lineup and electrification strategy.

Rolls-Royce Reveals The Black Badge Ghost Ekleipsis

Rolls-Royce has once again set a higher standard with the unveiling of their latest masterpiece, the Black Badge Ghost Ekleipsis Private Collection. This exclusive release, limited to just 25 units, draws its inspiration from the celestial event of a solar eclipse, infusing each aspect with the grandeur, spectacle, and enigma associated with this astronomical marvel.

The external design features a distinctive Lyrical Copper hue that glimmers and shifts from shadows to iridescent brilliance as light dances upon it. Delicate Mandarin accents below the iconic Pantheon Grille and meticulously hand-painted coachlines pay homage to the phases of a solar eclipse.

Upon entering, the interior boasts a tailor-made and intricately crafted finish. The animated Starlight Headliner emulates the solar eclipse, darkening and illuminating in a captivating sequence. A total of 940 ‘stars,’ representing the corona during totality, are encircled by 192 stars mimicking the phenomenon of seeing stars during daylight. This extraordinary feature, taking over a year and three prototypes to refine, provides a sense of celestial drama within the car.

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Mercedes-AMG Unveils Upgrades For GLA 45 S 4MATIC+

Mercedes-AMG has raised the bar with upgrades to its compact performance SUV, the GLA 45 S 4MATIC+. These enhancements encompass both visual and technical facets, cementing its position as a powerful and stylish compact SUV.

One of the key highlights is the redesigned front apron and the inclusion of the distinctive AMG crest on the bonnet. The entire lighting system has been upgraded to LED technology, including a new light signature for the headlights and rear lights, providing a subtle yet distinctive visual touch. The Multibeam LED main headlights are now offered as an optional feature.

On the exterior, the vehicle’s powerful character is emphasized by wheel arch extensions that are now body-colored, departing from the black components on the predecessor model. The standard 20-inch wheels and red brake callipers enhance its sporty appeal. At the rear, the round twin tailpipe trim and roof spoiler lip underline its status as the most potent version of the GLA family.

Moving to the interior, the latest generation of the AMG Performance steering wheel is now a standard feature. It incorporates AMG steering wheel buttons with bright displays and intuitive operating logic, allowing the driver to control vital driving functions and driving programs. The MBUX infotainment system is upgraded, offering a new AMG-specific screen design and an extended range of functions. Connectivity is enhanced with wireless interfacing for smartphones through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional USB charging power and a USB-C port further improve connectivity options.

Moreover, the GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ offers new exterior and interior options, including three light-alloy wheels and a range of upholstery covers for the seats, providing a modern and customisable interior feel.

Under the hood, it houses a potent AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine, delivering an impressive 421hp of output. This compact SUV accelerates from zero to 100km/h in a mere 4.3 seconds and boasts a top speed of 270km/h. The AMG Speedshift DCT eight-speed dual-clutch transmission ensures agile power transmission.

The GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ is complemented by the standard Race driving program and the fully variable all-wheel drive AMG Performance 4MATIC+ with AMG Torque Control. This dynamic duo amplifies the driving experience, distributing power variably between the front and rear axles as well as selectively between the left and right rear wheels.

The pricing details for the 2024 GLA 45 S 4Matic+ is yet to be announced.

Toyota Prius GRMN: A High-Performance Hybrid On The Horizon

The Toyota Prius has long been synonymous with fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness, but the upcoming generation is poised to break away from the pack. The fifth generation of the Prius has not only impressed with its stylish design but has also raised the bar on performance. This has fuelled rumours and anticipation for a high-performance variant from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, potentially branded as Prius GRMN.

Recent reports from Japan have reignited these rumours, suggesting that the Prius GRMN will be a formidable contender in the hybrid arena. It is expected to leverage a more potent version of the 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid setup, delivering an improved response and a more engaging sound. In its stock form, this setup already produces 220hp, so the GRMN variant is anticipated to surpass this mark.

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Limited Edition Audi TT Launched: A Tribute To 25-Years Of History

In a celebration of its storied 25-year history, the Audi TT is getting a special send-off with a limited-edition release in Spain. Only 25 units of this exclusive version will be produced, marking a significant moment as the Audi TT prepares to bid farewell. The order books for this tribute model will open in November, with a starting price of €72,800 (approximately RM365,000).

This unique iteration of the TT is based on the Coupe 45 TFSI Quattro version and pays homage to the iconic sports car. Each of the 25 examples is equipped with the S Line Competition Plus Package and boasts 20-inch wheels with a striking 10-spoke design finished in black, complemented by red brake callipers. Buyers can choose from three exterior colours: Nogaro blue pearl, Glacier white metallic, or Tango red metallic.

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Mitsubishi Teases Electric Crossover For Japan Mobility Show

In a bid to push the boundaries of electrification and adventure, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is gearing up to showcase a triumvirate of groundbreaking innovations at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. This display includes an electrified crossover MPV concept, a novel last-mile mobility solution, and the highly anticipated all-new Triton pickup truck.

Electrified Crossover MPV Concept

The electrified crossover MPV concept is a fusion of the best features from SUVs and MPVs, aiming to drive towards a carbon-neutral society. Embracing the theme of “Borderless Adventure,” this concept promises an expansive cabin that exudes openness and offers an exhilarating driving experience. Drivers can seamlessly switch between driving modes, ensuring there are no limits to their adventures.

Boasting high ground clearance and an advanced electric four-wheel drive system, this concept vehicle offers a reliable and enjoyable driving experience across diverse weather and road conditions. Equipped with large-diameter tires, it ensures a secure grip on varying terrains, instilling confidence in drivers to explore uncharted territories.

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The 2024 Jaguar F-Type ZP Edition: A Final Tribute To The V8 Era

Jaguar bids farewell to an era with the launch of the 2024 Jaguar F-Type ZP Edition, a last hurrah for the iconic sports car featuring a supercharged V8 engine. As the automotive industry accelerates towards the electric revolution, this limited-production F-Type serves as a nostalgic ode to the classic internal combustion engine sports cars.

The 2024 Jaguar F-Type ZP Edition is primarily an appearance package available for both the coupe and convertible models. Jaguar has entrusted its SV Bespoke group to elevate the exterior and interior aesthetics of this special F-Type. The visual journey starts with a choice of two colours reminiscent of the classic E-Type: Oulton Blue Gloss or Crystal Grey Gloss. Opting for the blue theme brings forth a two-tone interior predominantly featuring red and black, while the grey variant boasts a blue and black interior. These colour options are a first for the F-Type.

In a nod to the E-Type race cars from the 1960s, the doors are adorned with hand-painted roundels in bright white. The grille surrounds also sport this white finish. Each F-Type ZP Edition rides on 20-inch wheels with black inserts, exuding a sense of sophistication and sportiness. The interior is accentuated with additional black trims, and special badging distinguishes this model. The car is labelled with a special plaque indicating its unique production number within the limited 150 units to be built.

Mechanically, the F-Type ZP Edition mirrors the F-Type R in P575 trim. This means it houses a supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine generating an impressive 575hp and 699Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Jaguar states that the F-Type R can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

Jaguar Managing Director Rawdon Glover commented, “F-Type has captivated sports car drivers for more than a decade, just as the E-type did five decades before it.” He continued, “The ZP Edition is the ultimate celebration of that lineage, joining an illustrious roster of heritage-inspired collector’s editions including the 2015 Project 7 and 2020 Heritage 60 Edition.”

However, looking forward, Jaguar has made a strategic commitment to produce only electric vehicles from 2025 onwards. As a result, this special F-Type ZP Edition represents a final bow for the V8 era in Jaguar’s sports car legacy.

Purem Aapico Joint Venture Inaugurates First Plant In Malaysia

Purem Aapico, a joint venture between Purem by Eberspaecher and AAPICO Hitech Public Company Limited, has marked a significant milestone by officially opening its first plant in Malaysia. The plant is dedicated to the production of exhaust systems for passenger cars, aligning with the growing demand for clean and efficient mobility solutions in the ASEAN region.

Martin Peters, Managing Partner of the Eberspaecher Group, emphasised the strategic importance of this venture, stating that it showcases the success of their products and technologies for clean mobility in the ASEAN market. The establishment of this plant within a year of initiating the joint venture signifies its promising success and sets the stage for further development in the Malaysian market.

Purem by Eberspaecher is recognized globally as a leader in exhaust technologies, providing sustainable solutions that adhere to stringent emission standards for clean and quiet mobility. By partnering with AAPICO, the German company aims to tap into the burgeoning markets of Malaysia and Thailand.

Yeap Swee Chuan, President & CEO of AAPICO Hitech PLC, expressed confidence in Malaysia’s future in the automotive industry and highlighted their pride in bringing Purem by Eberspaecher, a renowned exhaust manufacturer, to Malaysia.

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