Over at Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), opening of all its authorised Nissan showrooms will take place progressively from tomorrow (Friday, August 20). With the exception of a few outlets, all showrooms (branches and dealers) in Perlis, Penang, Perak, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah, Sarawak, Labuan will open from tomorrow. Those that do not will do so by August 23. However, in Kedah, Melaka and Johor, the showrooms will still remain closed until further notice.
Peace-of-mind experience for customers
“ETCM adhere to strict standard operating procedures (SOP) ensuring the safety of its employees and a peace-of-mind experience for customers at all times. Only vaccinated employees including post-vaccine incubation period are allowed to resume work in Nissan showrooms. All employees will be wearing face mask, undergo frequent body temperature check, and regular disinfecting will be carried out at the showrooms including display and test drive vehicles, the company said in a statement today.
Customers are also advised to comply with SOPs when entering the premises; ensure full vaccination including post-vaccine incubation period, provide proof of digital certificate on MySejahtera, have a body temperature below 37.5°C and wear a face mask. Other SOPs set by the Government remain active.
Customers requiring more information can visit www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.
After over two months of closure, the local auto industry is relieved that operations at all its facilities, including assembly plants, can resume. As the summary of new vehicle sales showed, the Total Industry Volume for the months of June and July were at rock bottom, and for August, there remain only two weeks in the month to do business.
Nevertheless, it is good news that showrooms can open again, and customers can visit them to make purchases. Besides serving customers, the showrooms will also be rushing to register and deliver new vehicles to customers, while plants will also be trying to meet the backlog of orders.
“Resuming our business activities, especially at Toyota and Lexus retail outlets, will enable a return to some form of normalcy so we can move forward and do our part to help in the economic recovery of the country,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
Strict adherence to SOPs
He said that the company understands the seriousness of preventing the spread of COVID-19 and will follow all the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), conditions and guidelines provided by the Health Ministry and the National Security Council. These will be implemented throughout the company and will be strictly followed to ensure the safety of the public as well as its employees.
“In fact, after the MCO last year, we already implemented many of the SOPs at our showrooms and service centres, and these have been maintained even until now. These include temperature scanning of everyone, registration with MySejahtera, use of hand sanitisers and facemasks, and regular sanitisation of premises,” he said.
“Vehicle owners visiting service centres are also requested to make appointments in advance. As far as possible, contactless payments are encouraged and social distancing is to be observed at all times. We assure our customers that we have made sure that our premises have a safe environment for them to visit,” Mr. Ravindran added.
Specified capacities for factories
On the resumption of manufacturing activities, Mr. Ravindran said the two assembly plants and related factories in the UMW Toyota Motor group will be able to operate at specified capacities, depending on the percentage of workers who are already vaccinated, with full capacity permitted if more than 80% are vaccinated. “The company has been carrying out a vaccination programme and all our employees have already been vaccinated or will be vaccinated very soon,” he said.
“Now that the restrictions are lifted, we have more certainty as there are many important plans in the pipeline. For example, we have been preparing for the local assembly of Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles and while the past 2 months have disrupted planning, we will now proceed as quickly as possible to make up for the time lost,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.
In the past year, Genesis, Hyundai’s premium brand, has been busy expanding its range, especially with its entry into the European market this year. Soon, the range will be joined by the new GV60, the brand’s first electric vehicle based on the Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated EV platform (E-GMP).
Numbering system of Genesis range
The ‘G’ in GV60 represents ‘Genesis’, while the ‘V’ represents the vehicle’s versatility. The number ‘60’ is the lowest in the Genesis line-up and comes as the brand evolves its model-numbering scheme to fit the design identity of ‘Athletic Elegance.’ Applying a different approach from convention (where smaller numbers refer to smaller size), lower numbers will emphasize athleticism under the scheme, with elegance represented by higher numbers.
Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP for EVs
Sleek, coupe-like design
The exterior design highlights a high-performance image along with a dynamic and smooth appearance, with the front featuring a design optimized exclusively for an electric vehicle. Below the line of flanking Two-Line Quad Lamps is a more athletic Crest Grille. While there is no internal combustion engine to cool, the grille is still used to allow air to blow towards the high-voltage battery pack in the underbody for cooling.
The GV60 will also see a new wing emblem applied to the grille, with the thickness of the emblem reduced by nearly 80% from previous models. It has the same unique Guilloche pattern often seen in luxury watches, a blend of the brand’s analogue sensitivities with high-tech innovations.
In addition, Genesis designers have opted for a ‘Clamshell Hood’ for the first time, a single panel which combines the bonnet and fenders, creating a sleek impression by removing lines between the parts.
The side view shows a smooth and dynamic profile of a high-performance coupe. The silhouette is simple yet sharp, running from the bonnet to the rear spoiler. The spoiler accents the coupe-shaped roof. A chrome line flowing from the windscreen to the top of the Day Light Opening (DLO) window extends to a C pillar-garnish design that embodies the image of ‘electric’, adding a distinctive characteristic to the model.
Shoulder volume is emphasized in the rear fender to create a low and wide profile and further accentuate the image of high-performance by combining it with technical functions such as various sensors, taillights, and rear turn signals at the bottom.
Digital rearview mirrors
The GV60 will not have conventional door mirrors using reflective surfaces. Instead, they will capture the rearward views on either side using a camera and display images on a monitor. The door handles remain flush when not needed, improving aerodynamics, and automatically pop up when the driver approaches the car.
The Crystal Sphere
The interior takes on Genesis’ design ethos of the ‘Beauty of White Space’ to create a spacious and comfortable interior. At the same time, it has embodied differentiated images with its floating architecture and unique details. The most noticeable feature is the Crystal Sphere, a sphere-shaped Shift-By-Wire (SBW) that intuitively informs drivers when the car is ready to drive.
The Crystal Sphere is one of the most compelling design elements of the GV60. When the car’s powertrain is turned off, the Crystal Sphere becomes mood lights, adding to the aesthetic of the driving experience. When readying to drive, it rotates and the SBW display appears, creating an indoor atmosphere of futuristic mobility. The Crystal Sphere can this also provide emotional connection with driver while indicating driving status.
The ‘floating’ console, where the Crystal Sphere is located, works with other design features such as the slim cockpit and flat floor to provide passengers with a maximum level of openness. The ‘crash pad’ in the cabin is designed in a wide and slim shape to augment the pleasant interior, emphasizing a high-tech atmosphere with a wide-screen integrated indicator for audio, video, navigation, telecommunication.
Genesis has not given details of the electric powertrain although it is likely to be shared with recent new EV models like the Hyundai Ioniq5 and Kia EV6. The launch date is also unknown but the Korean market is likely to get it this year, and shipments to other markets will start in 2022.
Lamborghini Marzal: the car with the most glass surface area
Developed with the intention to create a 4-seater grand tourer, the Marzal, designed by Marcello Gandini for Carrozzeria Bertone, became a worldwide icon of style and design. Among the features that made the Marzal’s design special were the interior, entirely upholstered in silver-coloured leather and the hexagon, the central theme of its entire design which was repeated in as many details as possible. It was echoed in the shape of the dashboard, the rear window and in the console cut-out.
But the most striking feature of all was the extensive glass surface that covered 4.5 square metres in total, from the gull-wing doors to the roof. Though the Marzal was a fully operational showcar, it could claim having the largest glass surface in history.
Lamborghini Miura: designed by the youngest team in Lamborghini’s history
From the very beginning of his entrepreneurial history, Ferruccio Lamborghini wanted to give ample space to brilliant and capable young people, and the Miura project was a prime example of this. With the aim of challenging the competition of that era and getting his company off the ground, he made use of talented collaborators selected from universities and from among the youngest professionals in the automotive world.
In 1966, with an average age of just 29, the youngest in the history of the brand, designer Marcello Gandini and test driver Bob Wallace, both 28, along with chief engineer Gian Paolo Dallara and assistant engineer Paolo Stanzani, both 30, brought the Miura to life, an extraordinary car that was destined to become a legend.
Lamborghini LM002: the first Super SUV
Starting as a project aimed at developing a high-performance off-road vehicle for military use, the LM002 was first unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show in 1986. At the time of its launch, the LM002 was a completely different car from any other available in the market. It had performance similar to those of Lamborghini’s super sportscars, thanks to a 5167 cc engine delivering 450 bhp.
With a body made of aluminium and fibreglass, all-wheel drive, a 2-speed transfer-case with central locking differential, it could also be used off-road on rough terrain. It was undoubtedly the first Super SUV in history, with today’s Urus being the direct descendant. 300 units were produced between 1986 and 1992.
Lamborghini Countach: the first car with ‘scissor doors’
‘Scissor doors’, so called because of the way they opened upwards at an angle, were a unique feature in futuristic cars, usually design concepts. The first car with such doors was the Lamborghini Countach designed by Gandini. In 1971, it was the first production car equipped with vertically opening doors of this type, still today a distinctive feature of the most powerful Lamborghini models.
This feature was not just to wow the public as there was a useful function. The driver could lean out to see the area behind the car when reversing, solving the problem of poor rear visibility as well as that of parking in tight spaces, where a long door could not otherwise be opened.
Lamborghini Miura: lowest production roadcar at 105.5 cm in height
In the 1960s, low height and sinuous, aerodynamic forms were the most important aspects in the minds of designers developing a sportscar. At just 105.5 cm in height, the Miura was the lowest mass-produced car ever, a record that is part of Lamborghini’s DNA and still a styling feature in its cars today.
The original Datsun 240Z was one of the first Japanese models to show that Japan could also make sportscars and not just econocars. It certainly added another side to the Datsun brand (Nissan was not used as a brand name then) and drew enthusiasts to it. 50 years later, the seventh generation has now been revealed and retains the authenticity of a pure sportscar like the original.
The all-new Nissan Z – no more numbers that relate to engine size – was presented to the world online from New York, the same city where the 240Z made its world debut in October 1969. “When we introduced the Z in 1969, the Z was a revolution. Since then, for more than 50 years, Nissan has brought style, speed, reliability and so much more to millions of enthusiasts around the world,” said Ashwani Gupta, Representative Executive Officer and COO of Nissan.
Design shows lineage
As with the previous six generations, the new Z retains the same long-nose/short rear deck profile that was inspired by the classic British sportscars and also housed an in-line six. With the design theme for the exterior being ‘tradition with modern technology’, the designers looked to past generations to develop the fresh, sleek exterior design with an appearance that communicates respect to its lineage. “Ultimately, we created a Z that travels between the decades while being completely modern,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Global Head of Design at Nissan.
1971 Datsun 240Z
While maintaining the silhouette that pays homage to the first generation, the designers utilized the latest technologies to streamline the design, and incorporated LED lighting to give dimension without unnecessary elements. The LED headlights have two half-circles that take their inspiration from the Japan market-only 240ZG of the 1970s. Incidentally, for the original 240Z sold in America, the plastic covers for the headlights were not permitted due to regulations at that time.
The link to the original Z is most striking when viewing the new Z from the side. The roofline flows from the nose to the squared-off rear to create the distinctive familiar profile , whose rear edge was slightly lower than the front fender height giving the Z its unique posture. The signature transition from the rear quarter glass to the low-slung position of the rear tail adds to the effect.
The door handles are a flush-mounted design, and the rear hatch design is ultra-thin, yet with increased rigidity over the previous 370Z design. In the rear, the blister fenders smoothly direct flow air past the horizontal rear panel. The rear combination lamps incorporate modern technology into the design reminiscent of the Z32 300ZX (sold between 1990 and 1996), including new 3D signature LED taillights. The Z Performance grade also comes with a rear spoiler.
Only one engine choice
The early Z cars had straight six engines but V6 engines were used from 1984 when the 300ZX was launched, and the model has continued to use such engines to this day. The new Z gets the latest version of the V6 twin turbo engine (VR30DDT) but now with a 3-litre displacement instead of the 3.7 litres of the generation it replaces. There is, however, a significant boost in power output over the previous engine as this one produced up to 405 ps at 6,400 rpm and 475 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm.
To increase output and to deliver sharp response, small-diameter turbochargers are used, as well as a turbo speed sensor to ensure the capabilities of the turbos are fully utilized (maximum spooling speed). The twin turbos balance power output and response time, while the use of an electronic variable valve timing (e-VVT) intake valve system ensures optimum response, constantly adjusting the intake valve timing to achieve excellent response and fuel efficiency in a variety of driving scenes.
6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
Many of those who bought a 280ZX, introduced in the late 1970s, probably got it with a 5-speed manual transmission. For those who were lazy to shift, Nissan offered a 3-speed automatic transmission (yes… 3 speeds!). Transmission technologies have advanced over 4 decades and with the new Z, the driver gets a standard, 6-speed manual transmission. The close-ratio transmission includes an EXEDY high-performance clutch. In a first for a rear-wheel drive Nissan vehicle, Z Performance versions equipped with a manual transmission include an advanced launch assist control system that helps deliver smooth acceleration from a stopped position. There is also a carbonfibre composite driveshaft, with SynchroRev Match added to Performance versions.
You can also get an automatic transmission and this also has the launch control system. It’s a 9-speeder with a wide spread of gear ratios. Aluminium paddle shifters are standard, with unique paddle shifters, the same design as found on the GT-R (for Performance versions).
The engineering team tuned the chassis, cooling, suspension and steering to give the driver predictable and responsive handling. This required a multi-prong approach, especially for high-speed driving and cornering. Enhanced body rigidity, an electronic power steering with rack assist and a strong mechanical feel, and wider front tyres help increase maximum cornering g-forces up to 13%. The dampers use a new monotube shock absorber design with a larger diameter than the 370Z, resulting in an approximately 20% reduction in damping force to help minimize impact shock over uneven surfaces, enhance road-following performance and improve handling stability.
The front double-wishbone aluminium suspension features new geometry, including increased caster angle, improving straight line stability. A 2-point front strut tower brace is standard and the rear independent multi-link aluminium suspension has also been reconfigured with new settings.
Needless to say, disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels and all have ventilated rotors. Larger sport brakes with red-painted calipers are standard on Performance versions, while the Z Sport version rides on dark-painted 18-inch aluminium-alloy wheels with Yokohama ADVAN Sport high performance tyres. The Z Performance version has 19-inch RAYS super lightweight forged aluminium alloy wheels wrapped with Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres.
Modern tech with a vintage touch
Sportscars like the Z have always had cabins designed to fit the occupants like a glove. The new Z will be no exception, and seamlessly blends modern technology with vintage Z touches. The centre stack takes inspiration from other generations before it, with three analogue pod gauges over the middle section to give that classic appearance. There’s an 8-inch touchscreen audio display to function as a command centre with numerous functions and interfacing with smartphones.
Ideal sportscar cabin
The interior design team also sought advice from professional motorsports racers to give the Z an ideal sportscar cabin. This can be seen in the instrumentation, with all vital information found in the 12.3-inch customizable digital meter display and arranged to help the driver grasp it at a glance. One example: the redline shift point is set at the 12 o’clock position.
The meter display is customizable in three modes. NORMAL mode offers a sporty feel with the centre area for navigation, audio and vehicle information. ENHANCED mode positions the tachometer and speedometer at the edges of the display, giving more space in the centre for a larger navigation map and information to be displayed. SPORT mode prioritizes the tachometer in the centre with a shift-up light at the top in the driver’s field of view. This mode also shows a boost gauge or g- meter, depending on what the driver prefers.
The design of the seats utilizes know-how from the GT-R’s development to enhance body support and grip. An expanded use of suede on the seatback suppresses initial lateral shake on the body, creating more comfortable drives, as well as reducing body movement when the vehicle is being cornered with ‘great enthusiasm’.
The early Z cars were pretty bare by today’s standards but then again, drivers probably didn’t care much about convenience features too. For today’s Z, times have changed and a wide range of convenience features comes as standard equipment. These include a Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Start, intelligent cruise control, automatic temperature control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rearview Monitor, 12V power sockets, USB points (Type-C as well) and front and rear sonar sensors for parking guidance. Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement enhances listening pleasure from the audio system.
Proto Spec special edition
Nissan will offer a special edition which celebrates the distinctive Z Proto introduced in 2020. To be known as the Proto Spec, this will be limited to 240 units in the USA. It will have yellow-coloured brake calipers with the Z logo, bronze-coloured 19-inch RAYS wheels, exclusive shift lever knob (manual transmission only), exclusive Proto Spec leather-covered seats with yellow accents, exclusive Proto Spec suede + cloth door trim with yellow stitching and special Proto Spec interior stitching.
Pricing for the new sportscar is not announced yet but is expected to be around US$40,000 (about RM170,000) and the first units will be delivered to customers during the first quarter of 2022. You can expect that NISMO is already hard at work preparing high-performance versions.
