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Lower maintenance costs with Toyota Service Savers packages

Your vehicle has to be serviced regularly to keep it in optimum running condition which will give the best fuel economy and maximum performance. It’s also a condition of the warranty that you need to have the servicing done according to the schedule provided by the manufacturer.

To make regular servicing more convenient, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is introducing Toyota Service Savers (TSS), a maintenance package which can be purchased during a new vehicle purchase. The cost of the package can be included in the financing so it becomes part of the H-P loan amount that can be repaid over a number of years.

With the TSS package, the servicing costs are covered in advance and this means just sending the vehicle in for its scheduled service and not having to pay anything upon collection (unless there are items replaced or additional work done which is not part of the requirement).

The TSS package can be used at all 85 authorized Toyota service centres in Malaysia over a period of 5 years from the time of purchase. Prices of the TSS packages depend on the model, ranging from RM3,220 for the Vios (savings of RM469 compared to paying each time) to RM6,030 for the Hilux (savings of RM922).

The packages follow the servicing requirements for the model at recommended intervals (as listed in the Owner’s Service Manual) and include the fluids and parts specified for replacement. Only Toyota Genuine Parts or Toyota-approved items and materials are used.

As an added benefit, all TSS customers are entitled to a 10% discount for selected parts and 20% discount on wheel alignment & balancing as well air-conditioner servicing packages at all authorized Toyota Service Centres. So there are additional savings as well.

For more information of the Toyota Service Savers Package, customers can contact any authorized Toyota showroom or service centre. For the nearest location, visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).

Two more UMW Toyota Motor branch outlets transferred to dealers

All-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class set to be a pioneer in safety features again (w/VIDEOS)

Mercedes-Benz will be launching its all-new S-Class (W223) next month and typical of the company when it comes to the prelude to a new model, information usually trickles out to highlight the innovations that the new model will introduce. In the case of the new S-Class, the company has released details of its enhanced PRE-SAFE system which has been constantly evolving since first being introduced in the 2003 S-Class (W220).

A new function is PRE-SAFE Impulse Side, which sees augmented measures in the pre-impact phase: when a side impact is likely, the car’s body can be raised up to 80 mm by the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension (an optional feature) within a few tenths of a second. This directs the impact forces towards particularly resistant structures in the lower area of the bodywork.

There are also new occupant protection measures which are derived from many of the innovations in the ESF2019 Experimental Safety Vehicle. Firstly, the rear occupants will have the additional protection of airbags and this is the world’s first frontal airbag for the two passengers on the outer rear seats.

2019 Mercedes-Benz Experimental Safety Vehicle — *ESF 2019 – the first Experimental Safety Vehicle from Mercedes-Benz that also presents concepts for the special challenges of automated driving.*

Its design with an innovative, tubular structure is unique. The cylindrical structures are inflated with compressed gas and deploy a wing-shaped structure. A large, tent-like airbag then deploys between the two wings and this is inflated by the surrounding air via specially patented valves in the skin. These valves are designed so that the air cannot escape when the rear passenger is immersed in the airbag.

The comparatively small volume of the tubes allows rapid deployment of a relatively large airbag volume. This takes place with comparatively low force and a low risk of injury, as the tubular wings give way to obstacles. The airbag enhances the restraining effect of the belt system, and can support the head and neck to decrease the loads on them significantly. In combination with a beltbag and the inflatable seatbelt, the S-Class will set new standards for rear seat occupant safety.

Also new is a centrally located airbag (availability depends on country) between the driver and front passenger seat. During a severe side impact, the airbag positions itself between the driver and front passenger seat, reducing the risk of their heads making contact. It is integrated into the driver’s seatback in the middle of the car. The airbag is triggered when a severe side collision is recognised, and certain conditions are met.

There will also be new illuminated designer belt buckles (also optional) which are easy to locate. It’s a small touch which some may say is unnecessary cost, but it should make attaching the seatbelt easier.

In combination with the MBUX Interior Assistant, a camera can now be used to detect a childseat on the front passenger seat for the first time. A belt fastening message for the childseat appears in the central display before the driver moves off. Until now, and in many cars, the presence of a childseat is usually determined by a sensor in the front passenger’s seat.

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223 — *Occupants will get a warning as they open the door if there is a vehicle or cyclist approaching from the rear.*

The new S-Class will have the latest generation of the Driving Assistance Package with new and numerous improved functions. One of the two examples which Mercedes-Benz is revealing now is Active Blind Spot Assist to prevent opening of the door when another vehicle is coming up along the side of the car. The exit warning function now will give a warning as soon as the driver or front passenger reaches for the door. The MBUX Interior Assistant will recognise when a hand approaches the door handle and a visual warning is given by a red warning triangle in the exterior mirror and via the active ambient lighting.

2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223Meet the S-Class DIGITAL: „Innovation by Intelligence“: Fahrvergnügen auf höchstem Niveau: geschützt und unterstütztMeet the S-Class DIGITAL: "Innovation by Intelligence": Driving enjoyment at the highest level: protected and supported — In a traffic jam on the highway, at speeds not more than 60 km/h, the car adjusts its movements to the surrounding vehicles as if part of a swarm, helping the driver to create an emergency corridor by moving to one side. This will allow emergency vehicles to proceed past more easily to reach an accident site ahead.

Active Steering Assist is another example and this will assist the driver in forming an emergency corridor, and encourage other drivers to form a corridor as well. Thanks to improved environmental sensors and integration into MBUX, the parking systems give the driver even better support when manoeuvring at low speed. 12 ultrasonic sensors at the front and rear provide improved performance so the positions of road-users and objects can be registered reliably and highly precisely.

Mercedes-Benz starts preview of next S-Class with details of new MBUX

Fuel price updates for August 1 to August 7, 2020

Audi goes further with its digital OLED technology (w/VIDEO)

Last month, a new generation of lighting technology made its debut in the Audi Q5: digital OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) technology. The use of OLEDs is not new to the German carmaker and in fact, Audi was a pioneer as far back as in 2016.

What are OLEDs?
OLED light sources are panel radiators, unlike point light sources such as LEDs using semiconductor crystals. The benefits of OLEDs are that their light is extremely homogeneous, infinitely dimmable and has very high contrast. The light can be split into segments which are individually controllable and can develop diverse levels of brightness, with minimal gaps between the segments.

The lighting unit does not require any reflectors, optical fibres or similar optics. This makes OLED units very efficient, lightweight and flat, which considerably increases design freedom. An OLED lighting element is just one mm thin, while conventional LED solutions require much greater installed depths of 20 to 30 mm.

The energy requirement of an OLED is also significantly lower than that of LED optics if the latter are to achieve similar homogeneity. Audi’s OLED technology made its production debut in the taillight of the TT RS1 in 2016. Up to now, Audi models using OLED lighting technology have had up to 4 individually controllable, complex lighting segments that could be used for an individual, defined lighting design.

The advantage of digital OLEDs
But now it’s the age of digitalization and this technology promises to improve road safety and is the first to allow for personalization of the taillight signature. Audi’s new digital OLEDs have a larger number of individually controllable segments that can now be randomly activated, with continuous variability of brightness.

In the Q5, three tiles of 6 units each (18 segments per lamp) are currently used. The high precision and great variability offer light designers a wealth of opportunities, using just one type of hardware. Q5 customers opting for digital OLED technology have a choice of three signatures in the taillights when purchasing their car. In the ‘dynamic’ Audi drive select mode, the lamps additionally switch to another signature.

More dynamic signalling
Moreover, animation effects such as coming-home/leaving-home lighting scenarios can be implemented, plus the dynamic flashing light has been integrated in the new lamp units as well.

In the new Q5, Audi has implemented a proximity detection feature for the versions using digital OLED taillights. When another road user approaches a stationary Q5 from the rear within less than 2 metres, all the OLED segments light up. When the Q5 starts to move, it returns to the original light signature. This is just an initial example of the automobile’s car-to-x communication with its surroundings.

Further advancements
Further down the road, there will be clearly more segments per taillight, allowing for even greater personalization of signature lighting. For instance, predefined symbols might be displayed to provide other road-users with early warnings of hazards such as slippery roads or the tail ends of traffic jams.

“Up to now, we have been using OLED segmentation with the Audi TT RS1 and A8 for designing signature lighting. This has changed with the Q5,” said OLED technology project manager Dr. Werner Thomas. “Here the taillights turn into a kind of display on the outer shell, which will provide us with ample opportunities and prospects in terms of design, personalization, communication and safety going forward.”

Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback Concept

Lamborghini Essenza SCV12 to deliver ‘purest track experience’

“With Essenza SCV12, we wanted to elevate not only performance and driving pleasure but also the experience off the track.” And with that promise, Stefano Domenicali, CEO & Chairman of Automobili Lamborghini, unveiled the Essenza SCV12, a track-only hypercar in a limited edition of 40 units.

Developed by Lamborghini Squadra Corse and designed by Lamborghini Centro Stile, the Essenza SCV12 is the direct descendant of cars such as the Miura Jota and Diablo GTR. It is propelled by the most powerful V12 naturally aspirated engine ever developed by Lamborghini, combined with aerodynamics inspired by racing prototypes and new technical solutions designed for the ultimate driving experience.

“Essenza SCV12 represents the purest track driving experience that our brand can offer, an engineering feat that highlights the inextricable link between our cars and the asphalt of the track. Lamborghini is a brand constantly looking to the future and searching for new challenges, but we never forget our roots and who we are: Essenza SCV12 is the perfect combination of our unconventional spirit as a super sports car manufacturer and our true passion for motorsport,” said Mr. Domenicali.

Born for the track
The Essenza SCV12 was created for exclusive track use, with engineering solutions derived from racing. The V12 engine can generate over 830 bhp, with a significant power uplift from the RAM effect at high speeds. The exhaust pipes were designed by Capristo to reduce the back pressure, improving performance and emphasizing the unique sound of the engine.

The power is handled by a new X-trac sequential 6-speed gearbox as a structural element within the chassis, combined with rear-wheel drive to ensure compactness, structural continuity, and greater torsional stiffness.

Not surprisingly, the Essenza SCV12 has an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 1.66 bhp/kg, thanks to the lighter weight of the new-generation carbonfibre monocoque chassis without internal rollcage. It is also the first GT car developed in accordance with FIA prototype safety rules.

To ensure maximum agility and stability on even the most demanding tracks, kinematic solutions inspired by racing prototypes have been adopted. These include the pushrod rear suspension installed directly on the gearbox. Specific slick Pirelli tyres are mounted on magnesium rims (19 inches in front, 20 inches at the rear), which frame the brake discs and calipers developed by Brembo Motorsport.

“Essenza SCV12 is the ultimate expression of the V12 naturally aspirated engine, the symbol of our brand since 1963. It is a project in which we combined the pursuit of engineering perfection with refined aerodynamics, futuristic design, and innovative solutions such as the carbon monocoque without internal roll-cage. The result is an engaging and uncompromising car, born to race and to showcase on the track the characteristics that have made Lamborghini famous worldwide, guaranteeing unique and special emotions for both the driver and onlookers,” said Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer of Automobili Lamborghini.

Aerodynamics from racing experience
The aerodynamics benefit from Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s GT racing experience to ensure a level of efficiency and higher downforce levels than a GT3 car, with a value of 1,200 kgs at 250 km/h. The front bonnet has a double air intake with a central rib, typical of the Huracan racing cars, which separates the hot airflow coming from the radiator and conveys the cold air to the airscoop located on the roof.

The front features a splitter and two lateral elements; on the sides, the flows for engine and gearbox cooling have been optimized through the use of vertical fins situated on the side sills. The aerodynamic package is completed by the large adjustable double-profile rear wing.

Lamborghini DNA in design
The sleek yet taut and dynamic lines combine the appeal of 1970s prototypes and elements typical of Lamborghini’s DNA, like the hexagonal geometry that characterizes the front headlights, and the roof airscoop and air vents that frame the steering wheel. There is also the unmistakable “Y”, the stylistic feature repeated on the livery and in the cockpit, where each element represents the best compromise between lightweight, functionality and design.

The instrument panel and dashboard are supported by an asymmetrical carbon ‘Y’, a load-bearing and stylistic element that frames the cockpit, designed to put the driver at the centre of an absolute driving experience.

Exclusive driving experience for owners
Essenza SCV12 customers will become part of an exclusive club that will give them access to special programs to drive their hypercar on the most prestigious circuits in the world. The program includes storage service in a new hangar built in Sant’Agata Bolognese for the Essenza SCV12 club. Each car will have a personalized garage and dedicated services, including webcams to allow customers to monitor their cars 24 hours a day using an app.

The facility also houses the Lamborghini Squadra Corse Drivers Lab by Tecnobody to offer athletic training programs similar to those followed by the official Lamborghini racing drivers.

The top comes off the Lamborghini Sian Coupe with a Roadster variant

New Volvo 3S centre opened in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

In its aim to increase its presence in the country, Volvo Car Malaysia has not forgotten East Malaysia. Last November, it appointed Sebangga Mitsinbo Sdn. Bhd as a dealer-partner in Sabah and recently, the same business partner opened a new 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) centre in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.

Sebangga Mitsinbo Sdn. Bhd. (part of the Sebangga Group and formerly known as Sebangga Auto) joins Volvo Car Malaysia’s network of 13 dealers across the country. It is the sole authorised Volvo car dealer for the state of Sabah.

“Volvo Car Malaysia and the Sebangga Group share the same vision of protecting what is important, which is why we are honoured to have Sebangga Mitsinbo as our 14th 3S centre in Malaysia. As a brand, we want to enable a dynamic driving experience for our Sabahan customers, as they journey on the road, in life and with the brand, while also caring for the planet through a more sustainable drive with Volvo Cars,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia.

“With the establishment of a 3S centre in Kota Kinabalu, it reinforces our commitment to make roads safer – our vision is that no one should be seriously injured or killed in a new Volvo car. With this partnership, our hope for this new dealership is to make premium, safe and quality vehicles accessible to the Sabahan community and from there, spur a movement of being safe on the road,” he added.

Volvo Retail Experience
Inspired by the brand’s Scandinavian-inspired ideals and heritage, the Sebangga Mitsinbo 3S Centre adheres to Volvo Car’s retail standard – the Volvo Retail Experience (VRE). The open space and minimalistic-but-functional furniture are part of the Volvo design language which creates a contemporary luxury experience.

The two-storey space features a showroom at the ground floor, a service centre, a Volvo Car Lifestyle Collection and an Accessories showcase. Volvo’s latest models will be on display and visitors can request for test drives of the XC40, XC60, XC90, S60 and S90.

Volvo XC40 — *XC40 – one of the Volvo models in the current range.*

“This partnership with Volvo resonates well with our vision, in that we, too, value life above all. With Volvo being the pioneers in automotive safety, we are proud to carry the brand under our group and continue to strengthen their position as well as our mutual goal in protecting what is important. The addition of this 3S centre here in Sabah is part of our journey together with Volvo to help make roads safer for passengers and vehicles,” said Dato’ Arif Ambrose Ng, Chairman of Sebangga Group.

“At Volvo Cars, we understand that the value, quality and accessibility of services are just as important as the car, which is why we remain committed to ensuring that all of our customers experience a seamless and premium journey of acquiring and owning a Volvo car,” said Mr. Nalin.