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Mercedes-Benz has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first automaker globally to obtain permits for special exterior marker lights for automated driving in California and Nevada. The permits allow testing vehicles to incorporate these lights for a two-year period in California, while in Nevada, they extend to production vehicles until modifications in statutes occur, with validity until the model year 2026.

These distinctive turquoise-coloured marker lights, integrated into the front and rear lights, as well as the outer mirrors of testing vehicles, serve a vital role in enhancing public acceptance of automated driving and reinforcing road safety. By indicating the status of the automated driving system, these lights facilitate communication with other road users and assist law enforcement.

The initial application of these marker lights will be with Drive Pilot, recognised as the world’s first Level 3 system for conditionally automated driving with international type approval. Having obtained certification in Germany in 2021 and subsequently in Nevada and California in 2023, Drive Pilot is already available for ordering in Germany.

The choice of turquoise for these marker lights is deliberate, aiming for optimal visibility for rapid detection by other road users. Mercedes-Benz intends to standardise the use of turquoise, contributing to a universal understanding and acceptance of this innovative technology. This development marks a significant step toward the integration of automated driving systems into mainstream road usage.

In an unexpected move, Kia Canada is reportedly holding off on delivering new vehicles ordered by Canadian customers until 2024. This decision appears to be motivated by a desire to control wholesale and retail performance in 2023, preventing the company from looking overly successful in its corporate office in South Korea.

Details of this strategy emerged from a leaked video call on November 17, involving a Kia Canada regional manager and various dealership representatives. The manager stated that amid a global slowdown, Kia Canada aims to avoid showing high overachievement in 2023 to better negotiate a favourable marketing budget from the global office for the following year.

While this approach might benefit Kia Canada in terms of budget allocation, it has raised concerns and criticisms. Customers who placed orders now face delays of weeks or even months, and dealers and sales staff, often working on commission, may experience financial consequences. Since customer orders and deposits don’t translate to sales until the vehicle is delivered, this decision could impact their income.

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In response to increasing attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels due to Israel’s conflict with Hamas, merchant ships in the Red Sea are reportedly turning off tracking signals to avoid being targeted.

The Red Sea serves as a crucial trade route, connecting Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal. Approximately 12% of global trade passes through this region, according to the CEO of the German Shipowners’ Association.

Facing the threat of attacks, several container ships have opted to conceal their locations, with some broadcasting their destination as “ARMED GUARD ON BOARD,” as indicated by tracking websites. The Houthi rebels have targeted commercial vessels with drones and ballistic missiles, causing damage and prompting major shippers like BP, Evergreen, and Maersk to either reroute vessels or pause shipments.

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Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, recently announced on his social media platform, X, that Tesla plans to introduce a package for the Cybertruck, turning it into an amphibious vehicle capable of navigating at least 100 meters of water.

An amphibious vehicle is a type of transportation that is designed to operate both on land and in water. These vehicles have features that allow them to seamlessly transition between terrestrial and aquatic environments. Amphibious vehicles come in various forms such as amphibious bicycles, ATVs, cars, buses, trucks, railway vehicles, combat vehicles and hovercraft.

Amphibious bicycle back in 1932

Musk’s statement follows discussions on Jay Leno’s Garage, where Tesla’s head of design, Franz von Holzhausen, and vice president of vehicle engineering, Lars Moravy, shared insights into the Cybertruck’s capabilities. Moravy suggested that the vehicle almost floats, and with some added buoyancy, an outboard motor could be installed.

Embracing Moravy’s idea, Musk stated that Tesla will offer a modification package for the Cybertruck, requiring minimal upgrades to the cabin door seals. While the accuracy of Musk’s claim about the Cybertruck’s seaworthiness remains uncertain, it aligns with Musk’s longstanding fascination with the concept. Musk previously expressed interest in having the Cybertruck make a water crossing between SpaceX’s Starbase and South Padre Island, Texas.

The timeline for this modification package remains unclear, and Musk’s announcement did not specify if development was underway before his social media post. Some social media users expressed skepticism, suggesting that the Cybertruck could potentially serve as a submarine but humorously adding that it might then transform into a “coffin.”

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In a pioneering move toward a sustainable automotive future, Toyota Motor Corporation has introduced the Crown Sport Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) to the Japanese market, seamlessly blending advanced technology with a sporty design ethos.

The Crown Sport PHEV features a high-output density drive motor, providing a maximum system output of 306PS. It features a Series Parallel Hybrid with reduction gear (A25A-FXS 2.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine). This cutting-edge motor ensures seamless and powerful acceleration, setting a new standard in hybrid performance.

Positioned strategically beneath the vehicle’s floor, the large-capacity lithium-ion battery delivers a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)-mode cruising range suitable for daily use without compromising interior space. A fully charged battery provides a BEV-mode range of 90km and a hybrid-mode fuel economy of 20.3km/L, resulting in an impressive total cruising range of 1,200km or more.

To enhance driving stability, Toyota has incorporated the advanced E-Four electric 4WD system, distributing power to all four wheels. This system not only improves stability but also ensures control in various driving conditions, including cornering and adverse weather.

The Crown Sport PHEV ensures optimal body rigidity balance with added braces to the floor tunnel. The Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, along with paddle shifters, delivers a smooth and planted ride, allowing for seamless gear shifts.

Equipped with a performance-oriented braking system, the vehicle features 20-inch ventilated disc brakes and exclusive six-piston callipers for enhanced stopping power and a sporty exterior aesthetic.

With its 21-inch large-diameter, wide tires and distinctive triple spokes on black aluminium wheels, the Crown Sport PHEV boasts a sporty and luxurious exterior design, appealing to drivers seeking a dynamic yet sophisticated look.

The interior adopts a black and red asymmetrical colour scheme, injecting excitement into the driving experience. Sports seats with red stitching provide firm support for the driver, enhancing the overall thrill of driving.

The Crown Sport PHEV supports both standard and rapid charging functions, with the rapid charging capability reaching 80% battery capacity in approximately 38 minutes. Additionally, the innovative Vehicle to Home (V2H) system allows the Crown Sport PHEV to supply stored electricity to the home during blackouts or emergencies.

Toyota’s Crown Sport PHEV represents a revolutionary fusion of performance, cutting-edge technology, and environmental consciousness, catering to drivers who seek a dynamic driving experience without compromising on hybrid efficiency. This model marks a significant step toward Toyota’s commitment to a sustainable and electrified automotive future.

In Japan, it is priced at ¥7,650,000 (RM247,627).

Volvo Cars, a pioneer in the automotive industry, declared at Climate Week NYC that it will cease the production of all diesel-powered models by early 2024, reaffirming its commitment to becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030. This bold move positions Volvo Cars as one of the first legacy automakers to discontinue diesel production.

The decision to end diesel production aligns with Volvo Cars’ ambitious transformation plan, aiming for a fully electric vehicle (EV) lineup by 2030 and aspiring to be a climate-neutral company by 2040. The company has already divested from the development of new combustion engines, selling its stake in Aurobay, the joint venture holding its remaining combustion engine assets, in November 2022.

Volvo Cars has been at the forefront of sustainability since acknowledging its products’ negative environmental impact in 1972. The recent Global Climate Stocktake report from the United Nations underscores the urgent need for action against climate change.

The decision to phase out diesel production by early 2024 reflects the rapidly changing landscape of the automotive industry and evolving customer preferences. Only four years ago, diesel engines constituted a significant portion of Volvo Cars’ sales in Europe. Today, the majority of the company’s European sales are electrified cars, reflecting the shift in market demand and Volvo’s focus on electrification.

As Volvo Cars paves the way for a sustainable future, the decision to discontinue diesel production contributes to improved urban air quality by reducing emissions of gases like nitrogen oxide (NOx) associated with diesel engines.

McLaren, the iconic British supercar manufacturer, introduces the highly anticipated McLaren GTS, designed to take its place in the McLaren lineup as a replacement for the GT model.

Exterior Enhancements:

At the forefront of the GTS’s aesthetic evolution is the updated ‘hammerhead’ signature styling at the front. A redesigned lower front bumper section houses more pronounced air intakes, featuring wider openings to optimise airflow to the car’s radiator system. The front intake air blades, available in gloss visual carbon fibre, not only reflect McLaren’s racing heritage but also contribute to the GTS’s more aggressive and dynamic appearance.

On the rear fenders, new and taller air scoops, also offered in gloss visual carbon fibre, sit prominently, facilitating increased airflow into the heart of the GTS – the formidable 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine.

The GTS’s muscular visuals include a large rear diffuser and dual exhausts, enhancing the car’s overall aerodynamics. The optional Sports Exhaust system delivers an exhilarating supercar soundtrack, allowing drivers to revel in the raw power at their command.

For a stealthy appearance by default, the GTS comes standard with a gloss black finish on the exhaust finisher, mirror caps, and window surrounds. The vehicle’s badging, including new side badges, can be further customized with a black finish by opting for the Stealth Badge Pack. Visual carbon fiber options abound, from underbody carbon packs to specific exterior details such as front air intake blades, rear fender air intakes, and mirror caps.

Lightweight Construction and Performance Prowess:

Underpinning the GTS is the robust carbon fibre MonoCell II-T monocoque chassis, renowned for its strength and ultra-lightweight construction. The chassis features a standard composite roof made from recycled carbon fiber, exemplifying McLaren’s commitment to sustainability without compromising performance.

Weighing a mere 1,520kg (DIN), the GTS claims the title of the lightest car in its class. The 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, denoted as the V8 M840TE, now produces an impressive 635PS at 7,500rpm. The engine enhancements include a boost in crankshaft torque through more aggressive combustion phasing and revised ignition timing.

Equipped with a launch-control function, the GTS accelerates from 0-100km/h in a blistering 3.2 seconds and achieves 0-200km/h in just 8.9 seconds, showcasing its formidable performance capabilities. The GTS boasts a maximum speed of 326km/h.

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Toyota Motor Corporation has revealed its participation in the Idemitsu Super Endurance Southeast Asia Trophy 2023, a 10-hour endurance race scheduled for December 22 and 23 at Thailand’s Chang International Circuit.

Toyota will field a three-vehicle lineup for Rookie Racing featuring innovative concepts, including the ORC Rookie GR86 CNF, a GR86 powered by carbon-neutral fuel; the ORC Rookie GR Corolla H2, a hydrogen-powered Corolla; and the CP Rookie Prius CNF-HEV GR, a Prius HEV running on carbon-neutral fuel. Notably, this marks the first time Toyota will compete with a production Prius HEV (hybrid electric vehicle).

Toyota Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition

Additionally, three vehicles from Toyota Gazoo Racing team Thailand—the Corolla, 86, and Yaris—will run on carbon-neutral fuel. Toyota is committed to expanding motorsports-related options for achieving carbon neutrality in collaboration with its Asian partners.

In its pursuit of a carbon-neutral society, Toyota is actively participating in the Super Taikyu series with hydrogen-powered and carbon-neutral fuel-driven vehicles. The GR86 and hydrogen-powered Corolla previously competed in the 2022 Thailand 25H Endurance Race, and in the upcoming Idemitsu Super Endurance Southeast Asia Trophy, Toyota introduces an HEV, recognising its effectiveness in achieving carbon neutrality in the Asian context, especially in Thailand.

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Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has officially commenced the production of its new Minicab EV (known as L100 EV in Indonesia) at the PT Mitsubishi Motors Krama Yudha Indonesia Mitsubishi Motors’ factory in Indonesia.

This kei-car class electric commercial vehicle is set to be available for purchase in Indonesia during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023. The Minicab EV adopts a monobox design and incorporates an electric vehicle (EV) system that has proven successful in the i-MiEV, the world’s first mass-produced EV. Notably, the drive battery is strategically positioned beneath the centre of the floor to preserve its spacious cargo area while maintaining a low centre of gravity, ensuring exceptional steering stability and a comfortable ride.

Mitsubishi Motors aims to contribute to reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the last mile of commercial use by offering the Minicab EV. This move aligns with the growing global emphasis on achieving a carbon-neutral society and the increasing demand for sustainable business activities, particularly in the logistics and commercial EV sectors.

Moreover, as part of its strategic initiatives in the ASEAN region, Mitsubishi Motors plans to commence partial exports of the Pajero Sport midsize SUV from Indonesia. Currently produced in Thailand and exported to Australia, the Pajero Sport is expected to be partially exported from Indonesia starting in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2023. This move underscores Mitsubishi Motors’ commitment to enhancing its presence in the ASEAN market and meeting the evolving demands of environmentally conscious consumers in the region.

Mini has expanded its lineup with the introduction of two new models, the Mini Countryman C and Countryman S, each offering a distinctive blend of driving comfort, spacious interiors, and efficient engine performance.

The Mini Countryman C boasts an efficient 3-cylinder petrol engine, producing an output of 170hp. Accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in a brisk 8.3 seconds, it achieves a top speed of 212km/h. With 280Nm of torque, the car ensures a lively and characteristic Mini driving experience. The integration of mild hybrid technology contributes to energy recovery during braking and supports the internal combustion engine during accelerations, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

On the exterior, it stands out with its increased dimensions, being 13cm longer and 8cm higher than its predecessor. The redesign includes an octagonal front grille, distinctive LED headlights, and optional new light signatures. The C-pillar seamlessly joins the stretched car roof, and Piano Black roof rails are now standard, enhancing the model’s versatility with options like roof racks or a Mini roof box. With a ground clearance of 202mm and a dynamic chassis, the Countryman C ensures safety and comfort even on uneven roads. Light-alloy wheels, ranging from 17 to 21 inches, complement the model’s aesthetics.

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