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SpareXHub to hold surplus BMW, MINI and Volkswagen parts sale next month

SpareXHub, a Malaysian-based e-commerce platform for discounted, genuine auto spare parts will be organizing a 2-week long sale next month. The sale is for genuine BMW, MINI and Volkswagen car spare parts and there will be discounts of up to 85%. The sale will take place from September 1 – September 14, 2021 between 10 am and 6 pm (10 am to 1 pm on Saturday) at Aramex PJ, No 12, Jalan Tandang, Seksyen 51, Petaling Jaya 46050 in Selangor.

New, original and genuine
All items offered by SpareXHub are guaranteed to be new and original but at discounted prices. This means that you can save money getting genuine parts (usually the best option for replacements) instead of aftermarket products by other companies.

*SpareXHub has a wide range of parts of many different brands and models, and all the parts are original as well as genuine.*

SpareXHub has over 2,500 BMW and MINI spare parts and 500 Volkswagen parts. These range from regular maintenance service items such as filters to body parts such as bumpers. There are also interesting genuine accessories if you want to enhance the looks of your car.

Brand experts can offer assistance
With more than 100+ years of experience in the team, SpareX can cater to the needs of automotive stockists, independent workshops and car owners. Brand experts will be on hand to ensure you purchase the right parts for your car and provide you with the necessary knowledge, information and guidance.

*Brand specialists are on hand to provide assistance in selecting the right part as well as offer advice.*

Appointment required
All customer visits are strictly by appointment only. This means that prior registration and confirmation will be required. Once this is done, the organizers will be ready for your arrival and to ensure that all COVID-19 SOPs are strictly adhered to. Customers are encouraged to use the SpareX online platform and e-payment services for a more seamless process. Click on this Google form link to book an appointment slot.

For more information about SpareXHub or to find a part for your car, visit the SpareXHub website at www.sparexhub.com. You may also contact a representative of SpareXHub directly via Whatsapp at 018-205 0120 or via email at sales2@sparexhub.com.

Kia customises design of new Sportage SUV for European market

The Kia Sportage was one of the Korean carmaker’s early SUV models, developed using the platform from a Mazda van. It entered the market in 1993 and over almost 3 decades since then, it has evolved from a basic small SUV to a modern and larger crossover. For all the generations, Kia has had just one design for global markets but soon, there will be a model developed specifically for Europe.

The dedicated model reflects the importance of the European markets to Kia, where sales have been strong. While the latest global version has significantly increased in size, the European version also spiritually succeeds the fourth generation as the fifth generation of the brand’s most popular SUV.

New design language
These are the first official sketches released by Kia Europe show Kia’s new design language – Opposites United – influencing every aspect of its appearance and character. Its design builds on the theme ‘Bold for Nature’ and pays homage to nature’s perfection and simplicity whilst connecting with the brand’s new design direction.

The sketches suggest a sporty, assertive SUV with a daring and intricate front-end design. A closer look shows a detail-orientated black grille graphic spanning the width of the face. A fresh interpretation of Kia’s iconic floating signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille combines with distinctive boomerang-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lamps) and Matrix LED headlamps.

Kia Sportage Europe 2021 — *The European version of the new Sportage differs main at the rear where there is a different angle for the roof pillars compared to the global model (shown below).*

In profile, a muscular swooping fastback rear creates a strong and distinctive road presence. The interior design of the new Sportage is also said to push styling boundaries, setting the tone for the next-generation Sportage line-up.

New architecture
State-of-the-art connectivity tech, responsive and highly efficient advanced powertrains and the very latest passive, active and ADAS safety features can be expected. Developed on a new architecture, the Sportage has also been tuned to offer optimal drive and handling characteristics for European roads.

Representing another first for the Sportage range, the sketches show a black roof that helps to further accentuate the sporting profile of the all-new SUV, while also highlighting a dynamic C-pillar design treatment. A unique black bumper design is used at the rear end.

Fuel Price Updates For August 26 – September 1, 2021

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and you may not show symptoms but can spread the coronavirus to others at home or in public. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

Flux can offer you an additional income source if you have a car to loan

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world, affecting millions in various ways. With movement restrictions, even travelling around is limited. This has of course meant that the car you own is used much less than before. Sure, you are saving on fuel bills and toll charges as you drive much less but for many, there are still the monthly instalments to keep paying and periodic maintenance costs.

At some point, you may wonder if you need to own a car any longer, especially since there are e-hailing services that can provide safe and comfortable transport. Selling off the car may seem a good idea but with average used car values down, it may not be a practical move and might not resolve the loan issue without having to come out with some additional money to settle the balance owing.

Individual owners can now join
Flux, a car subscription platform which entered the market in 2018, has a proposition that may interest you. The company has so far been sourcing its inventory from automotive retailers but now it is offering the same business opportunity to individual car owners, allowing them to host and subscribe out their cars to over 4,000 Flux members.

The advantage of becoming a ‘Host’ with Flux is that you can then earn some money with your car which is hardly being used. This can help to offset the instalments and maintenance costs. There is also protection while the car is used by others as Flux provides insurance coverage and, with telematics, keeps an eye on the car’s usage as if it was their own asset.

Vellfire owner can get up to RM9,000
According to Flux, you can earn up to RM9,000 every month if you provide a Toyota Vellfire or up to RM2,100 if it is a Toyota Vios; a Honda CR-V could earn you up to RM3,050 a month. Almost any model is accepted but it will be inspected prior to Flux accepting it for listing. If the condition is good and the terms are agreeable, then the car will be listed on the platform, along with a picture. A Concierge will be assigned to coordinate the collection of the car.

Assuming your car is in constant demand, you should be able to get income every month from Flux. The money due to you will be paid into a bank account you designate, and the company guarantees prompt payment.

*Two of the many models available from Flux.*

“The past 18 months have been tough on everyone. That’s why we must all do our part to help our community. At Flux, we wanted to offer a way Malaysians can bolster their income without requiring much effort. Whilst other car-sharing services focus on short-term rentals which require you to manage each and every trip, Flux helps turn your car into a long-term money maker without costing you any time or effort.” said Aziz Ayman, Founder & CEO of Flux.

Perodua resumes sales operations, to reconsider target of 240,000 units for the year

As with other many other car companies, Perodua has also resumed operations of its sales, aftersales centres, and related facilities nationwide. The re-opening of Perodua’s sales and aftersales centres comes after the resumption of its manufacturing activities at its headquarters complex in Sungai Choh, Rawang, Selangor recently. In total, Perodua has 191 sales, 197 service and 69 Body & Paint centres nationwide.

“Deliveries have started in stages this week and we expect that we can see more Perodua vehicles produced and registered in the coming weeks,” said Perodua President & CEO, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

*Standard Operating Procedures will be strictly followed at all sales and aftersales centres for the protection of customers and employees.*.

Dato’ Zainal Abidin thanked Perodua customers for their patience, understanding and loyalty. We expect to be able to deliver nearly all existing orders within the year,” he said.

Impact of long closure
The effects of the shutdown of over 2 months ordered by the government under the Movement Control Order has had an impact on sales figures, as evident by the data compiled by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) up till the end of July.

“We are currently evaluating the impact of the lockdown that was introduced on June 1 2021 to our operations and we will announce our revised targets for the year soon,” Dato Zainal said. The Malaysian carmaker had set a target of 240,000 units for 2021 but after 7 months, its cumulative sales have reached only about 41% of that number.

Strict adherence to SOPs
While Perodua has met the required criteria for vaccinations of its employees – which determine the workforce capacity at the factory – the company has also established safety guidelines for its customers when visiting its sales and aftersales centres throughout the country. In accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures specified by the Health Ministry, these safety requirements include being fully vaccinated, wearing a facemask, making an appointment at the sales and/or service outlet before making a visit and to always observe physical distancing. All visitors must, of course, register on MySejahtera as well as have their temperatures checked.

To know more about Perodua models and the locations of showrooms and service centres, visit www.perodua.com.my.

The Ultimate Range Rover

Special Vehicle Operations, Land Rover’s unit with a specialist team of designers, engineers and technicians dedicated to amplifying the performance, luxury and capability attributes, has develop a special edition Range Rover Sport SVR which is described as the ‘ultimate Range Rover’. Orders are being accepted by Land Rover dealers worldwide from today.

Hand-finished exterior colours
There are 3 hand-finished exterior paint choices – Gloss Maya Blue and Gloss Marl Grey colours, both of which are exclusive to the Ultimate edition, and Satin Ligurian Black. Delicate and highly reflective fine white glass flake particles in the solid base coat give an intense star-like sparkle. Each colour features a Gloss Narvik Black contrast roof.

The SV Bespoke team’s attention to detail extends to Black knurled Range Rover lettering on the bonnet and tailgate, with exclusive contrasting Fuji White edging which is also used for side fender accents. A body-coloured carbonfibre vented bonnet, 22-inch 5 split-spoke forged alloy wheels and black brake calipers complement the SVR’s black roof, door mirror caps, front grilles and grille surrounds, front wing detail and tailgate finishers.

Fastest, most power Land Rover model
The Range Rover Sport SVR is the fastest and most powerful Land Rover model ever produced for sale. Now in its second generation, the current model is powered by a 575 ps version of the 5-litre V8 supercharged engine, which produces 700 Nm of torque. That output gives the SUV as capability to go from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 4.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 283 km/h.

“Range Rover Sport SVR redefined Land Rover high-performance capability when it was introduced in 2014. We’ve sold more than 20,000 examples to date and demand for the SVR’s characterful mix of power, luxury and thrilling dynamics continues to grow every year. The SV Bespoke personalisation features of this Ultimate edition elevate its appeal even further,” said Mark Turner, Commercial Director, Land Rover SV Bespoke.

Craftsmanship throughout vehicle
The craftsmanship of the SV Bespoke team is also evident inside. Specially commissioned chrome-finished SV Bespoke B-pillar badges, black anodised metal gearshift paddles and Ultimate edition illuminated treadplates enhance the recommended Ebony and Cirrus interior, which incorporates SVR-embossed lightweight Performance Seats in Windsor leather and contrasting Suedecloth.

“Our SV Bespoke design team is always pushing the boundaries to create stunning vehicle colours with enhanced individuality. This is the first SV Bespoke edition we’ve offered with beautifully textured and reflective glass flake paint finishes, which puts the Range Rover Sport SVR Ultimate edition at the forefront of our innovative approach to personalisation,” explained Hannah Custance, Design Manager, SV Colour and Materials.

Visit www.landrover.com.my to know more about Range Rover models available in Malaysia.

Most Volkswagen showrooms in Malaysia open for business again

In line with the National Recovery Plan and the latest list of permitted activities and businesses, most authorised Volkswagen showrooms in Malaysia have resumed operations. However, those located in Melaka, Johor, Kedah, Pahang, and Kelantan are still awaiting approval to operate.

To ensure the health and safety of both visitors and employees, all the showrooms will adhere to strict Government guidelines and #SafeHands measures. These include MySejahtera registration and temperature scans, mandatory facemask usage, regular sanitisation of showrooms and display cars, and others specified in the Standard Operating Procedures.

*Whether visiting the showroom or service, all visitors must follow the Standard Operating procedures which now include the requirement for full vaccination.*

Must be fully vaccinated
Only fully vaccinated visitors are allowed, and they should have completed no less than 14 or 28 days (depending on the vaccine taken) after receiving their vaccination. Visitors are encouraged to make an appointment prior to their visits by contacting their preferred Volkswagen dealer whether to the showroom or service centre.

“The closure of showrooms in the past months affected our business performance, but we look forward to seeing the industry reopen and move forward, together with the support of our dealers,” said Managing Director of VPCM, Erik Winter, who welcomes the government’s decision to reopen sales and manufacturing operations.

*Use Volkswagen’s online channel to buy Volkswagen’s global bestseller in August and you can save extra money.*

Special offers for Merdeka month
In conjunction with the reopening of showrooms and the upcoming Merdeka holiday, authorised Volkswagen dealers will be hosting a virtual showroom event on their social media channels this August 27 – 31. As part of the celebration, Volkswagen is offering exclusive online savings of RM4,500 on the Tiguan Allspace Highline and RM7,500 on the Passat R-Line until August 31, 2021. Remember that there are additional savings as sales tax is exempted until the end of this year.

For information on the Volkswagen product range and locations of dealers in Malaysia, visit www.volkswagen.com.my.

NOVITEC’s SPOFEC unit refines and enhances performance of Rolls-Royce Ghost

To own a Rolls-Royce would be a dream for most people but for those who can make their dreams come true, personalisation of the car is now a very common thing. Rolls-Royce says that virtually every car they have sold in recent years has had some degree of personalisation provided by their Bespoke division.

Some owners may prefer to have the services of other companies and for this, they can contact SPOFEC, a unit in the NOVITEC Group which can refine the cars further. They can now offer their services for the latest Ghost, the sportiest interpretation of a Rolls-Royce sedan ever. In fact, SPOFEC works only on Rolls-Royce cars, which is how its name came about (SPirit OF ECstasy).

The company has developed a customization range for the car which gives the Ghost even greater driving dynamics and an even more extravagant appearance. For example, SPOFEC engine tuning raises the output of the twin-turbo 12-cylinder engine to 685 bhp (114 bhp more) and also bumps peak torque to 958 Nm. This cuts the sprint time from 0 – 100 km/h to 4.5 seconds although the top speed remains limited to 250 km/h.

To match the improved driving dynamics, SPOFEC gives the new Ghost an even more athletic design with carbonfibre bodywork components that feature sporty and elegant styling. SPOFEC forged wheels with a diameter of 22 inches developed in cooperation with US rim manufacturer Vossen fill out the wheel wells perfectly. With the SPOFEC suspension module, the ride height is lowered by about 40 mm.

A standard peak output of 571 bhp/850 Nm mean that there are quite a few reserves in the 6.75-litre engine of the Ghost. SPOFEC engine specialists have programme the plug-and-play N-TRONIC module for the electronic engine control unit which introduces new mapping for injection and ignition. There is also a moderate increase in the boost pressure.

SPOFEC optionally underscores these significantly improved dynamics with a more thrilling sound as well. To this end, the company developed a stainless sport exhaust with actively controlled exhaust flaps. It enables the driver to select either a decidedly discreet or a very powerful exhaust note from inside the cockpit by remote control.

For a sporty-elegant touch, the designers at SPOFEC developed tastefully styled and aerodynamically efficient bodywork components for both wheelbase variants of the Ghost. The components are produced from lightweight yet high-strength carbonfibre.

The SPOFEC-designed front fascia gives a fresh face with large air intakes making for a visually striking appearance. The front end also generates less front-axle lift at high speeds and thus further optimizes the directional stability. The new aerodynamic-enhancement component optionally also comes with LED position markers and perfectly transitions to the likewise new SPOFEC front fenders. These fenders feature a distinctive air outlet behind the wheel arch on either side.

The wheels have 9 pairs of twin-spokes extending all the way to the outer flange, characterizing the SPOFEC SP2 design. In sizes 9.5Jx22 at the front and 10.5Jx22 on the rear axle, they are fitted with tyres of sizes 265/35 ZR 22 and 295/30 ZR 22 and optimally fill out the available space under the wheel arches.

The SPOFEC CAN-Tronic suspension module is specifically calibrated to work with the 22-inch tyres. At speeds up to 140 km/h, the new programming of the Ghost’s air suspension lowers the vehicle by about 40 mm compared to the production car. At higher speeds, the vehicle body automatically reverts to the standard level.

Over 190 Petron stations open food banks for local communities

Petron stations around Malaysia have organize the ‘Jom Bantu Food Bank and Community Table’ for communities affected by the pandemic. Inspired by the message “Take what you need, Give what you can,” these community pantries located in over Petron service stations aim to provide those in need with easy access to essential items while giving others an opportunity to help vulnerable sectors.

In a show of solidarity and support, local residents and customers have been contributing to these community tables, while Petron employees donated cash and other items. In Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Petron Jalan Ulam North service station supported local farmers by sourcing fresh fruit and vegetables from them.

“We source fresh fruits and vegetables from our local, rural farmers as a way to support local businesses. We then give it to the people in need. The 2-in-1 initiative is our way to help the public during this pandemic,” said Philomena Munang, dealer of Petron Ulam North.

Basic and essential items for free
The community tables are stocked with rice, sugar, salt, flour, cooking oil, biscuits, eggs, noodles, canned food, dried food, toilet paper, and soap, among other basic items. These will be available at the stations and free for those who might need them.

In Kedah, Petron Jalan Lunas FI offered ‘whole fresh chicken’ to the community. “I strongly support the Petron Foodbank initiative to help those who are in need. We came up with an idea to give away ‘whole chicken’ in addition to the canned food and dry food stock on the food bank shelves. At least, they can enjoy a chicken meal with their family and put a big smile on their children’s faces,” said Mohamad Zaini bin Yahya, dealer of Petron Jalan Lunas FI.

“With the current pandemic situation, with many losing their jobs, we are trying our best to contribute to society. We have participated in the Jom Bantu Food Bank initiative since 3 July. At Petron Sg. Besi Toll Southbound, we provide food resources such as rice, cooking oil, flour, eggs and many more to those in need. We also receive donations from the public to support our foodbank program,” added Sukinah Zulkifli of Petron Sg Besi Toll Southbound.

“This is the second year that we have set up food banks at our service stations. We are happy to partner with our dealers in showing compassion and exercising our corporate social responsibility. We also thank our many customers who have contributed to this cause,” said Choong Kum Choy, Head of Retail and Commercial Business of Petron Malaysia.

Collaboration with other parties
Petron also collaborated with KPJ Healthcare (KPJ) in launching eight KPJ food banks at selected stations to further reached out to those deserving people under this initiative. The first set-up by KPJ in Petron New Larkin opened on July 23 and was well received by the community.

“The response has been overwhelming. The food bank initiative allowed us to connect with others, creating stronger community bonds while contributing to society. It’s not all about money nor popularity. It’s about being able to be that someone who makes a person look forward to tomorrow with hope,” said Azura Abu Bakar, Dealer of Petron New Larkin Johor Bahru.

Petron stations in Johor are also working with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Johor for the collection of food items at 10 Petron service stations. The food collection invites the public to donate food and essential items, which will then be distributed to targeted groups by the ministry’s state division.

“We hope to reach more beneficiaries through the concerted efforts of our dealers, KPJ, MDTCA Johor, and our employees so that no one is left behind. This is our humble contribution to help ease the burden of those in need. We are in this together and we will try to help in any way we can,” said Mr. Choong.

Earlier in May, Petron launched a donation drive allowing PMiles card members to donate points to B40 families in need of groceries. Under the ‘PetronMyKasih Jom Derma’ donation programme, each P-Miles point donated will be converted into cash and vested into MyKasih Foundation. The programme will run until August 31, 2021.

Eligible vehicles for the 2022 World Car of the Year Awards

Now in its 18th year, the annual World Car of the Year (WCOTY) Awards for 2022 has 17 vehicles eligible provisionally, based on information available at this time. The list may be updated until December 1, 2021 when it becomes final, and no further changes can be made. The World Car Awards are administered by a not-for-profit association, under the guidance of a Steering Committee as well as a group of individual advisors.

The 2022 awards season and the ‘Road to the World Car Awards’ journey was to have officially started at the New York International Auto Show this month but the motorshow was cancelled. A new highlight of the 2022 awards program will be the debut of the World Electric Vehicle of the Year award. This new award, which supersedes the World Green Car award, is intended to recognize, support and celebrate the global transition to electrically-powered vehicles that is now underway and the efforts of automakers around the world in developing these climate-conscious vehicles.

The models eligible for WCOTY must be produced in volumes of at least 10,000 units/year; must be priced below the luxury-car level in their primary markets; and must be ‘on-sale’ in at least 2 major markets (eg China, Europe, India, Japan, Korea, Latin America, or the USA) on at least two separate continents within the period January 1, 2021 and March 30, 2022.

*Some of the contenders for the 2022 World Car of the Year. Even entry-level models have a chance to win the overall award, as the Mazda2 did in 2008 and the Volkswagen Polo in 2010.*

For the 2022 event, there will again be categories as well for World Performance Car, World Urban Car, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year, as well as World Luxury Car class, depending on type and pricing.

The eligible models on the current list for the 2022 WCOTY are:
Audi Q4 e-tron/Q5 Sportback e-tron
BMW i4
Citroen C5 X
Genesis G70
Honda Civic
Hyundai Ionic 5 | Hyundai Staria | Hyundai Tucson
Jeep Grand Cherokee/Grand Cherokee L
Kia EV6 | Kia Sportage
Lexus NX
Mitsubishi Outlander
Subaru BRZ | Subaru Outback
Toyota Corolla Cross | Toyota GR86

PREVIOUS OVERALL AWARD WINNERS
2021 – Volkswagen ID.4
2020 – Kia Telluride
2019 – Jaguar I-PACE
2018 – Volvo XC60
2017 – Jaguar F-PACE
2016 – Mazda MX-5
2015 – Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2014 – Audi A3
2013 – Volkswagen Golf
2012 – Volkswagen UP!
2011 – Nissan LEAF
2010 – Volkswagen Polo
2009 – Volkswagen Golf 7
2008 – Mazda2
2007 – Lexus LS460
2006 – BMW 3-Series
2005 – Audi A6

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English

SpareXHub to hold surplus BMW, MINI and Volkswagen parts sale next month

Kia customises design of new Sportage SUV for European market

Fuel Price Updates For August 26 – September 1, 2021

Flux can offer you an additional income source if you have a car to loan

Perodua resumes sales operations, to reconsider target of 240,000 units for the year

The Ultimate Range Rover

Most Volkswagen showrooms in Malaysia open for business again

NOVITEC’s SPOFEC unit refines and enhances performance of Rolls-Royce Ghost

Eligible vehicles for the 2022 World Car of the Year Awards

SpareXHub to hold surplus BMW, MINI and Volkswagen parts sale next month

Kia customises design of new Sportage SUV for European market

Fuel Price Updates For August 26 – September 1, 2021

Flux can offer you an additional income source if you have a car to loan

Perodua resumes sales operations, to reconsider target of 240,000 units for the year

The Ultimate Range Rover

Most Volkswagen showrooms in Malaysia open for business again

NOVITEC’s SPOFEC unit refines and enhances performance of Rolls-Royce Ghost

Eligible vehicles for the 2022 World Car of the Year Awards

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