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2019 Alfa Romeo Tonale SUV concept becomes a production model

With its low volumes, Alfa Romeo has struggled for many years and relied on the loyalty of the alfisti to keep it around. Heritage can only go so far in modern business, but Alfa Romeo has usually survived to continue its business. Now under the Stellantis Group, it will have some more breathing space with access to considerable shared resources that will allow one new model to be launched every year during this decade.

It’s been a while since we saw a really new model from Alfa Romeo and the new Tonale is something that has taken almost 3 years to go into production. A concept was shown at the 2019 Geneva Auto Show with a plan to put it in showrooms in a few years. By the time Stellantis came into the picture, the development would have been too far ahead to stop or change, so in 2022, it has its global debut although many markets may only get it in 2023.

The Tonale has compact dimensions which means it will do battle in the most competitive area of the SUV segment. While said to remain true to its DNA of Italian sportiness, it also marks the metamorphosis of the brand as it starts a new era of connectivity and electrification.

Concept car inspiration
Much of the design draws on the concept car shown in Geneva which contained many classic Alfa Romeo stylistic features, reinterpreted in the name of modernity. The sides are notable for their extended curve below the waistrail, known as the ‘GT Line’, which runs from the rear to the headlights, giving definition to the car’s body and its profile. In terms of the modelling, its full volumes and sensuality are reminiscent of models such as the 8C Competizione.

At the front, the new floating ‘Scudetto’ shield is no longer a part of the bumper but a distinctive element on its own. The lower part includes two main side air intakes which together with the shield create what is known as the ‘Trilobo’.

The eye-catching ‘3+3’ headlights are inspired by the SZ Zagato and the Proteo concept car. These lights adopt a new full-LED adaptive matrix and provide daylight, dynamic turn signals and a ‘welcome and goodbye’ feature. They also have adaptive capabilities to maximize illumination without dazzling other drivers, with a third module automatically activated when turning corners to expand the lighting laterally.

At the rear too, the light units are strong elements that for a visual signature for the Tonale. The roundness and, now classic, fold in the lower centerline shape of the rear window characterizes the SUV’s upper rear volume in a sporty yet elegant way evoking iconic cars like the 8C Competizione where the daylight opening, the edges of the side windows and the top of the rear window meet.

The ‘teledial’ alloy wheels that were received positive feedback when shown on the concept car have also been adopted on the production model. This is the reworking of the perforated telephone dial theme, the result of an evolution that began in the 1960s with the 33 Stradale. Over time, the perforations have gradually been increased in size and becoming more closely related to needs for brake cooling, lightness and resistance.

Driver-centric cabin
As would be expected, this is an SUV but the racing heritage of Alfa Romeo is not ignored. Everything is driver-centric, with the diagonal tunnel, slightly undulating dashboards and instruments facing the driver. The characteristic elements of the new model include the telescopic instrument panel, with its clear Alfa Romeo stylistic matrix, and the compact steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles.

The new D.N.A. driving mode selector, slim central air conditioning vents and external turbine shaped vents, the central tunnel and handles are embellished with a diamond texture inspired by precision mechanical processing with laser engraving. The dashboard also includes an insert with a backlight effect so when the panel is off, a graphic appears. The same 3D features can be seen in the seat fabrics, from the basic versions all the way to the gradient effect with contrasting background colour.

Powertrain choices
Depending on the market, electrified powertrains or combustion engines (or both) will be offered. The front-wheel drive hybrid powertrain has a new 4-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine with a Variable-Geometry Turbocharger, and a 48V 15-kW electric motor. Besides two output levels – 130 ps and 160 ps – there’s also a 275 ps plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Q4 version with all-wheel drive that will have a claimed electric range of up to 80 kms.

The new 7-speed TCT dual-clutch transmission enables start-up and travel in only electric mode at low speeds and when parking and cruising, subject to battery levels. A full battery recharge is said to take 2.5 hours when using a 7.4kW fast charger.

Some markets will still be able to get good old powertrains with just combustion engines. There will be Tonale variants with a 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine as well as a 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine.

The driving dynamics of Alfa Romeos have always been much appreciated and respected, and even with an SUV, these cannot be compromised. One element that contributed to ensuring this is the optimally balanced weight distribution between the two axles. This required special management of mass and materials, which was done both by working on the car’s layout and by placing all the heavier components as centrally as possible.

The Tonale has an Integrated Brake System (IBS), an innovative electromechanical system that combines stability control with conventional servo brakes. Said to be an industry first, the integration between electronics and mechanics, significant weight optimization, optimal feeling and the total absence of pedal vibrations can guarantee the system instantaneous brake response. The fixed calipers are from Brembo, with four pistons and self-ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear.

The Dual Stage Valve electronic suspension provides a choice between performance and comfort. Developed in conjunction with Alfa Romeo’s long-standing technology partner Marelli, the electronic shock absorbers feature a special electro-actuated valve within the shock absorber that provides independent damping curves for 2 modes (Comfort and Sport).

New ADAS systems
The Tonale is equipped with new Alfa Romeo Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for Level 2 autonomous driving, which means that the vehicle can automatically handle acceleration, braking and staying within a lane while maintaining driving safety. However, the driver still needs to be alert and involved, though to a lesser degree which can reduce fatigue on long journeys.

In the event that the driver loses concentration or even falls asleep, there are features like Autonomous Emergency Braking which will activate the brakes if the driver does not react to alerts. The Drowsy Driver Detection system constantly analyses the vehicle’s movements to detect any characteristics which indicate driver fatigue. Once a certain threshold has been exceeded, the system emits beeps and/or visual warnings, recommending the driver stop for a break.

Connectivity with Amazon
Connectivity in a car today is more than just being able to connect a smartphone to the infotainment system. It now encompasses being able to connect to the rest of the world and a major new feature in the Tonale is the built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant. Where it is available, Secure Delivery Service can set the vehicle as the place to deliver Amazon packages. The doors can be unlocked, and the courier can leave them inside the vehicle. Updates on vehicle status can also be received at home so it will be possible to know the battery charge level and other information. Alexa can also be used to search for nearby restaurants or even adjust lights or heating connected to the home automation system.

NFT for a car
In a world exclusive, the Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology. Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the ‘blockchain card’ concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle. Upon the customer’s consent, the NFT will record vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used as a guarantee of the car’s overall status, with a positive impact on its residual value. On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on.

Volvo V60 Recharge T8 – economy of a PHEV, versatility of a SUV and comfort of a sedan

Before SUVs appeared, the stationwagon was the ideal multi-purpose vehicle to haul a lot of stuff. Sedan-like but stretched a bit to have a big boot space, it was as low as a sedan and just as comfortable. Volvo, which had been making stationwagons since 1953 when it introduced the Duett, became a leader in the stationwagon segment in the 1980s, especially in Europe where its models were popular.

The Duett had been conceived as a vehicle which could be used for work as well as for family use, so it was the original dual-purpose vehicle (a term which came into use in the early 1980s when the first 4x4s like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Isuzu Trooper were introduced). The success of the Duett encouraged the Swedish carmaker to continue making such cars and in the years that followed, it would always have a stationwagon variant of the prevailing model series. Malaysian motorists will remember the police using Volvo stationwagons in the 1970s and then the 850 stationwagon in the 1990s for highway patrol work.

And although in the 21^st century, it has been selling more SUVs than sedans and stationwagons, the company has assured stationwagon fans that it will continue to offer such models in future. These will be alternatives to the SUV and crossover ranges and will eventually be fully electric. They are currently designated as S and V models although these may change as the future models will have more aerodynamic forms. Volvo had originally wanted to designate its stationwagons as ‘F’ – for ‘Family’ – when it launched the first V40. However, Ferrari sent a note of protest and said that a ‘F40’ would mislead people into thinking of the sportscar made by the Italian carmaker which had the designation. So Volvo switched to ‘V’, which it said meant ‘Versatility’.

In the US market, which has been a huge consumer of Volvo stationwagons for decades, some of the models are no longer being sold (which led to the rumour of Volvo stopping stationwagons altogether). However, the company will still sell some versions of the current models and in Malaysia, the latest V60 Recharge T8 has just gone on sale with a price of RM287,474 for the Inscription version (the only one available).

This is an electrified PHEV model with a plug-in hybrid Drive-E powertrain. There is a turbocharger and supercharger which boost output to 320 bhp/400 Nm, to which is added the output of an electric motor that can generate up to 407 ps/640 Nm. A lot of power to all 4 wheels which provides effortless cruising even when the 519-litre boot is fully loaded.

As a PHEV, the V60 Recharge T8’s battery pack can be recharged from an external power source rather than just being recharged while on the move. The time for recharging varies depending on the type of charging used. If from a normal household power socket, each hour of charging can provide 7 to 14 kms but if using DC fast-charging 150 kW station, then in 10 minutes, the battery pack can ‘fill up’ for up to 100 kms of range at a 150 kW station. Shell recently started operations of a DC fast-charging station at its station near Tangkak in Johor and will establish a network of 12 stations along the North-South Expressway.

With a fully charged battery pack, it can travel a claimed 49 kms on just electric power but in normal driving, the system will be continuously varying the use of the two power sources for optimum efficiency. Unlike a fully electric powertrain which will come to a standstill if the battery pack is empty, a PHEV like the V60 Recharge T8 will still be able to run using its petrol engine.

As for the design, the V60 Recharge T8 maintains the sleek form which has been around since the days when Peter Horbury, the company’s former design head, declared that ‘we kept the toys and threw out the box’ as he introduced the C70 coupe in 1996. Thereafter, Volvo stationwagons no longer looked like boxes on wheels and had a streamlined profile that added elegance.

The interior too is what you would expect of a Volvo with their Scandinavian ambience and focus on functionality. These days, the emphasis is on using sustainable materials and ensuring that the cabin air is as clean as possible. And although the environment is like that of a premium sedan, there is still the versatility of a SUV with rear seats that fold down and extend the length of the boot.

“The addition of the Volvo V60 Recharge T8 as a PHEV brings Volvo another step forward in our electrification strategy. We are one step closer to realising our aspirations in having a fully electric line-up by 2030 as we move further into a more sustainable future,” said Charles Frump, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.

China to end subsidies for New Energy Vehicles after 2022

There were electric vehicles 100 years ago; in fact, even Henry Ford’s wife, Clara, drove and electrically-powered car because it was easy to start and had no transmission. However, battery technology at that time was not advanced and poor performance made electric cars unappealing, allowing cars with internal combustion engines to grow and then dominate the planet. With poor interest in electric cars, the manufacturers stopped developing them and would not consider them again till the 21^st century.

During the 100 years, many technological advances have been made and in the past 20 years especially, battery technology – an important element for electric vehicles (EVs) – has advanced greatly. The incentive to accelerate technological development has been the tightening of emission regulations, especially in the more developed nations, which has forced carmakers to start switching to emission-free powertrains. There is urgency as well due to climate change, with exhaust emissions of motor vehicles being identified as one of the causes.

The technology and manufacturing processes for the internal combustion engine (ICE) have been developed over more than 100 years so production costs have stabilized and as volumes grew, economies of scale kept pushing the costs down. EV technology is relatively young and the volume of EVs has not reached a point where economies of scale have fully kicked in. As such, the technologies – which are still evolving and advancing – are still expensive and EVs equivalent to ICE vehicles are still more expensive.

In order for EVs to be adopted by more people, the auto industry expects governments to help. Obviously, funding cannot be provided directly but the prices to buyers can be offset by subsidies. The lowering of retail prices can then attract motorists to consider them, while other elements like infrastructure and performance continue to get better.

Many countries have subsidies for EV buyers and the nature of the subsidy varies. Typically, there is a fixed sum provided based on the price although in Malaysia, from this year, the government has decided to exempt battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from duties and other taxes and even the annual roadtax will not be charged. It’s a bold move but it does not necessarily bring prices down below RM100,000 so a large segment of the population will still not find it easy to buy one. And there is no point using the argument of ‘saving the planet’ because many Malaysians today have to save themselves and their families from financial difficulties, so they certainly won’t care to pay more for their car.

China, as the world’s largest car market, has had an incentive program since 2009 when it introduced subsidies for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), ie BEVs, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). The NEV program actually began in the 1980s but the incentive policy only began in 2009, with nationwide adoption from 2013. To qualify for subsidies, the vehicles must meet minimum technical and performance requirements, and the size of the subsidy is indexed to a variety of vehicle specifications and utility parameters. Every few years, the qualification criteria have been tightened, forcing manufacturers to push their technology further.

*As qualification criteria for subsidies tightened during the past decade, the manufacturers had to keep improving their EV technologies.*

By the end of 2020, the NEV push had resulted in 4.92 million NEVs being put on China’s roads, or 1.75% of the vehicle population. The number almost meets the 5 million target set in 2013 and having reached this level, the government now believes that acceptance has been achieved and NEVs are in the mainstream of the car market. This year NEVs are expected to account for 18% of all vehicle sales in China (13% greater than in 2019) and add another 5 million NEVs according to industry forecasts.

*With this year being the final year that EVs will be subsidised, there should be increased interest and higher sales in China.*

And with that target achieved, it has now decided that subsidies can be phased out completely. In fact, in April 2020, there was already an indication of this when it was announced that subsidies would be reduced by 20% in 2021. This year, the cut will be 30%, after which there will be no more subsidies provided from January 1, 2023.

The subsidies have typically applied to vehicles costing less than RMB300,000 (about RM197,130). A typical subsidy has been around RMB18,000 (about RM11,800), and in 2022, it will fall to around RMB14,400 (about RM9,500).

*Tesla Model 3 was among the best-selling NEVs in China last year.*

The domestic carmakers have already reached large volumes that allow them to have economies of scale. BYD, an early EV manufacturer, was already doing over 753,000 EVs in 2019, second after world leader Tesla which sold 900,000 EVs.

The new Mercedes-Benz S 580 e S-Class (W223)

As the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz range, the S-Class has typically been the centerpiece of the brand. Each generation since the W 187 of 1951 has introduced new technologies, advancing safety, performance, comfort and quality. The pioneering technologies have influenced automotive engineering of its era, eventually trickling down as they became more affordable.

More than 4 million S-Class limousines have been delivered worldwide since the early 1970s when the ‘S-Class’ designation was used. Over 18,000 of those have been sold in Malaysia, where the model has been assembled locally for the past few generations. Assembled under contract in earlier years, the model has been assembled at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s own production facility in Pekan, Pahang, since 2007.

Today, the seventh generation of the model – also assembled at the Pekan plant – arrives in the market, a bit over a year after it made its global debut in Germany. Only one version is current offered – the S 580e – which is a long-bodied version. The price could not be confirmed in time for the launch although it will be more than the previous generation, according to Michael Jopp, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. He added that first deliveries will start from mid-January, but the waiting period is already stretched to the end of the first quarter of 2022.

‘580’ doesn’t mean 5.8 litres
The number of the model designations of many of today’s German cars no longer indicate displacement or cylinders as they once did. For instance, with the old 380SE, at least you knew the engine size was 3.8 litres. But with the new ‘580’, it is not 5.8 litres and the engine is actually an in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine of 3 litres and it is part of a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV) with an electric motor.

The engine’s output is 367 bhp/270 kW with 500 Nm of torque available between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, while the motor generates 110 kW with 440 Nm that comes on almost instantaneously. The combined output can propel the S 580e from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 5.2 seconds and up to a top speed of 250 km/h. If conditions permit, it is possible to run only on electricity for up to 100 kms. When the battery is empty, ‘refuelling’ will take up to 2.5 hours, depending on the charging method.

Hybrid powertrains are not new to Mercedes-Benz models in Malaysia and the company has sold them, even in the S-Class, some time. One concern owners have is the cost of the battery pack if it needs to be replaced as it is pretty expensive. But for the first 8 years or a maximum of 100,000 kms, Mercedes-Benz will provide warranty coverage which should offer some peace of mind.

Showcase for new technologies
As with every generation before, the new S-Class brings with it new and advanced technologies. One of them is DIGITAL LIGHT, which emanates from each headlamp. The light module has 3 extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, allowing highly precise light distribution.

DIGITAL LIGHT also makes Highbeam Assist over 100 times more precise than 84-pixel light when excluding oncoming traffic or road signs from the light beam. Light/shadow graduations and the light distribution of all the other adaptive light functions are also realised with considerably more precision, optimising illumination in all ambient lighting conditions.

The aerodynamic efficiency is also very impressive, considering the size of the car. It is 0.22 Cd, which is one of the lowest figures in the world for a production sedan. The lower wind resistance of the shape means more power can be used to move the car, something that is highly beneficial with hybrid and electric powertrains. This has been achieved by lengthy wind tunnel research and then applying aerodynamic measures to various areas of the body, underbody and detachable parts.

Not visible are improvements in aeroacoustics; the new model’s quietness is said to be even better than the e previous generation which already excelled with a very high level of interior noise comfort. The high rigidity of the bodyshell provides the basis for this achievement, and is enhanced with fine-tuning.

Some examples are the apertures for the cable grommets in the firewall which have double seals, effectively stopping noise from the engine bay seeping through. To achieve an engine sound that is perceived as refined and unobtrusive in the interior, the firewall insulation has been extended into the side areas of the A-pillars and the floor area. Acoustic foam in certain bodyshell sections is also used for the first time.

Even with local assembly, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia follows the brand’s global policies to promote sustainability. This is possible as environmental aspects were already taken into account in the conceptual phase. More than 98 kg of components, derived from resource-conserving materials, are used in the S-Class. The number of components containing recyclates is now 120 – more than twice as many as in the preceding model. Another 40 kgs or so are made from renewable raw materials.

‘Third place’ lounge-like interior
The S-Class, with its limousine proportions, has always offered its occupants comfortable travel in a relaxing environment. With the new generation, the interior has fully evolved into a ‘third place’, a refuge between the home and workplace which many spend a lot of time in (at least in the pre-pandemic days when travel to and from office was the daily norm).

As with all Mercedes-Benz models in recent times, MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is a highlight. Interestingly, it was one of the few significant new technologies that did not start in the S-Class but in the new A-Class launched in 2018. Since then, it has continued to evolve and gain more sophistication.

The second generation of this learn-capable system now debuts in the new S-Class. The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation have become far more extensive, especially in the rear. Both the hardware and software have made great advancements with brilliant displays on up to 5 large screens (in part with OLED technology). The new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time – a real 3-dimensional effect without having to wear 3D glasses.

Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions. As well as enhancing operating convenience, MBUX Interior Assist improves safety. Even before the journey begins, it notifies the driver if the camera has detected a child seat on the front passenger seat but the seatbelt is not fastened, for example.

The system now has a fingerprint scanner just below the central display which unlocks access more conveniently, yet securely, than entering a PIN. Also available is the MBUX Augmented Reality Navigation which connects the virtual world with the real world. The technology incorporates graphical navigation instructions and traffic information into live images to ensure drivers will reach safely and stress-free,

The voice assistant ‘Hey Mercedes’ is constantly learning, by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions (like accepting a call) can be performed even without using ‘Hey Mercedes’ which, incidentally, can also be activated from the rear.

Revolution in interior design
Just as with introducing new technologies to the car, the interior designers have also strived to create a revolutionary interior design, including associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. The systematic reduction in the number of controls underscores the minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth.

The driver display and media display offer a comprehensive aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be individualized with a choice of four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service). New design elements include the flat, 4-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles, rather than the sportier turbine-like vents in other models.

Besides 5 screens, other highlights in the cabin include large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear. These flow around the passengers and are a systematic further development of the wrap-around effect. The Anthracite open-pore poplar wood trip lends the interior an individual look.

Even in the seats, Mercedes-Benz has made such they qualify as technological benchmarks for long-distance comfort. The complex technology inside the seats uses multiple motors for adjustments in the tiniest dimension. The flowing, 3-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness with its nappa leather upholstery. The adjustment range and angle of the front passenger seat in the chauffeur configuration and the reclining seat behind it have been improved as well.

Thanks to LED technology, the new S-Class has also taken a leap forward in its interior lighting with interactive interior lighting for the first time. The active ambient lighting supplements ambient lighting with an additional layer of light. It is integrated into the driving assistance systems, and is able to reinforce alerts visually. This also makes corresponding feedback possible for the comfort systems. This applies to the climate control system or the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant.

Offered as standard with the new S-class is a Burmester 3D surround sound system. The German specialist in audio systems has been providing custom-developed sound systems for Mercedes-Benz model since 2013. The sound emanating from the high-quality speakers can be specifically optimized for the front and rear seats to give a very personalized listening experience.

Continued leadership in safety
In the area of safety, Mercedes-Benz has certainly held a leadership position, often developing and introducing more advanced safety features and systems. The S-Class, being the flagship, has had the honour of being the first model with new safety technologies. One example is the airbag, which made its first appearance in a production car in 1980 when the S-Class (W126) was launched. It was initially only for the driver and then the passenger also got one, and today, there are airbags on the sides of the cabin as well and one to protect the driver’s knees.

The new S-Class again takes a pioneering role by having the world’s first rear airbags. These are integrated into the backrests of the front seats and deploy in a severe front impact. They deploy gently and protect strapped-in outer rear seat passengers against contact with the front seats. The loads on the head and neck can thus be reduced significantly.

With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz comes another big step closer to its vision of accident-free driving. The driver is supported by numerous new or extended driving assistance systems that reduce the driving workload in daily motoring and fatigue on long journeys. This leads to better alertness behind the wheel and therefore safer motoring.

However, there may be situations where the driver might not react in time, and this is where the assistance systems come in. They can detect other vehicles and (at very high speeds) determine the possibility of an accident, and activate the brakes if no action is taken by the driver. The emergency braking functions serve to protect other road-users, too. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display. Thanks to improved environmental sensors, the parking systems also give the driver even better support when maneuvering at low speed.

The PRE-SAFE system, which has been present for some time in Mercedes-Benz models, has comprehensive protective measures to reduce injuries during accidents. Upon detection of a likely impact, it can prepare the occupants for a side-on collision and reduce the risk of injury. Like a bodyguard, it pushes the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone towards the inside. The impulse is created by the movement of the seat side bolsters in the front backrests.

Besides innovations in restraint systems, the intelligent bodyshell design uses a new aluminium hybrid body shell. The content of the lightweight material exceeding 50% meets numerous requirements while lowering weight and contributing to better handling and ride comfort.

Seven generations of the S-Class since 1951.

BMW Concept XM – preview of the most powerful BMW M car ever to go into volume production

At the Art Basel 2021 Miami Beach show in Florida this week, BMW M will present the Concept XM as a look ahead to the most powerful BMW M car ever to go into volume production. It also provides a first glimpse of the new front-end design for BMW’s forthcoming luxury-class models with its distinctive take on BMW X model design.

The new design language
The slim and iconic daytime driving lights (DRLs) and the contour lighting of the emotive kidney grille are the main focal points. The horizontal grille sits prominently between the headlights and tapers towards the outer edges, producing a near-octagonal outline that emphasizes the front end’s dynamic character. The black kidney grille elements are enclosed within an intricate surround and appear almost to be floating freely within a high-gloss black surface. M-style double bars within the grille add to the perception of width.

The boldly sculpted bonnet extends the contours of the kidney grille back in the form of two power domes. A pair of air intakes in the bonnet mimic the appearance of the LED searchlights in the roof and framing the statuesque body at its lower edge are the clean-cut black surfaces of the front apron. Triangular body-coloured blades at the outer edges accentuate the vertical air intakes while emphasizing the sporty and robust stance.

The visually expressive silhouette exudes presence with its size and the design language uses strikingly sculpted surfaces and extravagant lines. The two-tone paint finish further accentuates its distinctive lines, with the upper section in matt gold-bronze, while the lower section sports the Space Grey metallic shade.

Below the window graphic, a broad, High-gloss Black line – the ‘black belt’ – separates the two exterior colours. The signature M exterior mirrors give the car a clean-cut and technical, sporty edge. Throughout the side view, deliberately short character lines, which start off boldly before fading softly, accentuate the car’s agile, modern feel.

The expressive rear lights extend well into the car’s flanks and create an eye-catching transition into the rear. The black cladding typical of BMW X models above the wheels and on the sideskirts is very clearly defined and gives the body an elevated appearance.

The glasshouse of the Concept XM rises vertically and the colour of the roof contrasts with the black finish of the A-pillars. The windscreen seems to have an even heavier rake as a result, injecting modern dynamism into the front end. Slim LED searchlights have been incorporated into the roof above the A-pillars, adding to the SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) image.

At the back, the rear window is inserted almost seamlessly into the rear end. The fresh interpretation of the design can also be seen in the arrangement of the BMW logo, which is laser-etched into the window below each of the two rails. This is a stylistic reference to the BMW M1, to date the only example of a standalone model developed exclusively by BMW M (and that was back in 1978).

Lower down, dominating the rear apron, are the characteristic twin tailpipes of BMW M models. The dual-branch, twin-tailpipe exhaust system reduces backpressure for the engine and also generates the emotionally rich M-typical soundtrack accompanying the engine’s imposing power delivery. The vertical arrangement and hexagonal interpretation of the tailpipes are a new take for this classically iconic feature.

PHEV only
The production model will have only a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV) and it will be BMW M’s first electrified high-performance model. In the Concept XM, the powertrain is a M Hybrid drive system which combines a V8 engine and a high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 750 ps and 1,000 Nm. More detailed technical information is not available at this time but there is a claim of up to 80 kms running on just electric power.

Driver-focused cockpit
Like other M models, the cabin of the Concept XM has a driver-focused cockpit design. The lines and surface design of the instrument panel, centre console, door trim and seats give the ambience in the front compartment a progressive feel with their powerful geometry and high-quality materials. A bold trim element provides clear visual separation between the driver’s area and the other sections of the car.

The new BMW Curved Display screen grouping positioned creates a neat balance between traditional driver focus and modern digitality. Red accents on the steering wheel and centre console are M-specific references, while a trio of vertical elements presented in the three colours of the BMW M brand logo form the heart of the centre console.

The M Lounge
The rear area is referred to as the ‘M Lounge’, with special materials and expressive details for the seats along with black-tinted rear side windows. The large rear seat bench with its deep seat recesses forms an inviting space to relax. Only the diamond-shaped area of the head restraints – which provides the supporting function familiar from BMW M Sport seats in other models – is leather-trimmed. The lower sections of the seats offer high comfort and an exclusive couch character with their luxurious velvet upholstery and diamond quilting.

Illuminated and sculptural headliner
The visual highlight of the cabin is its headliner with a 3-dimensional prism structure. A combination of indirect and direct lighting produces a relief-like structure which showcases the headliner as an exclusive work of art. Together with the ambient lighting, it highlights the Concept XM’s blend of luxury and comfort to extremely striking effect. The ambient lighting can be activated in the three BMW M colours.

Production from end of 2022
The production model – the BMW XM – will be built from the end of 2022 at BMW’s factory in the USA which was also where the company first SAV, the X5, was built in 1999. The US market is a big market for BMW SAVs and is expected to be the most important sales market for the new high-performance model.

The BMW M1 has so far been the only example of a standalone model developed exclusively by BMW M (in 1978). This picture shows one of the 453 cars built at the end of a race in Malaysia’s Batu Tiga circuit in the 1980s.

Volvo XC60 gets ‘smarter’ with integrated Google apps and services

Volvo Car Malaysia has updated its XC60 and apart from cosmetic changes and added safety features, the significant new feature is integration with Google Services. This is the outcome of the partnership between the Swedish carmaker and Google which sees a first-of-its-kind built-in infotainment system complete with a host of Google Services.

Volvo Cars is the first company to team up with Google to integrate an infotainment system powered by Android with Google apps and services such as Google Assistant built in. This means that Volvo drivers can get the same sort of apps that they have on an Android smartphone integrated with their infotainment system and use voice commands to manage and operate them.

Of course, there is now also Android Auto which can mirror apps from a compatible smartphone onto infotainment systems but having the apps and services as part of the system is even better.

Additionally, with the Volvo Car App and Connected Services, the driver can be easily connected to the XC60 using a mobile device. This enables convenient remote control of several functions, eg cooling down the cabin by starting the air-conditioner, checking vehicle status, locking/unlocking the doors, etc.

Referring to the latest model as ‘The Smarter XC60’, Charles Frump, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia, said that with Google Services, customers can get the most intuitive infotainment experience in the automotive industry. “It fully delivers on our brand promise to provide the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way,” he said.

The latest XC60, priced from RM325,449 (without insurance and sales tax), has a new grille, new front bumpers and a new exterior colour. For the Recharge T8 version, there are also new 19-inch 6-multispoke black diamond-cut alloy wheel design and a Bowers and Wilkins sound system as standard.

As an electrified model, the XC60 uses hybrid technology with its 2-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine that has a supercharger as well as a turbocharger. The combustion engine output is 407 bhp/640 Nm with the electric motor contributing 87 bhp/240 Nm. All that power goes through an 8-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 5.3 seconds.

In the past, that sort of performance would mean high consumption but the XC60 is said to be able to do up to 45 kms/litre. This is because the powertrain does not run on the petrol engine all the time and depending on conditions, it use the electric motor which means no fuel is consumed. There is even a mode that can ‘lock’ the powertrain in pure electric mode but only for a limited distance as it will be constantly drawing on power from the lithium-ion battery pack.

Volvo built much of its reputation on safety and the XC60 ensures that is maintained. While the early Volvos had impressive passive safety (which protects occupants when an accident occurs), today’s models have more advanced Active Safety systems. These Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) can help to avoid collisions, keep the car in its lane and even stop the car at a junction if another vehicle is approaching from either side (but the driver is unaware). Small cameras provide a simulated image of the area around the vehicle so the driver can spot hazards and also park more precisely.

2022 Citroen C5 X – a multi-design SUV

While SUVs are still very popular around the world, the designs have settled on a few common forms, depending on the segment. For Citroen, which has long designed its cars with a degree of uniqueness, looking for a new styling concept was the challenge given to the designers. The new model would have to combine the modernity and appeal of an SUV, the elegance and status of a saloon, and the versatility and practicality of a station wagon.

SUV with alternative design concept
Their proposal is the new C5 X which meets the expectations of customers wanting large tourers and those who are also looking for a more modern and stylish alternative to more traditional SUV’s, saloon and stationwagon models. “With the all-new C5 X, Citroen is revisiting the spirit of touring – the ability to travel in an elegant, refined car and set off to discover the world with complete peace of mind,” said Vincent Cobee, CEO of Citroen.

The bodystyle of the C5 X is muscular with optimised aerodynamics to reduce fuel consumption, with a streamlined profile drawing inspiration from aeronautics. The fluidity of the bodystyle is emphasised by the car’s tight, muscular volume. The extended bonnet, the high beltline and the rear wheel flare give it distinction, dynamism and sturdiness, common among Citroen’s larger vehicles.

The streamlined profile combines with a raised ride height and large diameter alloy wheels to give a more commanding view than would be available in a saloon or stationwagon. Around the wheel arches, vertical surfacing detail enhances the vehicle’s character. They highlight the large-diameter wheels while ensuring that air flows along the length of the body.

Coupe-inspired roofline
The elongated coupe-inspired sloping roofline ends with a ‘floating’ aerodynamic spoiler to further enhance the dynamic silhouette. The impression of a ‘floating roof’ is further enhanced through gloss black a-pillars, door pillar trims and dark tinted rear. As an option, customers choose a bi-tone Perla Nera Black roof for a more stylish appearance.

The LED V-shaped lighting signature representing Citroen’s new identity echoes the 3D rear light signature for greater consistency. The upper chevrons highlight the end of the bonnet and stretch right up to the LED daytime running lights, highlighting the width of the front end. The lower chevrons stretch up to the LED headlights and daytime running lights for a high-tech look.

A close look at the lighting signature will reveal real attention to detail. Small light veins create a graphic chevron design in the headlights that highlight the car’s look and reinforce the signature, particularly from the front three-quarter view.

The bonnet is long and horizontal, and positioned fairly low with pair of large scalloped design details, reminiscent of the latest C4 and C5 Aircross SUV. The lower air intake, highlighted by a chrome strip, has a highly geometric design – one that draws inspiration from chevrons – and houses the main radar used for the car’s driving aids.

Stationwagon practicality at the rear
To the rear of C5 X, dual spoilers combine to give a very dynamic look. This, combined with the steeply raked tailgate window design, helps to continue the flowing silhouette. Further details – such as the crisp lines around the lower part of the tailgate and bumper coupled with the lower chevron pattern and the chrome decoration around the reflectors – emphasise the vehicle’s width.

The rear of the car is also designed to be practical and provide more volume for the driver, offering stationwagon levels of modularity. The tailgate provides a wide and functional opening with a low loading sill.

Plug-in hybrid powertrain
The powerful 225 ps plug-in hybrid powertrain is claimed to give a range of up to 55 kms. Combustion engines will still be available but Citroen is not providing information on them yet.

Other technical details available at this time include Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Active Suspension system, with the cabin having a lounge-like interior space and Advanced Comfort seats

Production of the C5 X will start towards the end of this year with first deliveries starting during the first quarter of 2022.

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Silk-FAW to display updated Hongqi S9 PHEV hypercar at Milan Design Week next month

The S9 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) hypercar which was first presented as a concept at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show is making steady progress towards production. The last time it made the news was in April this year when a production-ready model was shown at Auto Shanghai 2021 and orders were being taken.

Pricing starts from 1.5 million euros (about RM7.453 million) and at that price, Silk-FAW would not be looking at high volumes. It is believed that the production run will be limited to 99 units, so it will be a ‘halo car’ for the rest of the Hongqi range which will have many new fully electric models.

Styled by ex-Volkswagen designer
The S9 began life as a project for the Hongqi premium brand of FAW (First Auto Works, a state-owned carmaker in China). The original design was done by Walter de Silva, formerly design head at the Volkswagen Group whose work includes many Volkswagen, SEAT and Audi models, including the R8. He is credited with being the man who introduced the Singleframe grille design which has been used on Audis since 2004.

In February this year, FAW signed a joint venture with Silk EV, an Italian engineering company, to develop a series of ultra-luxury, high-performance, new energy sports vehicles for the China and global markets. This moved the S9 to Silk-FAW which will bring it to the market by 2023.

To be built in Italy
With an investment of 1 billion euros, the S9 (as well as another model) will be further developed and manufactured in Regione Emilia-Romagna, the heart of Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’, where Silk EV has its headquarters. As development of the Hongqi ‘S’ Series line-up continues, production will be carried out in Italy as well as Changchun, where FAW’s headquarters is located in China.

1,400 bhp with top speed over 400 km/h
Silk-FAW will display the production version of the S9 at the Milan Design Week in early September. It has been confirmed that the hypercar will have a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 4-litre V8 petrol engine with electric turbocharging, and two electric motors. Total system output is expected to be in the region of 1,400 bhp, with 880 bhp coming from the engine. A top speed of over 400 km/h is expected with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h targeted to be 1.9 seconds.

Other technical and design elements are not being revealed yet but as the pictures show, it has a long-tail design with a spaceframe underneath. Aerodynamic efficiency will obviously be superior and besides a variable geometry spoiler, there will be innovative carbonfibre air intakes, seamlessly integrated into each headlight, to bring cooling air to the engine. Air extraction will be via the rear light units.

All-new Opel Astra joins electrification direction of Stellantis Group

The last time Opels were officially sold in Malaysia was in the 1990s by a small company called Europel. There were ambitious plans to assemble a model called the Vectra but it never went ahead. Opel was actually a fairly strong brand in the country with its German background and it had robust, reliable models. Unfortunately, General Motors, which owned Opel then, decided to stop using the brand and instead used Chevrolet which it declared as ‘the most international of GM brands’.

Anyway, eventually Opel was sold off to the PSA Group (now part of the Stellantis Group) which has Citroen and Peugeot. Some of the models from the GM era continued to be produced and evolved through generations and one of them is the Astra, which began life as the successor to the Kadett (which would be familiar to older Malaysians) in the early 1990s.

Europel also sold the Astra here as a small, slightly sporty hatchback but only in limited numbers. So most Malaysians would not know about the model. It has reached the sixth generation which was recently unveiled, with deliveries to start early in 2022.

Moving to electric drives
Until now, the Astra has used combustion engines and for this new generation, it will be the first time that the model will have electric drive, in line with the future direction of the PSA Group. Petrol and diesel engines will still be available as there will still be markets that need them.

The electrified powertrain will be a plug-in hybrid type with two performance levels that can deliver up to 165 kW (225 ps) system output. The combustion engine side is a 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol unit and with the 12.4 kWh battery pack, an electric-only range of 50 kms is claimed (subject to driving conditions, of course). The transmission is an 8-speed automatic only.

PSA Group EMP2 platform
Earlier generations of the Astra sat on GM platforms that were used for a multitude of models of different brands all over the world. Under PSA ownership, the new Astra uses the third generation of EMP2 multi-energy architecture which is also used in Peugeots and Citroens.

The Opel Vizor look
The bodywork is appropriate for the new chapter in the evolution of the Astra. It has taut surfaces with no superfluous elements and with a new corporate face that the company calls the ‘Opel Vizor’, which was first used on the Mokka launched last year. It is inspired by a full-face helmet, with a ‘protective visor’ that organically integrates the grille, the headlights and the brand logo in one single module.

The Vizor concept also seamlessly integrates technologies such as the ultra-slim headlamps. This is the latest evolution of the adaptive Intelli-Lux LED Pixel light with 168 LED elements which comes straight from Opel’s flagship Insignia.

Moving into the fully digital era
As with the electrified powertrain, the interior also takes a leap forward. With the fully digital Pure Panel, analogue instruments are now ‘obsolete’, something for old-timers to talk about. There is a new human-machine-interface (HMI) with fresh, modern graphics on extra-wide touchscreens, just like a smartphone.

The interior designers have taken great care to ensure that the driver receives all the necessary information and useful operating options, but is not burdened with excessive or unnecessary data or functions. Key settings such as climate control can still be operated via physical switches and buttons which are still more practical and functional.

Driver assistance systems
The driver is supported by assistance systems ranging from the Head-Up Display to the semi-automated Intelli-Drive 2.0 assistance system and Intelli-Vision 360-degree camera. In addition to the multifunction camera, the technology comprises 4 body cameras, 5 radar sensors, as well as ultrasonic sensors front and rear.

The cameras and sensors are integrated with e-horizon connectivity in Intelli-Drive 2.0 which extends the coverage range. This enables the system to adapt the speed in curves, make speed recommendations and perform semi-automatic lane changes. Hands-off detection on the steering wheel ensures the driver remains engaged at all times.

Aston Martin to turn the Valhalla concept into a production PHEV supercar

The Valhalla was just a concept car which Aston Martin presented 2 years ago, a possible new model after the Valkyrie which would also be mid-engined. While it may have remained a concept for a while more, the change in ownership and management last year has seen the hybrid supercar being given the green light for production.

Led by Aston Martin’s CEO, Tobias Moers, the Valhalla is the latest and most significant product of the brand’s Project Horizon strategy. It will broaden the model portfolio to reflect Aston Martin’s presence in Formula 1 and drive the transition from internal combustion to hybrid to full electric powertrains.

Technology expertise from F1 team
Built with chassis, aerodynamic and electronics expertise drawn from its F1 involvement via the Aston Martin Cognizant team, the Valhalla is expected to offer superlative performance, dynamics and also driving pleasure. It will be a rolling showcase of technology employed in the highest level of motorsport.

Propelling the Valhalla is its all-new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain with a rear (mid)-mounted 4-litre twin-turbo bespoke V8 engine originating from Mercedes-AMG (a V6 had been considered before). This is said to be the most advanced, responsive and highest performing V8 engine ever installed in an Aston Martin, developing 750 ps to power the rear wheels.

Supplementing the V8 engine is a pair of EMotors, one mounted on the front axle and the other on the rear axle. The motors, which get energy from a 150kW/400V battery pack contribute a further 204 ps to give a total system output of 950 ps.

When driven in EV mode, power is directed exclusively to the front axle. In other driving modes the power is split between front and rear axles. The percentage sent to each axle constantly varies according to driving demands. In certain situations, 100% of electrical power can be sent to the rear axle, supplementing the full output of the V8 engine for maximum performance.

Bespoke 8-speed DCT
Completing the powertrain is an all-new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission from an Italian supplier. Exclusively engineered and built for Aston Martin, this new paddle-shift gearbox has been developed specifically for use with hybrid powertrains. It has ‘e-reverse’ which utilizes the electric motors and thereby saves weight by negating the need for a conventional reverse gear. The transmission also has an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential on the rear axle for maximum traction and handling agility.

Running in EV-only mode, the Valhalla is said to be capable of a maximum of 130 km/h and up to 15 kms with a fully charged battery pack. When the maximum output of 950 ps is used, the Valhalla is expected to reach a top speed of 330 km/h after going from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds.

*The Valhalla will have technologies drawn from Formula 1 via the Aston Martin Cognizant team which is competing in the championship.*

Carbonfibre tub for low weight
Structurally, the Valhalla is built around a new a carbonfibre tub for maximum stiffness with minimum weight penalty. Featuring Formula 1-style pushrod front suspension complete with inboard mounted springs and dampers reducing unsprung mass gives a brilliant packaging solution. For the rear-end’s multilink design, there are Multimatic Variable Spring rate and Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) Damper units providing adjustable ride frequency.

In addition to stiffer suspension, Track mode sees ride height significantly reduced in order to maximize downforce. At the other end of the speed scale, a front axle lift system raises the nose for improved approach angle on awkward inclines (and Malaysia speedbumps).

Considering the sort of speeds the Valhalla can travel at, stopping power also needs to be superior and high-performance Carbon Ceramic Matrix brakes (with brake-by-wire technology) are fitted. And to keep the car stuck to the road even in the most extreme cornering conditions are Michelin tyres (20 inches front, 21 inches rear) developed specifically for the Valhalla.

With a target dry weight of less than 1550 kgs, the Valhalla will have an unrivalled power-to-weight ratio compared to its class rivals. Weight of a different kind – that generated by aerodynamic downforce – also plays its part in Valhalla’s unmatched dynamic capabilities. Benefitting from a flow-down of the Valkyrie hypercar’s Formula 1-inspired aerodynamic philosophy, the Valhalla employs a combination of active aerodynamic surfaces – specifically the front surfaces and rear wing – and masterful management of underbody airflow through dramatic venturi tunnels.

LHD and RHD to be available
To maximize sales globally, Aston Martin will offer the supercar in lefthand and righthand drive layouts. It has more cockpit room that the Valkyrie with many Formula 1-inspired hallmarks. An innovative new Aston Martin HMI system features a central touchscreen display and incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Adjustable pedals and steering column enable the seat bases to be fixed to the chassis structure.

“When we created the Valhalla concept, we were keen to emphasize the design legacy of the Aston Martin Valkyrie and that intent remains unchanged, but the execution has evolved considerably in order to reach production of this all-new car. Though the legacy of Valkyrie is clear, Valhalla is now a more mature, fully resolved piece of design. One which combines the pure aerodynamic function you would expect from a marque competing in Formula One, together with the beautiful form, striking proportions and exemplary detailing for which Aston Martin is renowned,” said the company’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman.

Aston Martin has not said how much or how many cars will be available although the number is likely to be more than limit of 150 units that the Valkyrie has. The sophistication of the supercar means production will be over a longer period and it is believed that first deliveries are likely to start in the fourth quarter of 2023.