With the government helping to promote the switch to electric vehicles (EVs) by exempting them from as well as providing some other incentives, the car companies are also doing their part by participating in the development of the charging network nationwide. After all, if they want people to buy their EVs and enjoy using them, then enabling owners to travel far is necessary as part of ‘aftersales’
BMW Group Malaysia, having been among the early pioneers in electric mobility in Malaysia, is one of the companies that has been helping to grow the number of charging stations. Besides having such facilities at its dealerships, it has now introduced BMW Charging to gives its EV customers peace of mind when they wish to go on long journeys.
Starting off as just a little car with simple engineering for ease of construction and low cost, the Mini has evolved over 60 years into a premium product that is design-based and technologically innovative. It has also grown substantially in size but the designers of the modern MINI (capital letters differentiate the original and the modern cars) have stuck to many of the original ideas which Alec Issigonis applied.
Soon, a new generation will be born and as an initial preview of its design, MINI is presenting the Concept Aceman. In this next generation, the MINI Cooper in the iconic 3-door bodystyle, which has been reinterpreted time and again over its entire history, will be joined by a crossover model for the first time.
Over 60 years, the Mini has evolved into a premium and larger model while retaining its original character, even as it moves into an electric future.
“The MINI Concept Aceman provides an initial glimpse of a completely new vehicle, bridging the space between the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman in the model family’s future,” said Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI Brand. “This concept car reflects how MINI is reinventing itself for its all-electric future and what the brand stands for: an electrified go-kart feel, an immersive digital experience and a strong focus on a minimal environmental footprint.”
A new MINI design era
“The design language of the MINI Concept Aceman heralds the beginning of a new design era for MINI,” explained Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. “Design features typical of the MINI brand have always been unmistakable. We are returning to these now, but at the same time consistently combining them innovative technology. With this approach we are redeveloping the MINI design icons, with all their analogue strengths, for the digital future.”
Along with the clear and reduced exterior and interior design, the holistic user experience of light, movement, interaction and sound also combine to define this style. Surfaces constructed from knitted recycled textile with fresh colour contrasts combine with seamless digital controls with a new OLED display as the central interface.
The all-electric models of the next generation are also given an independent sound design for the first time, providing emotionally compelling drive sounds and an authentic background for the new Experience Modes.
Creative use of space reinterpreted
Everything about the appearance of MINI Concept Aceman expresses agility and a self-confident presence. This merges distinctive features of the brand’s two most successful models, the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman, to create a modern interpretation of a crossover model.
“The purely electric vehicle concept means the design can again be geared more towards MINI’s traditional basic values, in terms of the principle of using space creatively,” said Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design. “This creates models that take up little space on the road while offering even more comfort, more versatility and more emotion on the inside than ever before.”
A functional two-box design with short overhangs creates the maximum of space for occupants and luggage on a minimal surface area. Its exterior dimensions are 4.05 metres in length, a width of 1.99 metres and a height of 1.59 metres. The Concept Aceman has 4 doors and a large boot lid with interior seating for 5. The classic 3-way division of body, all-round window graphics and roof is reinterpreted. A flush transition between the vehicle body and glass surfaces makes the most of the aerodynamic properties.
The clear and reduced design completely dispenses with the chrome trim around the edges that was common in earlier model generations. Wide surrounds on the lower edge of the body, strongly contoured wheel arches, large wheels, a striking roof rack, and front and rear valance panels styled as an underride protection emphasise the solid all-round characteristics of a crossover model.
The upright front of the Concept Aceman strikingly announces its presence. The brand’s iconic design features have been reinterpreted to reflect its crossover characteristics and purely electric drive. The radiator grille element at the centre of the vehicle front is surrounded by clear surfaces, the traditionally hexagonal outline having been further refined into an octagonal contour.
The new design is accentuated by an illuminated surround. The LED contour lighting in a shade of light green provides a striking light signature both in daytime running lights and in night design. The central grille element is completely closed with matrix LED units are integrated in its upper section to create impressive lighting effects. The contour of the lights follows through to the surfaces of the outer areas of the bonnet.
Clear design and definition
A diagonal contour below the A-pillars will spark memories of the striking weld seam of the classic MINI, for those who are familiar with it. Surface modelling and lines create a tapered effect between the front and rear wheel arches that give a dynamic expression to the side view of the Concept Aceman. This intensively accentuates the powerful profile of the rear wheel arches.
These are further defined by distinctive contour lines, the first of their kind on a MINI. Contour lines provide a lively play of light and shadow in the side view; a dynamic upward movement in the front area, an elongated progression and a steep downward swing. A matt green side skirt, more pronounced in the area of the doors, gives the vehicle an athletic appearance.
A typical MINI twist
A typical MINI twist is the oblong hole outline which is a recurring element with many instances, including the door openers – integrated flush with the surface for the first time in a MINI – as well as the exterior mirror caps and the MINI logo in the lower door section.
The design also features in numerous details in the interior. The equally distinctive Union Jack design, acknowledging the brand’s British roots, is seen in both the rear light graphic and on the robust roof rack. The triangular outline in the centre of each rim gives the spokes visual depth and dynamism, a special graphic feature which is generally only noticed on second glance.
In the rear perspective, there us the cascading contour that MINI is known for, gradually broadening towards the road. The dark roof spoiler and the glass surface of the rear window further reinforce this impression by visually receding into the background.
The distinctive vertical MINI rear lights provide a captivating contrast to the clear, horizontal surfaces. They also feature matrix LED units, allowing for different lighting scenarios depending on the situation.
MINImalism redefined
The Concept Aceman interior is also dominated by a reduced design with clear contours and carefully executed details. It combines innovative technology with newly interpreted, yet typical MINI design features. The cockpit is consistently reduced to the bare essentials, just as the designer of the classic MINI had in mind in 1959. Alec Issigonis designed an interior which, in addition to the seats, steering wheel and gear lever, needed nothing more than a central round instrument and toggle switch bar.
Wide-open and gently curved surfaces in the area of the door panels and the dashboard give a generous feeling of space. The large panoramic glass roof provides an ambience flooded in light. Its glass surface is patterned by the transverse and diagonal struts of the roof rack, whose structure picks up on the Union Jack flag motif, a reminded of the brand’s origins when looking upwards from within.
The MINI cockpit
The dashboard is a flat design element styled like a sound bar that extends across the entire width of the interior in front of the driver’s and front passenger’s seats. Its soft knitted textile surfaces create a modern and homey atmosphere. The dashboard is connected via a support structure which, like the roof rack, displays the Union Jack pattern.
The centre interface combines all the functions of the instrument cluster and the on-board monitor as a round OLED display. True to its traditions, a toggle switch bar is set below the large screen. There are both touch controls using state-of-the-art digitalisation and analogue physical switches, depending on the function.
The redesigned toggle switches operate the parking brake, select gears, activate and deactivate the drive, select Experience Modes and adjust the audio system volume. Each toggle is individually designed as a rotary knob or toggle switch for the most intuitive operation.
The distinctive MINI display and operating experience scales new heights with its reinterpretation of the familiar central interface. MINI is the world’s first car manufacturer to present a circular OLED display that takes up the entire surface of the central interface. OLED technology gives the display a particularly high-quality appearance and can display strong contrasts and deep blacks.
The user interface also features a completely new graphic display, a modern layout and attractively designed widgets. The display and control system in the production model will be based on the latest generation of the MINI Operating System which, for the first time, is built on an Android Open-Source Project software stack. This allows for an unprecedented and particularly comprehensive expansion of digital features in the vehicle.
Experience Modes
Innovative Experience Modes generate new possibilities to individualise and personalise the driving experience in the interior. They combine specific displays and colour worlds, which are depicted on the central interface panel and through interior projection, and a coordinated sound stage.
Chrome elements are completely dispensed with – not only in the exterior but also inside. Instead, the dashboard support structure creates its own high-quality, individual highlight in the interior, with its iridescent coating matching the roof support for example.
The steering wheel, like the seats, door panels and all other interior surfaces, is leather-free. The steering wheel rim is laminated with dark green velvet velour, giving a particularly pleasant feel. The multifunction buttons are integrated under backlit textile surfaces and the ‘Aceman’ lettering and a robust strap form the 6 o’clock spoke of the steering wheel.
The Concept Aceman will make its first public appearance Gamescom 2022, the world’s largest gaming event to be held in Cologne, Germany next month.
In the 1950s, when Sir Alec Issigonis began to think of a small city car that would become the legendary Mini, styling was probably of a low priority compared to the design. How it looked would largely follow what was required of it – form follows function. And he certainly followed that design principle which could be traced back to the 19th century.
Form follows function
Quite simply, he wanted to create a small car which had the largest possible interior on the smallest possible footprint. Applying ‘form follows function’ strictly to automotive construction, he came up with a car that would be revolutionary. The spatial concept of the Mini was unique, and transversely mounting its engine made significant waves in the motoring industry at the time.
The brilliant design of the original Mini which strictly adhered to the ‘form follows function’ principle. Inset shows the actual sketch that its designer, Sir Alec Issigonis, drew on a napkin in 1956.
When the BMW Group continued the Mini story, it fully respected not just the history but also the design language that would provide guidance for the 21st century version. The original design philosophy was revised in keeping with the times, while simultaneously preserving the essential Mini character. While form continues to follow function, innovative technical solutions allow this principle to be applied to a greater degree.
Evolution continuation
The modern MINI appeared in 2001 and has undergone evolutionary continuation of the legendary formal language that defined the original Mini. The systematic expansion of the model family also show how new life has been introduced to the brand’s fundamental values and, building on this, to open up authentic and intriguing perspectives for the future of the brand.
The modern MINI and the original classic Mini in 2007.
Digital and electric influences
Now the MINI team is again looking ahead at the next generation of models and this time, there are strong electric and digital influences. The MINI models of the future will bring together a modern and purist exterior and an interior design that focuses on the essentials, just as it always has.
The new design language also exploits the opportunity of electrifying the powertrain to generate the driving pleasure you expect from MINI entirely without local emissions. “Purely electrically powered models from MINI give us a unique opportunity to rethink our design. At the same time, we retain the attention to detail, sense of tradition and passion for innovation that MINI is renowned for,” said Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design.
The architecture for the new MINI model generation has been developed for purely electric mobility from the outset. This differs from previous generations where the electrified version used a platform that was developed to also be able to take combustion engines. As such, every centimetre of the available installation space is used even more efficiently. This means that it will be possible to continue to offer the ideal combination of a small footprint and available interior space in the future.
Concept model to be shown in July
The core of the brand will also be embedded in the future model generation of the MINI 3-door – purely electric and consistently geared towards urban driving pleasure. The successor to the current Countryman will also have purely electric drive and a concept model (shown camouflaged in this pictures) of this will be shown at the end of July.
“The MINI Design DNA will clearly come through in every model of this new generation, leaving its brand affiliation in no doubt whatsoever,” declared Heilmer. “At the same time, the MINI design team has successfully created strong product features with individual accents that more than ever before underscore a sense of independence.”
‘Charismatic Simplicity’
Creation of independent vehicle personalities is one of the central features of the new design language. ‘Charismatic Simplicity’ gives each member of the future MINI model family its own individual charisma that is unmistakably based on the brand’s core, reinterpreting it confidently and in its own way. The authentic reference to the essential values of MINI is expressed in a very modern design language featuring clearly and cleanly modelled surfaces.
Charismatic Simplicity reduces the number of components and concentrates on essential elements, helping the design of future MINI models achieve an emotional, intuitively perceptible identity. “We combine the core of the MINI DNA with innovative, aesthetic and technological inspiration in our new design language,” explained Heilmer. “For example, innovative LED technology gives the typical Union Jack design of the MINI combination rear lamps a variety of forms, creating an individual light signature for each model.”
Combining tradition and progress
The combination of tradition and progress will be evident in the interiors of future models. The key to this is both in advanced digitalisation in operation and connectivity, and in a clearly designed interior with intuitive functionality.
In the cockpit of future models, ‘reduction’ does not mean having to do without. For example, the OLED technology for the fully digital display and control unit (shown in the MINI Vision Urbanaut concept) means significantly more functions can be combined in a single control unit. This is presented in the archetypal circular central instrument in the middle of the dashboard.
MINI is the world’s first car manufacturer to offer a touch display with a fully usable round surface. The innovative display technology paves the way for a new user interface design. At the same time, the design retains analogue control units such as the toggle switches below the central interface. These embody the attention to detail and distinctive design features that transform intuitive functionality into an emotional experience.
“The future of MINI design is based on the courage and determination to shape change and stamp a distinctive and inimitable profile on the brand,” said Heilmer. This also includes a range of materials with a focus on sustainability. The new model generation will move completely away from leather surfaces and also reduce its use of chrome components to almost zero. A minimal ecological footprint is deeply anchored in the brand’s tradition and is incorporated more comprehensively than ever by MINI Design into the new model generation.
Auto Bavaria, a dealership group for the BMW Group in Malaysia, has opened its new outlet in Jalan Chan Sow Lin, Kuala Lumpur, to complement the aftersales services at Auto Bavaria Kuala Lumpur. The facility, referred to as Auto Bavaria CSL, focusses on providing quick service and repairs for BMW and MINI vehicles with the BMW & MINI Service Fast Lane.
It is the third Auto Bavaria service workshop in the city centre, alongside Jalan Tun Razak and Sungai Besi. It operates 6 days a week, except on public holidays
Offering regular vehicle maintenance, wear and tear repairs, tyre replacements, cosmetic repairs, etc, the new 39,800 square-foot facility has a customer lounge, Isetta Bar, reception bays for incoming vehicles and a BMW AC charging station. At this time, it has a team of 23 employees
According to Vi Thim Juan, Managing Director of Auto Bavaria, Auto Bavaria CSL can provide BMW and MINI owners with the necessary service and repairs for their vehicles within 2 hours, further optimising the Premium Ownership Experience for customers in Malaysia.
“For BMW Group Malaysia, the commitment that we share with our dealers across the country to fulfil the promise of Sheer Driving remains our greatest pride. Part of this commitment is ensuring that we deliver exceptional customer service to all our BMW, MINI and also BMW Motorrad customers – and to do so efficiently. We are pleased to be celebrating with Auto Bavaria today –the establishment of their second BMW & MINI Service Fast Lane centre in the country,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
Having delivered 8,439 BMW passenger vehicles and 978 MINI vehicles, BMW Group Malaysia captured the leading position in the segment last year. Of the number, 16% were electrified, bringing the total number of electrified BMW and MINI vehicles on Malaysian roads today to just over 21,600 units.
“2021 was the year of our electrification-offensive, for us as well as the BMW Group worldwide, and with the amazing response we have received in Malaysia for the all-new BMW i models, we are confident that the Electric Future we envision for Malaysia will soon become reality. We are ready for it and so is Malaysia as we now steer and drive into 2022 fully electrified,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
3-Series most popular
The 3-Series accounted for 28% of total BMW deliveries with over 2,400 units in 2021, the most popular model being the 320i Sport. The 2-Series overtook the long-favoured 5-Series for the very first time, with over 1,270 cars delivered to customers. For this model, the 218i Gran Coupe introduced in October 2020 was the bestseller. The 5-Series, which is the second oldest BMW model line assembled in Malaysia, followed closely behind with 1,150 units.
Bestselling BMW model in Malaysia in 2021 was the 3-Series.
Throughout 2021, the BMW X family of Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs) remained popular, with over 3,200 vehicles delivered. The X1 continued to be the top-seller over 960 units, followed by the electrified X5 which had over 850 units delivered, a 22% increase from the previous year.
More electrified MINIs sold
The MINI brand saw a 5.6% growth in 2021, led again by the MINI Countryman. Over 68% of MINI sales were of this model, the largest in the range. Like the BMW brand, MINI too has seen increased sales in its electric models. In 2021, over 16% of all MINI vehicles delivered were electrified, compared to 2020 where the figure stood at just over 7%.
There is increased interest in electric vehicles, as evident by growing sales of the MINI Electric.
Over 50% of all BMW and MINI vehicle (and also BMW Motorrad motorcycles) delivered last year were financed by BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. The digitalisation of the customer journey also continued with the expansion of the BMW Engage online financing application to include the BMW Premium Selection brand. Eight out of ten contracts last year were funded digitally, equating to over 4,400 contracts funded via BMW Engage.
Globally, the BMW Group reported 8.4% growth last year, with a total of 2,521,525 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles delivered to customers worldwide. BMW vehicles accounted for 88% of the number and for fully electric models, there was a 133.2% increase (for all brands), which is an indication that electric mobility is catching on and growing each year.
100,000 vehicles assembled locally
BMW Group Malaysia will soon set a new milestone at its assembly plant in Kulim when the 100,000 vehicle assembled (from the time BMW itself was involved in local assembly) rolls out. This eventual milestone affirms the carmaker’s confidence in its continued investments towards building and sustaining Malaysia as a regional automotive hub. With growing interest for electrification in Malaysia, the BMW Group has also introduced more powertrain options for its line-up of locally-assembled models.
The 100,000th vehicle assembled in Malaysia since the BMW Group Malaysia was established will soon roll out from the facility in Kedah. (Below) BMW engines are also assembled in the same area at a separate facility.
With range anxiety and infrastructure being the most pressing issues for customers and automakers alike in advancing electromobility in the country, BMW Group Malaysia says it will continue to accelerate the roll-out of its public charging network nationwide. As of January 2022, there are 77 BMW i Charging facilities across the country, with 25 facilities powered by partnerships with local dealers and industry players. This network is complemented with 16 charging points with Shell Recharge & Park Easy as well as 319 charging facilities with GreenTech Malaysia and its ChargEV platform.
Going beyond selling motor vehicles
“We are going beyond delivering premium vehicles that are the Ultimate Driving Machines, but vehicles that are ultimately responsible for the planet and our future generations. We recognise that the time has come for a shared vision for electrified mobility with a shared responsibility by all stakeholders to act and transform our industries into a responsible ecosystem that is built for the future. For us at BMW Group Malaysia, this is an ecosystem where Future Mobility can truly thrive in. This is the future we envision and with the support of our customers, dealers, associates and the Malaysian government here – we are more than optimistic that this ‘Electric Future’ will be a successful one,” Mr. de Visser said.
BMW Group Malaysia will continue to accelerate the roll-out of its public charging network nationwide.
BMW Group Malaysia was established in the early 2000s to be directly involved in activities that cover the wholesale of BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad vehicles, including overall planning of sales, marketing and after-sales. Since starting with just a National Sales Centre in Cyberjaya, the organisation has expanded to include assembly facilities in Kedah, the BMW Group Data Centre and BMW Group Regional Training Centre in Cyberjaya, and the BMW Group Parts Distribution Centre at the Free Industrial Zone of the Senai International Airport in Johor.
If Sir Alec Issigonis was designing the original Mini today, chances are it would have an electric motor. When it was launched in 1959, it was not just a little car but one which saved fuel at a time when there was an oil shortage caused by the Suez Crisis. Within its small footprint, creative use was made of the available space to accommodate four persons with their luggage.
The original Mini showed creative use of space in a small car.
Living on in a sustainable way
Although the original Mini was retired and its succeeding generations have charted a new course for the model, many units still exist around the world. With the MINI Recharged project which converts classic Minis to electric drive, the Mini legacy continues in the 21st century in a sustainable way.
The conversion of classic Minis to an electric drive combines traditional values with future-oriented technology. The idea was born even before the carmaker had a fully electric car. As a one-off, a classic Mini Electric was built in 2018 and presented at the New York Auto Show. The reactions were so positive that a dedicated team from MINI Plant Oxford set to work and developed the plan to offer a conversion to those who had the original Mini.
Changes are ‘reversible’ later on
To experience traditional go-kart handling with an emission-free drivetrain, the original petrol engine of the classic Mini is replaced by a modern electric drive. Only reversible changes are made to the substance of the car during the conversion as part of MINI Recharged. Careful handling of the historical heritage is an important part of the concept.
This makes it possible to restore the classic Mini to its original condition at a later date. During the conversion, the original engine of each vehicle is marked and stored so it can be reused in the event of a future retrofit of the classic Mini.
The MINI Recharged project means a vehicle’s life can be extended in a sustainable way. A classic Mini can now be given a new lease of life, accompanying its owner into the future, whilst maintaining its much-loved heritage. The drive is a modern electric motor that generates a continuous output of up to 90 kW and accelerates the electrified classic Mini from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9 seconds.
Classic Mini dashboard with meters positioned in the middle but look closely at the meters (below) and you’ll see that they show drive temperature, the selected gear, range and of course, speed.
The energy is supplied by a high-voltage battery pack, which can be charged with an output of up to 6.6 kW for a range estimated to be around 160 kms. In addition, every electrified classic Mini from MINI Recharged receives the characteristic central instrument cluster, familiar since the early days of the model, but with displays showing the drive temperature, the selected gear, range and speed.
A whole new driving experience
The Mini has been well known as loved for its go-kart character and with the MINI Recharged, that zippiness will still be available with instant acceleration and an almost silent drivetrain. And while original Minis with combustion engines cannot enter the electric or low-emission driving zones of many large cities in Europe, this electrified Mini will be allowed to do so. Thus its owners will be able to drive along the streets of London just like the original owners in the Swinging Sixties and once again be part of the cityscape, without the driver having to pay an environmental tax (congestion charge) beforehand.
The original fuel filler point for petrol (inset) is replaced by a charging port on the Mini Recharged.
In addition, the converted car does not need a new registration (such a conversion is not allowed in Malaysia, which the JPJ has made clear). This, in a way, fits in the aspect of circular economy which the BMW Group promotes. For this project, no new vehicles are being produced and are created from much-loved, existing cars. It allows an original Mini to carry on in a second, more sustainable life.
Today, one in five new MINI models has an electrified drive and now the MINI Recharged project will allow the love of the brand’s classic vehicles to become an experience combining the past and the future.
The modern MINI Electric has been available in Malaysia since 2020 and can be purchased tax-free for the next few years.
Volkswagen offers discount, interest-free repayment
Owners of Volkswagen vehicles who have had their vehicles damaged by the floods will be pleased to know that if they use authorized Volkswagen service dealerships, they can get 30% off parts and labour for repair works. This offer is available from now until February 28, 2022. Owners are encouraged to download the new Volkswagen Cares app (Apple App Store/Google Play Store) to redeem the flood relief support voucher. Terms and conditions apply.
To further alleviate the financial burden that many may be facing, there is also an easy payment plan where owners have the option to spread out their bill over 6 or 12 months with no interest charged (terms and conditions apply).
“All of us at Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia are deeply saddened by the flash floods that struck Malaysia over the weekend. Our thoughts are with those who are impacted and are facing loss and damages in the aftermath. We hope that our assistance will help to relieve the burden of our owners during this difficult time,” said the company’s Managing Director, Erik Winter.
BMW Group Malaysia offers reductions and rebates
BMW Group Malaysia is also offering support to its customers with up to a 20% reduction on parts repair for BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad owners affected by the flood over the weekend. Authorized dealerships will also provide an RM300 rebate on the towing cost for affected owners. The reduction and rebates are valid until January 31, 2022.
“Following the flood cases that have been reported in various states in the country, we remain committed to deliver peace of mind for our customers throughout their ownership experience, even during this challenging time. To this end, BMW Group Malaysia and our network of dealers stand ready to provide our customers with the needed support when it comes to their vehicles,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
To obtain support, owners can contact their preferred authorized dealership or contact the BMW Roadside Assistance for more information. Alternatively, they may also contact the Customer Interaction Centre at 1 800 88 3000.
It’s always good to use genuine parts when there is a need to replace the various parts of your vehicle. These are parts which are made specifically for your vehicle by the manufacturer of the vehicle, or by a supplier that is approved to make what are known as OEM parts (‘OEM’ stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer). They are reliable and should have the same quality as your vehicle as the quality standards are usually high.
Sourcing and acquiring genuine parts for your vehicle is usually done at authorised service centres. However, it is an open market and many of the same parts may also be available at other places. They may also cost less but there is the danger that they may not actually be genuine. There are lots of fake parts and motorists are often warned to avoid using them as they can cause damage due to poor quality – or even worse, cause an accident if they fail.
Genuine, with discounted prices
SpareXHub was started with the aim of addressing the issues of ensuring that parts are genuine and also at prices which may be lower. Having made a name for itself as an e-commerce platform for the marketing of discounted genuine auto spare parts, SpareXHub is now taking the discounted bit to the next level with a campaign where customers stand to save thousands of ringgit on genuine parts for BMW, Mini or Volkswagen models.
Celebrating their 3rd anniversary this year, they are going a step further by offering any single part or component for just RM3 under the ‘RM3 for 1’ campaign. The condition is that the customer must prove ownership of the vehicle the item is intended for.
“The average BMW, Mini and Volkswagen has approximately 15,000 individual part numbers. Components deteriorate over time. Here’s a chance to pick a genuine part that was originally designed for your car and any minimise any risk with fitting lower quality aftermarket parts,” explained Devindran Ramanathan, SpareXHub co-founder.
Only for genuine vehicle owners
As the campaign suggests, customers will be eligible to purchase any single item from SpareXHub’s vast inventory for the three marques at just RM3. The reason why they must prove they own the vehicle that the part is intended for is to prevent speculators and resellers from abusing the campaign.
“Furthermore, customers will also be eligible to purchase the next part at a 90% discount provided they like the SpareXHub Facebook page and share it with no less than 3 other friends,” added Devindran.
The campaign runs from October 25 2021 to November 5, 2021. During that period, customers can log onto SpareXHub’s website and click on the ‘RM3 for 1’ banner. This will lead them to a form to book an appointment slot to view the item at their storage facility. It is essential that an appointment is made due to social distancing requirements required by the health authorities.
Appointments can be made for 10 am – 5 pm (weekdays) or 10 am – 1 pm (Saturday). The SpareXHub facility is located at 12C, Hedgeford Innovation Park, Jalan Tandang, 46050, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. You may look up for Aramex Jalan Tandang on Google Maps or Waze.
For more information, visit www.sparexhub.com or contact Devindran Ramanathan personally at +6019-241 1471.
SpareXHub, a Malaysian-based e-commerce platform for discounted, genuine auto spare parts will be organizing a 2-week long sale next month. The sale is for genuine BMW, MINI and Volkswagen car spare parts and there will be discounts of up to 85%. The sale will take place fromSeptember 1 – September 14, 2021 between 10 am and 6 pm (10 am to 1 pm on Saturday) at Aramex PJ, No 12, Jalan Tandang, Seksyen 51, Petaling Jaya 46050 in Selangor.
New, original and genuine
All items offered by SpareXHub are guaranteed to be new and original but at discounted prices. This means that you can save money getting genuine parts (usually the best option for replacements) instead of aftermarket products by other companies.
SpareXHub has a wide range of parts of many different brands and models, and all the parts are original as well as genuine.
SpareXHub has over 2,500 BMW and MINI spare parts and 500 Volkswagen parts. These range from regular maintenance service items such as filters to body parts such as bumpers. There are also interesting genuine accessories if you want to enhance the looks of your car.
Brand experts can offer assistance
With more than 100+ years of experience in the team, SpareX can cater to the needs of automotive stockists, independent workshops and car owners. Brand experts will be on hand to ensure you purchase the right parts for your car and provide you with the necessary knowledge, information and guidance.
Brand specialists are on hand to provide assistance in selecting the right part as well as offer advice.
Appointment required
All customer visits are strictly by appointment only. This means that prior registration and confirmation will be required. Once this is done, the organizers will be ready for your arrival and to ensure that all COVID-19 SOPs are strictly adhered to. Customers are encouraged to use the SpareX online platform and e-payment services for a more seamless process. Click on this Google form link to book an appointment slot.
For more information about SpareXHub or to find a part for your car, visit the SpareXHub website at www.sparexhub.com. You may also contact a representative of SpareXHub directly via Whatsapp at 018-205 0120 or via email at sales2@sparexhub.com.
It’s all about sustainability today, using materials and processes that do not deplete and to preserve the environment for future generations. In the auto industry, sustainability is pursued seriously in all areas and with the MINI STRIP, the British brand showcases inspirational ideas for a more sustainable method of automotive design.
A custom-made, one-off model co-created by MINI and Paul Smith, a well known fashion designers, the MINI STRIP is guided by the theme of ‘Simplicity, Transparency, Sustainability’. As the name suggests, the process began by completely stripping down a MINI Electric and reducing it to its structural essence. Only then were the elements that the designer viewed as absolutely necessary defined and implemented – with sustainability as the top priority.
Incidentally, the original Mini was also a model of simplicity, with a very basic but functional design that was space-efficient as well. Sir Alex Issigonis, the designer, made it easy to build and even thought that placing the speedometer in the centre would simplify having lefthand drive and righthand drive versions. It’s a feature which continues to this day in the modern MINI though not for the same reason.
An outside perspective
As a designer with a passion for bicycles, books and much more, Smith asked questions that provided fresh energy to explore beyond the obvious. The joint design process applied the principles of maximum reduction, to produce a minimalist, high-class design with a fresh and unconventional appeal.
Raw materials are a very deliberate part of the exterior design – the body was left in its unfinished state with no coloured paint applied, but instead just a thin film of transparent paint to protect against corrosion. Grinding marks from the factory have been consciously left intact on the galvanised steel panels to clearly identify the car as a functional object. This intentionally rough-hewn effect was dubbed ‘the perfect imperfection’ by Smith.
‘Unaffected expressiveness’ of the materials
Parts of the MINI black band have been 3D-printed from recycled plastic and their basic material qualities have been left exposed – like the metal panels. Visible screws in the add-on parts show how simple dismantling would be and how easily the vehicle could be reincorporated into the raw-material cycle at the end of its service life. The functional and distinctive front and rear apron inserts were also manufactured via a 3D printing process, which produced their striking texture.
The blanked-off radiator grille and its wheel covers help to reduce drag, thereby increasing its theoretical range. The grille trim and aerodynamic covers on the wheels are made from recycled Perspex, saving both weight and resources. Recycled perspex was also used for the large panoramic roof that allows curious eyes to view the largely bare structure of the bodyshell inside.
‘Simplicity and Transparency’ inside
Smith calls the MINI STRIP a ‘classic with a twist’ – both refer to unexpected details that are only revealed through the designers’ work at a second or third glance. Opening the doors reveals the signature Paul Smith stripes in a vivid composition of 5 colours; the charging flap adds a splash of neon green when opened, while the engraved drawing of an electric plug on the flap is Smith’s own work.
Inside, all trim parts have been purposefully omitted (with the exception of the dashboard, topper pad and parcel shelf), turning the bodyshell into the dominant visual feature of the cabin. It has been coloured blue at the explicit request of Smith, producing a particularly eye-catching effect. The exposed, basic material and intense blue tone give the interior an aesthetic appeal all of its own; it is bare yet feels ‘dressed’ at the same time.
Instead of the usual multi-part design, the dashboard consists of one large, semi-transparent section with a smoked-glass finish. Taking its cue from MINI design’s traditional use of circular elements, the geometry has been simplified with a graphical interpretation. However, the classic centre meter is omitted, leaving the driver’s smartphone to take centrestage instead. It is placed where the centre display would normally be, connects automatically to the car and becomes the media control centre. The only physical controls in the interior are located lower in the centre stack, where the toggle switches for the power windows and the start/stop function can be found.
Innovative materials
Alongside the minimalist design inside the MINI STRIP, the use of recycled, environment-friendly materials also underpins the car’s sustainability credentials. The interior is free of both leather and chrome, with the seats upholstered in a knitted fabric. The completely mono-material design for the seat coverings means they are fully recyclable – including the piping – allowing material circularity to be maintained.
The floormats are made from recycled rubber with their terrazzo-like pattern a by-product of the recycling and manufacturing process, positively showcasing the multi-coloured constituent elements enjoying a second life as part of this material.
Minimalist and functional
The steering wheel, which is also a focal point of the interior, has been reduced to the most essential functions. Its rim has been wrapped in handlebar tape in true road bike style. Three aluminium spokes connect the rim to the steering wheel’s impact absorber, whose mesh covering makes it possible to see the airbag behind.
As on the outside of the car, there are visible screws showing how easy it would be to dismantle the steering wheel at a later date and reuse the aluminium. The door panels are made from the same mesh material that covers the airbag, enabling the door structure to be clearly seen behind the mesh panels, which are held within a frame. The transparency of the knitted mesh changes according to the angle of view, adding a further dimension to the interior’s appearance.
The pull handles in the door shoulders are made from wound climbing rope and, together with the matching seat belts, liven up the interior with their bright orange finish. Like the pull handles, the door openers in milled aluminium are housed in the cork door shoulders and provide a high-class finishing touch for the door area.
As the eye wanders further up the door, it arrives at the exposed airbag unit in the roof pillar. This has the same effect as the visible cable routing in the interior – deliberately drawing attention to functions that are normally concealed during manufacture.
The MINI STRIP translates MINI’s ‘Creative Use of Space’ philosophy into a radical and fundamental redesign of a MINI – especially in the interior. As such, it can provide a catalyst for more sustainable use of resources in automotive design.
