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All-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E debuts in Los Angeles, priced from around RM183,000

Mustang. Mention of the name brings to mind a musclecar, a legendary sportscar that has tyres smoking and subjects your body to high g-forces. An icon that Steve McQueen used to rocket through the streets of San Francisco in ‘Bullitt’ in 1968. Times may have changed since the Mustang was born in 1965 but it has always remained the epitome of the American sportscar – and it is today also the bestselling sports coupe in the world.

As a musclecar, the Mustang has always had big and powerful engines although, in response to the fuel crisis era, the second and third generations had a 2.3-litre 4-cylinder engine and for the current generation, a 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine. Nevertheless, big displacement was synonymous with a Mustang.

So the idea of a new Mustang which did not require petrol and instead ran on electricity; a crossover SUV design instead of a sleek coupe style; and two more doors must have had Ford’s engineers wondering what top management was thinking (or drinking). Yes, SUVs are a growing segment and manufacturers need to offer more environment-friendly vehicles but to change an iconic model so radically?

But the engineers took up the challenge and today, in Los Angeles, Ford Motor Company presented the first ever all-electric Mustang, called the Mach-E (pronounced ‘mark’-E). Bill Ford, the company’s Executive Chairman, says that the Mustang Mach-E will still give ‘the freedom, progress and fast performance it has been known for – with a touch of rebellion too’. In fact, he insisted that if it was to be a member of the Mustang family, those attributes were a must.

For a new generation of Mustang owners
“At the first-ever Detroit auto show, Henry Ford said he was working on something that would strike like forked lightning,” said the great-grandson of the man who founded the company. “That was the Model T. Today, the Ford Motor Company is proud to unveil a car that strikes like forked lightning all over again. The all-new, all-electric Mustang Mach-E. It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s freedom. For a new generation of Mustang owners.”

Developed in a century-old brick building a few blocks away from Henry Ford’s first factory in Detroit, Ford brought the Mustang Mach-E to life through a development process concentrated entirely on customer needs and desires. “People want a car that’s thrilling to drive, that looks gorgeous and that can easily adapt to their lifestyle – and the Mustang Mach-E delivers all of this in unmatched style,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Chief Product Development and Purchasing Officer.“ 51-year old Thai-Tang, of Vietnamese descent, has served as the chief engineer for the Mustang program, leading the design, development, and launch of the 2005 model year Mustang.

When it arrives in showrooms in late 2020, the Mustang Mach-E will be available with standard and extended-range battery options with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive powered by permanent magnet motors. Equipped with an extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive, the Mach-E has a targeted EPA-estimated range of at least 480 kms.

In extended-range all-wheel-drive configurations, the Mach-E is expected to produce 332 bhp/565 Nm of torque – with the standard all-wheel-drive variation having claimed times to 60 mph (96 km/h) quicker than the base Porsche Macan. Ford will also offer two special GT performance versions which can deliver up to 459 bhp and 830 Nm of torque.

In addition to blistering acceleration, the Mustang Mach-E will be available with Brembo’s all-new performance Flexira aluminium calipers, which maintain the functionality of a fixed caliper while being designed with the dimensions of a floating caliper. The GT Performance Edition is equipped with a MagneRide damping system, adaptive suspension technology that lets drivers hug the road while delivering an exciting, comfortable ride.

Hassle-free charging solutions
The Mustang Mach-E will be available with two battery pack options – standard-range (75.7 kWh lithium-ion battery) and extended-range (98.8 kWh battery). Designed for ease of manufacturing, the battery pack is located on the floor between the vehicle’s two axles – and tested at temperatures as extreme as -40 degrees F. The batteries are secured inside a waterproof battery case surrounded by crash-absorption protection. They are liquid-cooled to optimize performance in extreme weather and to improve charging times.

As electric vehicle owners have been found to do 80% of their charging at home, Ford offers a Ford Connected Charging station that can add an estimated average range of 50 kms per charging hour on a 240V outlet, based on extended-range, rear-wheel-drive configuration. The Ford mobile charger, included with the vehicle, can add an estimated average range of 35 kms per charging hour on a 240V outlet, the same used for a conventional oven.

The connected navigation system will provide the latest list of public charging locations during trips and prompt owners to charge at the most convenient points on each drive – all to help ensure they don’t have to be anxious about how much range they have. The FordPass Charging Network – the largest public charging network in the USA – has more than 12,500 charging stations (and more than 35,000 charge plugs) and growing, including DC fast chargers.

New meaning to ‘electrifying’
The Mustang Mach-E delivers three unique drive experiences – Whisper, Engage and Unbridled – with each offering finely tuned driving dynamics packaged with a distinct sensory experience. Features include custom-designed vehicle responsiveness such as sportier steering controls, ambient lighting, sounds tuned for an authentic all-electric experience, and dynamic cluster animations that are tied to driving behaviour.

On take-off, a new all-wheel drive system will be available that can apply torque independently to the front and rear axles to deliver impressive acceleration and improved handling over the rear-wheel drive model. Ford tuned this system to provide excellent traction on the road, rigorously testing the vehicle in wet and snowy terrain to help control for slippery conditions.

Recognisable as a Mustang
The Mach-E is instantly recognizable as a Mustang, thanks to signature elements such as its long, powerful bonnet, rear haunch design, aggressive headlights and trademark tri-bar taillamps. Clever design and engineering delivers surprising rear seat roominess and ample cargo space.

Using Ford’s new all-electric architecture that places batteries inside the underbody, Ford engineers and designers were able to create a car that’s not only true to Mustang but also maximizes SUV space for passengers and cargo.

Along with its all-new propulsion system, the Mach-E holds another surprise under its bonnet – a drainable front storage unit. Providing 136 litres of storage space, the front storage compartment is large enough to comfortably store the equivalent of a carry-on luggage bag. And because it’s drainable, customers can easily pack it full of ice and keep their favourite drinks cold.

Inside the Mach-E
To truly take advantage of the extra space provided by electrification, Ford designers worked extensively with customers to understand how they would prefer to use the interior of their vehicles. Designed with SUV-size proportions to seat 5 adults comfortably, there’s certainly plenty of space for friends, kids and cargo. In addition to the exterior front storage area, the rear cargo space offers 821 litres of space. With the rear seats down, this volume can increase to almost 1,700 litres.

Everywhere inside, the Mach-E represents a fusion of sleek, modern design and smart functionality. Premium available Bang & Olufsen speakers are seamlessly integrated across the front, floating above the air vents like a sound bar. A floating flip-up armrest doubles as a place to store purses or bags.

Even the available panoramic fixed-glass roof has a secret – a special glass coating with infrared protection helps the interior stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In addition, an inner layer between the glass helps protect against UV rays.

Finally, getting in and starting the vehicle is easy and effortless with Phone As A Key technology, which makes its debut in the Ford brand line-up in this latest Mustang. Using Bluetooth, the system can detect customers’ smartphones as they approach, unlocking the Mach-E and allowing them to start driving without getting their phones out of their pockets or using a key fob. A back-up code can be entered on the centre touchscreen to start and drive the vehicle in the event a phone battery dies.

New-generation SYNC system
Making its debut in the Mach-E is the next-generation SYNC communications and entertainment system, a sleek and modern interface that uses machine learning to quickly learn drivers’ preferences, and gets even better over time, thanks to advanced over-the-air updates. Its 15.5-inch screen and simple interface ditches complicated menus, making it easier to access features with touch, swipe and pinch controls that every smartphone owner will be comfortable using.

As next-generation SYNC evolves to serve customers better over time, Ford has outfitted the Mach-E with the ability to continuously improve through the delivery of secure over-the-air updates that are capable of enhancing vehicle performance, offering maintenance updates and even adding entirely new features. Like your smartphone, your Mach-E will be able to get updated software even without going into the service centre.

Online booking starts
In the US market, the Mustang Mach-E will have prices ranging from around US$43,895 to US$60,500 (about RM182,360 to RM250,350). Buyers will also be able to get tax incentives from the government of up to US$7,500 (RM31,160).

Customers can reserve their spot in line for the Mustang Mach-E by making a US$500 refundable reservation deposit. Those in the USA and Europe who wish to reserve a vehicle can select their desired specification, create a Ford account, select their preferred Ford dealer, and enter their credit/debit card details and address. When the ordering process commences next year, they will be able to finalize their configuration.

Want to buy a traditional Mustang to keep as a collector’s item? Sime Darby Auto ConneXion has some units for sale. Visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information.

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Nissan LEAF wins ‘Product of the Year’ award

The recent EE Pocket-lint Awards 2019 saw the Nissan LEAF e+ being crowned with the ‘Product of the Year’ award as well as ‘Best Car’ in a single night. Voted by the major players of the industry as well as the general public, the award ceremony celebrates the best of technologies, gadgets, and games that were released in the past 12 months. (more…)

Global debut of all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E this Sunday (w/VIDEOS)

In just two days, at an event in Los Angeles, Ford will unveil the much-anticipated Mustang Mach-E. It carries the name of the iconic sportscar but will be entirely different under the bonnet – an all-electric powertrain instead of a petrol engine.

The event will be streamed on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, with actor Idris Elba helping to introduce the latest addition to the Mustang family. Aiming to build up its order bank early, the company will accept bookings immediately after the broadcast (which would be around 10:30 am in Malaysia on Monday morning) at Ford.com.

Customers can pre-order the Mustang Mach-E by placing a refundable deposit (subject to terms and conditions). Ford says that timing will be critical, especially for a limited First Edition. Those who wish to pre-order a car can select their desired specification of the Mustang Mach-E, create a Ford account, select their preferred Ford dealer, and enter their credit/debit card details and address. The pre-ordering is available to customers in the USA and certain other regions.

1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 — *The ‘Mach’ name was used for fastback variants of the early Mustangs and were the biggest Mustangs ever .*

Little is known about the Mustang Mach-E but it is said to have crossover SUV genes as well. ‘Mach’, which refers to the speed of sound, was used for fastback variants in the earlier generations. Recently, at the SEMA show, Ford unveiled a fully electric Mustang Lithium with over 900 bhp and 1,356 Nm of torque. But that was an ‘edge-of-the-envelope’ project and the Mustang Mach-E won’t reach such output levels.

Mustang Lithium 2019 — *Mustang Lithium prototype displayed at the 2019 SEMA show recently.*

However, from one Ford microsite, we learnt that the car is claimed to have a range of 480 kms and scheduled maintenance costs are estimated to be 38% lower costs versus comparable vehicles. Using a 150kW DC fast charger, a 10-minute charge is claimed to be able to give a range of 75 kms.

Drop by PISTON.MY for more details when we have them on Sunday night.

Want to buy a traditional Mustang to keep as a collector’s item? Sime Darby Auto ConneXion has some units for sale. Visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information.

PETRONAS Holds Inaugural EV Fluids Symposium In Italy

PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI), the global lubricants manufacturing and marketing arm of PETRONAS, recently organized the inaugural Electric Vehicle (EV) Fluids Symposium at its Global Research and Technology (R&T) Centre in Turin, Italy.

“The EV Fluids Symposium is our next initiative to work together, deliberate possibilities
and set a shared agenda towards a cleaner future.”
PLI Managing Director and Group CEO, Giuseppe D’Arrigo.

Giuseppe D'Arrigo, PLI CEO — *Giuseppe D’Arrigo, PLI Managing Director & Group CEO*

Attended by more than 120 participants, the one-day event drew industry-leading experts from across the world to discuss and feature EV innovations that support a cleaner, energy-efficient and more sustainable e-mobility future. It provides a platform for these experts to share future EV technology trends, their market relevance and the role of fluids in the evolution of e-transmission and battery technologies.

In addition, the EV Fluids Symposium aimed to encourage discussions on managing the climate challenge by harnessing EV technological developments and operational discipline.

*Datò Sri Syed Zainal, Vice-President Downstream Marketing PETRONAS and Chairman of PLI, also spoke at the symposium.*

“At PLI, we’ve pledged to double our investments and dedicate 75% of our R&T expenditure in projects that contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions. PLI’s venture into the EV market that was announced earlier this year through PETRONAS iona range of e-fluids reinforces our commitment to the development and deployment of fluid technology. The EV Fluids Symposium is our next initiative to work together, deliberate possibilities and set a shared agenda towards a cleaner future,” said PLI Managing Director and Group CEO, Giuseppe D’Arrigo.

During the symposium, PLI also shared the findings of the industry’s first global study in EV Technology and Fluids focusing on Electric Drive Units and Batteries. The study, carried out in collaboration with FEV Consulting, concluded that innovation is crucial in advancing EV performance and durability, and continued improvement is needed to promote increased adoption rates of electric transportation by consumers.

Mercedes-Benz EQC — Although EVs may not have internal combustion engines requiring lubrication and protection, the electric powertrains still require various fluids to optimise performance and efficiency. For this reason, PETRONAS has developed a new generation of e-fluids for electric vehicles.

Commenting on the state of the industry, Electric Vehicle Outlook Founder & Event Host, Roger Atkins said: “Change is a challenge, and with the rapid integration of electric vehicles into the global mobility eco-system, that challenge is being met with unprecedented and active collaboration between manufacturers, academia, and the world’s smartest engineering teams. I am encouraged to see the focus and ambition here at the EV Fluids Symposium. The twin imperatives of climate change and air quality can only be tackled by truly maximizing the efficiency of our planet’s mobility machines, amongst others.”

At the PETRONAS Global R&T Centre, attendees had the opportunity to tour the product development laboratory and mechanical testing facilities to understand the experimental work that goes into developing PETRONAS e-fluids.

PETRONAS Global R&T Centre lab tour_2 — *Attendees touring the PETRONAS Global R&T Central lab.*

Since the introduction of PETRONAS Carbon Commitments in 2012, the company has decreased its monitored carbon footprint by 13% from 2017, which is a cumulative 12 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions reduction. PETRONAS is also collaborating with Daimler Automotive in green projects towards low-carbon fuel and vehicle emissions control.

More recently, the efforts of Malaysian national oil corporation towards a sustainable future included the establishment of PETRONAS Carbon Commitments Guidelines and a New Energy unit to enhance capabilities in the renewables sphere.

Click here to read other news and articles on PETRONAS products and activities.

Visit www.mymesra.com.my to know more about PETRONAS products and services in Malaysia.

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age

It’s been 3 years since Volkswagen announced its ID. family of all-electric models which will begin entering various markets and segments from 2020. As a group (including other brand such as Audi and Skoda), Volkswagen will forge ahead with the fundamental change of system in individual mobility and systematically aligning with electric drives.

The ID.3 will be the first model to go on sale from next year, assembled on the modular electric-car production platform known as ‘MEB’. At least 70 new electric models will be available by 2028 – instead of the 50 previously planned. As a result, the projected number of vehicles to be built on the Group’s electric platforms in the next decade will increase from 15 million to 22 million.

Production version in 2021
Besides the ID3, a compact model, other models have already been confirmed for production within the next 3 years. A fourth one has just been added and this will be based on the ID. SPACE VIZZION wagon concept revealed today. The study will be displayed at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show later this month but the production version will only be released in late 2021. Different versions are planned for North America, Europe and China.

Volkswagen describes the ID. SPACE VIZZION as ‘a wagon of tomorrow’ and we can presume it will be a stationwagon variant of the ID. VIZZION concept which was shown last year. But given the entirely ‘clean sheet’ that the engineers and designers can start from, the vehicle will likely be more functional that today’s stationwagons.

2018 VOLKSWAGEN ID. VIZZION CONCEPT — *The ID. VIZZION SEDAN concept shown in 2018*

A new ’crossover wagon’ segment?
Volkswagen says it will have a ‘completely independent and progressive character’ that combines the aerodynamic characteristics of a Gran Turismo with the spaciousness of an SUV. So we could see the birth of a segment called the ‘crossover wagon’ in future.

In fact, Klaus Bischoff, Head of Volkswagen Design, suggests that there will indeed be a new segment: “So far, with our ID. family, we have shown what is possible with electric vehicles in each known car category. With the ID. SPACE VIZZION, we create a new, fully electric segment.”

590-km range targeted
As for the design, the front and roof sections are particularly precise, with openings for the airstream for optimal aerodynamics. Powertrain details are not given but a range of 590 kms is targeted with the high-efficiency drive system.

Inside, the concept model defines a completely new paradigm of intuitive usability with its completely digitized cockpit. The materials are consistently made from sustainable raw materials, such as the new AppleSkin, an artificial leather with a proportion of residual matter from apple juice production.

Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about models available in Malaysia today

900 horsepower Mustang Lithium shows that musclecars can still exist in an electrified future

It used to be when the talk was of electric vehicles, the perception was that such vehicles would be slow and boring to drive. Apart from some exotic prototypes, most were small and with battery technology being what it was, they couldn’t go very fast or very far. But that’s been changing quickly as carmakers realize that their survival requires ‘electrification’ of their vehicles to meet tighter emission and fuel consumption regulations.

In order to persuade motorists to switch over, they need to develop electric vehicles (EVs) which can offer comparable performance and space as today’s cars with internal combustion engines. Hybrids have been a good transition but ultimately, the aim is to go fully electric when costs can be lowered enough.

Meanwhile, for those who worry that high performance as we know it today will be gone, Ford and Webasto have revealed the Mustang Lithium, an ultra-high-performance battery electric Mustang fastback prototype. With more than 1,356 Nm of torque and more than 900 bhp instantaneously available, this Mustang ups musclecar performance to a new level.

The Mustang Lithium is not only a one-off prototype to showcase electrification on the world’s best-selling sportscar but also a testbed for battery and thermal management technologies Webasto and Ford are creating for the growing e-mobility automotive segment.

“Ford has made no secret of the fact that we are electrifying our most popular nameplates,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Chief Product Development and Purchasing Officer. “This one-off Mustang prototype is a great opportunity for us, together with Webasto, to showcase to our customers what a new electrified powertrain can do for performance in a car they already know and love.”

The low and sleek Mustang Lithium is not merely a production Mustang with the powertrain substituted by electric motors. It has custom carbonfibre body components, Brembo 6-piston front brakes from the Shelby GT350R, Sankuer Composite Technologies side splitters and rear diffuser, plus a Webasto bonnet with see-through polycarbonate windows. It is also fitted with Ford Performance’s Track Handling Pack and strut tower brace.

A Phi-Power dual-core electric motor and dual power inverters – all powered by an 800-volt Webasto battery system with EVDrive Technology – can discharge a mega-watt of electrical energy. At 800 volts, that’s twice the voltage of most electric cars on the road today. This allows the system to be lighter, more powerful and generate less heat, and more electric force than most battery-electric systems on the road today.

Ford Mustang 5.0 — *The 5-litre V8 that is under the bonnet of Mustangs which the public can buy. Certainly looks more interesting that the ‘box’ which houses the 900+ bhp electric powerplant (top)!*

In a unique twist, the Mustang Lithium features a manual transmission and uses a dragstrip-proven Calimer-version of the Getrag MT82 6-speed transmission with billet internals to handle the huge amount of torque delivered along the driveline. To enable the driver to use all that torque optimally, there is a unique set of drive modes that apply a controlled amount of torque for different driving scenarios: Valet, Sport, Track and Beast.

Ford Performance half-shafts and a Super 8.8 Torsen differential help supply power to the road via lightweight Forgeline wheels wearing Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.

“Very similar to Ford’s push for vehicle electrification, this is an innovative way to further the technologies we’re developing to enable vehicle electrification while creating a vision of how cool the future of electric performance will be,” said Mark Denny, Webasto Customized Solutions North America President and CEO.

Webasto, which has a 100-year history, is among the top 100 suppliers to the automotive worldwide. While its core business areas are sunroofs and panorama roofs, convertible roofs and parking heaters, they have also diversified into electric heating systems, charging solutions and battery systems we are also addressing the growth market of electromobility.

Ford Mustang — The latest Mustang is available in Malaysia from Sime Darby Auto ConneXion with full warranty and aftersales support. This is the first generation of the model which has a factory-built righthand drive variant.

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Kia’s Futuron concept is inspired by UFOs and flying saucers! (w/VIDEO)

Given the pressure to reduce costs all the time, many carmakers now prefer to show off concept cars that are ‘near-production’, rather than futuristic showcars that cost a lot to build. But once in a while, we get some extreme designs intended to show what could come. Like the Futuron concept by Kia which the company says has some of its design elements inspired by UFOs and flying saucers!

The Futuron Concept is an all-wheel drive SUV coupe which proposes new designs for future electric vehicles, specifically a SUV coupe. With a design based around the notion of dynamic purity, the Futuron Concept merges elegant proportions with pure shapes and surfaces.

‘360-degree core’
The Kia Futuron Concept is built around a single, strong ‘360-degree’ design notable for its pure, smooth form devoid of ornament. The delicate diffusion of the body’s surfaces creates a series of taut, flowing shapes which twist, expand and contract around the body. The result is a sleek and streamlined shape, creating an aero-efficient profile.

The novel proportions of the car are immediately striking. Its low-profile SUV coupe body is sporty and modern, yet also elegant. At 4850 mm in length, 1550 mm tall and with a 3000 mm-long wheelbase, the Futuron’s elevated ground clearance is matched with a low, lean body to create a dynamic, confident posture.

The fully-electric powertrain makes such a fluid shape possible. A high-capacity battery is mounted low in the vehicle’s body, beneath the cabin floor, providing electrical energy to 4 powerful in-wheel electric motors. The elevated stance of the car is therefore matched with a low centre of gravity and an e-AWD system which delivers lightning-fast responses to driver inputs.

Sportscar on an SUV platform
Combined with comfortable, lean-back seats, the Futuron offers drivers a new type of interactive driving experience suitable for urban city environments. Various elements of the vehicle’s structure and design foster the important connection and interaction between car and driver.

The front fender flows backwards from the front of the bonnet before plunging into the cabin itself, establishing a connection between the driving seat and the road ahead. The concept’s roof is a diamond-shaped panoramic glasshouse which sits atop the 360-degree core, in the best traditions of UFO and flying saucer design.

While flooding the cabin with natural light, it also extends down the bonnet to give drivers an unparalleled view ahead. The glasshouse also incorporates a network of LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors capable of providing Level 4 autonomous driving features, enabling hands-off and eyes-off driving in most conditions.

Furthermore, the 360-degree theme is evident in the lighting that illuminates a sharp character line encircling the Futuron’s body. A playful and interactive new feature, this lighting responds to physical gestures and movements made outside the car, eliciting a close connection between car and driver before they even set foot in the cabin.

The new Kia ‘tiger face’
The front of the Futuron features a new reinterpretation of Kia’s ‘tiger nose’ grille, a signature for Kia design now for over a decade. While maintaining the basic principle of the design – a clear outline with tabs in the middle – Kia’s designers have expanded the boundaries, widening the shape across the front of the car to create a restrained, yet elegant ‘tiger face’.

With a wider ‘tiger face’ shape, the grille incorporates the Futuron’s headlamps, an innovative ‘Star Cloud’ design which gives the car a dazzling new night-time identity. The concept’s Star Cloud lighting not only highlights a new design form for the front of the car, but also embodies a new lighting concept for Kia, taking inspiration from nebulae in the night sky to create a geometric patchwork of matrix LED lighting. The Star Cloud is also incorporated into the rear of the car, displaying a distinct light signature to anyone following the Futuron.

Revealed for the first time in Shanghai, the Futuron also incorporates Chinese legend in the design and form of its new Star Cloud lighting. The Dragon Skin surface which covers the lighting area emulates the scaled armour that adorns Chinese dragons, both in mythology and modern-day cultural celebrations. The Star Cloud lighting incorporates a kinetic surface, enabling the car to alternate between daytime running lights and full-beam headlamps as the scales open and close.

Seamless interior
The Futuron’s seamless interior also reflects its autonomous driving nature, with surfaces flowing uninterrupted from the dashboard and through the door panels. The doors feature the same Star Cloud lighting and scaled Dragon Skin motif found on the outside of the car, creating a glittering interactive ambient lighting system. The ventilation system is also housed behind Dragon Skin scales, which open and close to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the cabin.

One of the most prominent features of the cabin is the ‘cockpit’ area surrounding the driver. The graphical user interface (GUI) of the cockpit flows out of the driver-side door and wraps around the steering wheel in a seamless arc. This merges the instrument cluster directly with the audio-visual display at the centre of the dashboard and is linked to the display integrated within the surface of the steering wheel itself.

The GUI is operated by artificial intelligence technologies, displaying useful information about the car various autonomous driving, powertrain and navigation features to create a unique user experience. The apex of the cockpit arc sees the GUI lunge forward towards the road, creating an interactive Star Cloud light display at the very front of the cabin.

Click here for other news and articles about Kia on PISTON.MY

Circontrol starts tapping into growing PHEV/EV market in Malaysia with aftermarket charging stations

With the introduction of more plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in Malaysia in coming years, along with a few all-electric models, it’s clear that there will be a market for recharging facilities. For now, such units are being offered by the companies selling the PHEVs or EVs, usually as part of a package with the purchase of the car.

No company will be allowed to have a monopoly of the sale of such recharging facilities otherwise the powerful Competition Commission will take action. This means that there are opportunities for companies specialising in such products to start offering them in Malaysia.

*Nissan LEAF – one of the EVs available in Malaysia*

One of them is Circontrol, a 22-year old Spanish company which has a range of chargers for private and commercial application. The company has deployed over 55,000 charging points across 60 countries since they’ve started and also work with brands like Nissan, Audi and Volkswagen on providing Original Equipment for their PHEVs and EVs.

For homes, Circontrol offers their Wallbox eHome and Wallbox eNext. Protected by an ABS plastic housing that’s UV-resistant for longevity. The unit re also IP54-protected, meaning they are partially protected from dust and sprays or splashes of water.

Some of their charging stations like the eVolve Smart and eNext Elite can be connected via ethernet port or 3G/GPRS to make management much easier. They have 7.4kw power supply and are priced at RM5,300 (including installation with additional charges if the location is outside the Klang Valley).

For those who need quick charging solutions, there are DC Chargers like the Raption 50 which can ‘refill’ battery packs within half an hour, it is claimed. These Fast Charging stations feature modular power technology and power scalability to keep them cost-effective and relevant to future advances in EV battery technology.

Designed to be installed in both public access environments (urban spaces, shopping centres, hotels, airports, R&R areas, etc) or company properties where vehicles need to be ready to continue their journey, the Raption 50 is designed to meet the most important market demands. With its state-of-the-art modular power technology allows a bigger uptime, increases availability and flexibility. Another key attribute is its sophisticated, slim and robust design that makes Raption 50 and ideal EV charger for any type of location, from stylish urban areas to industrial sites.

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MI-TECH concept shows how future Mitsubishi SUVs could be like

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has a long history of developing SUVs. In fact, together with Isuzu, it could be said that the company was the pioneer in the modern SUV which in the early 1980s was referred to as a ‘dual-purpose vehicle’. The vehicle was the Pajero and along with the Isuzu Trooper which appeared almost at the same time, consumer perception of such vehicles changed from being mere workhorses to alternatives to passenger cars.

With almost 4 decades of experience in producing SUVs, it would only be expected that MMC is now developing such vehicles which will run with electric motors, in line with industry trends for the coming decade. At the Tokyo Motor Show this year, it displayed the MI-TECH concept to give an idea of what a small-sized electrified SUV could be like.

Compact buggy-type vehicle
The design is that of a dynamic buggy-type vehicle with the familiar signature Dynamic Shield that is used for the front of the latest Triton. The new front design concept (which may be how the ‘face’ evolves) uses a satin-plated colour in the centre of the grille, with copper as a secondary colour to accentuate its expressiveness as an electrified vehicle.

T-shaped headlights are embedded in the front end to emphasize a distinguishing outward appearance. On the lower bumper, an aluminium skidplate is placed on both sides to protect the body while the centre section has an air intake.

On the sides, the highly raised over-fenders and large diameter tyres project a high level of mobility, SUV power, as well as the stability to thoroughly grip the terrain. The body radiates grandeur and sharpness with a design reminiscent of a machined metal ingot, while the use of side-steps on the carved sides balances utility with design.

The rear end design is dominated by a large and bold hexagon shape, again exuding the impression of being machined from solid metal ingot to emphasize robustness and strength. The T-shaped tail lamp shared the same design pattern used on the front end, as do the rear bumpers.

Functional cockpit with infographics
Inside, a horizontal instrument panel and clean, functional design make operating the MI-TECH easier. Keyboard-shaped switches are positioned on a centre console, and the front handgrip also functions as a hand pad to make the switches easy to operate. Functions are presented in a straightforward manner, easy to understand just by seeing them and with a reassuring feel when pressed.

The horizontal theme is further accentuated by copper lines added on the instrument panel and steering wheel. For extra peace of mind, the front windscreen presents all the relevant information in graphics such as vehicle behaviour, terrain recognition and optimal route guidance.

PHEV powertrain of the future
The power generator in the new PHEV drivetrain is a lightweight, compact gas turbine engine-generator in place of the traditional petrol engine. The gas turbine engine-generator has a powerful output for its size and weight with the added benefit of flexibility to run on a variety of fuels such as diesel, kerosene and alcohol which can be selected depending on the regions.

Building on its PHEV powertrain experience, MMC has evolved its Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to operate with a Quad Motor 4WD System with front and rear Dual-Motor Active Yaw Control (AYC) units. Making the brake calipers electric has also allows for high response, high accuracy control of drive and braking force of the 4 wheels while delivering a drastic improvement in turning and traction performance.

When driving off-road and 2 of the wheels lose traction, the ability to transmit the optimal driving force to all 4 wheels makes it possible to transmit force to the 2 wheels still on the ground and keep driving. It is possible to execute 180-degree spins by counter-rotating the left and right wheels.

The MI-TECH also comes equipped with a Human Machine Interface (HMI) which displays varying information detected through sensing technology including advanced optical sensors on an augmented reality (AR) windscreen. With vehicle, road, and surrounding traffic conditions shown on the AR glass, the driver can make accurate decisions even in poor visibility without taking his eyes away from the view ahead.

Visit www.mitsubishi=motors.com.my to know more about the SUV models you can buy in Malaysia today.

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Hyundai to start pilot autonomous vehicle sharing service in California from next month

Electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous self-driving cars are going to be part of our lives in future. In Malaysia, perhaps it will take a while for them to become significant numbers although Edaran Tan Chong Motor is taking the initiative to start selling EVs such as the Nissan LEAF now. Autonomous cars will take a lot longer as our conditions present challenges, particularly in the area of safety.

In the more developed countries, the infrastructure is already well developed to enable autonomous cars to function safely. They need to have good roads and clear signage and not have motorcyclists weaving in and out of traffic. We have a long way to go in these matters…

California is one such place and the west coast state of America has traditionally been an ‘early adopter’ for the auto industry. For this reason, Hyundai Motor, in collaboration with Pony.ai and Via, will start running a fleet of self-driving Hyundai KONA all-electric SUVs around the community of Irvine.

Free shared, on-demand service
Known as BotRide, the free shared, on-demand, autonomous vehicle service will operate on public roads from November 4 this year. Using the BotRide app (iOS and Android), the public can hail an autonomous KONA directly from their smartphone. Via’s advanced algorithms enable multiple passengers to share the same vehicle. The app directs passengers to nearby stops to await pick-up and drop-off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.

“The pilot service introduces BotRide to several hundred Irvine residents, including college students. The goal is to study consumer behaviour in an autonomous ride-sharing environment,” said Christopher Chang, Head of Business Development, Strategy and Technology division, Hyundai Motor Company. “We are going to learn about ecosystems, where the vehicles travel and optimize the customer experience. BotRide, is another example of Hyundai’s ongoing efforts to actively build expertise in mobility technology as well as the company’s commitment to providing more user-friendly mobility services to customers.”

Navigating complex road scenarios
Integrated Hyundai and Pony.ai technologies enable the BotRide vehicles to navigate complex road scenarios safely. These vehicles are equipped with Pony.ai’s latest sensor hardware and proprietary software to identify the precise position of surrounding vehicles, handle pedestrian traffic in urban areas, accurately monitor its surroundings, predict the behaviour of other road-users, and precisely plan actions accordingly. In addition to self-driving capabilities, BotRide is validating its user experience in preparation for a fully driverless future.

BotRide launches with multiple popular destinations where a passenger may hail a ride using the BotRide app. The service area covers several residential, commercial, and institutional points of interest. BotRide’s technology prioritizes passenger-to-system interactions such as automated onboard passenger verification, giving riders the chance to familiarize themselves with technologies expected to become commonplace in an autonomous mobility future.

“Through BotRide, Hyundai is leveraging cutting-edge autonomous vehicle and mobility technologies to introduce a new, safe, and convenient form of transportation to the public,” said Daniel Han, Manager, Advanced Product Strategy, Hyundai Motor America. “The BotRide pilot service represents an important step in the deployment and eventual commercialization of a growing new mobility business. In addition to the technology partners powering BotRide, the broader city and community ecosystem have also played an important role in making BotRide possible.”

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