Until recently, any company with an Open AP (Approved Permit to import vehicles) has been able to bring in Lamborghini models, new and used. However, this is no longer the case as we understand that the Ministry of International Trade & Industry (MITI) has given exclusive rights to only one company to import new Lamborghinis under the Franchise AP privileges.
The change, which applies only to importation of new units, has been effective since August 17, 2022, and PEKEMA, the largest group of AP holders in Malaysia, has been informed accordingly by MITI.
The company appointed by Lamborghini as its official dealer for Malaysia is SunAgata Supercars Sdn Bhd (Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur), which began business in April 2021. It has a sales and aftersales facility in Glenmarie, Selangor, which opened in March this year. SunAgata Supercars is among the 22 Franchise AP holders which are currently given exclusive rights to import new vehicles of brands they represent in Malaysia.
The service centre of SunAgata Supercars, which is the authorised dealer appointed by Lamborghini.
About the AP policy The AP policy, which was introduced in 1970, had the objective of helping bumiputera businessmen make inroads in the automobile sector. In earlier years, it was evident that much of the car business was in the hands of foreign companies (mainly British) and bumiputera participation was low. With the AP policy making APs available only to bumiputera businessmen and companies, it was expected that they would be able to become more involved in the auto industry.
The policy was intended to support the development of bumiputeras in the auto industry, but it was not properly managed in its early years. There were parties that applied and received APs but did not make an effort to actually do business. Instead, they merely allowed others to use their AP to import vehicles and charged a fee.
As that was not what the government had created the policy for, there was a review in 1987 and around 150 AP-holders were terminated. With the review also came the introduction of the Franchise AP for legitimate authorised franchise holders for them to import new vehicles of the brand they represented.
The condition, however, was that their company need to have a bumiputera shareholding of at least 70%, unlike the Open AP condition where the company must be 100% bumiputera-owned. For those with Open APs, their companies would have to set up a proper business with a paid-up capital of at least RM1 million and sales and aftersales outlets.
Controversial subject With Malaysia being a member of the WTO (World Trade Organisation), the AP policy has been controversial as it conflicts with free trade practices because issuance of APs is subject to certain conditions. Periodically, there has been talk of ending the AP policy, but the government has found it difficult to remove it due to strong arguments from groups like PEKEMA.
In 2016, Bugatti captured the record for the world’s fastest roadster when its Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse reached a speed of 408.84 km/h. Then Hennessey, the American high-performance manufacturer, came out with its Venom GT Spyder which clocked 265.6 mph or 427.62 km/h to claim the title of fastest convertible which it still holds.
Now Hennessey is aiming to push the envelope further by offering an even faster roadster – the new Venom F5 Roadster. This is a continuation from the premiere of last year’s sold-out Venom F5 Coupe and will have a price starting from US$3 million (about RM13.43 million) for each of the 30 units to be built.
To claim the new title, the Venom F5 Roadster will have hypercar performance and is targeted to exceed 480 km/h. This will be achieved with the mid-mounted 6.6-litre Fury V8 engine which can produce up to 1,817 bhp and send it to the rear wheels through a robust automated single-clutch gearbox.
“We created the Venom F5 to be the ultimate expression of a hypercar. The Roadster version takes the Coupe’s speed, exhilaration, and awe, plus a sprinkling of respect-inducing fear, to a new, truly visceral level that brings owners closer to the Venom F5’s extreme performance.” Said John Hennessey, company founder and CEO.
The most conspicuous design feature of the Venom F4 is the new roofline. In contrast to the F5 Coupe, the F5 Roadster’s roof has been re-engineered with an 8-kg removable panel crafted from rigid carbonfibre composites. The weatherproof panel is secured with 4 quick-release bolts and a pair of high-strength latches to withstand the Hennessey hypercar’s staggering acceleration capabilities and aerodynamic forces at extreme speed.
Owners may choose to store the panel in a bespoke Merino wool travel bag or as a standalone work-of-art on a custom-made, sculptural pedestal. The roof pedestal, crafted in carbonfibre like the roof panel, mirrors design themes from the Venom F5 Roadster. Viewed from above, its ‘blade legs’ trace the shape of the car’s rear decklid, while the side profile uses the hypercar’s bodyside air intake form for inspiration.
The Venom F5 Roadster features a new tempered glass engine viewing window. This panel, in the middle of the rear engine cover, spotlights the massive V8 engine. Its development was no simple task as the Hennessey engineers had to make it good enough to be certified for use in jet aircraft. The sizeable glass panel can withstand aerodynamic forces exceeding 480 km/h and temperatures beyond 540 degrees C.
The Roadster is further distinguished from its coupe sibling by its unique wheels. Forged from aluminium alloy and then milled to perfection, the lightweight wheels have 7 pairs of spokes, each resembling an elongated Hennessey ‘H’. The wheels are secured with 5 titanium nuts with high strength, heat tolerance, corrosion resistance, and extremely low mass.
Engineered by Hennessey from the outset with an open-top version in mind, so only minor adjustments were required to deliver coupe-rivaling chassis rigidity, strength, and stiffness. It will be built in Texas starting towards the end of this year, with validation of the model’s high-speed capabilities set to occur as the production rate levels out.
With Rimac now having a majority share of Bugatti (along with Porsche as another shareholder), it remains to be seen if Bugatti will want to reclaim the title in future.
The Bentley Batur coupe represents the end of one era, as well as the beginning of another. While giving a glimpse of the new design language for the British luxury brand, it also marks the end of the iconic W12 engine which has evolved to become the most powerful powertrain in its history.
The Batur, named after a beautiful lake in Bali, is the second bespoke project by Bentley Mulliner after the Bacalar and only 18 units will be produced, priced from £1.65 million each ex-factory. (about RM8.74 million). The 18 customers who have already reserved a unit will receive their cars within 11 months.
Final version of the mighty W12 Although riding on a similar chassis as the Continental GT, the Batur has a more powerful 6-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, producing 740+ ps and 1,000 Nm. This final version is the most powerful of the mightY W12 engines that first appeared in the Continental GT in 2002. Although its power output is risen nearly 40% in 20 years, fuel economy has improved by 25%.
For the Batur’s W12 engine, a new intake system, upgraded turbochargers, new intercoolers and extensive recalibration was done to deliver exceptional. It is paired with Bentley’s 8-speed double-clutch transmission, and a sports exhaust to provide a soundtrack in keeping with the level of performance. The entire exhaust system is in titanium, while the finishers are 3D-printed in titanium in a first for Bentley.
As well as being the most power and most exclusive Bentley coupe to date, the Batur will also be the most dynamic with Speed-tuned air suspension, it is claimed. Adaptive 3-chamber air springs each have 3 switchable chambers, changing the volume of the air spring and varying effective stiffness. The driver can select the balance between ride comfort and body control using the 4-mode Drive Dynamics, choosing between Sport, Bentley, Comfort and Custom.
The Drive Dynamics Control also changes the behaviour of the 48V electric active anti-roll control system, which can provide up to 1,300 Nm of anti-roll torque in just 3/10ths of a second or completely decouple the wheels at either end of each axle. The anti-roll control system can also be used to adjust the roll stiffness front-to-rear, giving the Batur sharper turn-in and greater ability to balance the car on the throttle when in Sport mode.
Overall traction and cornering grip is maximised through the use of an electronic Limited Slip Differential that actively vectors drive torque across the chassis. This is complemented by torque vectoring by brake, whereby the car can lightly brake the inside rear wheel on turn-in for greater front-axle response, and also lightly brake both inside wheels on corner exit to move power across to the outside, loaded wheels for better traction.
New chapter in Bentley design The Bentley design DNA that has driven the creation of the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Bentayga families has been revolutionised for the Batur, introducing new themes, approaches and details. The new form language defines a new chapter for Bentley design, as part of Bentley’s Beyond100 transformational journey.
“For any design team, the chance to redefine our own rules is the most exciting challenge. We have reimagined the Bentley design language, keeping some continuity to the past and present while also drastically changing key elements,” said Bentley’s Director of Design, Andreas Mindt.
“A mark of power and prestige has always been a long bonnet. Our new design cues include a line that stretches from the bonnet along the whole length of the car, connecting the bonnet into the body, making the car long and lean and giving an elongated proportion to the front end. We call this feature the ‘endless bonnet’, and it’s the only accent highlight to the cleaner shape,” he said.
“At the very front of the car, we’ve modernised the famous Bentley grille and made it lower and more upright, to give a stronger face and a more dominant stance. This upright elegance brings self-confidence with a luxury stance. The grille is flanked by a new headlight shape and design, an evolution of the design used on Bacalar and maintaining the single large headlight either side. These are matched with all-new tail-lamps at the rear, that sit either side of a deployable spoiler,” explained Mindt.
Meanwhile, the visual mass of the car is moved rearwards, giving the impression that the car is sat on the rear axle, which adds further depth to the haunches. Overall, the form is cleaner and simplified, relying more on curvaceous surfaces bisected in the right places to reflect light and dark and bring more muscle to the design.
Ultimate personalisation The interior space of the Batur for two persons is designed for ultimate personalisation and long-distance grand touring. Inspired by the interior design of the Bacalar, the Batur builds on the core elements of the Bacalar’s cabin design and adds new sustainable luxury features.
Every element of the cabin is tailored to the customer’s specifications. Each car will be unique, designed collaboratively with the customer with guidance from Mulliner’s in-house design team. Customers will be able to specify the colour and finish of practically every surface of the Batur, to create a car as individual as they are.
There’s variety of sustainable interior materials to choose from, while the passenger fascia panel is finished with a unique etching of the audio signature of the W12 engine (but bespoke etching is also available). Bright or dark treatments to the interior brightware and titanium options are also available. Certain controls – like the organ stops for ventilation – can be in 3D-printed 18K gold, if desired.
“With Bacalar, we proved the appetite of our clients for truly bespoke and individual Bentleys. We’re building on that story with the Batur, and the fact that all 18 cars are already reserved is testament to the fact that our design team is creating cars that our clients want to buy. Batur is not only a beautiful handcrafted Bentley – it is the next member of a distinguished line of cars coachbuilt by Mulliner, which include the W.O. Bentley’s favourite car in the 8 Litre and the now truly-iconic R-Type Continental,” said Paul Williams Director of Bentley Mulliner.
What if the Batur became a convertible? Here’s what our friend Theottle, the master at reimagining car designs, has come up with today.
Goodyear Malaysia recently donated RM30,000 worth of tyres to St. John Ambulance Malaysia (SJAM) to help improve the safety of the ambulances and passengers. The tyre company has been a sponsor of the organisation since 2006 as part of its support for the local humanitarian efforts in helping Malaysians in need.
The ambulance services from St. John Ambulance Malaysia provide 24-hour response to emergency calls, including transporting COVID-19 patients. At the peak of the pandemic, St. John Ambulance Malaysia transported over 400 COVID-19 patients to the Klang Hospital.
Goodyear Malaysia actively organises humanitarian initiatives to help the communities in need. Over the years, besides the St. John Ambulance, it has also supported Pertubuhan Amal Uncle Kentang Malaysia (since 2021) with tyre sponsorship of approximately 1,000 tyres in total, which were fitted to more than 50 ambulances.
About the SJAM The SJAM has a history going back to 1885 when it was first established in the region in Singapore. Form humble beginnings with 6 out of 56 pupils passing an examination in ‘First Aid to the Injured’, the organisation has grown to over 60,000 volunteers in Malaysia.
These volunteers are found at various sporting events, festivals, parades and other functions, big or small. They also assist in disasters like floods, fires, landslides, plane crashes, etc. In total, they serve up to 3.6 million man-hours annually, providing various services.
SJAM has local 24-hour emergency as well as non-emergency ambulance services. Annually during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Chinese New Year periods, SJAM volunteers are also on standby along the North-South Highway and the Federal trunk roads. SJAM also provides community services such as haemodialysis centres, and Nursing Home.
To know more about SJAM or to find out how you can be a volunteer, visit sjam.org.my.
Dodge, an American brand in the Stellantis Group, knows that going electric is not an option but something which has to happen. Over its 122 years of existence, Dodge has had a wide variety of vehicles although in the 21st century, its line-up has shrunk and it is better known for its musclecars especially the Dodge Charger, which Torreto (Vin Diesel) used in various Fast & Furious movies.
Moving into the electric age, Dodge wants to maintain its performance image so unlike other manufacturers which have been giving previews of sleek, efficient EVs with a focus on range, the carmaker has been working on an electric musclecar.
The Charger Daytona SRT Concept shows how the company will shape its future musclecar. It retains the sporty styling cues of Dodge musclecars and is said to also go like one, but it runs on electricity instead of high-octane petrol.
The 2-door concept’s exterior styling incorporates subtle Dodge heritage cues that are reminiscent of the iconic 1968 Charger, with the vertical grille details adding texture. The patent-pending R-Wing redefines the typical Dodge front end, maintaining the characteristically blunt Dodge profile while developing a more aerodynamic vehicle.
The R-Wing, which pays homage to the original Charger Daytona, allows air to flow through the front opening, enhancing downforce. Incorporated into this functional performance bonnet, the R-Wing delivers an aerodynamically improved pass-through design. Carbonfibre intakes tucked into both sides of the front and rear lower fascias provide an air curtain to assist in exceeding aerodynamic performance targets.
Giving the concept the ‘Daytona SRT’ name carries with it great performance expectations because it recalls the famed Charger Daytona model that was the first vehicle to break 320 km/h on a NASCAR track in 1970.
This performance will be delivered by a new propulsion system that Dodge calls ‘Banshee’. Its 800V system will give performance levels faster than the Hellcat. Unlike typical EVs, the eRupt multi-speed transmission for the concept car has electro-mechanical shifting with distinctive shift points. All-wheel drive provides stability and grip as well as all-weather capability.
The Charger Daytona SRT Concept also boasts a PowerShot push-to-pass feature. Activated by the push of a button on the steering wheel, this feature creates a boosted output (figures are not given) that quickens acceleration for brief periods.
While quietness is used as a selling point of EVs, Dodge has given this electric musclecar the sort of sound that will be missed in future. It’s 126 dB roar comparable to that of the SRT Hellcat, generated through a new, patent-pending Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust system (yes, an exhaust on an EV).
The industry-first Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust works by generating sound through an amplifier and tuning chamber located at the rear of the vehicle. So far, enthusiasts have had mixed feelings about this special feature, some finding it weird as they know it is artificially created. Torreto would probably not appreciate it, even if the performance is as strong as his Charger.
The interior is modern, lightweight and athletic, providing a driver-centric cockpit with all essentials cohesively packaged. The 12.3-inch centre screen is the largest ever fitted in a Dodge vehicle, complemented by a 16-inch curved instrument. An 8×3-inch H ead-up Display puts additional information ahead of the driver on the windscreen.
The slim, instrument panel (IP) and mid-bolster in Ultraviolet colour with blue and silver accent stitching feature a ‘waterline’ that extends cross-car. The upper IP is a step higher, an elevation change that creates a sculptural surface floating above the cluster. The Ultraviolet colour also touches multiple interior surfaces, such as the console, doors and seats, creating a halo that works with the Attitude Adjustment Lighting to enhance shadows and highlights.
A parametric texture unites the interior and provides a connection to the exterior by continuing the inspiration of the 1968 Charger grille detail on the inside. The parametric pattern adds fluidity and sculpture, spanning from the IP to door appliques, beneath the console and continuing to the rear armrests and rear console.
Circuit-like graphics originate on the carbonfibre floor and are strategically placed to surround occupants, flowing under the seats, moving to the centre console and dashboard, and coming back to the driver, a subtle detail that acts as a circuit board, connecting one to another The.centre console includes a unique jet-fighter-inspired cap that flips up to allow engagement of the start button and a pistol-grip shifter design inspired by the past,
The concept seats are lightweight, race-inspired and slim in design, with an insert that features an abstract, perforated pattern of the Fratzog logo. The unique pattern fades out as it travels down the seat and reappears as it flows toward the centre of the seatbacks. The upper seatbacks feature openings and seat bolsters that provide an airy, race-oriented feel, while holding occupants.
“The Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Concept exists because performance made us do it,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand CEO – Stellantis. “Dodge is about muscle, attitude and performance, and the brand carries that chip on its shoulder and into the EV segment through a concept loaded with patents, innovations, and performance features that embody the electrified muscle of tomorrow.”
The McLaren Solus GT was born in the virtual gaming world of Gran Turismo SPORT. Now, the carmaker will make it a reality that can be driven on racetracks. Only 25 will be built and all of them have already been sold before the official unveiling in California yesterday. The pricing of the hypercar has not been revealed although it can be expected to be many, many millions of ringgit.
The striking futuristic exterior design is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration. While machines in simulator games have total technical freedom because the designers are not constrained by cost or regulations, the Solus GT is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos. This is further supported by CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.
Among the numerous external features are the sliding canopy above the single central (like a jet fighter) and wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll-over hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine. The sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators are inspired by racing car design.
A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure (over 1,202 kgs) that exceeds the overall weight of the hypercar (1,002 kgs). The downforce to drag ratio is also optimized, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.
In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbonfibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbonfibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.
Carbonfibre is not the only high-value material in the hypercar. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.
The powertrain is a naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine with a bespoke 7-speed sequential shift gearbox. It can rev to more than 10,000 rpm and will produce over 829 bhp/650 Nm. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.
The engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimizes weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbonfibre monocoque.
The race-derived 7-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.
McLaren says the Solus GT will be capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 racing car. Acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h has a target time of 2.5 seconds and the top speed will be more than 320 km/h.
In the cockpit, the steering wheel (with a unique design among McLaren production cars) takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with instrument panel display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection.
The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the hypercar on a track. Above the driver’s head are switches for engine ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher.
This area also houses the rearview display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane maneuvering.
To further enhance the driving experience for Solus GT owners, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat molded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts.
All owners will get a flight case to allow them to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater. After the cars are delivered next year, Solus GT track events are planned and a full driver-development coaching program will also be available to help owners fully exploit the potential of their new hypercar.
ZEEKR, a brand in the Geely group dedicated to EVs, has set two new Guinness World Records for electric cars – one for the fastest drift and the other for the fastest through a slalom. The records were achieved less than a year since the brand started delivering cars to customers in China.
The fastest EV drift requires the vehicle to achieve greater than 160 km/h and the 001 model was able to reach a maximum speed of 207.996 km/h. The EV has a high-performance dual electric drive powertrain which generates instantaneous torque of up to 7,680 Nm. It is capable of going from standstill to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.
Of course, when you hit such a high speed and put the car sideways, superior control is needed and ZEEKR says that the 001’s high-performance chassis suspension system maximizes body stability so the driver can maintain consistent and precise drifting right on the edge of the performance envelope.
For the second record, the 001 weaved between 50 cones equally spaced and completed the course, without touching or knocking any down, in 49.05 seconds. The stability and precision were maximized by the electric 4-wheel drive, with the intelligent power distribution and the balance between the front and rear wheels allowing the 001 to switch directions qucikly as it travelled at high speed around each cone .
The records were set recently under the supervision of an adjudicator from the Guinness World Records organization at the CATARC proving ground in China.
Proton has officially launched the 2023 Proton Exora at PROTON KEB Auto Sdn Bhd in TTDI Kajang, Selangor today. Two variants are available – the Exora 1.6T Executive at RM62,800 and the 1.6T Premium CVT at RM69,800 (prices excluding insurance). The evergreen MPV is available in Snow White, Indiana Grey, Rosewood Maroon, Ruby Red or Cocoa Grey.
The 2023 Proton Exora has been refreshed with the new brand logo on the front grille and tailgate. LED daytime running lamps are now fitted, along with 16-inch alloy wheels in dual-tone finishing. There are also side skirtings and a rear spoiler, while a black roof with black rear garnish adds a stylish touch in keeping with trends for MPVs.
The spacious 7-seater cabin has full leatherette seats, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and armrests for the front seats. Rear occupants are kept comfortable with additional air-conditioning vents further back in the cabin. The ventilation system now has a standard N95 filter to improve the air quality.
The infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen monitor with the now-popular ‘Hi PROTON’ Voice Command system. The occupants can enjoy music streaming while the driver can have route guidance with GPS with 4G and wifi connectivity. Smartphone connectivity is also available to mirror link with Android devices.
Mechanically, there are no changes with the engine being the familiar Proton-developed 1.6 litre turbocharged 140 ps/205 Nm engine paired with a CVT.
Being an older model, the Exora does not have the latest active safety systems, but it is nevertheless equipped with the essential ones such as airbags (two in front), ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, and Electronic Stability Control.
There’s also an Emergency Stop Signal system which will activate the hazard warning lights automatically if there is sudden and very hard braking. This will help to alert drivers behind earlier as they may sometimes not notice that the vehicle ahead is suddenly braking. Early warning could help to avoid a rear-end collision.
To help with parking, the Exora comes with a reverse camera and together with rear parking sensors, the driver should be able to reverse confidently and position the MPV properly in a bay. The image from the camera will also help prevent accidents as the driver will be able to spot if there is a small child right behind the vehicle who cannot be seen in the mirrors.
“The 2023 Proton Exora, Malaysia’s first home-grown MPV, is designed and built with Malaysia’s rakyat in mind. With this latest update, we took a class-leading product and made it even better for drivers and passengers alike, across a variety of applications, by reinforcing its proposition of power, space, and value. With more than 180,000 units sold over 13 years, the Proton Exora is Malaysia’s best-selling C-Segment MPV and to this day retains that position,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton.
For a limited period (while stocks are available), every new unit of the Nissan Almera Turbo will come with a free Tomei Aerokit Package worth RM8,000. Tomei, a well-known tuner in Japan, collaborated with Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) to develop this package exclusively for the sedan.
The Tomei Aero Package is available for all three variants of the Almera Turbo with the top VLT version having all the items. These are a 5-piece aerokit consisting of a front and rear (two sections) bumper spoilers, side skirts, sport pedals with footrest, door handle protectors (4 pcs), kickplate for the door sills. Door visors, and ICE Cool Tinting.
The other two versions come with the 5-piece aerokit and a bootlid spoiler, ICE Cool Tinting Film and the sport pedals with footrest. All bodykit items come in a 2-tone colour scheme.
A Tomei GT Wing (shown below) specially designed for the Almera Turbo is also available, price at RM1,400 (inclusive of installation). For a limited period, ETCM is offering the Tomei GT Wing to Early Bird buyers with a 50% discount.
All the items are factory-fitted to ensure the same high quality as the rest of the car. Each item also comes with a warranty against manufacturing defects for a period of 3 years/100,000 kms (whichever comes first).
Downsized but performance not sacrificed The Almera Turbo’s powerplant is a good example of how downsizing engines, an industry trend, has been achieved without sacrificing performance and yet giving better fuel efficiency. The HR10DET engine generates 100 ps/152 Nm – comparable to a 1.5-litre engine – but owners have reported being able to get up to 49.5 kms/litre! Should the price of RON95 petrol (currently subsidised by the government) go up, Almera owners will be happy that they have a fuel-sipping engine.
The Almera Turbo range is priced from RM83,888 to RM95,888, with the Tomei package free while stocks last. For more information, visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my. Test-drives are available at all Nissan showrooms throughout Malaysia. For those who are not able to visit a Nissan showroom, they can still experience the car by requesting for a test-drive at their home or office. The request can be made at the Nissan Online Showroom at nissan.com.my/onlineshowroom/.
Incidentally, Via the Lazada Nissan Flagship store, a booking fee (RM250) can be paid online to start the purchase process. A sales representative will then be in touch to assist in completing the rest of the process.
Acura, Honda’s brand of premium models mainly sold in North America, is transitioning to a new design language and a preview of this is given in the Precision EV Concept unveiled in California this week. This is the brand’s third design concept since 2016.
Created by the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, the SUV concept model showcases a future vision of electrified vehicles with distinct manual and full driving automation experiences. Its design focuses on performance through design, with inspiration drawn from luxury Italian powerboats.
A special feature is the theatrical lighting approach that previews an electrified powertrain through a dramatic illuminated evolution of Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille, Chicane DRL signature and new ‘Particle Glitch’ lighting on the front and rear facias.
Dual driving modes Inspired by the cockpit of a Formula 1 racing car are the low-slung driving position, high-performance driver sightlines and a 2-grip yoke-style steering wheel. The interior space of the Precision EV concept features dual experiences – an Instinctive Drive mode for the performance experience and a calming Spiritual Lounge mode during autonomous operation.
The Instinctive Drive mode elevates the dynamic connection with the car with racing-style digital instrumentation and invigorating red ambient and pipe lighting. In Spiritual Lounge mode, the steering wheel retracts and as it does so, the cabin transforms into a warm, calming experience with soothing scents and restful ‘underwater’ animated projection so the driver and occupants can relax and recharge.
The SUV cabin is crafted with sustainable, environmentally-responsible materials creating premium, unique finishes including marbled recycled plastic trim and 100% biomass leather. All the aluminium used, as well as the dimensional green cast acrylic that forms the steering wheel secondary controls, were made from recycled materials. Milled FSC certified wood, harvested from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits, adds warmth and a connection to nature.
Next-generation HMI The Precision EV Concept also previews the next generation of Acura HMI (Human-Machine Interface) with an intuitive and easy to use hyper-wide, curved transparent display and haptic touch response. ‘Particle Glitch’ boot-up graphics mirror the signature exterior detail, visually harmonizing the experience.
“As the definition of premium and performance evolves to include the application of sustainable materials, we are looking at new and innovative material technologies to inspire our customers while both reducing our carbon footprint and enabling the Acura brand to reshape the perception of quality,” said Gypsy Modina, Principal Designer – colour, materials and finish..
“The Precision EV Concept is a look into our future direction and continues the Acura Precision Crafted Performance design language with a modern expression of performance” said Dave Marek, Acura Executive Creative Director. “The Acura Precision EV Concept will be our ‘North Star’ as we move into an exciting electrified future, and you will see these design cues translate over to future production models.”
