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China Unveils Advanced Aircraft Carrier With Next-Gen Launch Tracks

New images of China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, have been unveiled, showcasing next-generation launch tracks capable of catapulting a wider range of aircraft from its deck. First unveiled in June 2022, the domestically designed and built Fujian is yet to undergo its first sea trials.

The Fujian surpasses its predecessors, the Shandong commissioned in 2019 and the Liaoning, acquired from Ukraine in 1998, in terms of size and technological advancements. Images broadcasted on state television depict the Fujian being towed by a smaller vessel, revealing all three tracks of its electromagnetic catapult system on the deck.’

While sea trials are pending, the carrier has undergone various tests, including mooring tests. In November, the Fujian initiated launch tests for its electromagnetic catapult system, distinguishing it as the only carrier, besides the US Ford-class carriers, equipped with the latest Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).

China’s version of EMALS enhances its capability to launch a broader spectrum of aircraft compared to its predecessors, Shandong and Liaoning. Additionally, it is touted to be more reliable and energy-efficient, marking a significant milestone in China’s military modernisation efforts.

President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on increased combat-readiness and technological advancements aligns with the trajectory of modernising the Chinese military, with the Fujian showcasing its commitment to achieving these goals. The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions, with some speculating potential military actions concerning Taiwan, particularly ahead of the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army in 2027. The carrier’s advanced features and capabilities underscore China’s commitment to strengthening its naval prowess on the global stage.

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Introduces Changes for Enhanced Aerodynamics

Toyota’s iconic 2024 GR Corolla is making waves in the automotive industry with unconventional yet intriguing updates aimed at elevating vehicle performance and aerodynamics.

In a commitment to continuous innovation, Toyota has introduced subtle yet impactful changes to the 2024 GR Corolla. Among these updates are new bolts, air ducts, and a noteworthy addition – four strips of specially designed aluminium tape. This unconventional addition serves a unique purpose, addressing the often-overlooked phenomenon of electrostatic discharge in automotive design.

The concept of electrostatic discharge comes into play as a vehicle moves, causing both the car body and the surrounding air to develop a positive charge. This phenomenon can lead to repelling forces that subtly affect airflow around the vehicle. The revelation of this challenge emerged during the development of the facelifted Toyota 86, where inconsistent test results were observed due to electrostatic issues.

Toyota’s solution involves the integration of patented aluminium tape, strategically placed to manage electrostatic discharge and, concurrently, enhance aerodynamics. This innovative approach showcases Toyota’s commitment to understanding the intricacies of vehicle dynamics and pushing the boundaries of design.

Pro drifter Ken Gushi, an early adopter of the 2024 upgrade kit on his 2023 GR Corolla, has provided subjective yet promising feedback. Gushi noted a significant difference in his vehicle’s driving dynamics post-upgrade. While awaiting confirmation from controlled testing, Gushi’s observations underscore the potential impact of these minor modifications. The improvements hint at the transformative power of seemingly small tweaks in fine-tuning and optimising vehicle performance.

Toyota’s 2024 GR Corolla sets a precedent for innovative design thinking in the automotive industry, proving that even minor changes can lead to substantial enhancements in driving dynamics and overall performance.

Porsche’s Upcoming Taycan Variant Shatters Nürburgring Lap Record

In a sensational feat, Porsche has unveiled its upcoming Taycan variant, setting a new lap record at the iconic Nürburgring circuit. Driven by Porsche development ace Lars Kern, the pre-series Taycan achieved a remarkable 7:07.55 lap time, surpassing its predecessor, the 2022 Taycan Turbo S, by an impressive 26 seconds. This performance even outpaced the 992 911 Turbo S, firmly establishing the electric vehicle’s prowess.

Identified by its distinct rear spoiler, the Taycan variant, speculated to be named Turbo GT, is expected to lead a mid-cycle update for the Taycan model, which entered the scene four years ago. This achievement highlights the electric car’s ability to sustain high performance consistently, addressing a common concern associated with electric vehicles.

Under the hood, the Turbo GT is anticipated to boast three motors, delivering a baseline power level exceeding 800PS. The two motors at the rear axle promise enhanced power distribution and torque vectoring, contributing to the car’s versatile performance capabilities.

Porsche enthusiasts and the automotive community eagerly await the official unveiling of the Taycan Turbo GT, expected within the first half of 2024. The company plans to release additional details and full footage of the record-breaking lap in March, adding to the excitement surrounding this groundbreaking electric vehicle.

BYD Achieves Record Sales of 3.02 Million NEVs in 2023

Chinese automaker BYD has reported a significant milestone in its electric vehicle (EV) sales, with a record-breaking 3,024,417 new energy vehicles sold in 2023. This figure represents a remarkable year-on-year increase of 62.3%, surpassing the previous year’s sales record of 1,863,494 vehicles.

The impressive growth in sales is attributed to BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicle production, with 3,045,231 units manufactured in 2023—a 62.2% increase compared to the previous year. The commercial vehicle segment played a crucial role, recording sales of 11,511 units, including electric buses, trucks, and other vehicles, experiencing a notable uptick of 88.2%.

In the passenger car business, BYD’s sales reached 3,012,906 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 62.2%. Notably, the sales of pure electric models surged, totalling 1,574,822 units with a robust year-on-year growth of 72.8%. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 52.3% of total passenger car sales, reflecting increasing consumer preference for electric mobility.

 

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Koenigsegg Jesko ‘Attack’ With 24-Karat Gold Accents Hits The Streets

Koenigsegg has just delivered a jaw-dropping Jesko ‘Attack’ to a lucky owner, featuring an exterior entirely clad in glossy exposed carbon fibre with exquisite 24-karat gold leaf accents. Limited to just 125 units worldwide, the Jesko replaces the renowned Agera and has quickly become a coveted hypercar.

Taking inspiration from the iconic Agera RS named ‘Phoenix,’ owned by real estate mogul Manny Khoshbin, this Jesko boasts clear-coated exposed carbon fibre body panels adorned with delicate gold specks. The opulent use of 24-karat gold leaf is evident in various exterior elements, including front canards, wing mirror arms, a central front fascia element, side skirt aerodynamic flics, rear wing endplates, Koenigsegg badges, and roof accents.

This specific Jesko is the ‘Attack’ variant, emphasising track-focused performance with aggressive aerodynamics to enhance downforce. Notable features include an imposing rear wing, an enhanced front splitter, and a distinctive diffuser. Koenigsegg offers an alternative ‘Absolut’ version tailored for high-speed performance, omitting the rear wing and potentially reaching speeds exceeding 480km/h.

Under the Jesko’s hood lies a formidable 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating 1,280hp on petrol or an astounding 1,600hp on E85 fuel. The powertrain is seamlessly paired with Koenigsegg’s innovative 9-speed multi-clutch transmission, delivering exhilarating performance to the rear wheels.

Limited production, combined with the exquisite gold-accented carbon fibre exterior, makes this Jesko a true collector’s item, embodying Koenigsegg’s commitment to exclusivity and cutting-edge automotive engineering.

Datsun 240Z Transformed into Tesla-Powered Batmobile

In a rare instance where a virtual car rendering transforms into a tangible reality, the Datsun 240Z has undergone an extraordinary metamorphosis into an actual vehicle, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

The concept originated in the mind of Ash Thorp, renowned for designing the Batmobile featured in The Batman movie (2022). Collaborating with Carlos Pecino from Make Haste Corp, the matte black Datsun emerged as the fruit of their partnership, marking their inaugural joint project.

Several design elements set this transformed Datsun apart. Notably, the side cameras, serving as mirrors, are ingeniously concealed within dedicated housings in front of the doors. The rear of the car boasts an immensely oversized diffuser, complemented by carbon fibre wheel caps adorning BBS multi-spoke alloys. The overall styling draws inspiration from the Batmobile, evident in the sharp side skirts.

Under the hood, the original 2.4-litre inline-six engine has made way for a Tesla-derived fully electric powertrain. Power is supplied by a Model S electric motor situated on the rear axle, providing the revamped Datsun with an impressive 401hp, nearly three times the output of the original 240Z. Despite a slight increase in weight to around 1133kg, the car maintains agility.

Inside the car, only a few components hail from the original 240Z, with a custom layout featuring three central dials, a steering column sourced from the Chevy Equinox, a digital instrument cluster, and a substantial centre console.

This real-life manifestation of a virtual concept showcases the boundary-pushing creativity and collaboration within the automotive design realm, bringing an imaginative vision to the streets.

JDM Companies Working On High-Performance Digital Chip

In a significant collaborative effort, twelve leading companies from the automotive, electrical component, and semiconductor sectors joined hands to establish the “Advanced SoC Research for Automotive” (ASRA) on December 1st. The primary goal of ASRA is to conduct research and development for high-performance digital semiconductors, specifically System on Chip (SoC), intended for use in automobiles.

Participating Companies:

  • Automotive Manufacturers: Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Mazda Motor Corporation, Nissan Motor Corporation, SUBARU Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation
  • Electrical Component Manufacturers: Denso Corporation, Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd.
  • Semiconductor Companies: Cadence Design Systems, Japan, MIRISE Technologies Corporation, Renesas Electronics Corporation, Socionext Inc., Synopsys Japan

Given that modern automobiles utilise approximately 1,000 semiconductors, with varied applications, SoCs are particularly crucial for autonomous driving technology and multimedia systems. These applications demand cutting-edge semiconductor technology to achieve advanced computing power.

ASRA, with a focus on achieving high levels of safety and reliability required for automotive applications, will be spearheaded by automakers. The collaboration aims to leverage the combined technological and experiential knowledge of electrical components and semiconductor companies. The consortium plans to explore chiplet technology for SoCs, combining different semiconductor types.

Advantages of Chiplet Technology Include:

  1. Higher performance and multifunctionality
  2. Higher yield chips
  3. Timely commercialisation of SoCs tailored to end-user (automotive companies) requirements

 

ASRA has set ambitious goals, aiming to establish in-vehicle chiplet technology by 2028 and intends to install SoCs in mass-produced vehicles from 2030 onward. By capitalising on Japan’s technological capabilities and extensive experience in automotive, electrical components, and semiconductors, ASRA plans to collaborate with industry, government, and academia to position itself as a world-leading technology research group.

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Xiaomi Steps Into The EV World With The SU7 – Another Tesla Killer?

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has officially stepped into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its highly anticipated SU7 sedan. It is positioned as a high-performance electric vehicle, boasting features that could potentially challenge competitors like Tesla and Porsche.

The SU7, short for “Speed Ultra 7,” is available in two variants: a standard rear-wheel-drive model and a Max version equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive. Xiaomi claims that the vehicle offers acceleration speeds surpassing those of rival EVs. Let’s delve into the key specifications of each version:

Standard Version:

  • Acceleration (0-100km/h): 5.28 seconds
  • Top Speed: 210km/h
  • Horsepower: 200ps
  • Torque: 400Nm
  • Recharge Range: 668km

Max Version:

  • Acceleration (0-100km/h): 2.78 seconds
  • Top Speed: 265km/h
  • Horsepower: 673ps
  • Torque: 838Nm
  • Recharge Range: 800km

One standout feature of the SU7 is its massive CATL battery, utilising Xiaomi’s proprietary Cell-To-Body (CTB) technology. The battery is integrated into the floor of the car, providing structural rigidity and optimising interior cabin space.

The company claims to have developed advanced technology, including fast-charging capabilities, to mitigate the impact of extreme cold weather on the battery, ensuring sustained performance.

The Xiaomi SU7 is expected to be available for purchase in early 2024, primarily in the Chinese market. The car will be offered in three distinctive colors: Aqua Blue, Mineral Gray, and Verdant Green. Despite the comprehensive unveiling, Xiaomi has not disclosed specific pricing details or detailed plans for international distribution at this time.

The introduction of the SU7 marks Xiaomi’s entry into the highly competitive electric vehicle landscape, joining the ranks of tech companies venturing into the future of sustainable transportation. As EV adoption continues to grow globally, Xiaomi aims to carve its niche with a high-performance and technologically advanced offering.

Aito Launches Flagship SUV, the M9, with Huawei Technology

Aito, a joint venture between Huawei and Seres in China, has introduced its flagship SUV, the Aito M9. The large six-seater SUV features modern styling, advanced technology, and entertainment options, showcasing Huawei’s influence.

The M9 includes adaptive matrix LED headlights with projectors for cinema experiences both inside and outside the vehicle. Inside, the dashboard houses a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch central infotainment screen, and a 16-inch front passenger screen, all running on Huawei’s HarmonyOS 4 system. The SUV also features a laser projector and retractable 32-inch panel for rear passengers, providing entertainment options.

The Aito M9’s interior offers a unique configuration, with seats that are electrically operated, providing 14-way adjustment, heating, and ventilating functions. The SUV includes safety features with 27 sensors and the latest Huawei ADS 2.0 system.

Aito offers two powertrain options for the M9: a fully electric version with dual electric motors, 523hp, and a 97.7 kWh battery pack, providing a claimed range of 630km. The range-extender version combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine/generator with dual electric motors and a 42 kWh or 52 kWh battery, offering 490hp a combined range between 1,362-1,402 km.

The Aito M9 is positioned above the existing M5 and M7 SUVs, competing with similarly sized models in the Chinese market, including Li Auto L9, Nio ES8, HiPhi X, and others. The SUV is available for order in China, with deliveries expected in early 2024, priced between 469,800 yuan (RM303,737) and 569,800 yuan (RM368,389).

Daihatsu Faces Potential RM3.2 billion Loss Amid Safety Test Scandal

Daihatsu Motor, a unit of Toyota Motor, is expected to incur losses exceeding 100 billion yen (around RM3.2 billion) due to the safety test scandal that recently surfaced. The estimate includes potential costs from a factory shutdown, compensation to suppliers, and additional expenses related to investigations and safety tests. Daihatsu has temporarily halted production in Japan, and although shipments in Indonesia and Malaysia have resumed, the company faces challenges in negotiating compensation with suppliers and supporting affected dealerships. If the scandal’s impact leads to consolidated losses, it would mark Daihatsu’s first such losses in 30 years.

2022 Daihatsu Rocky HYBRID

Japan accounted for about 60% of Daihatsu’s 1.42 million vehicles manufactured in the last fiscal year, playing a crucial role in Toyota’s strategy for minicars in Japan and compacts in emerging markets. Although Daihatsu contributes approximately 3% to Toyota’s total operating profit, a hit of over 100 billion yen could impact Toyota’s earnings. The scandal adds uncertainty to Toyota’s group governance, and Daihatsu may face further penalties, including the revocation of production certifications.

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China Unveils Advanced Aircraft Carrier With Next-Gen Launch Tracks

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Introduces Changes for Enhanced Aerodynamics

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Porsche’s Upcoming Taycan Variant Shatters Nürburgring Lap Record

  • 03/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

BYD Achieves Record Sales of 3.02 Million NEVs in 2023

  • 02/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Koenigsegg Jesko ‘Attack’ With 24-Karat Gold Accents Hits The Streets

  • 02/01/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Datsun 240Z Transformed into Tesla-Powered Batmobile

  • 30/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

JDM Companies Working On High-Performance Digital Chip

  • 29/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Xiaomi Steps Into The EV World With The SU7 – Another Tesla Killer?

  • 29/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Aito Launches Flagship SUV, the M9, with Huawei Technology

  • 28/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Daihatsu Faces Potential RM3.2 billion Loss Amid Safety Test Scandal

  • 28/12/2023
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash
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