Home - Piston.my

Piston.my

Latest News

Saudi Arabia and UAE Oil Giants Explore Lithium Extraction from Brine

In a bid to diversify their economies and capitalise on the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs), national oil companies in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are planning to extract lithium from brine in their oilfields.

The move signals a strategic shift for oil-producing nations as they seek alternative sources of wealth amidst the global transition away from fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia, in particular, has invested significantly in positioning itself as a hub for EVs under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Sources revealed that Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) are in the early stages of exploring lithium extraction from brine, which is considered a critical mineral due to its essential role in battery manufacturing for electric vehicles. However, specific details regarding the extraction technology were not disclosed, and both companies declined to comment on the matter.

Direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, although in its infancy, presents advantages such as avoiding the environmental challenges associated with traditional mining methods. By filtering lithium from saltwater brine, Saudi Arabia and the UAE can leverage their expertise in handling oil brine and wastewater at oil production sites.

(more…)

Porsche Partners with Blizzard for Overwatch 2 Macan EV Skin

Blizzard Entertainment has announced an exciting collaboration with Porsche for Overwatch 2 Season 10. The renowned gaming company will partner with the iconic car manufacturer to introduce new content, including a special version of the popular hero D.Va.

Images released by Blizzard Entertainment showcase the collaboration, depicting D.Va in a unique design inspired by Porsche’s iconic style. The collaboration will feature multiple new cosmetics and two legendary skins, with the D.Va skin being unveiled as the first offering.

D.Va, known for her cool demeanour and distinctive mech design, was the ideal hero to kick-start Overwatch 2’s collaboration with Porsche. With her love for engineering and dedication to improving her mech, D.Va resonates with Porsche’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

The back of D.Va’s mech is inspired by the design language of the all-new Porsche Macan Electric, adding a touch of automotive flair to the hero’s appearance.

Blizzard Entertainment expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating that they believe players will love D.Va’s new skin as much as they do.

Ministry Commences Feasibility Study on Lemon Law

The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has announced plans to initiate a feasibility study on the potential implementation of a Lemon Law. Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, Minister of the Ministry, revealed this development, highlighting the legislation’s aim to empower consumers facing vehicle breakdowns or quality standard violations.

The announcement follows a query by Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam), who sought updates on the government’s consideration of drafting a lemon law to safeguard consumers within the automotive industry.

A Lemon Law serves as a recourse for consumers purchasing products, especially vehicles, that repeatedly fail to meet quality and performance standards. Under such legislation, consumers may seek remedies such as price reductions or refunds.

According to The Star, Armizan assured that upon the completion of the feasibility study, a policy decision would be made at the Ministry level before proceeding with the legal framework’s implementation.

(more…)

Fastest ever Aston Martin Vantage: Official FIA Safety Car For F1

Aston Martin is set to revolutionise the front of the Formula 1 grid by introducing its most driver-focused Vantage ever. Designed to lead the pinnacle of motorsport around the world’s Grand Prix circuits, the new Vantage is primed to take up its role as the Official FIA Safety Car of Formula 1.

The high-performance Vantage, specially equipped for its safety role, will lead the pack of F1 cars on the formation lap for this weekend’s Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024. Positioned at the exit of the pit lane, it stands ready to intervene and control the pace of the race if required.

Powered by a hand-built 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine, the new Vantage boasts a 30% increase in power over its predecessor, making it the fastest of its breed. Despite its formidable performance, the Vantage required no engine upgrades, cooling system changes, or braking enhancements to fulfil its role as the FIA Safety Car.

Bernd Mayländer, FIA Safety Car Driver, praised the Aston Martin Vantage’s impressive handling and power, essential qualities for swift and safe on-track deployment. Mayländer expressed his delight in driving the new Vantage, equipped with additional aerodynamics and bespoke features tailored for its safety role.

Inside the Vantage Safety Car, advanced systems assist the driver and passenger, including Pole Position Seats and a bespoke centre console with FIA switchgear. The interior, finished in Lime Essence trim, pays homage to Aston Martin’s racing heritage.

The Vantage Safety Car, along with the DBX707 Medical Car, will make its debut at the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024, painted in Aston Martin Racing Green colours to match the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team cars.

smart Malaysia Commences Deliveries of smart #1 Pro

smart Malaysia has officially commenced deliveries of its latest offering, the smart #1 Pro, heralding a new era in urban mobility. Positioned as an attractive entry-level addition to its product portfolio, the smart #1 Pro aims to cater to the diverse needs of urban drivers, providing a perfect everyday premium companion for individual mobility needs.

The smart #1 Pro is engineered to meet the standards of the premium class, offering an unparalleled all-electric driving experience with peak power at 268hp. Equipped with a 49kWh LFP Battery, it delivers a WLTP Range of 315km and can be fully charged in under 30 minutes under optimal conditions, thanks to its 130kW DC charging power. Comfort features include automatic 2-zone climate control, seat ventilation for both driver and front passenger, 19″ Alloy Wheels for stability, and a Panoramic Halo Roof for natural light and views. The variant offers a choice of five striking colour combinations and a unique interior colour, After Dark.

(more…)

Stellantis Invests Billions in Internal Combustion Engines Amid EV Shift

In defiance of forecasts heralding the end of the internal combustion engine (ICE) era, major automotive conglomerate Stellantis is intensifying its focus on piston-powered vehicles. With ownership of 14 brands under its umbrella, Stellantis is funnelling a staggering $6 billion investment into South America, earmarked for the development of new ICE technology and vehicles.

This mammoth investment, touted as the largest in South America’s automotive realm, is set to underpin the introduction of over 40 new vehicle models and the advancement of flex-fuel engines capable of running on both petrol and ethanol. In addition, Stellantis is charting the course for the rollout of hybrid-flex and plug-in hybrid-flex configurations to enhance efficiency, with plans for at least one fully electric vehicle slated to debut in the region between 2025 and 2030.