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Jaguar’s Series III V12 E-type reproduced by Building the Legend Limited

Throughout the history of the automobile, there have been many iconic models with designs that even today remain special. The Jaguar E-Type is one of them and various companies have restored original units for collectors, if not themselves. There are also companies which build reinterpretations of the famous Jaguar sportscar.

Limited production of a legend
Building the Legend Limited in England is one of them and engineer Neville Swales, its owner, has completed the very first example of the V12-powered Jaguar E-type homage. Beginning in the E-type’s 60th anniversary year – and 50 years since the V12 Series III E-type was introduced – only 24 of these cars will be built. Working with one of the UK’s foremost coachbuilders, each one will be a unique rebody and reinterpretation of Jaguar’s Series III V12 E-type in coupe, roadster or ‘low drag’ racing car form.

Although the first 4 cars in the series are already booked, a total of 6 cars will be delivered each year over the next 4 years. Each one will be hand-crafted to high production standards with advanced modern technology and bespoke interiors, replicating the purity and elegance of the early E-types which enthusiasts feel was lost as the series evolved over the years.

The Jaguar built for Le Mans but never raced
From small beginnings in his workshops in Coventry, Swales creates meticulously engineered and beautiful sports cars. His first were inspired by Jaguar’s 1966 XJ13 prototype – a car originally designed to take on the might of Ford and Ferrari at Le Mans, although the single original example built by Jaguar never got to do that.

*The recreated Jaguar XJ13 prototype that was built in 1966 for Le Mans but never raced.*

Assisted by surviving members of the original team who created this masterpiece in 1966, Swales’ first recreation of the XJ13 was a finalist in the 2016 International Historic Motoring Awards, where it stood fender to fender against icons such as the 1966 Le Mans-winning Ford GT40 and the 1956 Le Mans-winning Jaguar D-type.

It has since been joined by a very limited number of cars for customers built to the same exacting standard and, aiming to push the boundaries of automotive restoration even further, his journey continues with cars powered by his own unique interpretation of Jaguar’s legendary quad-cam V12 ‘XJ13’ engine – the tera V12.

Also taking inspiration from period offerings from Ferrari, Matra and Lamborghini, the tera V12 is the type of power unit that could have been heard howling down the Mulsanne Straight at Le Mans in 1966 and beyond. It was an engine that should have powered Jaguar’s range of sportscars and saloons – if circumstances had allowed.

‘Future-proofed’ V12 engine
Capable of running on the new generation of carbon-neutral ‘green’ fuels, the tera V12 is a beautifully sculptural engine that will be heard for many years into the future, as the world responds to its environmental challenges. Swales’ mission with his latest car is to celebrate the purity of the iconic Series 1 E-type design, combined with the tera V12 engine which is available in 6.1-litre or 6.8-litre form.

All cars are built to the exact specification requested by the owner. Personalisation of a very high degree is possible with a vast range of options, plus bodystyles and detailed finish limited only by their imagination.

Original Jaguar E-Type toolkit now available from Jaguar Classic

2021 Volkswagen Multivan separates from Transporter line

The bestselling van in history, with over 12 million units sold worldwide, is the Volkswagen Transporter. While the earliest version which began in 1950 was on a Beetle platform, the model later gained its own ‘T platform’ from the 1990s for a variety of versions including minibuses, pick-ups and campervans.

From T platform to MQB platform
The current generation is the T6 Transporter with its people-mover variant known as the Caravelle. With the new T7 generation, the Transporter will leave the T platform behind in what will be the creation of a new model line named Multivan, while the current T6 is likely to continue as a commercial van for some time.

A trio of vans
The new Multivan (1941 mm wide, 4973 mm long) will ride on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform which should give it more versatility. It will be a less commercially-oriented product and is likely to become a significant MPV model range as well. In fact, Volkswagen has already indicated that the Multivan will be one of three members of a multi-purpose vehicle line-up that will include the T6 Transporter and all-electric ID. Buzz.

The exterior looks of the Multivan adopt the latest design language seen on the new Golf and Polo, and also pays homage to its predecessors, dating back to the 1985 Transporter T3. The front air intakes, painted in the same colour as the vehicle, have been reduced, paying tribute to the heritage of the rear air-cooled engines of the first three generations.

The colour scheme in the press photos goes with the cubic theme of the design which has clean surfaces and large glass panels all round. Also available is a panoramic glass roof with LowE laminated safety glass to reduce incoming thermal radiation by 44%.

PHEV for the first time
Volkswagen has a large number of markets and so its powertrain choices for the Multivan will need to take into consideration the less developed countries which will still want combustion engines. At the same time, for the markets where electrification is moving forward, there is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV)variant – the first time in this Volkswagen segment.

The Multivan PHEV will have a 1.4-litre TSI 150 ps petrol engine and an electric motor powered by a 13 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The total system output is 218 ps with instantaneous torque which will provide brisk performance. Volkswagen does not give any numbers yet other that that, with a 6-speed DSG transmission, ‘short, urban trips’ are possible on pure electric power.

The combustion engine powertrains that will be available will be two 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines – 136 ps 1.5 TSI and 204 ps 2.0 TSI – and a 150 ps 4-cylinder turbodiesel. All the engines will deliver their power through a 7-speed DSG to the front wheels.

Semi-autonomous capability
The Multivan will have a lot of new and advanced tech, with more than 34 driver assist systems. Besides the ones that provide autonomous braking, lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, there is also IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist which allows semi-autonomous driving by combining the predictive Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist to make long-distance journeys safer and easier. It can be used up to 210 km/h.

Other new systems include Car2X – allowing local communication with other vehicles and the highways infrastructure in order to provide warnings of any danger ahead.

More flexible and spacious within
Inside, the new Volkswagen Multivan is more flexible and spacious than ever, with a new modular, lightweight seating system and innovative table. Seating layouts can be for 2 to 7 persons with removable seats and swivelling features.

The innovative multi-function table has been designed specially for the Multivan. Using the central track, it can be moved between any of the seating rows and also used as a centre console between the front seats. The table, which is completely removable, has adjustable height, three cupholders, and a storage bin.

The maximum cargo capacity with all rear seats removed is up to 4053 litres (depending on variant) with the longer 5173 mm version.

The new Multivan will go on sale later this year and while there will be a righthand drive version, it is hard to say whether it will be imported to Malaysia. The last time the model was sold (as the Caravelle) was in the 1990s when a small volume was assembled locally by Auto Dunia, which was then handling the Volkswagen brand.

Special deals for Volkswagen buyers and owners during June

2nd generation Toyota Mirai sets world distance record for hydrogen FCEV

Fuel cell technology for use in cars is still something in its infancy and only a few manufacturers have started to offer them commercially and even then, in limited numbers and markets. The Toyota Mirai is one of the fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) already in production, its first generation having been launched in 2014.

The second generation of the Mirai went on sale late last year and is currently available in Japan, North America and some European markets. As would be expected, has more advanced fuel cell technology that improves performance in many areas.

The compact, high-output Fuel Cell stack has smaller and lighter parts, and it has been specially designed for use with the TNGA GA-L platform. The FC stack sets a new record for specific power density at 5.4 kW/litre as maximum power has risen from 114 kW to 128 kW.

Click here to read more about the 2nd generation Toyota Mirai

More fuel capacity
The new Mirai also has increased fuel capacity (approximately 20%) which extends range. Hydrogen can be pumped in much faster than the fastest recharging time for an electric vehicle which can be up to 25 minutes. Its refuelling time is less than 5 minutes at a 700-bar refuelling station.

Over 1,000 kms travelled
This increased range has enabled the Mirai to break the world record for the distance driven with one fill of hydrogen – over 1,000 kms. The record-breaking run was done in France last month and the car was driven on public roads.

The Mirai can store a total volume of 5.6 kgs of green hydrogen. During the run, the average fuel consumption was 0.55 kg/100 kms, the distance and consumption being certified by an independent authority.

‘Eco-driving’ style used
Toyota does mention that, to achieve the 1,003-km driving distance record, the 4 drivers adopted an ‘eco-driving’ style. However, they did not use any special techniques and everyday drivers can also apply a similar driving style if they want to achieve good fuel economy. Under normal driving conditions, the Mirai has a claimed range of 650 kms with all tanks full.

“It’s an amazing challenge that we achieved with the new Mirai. Internally, it is the mindset of ‘Start your Impossible’, going beyond our own limits, that drives us, and we proved it again,” said Frank Marotte, CEO of Toyota France.

Second generation of Toyota’s Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell car goes on sale today

Even after you recover from COVID-19 infection, your quality of life may be affected and you will still suffer for a long period after that. So avoid being infected by taking the necessary measures to protect yourself as well as others – and also get your vaccination.

2nd generation Lexus NX

When the Lexus NX was launched in 2014, it arrived at the right time when SUVs were progressively downsizing as customers preferred more compact models. The RX had been a huge success ever since it was launched in 1997 and pushed the premium luxury makes into offering SUVs as well but new niches below it were growing.

Having proven to have a successful formula, the Lexus designers have not tried to make major changes visually, retaining the looks of the first generation for this new one. However, under all the sheet metal, the engineering is new and as would be expected, the structure and platform utilize the Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), in this case, the GA-K platform. This has similarities to the latest Toyota RAV4 but Lexus engineers would also have added enhancements for the NX.

The new Lexus has increased dimensions all round, with 20 mm more overall length, 20 mm extra width and a wheelbase that is 30 mm longer. Virtually every aspect is said to be new and only about 5% of the entire SUV has parts that can be found in the model it replaces.

GA-K platform
The GA-K architecture and platform gave the engineers a lightweight, highly rigid body with a low centre of gravity that made it easier for them to achieve the superior handling that was a target. The basic performance of the vehicle has been greatly improved, and it has the ‘Lexus Driving Signature’ which is said to achieve a balance between linear steering feel and driving force in an SUV.

4 powertrains, including a PHEV
Depending on the market, there are up to four powertrains with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The 4-cylinder combustion engines have 2.5-litre and 2.4-litre displacements, the latter with a turbocharger. The bigger engine is also part of two hybrid powertrains, one of which is the first plug-in (PHEV) hybrid for Lexus. While the brand has already gone further with an all-electric UX (the smaller SUV), it has so far been offering hybrids rather than PHEVs.

The NX PHEV is the big news and it comes with the E-FOUR AWD system with constantly variable front-to-rear torque distribution between 100:0 and 20:80 modes. Technical details are not available at this time although it is expected to be the most powerful NX variant that will be designated the NX 450h.

The hybrid versions are unlikely to be promoted strongly in Malaysia as, without any government incentives to offset their high price, they will be expensive. At this time, the government has mentioned having some sort of incentive program but some of its sounds like the one that was used the last time and brought prices of hybrid models down.

PHEV unlikely for Malaysia
So it is likely that Lexus Malaysia will focus on the combustion engine versions, and most likely that 2.4-litre turbocharged one (above) which has a new high-torque Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission and and a newly developed electronically-controlled full-time AWD system. There is also an F Sport version which could be the top version offered.

Tazuna Concept
The cabin has a cockpit design based on the Tazuna Concept, an interior concept first introduced in the LF-30 Electrified concept car in 2019. The word ‘tazuna’ is derived from the ‘reins’ used to control horses, and applied to the NX cockpit layout, it aims to give the driver stronger interaction with the vehicle.

The layout of the information system components leading from the Head-Up Display to the metters and to the centre display allows for smoother, less distracted eye movement while driving. In addition, the start button, shift lever, and drive mode select switch are placed around the steering wheel where they can be operated more naturally.

The ratio of the driver and passenger floor is designed to create the optimal space. For the interior colour scheme, a diverse colour line-up is offered, with the newly developed ‘3D Cutting Black’ theme. This is a geometric pattern that gradually becomes denser towards the rear to help enhance the sense of dynamism and advanced technology.

64 colours of interior illumination are used to accentuate the beauty of the interior shapes and materials, colouring the entire cockpit. 14 recommended colors are preset, these expressing the emotions and changes in feelings that occur when looking at beautiful natural phenomena. If a driver desires to freely select other colors, they can choose from 50 other colors in the color palette of the centre display, providing an atmosphere that better aligns with their mood.

Lexus also provides owners with a Digital Key which uses a special application on a compatible smartphone. This can lock, unlock, and start the engine without operating the screen anddDigital keys can be shared between smartphones, making it possible for family and friends to borrow and lend vehicles remotely.

Lexus Safety System+
The new NX has a more advanced Lexus Safety System+ with the existing features and functions enhanced for better and more intelligent performance. For example, the detection range of the millimetre-wave radar and monocular camera are expanded, while an advanced driving support technology provides safe, secure and smooth parking. Additionally, a new function has been added to allow remote parking using a smartphone.

Replacing the latch/unlatch mechanism of the doors with electrical control by switches (e-Latch) makes for smoother and effortless operation. This complements the Safe Exit Assist (SEA) system which is linked to the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) sensor and e-latch system. When exiting the vehicle, the system uses the sensors of the BSM to detect vehicles approaching from behind, including bicycles. If the system determines that there is a possibility of a collision with an open door or an alighting occupant, the indicator in the outer mirror will light up to alert the driver.

In addition, if the driver tries to open the door, the system cancels the door opening in cooperation with the e-latch system. This world-first system notifies the occupants with a buzzer, flashing indicator in the outer mirror, display on the meter, and voice notification.

Lexus reveals DIRECT4 technology for future hybrids and EVs

Honda’s IGNITION program helps start new businesses proposed by employees

In many factories, one of the many practices where employees can be involved in improving processes or quality has been the suggestion system, for which they are rewarded if their ideas are adopted.

Honda also has a program called IGNITION which was started in 2017 by Honda R&D Co., Ltd., its research and development subsidiary. This is a business creation program where Honda employees can propose new business ideas and then implement the technologies, ideas or products to help solve societal problems and create new value for people.

Since being initiated, many applications have been received for new business ideas as well as numerous suggestions that fit with Honda’s business activities and are already being pushed internally towards commercialization.

Bringing new ideas to the market
There have also been proposals with added social value that can be implemented more quickly in the form of a start-up instead of being implemented within the Honda organization. In 2020, IGNITION was therefore expanded to include the option of bringing new business ideas to the market by setting up companies.

Ashirase system for visually impaired
The first company to emerge from the IGNITION program in this way is Ashirase Inc., which will develop an in-shoe navigation system to support the visually impaired while walking. The system, also called ‘Ashirase’, uses a smartphone app and 3-dimensional vibration device including a motion sensor, which is attached inside the shoe.

With the concept of ‘navigation which enables safety and a relaxed state of mind for the visually impaired’, Ashriase is being developed as a product which helps the users reach their destinations safely and have a more independent lifestyle.

The IGNITION program was originally for Honda R&D but is now expanded to the entire company for full-time employees in Japan to drive new business ideas. The ideas will not come from engineers but also of employees from other areas such as production, sales and even administration.

*Ashirase system uses a smartphone app and 3-dimensional vibration device including a motion sensor, which is attached inside the shoe.*

Evaluated from investor’s perspective
IGNITION works with a corporation that, as one of the jurors, evaluates the proposals from the perspective of an investor. In addition, applicants have access to advice and support from the corporation during the assessment process.

The decision on whether to market is made within 6 months and the marketing will be done by Honda itself or through the establishment of a start-up company. In order to preserve the independence of the start-up company, Honda’s equity stake is limited to a maximum of 20%.

“There are many employees at Honda who want to contribute to social development with their technologies and ideas. IGNITION is a program that promotes and develops these ideas and technologies among Honda employees and helps them create new values that contribute to solving societal problems,” explained the Head of the IGNITION Jury and Managing Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Yasuhide Mizuno (who was a former MD & CEO of Honda Malaysia).

“We are now expanding the program to all employees in Japan and offering them the additional option of starting their own business. The hurdles for starting a business are very high, but we hope that IGNITION will continue to drive the challenging spirit at Honda and enable us to create new products and experiences that go beyond our core business,” said Mr. Mizuno.

Click here for more news and articles about Honda.

Art works accepted as payment for Polestar 1

Polestar, the company created as a joint venture between Volvo and Geely Holdings, is known for exploring new ways of operating in the car industry. For example, rather than following the decades-old way of selling cars via a network of dealerships, it is connecting directly to the customer with a digital sales model through its website or via an app.

Its latest idea is a first-of-its-kind initiative which allows artists and collectors to trade art for a Polestar 1, a low-volume model which will have production coming to an end later in 2021. It’s not known exactly how many cars have been built at the factory in China although the company did mention, in 2019, that its production run would be 500 cars a year over a 3-year period.

The halo electric performance hybrid has a price of 155,000 euros (about RM777,720) and Polestar will consider all forms of art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, installations and more. It is Polestar’s intention to, after a period of ownership, sell the art, either via the above auction houses or through the dealers that represent the artists. So the items are not going to end up permanently on display at the company’s headquarters or CEO’s office.

“I love the idea of letting artists and collectors buy a Polestar 1 with art – it is such a special car and we wanted to find a unique way of celebrating it before its production reaches an end. It is hand-made, precious and tangible, much like a piece of art,” said Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar.

Polestar’s initiative comes amidst a recent art boom with new ways of trading art emerging, from non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to a pair of Kanye West-designed shoes selling for US$1.8 million at a recent auction – as well as auction prices for classic and contemporary art recently soaring.

“Historically, many significant art transactions have taken place outside of what we today associate with the art market,” explained Theodor Dalenson, a leading private art advisor who serves as Polestar’s advisor on this initiative. “Going back several hundred years in time, art trading mainly took place between artists and patrons. Painters like Picasso were known to trade sketches for restaurant meals. Polestar’s initiative is essentially a very natural extension of the tradition of art being used as payment for precious goods.”

Incoming proposals will be reviewed by Dalenson and, if deemed relevant, receive a valuation estimate by the two largest auction houses: Sotheby’s and Philips.

The scheme began on June 10, 2021, and will be on until August 15, 2021 in Europe and North America.

In April 2021, a special edition Polestar 1 (above) was revealed at the Shanghai auto show, featuring a bespoke matte gold exterior paint job with matching brake calipers and black wheels. Inside, colour-matched gold stitching gives the interior an even more unique feel. A maximum of 25 will be built and a handful will be eligible for this initiative.

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Jaguar’s Series III V12 E-type reproduced by Building the Legend Limited

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