Piston.my

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For almost 70 years, the original Land Rover Defender remained in essentially the same form, altered only slightly but the basic design was untouched. It was a functional form that would become iconic and epitomise off-road vehicles that could go just about anywhere. It came to also be the Land Rover symbol throughout the world, even in the most remote places where few motorised vehicles travelled to.

With a vehicle such as the Defender, the periodic change in appearance that customers of passenger cars expect was unnecessary. Its shape was ‘timeless’, and the longer it was retained, the happier owners were because body parts became more and more readily available, not rendered obsolete by frequent changes in design. What was more important to them were technical improvements that extended the capability of the Defender or made it even more durable than it already was.

But as Henry Ford found out, changes in the world also impact the auto industry. His Model T achieved greatness and he thought it could continue to be in demand ‘forever’, but it eventually had to end. It was the same with the original Volkswagen Beetle too. Indeed, the world had changed greatly from the time the original Defender was created in the late 1940s as a simple transporter, primarily for farmers and for military use.

The change was especially apparent towards the end of the 20th century as off-road vehicles became popular as ‘sport utility vehicles’ or SUVs. By the time the 21st century started, this segment of the market began to heat up and was flooded with new models. It was time for the Defender to also change.

The Defender was still much respected and in some respects, it was also superior in capability. But there was a new generation of customers who liked the idea of an off-road vehicle for its rugged image and capabilities, and they also wanted something more modern and akin to the newer range of models from Land Rover.

While the classic design had a certain appeal (and still does), it was time to consider a modernised version and this was one of the great challenges that faced Professor Gerry McGovern and his team. McGovern, the Chief Creative Officer at Jaguar Land Rover, is the ‘Guardian of Land Rover DNA’ and for something as iconic as the Defender, ensuring that a reimagined product would be immediately recognisable was very important. It had to be a worthy heir to the original and not a hastily developed successor.

Over the years, Land Rover had given thought to a successor to the Defender. The most well known was the DC 100 Concept of 2011 which signalled the company’s willingness to produce a new generation. While many think that the New Defender evolved from that concept, it actually is not so and largely served to generate discussions which McGovern paid attention to.

The DC 100 concept models.

While the DC 100’s looks were exciting – as a showcar should be – it was too much of a departure from the original design and that was something McGovern understood and agreed with. A new design would need to be recognisable as a Defender while incorporating modernity and functionality.  Needless to say, it had to still be able to live up to the ‘Best4x4ByFar’ promise – and it had to be authentic.

It was clear to the design team that respect for origins was very important, to the traditionalists as well as the modern buyers who expected a more premium product that was rather different from the original which was pure function and simplicity. There was a need to have the elements that said ‘Defender’ with a modern style that would bring it into the 21st century, redefining the adventure vehicle.

The most significant element is the profile with the large cubic form for the cabin, and the smaller cube at the front end. There is also the characteristic line of the roof, the shoulder running along the sides, and the distinctive wheelarches. The overhangs are also short and of course, there is the elevated position from the ground. There’s even the familiar Defender trademark Alpine light windows in the roof. The rear too has a lot of ‘Defender’ to it, with the spare tyre mounted on the very vertical door that is hinged at the side rather than the top.

“The new Defender is respectful of its past but is not harnessed by it. This is a new Defender for a new age. Its unique personality is accentuated by its distinctive silhouette and optimum proportions, which make it both highly desirable and seriously capable – a visually compelling 4×4 that wears its design and engineering integrity with uncompromised commitment,” said McGovern.

Over the decades, the Defender had grown from being just a simple canvas-topped vehicle with limited space to become a larger and longer vehicle for different requirements. While there have been numerous conversions to create custom versions, there have essentially been two official sizes for the Defender – the longer 110 version and the short 90 version. These have been retained for the New Defender and the difference in length is 435 mm and two doors less for the shorter version. Each version is aimed at a different target group with the option of 5, 6 or 5+2 seating in the 110 and up to 6 seats in the 90.

The design work took some 6 years to reach finalization because of the constant reviewing and insistence on authenticity. The resultant design that is in showrooms today has an expression that is neither too aggressive nor too informal. It is not as ‘hard’ as the original and yet has a silhouette that is distinctly different enough from the many other SUVs on the road. As McGovern put it, the New Defender has been ‘inspired by the original, but not constricted by the past’.

Inside, the cabin design departs more significantly from the original Defender, though exposed structural elements and superior functionality are very much in evidence. The interior has been thoroughly modernised in the same fashion as the original Discovery of the late 1980s which marked Land Rover’s move into the premium segment (Range Rover notwithstanding). At that time, Land Rover invited Conran, a well known interior design specialist, to create an innovative new cabin that would set the standards for models that followed.

The New Defender not only has a premium look and feel with high quality materials used throughout but it also has genuine 21st century technologies with user-friendly features. The cumulative experience of designing for adventurers has been combined with providing for today’s SUV buyers who want comfort and convenience, endowing the New Defender with a cabin environment and comfort that is unmatched in its class,

Essentially, virtually all elements around the cabin have a functional role. These include the state-of-the-art Pivi Pro infotainment system with a next-generation 10-inch touchscreen. The operation is more intuitive and user-friendly, requiring fewer inputs to perform frequently used tasks. Pivi Pro has been designed to be operated like a smartphone, which almost everyone would be familiar with. It can be customised to user preference and is integrated with other displays on the magnesium dashboard.

With Pivi Pro, Land Rover has completely changed its approach to infotainment systems. Having its own back-up battery allows the system to load immediately following engine start. Two high-performance Qualcomm Snapdragon processors with individual integrated LTE modems and Blackberry QNX operating systems provide supercomputer performance and can be updated ‘over the air’ (meaning no need to go to a service centre for the job).

The modular interior architecture is underpinned by a practical layout that extends all the way to the back. Up to seven people can be accommodated by various arrangements of the seats with an abundance of storage areas. The cargo area has a volume that ranges from 231 litres when all seats are in use, to a massive 2,233 litres at maximum capacity (for the Defender 110). With the side-hinged tailgate, loading is possible even in tight spots (like against a wall) as the door can be opened slightly whereas a top-hinged door would not be able to open upwards.

While most owners of the New Defender are less likely to go off-roading in a serious way, those who do take it for an adventurous journey on muddy terrain will be able to clean the cabin easily. Apart from the tough-wearing fabrics used, the flooring is of a rubber material that can be washed while flush door sills allow easier mopping or sweeping of water and dirt out.

The original Defender has a history dating back to the late 1940s and was in continuous production for 67 years until 2016. Its successor’s story began in 2019 and as with all models from the specialist in 4×4 vehicles, the New Defender continues a legacy while offering the best of modern technology and design.

For more information and to find the location of the closest Land Rover showroom to you, visit www.landrover.com.my.

Soon, thousands of Malaysians will be travelling across the country as they head to their hometowns to reconnect with relatives and friends during Hari Raya festivities and the school holidays. Others will be taking a holiday break to once again enjoy the freedom of being able to go further than the state boundaries after two years of restrictions.

Whatever the reason for travel, Shell is offering Malaysian motorists the chance to refuel and enjoy their favourite snacks on-the-go with the ‘Ekstra KM Belanja’ campaign. This campaign enables customers to use their Kilometres (KM) with Shell fuels as a ‘currency’ to buy items at any Shell SELECT, deli2go or Shell Lubricants store.

The more they fuel at a Shell outlet, the more KM they will be rewarded with. As an added bonus, 40 lucky customers will be rewarded with one year worth of free fuel from Shell.

“I am very much anticipating the upcoming festive period and I believe many Malaysians are too. We imagine many would be travelling back to their hometowns after missing out from celebrating with their families and relatives for the past 2 years,” said Seow Lee Ming, General Manager, Mobility Malaysia and Singapore.

“Shell will continue to accompany Malaysians wherever they choose to travel this Hari Raya season, giving them extra value on their journey. Now our customers ‘Ekstra KM’ can be used to purchase their travelling necessities when on the road, adding on that extra joy to their holiday journey. Wishing Everyone a safe journey this coming holidays, Selamat Hari Raya!” she said.

The campaign period runs from May 1 until June 30, 2022 and during this period, customers can pay for Shell SELECT and deli2go snacks using their KM as ‘currency’. All they have to do is pump RM40 worth of Shell FuelSave 95, or collect 390KM with Shell V-Power or Shell V-Power Racing. Once they scan the QR code and upload photos of receipts to the Shell ‘Ekstra KM Belanja’ microsite, they can start redeeming Shell SELECT offers instantly. The redemption period lasts until July 10, 2022.

Customers can choose from a wide array of offers including favourites such as Maggi Hot Cup, Nescafe, fresh pastries, and many more roadtrip essentials available from Shell SELECT, deli2go, and Shell lubricants outlets. In addition, they can use their KM to redeem items from deli2go’s new range of hot and fresh food for those who prefer a more wholesome meal at their pit stops, come this May.

Australia is one of the countries which recognizes a Malaysian driving licence and allows Malaysian drivers to drive or ride vehicles there without requiring them to take any local tests and obtain a driving licence. This privilege is, however, only for short-term visitors like tourists and those who stay longer (eg students or who are working) would have to get a driving licence for the state they are in.

Alternatively, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can also be used, and this document issued by the JPJ is also recognized in most countries. Having an IDP can sometimes be easier as a Malaysian driving licence might not be readily recognized.

A 26-year old Malaysian woman who has been living in the Australian state of New South Wales must have thought that she could get away showing a fake driving licence when stopped by the police for exceeding the speed limit. She may have assumed that the police would not be able to check on the authenticity of the licence as it was from another country, and at most she would get fined for the speeding offence with her Honda Accord.

The fake Malaysian driving licence and the car (below) driven by the Malaysian woman which was stopped for exceeding the speed limit by 13 km/h. Both images from NSW Traffic & Highway Patrol Command.

However, for some reason, the police decided to check the licence (which shows qualification for both Full B and D classes) more closely and in this age of internet connectivity, they could immediately visit the website of the Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) which has information on such matters. According to the NSW Traffic & Highway Patrol Command, there were inconsistencies found in the licence she presented which led to her being interrogated further.

During the interview by the police, the woman revealed that she had asked someone to make the licence. And in an effort to try to minimize her offence, she then showed a Learner Driver’s License for New South Wales. This instead got her charged with another 3 offences for: a) not being accompanied by licensed driver/police officer or tester; b) not displaying ‘L’ plates as required; and c) exceeding the  speed limit by more than 10 km/h. She had been travelling at 113 km/h zone with a speed limit of 100 km/h.

The Australian police are very strict about their traffic laws and breaking speed limits is considered a serious offence.

Following her admission of the licence being fake, the police contacted Interpol in Malaysia and received confirmation that the licence she had was a fake. This meant she committed the offence of ‘possessing a false document to influence exercise public duty’, for which she has been convicted at a local court recently.

As ‘normalcy’ returns to our lives, motorsports activities are picking up and organisers are working hard on plans for events in coming months. UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has already prepared for this, having made the plans last year to have a broader range of events instead of just the Vios Challenge One-Make series that has been run since 2007.

Two additional races
In 2022, in addition to the Vios Challenge (which has completed two rounds), GAZOO Racing and UMWT will run the Vios Sprint Cup and Vios Enduro Cup. These will offer another 5 races this year to make it 11 races in total.

The Vios Sprint Cup is run independently of the Vios Challenge, and will feature 2 rounds within the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS), with each round having 2 races. The event will also retain the format of a one-make series as in the Vios Challenge, to ensure a level playing field where the emphasis will be on racecraft, driving skills and experience, not engine power.

Round 1 of the Vios Sprint Cup will be held on May 20 – 22 at the Sepang International Circuit, followed by Round 2 in July at the same venue. The season finale Vios Enduro Cup will coincide with prestigious Sepang 1000KM Endurance Race (S1K) in November.

2 drivers per car
A total of 26 cars will line up on the grid for the Vios Sprint Cup with each car consisting of two drivers. To make things interesting and to level the playing field even more, the pairing of drivers must be made up of the combination of professionals, amateurs, celebrities and rookies as per the Vios Challenge classes for Super Sporting (professionals), Sporting (amateurs), Promotional (celebrities) and Rookies (young and new drivers).

The race weekend will consist of two 1-hour races. Race 1 of the Vios Sprint Cup on Saturday will see both drivers driving in two separate qualifying sessions, and the faster driver required to start the 1-hour race before making a mandatory pitstop for a driver change.

In Race 2 on Sunday, the slower driver of the pair will start the 1-hour race and again required to make a mandatory pit stop for a driver change. Race 2 will also be started as a reverse grid order based on the results of Race 1.

RM10,000 for the champs
The overall champion in each of the two races stand to win RM10,000 cash, followed by RM8,000 for the first runner up, RM6,000 to the third place winner, and RM4,000 and RM2,000 for the fourth and fifth place winners respectively. In total, the Vios Sprint Cup offers prize monies amounting to RM60,000 per round.

The Vios Enduro Cup in November will see Toyota drivers competing over 1000 km in the race that is expected to take 9 hours covering 181 laps of the Sepang International Circuit.

“The objective is to expand on our existing racing activities in the Vios Challenge. With the Vios Sprint Cup and the Vios Enduro Cup, it will mean an additional 5 races on top of the 6 races already lined up for the Vios Challenge. This will provide even more racing and rewards for participating drivers, teams and dealers and at the same time underline UMW Toyota Motor’s commitment to contribute to a more vibrant motorsports eco-system in Malaysia,” said UMW Toyota Motor President, Ravindran K.

Those who wish to register their participation or know more about the Vios Sprint Cup and Vios Enduro Cup can contact Janet, the Race Management representative from Wing Hin Motorsports at 016-367 3300. Other information on

For more information on GAZOO Racing activities and GR products in Malaysia, visit www.toyota.com.my/tgrmalaysia.

Lexus began its electrification journey back in 2005 with the RX400h hybrid, followed by hybrid variants of other models as well as the CT-200h, which was only available with a hybrid powertrain. Today, with the world premiere of the new RZ 450e, Toyota’s luxury brand begins a new era of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and the Lexus Electrified vision.

As the brand’s first BEV built on a dedicated platform, the RZ heralds the transition of Lexus into a BEV-centred brand. Besides a brand new design, it also offers advanced electrification technologies developed over many years of hybrid vehicle development.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

New visual identity for BEVs
The exterior design presents a new visual identity as the familiar spindle grille is replaced by a minimalist BEV Spindle Body which focuses on aerodynamic efficiencies, optimized proportions, and style, versus serving the cooling and exhaust needs of an internal combustion engine. The rear features the spelled-out LEXUS logo as part of a clean and simple horizontal design that highlights the wider rear track while above is a distinct roof spoiler.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

The interior is likewise minimalist, with an airy and luxurious environment that Lexus has long been known for, along with high-quality craftsmanship. Based on the tazuna concept, the cabin advances the human-centred philosophy of Lexus by welcoming occupants with intuitive controls oriented around the driver, ensuring maximum concentration on driving.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

New steering wheel design
The application of shift-by-wire has resulted in a Lexus-first dial shift knob mounted on the centre console. More eye-catching will be the compact yoke-like steering wheel which is said to greatly reduce the driver’s workload by eliminating the need for hand-over-hand operation (eg in u-turns and parking). It also enabled the designers to lower placement of the instrument panel for better forward vision.

The RZ’s long wheelbase of 2850 mm within an overall body length of 4805 mm provides spacious rear-seat accommodation. An electronic ‘e-latch’ system is used to operate the doors while highly efficient Lexus-first electric radiant heaters, combined with a heat-pump system, ensure passenger ambient comfort. Three types of seat materials are used, including Ultrasuede, a refined material that uses 30% bio-based sustainable materials.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

Overhead, some variants have a panoramic roof which is designed with heat shielding, thermal insulation and 99% UV protection. The glass also has a Lexus-first dimming function which, without a physical curtain, can instantly block light according to the needs of the occupants.

Different challenges for quietness
Quietness has been a hallmark of Lexus models since the very first one and besides generous use of high quality insulation, the engineers have also looked for the sources of noise and eliminated them. With the RZ powered by electric motors, new challenges were presented to the engineers who had to create a balance between sound generation and a very quiet interior space.

The underfloor battery functions as a sound barrier, the bonnet perimeter is sealed to eliminate noise caused by turbulent airflow. and acoustic glass suppresses other unwanted sounds. Additionally, the engineers have tuned sound frequencies to the vehicle’s speed and sound levels during dynamic actions such as acceleration.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV
New RZ 450e uses the e-TNGA platform specifically developed for BEVs.

Lexus Driving Signature
Regardless of the type of powertrain, the Lexus Driving Signature of impressive fundamental acceleration, steering and braking performance must be present. The electric powertrain system uses a front and rear e-axle, each equipped with a high-torque electric motor, transaxle and inverter in a compact unit. As each motor (front: 150 kW, rear: 80 kW) is directly connected to the wheels by a single driveshaft, power transmission is instantaneous.

The new DIRECT4 system takes the Lexus Driving Signature to an even higher level. It uses acceleration, cornering-speed and steering-angle information to automatically adjust front-rear torque delivery and braking force to all four wheels. The system uses a front-to-rear drive-force ratio between 60:40 and 40:60 for minimum vehicle pitch.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

When the steering wheel is turned, drive force is biased to the front wheels between 50 and 75% for nimble response and excellent steering feel. When exiting a corner, torque distribution to the rear wheels is increased to between 50 and 80%, ensuring ample traction while controlling vehicle pitch.

Steer-by-wire
A Lexus-first steer-by-wire system contributes to enhanced vehicle manoeuvrability while blocking out unnecessary vibrations from the tyres and brakes. Optimum steering-gear ratios provide nimble and agile performance on winding roads and high-speed stability on highways.

Long experience in battery technology
Toyota’s experience in developing ever better hybrid electric technology has also included advancing battery technology. Some of the advanced technologies are the high-capacity 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery packs, Lexus-first silicon carbide elements in the inverters and the incorporation of low-loss technologies to deliver an estimated single-charge cruising range of 450 kms.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

Battery-control technology ensures a world-class battery capacity retention rate claimed to be at least 90% after 10 years. Contributing to the long life with even higher battery capacity is a timer charging function that avoids over-charging.

100% BEVs globally by 2035
Pricing has not been announced yet but exports of the RZ 450e, which will be made in Japan, will begin during the fourth quarter of 2022. In the years following till the end of the decade, Lexus will introduce entirely new BEVs covering every segment. By 2035, the brand expects to be selling only BEVs globally and fully contribute to the Toyota Group’s objective of carbon neutrality.

2023 Lexus RZ 450e EV

Perhaps our climate is not the best for open-top motoring but in other places in the world, conditions are perfect for driving around with the top down and there’s enough demand for convertibles that manufacturers still offer them. The Ferrari 296 GTS is the latest convertible to join the list, offering those who want a topless version of Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined PHEV a factory-built model.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

Ferrari 296 GTB

As explained before with the report on the 296 GTB, the engine is a new V6 unit and the first 6-cylinder engine installed on a road-going spider from Ferrari. While it’s not Ferrari’s first V6 (the first one was in the 1957 Dino 156 F2), it does usher in a new V6 era for the company. Total system output from the 2992 cc turbocharged engine is 830 ps/740 Nm, of which 165 ps comes from the electric motor.

This is the first ever Ferrari spider with a rear-wheel drive-only PHEV architecture in which the engine is integrated with a rear-mounted electric motor. This is derived from Ferrari Formula 1 racing cars and communication between the motor and engine is via the Transition Manager Actuator which allows them to run together efficiently and optimally.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTB hybrid

Although the 296 GTS is about 70 kgs more than the 296 GTB, the performance claims are pretty much the same – 0 to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h, while the range from the 7.45 kwh battery is said to be good for 25 kms running on electricity alone.

As with the SF90 Stradale, customers who require more extreme power and performance, especially if they are going to be on the track, can take the Assetto Fiorano package which includes lightweight features and aero modifications.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

From a chassis perspective, at 2600 mm, the wheelbase is 50 mm shorter than previous Ferrari mid-rear-engined berlinettas to the benefit of the car’s dynamic agility. The 296 GTB’s chassis was redesigned and optimised for the 296 GTS to improve torsional rigidity and bending stiffness compared to previous spider applications. This was achieved to the tune of 50% in the case of the former and 8% in the case of the latter.

The styling of the 296 GTS has kept the clean and sophisticated lines of the 296 GTB. There was, of course, a clear focus on minimising the impact of any modifications on the exterior bodywork, always a challenge for a convertible variant. With the RHT stowed, the sleek silhouette remains very similar to that of the 296 GTB.

The need to stow the RHT (Retractable Hard Top) inside the engine compartment required the creation of a new tonneau cover design. While on the 296 GTB, the engine bay is completely horizontal and dominated by two flying buttresses in a nod to the 250 Le Mans, the 296 GTS’s tail is absolutely unique.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV
296 GTS with Assetto Fiorano package.

As is the case with the 296 GTB, a dominant feature of the car’s architecture is the signature ‘aero bridge’. The overall effect is of an extremely compact cabin effortlessly integrated with the wings and flanks. The buttress theme is further enhanced by contrasting sculpted extensions that frame the engine cover screen and integrate the novel fuel filler and battery charge covers, avoiding architectural disharmony.

The lightweight RHT takes 14 seconds to retract or deploy at speeds of up to 45km/h. The separation line between the car’s body and the roof is above the B post. As a result, the folding roof splits into two sections that fold flush over the front of the engine, thus maintaining the engine bay’s thermal dissipation characteristics and the balance of the overall design. This also allowed the designers to introduce a window in the rear section of the engine cover through which the new V6 is clearly visible.

The 296 GTS has several radical and innovative solutions with regard to aerodynamics which have turned the active aero paradigm, introduced from the 458 Speciale onwards, on its head. The car has an active device used not to manage drag but to generate extra downforce. The LaFerrari-inspired active spoiler integrated into the rear bumper allows the 296 GTS to generate a high level of rear downforce when required (up to 360 kgs at 250 km/h with the Assetto Fiorano package).

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

The aero development work done on the 296 GTS means that even in low-drag configuration the car can deliver more downforce than previous applications. In high-downforce configuration, there is an additional 100 kgs in downforce, thanks to the active spoiler.

The rear diffuser has a very clean, linear design with a central channel that makes it possible to modify the direction in which the airflow sucked along the underbody is released into the car’s wake. This contains the vertical expansion of the car’s wake and thus drag.

Turbulence in the cockpit area is something which convertibles cannot escape but thanks to modern solutions, this can be effectively reduced to make things comfortable for the occupants. For the 296 GTS, the geometry of the trim behind the headrests is optimised to channel as much of the air as possible towards the tonneau cover to reduce the amount of flow recirculating inside the cabin. Aerodynamic flaps have been integrated into the rear trim structure to reduce buffeting and increase comfort in open-top driving.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

As with the 296 GTB, the 296 GTS’s cockpit was developed around the new concept of an entirely digital interface. From a formal perspective, when the engine is off, the onboard instruments go black for a minimalist look. Exclusive Italian leather trim to the seats and trim is further enhanced by the noble technical materials used on the functional components.

Ferrari has not announced how much the 296 GTS will cost, but it would certainly cost more than the 296 GTB which, in Malaysia, is priced from RM1.228 million.

2022 Ferrari 296 GTS PHEV

With the overturning of the acquittal of Sam Ke Ting in the basikal lajak’ case in Johor, it seems that young children may now believe that they are protected by the law even if their action of dangerous and irresponsible. They now feel emboldened to play on roads and not only inconvenience other road-users but also put themselves and others in danger.

This 19-second video posted by Facebook user Che Kumar recently shows a group of children along a narrow road said to be in the Taman Anggerik area in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur. The video shows them purposely lying on the roadside as a car approaches, and because the area is not well lit, the driver might only see them at the last moment.

They take positions lying down right next to the path of the car and just after it passes, one boy rolls across the road, perhaps to give the impression that he had been hit. Had the driver been shocked or confused by such a strange situation, he or she might have lost control of the car in panic and then an accident would have occurred.

Source: FB Che Kumar

Hopefully, the police (who are quick to notice videos on social media) will take action before someone does get hurt and an innocent motorist might be jailed even though he may not be aware that such ‘games’ are played in the area at night.

While driving from Singapore up through Peninsular Malaysia to the border with Thailand has been possible for decades, in the coming era of electric vehicles (EVs), a network of recharging stations needs to be set up so that such vehicles can complete the whole 862-km journey without running out of electrical ‘fuel’. While the range of EVs continues to increase, places to recharge along the way will still be needed in the same way as petrol stations as travellers may detour or take breaks in various places.

Companies like Shell, in collaboration with Porsche Asia Pacific, have taken the initiative to start setting up a network of high-speed charging stations along the North-South Expressway. No doubt, as the EV population increases, other companies will also start contributing to the network.

Access to the Go/EVC charging stations requires the use of a mobile app.

Singapore’s sole piped town gas provider, City Energy, is among them and has launched its Go by City Energy (Go)  EV charging service to offer a seamless operational service across Singapore and Malaysia using a mobile app on smartphones. Operated by its new subsidiary, City Energy Go Pte. Ltd., Go will be the first EV charging service provider to offer EV charging solution as a service

This Caltex station near Sjudai in Johor is one of the stations with EV charging facilities.

Go, which finances, operates and maintains the network of EV charging stations, has a strategic partnership with EV Connection Sdn. Bhd. to extend charging connectivity into Malaysia. The two companies recently signed an agreement to extend connectivity into Malaysia. Go will be the first service in Singapore that extends EV charging capabilities into Malaysia.

EV Connection is one of Malaysia’s pioneers in EV charging solutions and an authorised EV charging station distributor registered with Suruhanjaya Tenaga, CIDB, Tenaga Nasional Berhad and MyHijau. With this partnership, Go drivers will be able to access EV Connection’s network of charging stations in Malaysia.

Depending on the location, the charging stations and power levels may vary. Go says that the charging levels can be 22 kW or 43 kW (AC) or 50 kW (DC). The higher the charging level, the faster the charging will be but each EV will be designed to accept a specific charging level. To cater for different EV models, the charging stations will have different ports for the popular types of charging cable connectors.

The third of Audi’s ‘sphere’ concept cars showing its idea of premium electric vehicles in future in three different segments has been unveiled today: the Audi urbansphere. Where the 2021 skysphere was a roadster GT concept and the grandsphere that followed was a luxury sedan, the urbansphere takes the form of an MPV.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev
urbansphere
2021 Audi Skysphere concept
skysphere
2021 Audi grandsphere concept
grandsphere

‘Co-created’ with Chinese customers
Designed by teams in China and Germany, the urbansphere has been conceived with Chinese customers involvement as well. For the first time, potential customers in China could also take part in the development process, contributing their own perspectives as part of a process known as ‘co-creation’. “In order to meet the demands of our Chinese customers, Audi’s design studios in Beijing and Ingolstadt worked together closely to jointly develop the Audi urbansphere concept car,” said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Audi Board of Management and responsible for the Chinese market.

It is the largest model in the sphere family and even of all Audi concept cars to date, measuring 5510 mm in length, 2010 mm in width and 1780 mm tall. The silhouette of the body features traditional Audi shapes and elements, combined to create a new composition featuring the signature Singleframe. The implied wedge shape of the vehicle body is emphasized by the large, flat windscreen.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

At the front, the Audi Singleframe is shaped like a large octagon. Even though the grille has lost its original function as an air intake because this is an electric vehicle, it still remains prominent as an unmistakable signature of the brand. The digital light surface lies behind a slightly tinted, transparent visor that covers a large area of the front.

The 3-dimensional light structure itself is arranged in dynamically condensed pixel areas. The upper and lower edges of the Singleframe are still made of aluminium and the vertical connections are formed by LEDs as part of the light surface. The lighting units to the right and left of the Singleframe look narrow, like focused eyes.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

These digital lighting units, known as ‘Audi Eyes’, echo the brand’s four rings as they enlarge and isolate the intersection of two rings to form a pupil – a new, unmistakable digital light signature. The illuminated surfaces – and therefore the expression of the ‘eyes’ – can be adapted to the traffic situation, environment, or even the mood of the passengers. As a daytime running light, the gaze can be focused or open, and the ‘iris’ can be narrow or wide. A digitally created ‘eyebrow’ also functions as a dynamic turn signal when required.

MPV of the future?
Though it may be considered an MPV by today’s definition, Audi feels that the urbansphere defies classification into conventional vehicle categories. The monolithic design shares commonalities with the other two concept cars, as do the sculpted, soft shape of the wheelarches. Despite the stately proportions, elegance, dynamism, and an organic design language should come to mind.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

‘Third living space’
The 3.4-metre long wheelbase allows a spacious interior designed as a lounge on wheels, serving as a third living space during the time spent on the roads of densely populated cities like Beijing. It can also have a role as a mobile office in which occupants can have meetings or work while moving around. Four individual seats in two rows offer first-class comfort and the seating can also cater to passengers’ changing social needs in a variety of ways.

The interior of the urbansphere is not subject to the dimensional constraints nor limited by the physics of driving. The interior designers had what is the largest interior space in an Audi vehicle to date to prioritize occupant comfort. To this end, it can be a mobile interactive space that provides a gateway to a wider digital ecosystem.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

“To make e-mobility even more attractive, we think about it holistically and from the customer’s needs,” said Duesmann. “More than ever before, it is not just the product that is decisive, but the entire ecosystem. That is why Audi is creating a comprehensive ecosystem with services for the entire car. The Audi urbansphere concept offers everyone onboard a wide range of options to use that freedom to provide a highly-personalized in-car experience: communication or relaxation, work or withdrawal into a private sphere as desired. As such, it transforms from being strictly an automobile into an ‘experience device’.“

Customized infotainment offerings are available, such as the seamless integration of onboard music and video streaming services. There is a large-format and transparent OLED screen that pivots vertically from the roof area into the zone between the rows of seats. Using this ‘cinema screen’, which occupies the entire width of the interior, the two passengers in the back row can take part in a video conference together or watch a movie.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

Wellness zone, suggested by Chinese customers

The urbansphere also qualifies as a wellness zone, thanks to digital options that emerged in no small part through input from the co-creation process with Chinese customers. Stress detection is a prime example – this adaptive program uses facial scans and voice analysis to determine how passengers are feeling and offers personalized suggestions for relaxation, for example with a meditation app that can be used via the personal screen and the private sound zone in the headrests.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

Many of the materials in the interior, such as the hornbeam veneers, come from sustainable sources. This choice of material makes it possible to use wood that has grown close to the site, and the entire trunk can be utilized. No chemicals are used during the manufacturing process.

Audi Light Umbrella
As a special tribute to China, the designers provide a luminous accessory that passengers can take with them when they leave the urbansphere – the Audi Light Umbrella. This self-illuminating umbrella inspired by traditional Chinese umbrellas acts as a protective companion and multifunctional light source. The inner skin is made of reflective material, so the entire surface acts as a glare-free lighting unit.

2022 Audi urbansphere concept ev

Because the urbansphere has level 4 autonomous technology which frees its occupants of the need to be directly involved in its operation, it can pick up passengers at their home or office and independently takes care of finding a parking space and charging the battery.

Premium Platform Electric
The urbansphere is a concept and design study so much of what it shows are proposals for the future. However, the Premium Platform Electric or PPE is something that is already in use by Audi and Porsche. It has been specifically designed for battery-electric drive systems and the is a battery module between the axles. Audi has succeeded in achieving a flat layout for the battery module by using almost the entire base of the vehicle between the axles.

The battery module can store around 120 kWh of energy to power 2 electric motors capable of delivering a total system output of 295 kW/690 Nm. There is one electric motor on each of the front and rear axles which, by means of electronic coordination, implements the permanently available all-wheel drive as required. The motor on the front axle can be deactivated as required in order to reduce friction and thus energy consumption when coasting.

The powertrain has 800V charging technology which will make it possible for recharging with up to 270 kW at fast-charging stations in the shortest possible time. This will enable charging times to approach those of a conventional stop to refuel a car powered by a combustion engine. Just 10 minutes would be enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to cover more than 300 kms. Audi expects that a fully charge battery module would be able to provide a range of up to 750 kms, even when used for more energy-intensive city and short-distance trips.

“These concept vehicles embody our brand strategy. They show how we imagine the near future of premium mobility,” said Henrik Wenders, Senior Vice-President of the Audi brand. For him, the future is a design space to offer people new experiences in ‘spheres’ during their journey.

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