The Maserati’s MC20 Fuoriserie Edition for David Beckham is like a letter written to the city of Miami, home of Beckham’s football club in America. It began as part of the carmaker’s Fuoriserie customization program which allows customers to create a very personalised Maserati. In this case, the customer was the brand’s ambassador himself, who became a designer with the help of the Maserati Centro Stile.
At Maserati Fuoriserie, a car starts as a blank canvas and customers are offered an array of instruments to create with. The rest is left to the clients taste and inspiration, giving them the opportunity to set their own trends and express their personality.
After a personalized and collaborative design process, Beckham and the designers created the MC20 Fuoriserie Edition for David Beckham. This car translates true passion into a carbonfibre monocoque, entirely Made in Italy, and powered by a patented V6 petrol engine derived from Formula 1 technologies.
The end result of this very personal sportscar is black and pink, a chromatic dichotomy, as well as the interplay between glossy and matt surfaces. The team colours are black and pink, and the team uniforms are characterized by contrasting glossy-matt treatments.
Starting from this as an inspiration, the bodywork features a glossy black tone which contrasts with the Trident logos on the grille and on the C-pillar, in black, but with an opaque finish. The Maserati lettering on the rear is also opaque, while the MC20 badge on the door is pastel pink, as are the Brembo brake calipers.
The interior, in leather and Alcantara, is black with contrast-stitching in pink. The backrests, in Alcantara, are worked with a tone-on-tone laser engraving method and the headrest features a 3-dimensional pastel pink embroidery. In the centre tunnel between the two seats is a personalized nameplate with a glossy-matte effect. At the top, next to the Trident, the Maserati Fuoriserie lettering is pastel pink, at the bottom are the italics ‘For David’ which appears with an aluminium effect.
“As car designers, our mission is to offer a holistic experience. This value guides our Brand’s stylistic research, making each Maserati uniquely recognizable. Our customization program is another example of our brand’s goal to create singular experiences for our customers: Maserati Fuoriserie is a blank canvas, on which Maserati clients can write their own stories and unleash their creativity, making their dreams come true,” said Klaus Busse, Head of Maserati Design.
“Designing this special edition MC20 with David, as with all our Fuoriserie projects, is also an ode to the Brand’s past, taking us back to a time when every car was hand-built to the client’s requests, giving life to a one-off, a true ‘fuoriserie’,” he explained.
“I have always been a car enthusiast, so to be part of designing and creating my MC20 through the Fuoriserie customisation programme has been an amazing experience. Cars are about individual taste whether it’s the model, colour or small personal details on the inside. It has been incredible to collaborate with the Maserati team and designers to create this one-off car that is inspired by my second home, Miami and my football club there. It is a joy to be behind the wheel,” said Beckham.
When you pay over a million ringgit for a car, you would definitely want it to be special even though it is likely to be one of the few in the country. After all, if you can pay that much, what would be a few hundred thousand more to customize it to exactly how you like your car to be. The premium and luxury carmakers have such customization programs and now Bugatti also offers it officially with Bugatti Sur Mesure. The program is in response to ever-growing demand for personalized Bugatti creations.
Bugatti Sur Mesure, translated to English, means ‘tailored’, and it builds upon the marque’s distinguished history of coachbuilding, handcrafted interiors, paint finishes, embroidery and bodywork. The collective expertise of skilled designers and engineers is drawn upon for ultra-customized designs, materials and finishes.
As part of the official program, with one-to-one support from the Bugatti Sur Mesure Team, customers will be guided through the world of possibilities open to them. When configuring a Bugatti, the sheer number of exterior colours and leather finishes is nearly unlimited, but Bugatti Sur Mesure can take a further step and create a truly unique piece of personalized automotive art.
In recent years, Bugatti has showcased the depth of its ability to personalize its hyper sportscars to an ever greater degree. For example, in 2013, the Veyron ‘Les Legendes de Bugatti’ series saw 6 exclusive model editions, each personalized with unique exterior and interior finishes, celebrating individual heroes of the marque.
2019 witnessed the arrival of the Chiron1 ‘Zebra 1 of 1’ – a special commission for a customer in Qatar. Featuring an elaborate Titanic Blue and Gunpower Grey colour scheme, the car was hand painted by Bugatti’s talented craftspeople over the course of more than 3 weeks.
This year, the Divo2 ‘Lady Bug’ made its debut with a highly complex geometric-dynamic algorithmic fading pattern. The pattern was developed over 18 months for the Divo’s bodywork, illustrating how Bugatti will push the boundaries in making customers’ visions become reality.
The first official ‘Sur Mesure’ creation for a customer is a Chiron Pur Sport inspired by the 20th century heroics of renowned racing driver, Louis Chiron. Early racing pioneers who piloted Bugatti’s prototype racing cars continue to fascinate and are admired for their bravery and talent displayed on-track. Today, their spirit lives on and is the very source of the custom design of the unique Chiron Pur Sport.
Among Louis Chiron’s countless victories at the wheel of a Bugatti was his legendary 1931 win at the French Grand Prix, together with Achille Varzi, in a Bugatti Type 51 emblazoned with the number ‘32’. This number – painted entirely by hand – now adorns the sportscar as just one of a number of custom-made elements developed especially for this customer.
Two new exterior colours were created to pay homage to the legendary Grand Prix racing Bugattis of the 1920s and 1930s. The Bugatti Sur Mesure team also developed a new fading ‘EB’ painted pattern, applied meticulously by hand, which is complemented by a multi-layer stitched ‘EB’ motif on the door panels. Both required new techniques and processes to be developed.
The ‘32’ and ‘Grand Prix’ motifs continue throughout the cabin, including a special centre console inlay in black anodized aluminium, with a silver hand-painted inscription. The motifs extend to the door sills, headrests and entry lights. Subtle branding distinguishing the model as a rare and unique product of the program can also be found. Many of the customer’s ideas will also be available to more owners of the Chiron Pur Sport.
“For many years, we have worked with our clients to create their own personal vision of the ultimate hyper sports car. It has always been a highly tailored process but as an ever-increasing number of our clients request detailed and intricate customization, the launch of Bugatti Sur Mesure will ensure we can cater to their desires with the perfect level of detail required from a Bugatti,” said Hendrik Malinowski, Bugatti’s Managing Director for Sales and Marketing.
In the first 6 months of this year, 1,595 units of Aston Martin’s first SUV and first 5-seater were delivered to customers worldwide, joining the 1,516 units in 2020. That’s not a huge number by global industry standards so it is pretty exclusive (it should be for around RM1 million each) even if you get one in ‘standard’ form. But in that stratospheric segment, most customers want more exclusivity and personalisation, so the carmakers have special divisions to cater to such needs.
For those who prefer not to use the services of the carmaker, there are also companies that specialise in personalisation of any motor vehicle – in appearance, in fittings and even in upgrading performance. In recent years, such companies have given attention to SUVs, which even the luxury brands could not ignore.
MANSORY’s complete conversion package gives a more aggressive look to the standard DBX (below) while still maintaing the recognisable form.
One of them is MANSORY, the 32-year old car modification firm based in Germany. MANSORY has already done a number of luxury SUVs and now with Aston Martin’s DBX also in the market, it offers a more exclusive model for those who must be different.
The company has developed a complete conversion for the SUV which includes upgrading of the engine by the Performance Department. The V8 twin-turbo engine of the DBX has its engine management system replaced and new and larger turbochargers are also installed. For better efficiency, a sports air filter and high-performance sports exhaust system are also installed.
The exhaust system is offered in two versions for customers to choose. They differ recognisably in the positioning of the tailpipes; either located in the area of the standard rear apron opening, or terminating as closely spaced double pipes in the middle of the carbonfibre rear apron.
After this engine conversion, the output rises to 800 ps from the standard 550 ps while torque hits 1,000 Nm, about 43% more than standard. This improves performance to a maximum speed of 325 km/h and 0 to 100 km/in a short 3.8 seconds (according to MANSORY’S tests).
The high-speed performance is helped by the refined aerodynamics of the vehicle. This results in an impressive wide-body styling in combination with optimised aerodynamics with increased downforce for significantly improved cornering performance at higher speeds. For this purpose, the front of the DBX is redesigned with a completely new apron including an integrated front lip made of carbonfibre. The ultra-light and painted carbonfibre bonnet with additional cooling air outlets (visible carbon) revises the front section.
On the flanks, MANSORY-designed extensions continue the design language and make the DBX look significantly more powerful, but also lower and more elongated. To increase the downforce on the rear axle, the engineers developed a special spoiler for mounting on the tailgate and a matching roof spoiler – both of which take up the design language of the standard tear-off edge of the tailgate and are also made entirely of carbonfibre.
In addition, a new rear apron with diffuser skilfully sets off the striking tailpipes of the sports exhaust system. Numerous carbonfibre components such as trim strips, mirror housings and air intake trims add further striking highlights, some of which are further accentuated with accents in the special Limegreen colour.
The DBX also features a new wheel design called ‘DX.5’ in 24×10 inch (front) and 24×12.5 inch (rear) dimensions with matching 295/30R24 and 355/25R24 tyre sizes. The rim design optimises ventilation of the brake system on the one hand and emphasises the car’s dynamic appearance.
These not only fill out the front and rear wheel arches coherently, but also combine both sportiness and technical elegance in the best possible way. The colour scheme of the rims was chosen to match the overall colour concept of the car – black and Limegreen.
The interior – matching the exterior design – is kept entirely in black. The Limegreen colour used to accentuate details on the exterior is also found in many places in the interior. The edging of the floor mats, the seats, the centre console, the decorative stitching on the dashboard and the sports steering wheel are all finished in this colour. Individually embroidered floor mats, the use of fine visible carbonfibre and the covering of almost all surfaces with the finest leather add further highlights to the handcrafted interior.
Although the models which Ferrari usually publicises are those produced in more than a single unit, there are also cars which the carmaker has made which are not shown or mentioned because the customers may not like publicity. But some do agree to the exposure and the customer who commissioned the Ferrari BR20, the latest addition to the brand’s One-Off series, is one of them.
The BR20 is a 2-seater V12 coupe developed on the GTC4Lusso platform which, in terms of its philosophy and styling approach, references the Ferrari coupes of the 1950s and 1960s, without the slightest hint of nostalgia. Instead, it incorporates styling themes typical of some of the most iconic 12-cylinder models in Ferrari history, such as the 410 SA and 500 Superfast.
The GTC4Lusso’s two rear seats have been removed to add extra dynamism to the BR20’s ultra-sleek fastback line. The new car is about 75 mm longer than the original, thanks to a specific rear overhang treatment designed to create a silhouette that beautifully emphasises its proportions.
One of the cornerstones of the design process for this one-off was the radical modification made to the cabin volume. This in turn gave the design team the freedom to conceive the innovative proportions that ultimately produced a powerful yet stylistically coherent exterior design theme.
The new cabin design creates the impression of a pair of arches running lengthwise from A-pillar to rear spoiler. The rear volume of the arch has been hollowed out to create an aerodynamic channel with the air outlet concealed by the black rear fascia under the spoiler. This modern take on Ferrari’s ‘flying buttress’ theme firmly connects the car to the brand’s signature styling cues not just from its GT tradition, but also sportscars such as the 599 GTB Fiorano.
Ferrari GT4CLusso
To visually lighten the cabin, the black paint of the roof visually connects the windscreen to the rear screen, which stands above the surface of the rear tailgate as if to channel the airflow. A muscular rear bumper melds with the aggressive look of the rest of the car. Twin taillights create a visual dialogue with the tailpipes, which are lower and set into a prominent aerodynamic diffuser with active flaps on the underbody. Even the BR20’s twin round exhaust tips were designed especially for this one-off model.
The BR20’s many carbonfibre details highlight the edgy dynamic characteristics and powerful performance of this car which has all-wheel drive. The wide front grille sports an upper carbonfibre element, a note of stylistic consistency with other recent Ferrari one-offs, while unusual chrome side inserts help underline the car’s dynamic front stance.
The BR20’s unique identity is further underscored by the front grille’s striking new horizontal slats that lend a powerful sense of three-dimensionality. A virtually endless list of elements was designed specifically for the BR20, not least its modified headlights. They are lower in height compared to those of the GTC4Lusso with slimmer DRLs, which makes the bonnet seem even longer and sleeker. The 20-inch tone-on-tone diamond-finish wheels were also created especially for this unique car.
The BR20’s interior, trimmed in two shades of brown leather and carbonfibre, was developed to meet the customer’s expectations. The seats are trimmed in dark brown Heritage Testa di Moro leather and sport an exclusive pattern at the front as well as silver cross-stitching. The cabin volume runs uninterrupted from the windscreen to the luggage compartment at the rear, creating a sense of unique lightness and airiness for occupants. Oak trim with carbonfibre inserts adorns the rear bench and luggage deck, which conceals a deeper loading area when folded flat, as well as the door handles.
Customers who make use of the Special Projects programme receive unique cars with an exclusive design following the requirements of the customer. This is a one-of-a-kind car and ownership of all design features and elements will be the customer’s. The entire process of development from the time the customer provides a brief can last, on average, more than one year. Typically, customers are involved in every phase of work.
Today, ‘disruptor’ has become the popular label for those who refuse to adhere to established conventions. This attribute has made fortunes, slain great institutions and even challenged the very notion of currency. Had the term existed in the early 20th century, Rolls and Royce would have been among the era’s arch-disruptors. Through their pursuit of perfection, they proved that a car could credibly replace the horse and carriage.
In the new era following the relaunch of the Rolls-Royce brand in 2003, a new generation of customers desired a less formal expression of brand. These clients in this new era were from new industries and geographies. Their success was defined on their own terms and Bespoke allowed them to have cars that countered the expected codes of luxury. Bespoke would come to even subvert Rolls-Royce – respectfully, of course. This was confirmed following a chance meeting between Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, Torsten Muller-Otvos and a customer who had asked an outside tuning house to give his Wraith a finish of black chrome with darkened wheels.
A permanent Bespoke series
‘Darker’ Rolls-Royces were in fashion but those who desired them did not believe Rolls-Royce would agree to their wishes. However, they were misinformed because the brand’s contemporary success is defined by a willingness to listen, participate and define changing cultures and norms. And so Black Badge was born as the marque’s first permanent Bespoke series.
Last year, 27% of new Rolls-Royce cars delivered worldwide were Black Badge editions, the number having grown since the first such edition was introduced for the Wraith and Ghost in 2016. Today, the carmaker introduces the purest and most technologically advanced Black Badge model yet – the new Black Badge Ghost.
Black is the most favoured colour
Although customers are free to select any of the 44,000 ‘ready-to-wear’ colours or even create their own entirely unique colour, the overwhelming majority of women and men who requested this darker expression of Ghost have selected the signature Black. To create what is the auto industry’s darkest black, 45 kgs of paint is atomised and applied to an electrostatically-charged bare bodyshell before being oven dried. The car then receives two layers of clear coat before being hand-polished to produce the signature high-gloss piano finish.
At between three and five hours in duration, this operation is entirely unknown in mass production, creating an intensity simply unattainable elsewhere in the automotive industry. It is this depth of darkness that customers can also add a high-contrast, hand-painted Coachline, which has done much to create the Black Badge ‘black and neon’ aesthetic that has come to characterise this vivid family of Rolls-Royce cars.
To complement the exterior finish, an entirely customisable process was created that allows Rolls-Royce hallmarks such as the high-polished Spirit of Ecstasy and Pantheon Grille to be ‘subverted’. Instead of simply painting these components, a specific chrome electrolyte is introduced to the traditional chrome plating process that is co-deposited on the stainless-steel substrate, darkening the finish. Its final thickness is just one micrometre – around one hundredth of the width of a human hair. Each of these components is precision-polished by hand to achieve a mirror-black chrome finish before being installed.
Special wheel with carbonfibre
The Bespoke 21-inch composite wheelset is also something special. Designed in the Black Badge house style and reserved for Black Badge Ghost, the barrel of each wheel is made up of 22 layers of carbonfibre laid on three axes, then folded back on themselves at the outer edges of the rim, forming a total of 44 layers of carbonfibre for greater strength.
A 3D-forged aluminium hub is bonded to the rim using aerospace-grade titanium fasteners and finished with the marque’s hallmark Floating Hubcap, ensuring the Double R monogram remains upright at all times. To celebrate the material substance and remarkable surface effect, a lightly tinted lacquer protects the finish but still allows the technical complexity of the unique carbonfibre construction to be visible.
Advanced luxury materials
Advanced luxury materials created and crafted for a unique ambience within are defined by authenticity and material substance rather than overt statement. In this spirit, a complex but subtle weave that incorporates a deep diamond pattern rendered in carbon and metallic fibres has been created by the craftspeople.
Multiple wood layers are pressed onto the interior component substrates, using black Bolivar veneer for the uppermost base layer. This forms a dark foundation for the Technical Fibre layers that follow. Leaves woven from resin-coated carbon and contrasting metal-coated thread laid in a diamond pattern are applied by hand to the components in perfect alignment, creating a three-dimensional effect. To secure this extraordinary veneer, each component is cured for one hour under pressure at 100°C. This is then sand-blasted to create a keyed surface for 6 layers of lacquer, which is hand-sanded and polished before being incorporated into the car.
If specified, the Technical Fibre ‘Waterfall’ section of the individual rear seats receives the Black Badge family motif: the mathematical symbol that represents potential infinity known as a ‘Lemniscate’. Rendered in aerospace-grade aluminium on the lid of Black Badge Ghost’s Champagne cooler, it is applied between the third and fourth layer of a total of six layers of subtly tinted lacquer, creating the illusion that the symbol is floating above the Technical Fibre veneer.
By its very name, virtually all brightwork is subdued. The air vent surrounds on the dashboard and in the rear cabin are darkened using physical vapour deposition, one of the few methods of colouring metal that ensures parts will not discolour or tarnish over time or through repeated use.
For the Black Badge Ghost timepiece design, only the tips of the hands and the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock markers are picked out, in a subdued chrome finish, creating a remarkably minimal clock. The timepiece is flanked by a world-first Bespoke innovation that debuted with Ghost: the Illuminated Fascia, which displays an ethereal glowing Lemniscate, surrounded by more than 850 stars.
Located on the passenger side of the dashboard, the constellation and motif are completely invisible when the interior lights are not in operation. As in Ghost, the Lemniscate motif is illuminated via 152 LEDs mounted above and beneath the fascia, each colour-matched to the clock and instrument dial lighting. To ensure the Lemniscate is lit evenly, a 2 mm-thick light guide is used, featuring more than 90,000 laser-etched dots across the surface. This not only disperses the light evenly but creates a twinkling effect as the eye moves across the fascia, echoing the subtle sparkle of the Shooting Star Starlight Headliner.
Increased engine output
From the engineering point of view, there is a general similarity to the standard Ghost model and key to its potent character is the Architecture of Luxury. This is Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-aluminium spaceframe architecture that debuted with Phantom. This sub-structure not only delivers extraordinary body stiffness, but its flexibility and scalability allowed Ghost to be equipped with all-wheel drive, 4-wheel steering and the Planar Suspension system. For Black Badge, these engineering qualities have been comprehensively re-engineered, including the fitting of more voluminous air springs to alleviate body roll under more assertive cornering.
Under the long bonnet, the Rolls-Royce twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre V12 engine has 29 ps more, increasing total output to exactly 600 ps, while the addition of another 50 Nm of torque boost the output to exactly 900 Nm. The powertrain also has Bespoke transmission and throttle treatments to further enhance the engine’s increased power reserves. The ZF 8-speed transmission box and both front and rear-steered axles work collaboratively to adjust the levels of feedback to the driver, depending on throttle and steering inputs.
As with all products in the marque’s Black Badge portfolio, the ‘Low’ button situated on the gear selection stalk unlocks Black Badge Ghost’s full suite of technologies. This is asserted by the amplification of the engine through an entirely new exhaust system, subtly announcing its potency. All 900 Nm of torque is available from just 1,700rpm and, once underway in Low Mode, gearshift speeds are increased by 50% when the throttle is depressed to 90%, delivering the abundant power reserves almost instantly.
“In the 5 years since Black Badge became publicly available, this bold family of motor cars has come to symbolise the pinnacle of a new type of super-luxury product, setting in motion a shift across the wider luxury industry. Subsequently, nearly all luxury makers create products that seek to capture the Black Badge spirit,” said the CEO of Rolls-Royce.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected but may not show symptoms and still spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
GAZOO is a name that has been around since the early 2000s although back then, it was known only in Japan. It was the name of a website that was created and supervised by Akio Toyoda, currently. President of Toyota Motor Corporation. At that time, he had just joined the Board of Directors after having served in various roles at different Toyota subsidiaries and digitisation was accelerating.
From being the name for a website (which still exists today) that served as a hub for virtual shops mainly dealing in the auto business, GAZOO began to appear in motorsports towards the end of the 2000s. Being a racing driver and car enthusiast himself, Akio wanted to generate more excitement for the sport among the young and GAZOO Racing was to expand the role of promoting motorsports beyond that of traditional automakers.
Today GAZOO Racing is a major part of Toyota which is responsible for motorsports and high-performance products. Its scope has progressively broadened and in countries like Malaysia, GAZOO Racing (GR) has been established as a new performance brand.
Growing name in Malaysia
“GAZOO Racing is a name that has gained tremendous traction in the Malaysian market since we first introduced the brand here in 2017. The brand represents Toyota’s motor racing activities worldwide, and this has translated into a great number of initiatives locally that include the organizing of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival, Vios Challenge one-make race, GAZOO Racing Velocity Esports Championship, the launch of exclusive GR vehicles, the roll-out of the Vios GR-S in Malaysia and establishing the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program for young racing drivers,” said Akio Takeyama, GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsports Officer.
Exclusive GR parts
Now GAZOO Racing Malaysia is making available GAZOO Racing (GR) parts and accessories that are exclusively for the GR Yaris, Vios GR-S, Vios and Yaris. “The availability and sale of GR parts and accessories is a further extension of these initiatives as Toyota steps up its efforts to gain a bigger foothold in Malaysian motorsports,” said Mr. Takeyama.
Exclusive to the limited-edition GR Yaris are 5 styling upgrades – a GR Front Spoiler with Rear Extension; GR Side Skirts; GR Rear Bumper Spoiler; GR Sports Muffler and an GR Interior Panel Set (carbonfibre design).
All other parts are available for the Vios GR-S, Vios and Yaris. This, however, excludes the GR start/stop button, GR emblem, GR carpet mat, which already come standard in the Vios GR-S.
Only available at selected outlets
All GR Parts and accessories come with a 1-year warranty and to ensure quality fitment, customers can have the products installed at the respective GR Garages and GR outlets. The parts can be purchased only at 5 GR Garages and 39 GR outlets (Toyota dealerships that have teams competing in the Vios Challenge racing series).
The five GR Garages nationwide are Fokus Tetap (Shah Alam, Selangor), PCM Klang Motor (Klang, Selangor), Wing Hin Auto (Balakong, Selangor), Telagamas (Kulim, Kedah) and Mutiara Motorsports (Masai, Johor). The list of GR outlets can be found at www.toyota.com.my.
UMW Toyota Motor President, Ravindran K., said the availability of GR Parts allows customers to have a higher degree of personalization for their vehicles, especially those who share the passion for motorsports. “GR is as much about performance as it is about styling, safety and lifestyle, and this is reflected throughout the introductory list of parts we are making available today,” he said.
“While GR models are a pedigree of their own, the GR brand is not confined to only outright performance. The brand also conveys driving enjoyment and excitement, and this is precisely what customers can look forward to with the availability of these parts and accessories,” he added.
Since the days of Henry Ford who said ‘you can have your car in any colour you want as long as it’s black’, the process of painting a car constantly evolved. In the earliest days, the work was done manually and took around 40 days to complete painting a car. Today, with automated processes using robots, the complete job can take about 18 hours (including passing through the oven). The principles are essentially the same but the technology has become more advanced to achieve higher quality, especially the finish.
However, one constraint in painting cars in factories that assemble them is that variations are very limited. Even the number of colours is controlled for optimization and for personalisation, the work has to be done outside of the normal process. Factory managers would love to do it Henry Ford’s way with just one colour.
However, in today’s market, customers want choice and those who can afford it also want a degree of personalisation. This is especially so in the premium luxury segment and the manufacturers even have special divisions to cater to such specific requirements.
Increasing scope of individualisation
At the BMW Group’s factory in Dingolfing, Germany, a new pilot painting process has begun where several paint colours can be used and designs applied without stencils or masking the vehicle as the process is free of overspray. This highly innovative application method not only increases the scope of individualisation for customers but also contributes to sustainability by reducing waste and energy consumption.
The process developed by the BMW Group, in collaboration with Durr (a well known company in this field) is known as EcoPaintJet Pro application. It applies waterborne base coats and 2K clear coat without electrostatics, relying instead on jet application. In the conventional procedure, paint is atomised by a rotating bell with 35 to 55,000 revolutions per minute and adheres electrostatically to the body.
Different approach to painting
The paint is applied using an orifice plate that enables high edge definition with a variable paint thickness of between 1 and approximately 50 mm. This requires maximum precision from both the robot and application technology. It also means two different colours of paint can be used, eg for a contrasting roof, with stripes and other designs applied on various parts of the bodywork.
The focus of technology and material development was on achieving the maximum range of applications. It will now be possible to paint every exterior component – offering customers virtually limitless options for individualisation.
No need for masking
Until now, custom designs like this can only be realised using manual masking, a time-consuming process. With the new technology, the material and personnel costs this previously entailed will be also eliminated, making it possible to realize these options at a lower cost. The precision of spraying means there is no overspray and therefore no excess paint particles to be disposed of.
A further contribution to sustainable production comes from lower energy consumption. Since paint separation is no longer required, the amount of air needed is also les. At around 7,000 operating hours, this results in energy savings of more than 6,000 megawatt hours and reduces the carbon footprint by nearly 2,000 tonnes per year.
BMW M4 Coupe used for trial run
The technology is being used for the first time for 19 BMW M4 Coupes. These will have custom two-tone paintwork and M4 identification on the bonnet and tailgate. With the paintwork for the M4 small series, the BMW Group is testing the possibilities of the new process. These unique vehicles will initially be used in the company’s own fleet. Wider use of the innovative paint process is scheduled to begin in 2022 when other factories in the BMW Group production network adopt it.
Those who are planning to buy the new BMW iX can personalise it with a configurator provided by BMW Malaysia, allowing them to include add-on packages. The wide range of packages are available to customers who have already pre-booked their cars as well as potential customers who are planning to book the iX xDrive40 before October 12, 2021.
Introducing the BMW iX Configurator, Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said: “Providing opportunities for unique configurations of our next-generation BMW i vehicles is synonymous with our vision for the BMW i. In offering a fleet of powerful vehicles that are fully electric to our traditionally fuel-powered portfolio, we are also giving our loyal customers the Power of Choice to personalise their BMW vehicles according to their ownership needs – be it additional comfort, elegant interior fittings, or more safety and driving features, their options are open for the upcoming First-Ever BMW iX xDrive40 and BMW iX xDrive40 Sport.”
There are 7 packages to choose from, each package is individually tailored to enhance specific aspects of the driving experience for the new all-electric Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs). The packages are the Power Package, Design Package, Luxury Package, Iconic Package, Technology Package, Interior Upholstery Package, the latter having 2 premium upholstery options. Package prices range from RM3,020 to RM33,490.
With the Iconic Package, customers will also get the BMW IconicSounds Electric feature which generates an engine sound to match the driving dynamics, enhancing the emotion of the sports driving experience. IconicSounds is delivered through the audio system, and is tailored to 3 driving modes: Personal, Efficient and Sport.
The Luxury Package includes a Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge which becomes opaque or transparent at the touch of a button. This special effect is achieved by the alignment of liquid crystals in a film on the glass roof.
Pre-booking of the iX xDrive40 and iX xDrive40 Sport can be made on the BMW Shop Online platform with a fee of RM5,000. Customers who purchase BMW i models will enjoy a battery warranty of up to 8 years or 160,000 kms, whichever comes first. Owners of any of the new iX models can opt to have a BMW 5-Year Extended Warranty and 6-Year Service package at a special rate of RM16,170.
To know more, visit any authorised BMW dealership or visit www.bmw.com.my.
Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and although you may not show symptoms, you could spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.
Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur (PEM) , a department within the sportscar company, offers services to personalise and create exclusive versions of the various Porsche models. Being part of the company, it has access to all the engineering information as well as the expertise and technology to customise cars individually. From the first custom Porsche 356 in 1950 to the numerous models in today’s range, PEM can make subtle changes or extensive modifications as required by customers.
The 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is one of the special models developed by PEM. Based on the new 992 generation 911 Targa, it has design elements influenced by the 1950s and 1960s. Many of the elements, inside and outside, have been reinterpreted and combined with the latest technology by PEM.
Classic colours and graphics
The Cherry Metallic exterior colour exclusive to the 911 series brings to mind the style of the 1950s in a modern interpretation. Alternatively, two solid colours (Black and Guards Red), a metallic colour (GT Silver Metallic) and a special colour (Crayon) are also available. There are also other colour choices for those who want something that is more unique.
A striking design feature is the ‘Spears’ motorsport graphic on the front wings which are high-quality white livery elements in the shape of a spear. These ‘spears’ recall the early days of Porsche motorsports history, when the racing cars were painted after collisions to hide any marks. Later, the spears were used as a kind of ‘warpaint’ and became one of the first design elements customers used to personalise their vehicles.
There are also motorsport graphics with a historical design on the sides of this special model, conveying a high level of recognition of the 911 Speedster Heritage Design package of 2019. The sporty look can be supplemented by race numbers from 0 to 99 on request.
There’s also gold-coloured lettering at the rear and on the Targa bar, as well as the historic Porsche crest on the wheel hub cover and the bonnet. The Heritage Design Edition comes with 911 Carrera Exclusive Design wheels in high-gloss black (or, optionally, in platinum satin gloss) in 20-inch or 21-inch sizes and black-painted brake calipers with the classic look. Other design features include the Porsche Heritage badge on the luggage compartment grille and silver sports tailpipes.
The 20-inch and 21-inch wheels are designed in the shape of a wing, or cloverleaf, and are reminiscent of the legendary Fuchs wheels that were first used on the 1967 911 S.
Corduroy comeback inside
The snug cabin has brushed aluminium panels bearing the words ‘911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition’ with Heritage Design floor mats as a matching detail. The Bordeaux Red 2-tone leather upholstery and Atacama Beige OLEA club leather (black is also available) were designed exclusively for this edition. Customers can also choose two-tone leather upholstery in Black and Atacama Beige.
Corduroy, a fabric already used in the 356 model, makes a comeback and brings the fashion style of the 1950s back to life. This soft ribbed fabric is used on the centre panels of the seats and in the door panels. The interior appointments are rounded off with perforated Alcantara in Atacama Beige on the headlining and the pillars.
Historical bonds of instruments
The instrument panel with 2 high-resolution 7-inch displays creates historical bonds in various ways. One is the classic pointer on the analogue tachometer. When the engine is started, the colour of the hands and digits changes from white to green. The equally green scale lines are derived from the 356. The clock from the standard Sport Chrono package on top of the instrument panel also has green digits.
Each owner gets the car key painted in the exterior colour and a key pouch made of 2-tone leather, also enhanced with the historical Porsche crest. The leather document folder and the specially designed indoor car cover underline the vehicle’s aim of being a true collector’s item.
Same powertrain as latest 911 Targa
The powertrain, chassis, and driver assistance systems are similar to that found with the latest new 992 generation 911 Targa. It is powered by a 2981 cc 450 ps/630 Nm biturbo 6-cylinder boxer engine which, with the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, can propel the 911 Targa (with Launch Control) from 0 – 100 km/h in less than 3.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 304 km/h, it is claimed.
The 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is now available from Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP). With the sales tax exemption (till the end of 2021), it is priced from RM1,677,409 (excluding insurance).
“We’re bringing back our iconic looks from different eras and proving that Porsche stays true to its roots, even in the age of electrification. The 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition evokes the memories of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and translates these elements into a modern-day sports car that excites Porsche customers through the lifestyle dimensions,” said Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance.
First Classic Partner Centre in Malaysia
“In addition to the arrival of the new 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition, Porsche Centre Johor Bahru will be the first Classic Partner Centre in Malaysia and is scheduled for opening at the end of this year. This will further enhance the customer experience where Porschephiles can now refurbish and upkeep their classic Porsches at this new facility,” Mr. Hunter added.
The Pininfarina Battista hypercar is already very exclusive to start with as only 150 units will be built. Each unit of the electric hyper GT has a starting price of US$2.5 million (about RM10.56 million) but customers are likely to pay much more as they will also want their Battista to be personalised. Naturally, Automobili Pininfarina is prepared for this and has an all-encompassing bespoke personalisation programme. It is something which the company would excel in, having its origins as a famous Italian automobile design house (it is now owned by India’s Mahindra Group).
All customers are invited to have discussions with the design team as part of an in-depth collaborative process. At the production facility is a perfect environment to inspire the creative process as it houses an extensive range of colour and material samples close to the car assembly area. Every element of the hypercar can have bespoke treatment, with clients offered a 360-degree consulting service resulting in a truly unique creation.
Creating a unique collector’s piece
“The Pininfarina name has a storied heritage of individual cars, and the Battista continues this legacy as every vehicle will be truly bespoke by design. Our clients have the unique opportunity to join the Automobili Pininfarina family, immersing themselves in the design process with our talented craftspeople to ensure their vehicle authentically reflects their personality and tastes, created with a truly personal touch,” said Sara Campagnolo, Head of Colour and Materials Design of Automobili Pininfarina. “Clients have the opportunity to drive forward the development of sustainable luxury, whilst creating a unique collector’s piece.”
New York City-inspired
The first bespoke commission is inspired by New York City and features a sophisticated red, white and blue colour theme, led by Exposed Signature Carbonfibre bodywork with Iconica Blu thread, the first application of its kind in the automotive industry.
The car also has Performance Stripes and Pinstripe finished in distinctive Bianco Sestriere metallic – meticulously applied by hand due to the complex shapes of the body panels – with a red Exterior Jewellery Pack elegantly completing the exterior design with a Furiosa Carbon Accent Pack finished in Black Exposed Signature Carbon.
Advanced materials, traditional coachbuilding
Mixing advanced composite materials with traditional coachbuilding techniques, the hand-painted finish for this one-off model will take hundreds of hours of expert attention. For this first unit, the Impulso wheels are finished in Dark Matt Grey with brushed aluminium centre-lock ring anodized in black, matching the black Goccia roof, rear diffuser, rear wing and brushed aluminium headlight engraving.
The luxurious interior provides further scope for personalisation, with everything from the choice of leather and Alcantara to the contrast stitching, Interior Jewellery Pack and fine aluminium interior detailing.
A total of 128 million combinations provides opportunities for clients to reflect their individual tastes, with all clients benefitting from Automobili Pininfarina’s commitment to sustainable luxury. This is evident in the methods used to craft the exquisite materials, such as leather interior elements tanned with olive leaves, a process that reduces the need for harmful chemicals in the creation of every Battista.
The Pilota seats are finished in black leather upholstery with Iconica Blu Alcantara that have navy colour inserts. The exterior theme is carried through to the interior with Iconica Blu stitching with unique red and white cross stitch, red headrest logo and unique white seatbelts, with Iconica Blu thread on the back of the carbon seats. Brushed aluminium detailing is finished in red, subtly referencing the red Exterior Jewellery Pack, with darker details provided by the Interior Jewellery Pack finished in brushed aluminium anodized in black.
56 exterior colour choices
In addition to the selection of 56 exterior paint finishes, Battista owners also have the opportunity to choose exposed carbonfibre bodywork, bespoke paint finishes for the ‘Goccia’ roof, exterior jewellery in the form of anodised finishes or bespoke paint, or a contrasting front end in the customer’s choice of colour. Even the engravings on the Battista chassis plate, located between the seats, can be personalised, along with a custom passenger-side door plate engraving.
The Carbon Accent Pack and Furiosa Carbon Accent Pack are available with a selection of bespoke paint colours or exposed carbonfibre finishes, complemented by the precise Furiosa pinstripe around the extremities of the bodywork. In addition, the mirror caps, rear wing, brake calipers, alloy wheels – both Prezioso and Impulso designs – and centre-lock rings can all be fully customised.
Can outrun a Formula 1 car
The Battista is claimed to be the most powerful car ever designed and built in Italy, with the promise of delivering a level of performance that is unachievable today in any road-legal sportscar using internal combustion engine technology. It will be quicker than a current Formula 1 car with a claimed 0 -100 km/h time of less than 2 seconds, and with 1,900 ps/2,300 Nm output from 4 electric motors. Operating with zero emissions, the Battista’s 120 kWh battery pack is expected to provide a range of over 500 kms when fully charged.
