In the early 1990s, various manufacturers considered what the ‘Asian Car’ should be. With the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) created, there was a need to choose a product which would be suitable for the different markets in the region. While Toyota and Honda decided on a low-cost sedan, Ford chose a pick-up truck which it felt would be a suitable alternative to sedans. And with its long history and experience in making pick-ups, it could certainly come up with a very good world-class product.
The new model was called the Ranger and it was built in Thailand at a brand new US$500 million factory Ford set up to be a production hub. Apart from attractive investment incentives offered by the government, the choice of Thailand was also because it was the second largest pick-up truck market in the world after the USA.
The Ranger would be sold mainly around the region (but also exported worldwide), imported tax-freewith the privileges offered by the AFTA Agreement. Ford had gone further with the development of the new model, making it more like a passenger car in comfort and convenience as well as safety.
When it appeared in the late 1990s, the Ranger built and shaped the pick-up truck market, introducing Malaysians to a more active lifestyle outdoors and also encouraging them to be more adventurous.
Leading and shaping the market
In countries like Malaysia, where the regulations were changed to allow private use of trucks, the introduction of the Ranger was timely. In its launch year, the Ranger was only on sale in the last quarter of the year and yet achieved a 21% share. The following year, sales crept up quickly as it became the pick-up that everyone wanted. By the early 2000s, it was the market leader with a share of around 50% of the pick-up segment. The Ranger certainly helped to develop pick-up popularity and started a new segment of ‘lifestyle machines’.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has now adopted a new brand positioning – Live the Ranger Life – which celebrates the Ranger’s evolution into the modern lifestyle truck that it is today. The new brand essence encapsulates the values and persona of the Ranger, which has transformed over the years beyond being just a truck for work to one that can be used as an alternative to the car, supporting the lifestyle choices of a diverse range of customers.
“’Live the Ranger Life’ is spot-on in personifying how the Ranger is more than a purely utilitarian workhorse. It is now leading the pack as a versatile and premium truck that is increasingly purchased for lifestyle reasons that people aspire to own. Customers are choosing to purchase a Ranger not just for work, but also for play and family, thanks to its renowned strength, engineering capabilities, smart technologies, luxurious cabin and passenger vehicle features,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.
Bringing the brand essence to life
Five core tenets fuel the guiding principles for fully expressing the ‘Live the Ranger Life’ spirit and way of life which was gathered through a global customer survey which was conducted by Ford across its markets: “We Make Our Own Fun” (fun in driving and in living), “Up and Over” (tackling challenges), “Bring Others Along the Journey” (family and friends), “Can’t Help but Help” (assistance to others), and “Carve Our Own Path” (being bold and fearless in life).
“These five values reflect the way that Ranger owners and those aspiring to own one go about their lives. They are always open to new experiences. They are fearless in tackling challenges not just on or off road but also in life. They form kinships with each other and enjoy having their own fun adventures. They are also always finding ways to give back the community and support others in need. And in everything they do, they make a point to go over and above,” said Encik Zuhair.
More lifestyle options
To enhance the lifestyle focus, SDAC will soon have a Lifestyle Ford Merchandise store on its e-commerce enabled website. Here, customers can browse for the available merchandise and make their purchases which can be delivered to an address they specify.
Encik Zuhair added that other exciting programmes targeted at the pick-up segment will also announced in the coming months.
If you want to ‘Live the Ranger Life’, visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more about the wide range of Ranger models available and where to experience them.
Today, ‘disruptor’ has become the popular label for those who refuse to adhere to established conventions. This attribute has made fortunes, slain great institutions and even challenged the very notion of currency. Had the term existed in the early 20th century, Rolls and Royce would have been among the era’s arch-disruptors. Through their pursuit of perfection, they proved that a car could credibly replace the horse and carriage.
In the new era following the relaunch of the Rolls-Royce brand in 2003, a new generation of customers desired a less formal expression of brand. These clients in this new era were from new industries and geographies. Their success was defined on their own terms and Bespoke allowed them to have cars that countered the expected codes of luxury. Bespoke would come to even subvert Rolls-Royce – respectfully, of course. This was confirmed following a chance meeting between Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Torsten Muller-Otvos and a customer who had asked an outside tuning house to give his Wraith a finish of black chrome with darkened wheels.
A permanent Bespoke series
‘Darker’ Rolls-Royces were in fashion but those who desired them did not believe Rolls-Royce would agree to their wishes. However, they were misinformed because the brand’s contemporary success is defined by a willingness to listen, participate and define changing cultures and norms. And so Black Badge was born as the marque’s first permanent Bespoke series.
Last year, 27% of new Rolls-Royce cars delivered worldwide were Black Badge editions, the number having grown since the first such edition was introduced for the Wraith and Ghost in 2016. Today, the carmaker introduces the purest and most technologically advanced Black Badge model yet – the new Black Badge Ghost.
Black is the most favoured colour
Although customers are free to select any of the 44,000 ‘ready-to-wear’ colours or even create their own entirely unique colour, the overwhelming majority of women and men who requested this darker expression of Ghost have selected the signature Black. To create what is the auto industry’s darkest black, 45 kgs of paint is atomised and applied to an electrostatically-charged bare bodyshell before being oven dried. The car then receives two layers of clear coat before being hand-polished to produce the signature high-gloss piano finish.
At between three and five hours in duration, this operation is entirely unknown in mass production, creating an intensity simply unattainable elsewhere in the automotive industry. It is this depth of darkness that customers can also add a high-contrast, hand-painted Coachline, which has done much to create the Black Badge ‘black and neon’ aesthetic that has come to characterise this vivid family of Rolls-Royce cars.
To complement the exterior finish, an entirely customisable process was created that allows Rolls-Royce hallmarks such as the high-polished Spirit of Ecstasy and Pantheon Grille to be ‘subverted’. Instead of simply painting these components, a specific chrome electrolyte is introduced to the traditional chrome plating process that is co-deposited on the stainless-steel substrate, darkening the finish. Its final thickness is just one micrometre – around one hundredth of the width of a human hair. Each of these components is precision-polished by hand to achieve a mirror-black chrome finish before being installed.
Special wheel with carbonfibre
The Bespoke 21-inch composite wheelset is also something special. Designed in the Black Badge house style and reserved for Black Badge Ghost, the barrel of each wheel is made up of 22 layers of carbonfibre laid on three axes, then folded back on themselves at the outer edges of the rim, forming a total of 44 layers of carbonfibre for greater strength.
A 3D-forged aluminium hub is bonded to the rim using aerospace-grade titanium fasteners and finished with the marque’s hallmark Floating Hubcap, ensuring the Double R monogram remains upright at all times. To celebrate the material substance and remarkable surface effect, a lightly tinted lacquer protects the finish but still allows the technical complexity of the unique carbonfibre construction to be visible.
Advanced luxury materials
Advanced luxury materials created and crafted for a unique ambience within are defined by authenticity and material substance rather than overt statement. In this spirit, a complex but subtle weave that incorporates a deep diamond pattern rendered in carbon and metallic fibres has been created by the craftspeople.
Multiple wood layers are pressed onto the interior component substrates, using black Bolivar veneer for the uppermost base layer. This forms a dark foundation for the Technical Fibre layers that follow. Leaves woven from resin-coated carbon and contrasting metal-coated thread laid in a diamond pattern are applied by hand to the components in perfect alignment, creating a three-dimensional effect. To secure this extraordinary veneer, each component is cured for one hour under pressure at 100°C. This is then sand-blasted to create a keyed surface for 6 layers of lacquer, which is hand-sanded and polished before being incorporated into the car.
If specified, the Technical Fibre ‘Waterfall’ section of the individual rear seats receives the Black Badge family motif: the mathematical symbol that represents potential infinity known as a ‘Lemniscate’. Rendered in aerospace-grade aluminium on the lid of Black Badge Ghost’s Champagne cooler, it is applied between the third and fourth layer of a total of six layers of subtly tinted lacquer, creating the illusion that the symbol is floating above the Technical Fibre veneer.
By its very name, virtually all brightwork is subdued. The air vent surrounds on the dashboard and in the rear cabin are darkened using physical vapour deposition, one of the few methods of colouring metal that ensures parts will not discolour or tarnish over time or through repeated use.
For the Black Badge Ghost timepiece design, only the tips of the hands and the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock markers are picked out, in a subdued chrome finish, creating a remarkably minimal clock. The timepiece is flanked by a world-first Bespoke innovation that debuted with Ghost: the Illuminated Fascia, which displays an ethereal glowing Lemniscate, surrounded by more than 850 stars.
Located on the passenger side of the dashboard, the constellation and motif are completely invisible when the interior lights are not in operation. As in Ghost, the Lemniscate motif is illuminated via 152 LEDs mounted above and beneath the fascia, each colour-matched to the clock and instrument dial lighting. To ensure the Lemniscate is lit evenly, a 2 mm-thick light guide is used, featuring more than 90,000 laser-etched dots across the surface. This not only disperses the light evenly but creates a twinkling effect as the eye moves across the fascia, echoing the subtle sparkle of the Shooting Star Starlight Headliner.
Increased engine output
From the engineering point of view, there is a general similarity to the standard Ghost model and key to its potent character is the Architecture of Luxury. This is Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-aluminium spaceframe architecture that debuted with Phantom. This sub-structure not only delivers extraordinary body stiffness, but its flexibility and scalability allowed Ghost to be equipped with all-wheel drive, 4-wheel steering and the Planar Suspension system. For Black Badge, these engineering qualities have been comprehensively re-engineered, including the fitting of more voluminous air springs to alleviate body roll under more assertive cornering.
Under the long bonnet, the Rolls-Royce twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine has 29 ps more, increasing total output to exactly 600 ps, while the addition of another 50 Nm of torque boost the output to exactly 900 Nm. The powertrain also has Bespoke transmission and throttle treatments to further enhance the engine’s increased power reserves. The ZF 8-speed transmission box and both front and rear-steered axles work collaboratively to adjust the levels of feedback to the driver, depending on throttle and steering inputs.
As with all products in the marque’s Black Badge portfolio, the ‘Low’ button situated on the gear selection stalk unlocks Black Badge Ghost’s full suite of technologies. This is asserted by the amplification of the engine through an entirely new exhaust system, subtly announcing its potency. All 900 Nm of torque is available from just 1,700rpm and, once underway in Low Mode, gearshift speeds are increased by 50% when the throttle is depressed to 90%, delivering the abundant power reserves almost instantly.
“In the 5 years since Black Badge became publicly available, this bold family of motor cars has come to symbolise the pinnacle of a new type of super-luxury product, setting in motion a shift across the wider luxury industry. Subsequently, nearly all luxury makers create products that seek to capture the Black Badge spirit,” said the CEO of Rolls-Royce.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected but may not show symptoms and still spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
Black, the bold and stealthy colour, is now available for the Honda CR-V in its new Black Edition. Available only with the CR-V 1.5 TC-P 2WD with a Crystal Black Pearl finish, the Black Edition is priced at RM161,913.99 (without insurance and without sales tax till the end of 2021). As the name indicates, black is the theme and is used in many areas such as the front grille (flanked by LED headlights), front and rear bumper garnish, and also the 18-inch alloy wheels which are finished in piano black.
Black theme inside and outside
The black theme is also used within the SUV, and the same glossy black colour is applied to the steering wheel, 7-inch Interactive TFT meter and air-conditioning garnish. For the centre console, dashboard and door trim, a black wood garnish is installed while the headlining is accented with black finishing. Naturally, the black seats also have embroidery to identify this special edition.
Turbocharged VTEC engine
The technical specifications are similar to the standard CR-V with a 1.5-litre VTEC 4-cylinder engine with a CVT. Though it seems small, with Honda Earth Dreams Technology and turbocharging, the engine can produce up to 193 ps, with the maximum of 243 Nm of torque available from 2,000 rpm to 5,000 rpm. That sort of output is even greater than bigger engines and the advantage, besides saving weight, is that fuel consumption can be up to 14.3 kms per litre, it is claimed. With a full fuel tank of 57 litres, that can mean a range of at least 800 kms.
Convenience features
Convenience features include keyless entry, pushbutton starting, and even Remote Engine Start that allows the owner to start the engine from outside the car. This can allow the air-conditioning to be switched on to cool the interior on a hot day.
Another very useful feature which was only available in much more expensive models before is the Hands-Free Power Tailgate. No longer is there a need to even press a button as the tailgate will open on its own by placing a foot under the rear bumper which has a sensor. It’s great when both your hands are full with grocery bags.
Full Honda SENSING suite
The current CR-V was the first model in Malaysia to have HONDA SENSING, a suite of active safety systems which assist the driver. The Honda SENSING system in the latest CR-V has been enhanced to 8 systems, in addition to other standard active and passive safety features.
The current CR-V, introduced in 2017, was the first model to introduce Honda SENSING in Malaysia
There’s also Honda LaneWatch, an innovative blind-spot monitoring system that uses a camera (on the left door mirror) instead of sensors on the body. The camera captures a real-time image of the area along the left side of the car and shows it on the display screen on the dashboard so the driver is aware of any other vehicle very nearby.
To date, over 43,000 units of the current generation have been sold in Malaysia, while more than 108,000 units have been sold since the model was introduced in 2003 as the first locally-assembled model by Honda Malaysia.
The second generation of the CR-V was the first model assembled by Honda Malaysia at its own factory in Melaka in 2003.
Dominant in non-national SUV segment
“The CR-V continues to exceed our expectations with encouraging sales and is dominating the Non-National SUV segment with 24% of market share, as of August 2021. The popularity of the CR-V attests to the model’s attractive design, elegant interior and exceptional driving performance. In view of the good market acceptance, we are introducing the CR-V Black Edition to provide more options for our customers who prefer an SUV with a full package of spaciousness, comfort, safety, performance and next-level aesthetic,” said Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director and CEO, Madoka Chujo.
For more information on the CR-V Black Edition or to locate a showroom to view and experience Honda models in Malaysia, visit www.honda.com.my.
The resumption of activities in the car industry seems to be bringing a flood of new models… as if these were all parked in the yards just waiting to be launched. Of course, during the two and a half months of shutdown, plants were not turning out cars so there must be a rush to complete assembly since permission was given to restart from mid-August.
Launched into the market today are the locally assembled versions of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan and GLA, both offered in Progressive Line (A 200 and GLA 200) and AMG Line (A 250 and GLA 250). Assembling locally at the plant in Pekan, Pahang, means that the entry-level models can be priced lower due to incentives offered by the government. Depending on the model, reductions (compared to the price if the model was imported as a CBU) are up to RM17,100 as the following chart shows:
If the cars are purchased before the end of 2021, there are additional savings from the exemption of sales and service tax which is significant at these pricing levels. And because the models are assembled locally, the exemption is 100%, rather than 50% for models that are not assembled locally. So if you are keen on one, you have about two months left to get it at a cheaper price. Units are immediately available so you won’t be made to wait past the exemption period.
Returning to the new models, both are already familiar to Malaysians, having been available earlier. In fact, the latest GLA was introduced late last year but where the imported CBU GLA 250 had 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the locally assembled one does not. The A-Class Sedan, in its current form, has been in the market since April 2019.
The A 200 and GLA 200 have a 1.3-litre turbocharged engine (above), while the A 250 and GLA 250 have a more powerful 2-litre engine (below).
Same platform and engines
Both models sit on the same platform with MFA2 (Modular Front-wheel drive Architecture 2) which makes it possible for the plant to assemble two different bodystyles. They also share 4-cylinder turbocharged powertrains – the A 200 and GLA 200 using the 1332 cc M282 unit with 163 ps/250 Nm, and the A 250 and GLA 250 powered by the 1991 cc M260 engine that produces 224 ps/350 Nm. The smaller engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission while the bigger one has an 8-speed DCT.
Though the A-Class began life as a hatchback over 20 years ago, the sedan version that was added in 2018 has gained greater popularity, especially in markets like Malaysia. The formal appearance seems to be more appealing to customers and though defined as a ‘compact’ model, it still has pretty good interior space and a generous boot volume.
The cabin has the modern, avant-garde look that characterizes the current generation of models with the 3-pointed star. A lot of attention has been given to the dashboard design and its integration with the interior architecture. The designers completely dispensed with a cowl and created a wing-shaped form that extends without visual discontinuity from door to door. The five air vents are also a highlight of the dashboard with their high-quality turbine look and meticulously designed air guidance vanes.
Intelligent and intuitive MBUX
Also present in all models is the intuitively operated MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). The much-publicised MBUX system comes with standard features, but an owner can very quickly personalize the system with the wide range of options. The intelligent system keeps learning about the owner, enhancing personalization, and the software can also be updated periodically to provide new or improved features.
While the equipment of the Progressive Line is fairly comprehensive and includes extras like a Comfort-oriented suspension option, the AMG Line has sportier features that are in keeping with the high performance image of the sub-brand. These include the detailed grille and larger 19-inch AMG alloy wheels. Incidentally, all variants come with the same LED High Performance headlights as well.
Utility and variability
The GLA, being a SUV, offers more space inside and the occupants are also seated higher up. With ‘utility’ in the middle of its name, there is much utility value with flexibility to move people or cargo or both with variable layouts. The load floor is also height-adjustable and can be configured into a long, almost flat, space all the way to the front seats.
Both models come with many driving assistance systems which offer the driver cooperative support to avoid accidents. The systems can automatically activate the brakes if a collision is imminent and the driver has taken no action to prevent it. In the GLA 250, Blind Spot Assist warns of vehicles, including bicycles, in the blind zone and also signal the driver with a visual warning in the exterior mirror if a vehicle is driving past if the door is about to be opened.
The COVID-19 pandemic affected business activity all over the world, impacting sales and delaying projects. But now that the situation is easing, many activities are quickly resuming and some projects that may have been suspended can now proceed. One of them is the local assembly of Protons in Pakistan at the factory which was under construction since March 2019. Recently, the first units of the Saga began to come off the production lines, setting a new milestone for Proton.
The Saga is the first Proton model to be assembled by Al-Haj Automotive, the exclusive distributor of Proton models in Pakistan, at their new greenfield factory in Karachi. The plant, built with an initial investment of US$20 million (about RM83.1 million), will create 2,000 direct employment opportunities in its first three years of operations. It is estimated that a further 20,000 indirect jobs will also be created as a result of the new plant being established.
25,000 units a year
The initial capacity of 25,000 units a year is expected to meet the potential sales volume of the market which was about 128,000 units in 2020 but higher at around 193,000 units the year before the pandemic affected the country. As with the case in Malaysia, local assembly means that the retail prices can be lower due to more favourable taxation, a critical element in Proton’s aim to grow exports in the future.
Speaking during the roll-out ceremony, Hilal Khan Alfridi, Chief Executive Officer of Al-Haj Automotive said: “The successful assembly of the Proton Saga in Pakistan is the culmination of the hard-work and untiring efforts of Proton, the entire Al-Haj team, its suppliers and vendors. Even with COVID-19 restrictions in place, we continued to push to build our new assembly plant and as such, we are confident it will set new industry standards and enable us to introduce more products that meet the international quality levels set by Proton.”
X70 assembly to follow
The X70 SUV is to be second model assembled in Pakistan. Launched in December 2020 as an imported CBU model, the X70 met with positive response. Together with the final batch, the total number exported to Pakistan is 602 units. The first locally-assembled units are expected to be available by the end of this year.
The President of Pakistan viewing one of the first locally-assembled Proton cars.
“Despite COVID-19 severely affecting our project timelines in Pakistan, demand for Proton models in the country remains high for both the Proton Saga and Proton X70 attracting a strong following. Al-Haj has received 2,500 orders for the Saga and over 2,000 orders have been placed for the X70, so we wish to thank the customers for their belief in our products and especially their patience and understanding over the delays in receiving their cars,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.
“Now that the final shipment is on the way and local assembly has started for the Saga with the X70 to roll off the production line before the end of the year, we can finally work to catch up to market demand. This will allow Al-Haj Automotive and Proton to establish a strong market presence in the country to benefit future sales growth,” he added.
Final shipment of Proton X70s from Malaysia to Pakistan.
Sharing assembly expertise
With export sales being one of the pillars to achieving its long-term goals, Proton’s commitment to the Pakistan market extends beyond the shipment of CKD packs and consumable parts. It also includes human resources and there are currently 20 Proton staff specialising in various manufacturing related fields stationed in Karachi to assist in assembly operations.
“After 37 years of vehicle assembly experience, Proton has accumulated a wealth of in-house expertise that can be shared with our overseas partner. Having operated in various market conditions, we can quickly adapt to different scenarios, so we hope to be able to play a major role in ensuring the success of the brand in Pakistan,” Encik Roslan said.
MPVs evolved from window vans and were initially simple people-movers. Over the years, some manufacturers have found growing demand for more luxurious versions of such vehicles, with models like the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire being very popular.
To capture a slice of this growing market, Hyundai has also come out with a luxury MPV called the Staria and it is now available in Malaysia through Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM). Available in the 7-seat Premium version, the Staria is priced from RM358,888 (without insurance and with partial sales tax exemption). The price varies depending on the warranty period the customer wants. The base price comes with a 2-year or maximum of 50,000 km warranty. For another RM10,000 more, HSDM will provide a warranty of 5 years or maximum of 300,000 kms, plus 3 years (or maximum of 50,000 kms) free scheduled service.
Unique spaceship design theme
The Staria has a unique appearance which certainly makes it stand out anywhere. While MPVs typically have a cubic form which allows for the most efficient interior space, Hyundai’s designers have given it a design that is said to be like a spaceship. It’s a sleek streamlined form that is said to be like the curve of light that illuminates the Earth’s horizon at sunrise when viewed from space.
From any angle, the Staria’s styling draws attention. For instance, the front is embellished with horizontal daytime running lights (DRLs) and a positioning lamp, together running across the width of the vehicle, complemented by a bold, wide radiator grille with a unique pattern.
The same body colour for all frontal parts is used and gives a monolithic look that is modern and even futuristic. To highlight certain elements and give a premium look, brass chrome treatment is applied to the emblem, grille, headlamp bezels, front and rear bumpers, wheels, side mirrors and door handles.
The Staria’s 5253 mm long body sits on a 3273-mm wheelbase and has a 1997 mm. The beltline is low, allowing the side windows to be large and panoramic, which suggests a spacious interior – which is the case. The cruise ship-inspired interior has an open and unique atmosphere through its innovative design architecture which follows traditional Korean ‘hanok’ architecture.
Premium Relaxation Seats
The sense of spaciousness allows passengers to feel as if the outside scenes are an extension of the vehicle interior. Premium Relaxation Seats are provided in the second row and these have power recline as well as slide along the floor to vary cargo space. A one-touch relaxation mode makes the seats recline automatically to a posture that comfortably disperses the passenger’s weight and improves overall body balance. Even when the seats are reclined by this mode, there is enough room for an adult passenger to sit comfortably in the third row.
The cargo space available varies depending on the arrangement of the seating configurations. While the 7-seat configuration may have reduced cargo volume, the 2 and 3-seater versions which can be optimized for business use have maximum cargo space of almost 5,000 litres.
Futuristic dashboard theme
The futuristic theme of the exterior is also adopted on the dashboard with an advanced 10.25-inch front touchscreen and a button-type electronic shift lever. The digital cluster is located on top of the dashboard while the smart infotainment system includes a display from a wide-angle camera for the driver to view rear passengers.
To have the right atmosphere, there is a 64-colour ambient mood lamp. Its direct and indirect lighting can selectively illuminate the cockpit, console, doors and cargo areas. The premium ambience is enhanced by the Bose sound system which comes standard and is optimised for the large cabin volume.
Turbodiesel with shift-by-wire transmission
HSDM is still one of those companies that offers diesel-powered models and the Staria comes with a familiar 2.2-litre CRDi turbodiesel with an output of 177 ps/431 Nm, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission operated by a simple electronic shift-by-wire system. With the high-efficiency, air-cooled turbocharger that has an improved compressor and turbine wheel performance, low speed performance is stronger and peak torque is available from 1,500 rpm. HSDM doesn’t mention fuel compatibility although they would have done extensive testing with local biodiesel to ensure there are no issues.
As it can carry up to 7 people, the Staria would need the highest level of vehicle safety. It is equipped with a full suite of Hyundai Smartsense active safety and driving assistance technologies. With its large size, especially the long body, the Blind-spot View Monitor, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist systems would be of very useful.
“Hyundai is expanding its offerings to include more premium vehicles that offer innovative features for a unique in-car experience. The Staria Premium aims to offer unique value propositions for customers seeking a luxurious experience in an MPV,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Retail and Distribution, Sime Darby Motors.
While the Staria is launched today, units are not immediately available. Understandably, given the price, it is new territory for HSDM and remembering the times when they have sold high-priced models, they probably want to avoid having too many stocks in hand waiting to be sold. Customers have to specify what colour they want from the choice of five (white and mostly greyish or silver shades). Then depending on production slots, it could take 3 to 6 months before the vehicle gets to Malaysia for delivery.
When the Bugatti Chiron made its debut at the Geneva International Motorshow in 2016, it was announced that the production run would be limited to 500 units. Just over 4 years after the first deliveries to customers began in March 2017, over 460 units have been built and less than 40 build slots left to be allocated.
The final units being built or scheduled to be built are in Chiron Pur Sport and Chiron Super Sport form only. Joining the Chiron family in 2020, the Chiron Pur Sport built upon the exceptional Chiron foundation to offer customers a truly uncompromising hyper sports car that is optimized for dynamic agility and downforce.
With an entirely new aerodynamic, transmission and weight configuration, the Chiron Pur Sport effortlessly delivers thoroughbred performance. The model has a 50-kg weight reduction and firmer suspension, combined with a 1.90 metre rear wing and close-ratio transmission.
Ultimate Grand Tourisme
The Chiron Super Sport only appeared this year. As the quintessence of luxury and speed, the Chiron Super Sport has been designed to embrace supreme longitudinal speed without compromising luxury and comfort. It is regarded as the ultimate Grand Tourisme and defined by its longtail design, the Super Sport achieves extreme levels of aerodynamic efficiency, enabling the hyper sportscar to reach speeds of up to 440 km/h.
With an upgraded version of the Bugatti 8-litre W16 engine, the Super Sport has 1,600 ps, which is 100 ps more than the standard car. But even with 1,500 ps (and 1,600 Nm), the Chiron redefined the pinnacle of automotive engineering in the 2010s. Sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 2.4 seconds, it reached 200 km/ in 6.1 seconds, with the 300 km/h mark achieved in 13.1 seconds.
A world record-setter
As would be expected, Bugatti regularly set new records with the Chiron, solidifying its position in automotive history as one of the all-time greats. Its first production car record was achieved in 2017 when a Chiron went from 0 to 400 km/h to 0 within 41.96 seconds – the fastest time ever reached and officially measured at the time.
Continuing a run of unrelenting success, just 2 years later, the hypercar reached speeds once through to be unreachable by a road car. A near production prototype derivative crossed the 300 mph limit with a speed of 304.773 mph (490.484 km/h).
No shortage of customers
Even with the astronomical prices starting from US$3 million (about RM12.5 million), there has never been a shortage of customers from the first day orders were accepted. 18 months from its initial announcement, 300 of the 500 cars had been sold. This sales momentum has continued and despite global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Bugatti has steadily been receiving orders for the Chiron. The USA has taken the most Chirons, contributing significantly to a record-breaking quarter in Q3.
“Our discerning customer base across the world consists of true Bugatti connoisseurs. They are hard-working, self-made individuals who regard owning one or multiple Bugatti masterpieces as the realization of a dream. They understand the devotion behind the pioneering design and engineering of each Chiron model. Their appreciation for the provenance and performance of our hyper sports cars comes from a genuine passion for the brand,” said Hendrik Malinowski, Director of Sales and Operations.
Braking systems in today’s cars are no longer ‘dumb’ systems that perform only as well as the driver’s actions make them perform. Thanks to the integration of electronics and sensors, the operation of brakes is managed more by a computer working at lightning speeds to optimise stopping. The driver’s role is only to apply the pressure on the pedal, signalling the need to decelerate, and even that is now enhanced by features like Brake Assist which boosts braking pressure under certain conditions.
Brembo, a leading manufacturer of braking systems which also supplies to F1 teams, has developed a new pioneering intelligent braking system which uses artificial intelligence (AI) – SENSIFY. This system integrates current Brembo product portfolio of calipers, discs and friction materials with the most advanced software, digital technology and artificial intelligence. The result is a flexible and revolutionary platform that includes software, predictive algorithms and data management to control the brake system digitally.
Braking system becomes ecosystem
With SENSIFY, the braking system is no longer simply a sum of its parts but an ecosystem, where AI and software play an active role. Data collection is leveraged to improve the driver experience and allows the system to be constantly updated.
“By introducing SENSIFY, Brembo is pushing the boundaries of what is possible with a braking system, opening up entirely new opportunities to drivers to improve their experience on the road and customize brake response to their driving style. SENSIFY gives drivers the peace of mind they are looking for,” said Daniele Schillaci, Brembo’s Chief Executive Officer.
“SENSIFY fully embraces our vision – Turning Energy into Inspiration – and it’s another significant step forward in providing cutting-edge, innovative, intelligent and sustainable solutions to the automotive industry,” he added.
SENSE + SIMPLIFY
SENSIFY comes from the merging of two words: ‘SENSE’, a faculty by which a human perceives an external signal or stimulus, and ‘SIMPLIFY’ which means simplicity in installing at best the product in harmony with the vehicle.
Digital brain manages braking
The system is intuitive, responsive and smooth, providing the driver the expected performance when needed, combined with exceptional control. It has evolved naturally from Brembo’s heritage and know-how, combining the design of the best braking components with the integration of a digital brain and sensors that control each wheel independently. The result is more precise car handling, increased performance to give the driver more confidence.
Thanks to the optimized braking action on each wheel, combined with the absence of drag between pads and discs, emissions are minimized which is an environmental benefit.
SENSIFY also opens up opportunities in car design, offering great flexibility for carmakers and simplifying integration in any platform (electric and combustion engine) – from super sport to city car and, potentially, to the latest commercial vehicles. Brembo will offer it to the industry from the beginning of 2024.
Jaguar Land Rover (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (JLRM), a joint venture between Sime Darby Motors and SISMA Auto since 2014, will consolidate and strengthen Jaguar Land Rover retail business operations making it the sole importer and dealer in Malaysia.
The move will see the acquisition of dealer assets and transfer of staff from both Sime Darby Auto ConneXion and SISMA Auto and the consolidation of its central business operations into the Jaguar and Land Rover Dealership at Ara Damansara, Selangor. This outlet is currently the largest Jaguar Land Rover 4S facility within the South-East Asia region. JLRM, will also be operating its retail operations located in Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Penang.
According to Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia, this is part of its ambitious plan to improve service capabilities and drive long-term growth for the brand. JLRM’s consolidation exercise will put the company in a stronger position to serve its customers, whilst optimising retail and distribution costs, as well as overheads.
“This consolidation will be a positive move towards better operational efficiency with elevated levels of premium services which will help drive long-term growth for the company. These measures will leverage on the company’s vast experience and accumulated knowhow through the decades to strengthen its processes and deliver more value to our customers,” he added.
JLRM expects this consolidation to continue to elevate customer experiences, differentiating it from the mass premium brands. Together with digitalization initiatives, it plans to invest more on technology and will increasingly deploy digitalisation over the next few years to improve its service capacity to deliver top-notch services to its customers.
The joint venture between SISMA Auto and Sime Darby Motors brings together more than 60 years of cumulative experience in the automotive business. Both entities have been credited with outstanding performances by securing top positions in the Retailer of the Year Award 2020/21 title for their superlative service and dedication to customers.
Tuan Syed Ahmad Muzri said customers can expect more luxurious and convenient services from Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia. “Those who wish to join the Jaguar and Land Rover family will find even more value and options, available at the 167,586 sq.ft. Ara Damansara facility which houses both new and approved Jaguar Land Rover pre-owned vehicles under one roof,” he said.
JLRM’s business includes the sale of pre-owned models, and the available stocks can be checked online at the company’s website.
JLRM will continue to invest heavily in training to grow the number of Jaguar Land Rover Master level 4 Technicians and Electric Vehicle Technology Certified Technicians in ensuring owners get the most from their vehicles. Sales and service advisors are also trained according to Jaguar Land Rover standards so that customers will always feel confident and secure as part of their purchase and ownership experiences.
Service Outreach programmes will also be curated to bring coverage to the southern region of Johore Bahru whilst it assumes retail coverage of the Northern region via its outlet in Penang Island.
The New Land Rover Defender was launched in Malaysia this week.All-electric I-PACE is one of the models that Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will have in its showrooms.
As for product offerings, there will be new models in the near future from both the Land Rover and Jaguar brands. These include the Jaguar F-Pace SUV, XF Executive Sedan and I-Pace all-electric performance SUV. From Land Rover, there will be the Defender 90 following the recent launch of the New Defender 110 and an all-new Range Rover (to be revealed tomorrow).
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