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Polestar presents high-performance EV of the future – the Precept Concept

Polestar began as a racing team in 1996 and after showing what it could do to Volvos, the Swedish carmaker decided to commission the company to develop performance variants. The potential of such enhanced models led Volvo to acquire the company in 2015 and have a sub-brand which focussed on performance.

Two years later, Polestar’s mission changed as it was tasked to focus on electric cars. Volvo and its owner, the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, provided 640 million euros (about RM2.94 billion) to support the initial phase of product, brand and industrial development.

As a fully consolidated Volvo Cars subsidiary, it would become a stand-alone electrified performance car company. Since then, besides being an advanced technology affiliate for the Volvo Car Group, Polestar has also started to build cars at a new factory in China.

Vision of future direction
Obviously a very forward-looking company, Polestar is looking ahead and its vision of the brand’s future direction is revealed in the Precept concept. A precept is a manifesto of things to come, a declaration. Hence the name chosen emphasises the car’s role in setting out Polestar’s intent as the contemporary electric performance brand.

“Precept is a declaration, a vision of what Polestar stands for and what makes the brand relevant,” said Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar. “The car is a response to the clear challenges our society and industry face. This is not a dream of a distant future; Polestar Precept previews future vehicles and shows how we will apply innovation to minimise our environmental impact.”

Minimalistic athleticism and restrained surfacing are evident in the aerodynamic sculpted form of the Precept with proportions that define its presence. A 3.1-metre wheelbase which accommodates a large battery pack gives the 4-door Grand Tourer a very low and sleek silhouette with an emphasis on legroom and headroom in the rear.

No grille needed
Not requiring a grille for cooling, the front end incorporates the Polestar SmartZone, representing a shift from ‘breathing’ to ‘seeing’. The area which once channelled air to radiators and the internal combustion engine now houses technology for safety sensors and driver assistance functions.

Purposefully gathered behind a transparent panel dedicated to intelligent hardware are two radar sensors and a high definition camera. The LiDAR pod, mounted atop the glass roof, is given optimal visibility as a next step towards increased driving assistance. The Thor’s Hammer LED headlight signature evolves with separated elements, taking on a dynamic, more robotic and brand-defining interpretation.

The Precept features an integrated front wing above the SmartZone which accelerates airflow over the long bonnet. This allows air to attach itself to the surface earlier, which improves aerodynamic efficiency and thus improves the car’s range.

At the rear, the wide light-blade spans the entire width of the car, extending into vertical aero-wings – another aerodynamic feature and a nod to lightweight design.

Conventional side mirrors are replaced by camera-based units, each of which extends outwards on an aerodynamic arm. Inside, the traditional rear-view mirror is replaced with a digital screen, the image collected by a wide-angle camera mounted at the rear of the car.

The absence of a conventional rear window means that the Precept’s single-volume glass roof extends behind the rear seats and the tailgate itself is designed with a larger opening and higher-mounted hinges improving access.

Best available technologies
Polestar continues to believe in collaborating with experts to accelerate development and provide customers with the best available technologies. The Precept’s interior is defined by sustainability and offered opportunity to work with new materials and processes. Similarly, the evolution of the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) builds on current partnerships which maximise the integration of expertise.

Sustainable new interior materials balance modern high-tech luxury with reduced environmental impact. For instance, flax-based composites for interior panels and seatbacks offer significant improvements over conventional materials, including up to 50% saving in weight and up to 80% reduction of plastic waste.

The seat surfaces are 3D-knitted from recycled PET bottles, while the bolsters and headrests are made from recycled cork vinyl and the carpets from reclaimed fishing nets. These elements, combined with digital artistry, define a new premium luxury that surpasses the conventions of leather, wood and chrome.

Android-powered connectivity
The next generation HMI, powered by Android, builds on Polestar’s close collaboration with Google. An enlarged, portrait-oriented 15-inch centre touch screen complements a 12.5-inch driver display, and the two are linked by an illuminated blade that encompasses the entire interior. In this execution, the unique Polestar emblem floats holographically inside a solid piece of Swedish crystal between the rear seat headrests.

Supporting the advancement of a personalised and dynamic digital interface, the instrument panel also hosts an array of smart sensors. Eye tracking will allow the car to monitor the driver’s gaze and adjust the content of the various screens accordingly. Proximity sensors also enhance the usability of the centre display when driving.

New Geely ICON compact SUV launched in China

As some carmakers have done in recent years, Geely Auto used online media to launch the ICON, its latest compact SUV, to an audience across China. Just like its online vehicle purchasing service that was launched earlier this month, this online event was appropriate given the restricted movements in many areas due to the COVID-19 epidemic.

Geely Auto received over 30,000 orders in the hours leading up to its launch through online pre-ordering.

The ICON’s design began life with a concept model of the same name which was shown at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show with a style described as ‘avant-garde minimalistic analogue-inspired’. Breaking from the traditional SUV design trend, Geely designers used a ‘less is better’ design ethos to move towards a purer ‘more 8-bit analogue’ form.

Global collaboration in design
The ICON is the result of global collaboration with input from Geely’s five global design centres. In particular, the exterior that was developed at its California design studio while the interior was conceived in the Barcelona studio with both being revised and brought to completion at the Shanghai studio.

On the exterior, the arrangements of the headlamps has been patterned after an infinity loop, a symbol of time, creating a unique split design. The arrangement is not only visually appealing but also improves lighting efficiency by 30% and extends road visibility to 165 metres.

Visually minimalistic with focus on technology
While being visually minimalistic, the ICON has put a focus on technology. One example: intelligent flushed door handles pop out when users approach and retract when they leave, giving the ICON a clean visual image while in motion or parked.

This new Geely model is the first in its segment to make use of 48V mild hybrid technologies that help extend fuel consumption to 17.5 kms/litre. The 48V system boosts the powerplant with a further 10 kW of power and 45 Nm of torque giving a total of 140 kW and 300 Nm. With a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, the claimed 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time is 7.9 seconds.

Inside the ICON, the same design philosophy as used for the exterior helps give the cabin a futuristic sci-fi feel. The symbol of time is once again visually present in the design form of the air vents and central console.

Large dual interactive 10.25-inch screens, an information panel and central infotainment console dominate the dashboard. From the two interior screens and mobile devices, users can interact with ICON and connect to the world through the GKUI Geely Smart Ecosystem.

The ICON will have, as standard, a new Intelligent Air Purification System (IAPS) that is N95 certified. This system, developed in record time as an immediate response to the ongoing epidemic, is a works together with the air conditioner to isolate and eliminate harmful elements in the cabin air including bacteria and viruses.

Smart technologies for safety
The ICON comes with benchmark-setting smart technologies. Its Level 2+ intelligent driving technologies are supported by 12 ultrasonic radars, millimetre-wave radar, and 5 high-definition cameras. Other driver-assist features include intelligent cruise control, lane-keep assistance, automatic emergency braking and pedestrian recognition, and one-button automatic parking.

Geely’s 360 ° Safety Identification Circle is enhanced by an additional 180°. On top of being able to see a 360° panoramic image of the vehicle on the interior screens, there is also a 180° view from the side, front, or rear of the car, effectively eliminating all blind spots from the driver’s seat.

Addressing millions of viewers online, Geely Auto Group President & CEO, An Conghui said: “Geely ICON’s launch not only showcases the core strength of Geely’s global development network, it also shows our forward thinking and demonstrates the high-tech digital future we are all moving toward. It represents Geely’s leap from merely meeting user demands to creating leading trends. Just as the Geely ICON will become a new icon for global SUVs, Geely Auto will also become an icon in terms of automotive technologies and global auto brands.”

Will Proton get the ICON?
Every time Geely launches a new model, there seems to be the expectation that it will also carry a Proton badge in due course. While Geely would be contributing some models and certainly sharing platforms, it doesn’t mean that it will let Proton have every model. There will be marketing considerations, R&D costs (since a righthand drive version would have to be developed) and also positioning of the product against other brands in the group.

Having said that, the ICON looks like a good candidate as a global model and we would not be surprised if Azlan Othman and his Proton Design team are already coming up with Malaysianised proposals.

Finally, the Renault Twingo goes fully electric

Given its compact size, the Renault Twingo was destined to one day become an electric vehicle (EV). But 28 years ago, when it was introduced, EV technology was still not advanced and didn’t offer the efficiency and performance that would attract consumers, apart from the fact that the technology was expensive.

After three generations and almost 4 million cars sold in 25 countries, the Twingo now goes fully electric with its latest version – the Twingo Z.E. which will be launched at the Geneva Motorshow next month.

Seventh EV developed by Renault
This is the seventh all-electric vehicle developed by Renault, joining the ZOE, Twizy quadricycle, Kangoo Z.E., Master Z.E., as well as the RSM SM3 Z.E. saloon (sold in South Korea), and the City K-ZE small SUV (sold in China).

Continuing with the 3.61-metre long model’s fun design, attractive personality and exclusive customisation possibilities, the addition of an electric powertrain offers personal mobility with zero emissions. Its electric rear-wheel drive and different driving modes make it fun and enjoyable to drive.

The Twingo Z.E., which weighs 1,112 kgs, has a 60-kW powertrain which generates maximum torque of 160 Nm. This enables a claimed top speed of 135 km/h (0 to 100 km/h in 12.6 seconds) which is sufficient for motorway driving.

A ‘B mode’ gives drivers a choice of three levels for the regenerative braking function as soon as they release the accelerator pedal. In the most advanced configuration, the car decelerates significantly, which quickly regenerates the battery, reduces the need for braking and makes city driving easier. Thermal management is provided by a water-cooling system, a first in the Renault Z.E. range.

Up to 215 kms range
Sitting on a platform engineered for EVs, the 22 kWh battery packs has the latest-generation lithium-ion cells developed in partnership with LG Chem. Depending on the cycle used, the range can be from 180 kms to 250 kms, and Renault believes that this means an owner can have a week of city driving without recharging.

An ‘Eco’ mode, activated by pushing a button on the centre console, extends operating range to around 215 kms on mixed journeys by limiting acceleration and top speed on motorways.

Flexible charging system
With its smart Cameloon charger (patented by Renault), the Twingo Z.E. can be charged at home, at work or using the AC power infrastructure up to 22 kW. The technology enables it to adapt to the power available at each charging station and make full use of existing facilities, especially in cities. As a result, Twingo Z.E. benefits from optimum charging time whatever the charging station.

It is claimed to recharge up to 4 times faster than its competitors at stations most commonly found in public areas. Connection to a 22-kW charging station for just thirty minutes increases operating range by around 80 kms. However, from a home 2.3-kW outlet, a fully empty battery back would take at least 13.5 hours to ‘refill’ to 100%.

Compact but spacious within
Roomy and functional as ever, the passenger compartment retains all the customisation options offered on the range with the Z.E. logo identifying the all-electric aspect of Twingo Z.E. The 7-inch colour touchscreen, unique in the segment, offers access to Twingo’s new connectivity features.

With 5 doors, a flat floor and a fully foldable passenger seat, the Twingo Z.E. provides a 2.31-metre loading length. With optimised placement of the battery pack, the size of the boot, closed by a handled tailgate, also remains the same.

With the EASY LINK onboard system, charging time can be scheduled in order to take advantage of off-peak hours. Once on the road, the system displays the car’s range on a map in real time, adds the nearest charging stations on request and updates their availability in real time.

Outside the car, drivers can check the battery level during charging from their MY Renault app and remotely control air conditioning and heating to adjust the temperature of the passenger compartment during charging, without affecting the vehicle’s range. Drivers can also use the EV Route Planner feature to simulate a planned route and identify the necessary charging stations on the way.

Peugeot to sell new Landtrek pick-up in Africa and Latin America

Pick-up trucks have not been entirely unknown in Peugeot’s range, although they have been rare. Mainly seen in Africa markets, Peugeot has had pick-up variants of the 403, 404 and 504 in the past, Now, as part of the brand’s international expansion, it is aiming for a slice of the 2.4-million 1-ton pick-up segment, albeit in Africa and Latin America. Europe and other markets are not in the marketing plan.

Its new entry is the Landtrek and while Peugeot doesn’t mention the background of this new model, it is known to have been jointly developed by the French carmaker and Changan, the latter selling its version as the Kaicene F70 in China since last October. Changan and Peugeot have had a joint-venture company for some time but early this year, it was sold off to the Baoneng Investment Group.

2020 Peugeot Landtrek — *The Peugeot Landtrek was jointly developed with Changan which sells its version as the Kaicene F70 in China (below).*

The Landtrek follows the typical pick-up fundamentals and is engineered with high priority given to durability and payload capacity. Before being confirmed for production, prototypes covered 2 million kms of testing on all kinds of terrain and in different weather conditions.

Dimensionally, the Landtrek is of the same size as other pick-ups in the market. It measures 5.33 metres in length for the double cab version and 5.39 metres for the single cab versions, all with a width of 1.92 metres.

The interior design draws some of its elements from 3008 and 508 models, notably the 3008’s 2-spoke steering wheel and the 10-inch HD screen at the top of the dashboard inspired by the 508. The aim has been to provide a passenger car-like cabin (for up to 6 persons) for maximum comfort on any terrain.

The modularity of the rear bench seat is unique in the 1-ton pick-up segment and its backrest can be folded 60/40 or 100%. When folded down, the backrests can support a load of up to 100 kgs. At the front, there is a choice between 2 independent seats with central armrest or a 3-seater Multiflex bench seat. With the latter, there is the possibility of folding down the central backrest to make room for an armrest/work table or to load bulky objects weighing up to 75 kgs.

Besides 6 airbags and Electronic Stability Control, there’s also Hill Descent Control, Anti-Skid control and Trailer Swing Control. The Lane Departure Warning system will alert the driver if the truck wanders off the lane while 1 to 4 cameras can be installed to facilitate manoeuvring by providing a 360° view.

Claimed to have ‘the most accommodating cargo box in the segment’, it can take in 2 Euro-pallets in the Double Cab versions and 3 Euro-pallets in Single Cab versions. The payload can be up to 1.2 tons in some versions and the towing capacity is 3 tons.

The turbodiesel engine, likely to be the more popular of two powertrain options, has a 1.9-litre displacement and produces 150 ps/350 Nm. The petrol option is a turbocharged 2.4-litre unit which generates 210 ps/320 Nm. Both engines can be ordered with a 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox and the petrol version can also be specified with a 6-speed Punch automatic gearbox with sequential operation, Sport or Eco modes.

Like most pick-up trucks, the Landtrek has a transfer case with High and Low ranges to provide maximum capability in the toughest conditions. The rear differential is equipped with the eLocker system with automatic disengagement and provides extra traction when one wheel spins. It can travel across water that is 600 mm deep and clear rough terrain with 235 mm of ground clearance.

2020 Honda Civic Type R drivers can see performance data with new LogR app (w/VIDEO)

Today’s sophisticated electronic systems and connectivity are making it possible to a driver to access and view a considerable amount of information about a car’s performance. The latest example is an all-new datalogging app for the updated 2020 Honda Civic Type R. With the data and scoring information available, Honda says that a driver can improve his or her skills when racing around a track.

First of its kind from Honda, the new LogR app, as it is known, is designed for both iPhone and Android devices and will be available for download sometime during this quarter.

Drivers interact with Honda LogR, as the app is known, through three main functions: A Performance Monitor provides vehicle information to the driver on the Display Audio screen, while Log Mode records lap times on the track. Finally, the Auto Score function encourages smooth driving by monitoring braking, acceleration and steering, and generating a ‘driving smoothness’ score using proprietary algorithms developed by Honda with the help of professional Honda drivers.

While driving, all interaction with Honda LogR is through the car’s Display Audio screen. Both Log Mode and Auto Score also offer more in-depth analysis when the phone is unplugged from the car, including previous drives, performance traces and replays using GPS mapping and detailed vehicle information.

Unlike third-party datalogging apps, LogR features exclusive access to the Type R’s onboard computer, delivering more in-depth detail on the vehicle’s performance than aftermarket systems that’s only available through the factory onboard computer.

What’s new in 2020 Civic Type R
The 2020 Civic Type R has improvements that include new 2-piece brake rotors and brake pads which are designed to reduce fade and improve high-speed braking efficiency; suspension revisions with updated dampers for improved ride comfort; stiffer rear bushings for better grip, and revisions to the front suspension and steering for even better steering feel.

Additionally, the grille has been redesigned to allow better engine cooling under high demand. New for 2020 is Active Sound Control, which modifies interior sound in concert with the chosen drive mode while safety is taken to a higher level with standard Honda Sensing safety and driver-assist technologies.

Geely Auto introduces fully ‘contactless’ online sales channel

These are very tough times for the auto industry in China with the current COVID-19 crisis and cities in lock-down and people leaving them homes less. Understandably with uncertainties about the future, visiting a car showroom is less likely let alone buying a new car.

Finding out about the latest models without going to the showroom is easy enough as all companies have websites with lots of information. But to actually purchase a car or have a test-drive usually means having to go to the showroom to sign documents and of course get a unit to try. Some companies have introduced online ordering services but many still require physical presence at the showroom.

Geely sales in China — *A Geely dealership in China*

Proprietary full ‘contactless’ vehicle purchasing service
Now Geely Auto, China’s largest privately-owned automotive brand, has introduced its own proprietary online ordering and it is one of the first brands in China to offer a full ‘contactless’ vehicle purchasing service.

Starting this month, Geely Auto began to operate its full online ordering and home delivery system that allows users to customize and pay for their Geely Auto vehicles with the option of home delivery of vehicles direct to the customers door. At the same time, Geely Auto will also offer test drives where potential consumers will be able to request a test drive starting from their home and the closest dealership will bring a vehicle over.

Geely Auto previously partnered with third-party online sales platforms that have moved to raise the brands profile online. However, the addition of Geely Auto’s own proprietary online system located on the brand’s official website has led to unprecedented growth since its introduction.

In the first week of online operation, Geely Auto’s online sales orders increased more than five-fold compared to the same period last year, indicating a positive response. At the same time, sales leads from Geely website increased more than 75 times.

Geely Auto will also provide additional services such as licensing and insurance in the purchasing process, creating a one-stop online purchase experience. In addition, users will be able to choose from a multitude of different financing and insurance providers through Geely’s online platforms.

In the near future, the carmaker aims to expand this service to include home servicing where representatives will collect vehicles for servicing and return them to owners’ home.

“The addition of our online sales platform has proven to be a value addition to our sales network in terms of adding new sales and new sales leads to our nationwide dealership network. We have always aimed to bring greater levels of convenience to our consumers and our initial results prove that,” said Victor Yang, Vice President of Public Relations at Geely Auto Group.

Given the current situation in China, selling and buying cars may well change in future as new conditions occur. Geely Auto’s latest move is therefore timely as it could well be the way people shop for cars and buy them in future and the showroom is no longer necessary.

*Proton is one of the companies in Malaysia that has been offering online ordering though on a limited basis.*

Online sales in Malaysia
Using online platforms for ordering cars in Malaysia only started in recent years and the process has only been for ordering (with a deposit to be paid). Due to various requirements, the customer still needs to sign documents although these can probably be delivered to his or her home or office. A totally ‘contactless’ process is therefore not a reality yet but could be before long.

However, with regards to test-drives and servicing needs, these are already available from some companies. Customers can send and email or call them and representatives will bring over a car to test, pick up a car and send it back after servicing. This depends on the company and how much it wants to add value to the brand it represents to be different from others.

Using information and communication technology (ICT) to enhance motoring

The two carmakers in the Hyundai Motor Group – Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation – have jointly developed the world’s first predictive Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Connected Shift System to enhance motoring. The system is also in line with autonomous technology, which is developing day by day.

The system enables the vehicle to automatically shift to the optimal gear after identifying the road and traffic conditions ahead. While the technologies used to automatically shift depend on drivers’ preferences, such as Smart Drive Mode – available on most current Hyundai and Kia models – ICT Connected Shift System is the first ICT to automatically shift the gear according to road and traffic conditions.

The ICT Connected Shift System uses intelligent software in the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) that collects and interprets real-time input from underlying technologies, including 3D navigation equipped with a precise map of the road as well as cameras and radar for smart cruise control. The 3D navigation input includes elevation, gradient, curvature and a variety of road events as well as current traffic conditions. Radar detects the speed and distance between the vehicle and others, and a forward-looking camera provides lane information.

Using all of these inputs, the TCU predicts the optimal shift scenario for real-time driving situations through an artificial intelligence algorithm and shifts the gears accordingly. For example, when a relatively long slow-down is expected and the radar detects no speed irregularities with the car ahead, the transmission clutch temporarily switches to neutral mode to improve fuel efficiency.

During testing on a road with many curves, the frequency of shifts in cornering was reduced by approximately 43% compared to vehicles without the system. Accordingly, the system also reduced the frequency of brake operation by approximately 11%, minimizing driving fatigue and brake wear.

When rapid acceleration was required to enter a highway, the driving mode automatically switched to Sport Mode at the merge, making it easier to join the traffic flow. After merging with traffic, the vehicle automatically returned to its original driving mode, enabling safe and efficient driving.

In addition, engine braking automatically occurred upon release of the accelerator pedal by determining speed bumps, downhill slopes and location of the speed limit change on the road. The changes in distance from the front car were detected by the front radar to adjust appropriate transmission gear automatically improved driving quality.

The ICT Connected Shift System will deliver both improved fuel efficiency and a stable driving experience in the era of autonomous vehicles by providing improved performance in response to real-time road and traffic conditions.

Some 40 major patents in South Korea and abroad for the system which both companies plan to offer on their future models.

MINI Countryman Blackheath Edition makes Malaysian/ASEAN debut, priced from RM253,888

The first special edition of the new MINI Countryman generation – the Blackheath Edition – is now available in Malaysia. This limited edition model features a dramatic all-black design, reminiscent of the stunningly dark shrub land of Blackheath in southeast London in the UK.

The Countryman Blackheath Edition, which is also making its debut in ASEAN, has blacked-out design features – the highly-coveted stylistic choice for timeless elegance. It is available only in Midnight Black, the first time this exterior shade is offered on this generation of the Countryman.

What it comes with
The limited edition comes with matte tone Bonnet Stripes in Brushed Aluminium as well as original MINI accessories. Piano Black Trims stylishly enhance the headlights and taillights, front grille, door handles, front and rear emblems and the COUNTRYMAN badge on the tailgate.

The Blackheath Edition also has newly designed LED foglights and aerodynamic mirror caps which were first seen on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman 306HP that debuted last year. 19-inch John Cooper Works Circuit spoked wheels are fitted with run-flat tyres, along with the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic kit.

The Blackheath Edition is the first MINI Countryman to be powered by the newly updated MINI TwinPower Turbo engine (192 bhp/280 Nm), paired with the 7-Speed Sport Dual Clutch Transmission. Claimed 0 to 100 km/h time is 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 225 km/h, while consumption is said to be up to 15.1 kms/litre.

Sophistication within
Giving the cabin a touch of sophistication is the sleek Anthracite headliner complemented with sports seats in Leather Cross Punch in Carbon Black. The interior is further accentuated with the MINI Yours Illuminated Interior Trim in Piano Black, allowing the driver full personalisation from 12 ambient colours via a single toggle. Music is delivered by 12-speaker Harman Kardon Sound System with DSP Amplifier and Class-D technology with a 360-watt output.

The 8.8-inch MINI Navigation System can be operated via the touchscreen, centre console or voice control. Also included is the advanced MINI Connected with built-in 4G SIM technology that is permanently present in the car and meets the 4G mobilephone standard, along with the Intelligent Emergency Call and MINI TeleServices.

The current update of the MINI Connected App links the driver to an exceptionally wide range of digital services such as Concierge Service, Apple Carplay and MINI Online that allow mobility planning to be integrated seamlessly in day-to-day digital routines.

Priced from RM253,888 (without insurance), the Blackheath Edition is covered by a 4-year unlimited mileage warranty. Owners also enjoy free scheduled service during that period as well as access to a Roadside Assistance programme for the first 5 years of ownership.

Volkswagen and Tarik Jeans collaborate to save the Malayan Tapir

Four months ago, the last Sumatran rhinoceros in Malaysia died and with its death, the species became extinct in this country. Scientists estimate that the rapid loss of species today is between 1,000 and 10,000 times higher than the natural extinction rate. This depressing fact is blamed on humans – population growth, consumption, habitat destruction and wildlife trade.

So it is humans who must do something about ensuring that what is referred to as ‘the 6^th extinction crisis’ is diminished if not stopped. Individuals and companies are putting in efforts in various way and Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) recently teamed up with local denim streetwear brand, Tarik Jeans, to raise funds and awareness for the endangered Malayan Tapir.

An exclusively designed capsule collection, ‘Modern Nostalgia’, has been created which features key elements from both brands, where modern and iconic Volkswagen models are married with local classic and vintage design elements. The limited edition collection comprises of a variety of items such as T-shirts, caps, bandanas, tote bags, key chains and clothing patches.

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM, expressed delight in being able to partner with Tarik Jeans on this cause. “A key pillar for Volkswagen is sustainability, and the group is investing heavily in this cause with over 500 sustainability projects worldwide. We are pleased to play our part in this meaningful project, and we will certainly not stop here as we will continue to explore ways to contribute to making a difference,” he said.

According to Afiq Iskandar, Founder & CEO of Tarik Jeans, the Malayan Tapir has always been part of the Tarik design aesthetics so much so that it was added as the brand’s logo (in addition to the main logo of the mamak ‘teh tarik’). “In commemorating Tarik’s 10th year anniversary, we are honoured to partner with an innovative global automotive brand such as Volkswagen. ‘Modern Nostalgia’ as a capsule collection speaks a lot about the archetypal Volkswagen models and Tarik’s penchant for the retro-futurism Malaysian design scheme,” he said.

About the Malayan Tapir
The Malayan Tapir is an endangered species here, together with the Malayan tigers, Borneo elephants or orangutans. As ‘gardeners of the rainforest’, the tapir plays a crucial role in maintaining the biological diversity of their habitat as they help disperse and fertilize seeds much needed for the reproduction of trees. It would be terrible to also lose them as we have lost the Sumatran rhinoceros.

The Malayan tapir is the only Asian species native to the island of Sumatra, Peninsular Malaysia and Southern Thailand with a distinctive coat pattern. The tapir has a lifespan of up to 30 years, but agricultural developments and deforestation, being hunted for food and even sport as well as illegal animal trafficking have resulted in an alarming decrease in their numbers. It is estimated that there are less than 3,000 of them left.

Merchandise from the ‘Modern Nostalgia’ collection can be purchased via the Volkswagen and Tarik Jeans websites, Shopee, Zalora and at all Volkswagen authorized dealerships nationwide. 50% of all proceeds generated from the sales of this campaign will be donated to the Kenaboi Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan on World Tapir Day on April 27, 2020.

To locate an authorised Volkswagen dealership in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

Click here for other news and articles about Volkswagen.

Comments on NAP 2020 from the Malaysian Automotive Association and car companies

Datuk Aishah Ahmad, President of the Malaysian Automotive Association:
“Our members are generally satisfied with the NAP 2020 and glad that it is finally released. Now they are awaiting details of the incentives so that planning can be done for the years ahead. We wish for more transparency in this area in the interests of fairness for all investors.

NAP 2020 is looking ahead to the future generation of cars to be developed regionally and globally. It is aligned with the direction of neighbouring countries in ASEAN. For example, improving the fuel economy level in Malaysia by 2025 follows the ASEAN Fuel Economy Roadmap of for the transport sector.

However, some strategies might be a bit too advanced although NAP 2020 says that there will be phases of implementation. Though the technologies are available, it would be expensive and challenging to make big jumps within a short time.

The validity of NAP 2020 is up till 2030 which is quite a long time away. Perhaps as time goes on, there will be minor revisions in details as conditions change but the industry will feel comfortable if overall policies don’t change.”

*Datuk Aishah Ahmad and Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad*

Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President & CEO of Perodua:
“NAP 2020 shows consistency in the government’s policies to advance the Malaysian automotive ecosystem to the next level. This is apparent in the continued support for component localisation, which is the backbone of the country’s automotive industry.

Also consistent is the government’s commitment to further the Energy-Efficient Vehicle (EEV) programme, in which many players have invested.

Where Industry 4.0 is concerned, Perodua is a firm believer of technology convergence, particularly the integration of communication technology into automotive applications.

On autonomous technology, Perodua, guided by our technical and technology partner Daihatsu Motor Company of Japan, has laid the foundation with its Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of driver assistance systems and crucially, we have made it accessible to the masses. This technology will be further improved in line with our aim to provide Malaysians with mobility that offers even greater safety and value.”

Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton:
“The unveiling of NAP 2020 shows Malaysia is moving towards the adoption of new technology vehicles featuring electric and hybrid powertrains as well as autonomous and connectivity technologies.

PROTON’s two shareholders grant us access to Malaysia’s automotive industry ecosystem as well as the technologies needed for NxGV models, one of the main thrusts of the policy.

There are still many steps to take and PROTON is confident with the correct policies in place, we will be able to contribute towards Malaysia achieving the goals set out in NAP 2020.”

Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor:
“We are pleased that the government has provided an updated ‘roadmap’ for the development of the industry and this will provide direction and guidance which will be of great value to forward planning, especially where investments in Malaysia are concerned.

With the Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) specifications being updated, UMWT hopes that ample time will be provided before implementation for proper review. It is also hoped that the government will continue to give incentives for a sufficient length of time. This will help to justify investment and provide reasonable returns on investment.

The planned reduction of carbon emissions from motor vehicles by improving the fuel economy level by 2025 is commendable. In support of this, UMW Toyota Motor is planning to introduce more locally-assembled hybrid vehicles in the future here in Malaysia. We urge the government to provide increased incentives to spur the hybrid market in Malaysia.”

Dr. Claus Weidner, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia:
“The new policy is a positive enhancement to the NAP 2014 as it aims to make Malaysia a regional automotive leader. We see the policy benefiting all players in the automotive industry.

The development and production of EEVs and NxGV with increased levels of automation is an explicit encouragement by the government on future mobility in Malaysia.

For Mercedes-Benz globally, the company’s Ambition 2039 is its strategic path towards sustainable mobility. We aim to increase the adoption in Malaysia by delivering sustainable and fascinating mobility to our customers.”