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.
Baru-baru ini, satu kejadian tragik berlaku di mana seorang wanita ditemui meninggal dunia di dalam sebuah kereta yang diparkir di Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun. Menurut Timbalan Ketua Polis Daerah Ipoh, Asisten Komisioner Yahaya Hassan, wanita tersebut, yang menjaga bapanya yang sedang dirawat di hospital, sedang berehat di tempat duduk belakang dengan tingkap ditutup.
Kes ini telah digolongkan sebagai kematian tiba-tiba menunggu pemeriksaan post-mortem. Seorang pengawal keselamatan di hospital melihat wanita itu di dalam kereta dan menyedari bahawa dia mungkin telah meninggal dunia, yang menyebabkan panggilan kepada pihak berkuasa.
Kejadian malang ini menarik perhatian kepada topik tidur dalam kereta dan pertimbangan keselamatannya yang berkaitan. Adakah selamat untuk tidur dalam kereta dengan tingkap ditutup?
It’s a bittersweet moment for Alfa Romeo enthusiasts in North America as the Italian automaker announces the end of sales for its high-performance Quadrifoglio models, scheduled to cease production in June of this year.
Larry Dominique, Alfa Romeo’s senior vice president for North America, shared this news on LinkedIn, advising interested buyers to place their orders soon to acquire a Giulia or Stelvio Quadrifoglio before they’re no longer available in their current form.
Dominique emphasised that this isn’t the end of the story for Alfa Romeo, hinting at the brand’s transition to an electrified future. The final opportunity to order a 2024 Giulia or Stelvio Quadrifoglio will close at the end of April 2024, with the last internal-combustion-powered Quadrifoglio models for the U.S. and Canada exiting the Cassino plant in June 2024.
BMW telah melancarkan versi terbaru 5 Series Touring, membawa masuk era baharu pemanduan yang menyeronokkan, kemewahan dan penjagaan alam sekitar. Generasi keenam kereta ini adalah langkah besar ke depan, dengan ciri-ciri digital moden, kemampuan memandu automatik yang canggih, dan komitmen yang kuat untuk menjadi eco-friendly.
Ia termasuk kemunculan BMW i5 Touring sepenuhnya elektrik, bertujuan untuk mendefinisikan semula segmen premium kelas atas dengan reka bentuk yang anggun, prestasi yang hebat, dan keselesaan yang luas.
BMW i5 Touring adalah model mewah sepenuhnya elektrik pertama dalam bidang persaingannya. Ia datang dalam dua versi. BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring mempunyai dua unit pemandu elektrik pada axle depan dan belakang, memberikannya penggerak semua roda dengan sehingga 601hp. Dengan ciri-ciri khas diaktifkan, ia boleh mencapai tork sehingga 820Nm. Model teratas ini boleh mencapai 0 hingga 100km/jam dalam masa 3.9 saat dan mempunyai kelajuan tertinggi 230km/jam.
Motor elektrik BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring terletak di axle belakang dan menghasilkan sehingga 340hp dan 430Nm tork. Ia boleh mencapai 0 hingga 100km/jam dalam masa 6.1 saat.
Kedua-dua model mempunyai bateri dengan kapasiti 81.2 kWh yang disimpan di bawah kereta. Bersama dengan motor elektrik yang cekap, pemulihan tenaga yang adaptif, dan teknologi pam haba untuk pemanasan dan penyejukan dalam, bateri membantu i5 Touring mempunyai jangkaan pemanduan yang panjang. Menurut ujian, BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring boleh pergi dari 445 hingga 506km, manakala BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring boleh pergi dari 483 hingga 560km dengan caj penuh.
Anda boleh mengisi bateri dengan kuasa rumah biasa atau pengecaj yang lebih pantas. BMW i5 Touring juga menyokong sistem cas yang canggih untuk digunakan di rumah dan stesen caj awam. Ia juga boleh menyesuaikan suhu bateri untuk meningkatkan kecekapan pengecasan. BMW i5 Touring juga menyokong ciri pengecasan yang mudah dan segera.
BMW 5 Series Touring baru dapat dibuat dengan pelbagai jenis enjin, termasuk enjin petrol dan diesel yang cekap, sistem hibrid plug-in, dan sepenuhnya elektrik, semuanya dibuat di jalur pemasangan yang sama. Ini menunjukkan komitmen BMW untuk menawarkan cara yang berbeza untuk menghidupkan kenderaan sambil menjaga kecekapan pengeluaran.
BMW 5 Series Touring baru mempunyai enjin diesel dengan teknologi hibrid ringan dan transmisi automatik 8-kelajuan. Pada pelancaran, model BMW 520d Touring mempunyai enjin empat-silinder dengan 197hp dan 400Nm tork. Kemudian, akan ada pilihan enjin diesel enam-silinder.
Secara luaran, ia mempamerkan perkadaran memanjang secara dinamik, tafsiran moden lampu hadapan berkembar ikonik jenama itu, dan gril BMW tersendiri yang menonjol ke hadapan. Jarak rodanya yang memanjang dan grafik tingkap yang anggun menyumbang kepada penampilannya yang sporty namun canggih.
Di dalam kabin, kokpit berpusat di sekitar Paparan Melengkung BMW, menawarkan rangkaian paparan digital sepenuhnya untuk interaksi pengguna yang dipertingkatkan. Terutamanya, bahagian dalamannya menampilkan bahan vegan sebagai standard, dengan peningkatan pilihan termasuk upholsteri kulit BMW Individual Merino dan bumbung kaca panoramik.
BMW 5 Series Touring juga dilengkapi dengan sistem bantuan pemanduan yang canggih untuk keselamatan dan kemudahan. Ciri infotainment dan ketersambungan juga memainkan peranan penting, dengan paparan dan sistem pengendalian BMW iDrive menawarkan antara muka yang direka bentuk semula dan rangkaian perkhidmatan digital termasuk penstriman video dan permainan dalam kereta.
Secara keseluruhannya, BMW 5 Series Touring baru meningkatkan tahap dalam kelasnya dengan gabungannya prestasi, kemewahan, dan kebolehan ramah alam. Dengan reka bentuk moden, teknologi canggih, dan pelbagai pilihan enjin, ia mewakili masa depan kereta yang hebat.
BMW has taken the wraps off its latest iteration of the esteemed 5 Series Touring, ushering in a new era of driving pleasure, luxury, and environmental consciousness. The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring represents a significant leap forward, boasting cutting-edge digital innovations, advanced automated driving features, and a heightened commitment to sustainability, highlighted by the debut of the all-electric BMW i5 Touring. This new model aims to redefine the premium upper mid-range segment with its refined design, exceptional performance, and spacious comfort.
The BMW i5 Touring is the first all-electric premium model in its competitive field. It will be available in two versions from the outset. In the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles together form an electric all-wheel drive with up to 601hp. With M Launch Control or M Sport Boost activated, the system torque is increased to 820Nm. The top model accelerates from a standstill to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 230km/h.
The electric motor of the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring is located on the rear axle and generates a maximum output of 340hp and a maximum torque of up to 430Nm with Sport Boost or Launch Control function. The BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring accelerates from zero to 100km/h in 6.1 seconds.
In both models, the high-voltage battery located in the underbody provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. In addition to the efficient electric motors, adaptive recuperation and heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, the drive and high-voltage battery contribute to the long-distance capability of the i5 Touring. The range determined in the WLTP test procedure is 445 to 506km for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring and 483 to 560km for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring.
The battery can be charged with alternating current with an output of up to 11kW as standard and up to 22kW as an option. The high-voltage battery can be charged with direct current with a power of up to 205kW. Anticipatory thermal management for the high-voltage battery optimises efficiency when using fast-charging stations. Connected Home Charging for the all-electric and plug-in hybrid models creates the conditions for solar and load-optimised as well as cost-optimised charging. The BMW i5 Touring is also suitable for the Plug & Charge Multi Contract function.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring introduces a flexible drive architecture that enables the production of highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, plug-in hybrid systems, and all-electric drive systems on a single production line. This approach underscores BMW’s dedication to offering diverse propulsion options while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
All diesel engines available for the new BMW 5 Series Touring are combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission. The four-cylinder engine of the BMW 520d Touring models available at market launch and BMW 520d xDrive Touring generates a maximum output of 197hp and a maximum torque of 400Nm. The drive portfolio will be supplemented by an in-line six-cylinder diesel engine in summer 2024. At the same time, two model variants with the latest generation of plug-in hybrid drive will follow.
Externally, it showcases dynamically elongated proportions, a modern interpretation of the brand’s iconic twin headlights, and a distinctive BMW grille that projects forward. Its elongated wheelbase and sleek window graphics contribute to its sporty yet sophisticated appearance.
Inside the cabin, the cockpit is centred around the BMW Curved Display, offering a fully digital display network for enhanced user interaction. Notably, the interior features vegan materials as standard, with optional upgrades including BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof.
In terms of functionality and comfort, the new BMW 5 Series Touring offers improved space and acoustic comfort, making it ideal for both daily use and extended journeys. The adaptable interior includes a spacious luggage compartment that can be expanded to accommodate larger cargo, catering to the diverse needs of drivers and passengers.
Furthermore, the new BMW 5 Series Touring comes equipped with advanced systems for semi-automated driving and parking, enhancing safety and convenience for drivers. Infotainment and connectivity features are also at the forefront, with the BMW iDrive display and operating system offering redesigned interfaces and a range of digital services including streaming video and in-car gaming.
Overall, the new BMW 5 Series Touring sets a new standard in the premium upper mid-range segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability. With its innovative design, advanced technology, and diverse propulsion options, it represents the future of automotive excellence.
Mini, renowned for its iconic design and dynamic driving experience, unveils the latest iteration of its legendary model, the Mini Cooper. Combining classic Mini aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, the new Mini Cooper promises to deliver a driving experience that is both timeless and innovative.
Performance and Designation
Mini adopts a new performance designation system, using the letters C and S to differentiate between standard and performance-enhanced models, respectively. The Mini Cooper lineup offers a choice of efficient petrol engines, blending power and efficiency while maintaining the brand’s signature go-kart handling.
It is equipped with a potent four-cylinder engine, delivering 204hp for exhilarating performance. Meanwhile, the Mini Cooper C features a three-cylinder engine with 156hp, providing a perfect balance of power and efficiency. Both variants offer impressive acceleration and agility, ensuring a thrilling driving experience on any road.
Interior Design and Technology
Inside, it boasts a minimalist design with modern materials and advanced technology. The cockpit features the latest Mini Operating System 9, Mini Experience Modes, and a range of digital functions to enhance the overall driving experience. With a spacious layout and intuitive controls, the interior reflects Mini’s commitment to both style and functionality.
Exterior Design and Safety Features
Externally, the Mini Cooper combines contemporary design elements with timeless Mini styling cues. Highlights include the new octagonal grille, LED daytime running lights, and advanced safety features such as radar sensors and ultrasonic sensors for enhanced driving safety. The result is a sleek and stylish exterior that captures the essence of Mini’s design philosophy.
Technology and Personalisation
In terms of technology, the Mini Cooper offers innovative features such as Mini Experience Modes and Mini Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA), allowing for a personalised driving experience. Additionally, the Mini Digital Key Plus function transforms smartphones into car keys, providing convenient access and customisation options. With four trim variants available, customers can personalise their Mini Cooper to suit their individual tastes and preferences.
With its blend of tradition and innovation, the new Mini Cooper sets a new standard for compact cars, offering a driving experience that is both timeless and modern. From its powerful performance to its advanced technology and iconic design, the Mini Cooper embodies the spirit of Mini while embracing the future of motoring.
Stellantis telah mendedahkan platform STLA Large yang akan digunakan untuk pelbagai model midsize dan besar. Platform ini, sebahagian daripada senibina fleksibel Stellantis untuk kereta elektrik dan enjin pembakaran dalam, menjanjikan penyesuaian yang mengagumkan, fleksibiliti pemanduan kuasa, dan keupayaan prestasi.
Platform STLA Large direka untuk kereta segmen D dan E, crossover dan SUV, meliputi kenderaan midsize hingga besar.. Dengan panjang antara 4765mm hingga 5125mm dan lebar dari 1897mm hingga 2029mm, sedikit lebih besar daripada Peugeot 5008, platform ini menawarkan penyesuaian yang besar dalam overhang, jarak roda, penempatan suspensi, dan susunan pemanduan kuasa.
Ciri-ciri utama platform STLA Large termasuk:
Menyokong susunan penggerak roda hadapan, roda belakang, dan semua roda dengan pilihan susunan motor tunggal dan dua motor. Enjin pembakaran dalam juga boleh didapati, sama ada secara bersendirian atau sebagai hibrid. Penempatan enjin boleh dilakukan secara membujur atau melintang.
Pilihan untuk pak bateri dengan kapasiti antara 85 hingga 118 kWh, dengan reka bentuk 400 dan 800 volt. Stellantis mendakwa kereta gaya sedan pada platform ini boleh mencapai jarak sehingga 804km.
Direka untuk dengan mudah menampung teknologi penyimpanan tenaga masa depan, memberikan petunjuk kepada kemungkinan kemajuan dalam kimia bateri dan bateri solid-state.
Beberapa model di platform ini dijangka mencapai masa 0-100km/j dalam julat 2 saat. Ciri-ciri seperti differential slip terhad dan putuskan roda menyumbang kepada penyampaian kuasa yang lebih baik dan penurunan geseran mekanikal.
Platform ini sejajar dengan strategi elektrifikasi Stellantis, menyokong model seperti konsep Dodge Charger Daytona dan Jeep Wagoneer S. Konsep Charger menunjukkan pelbagai pemandu kuasa elektrik dengan keluaran antara 456hp hingga 670hp, dan Wagoneer S dijangka menawarkan varian elektrik yang kuat dengan kira-kira 600hp.
Pelancaran platform STLA Large bersamaan dengan pengenalan model-model Dodge dan Jeep baru pada tahun 2024. Stellantis merancang untuk meluaskan penggunaan platform ini kepada Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, dan Maserati, dengan keseluruhan lapan model di seluruh barisan Stellantis dijadualkan untuk dilancarkan sehingga 2026.
In a move that signals Stellantis’ commitment to an electrified future, the automotive giant has revealed the STLA Large platform, set to underpin a range of midsize and large models. This platform, part of Stellantis’ flexible architectures for electric and internal combustion cars, promises impressive adjustability, powertrain flexibility, and performance capabilities.
The STLA Large platform is designed for D- and E-segment cars, crossovers, and SUVs, covering midsize to large vehicles. With lengths ranging from 4765mm to 5125mm and width from 1897mm to 2029mm, slightly bigger than a Peugeot 5008, the platform offers significant adjustability in overhangs, wheelbase, suspension placement, and powertrain arrangement.
Key features of the STLA Large platform include:
Powertrain Flexibility: Supports front-, rear-, and all-wheel-drive layouts with options for single- and dual-motor setups. Internal combustion engines are also available, either alone or as hybrids. Longitudinal or transverse engine placements are accommodated.
Battery Packs: Options for battery packs with capacities between 85 and 118 kWh, available in 400- and 800-volt designs. Stellantis claims sedan-style vehicles on this platform could achieve a range of up to 804km.
Future-Ready: Designed to easily accommodate future energy storage technologies, hinting at potential advancements in battery chemistries and solid-state batteries.
Impressive Performance: Some models on the platform are expected to achieve 0-100km/h times in the 2-second range. Features like limited-slip differentials and wheel-end disconnects contribute to enhanced power delivery and reduced mechanical drag.
This platform aligns with Stellantis’ electrification strategy, supporting models like the concept Dodge Charger Daytona Banshee and Jeep Wagoneer S. The Charger concept showcased a wide range of electric powertrains with outputs ranging from 456hp to 670hp, and the Wagoneer S is expected to offer a powerful electric variant with around 600hp.
The launch of the STLA Large platform coincides with the introduction of new Dodge and Jeep models in 2024. Stellantis plans to extend the use of this platform to Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, and Maserati, with a total of eight models across the Stellantis lineup scheduled to launch through 2026. The platform’s adaptability, performance capabilities, and focus on electrification position it as a pivotal element in Stellantis’ transition toward sustainable and high-performance mobility.
In a bold stance against the prevailing shift towards electric vehicles, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division expresses unwavering confidence in the future of hydrogen combustion engines. Masahito Watanabe, Head of Gazoo Racing, asserts that internal combustion engines, particularly those powered by hydrogen, can coexist with the growing trend of electrification.
Watanabe highlighted that the internal combustion engine, specifically through hydrogen combustion, still holds untapped potential in the pursuit of zero-emission vehicles. He emphasised the commitment to exploring diverse technologies rather than succumbing to complete electrification. However, he acknowledged a significant obstacle: the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles, hindering enthusiasts who seek easy access to filling stations.
Berita ini mungkin sukar diterima, terutamanya bagi pemilik kenderaan plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), tetapi mengikut Consumer Reports (CR), hibrid biasa adalah lebih boleh dipercayai daripada PHEV. CR mengumpul maklumat daripada ahli-ahli mereka setiap tahun mengenai masalah yang mereka hadapi dengan kenderaan mereka dalam tempoh 12 bulan yang lepas.
Tahun ini, mereka mengumpul data dari lebih daripada 330,000 kenderaan, merangkumi model tahun 2000 hingga 2023, termasuk beberapa model awal 2024. Walau bagaimanapun, adalah penting untuk diingatkan bahawa kerana laporan ini berasal dari Amerika Syarikat, beberapa model kereta mungkin tidak relevan untuk pasaran Malaysia.
Fokus utama di sini adalah perbandingan dengan kenderaan internal combustion engine (ICE) tradisional. Model elektrik, terutamanya hibrid, telah menunjukkan prestasi yang lebih baik berbanding dengan kenderaan ICE tradisional. Walau bagaimanapun, laporan tersebut menunjukkan bahawa PHEV mempunyai prestasi yang bercampur, dengan kebolehpercayaan yang berbeza-beza di kalangan model-model yang berlainan.
Penilaian melibatkan 20 kawasan masalah yang berpotensi berbeza di kalangan pelbagai jenis kenderaan, merangkumi segala-galanya dari masalah kecil seperti brek bising hingga kepada kebimbangan yang lebih besar seperti enjin, transmisi, bateri kenderaan elektrik (EV), dan masalah cas EV yang sudah tamat tempoh waranti.
