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Mention Cadillac and most people outside the USA will have an image of a big, heavy, fuel-guzzling limousine. That’s what the cars of the 118-year old company looked like for decades, with the ultimate being ‘The Beast’ which is the nickname of the car used by the US President.

Like the other American carmakers, Cadillac was aware of the need to be indifferent to the issue of fuel consumption, especially after the energy crises of the 1970s. But it still had big engines that traditional customers liked, although new technologies helped make them fuel-efficient and new materials and engineering reduced weight.

But there’s a limit to how much an internal combustion engine can be improved, and manufacturers are now switching to electric motors that require no fossil fuel at all. Cadillac is readying for the transition. It has revealed its first all-electric vehicle (EV) as a concept model with the production version expected to go on sale in late 2022,

Cadillac LYRIQ

Cadillac LYRIQ

To use GM’s Ultium EV platform
Known as the LYRIQ, this is a crossover SUV based on GM’s next-generation, modular EV platform and driven by the Ultium propulsion system. With range being one of the biggest factors when it comes to selecting an EV, the target is 480 kms or more of range on a full charge. Charging options that fit a variety of preferences include DC fast-charging rates over 150 kW and Level 2 charging rates up to 19 kW.

The Ultium’s NCMA (nickel-cobalt-manganese-aluminium) chemistry uses aluminium in the cathode to help reduce the need for rare-earth materials such as cobalt. In fact, GM engineers reduced the cobalt content by more than 70%, compared to current GM batteries.

GM Ultium battery pack
GM Ultium battery pack and platform.

The advanced battery chemistry is packed in large, flat pouch cells that enable smart module construction to reduce complexity and simplify cooling needs. Additionally, the battery electronics are incorporated directly into the modules, eliminating nearly 90% of the battery pack wiring, compared to GM’s current electric vehicles.

Within the LYRIQ, the Ultium battery system is a structural element of the architecture, integrated in ways that contribute to ride and handling, as well as safety. In fact, the lower centre of gravity and near 50/50 weight distribution enabled by the placement of the battery pack provides benefits to handling.

Cadillac LYRIQ

Additionally, the LYRIQ is driven primarily by the rear wheels, with a performance all-wheel drive option available. The placement of the drive motor at the rear gives an even greater feeling of balance and agility. It also enables the system to channel more torque to the pavement without wheelspin for exhilarating acceleration and greater cornering capability.

Vehicles equipped with performance all-wheel drive go a step further, with a second drive unit placed at the front which allows for a significant amount of tuning flexibility, enhancing vehicle dynamics and performance.

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New architecture, new possibilities
Inside, the LYRIQ’s new architecture opens up possibilities in spaciousness and design, encouraging the designers to rethink how to use the space and where to locate various interior elements. The more airy, minimalistic design does more to involve the driver and passengers in the driving experience while offering exceptional functionality when it comes to storage solutions.

The LYRIQ is said to offer Cadillac’s highest level of driver information, infotainment and connectivity integration. A 33-inch diagonal advanced LED display integrates a single, large screen that spans the viewing area for the driver and incorporates driver information details, infotainment controls and camera views.

Cadillac LYRIQ

This new display has the highest pixel density currently available in the automotive industry and can display over one billion colours. That’s 64 times more than any other vehicle in the industry.

A new dual-plane augmented reality-enhanced head-up display employs two planes: a near plane indicating speed, direction and more, and a far plane displaying transparent navigation signals and other important alerts.

Active noise cancellation technology
For the first time, Cadillac will introduce a new road noise cancellation technology, which takes active noise cancellation to the next level by introducing more microphones and accelerometers. With this new system, Cadillac’s performance and audio engineers can target the frequency range of tyre cavity noise, reducing the noise level in the vehicle and allowing for a quieter in-cabin experience.

Cadillac LYRIQ

The LYRIQ builds on the brand’s exclusive partnership with AKG. The objective was to deliver a sound experience that would transport the driver into a recording studio. The result is a 19-speaker AKG Studio audio system that delivers exceptionally crisp and precise sound reproduction.

“Led by LYRIQ, Cadillac will redefine American luxury over the next decade with a new portfolio of transformative EVs,” said Steve Carlisle, Executive Vice-President & President, GM North America. “We will deliver experiences that engage the senses, anticipate desires and enable our customers to go on extraordinary journeys.”

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Race starts at 2:10 pm British time/9:10 pm Malaysian time

Following the British Grand Prix a week ago, F1 extends its stay at Silverstone this weekend with Round 5 of the 2020 FIA Formula One World Championship – the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix. The event has been named in celebration of the inaugural World Championship, the first event of which was the British (and honorary European) Grand Prix which took place at Silverstone on May 13th, 1950.

The circuit is noted for its fast, flowing corners but the intricacies of the lower-speed ‘Arena’ section between Abbey and the Wellington Straight are often where time is to be gained or lost. Silverstone is a difficult circuit on which to overtake and qualifying position is frequently paramount: thus, these sections receive just as much attention in set-up discussions as the famed high-speed turns at Copse, Stowe and the Maggotts-Becketts-Chapel complex.

Formula 1

Silverstone

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Silverstone

Formula 1

Whereas last weekend’s British Grand Prix used the three hardest compounds in Pirelli’s range, a change in allocation this weekend alters the complexion of the race. For the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, the allocation moves a step softer with C2, C3 and C4 tyres available.

While every team converged on a one-stop strategy last Sunday, the use of softer tyres on a fast, high-energy circuit makes a similar plan inherently risky this weekend. With a two-stop race more likely, greater strategic options come into play on the fast Silverstone layout.

“This weekend at Silverstone will be a real challenge with higher temperatures and softer compounds. The hotter conditions brought the field closer together last week and the softer tyres will mean more pit stops and more variability with strategy, so we can expect a good fight,” said Toto Wolff, Mercedes-AMG team boss.

After 4 rounds, Mercedes-AMG driver Lewis Hamilton already has a commanding lead of 30 points in the race for the Drivers’ Championship. His closest rival is team-mate Valtteri Bottas, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen a further 6 points back.

Drivers Championship after 4 rounds

Ferrari F1

Formula 1

Formula 1

With the contribution made by Hamilton’s victories, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team has an equally daunting advantage in the Constructors’ Championship table, enjoying a 68-point lead. The controversy over the brake ducts on the BWT Racing Point car, which were the subject of a protect by the Renault team, reached a conclusion yesterday as the FIA decided to deduct 15 championship points from the team’s current standing. They have also been fined €400,000 (about RM1.97 million).

BWT Racing Point

BWT Racing Point will be appealing but Ferrari, McLaren and Renault have also issued statement that declare an intention to appeal against that decision. There are other issues which have come to light which the teams now want the FIA to clarify.

Constructors Championship after 4 rounds
*: BWT Racing Point had a 15-point deduction for a technical issue.

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Volvo Car Malaysia’s Merdeka Campaign this year pays homage to the country’s 63rd National Day with the belief that good things come in three. And so it will centre upon three Volvo sedans – the S60 T8 R-Design, S90 T8 Inscription Plus and S90 T8 Special Edition – with three special deals – free first-year insurance, free Polestar optimisation package and free 5-year service maintenance (VSA5+).

“Coming off the back of our most successful month since the inception of Volvo Car Malaysia in 1999, with 286 units sold in July, we hope that our Volvo 2020 Merdeka Campaign will spur Malaysians to consider the additional benefits of having a car that is powerful yet safe. As an automotive brand, we are committed to making the roads safer for both drivers and passengers through leading safety features and innovation that have been carefully engineered into our cars. Together with our legacy in Malaysia and our Swedish heritage, we want to continue to provide safer, more sustainable and premium experiences for more generations of Malaysians to come,” said Nalin Jain, MD of Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM).

Besides the special deals, VCM is also adding extra deals for buyers of the S90 Inscription Plus and S90 T8 Special Edition. For the former, there’s a RM15,000 voucher to purchase accessories while those who buy the latter will get a complimentary exterior styling kit and a 20-inch rim and tyre package worth RM35,000.

Volvo

Through this campaign, Volvo Car Malaysia is also offering everyone a chance to own exclusive Volvo merchandise such as watches, sunglasses, electric ride-on cars for children and more, at a special bundled price of RM1,957. There is a bundle deal for men, women and children, with each category consisting of specific lifestyle items.

Volvo
A Volvo for the little ones.

Finally, in collaboration with Thule Malaysia, Volvo Car owners who present their car key when purchasing any Thule Crossover 2 luggage bags and backpacks will be given a Thule Subterra PowerShuttle Organiser worth RM119. They will also receive a 15% discount on all Thule items until the end of December 2020.

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Though it has a variety of models, vehicles made in India have not have a significant impact on the world market. But that should change, thanks to Kia Motors which has today unveiled the Sonet, and the Korean brand’s made-in-India global product after the Seltos.

Manufactured at Kia’s state-of-the-art production facility at Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, the Sonet is Kia’s latest all-new urban compact SUV., It marks the brand’s entry into the competitive and still growing compact SUV segment, with first-in-class features that are said to set new benchmarks.

The Sonet will be launched in India soon, followed by exports to many other markets around the world. Pricing ranges from Rs 8 lakh to Rs 13 lakh (about RM47,000 – RM73,000) in the domestic market.

2020 Kia Seltos

Another tiger nose grille interpretation
The Sonet incorporates Kia’s DNA of emotive styling, displaying a dynamic stance in a compact body. Up front, a fresh interpretation of Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ mesh grille pays respects to India’s historic strengths in sophisticated mathematics, science and architecture. The 3-dimensional geometric design inspired by India’s iconic stepwells.

It is flanked by ‘heartbeat’ LED DRLs (daytime running lights). Shaped like the electric pulse of a heart, the theme is also used for the rear lighting units. A stylish front skidplate contributes to the rugged image while the silhouette incorporates a unique design and structure for the C-pillar, matched with a wraparound rear windscreen.

2020 Kia Seltos

2020 Kia Seltos

Compact outside, ergonomic inside
Inside, the Sonet is designed around the driver, with a well laid-out, easy-to-use connected infotainment and cluster interface. Despite compact exterior dimensions, the interior of the Sonet offers ample space for all passengers with ergonomic considerations met.

To suit a wide array of customers, the Sonet will be offered in a dual trim concept. This will include the sporty GT-Line trim for enthusiasts. GT-Line models are finished with contrast red stitching on the steering wheel, seats and door armrest, with a D-cut steering wheel for the driver.

2020 Kia Seltos

The dashboard has the largest-in-segment 10.25-inch HD touchscreen with infotainment and navigation system which uses Kia’s connected car technology. Additionally, the 4.2-inch instrument cluster presents important information to the driver in vivid colour and clarity, such as turn-by-turn navigation instructions, tyre pressure, drive mode and traction mode selection.

To create a concert-like ambience, the Sonet is the only vehicle in its category to offer audio performance from BOSE, with a 7-speaker system. Other mood enhancers include the LED Sound Mood Lighting, introducing a level of personalisation unique to this segment, as well as a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function. The two front seats are ventilated, which should be a welcome feature in hot climates.

2020 Kia Seltos

Important for these times is Kia’s Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus protection. This is a 2-level purification system with a pollutant-cleansing HEPA N29 filter. The filter uses fibre made from nano-ionic bonding technology of copper sulphide, effective in removing pollutants and bacteria from the cabin air. The second level of filtration is achieved with a UV-C LED beam, UV rays having been proven to kill bacteria.

Multiple powertrain options
The Sonet will be offered with multiple powertrain options to suit different markets. There’s a choice of two petrol engines – a Smartstream 1.2-litre 4-cylinder unit and a 1.0 T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) – as well as an efficient 1.5-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine.

Customers will be able to choose from up to 5 transmission types (depending on market) – 5 and 6-speed manuals, a 7-speed DCT, 6-speed automatic, and Kia’s revolutionary new 6-speed Smartstream intelligent manual transmission (iMT). The iMT is said to be a technological breakthrough from Kia, offering fatigue-free driving by omitting a clutch pedal. For the first time in this segment, the Sonet also offers a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

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The ride and handling have been tuned by Kia engineers at the brand’s Namyang R&D headquarters in Korea as well as at the brand’s Development Centre at Anantapur. Sonet prototypes have been driven and tested for over 100,000 kilometres on Indian roads, across a variety of conditions, to confirm durability and reliability.

2020 Kia Seltos

Aiming at millennials and Gen Z
“Kia Motors continues to be recognised globally through products which offer exquisite design and world-class quality, along with ‘The Power to Surprise’. Everything about the all-new Sonet is uniquely Kia and is sure to delight both drivers and passengers,” said Ho Sung Song, President & CEO of Kia Motors Corporation.

“With its aggressive and modern design language, fun-to-drive dynamics, and Kia’s latest high-tech features, the Sonet puts an exclamation point on our ambition to make Kia the brand of choice, especially among millennial and Gen Z consumers. The Sonet fills a need in the growing SUV market, in India and further afield, and will attract a wider number of consumers to the Kia brand,” he said with confidence.

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Having your own transport can certainly make life a lot easier – no need to get up earlier to catch public transport, more flexibility in daily movements and these days, less worry about crowded buses or coaches where there is a risk of getting infected with COVID-19. For graduates who are just starting to work, getting a loan to buy a car can sometimes be difficult as they don’t have a past record. Many loan applications require at least 3 months of prior employment and furthermore, they may also charge high interest rates initially.

Proton range 2020

Proton Commerce Sdn. Bhd. (PCSB), a unit of the Proton Group, understands this situation and has a campaign that provides fresh graduates with an opportunity to own their first car with low Hire-Purchase (H-P) loan rates. The campaign is on until December 31, 2020, coinciding with the sales tax holiday currently being offered for all Proton models.

Easier to qualify
This campaign only requires a letter of employment or a month’s salary slip in order to qualify for a loan. Starting at just 2.98% per annum, the rate offered by PCSB is currently one of the lowest in the segment. Basic requirements for a customer include being a graduate (minimum qualification diploma), be aged between 18-30 years, and have a job with a minimum salary of RM1,500.

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“In today’s connected economy, mobility is important for young adults just entering the workforce. It provides a sense of empowerment and autonomy to these graduates. We are confident that this package will assist fresh graduates to own a car, as monthly repayments start from as low as RM239 per month,” said Mooi Fi Phang, Chief Executive Officer of PCSB.

Lower interest rates
According to Mr. Mooi, the H-P loan industry is projected to experience a surge in the near future, as a result of recent reduction in the reduction of the Overnight Policy Rate and the exemption of sales tax for passenger vehicles. Therefore, in addition to the Fresh Graduate Campaign package, PCSB reduced the overall offering interest rates to as low as 2.22% based on customer creditability and margin of finance. This means customers would directly benefit as their lower monthly repayment would enable them to use the savings on essentials, and conserve some funds for emergencies.

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