PHEV Archives

‘The Boss’ gets electrified with the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport

Following on from the launch of the G05 BMW X5 a year ago, BMW Malaysia has now added an electrified variant – the X5 xDrive45e M Sport – to the range. Excluding insurance premium and with the 10% Sales Tax exemption as the model is assembled locally in Kedah, the retail price is RM440,745.

The bestselling model of BMW’s SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) range worldwide, the X5 has accounted for more than 25% of the X range sold in Malaysia with over 3,000 units delivered. The latest electrified variant has the same larger proportions of the current generation which is the fourth X5 since the model line was launched in 1999.

Additionally, it has slim Adaptive LED headlights with BMW Selective Beam and front LED foglights and the M Sport package. This package includes 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Star Spoke style 740 M Bicolour, along with the signature M Sport brake.

Powering the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is a 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with BMW eDrive technology. With a combined maximum output of 394 bhp/ 600 Nm, the new SAV is claimed to have a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 to 100 km/h capability of 5.6 seconds.

Running with just the electric motor, the claimed range can be up to 77 kms on a fully charged lithium-ion battery pack, with a top speed of 135 km/h. With the hybrid powertrain optimising fuel efficiency, the fuel consumption is said to be up to 40 kms/litre.

All X5s have all-wheel drive (except for one variant specifically for the US market) which is provided by BMW’s proven xDrive system. Power delivery first goes through a revised 8-speed Steptronic transmission with enhanced shift dynamics and then to all four wheels with torque distribution according to grip and surface conditions. The X5 xDrive45e M Sport is now also equipped with the 2-axle air suspension on the front and rear axles, maximising its dynamic ability and comfort.

Inside the SAV
The highlight of the X5 xDrive45e M Sport is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant. This infotainment system combines a 12.3-inch Fully Digital Instrument Display with an equally large touchscreen Control Display. Rear passengers have the Rear Seat Entertainment Professional with a 10.2-inch touchscreen monitor.

The cockpit has Vernasca leather upholstery and like other M Sport versions, comes with the M leather-wrapped steering wheel (with electric adjustment) and Sport front seats. 4-zone automatic air conditioning distributes cool air throughout the cabin efficiently while the 464W 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system provides superior sound reproduction.

Depending on how much cargo has to be carried on board, the capacity of the boot can be varied from 500 litres with all seats in use to 1,720 litres at maximum. Automatic operation of the split tailgate with contactless opening and closing functions makes loading easier. The top section can be opened electrically, while the bottom section is released manually.

Advanced driver aids
Next-level driving assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot. This includes the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning. The system also features the Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention as well as information on speed limits.

Additionally, the new SAV is equipped with the intelligent Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera, along with the Reversing Assistant. This makes manoeuvring in and out of a parking spot and also reversing in tight spaces much easier and safer. The Reversing Assistant can also assist to reverse out from a parking spot or tight spaces by taking over the steering.

Colour offerings for this new variant include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey. They are complemented with interior upholstery of Leather ‘Vernasca’ design perforations in black and a fine-wood trim ‘Fineline Stripe’ with brown high-gloss.

2020 BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport — *The X5 xDrive45e M Sport with additional M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories*

As an added option, the exterior appearance can be enhanced with BMW M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories. The items available include a front air inlet, exterior mirror cap, front and rear winglets, and rear diffuser in carbonfibre. Side decals and side skirt films in Frozen Black are also available, as well as wheels in Star Spoke Jet Black Matte.

Buying the new X5
With the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the X5 xDrive45e M Sport can be owned with a monthly instalment plan starting from RM5,028.00 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a 5-year tenure).

Every X5 owner will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes a 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme, 8-Year/160,000-km Battery Warranty (whichever comes first), 2-Year/24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme (for Run Flat Tyres), BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Support, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card, and BMW Service Online.

The X5 xDrive45e M Sport will be in showrooms of all authorised BMW dealerships nationwide from June 20, 2020. Alternatively, from the comfort of the home, interested customers can visit BMW Shop Online for information and to make a booking.

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

BMW Group Malaysia has been a driving force in electrified vehicles for many years. This mirrors its global electrification initiatives not just in products but also in related activities such as battery pack manufacturing. It’s therefore not surprising that many of the BMWs on the roads are electrified, with plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The cost of battery packs replacement has been a concern of many owners who buy hybrids and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Though designed to last a long time, the battery packs might have problems and the cost of replacement can be high as they are specialised and sophisticated units, not like the common small lead-acid battery in the engine bay.

*BMW battery pack is sophisticated and advanced energy storage system, which is why it costs a lot to replace.*

To provide peace of mind to owners, the BMW and MINI brands in Malaysia now offer an extended PHEV battery warranty programme. This new programme extends – by an additional 2 years or 60,000 kms – the existing programme to 8 years or a maximum of 160,000 kms.

*BMW 740LE XDrive – one of the electrified PHEV models in Malaysia*

The New Battery Warranty Programme is also available as an extension via the BMW and MINI Aftersales Upgrade Programmes for the BMW 330e, BMW X5 xDrive 40e, BMW 530e and MINI Countryman PHEV at RM2,200 as well as for the BMW 740Le at RM7,600.

However, this PHEV Battery Warranty Programme is available only from now until December 31, 2020.

Production of High-Voltage Batteries for BMW Hybrid Vehicles underway in Thailand

Volvo S60 T8 now assembled locally, still priced at RM295,888

In view of the Conditional Movement Control Order limiting gatherings, Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) today launched the locally-assembled (CKD) version of the Volvo S60 T8 online. This is essentially a follow-up from the earlier launch in October last year of the CBU (imported completely built-up) model which is now in its third generation.

The model is assembled at Volvo’s own plant in Shah Alam, Selangor, the first vehicle assembly plant in Malaysia. Rather surprisingly, even though the car is assembled locally, the price of RM295,888 (without insurance) is not lower than that of the CBU model (which was said to be ‘under-priced). Normally, the CKD model can be cheaper due to the different taxation rate applied which favours locally-assembled vehicles and the car companies pass on the savings to customers.

For exterior colour choices are available (one less than the CBU model) – Fusion Red (Metallic), Onyx Black (Metallic), Pebble Grey (Metallic) and Crystal White (Pearl). This is one less than what was available with the CBU model, the missing colour being Metallic Birch. A 5-year warranty comes with the car while service intervals are set at 20,000 kms.

The 2020 S60 T8 is pretty much the same as the CBU model, specs-wise, and as assured by VCM, the quality is also similarly high. After all, the plant has also been a regional hub for the Swedish carmaker for some time. It has received investments to upgrade its manufacturing capabilities, including laser welding equipment.

The S60 rides on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform which is used across the current Volvo range. Being modular in concept, SPA allows the engineers to develop a variety of models on the same platform, which saves R&D costs. In the case of the S60 T8, the powertrain is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) which consists of a 2-litre twin-charged (turbocharger + supercharger) 4-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor.

The latter is powered by an 11.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and total system output is 407 bhp/640 Nm, with maximum torque available from 1,200 rpm. Engine power goes to the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission by Aisin while the rear wheels are powered by the electric drive so the S60 has all-wheel drive.

The output numbers suggest brisk performance and indeed, this Volvo has a claimed 0 – 100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h (probably limited). However, because of the PHEV capability, it also uses less fuel and Volvo claims 50 kms/litre which is really quite amazing when you consider the performance. With a 60-litre fuel tank, that means the S60 should be good for 3,000 kms before going empty!

Like other PHEVs, the S60 T8 can run on just the electric motor alone and in this zero emissions mode, it should be able to travel up to 49 kms. Depending on the charging outlet available, recharging the battery pack to full takes around 3 hours.

For the Malaysian market, VCM includes R-Design styling features and accessories to give a sportier image to the S60. The looks are more aggressive with black-out treatment for various elements and dual tailpipes. Like all the latest Volvos, the distinctive ‘Thor’s Hammer’ graphic in the headlights provides instant identification.

The cabin has the typical Scandinavian ambience that Volvo is noted for although the interior colour theme is not light-coloured but dark. The contoured seats are wrapped in exclusive Charcoal Fine Nappa Leather with Open Grid Textile upholstery. The Digital Instrument Cluster with 12.3-inch TFT Adaptive Digital Display is complemented by a Head-Up Display (HUD) which shows important running information on the windscreen ahead of the steering wheel.

An immersive 14-speaker audio system powered by Harman Kardon is part of the Sensus Connect infotainment system. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so smartphones can be easily linked.

An additional feature for the CKD model is the handsfree operation to open the bootlid. This is a nice feature to have and once you have a car with it, you don’t want to not have it in the next car.

Volvo has been a leader in safety and its Intellisafe suite of integrated high-tech systems is adopted in the S60. This includes City Safety with Autobrake technology, which assists the driver in avoiding potential collisions and is the only system in the market to recognise pedestrians, cyclists and large animals. In a world-first for the mid-size sedan segment. City Safety now also engages auto braking to mitigate oncoming collisions.

Volvo S60 safety — *The S60 has Volvo’s Intellisafe suite of driver-assistance systems*.

The Pilot Assist system – which supports the driver with steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 130 km/h – has been upgraded with improved cornering performance. There’s also Run-off Road Mitigation, Oncoming Lane Mitigation and other driver assistance systems, now including Park Assist to make positioning the car in a parking bay much easier.

Click here for other news and articles about Volvo.

More than 15 million Toyota hybrid vehicles have been sold worldwide

During the 1990s, Toyota launched two models that created new market segments almost overnight. The first was the RAV4, which started the small passenger-car based SUV trend but the second was of great significance. It was the Prius, the pioneer of mass-produced hybrid vehicles.

Today, many carmakers have models with hybrid powertrains too and of the many millions on the roads all over the world, over 15 million have been made by Toyota.

Toyota’s decision to develop hybrid electric vehicles started over 25 years ago when Takeshi Uchiyamada (the company’s Chairman today) led a team to develop a car for the 21st century. Concern for the environment was growing, with momentum coming from the Kyoto Protocol to address climate change, which many nations committed to.

“When we launched Prius, no one even knew what a hybrid was but thanks to early adopters, hybrids have ridden a wave of success into the mainstream,” said Mr. Uchiyamada.

Toyota Prius Gen 1 — *First generation of the Prius*

Toyota focussed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions (specifically carbon dioxide) and other harmful pollutants. With more than 15 million hybrids already in use, Toyota believes that it has made a significant contribution to the environment by reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more than 120 million tonnes worldwide to date (compared to sales of equivalent vehicles with internal combustion petrol engines alone).

The first generation of the Prius was launched in 1997 and in the years that followed, more Toyota (as well as Lexus) models gained hybrid powertrains. There are at least 44 models available globally today.

More than a numerical milestone, the continued and increasing use of hybrid powertrains demonstrates the staying power of the technology. It is a mainstream solution to reduce environmental pollution and also consumption of fossil fuel. This achievement builds on the belief that widespread adoption of more environmentally-friendly vehicles can make a significant positive impact worldwide.

Toyota Hybrid — *Some of the Toyota hybrid models available today.*

Hybrid leads to BEV and FCEV
While Toyota believes that hybrid vehicles are an essential part of the future overall mix of electrified vehicles, two decades of electrification experience also feed into the company’s multi-powertrain strategy. The company does not see a ‘one winner takes all’ scenario but a future where the different electrified technologies – hybrids and plug-in hybrids, fuel cell (FCEV) and battery electric (BEV) vehicles – all play a part.

*Hybrid technology is the core technology which can be used in the development of electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHV) fuel cell vehicles. (FCVs)*

As a result of its long hybrid electric vehicle experience, the company has deep transferable expertise in the core electrification technologies which are common across all form of electrified powertrains. Over two decades of continuous development of electric motors, batteries and power control units has taught Toyota how to manage and reuse energy efficiently, providing a range of electrified options for customers.

Toyota hybrid models in Malaysia
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) began selling the Prius when it started its third generation in 2009. Due to the heave taxes on CBU (completely built-up) vehicles, the earlier generations were unable to be attractively priced. However, in 2009, the government provided full import and excise duty exemption of hybrid and electric vehicles which made them more affordable.

The move was to demonstrate Malaysia’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint as well as to help the carmakers introduce hybrid technology to motorists in the country. It was hoped that some companies would then assemble their hybrid models locally.

Toyota Prius — *Third generation of the Prius and Prius c (below) were sold in Malaysia.*

A 4-year period of duty-exemption was given, during which time sales of such vehicles was quite high as their prices were attractive. Besides the Prius, UMWT also imported the smaller Prius c.

Following the withdrawal of the duty-free exemption, the price of the Prius jumped from RM139,900 to RM216,400 while the Prius c which entered the market at RM97,000 rose to around RM153,000. Not surprisingly, sales declined very quickly and imports of the Prius and Prius c ceased. However, Lexus Malaysia continued to offer hybrid variants for its CT, RX and LS models for customers who appreciated the advanced technology.

Four generations of hybrid power and still moving forward with technology

2020 Renault Megane unveiled, with plug-in hybrid variant available for the first time

The Megane has been one of Renault’s more successful models, with 7 million units sold globally since 1995. Over 4 generations, it has come to be a full range and, like the Volkswagen Golf with its GTI, has had a powerful variant in the R.S. line.

For 2020, the range includes a first for Renault in the compact segment – a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It uses technologies developed by the Alliance and the Renault Engineering Department and benefits from the electric-vehicle expertise acquired by Groupe Renault over the last 10 years, as well as its experience in Formula 1 racing.

The New Megane’s exterior design has gained sculpted and more dynamic lines in keeping with the Renault brand identity to offer even more character and sophistication. Its headlights now feature LED Pure Vision technology said to improve and increase the headlamp beam by nearly 30%, offering greater visibility, safety and driving comfort.

The headlamps, tail lights and fog lights are now all LED. The contour lines of the new rear lights have been raised to display a new trim design and the indicators have become dynamic. The New Megane also features a new, more sophisticated lower panel while the design of the wings is more pronounced, and they also feature door-handle lighting.

The revamped and modernised driver’s ‘techno cockpit’ has a new 9.3-inch screen for the multimedia system and a 10.2-inch screen for the dashboard. The 9.3-inch screen provides a display area twice the size of the 7-inch version. This vertical tablet fits perfectly into the dashboard and gives the passenger compartment a very modern look. The Renault EASY LINK multimedia system, inspired by smartphone codes and uses, aims to be more ergonomic, functional and user-friendly.

Renault’s Multi-Sense technology can change the characteristics to one of several different. The driver can choose settings that adjust the engine mapping, steering, ambient lighting and configuration of the digital display that replaces the dials to offer a personalised driving experience

Powertrains
Renault will continue to offer petrol and diesel engines since there will still be demand in many markets outside Europe where internal combustion engines may be preferred. The petrol engine displacement will be the Alliance 1.3 TCe which can be offered in outputs ranging from 115 bhp to 160 bhp. At the end of the year, the New Megane will also be available with the Alliance 1.0 TCe engine with a manual transmission.

The latest Megane Diesel will use a 1.5-litre Blue dCi engine adapted to new anti-pollution standards. Customers have the option of choosing the 95 bhp eco version with a 6-speed manual transmission or the 115 bhp version with a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic transmission.

*2020 Renault Megane E-TECH Plug-in, estate version.*

The highlight is of course the new E-TECH Plug-in hybrid powertrain which combines with a 4-cylinder 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors and uses an innovative multi-mode clutch-less gearbox transmission which optimises gearshifting.

The design draws on the experience of the Renault F1 Team, which shared its energy-management expertise (energy recovered during deceleration and braking is used to recharge the battery outside charging cycles) to enable the New Megane to operate with maximum energy efficiency. It is paired with a braking system developed by Renault’s electric vehicle experts.

The battery pack has an energy capacity of 9.8 kWh (400V) battery which can enable the New Megane to run on full-electric mode for up to 50 kms and up to a top speed of 85 mph (135 km/h), it is claimed.

New driver assistance systems
The New Megane’s driver-assistance systems include the Highway & Traffic Jam Companion, a Level 2 autonomous system that provides comfort and peace of mind while driving. Level 2 autonomous capability has adaptive cruise control (which can vary the speed to maintain a safe gap as well as operate from standstill) and lane-centering or lane-keeping control. It’s available in many cars today and can make driving easier but the driver still needs to pay attention to what is happening.

The New Megane R.S.
The high-performance New Megane R.S. adopts a range centred on the Sport chassis and the same single 300 bhp 1.8-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine as the TROPHY version. Torque has been increased by 30 Nm to 420 Nm on EDC transmission models and 400 Nm on manual transmission models. The exhaust system now includes a mechanical valve to adjust the ‘soundtrack’.

The hallmark features of the Megane R.S are still present, including the 4CONTROL frame for maximum agility in sharp turns and stability in fast curves, and a new R.S. Monitor (optional) which displays many car settings in real time, such as acceleration, braking, steering-wheel angle, 4CONTROL system operation, temperatures and pressures, etc.

The New Megane R.S. TROPHY, a benchmark for ultra-high-performance hatchbacks, is designed for racing. It stands out for its now-exclusive Cup frame; compared with the New Megane R.S.’s Sport chassis, the chassis Cup features a mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential which improves cornering control and driveability when exiting corners. Its shock absorbers and suspension springs have been retuned for increases of 25% and 30% respectively, and the anti-roll bar has a 10% higher setting than on Megane R.S.

Renault Megane R.S. Trophy-R sets new record at Suzuka

Click here to read other news and articles about Renault in PISTON.MY.

All-new SEAT Leon designed to continue as Spain’s bestselling car

SEAT, the Spanish carmaker that is part of the Volkswagen Group, has unveiled the all-new Leon which will have its public launching in Geneva in March. Over 2.2 million units have been sold since it was added to the SEAT range in 1999 and, like the latest Volkswagen Golf 8 and Skoda Octavia 4, it sits on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB Evo platform.

“The SEAT Leon has been improving generation after generation being able to conquer new customers. In 2019, the Leon was the best-selling car for SEAT with more than 150,900 vehicles delivered, as well as being the best-selling car in Spain during the past 5 years,” said SEAT’s Executive Vice-President for Sales & Marketing and CUPRA CEO, Wayne Griffiths. “We have now created the best Leon ever. The new Leon has been designed keeping the ‘created in Barcelona’ spirit and at the same time being the safest, most connected and with the widest range of engines the brand has ever seen. We believe we have all the ingredients to make of the new Leon a great choice not only for private customers but also for corporate fleets.”

2020 SEAT LEON — *The new Leon is available in 5-door hatchback and estate (below) bodystyles.*

Evolutionary approach to design
The exterior design takes an evolutionary approach that enhances the volume and proportions of the vehicle, with the increased wheelbase which translates to 49 mm extra legroom for rear occupants, and length for both the 5-door and the Estate. The form was specifically developed to enhance overall efficiency with improved aerodynamics that have the drag coefficient (Cd) lowered by around 8% compared to the previous generation.

Typical of Spanish design philosophy, the car’s appearance has a lot of personality, with a stronger three-dimensional connection between the grille and headlights together. The headlights are set back, giving it deeper focus while making it instantly recognisable. The body surfaces have evolved, with stronger shapes creating more shift in the light and colour tone across the body, which together create a more elegant design.

The new Leon gets the latest in lighting technology, with the cold white light colour of the LEDs provide superior luminosity of up to 900 lumens, (standard LEDS provide up to 550 lumens), thanks to the packing of 22 LEDs per module. There is integration of all the dipped beam, high beam and daytime running lights. Dynamic indicators more clearly show car’s intended direction of travel when turning, apart from being eye-catching features.

Functionality, minimalism and sleekness
Inside, the evolutionary theme continues with a clear emphasis on functionality, minimalism and sleekness. The smooth-surfaced, slim yet wide dashboard gives the appearance of lightness and appears to float. The effect is created with the help of the decorative mouldings that surround the dashboard and continue through into the front doors.

The cabin has been ergonomically designed to increase comfort, with everything within decluttered, reducing the number of physical buttons to a minimum, with a focus on the main infotainment screen, which includes gesture recognition, providing all key interaction and commands from the occupants.

Interior light is an important feature of the all-new Leon. It includes a wraparound dashboard light that covers its entire width and continues through the doors. It’s not only an ambient decorative light, but it also provides a number of key functions including blind spot detection.

A fully connected car
The Leon is declared as the brand’s first fully connected car, interfacing extensively with the more digitalised world. At the heart of the interior is the SEAT Digital Cockpit which brings together a high-resolution 10.25-inch configurable driver instrument cluster and 10-inch infotainment system. Its ‘diagonal’ graphic design positioning gets inspiration from the Diagonal avenue of Barcelona, the home city of the company. It’s also the first time that the design interface has been created at the new SEAT Digital Lab.

A new voice recognition system enables a natural understanding of language to allow the user to interact with the infotainment system using natural commands, making corrections and referencing previous commands. With the Full Link system, the occupants can connect their smartphones and access their digital data no matter what device they use – either wireless Apple CarPlay (based on Bluetooth or WLAN) or Android Auto using a cabled connection.

The built-in eSIM delivers the eCall service which has been required on all new cars since April 2018. This service directly contacts emergency services should an incident occur. At the same time, the system transmits vital data to the emergency services such as the car’s location (based on GPS data), engine type, and number of passengers.

Car2X connectivity is a cloud-based technology that enables drivers to receive advanced warning on the status of upcoming traffic lights or an incident on a motorway further up the road, with traffic information appearing in real-time on the screen.

Wide range of powertrains
Besides petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI) engines, customers can also have mild-hybrid (eTSI) and plug-in hybrid (eHybrid) powertrains. Transmissions available are both 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG (direct shift gearbox) transmission. The DSG automatic transmission now benefits from shift-by-wire technology. The system is designed so that the gear selector is no longer mechanically connected to the gearbox, instead using electronic signals to indicate a shift.

The petrol engines are all direct-injection, turbocharged units with outputs between 110 ps and 190 ps. These include a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder unit as well as a 1.5-litre TSI 4-cylinder unit. Both engines use a Miller-cycle combustion process and variable geometry turbocharger to ensure performance and efficiency, as does the integrated Active Cylinder Management.

There are 2 diesel powertrain options, both 2.0 litre TDI units, with outputs of 115 ps and 150 ps. The turbodiesel engines introduce a new Selective Catalytic Reduction system that includes dual AdBlue injectors to significantly reduce NOx emissions compared to previous generation diesel engines.

As for the Mild Hybrid (eTSI) powertrains, these employ the 1.0 TSI and 1.5 litre TSI petrol engines which are mated to a 48V starter-generator, with energy from a lithium-ion battery pack. The car can coast (no pedal input from the driver) with the engine switched off (while retaining all key electric functions, such as power steering), harvest energy under deceleration and provide electrical torque assistance during acceleration.

The eHybrid variant is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and this uses a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with the electric motor, a 13-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and 6-speed DSG transmission. The system output is 204 ps and recharging a totally empty battery pack to 100% is said to take less than 3.5 hours. The PHEV Leon can run on electric power only with a claimed range of 60 kms.

Highly-developed assistance systems
The latest Leon is the safest vehicle the brand has ever developed, the carmaker declares. The safety systems see more of its surroundings and react to obstacles on the road or sudden movements by other drivers, thanks to the integration of a suite of updated and completely new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The new technologies continually sense the environment to offer the optimum protection whatever the scenario.

Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (PACC) and Emergency Assist 3.0 protect the vehicle and its occupants while driving or stationary. PACC uses feeds from GPS data delivered from the navigation system and input from the front-mounted camera and Traffic Sign Recognition, allowing it to proactively adjust the cruising speed depending on the road layout ahead (bends, roundabouts, junctions, changes in speed limits and built-up areas). This reduces the requirement for driver input and also sudden speed changes and manoeuvres.

Production of the new model has started at the SEAT factory but prices are unlikely to be announced till March. However, like Skoda, SEAT products would be slightly cheaper than equivalent Volkswagen models.

Modernism-inspired camouflage used to disguise new SEAT model

Record-breaking results in 2019 for Volvo, thanks to its SUV models

Volvo Cars was rather late in adding a SUV to its range, with its first model – the XC90 – launched only in 2002. The reason given for the delay was that it wanted to offer a SUV only when it could address known safety issues (like the effect on a tall body on handling) and resolve them. It had a strong reputation for safety, on which the brand’s strength grew, and it was not going to lose that. The XC90 certainly proved to be a SUV with innovative safety features like Roll-Over Protection which worked to counteract the risk of tipping over during hard cornering.

Volvo XC90 2002 — Volvo’s first SUV – the XC90 – was launched in 2002 after the carmaker addressed safety issues with innovations like Roll-Over Protection that reduced the risk of the tall SUV tipping over during hard cornering.

Like the other carmakers, Volvo Cars gave increasing attention to SUVs, expanding its range as the segment grew. 17 years later, its SUVs have helped the company gain market share in China, the USA and Europe amid stagnating car markets.

More significantly, in 2019, the Swedish carmaker set a new, sixth consecutive global sales record, breaking the 700,000-unit level for the first time in its 93-year history. 705,452 Volvo vehicles were delivered worldwide last year, an increase of 9.8% compared to 2018, solidly outgrowing the overall market across all regions.

During the past few years, Volvo has also been moving towards electrification of its range. It aims for plug-in hybrid models to make up 20% of total sales this year. Overall, Volvo sold 45,933 plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2019, an increase of 22.9% compared to 2018 and more than double the number in 2017.

Illustrating the strength of its portfolio and its sales performance in 2019, Volvo surpassed the previous full-year sales record of 642,253 cars, set in 2018, nearly a full month before the end of the year. December was the company’s best ever sales month, with a 23.4% year-on-year increase to 74,239 cars sold.

Sales by markets
In China, home of Volvo’s parent company, the brand sold 154,961 cars in 2019, an increase of 18.7% compared to 2018 and comfortably outperforming the overall market. The result was an all-time record for Volvo in China and the highest sales number it has ever reached in a single market.

*Volvo Cars manufacturing plant in China*

In the USA, a market that has usually been Volvo’s strongest customer, the 100,000-unit threshold was crossed for the first time since 2007 when 108,234 vehicles were registered by December 31. Compared to 2018, the sales increase was 10.1%.

European sales were particularly strong in Germany, where the company sold more than 50,000 vehicles for the first time in its history, while it achieved its best sales result since 1990 in the UK. Other markets that recorded their best ever sales performance in the company’s history included Australia, Belgium, Brazil, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Korea, Poland and Portugal.

Sales by models
The XC60 SUV continued to be the best-selling model for the company globally, followed by the XC40 and XC90 SUVs. Sedans and stationwagons remained popular, adding to volume growth in China and Europe, respectively.

Volvo XC40 Recharge P8 — *The first Recharge model shares styling with the XC40 but is powered only by an electric motor.*

The company will introduce its Recharge line-up in markets around the globe. Recharge will be the umbrella name for all chargeable Volvos with a fully electric and plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Recharge car line aims to further boost sales of Volvo Cars’ chargeable cars and encourage plug-in hybrid drivers via incentives to use Pure mode as much as possible.

Every Volvo model already includes a Recharge option, from the XC40 SUV via the 60-Series cars to the large XC90 SUV flagship. Volvo is the only carmaker to offer a plug-in variant on every model in its line-up, with a fully-electric model – the XC40 Recharge P8 – to appear in showrooms in due course.

Volvo Cars and Geely to merge engine operations to create stand-alone business

2020 Hyundai IONIQ gets better electric performance

When Hyundai Motor was developing its IONIQ model, it took a ‘safe’ approach by engineering the car to have multiple powertrain choices. At launch in 2016, it was available with either a hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or pure electric powertrain. The move would allow the IONIQ to be sold in more different markets depending on the recharging infrastructure available.

It’s now been three years that the IONIQ has been in global markets and an updated version has been released. Apart from the usual cosmetic changes and feature enhancements, the significant change is in the all-electric powertrain’s performance.

Better electric performance
The battery pack now has 36% more energy capacity which enables the car to travel up to 273 kms before it runs out of volts. There’s a standard 7.2-kW on-board charger for Type 2 AC charging; using a 100-kW fast-charging station, the battery can reach 80% charge within 54 minutes. The IONIQ Electric’s e-motor generates 134 ps/295Nm.

The 2020 IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ PHEV continue to use a 1.6-litre GDI 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 104 ps/148 Nm. The IONIQ Hybrid’s permanent magnet electric motor can generated 32 kW/169 Nm, powered by a lithium-ion-polymer battery with 1.56 kWh of capacity positioned under the rear seats.

The PHEV’s electric motor generates 45 kW/169 Nm, powered by an 8.9 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery. Total system output for the IONIQ Hybrid can be up to 139 ps with a maximum of 264 Nm of torque. The IONIQ PHEV offers a higher total system output of 156 ps and 264 Nm of torque. Drivers using the IONIQ PHEV can expect to travel at least 47 kms on just electric power alone with the fully-charged 8.9 kWh battery pack.

A Predictive Energy Management system, which manages charging and discharging of the battery in uphill and downhill situations to maximize battery usage. When a lack of battery state-of-charge is predicted driving uphill, the IONIQ PHEV and Hybrid increase internal-combustion engine operation to charge the battery. When a sufficient battery state-of-charge is reached during downhill driving, e-motor intervention increases to minimize fuel consumption and further energy is simultaneously recovered through regenerative braking.

Taking a cue from its similarly innovative Kona Electric, the latest IONIQ Electric adopts 1-pedal driving capability, allowing the driver to stop the car by simply holding onto the left paddle shift lever with often no need to engage the braking pedal. This maximizes the use of regenerative braking technology. Using Smart Regenerative Braking, the level of energy recuperation is automatically adjusted depending on the road incline and traffic situation in front when coasting.

SmartSense safety
All 2020 IONIQ models sold in North America will be equipped with a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense technology package. This driver assistance system constantly monitors the environment around the car alerting drivers to potential hazards while on the road. This system includes standard Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, High Beam Assist and a Drivers Attention Warning. There are also new segment first features like Highway Driving Assist and Lane Following Assist to make long trips less stressful and more comfortable.

Eco-conscious materials
A key characteristic of the IONIQ line is its innovative use of recycled or ecologically-sensitive materials. The interior door covers are made of plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone while providing the same quality appearance of typical materials but reducing weight by 20%. The softer, more natural feel is achieved along with less reliance on oil-based products.

Raw materials extracted from sugar cane are partly applied on the headliner and cargo area. In fact, sugar cane accounts for 25% of the raw materials used. Paint with renewable ingredients extracted from soybean oil is used to achieve lustrous metallic colours on key components.

Currently, only the IONIQ Hybrid is sold in Malaysia and local assembly at the Inokom plant in Kedah keeps its price down. Presumably, the updated version will be available next year as the model sells reasonably well with a price just under RM100,000.

Hyundai Ioniq Receives Full 5-Star Asean NCAP Safety Rating

Vision T concept may be a preview of the next Hyundai Tucson

In recent times, Hyundai has been using an evolving design language that maintained an overall familiarity. It’s referred to as ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ and has been applied globally. The design language is still evolving and is shown in the seventh model in a series of Hyundai Design Centre concepts – the Vision T Plug-in Hybrid SUV Concept.

The SUV concept, likely to be a preview of the next generation of the Tucson (the ‘T’ may be the clue), has a matte-green exterior finish and is powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain indicating its eco-lifestyle focus and inherent balance with the environment in which it is driven.

2019 Hyundai Tucson 3rd generation — *Current Tucson which is in the third generation.*

Two derivative sub-themes
Two derivative sub-themes of the dynamism fundamental design concept are ‘Parametric Fantasy’ and ‘Transcendent Connectivity’. In these sub-themes, all parametric surfaces are connected from the body to either light or trim features. It features seamless connectivity free from distinct design boundaries.

Ambient light reflects off these concave and convex lines creating an extreme sense of tension. Charisma is added with the evolution of a Hidden Signature Lamp derived from the Le Fil Rouge and Grandeur Face Lift.

Parametric Air Shutter Grille Design
At higher speeds, the Parametric Air Shutter is an original developmental feature that actively adjusts both aerodynamics and design appearance. When stationary, the grille is closed and static. Once in motion, each individual cell of the grille design continues to move in a prescribed sequence, creating a truly dynamic forward stance. This dynamic character includes the functional effect of controlling airflow to the powertrain, optimizing aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.

The 4.6-metre long Vision T’s side profile conveys a continual sense of speed and forward motion. The long bonnet and level roofline coupled with a long wheelbase and short overhangs reflect a ready-for-anything dynamic character. In contrast to prevailing compact SUV designs, the Vision T uses crisp geometric angles and edges to create a striking contrast between a sleek silhouette and masculine wedge lines.

The side window design is ultra-clean and seamless, with a futuristic frameless daylight opening and a satin chrome garnish. The oversize satin chrome alloy wheels feature ample voided area with dark orange brake calipers visible within the split-5-spoke wheel design. The beveled sides of the wheel spokes feature a matte-gray finish descending into the voided areas, highlighting the brilliance of the satin chrome spoke faces.

From above, a special glass pattern is embossed within the roof glass structure. These dynamic effects carry into the Hyundai logo design. The H design is dark chrome; when illuminated it is enhanced with a bright green and deep red hue for sharper dimensionality.

Integrated Hidden Signature Headlamp
When the powertrain is started, the dark-chrome matte hue of the integrated hidden signature headlamp system features a half-mirror system that has a chromium appearance which transforms into functional lighting on demand. The designers have elevated the appeal of luminous parametric design through hidden DRLs, while the hidden signature lamp represents the next generation of this Hyundai design innovation.

The sequenced lighting theme carries through to the rear of the vehicle, demonstrated when the powertrain is shut down and the rear tail lamps and Hyundai logo follow a prescribed light extinguishing sequence, with the Hyundai logo as the last of the rear lighting signature to cease illumination.

The charging port for the battery pack is located on the passenger side rear quarter panel and features a sliding cover. When charging, ‘Blue Drive’ is illuminated, indicating the system is actively charging. The battery state of charge is also visually indicated externally in a metered, circular light cluster, creating a complete circle appearance when fully charged.

(more…)

Piston.my

PHEV

‘The Boss’ gets electrified with the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport

BMW Group Malaysia extends BMW and MINI PHEV battery pack warranties

Volvo S60 T8 now assembled locally, still priced at RM295,888

More than 15 million Toyota hybrid vehicles have been sold worldwide

2020 Renault Megane unveiled, with plug-in hybrid variant available for the first time

All-new SEAT Leon designed to continue as Spain’s bestselling car

Record-breaking results in 2019 for Volvo, thanks to its SUV models

2020 Hyundai IONIQ gets better electric performance

Vision T concept may be a preview of the next Hyundai Tucson

2020 Karma Revero GTS – the sports PHEV you want

Lamborghini Urus SE: The First Plug-in Hybrid Super SUV

The New Peugeot 5008 – EV, Hybrid and Petrol Variants, 21-Inch Display!

Mitsubishi Pajero Akan Membuat Kemunculan Kembali sebagai PHEV?

Mitsubishi Pajero to Make a Comeback as a PHEV?

BMW I16: The Successor to the i8 That Never Came to Be

BMW Memperkenalkan 5 Series Touring Generasi Keenam: Varian ICE, EV dan PHEV

BMW Unveils Next-Generation 5 Series Touring: ICE, EV and PHEV Variants

New BMW X5 xDrive50e M Sport Pricing Officially Revealed: RM486,800!

BMW Malaysia Memperkenalkan X5 xDrive50e M Sport Yang Dipasang Di Malaysia

Toyota Memperkenalkan Crown Sport PHEV Di Pasaran Jepun

Archive

myTukar Renames to Carro to Reflect Global Ambitions

Pagani Alisea Concept: A Beautiful Tribute to the Zonda

Nissan Confirms Next-Generation GT-R and Z Sports Cars

Berjaya Group Eyes Toll Plaza Transformation with Barrier-Free System Bid

Be the Next Bond: Revamped Aston Martin Vantage Now in Malaysia from RM2.37 Million

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube

The Piston Show