Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd is proud to announce that the brand has retained its 2 titles in the commercial vehicles sector. The Isuzu brand remains as Malaysia’s top-selling truck for the 8th consecutive year. At the same time, it is still the best-selling light-duty truck for 12 consecutive years.
Taking all commercial segments into account, Isuzu Malaysia sold a total of 4,808 trucks in 2021. About 95% of this sales achievement was in the form of its light-duty trucks (4,545 units).
“We are extremely thrilled to be able to achieve and retain the top spot again for overall truck and light-duty truck categories which our Isuzu brand has been privileged enough to enjoy for so many consecutive years in this market,” said Koji Nakamura, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
“These achievements demonstrate the continuation of our robust footprint and growth in Malaysia, as well as our ability in positioning ourselves to harness the opportunities whilst tackling the challenges amidst a pandemic-laden market situation. It is also particularly significant given how this situation had caused supply chain disruptions such as scarcity of raw materials which has impacted production in the trucking industry,” he added.
Another important factor to its continued success in Malaysia has been its extensive dealer network across the country. According to the company, regular communication between head office and dealer partners had fostered strong relationships which enable Isuzu Malaysia to capture on-ground market intelligence and deliver what customers need.
“Our dealers have a closely established rapport with our customers and were able to constantly gather feedback about the customers’ business situation and trucking solutions requirements. With these crucial ‘on-ground’ market information, our sales and aftersales teams could identify what are the gaps and work towards maintaining the strength of their respective operations for the benefit of our customers,” said Atsunori Murata, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
According to Murata, Isuzu Malaysia’s management team used to make regular face-to-face visits to its dealerships, business partners such as body builders and transporters, and customers. However, this all changed in light of the pandemic. The company started to optimise digital communications platforms for its marketing efforts, such as creating videos on YouTube and Facebook, disseminating SMS and holding meetings using Microsoft and Google tools. This ensured continuity of relationship-building and promotion of new products and services to its partners and customers.
Over the past 2 years, Isuzu Malaysia had rolled out several strategic initiatives including partnering with new dealers and opening of new centers, introduction of new product innovations such as the ELF range with Isuzu Safety Plus for greater safety and efficiency, as well as on-time truck delivery to customers. The company said all these had helped in meeting the trucking needs of customers and enhancing their satisfaction which are pivotal in maintaining the brand’s robust truck sales and market-leading position.
“We are grateful that our Isuzu brand continues to enjoy high demand as more customers experience the performance and comfort of our trucks. Since we introduced the new ELF range with Isuzu Safety Plus 2 years ago featuring a combination of safety system upgrades and B20 biodiesel compatibility, our customers have experienced greater efficiency and safety,” Murata shared.
“Overall, Isuzu Malaysia is very honoured to share our success with everyone in our dealer network and employees because without their strong passion, dedication and outstanding work for the brand, achieving a market-leading position year-on-year would be a tough feat. Equally, we are also extremely appreciative to all our customers and we will continue to remain focused on providing more excellence and value through outstanding products and services to support their varied trucking needs,” concluded Murata.
BMW Group Malaysia and Regas Group have introduced the BMW iX and a new i Charging Facility to go along with it. This introduction aims to open up more residents of Sarawak to the world of EV ownership. The BMW i Charging Facility is located at Regas Premium Auto Kuching.
“2022 will be a momentous year for us at BMW Group Malaysia as we gear towards an electrified offensive that will transform the local automotive landscape to one that is electrifying and sustainable. As such, it is important that we continue working closely with all our stakeholders, especially our dealers, to ensure that essential charging infrastructures are in place to accelerate this shift across the country. The arrival of the First-Ever BMW iX, as well as the installation of a new BMW i DC Fast Charging facility at Regas Premium Auto Kuching are testament to this approach, and we are thrilled for our customers in Sarawak to experience Sheer Electric Driving Pleasure at its finest,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
The unveiling of the new BMW i Charging Facility was officiated by YB Dato Sri Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government of Sarawak. “This development of better infrastructure to accelerate the uptake of electromobility amongst motorists in Sarawak is a move that we warmly welcome from all stakeholders in the industry. The confidence shown by BMW Group Malaysia and Regas Group on the viability of electrifying the automotive industry here aligns with our goals for sustainable mobility as well, and we hope to see more automakers taking inspiration from this to also work collaboratively in bringing up the ecosystem for electromobility here in Sarawak,” he commented.
Jolene Tay, Marketing Manager of Regas Premium Auto added, “As the only authorised BMW dealer in Sarawak, we are honoured to be able to represent the Future of Electrified Mobility here, on behalf of BMW Group Malaysia – with the installation of the new BMW i DC Fast Charger, one of only 2 DC fast charging facilities currently available in the state. The arrival of the all-electric BMW iX is also timely as customer interest and appreciation for electrified vehicles steadily rise in East Malaysia.”
You can check out the all-electric BMW iX at Regas Premium Auto Kuching from today until 2 March 2022. Visit https://www.bmw-regas.com.my/ to learn more.
Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) has launched an improved version of its all-time favourite entry-level scooter. For 2022, the Karisma 125S comes with various improvements. There are 3 colour schemes available i.e. Aqua Blue, Duchess Gold and Mystic Red, along with the updated graphic design.
The front of the Modenas Karisma 125S wears a pair of stylish full LED headlights that are integrated with daytime running lights (DRL). Even the front and rear signal lights have been upgraded to LED units, complete with a catchy hazard light design. Other upgrades to the Karisma 125S include a modern meter display with digital fuel gauge, as well as a brand-new key system that comes with a seat opener button. The scooter is also equipped with a USB port on the dashboard for convenient charging of devices.
Furthermore, the Karisma 125S has a 14-litre compartment under the ergonomically designed seat for practical storage. There is also a pair of pockets in front for storage convenience.
For power, the Modenas Karisma 125S gets a 124.8 cc, 4-stroke single-cylinder engine with fuel injection. This engine meets the Euro 4 and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) standards. It is capable of producing maximum power of 7 kW @ 7,500 rpm and 10 Nm of torque @ 6,000 rpm. Coupled with a fairly large 5.1-litre fuel tank, this scooter should be able to handle longer and more fuel-efficient rides.
“As the market sees a rise in demand for scooter type motorcycles, by launching this brand-new model, MODENAS will not miss this opportunity in further expanding the scooter market segment in Malaysia. Together with the price tag, new modern design and latest technology, I truly believe it will be love-at-first sight for our customers”, says Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive of MODENAS.
The 2022 Modenas Karisma 125S has a recommended selling price of RM5,397 (excluding insurance and road tax). It is now available at all authorised MODENAS dealerships nationwide.
Now in Malaysia is the special hand-built Aston Martin DBX The One Edition. This customised unit was introduced by Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur for those who want a one-of-a kind DBX in Malaysia. DBX The One Edition features 23″ Satin Black wheels, the largest ever fitted on an Aston Martin. Despite its size, the forged Halo Diamond Turned wheels is one of the lightest available.
Further, this unique DBX is painted in the elegant Concours Blue, which is the same used for the Aston Martin One-77 on its debut. This exterior colour has been removed from the DBX’s colour palette so it will remain unique.
This customised specification is created to appreciate the synergy between sport and refinement which run deeply in Aston Martin’s veins. Its interior is set with a duotone environment, with a mix of subtly detailed Oxford Tan and Onyx Black leather that hint at equestrian and fine saddlery.
Besides the forged wheels, the selection of the exterior specification and personalisation options includes the exterior gloss black package and sport exhaust upgrade. These help to make this custom DBX a distinct look.
The Aston Martin DBX is built on a brand new, all-Aston Martin architecture. It is powered by a 4.0L twin turbo V8 engine with 542 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. The 0 – 100 km/h sprint time is officially recorded at 4.5 seconds, and its top speed is 291 km/h.
The Aston Martin DBX The One Edition is priced from RM1,100,000, but you can have a regular Aston Martin DBX from a base price of RM818,000 (prices stated exclude duties and taxes).
For more information about the Aston Martin DBX The One Edition, please call +60 3 2163 1196 or email astonmartinkl.enquiries@wearnes.com
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz C-Class which includes its latest intelligent user interface, including biometrics. The 2 variants available are the C200 Avantgarde and C300 AMG Line, both of which are imported. Plans for local assembly will happen later.
The C200 is powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo engine with an output of 204 hp (+ 20) and 300 Nm of torque (+ 200), while the C300 uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo which produces 258 hp (+ 27) and 400 Nm (+ 200). Both the engines come from the current Mercedes-Benz’s FAME (Family of Modular Engines) range, and get an additional boost from an integrated starter-generator (ISG) for assistance at low engine speeds. The 2nd generation ISG provides an additional output of 15 kW and 200 Nm. This mild hybrid system has a 48 V electrical system that manages gliding, boosting and energy recovery to improve fuel efficiency. Mercedes-Benz has, for the first time, combined all the innovations of the modular engine family of 4 and 6-cylinder petrol and diesel units in a single engine. It claims that this system provides a smooth and seamless transition in the starting and stopping of the engine thus enhancing the driving experience.
C200 1.5L Engine
C300 2.0 Engine
The 9-speed 9G-TRONIC transmission was also developed for use with the ISG and uses a new generation of the fully integrated transmission control with multi-core processor and new design and connectivity technology. With the redesign, the weight of the transmission controls has also been reduced by 30%. Furthermore, the twin scroll turbocharger was developed with assistance from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 team. This has allowed the output of the C 300 to be increased by up to 20 kW overboost for short periods.
In terms of performance, the C200 can do a 0 – 100 km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 246 km/h, while the C300 can do it in 6 seconds and reach 250 km/h. The fuel efficiency of these cars are rated at 6.6 l/100km and 7.0 l/100km respectively.
The visual appeal of the C-Class is bolstered by sporty design elements, with a combination of short front overhang, long wheelbase and rear overhang. The windscreen and passenger cell are placed further back in a “cab backward” design. The designers have also kept lines to a minimum thereby accentuating the so-called catwalk line or shoulder line even more.
On its face, both variants carry the central 3-pointed star on varying grille designs. The Avantgarde Line trim for the C200 has vertical grille fins and elegant trim strips in high-sheen aluminium and chrome. While the AMG Line for the C300 has the Mercedes-Benz pattern grille with the star design in chrome. Further, the C200 sits on lowered comfort suspension and 18” 5-spoke wheels. The sportier C300 has 19″ AMG multi-spoke wheels. Other key exterior highlights of including panoramic sunroof, LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive High Beam Assist.
The rear-end design is typical of a Mercedes-Benz sedan. The tail lamps for the first time have a 2-piece design in the C-Class, with the light functions divided between the side wall and boot lid lamps. Both rear ends are nearly indistinguishable save for the vertical vents on the rear bumper of the AMG Line model.
The interior of the C-Class is where a lot of innovations are presented. The dashboard is divided into an upper and a lower section, with a wing-like section with new, flattened round vents inspired by aircraft engine nacelles, and an opulent expanse of trim that flows from the center console to the dashboard.
The dashboard and central display are tilted towards the driver by 6 degrees and features a high-resolution 12.3” free-standing driver display. Taking up dashboard space is a large touchscreen in portrait orientation, which gets to lay out the navigation app in a useful manner. It also features a fingerprint scanner which can identify you quickly and conveniently, thus enhancing the protection of personal information. The fingerprint scanner is located in an ergonomically convenient location below the central display. As part of a one-time process it records the distinctive biometric features of up to 2 random fingers per user. Therefore, no one is able to observe a number combination, which could happen with PIN entry.
In addition, a dashboard covered with man-made leather and featuring nappa-look beltlines is available for the C-Class. The available trim showcases innovative surfaces. These include new interpretations of open-pored veneers in stylish tones and a black, open-pored wood veneer featuring fine inlays of genuine aluminum that follow the dashboard’s contours.
Further, the door center panel with integrated armrest has evolved from a vertical surface into a horizontal one. Reflecting the design of the center console, the front section takes the form of a metallic high-tech element. It can be used as a grab or closing handle, and houses the power window controls. Another highlight is the floating control cluster, into which the door opener and seat adjustment controls are integrated.
The special design of the comfort or sport seats of the new C-Class uses layers and enveloping surfaces to create a visual impression of lightness. The head restraints are a completely new design and are attached to the backrest with a sealed piece of trim under which the adjustment mechanism is located.
Just like the new S-Class, the new C-Class gets the 2nd generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) that utilises the versatility of the digital screens. The driver display and media display offer a holistic, aesthetic experience with information displayed in a clear and structured way. The look of the screens can be individualised as long as it’s in the 3 display styles i.e. Discreet, Sporty, and Classic. There are also 3 modes i.e. Navigation, Assistance, and Service.
In “Classic” style, the driver is welcomed with a familiar display environment. The proven display with 2 tubes and changing content between them provides all the information relevant to the driver.
“Sporty” turns into a red theme, with dynamic design of the central rev counter.
In “Discreet” style, the content is reduced to just the essentials. In addition, both screens can be shown in 7 color schemes with the ambient lighting.
In the new “Assistance Mode”, the traffic situation is shown in real time and supplemented with important displayed information.
The 2nd gen MBUX also includes the “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant that is more interactive and has learning capabilities by activating online services in the Mercedes me App. Similar to the S-Class, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword “Hey Mercedes”. This includes taking a telephone call. “Hey Mercedes” also explains vehicle functions e.g. providing guidance on connecting a smartphone by Bluetooth or where the first-aid kit can be found. The system also integrates Spotify and Apple Music for a more customised entertainment.
Furthermore, Augmented Video is available as standard in the Malaysian models of the C-Class. A camera registers the surroundings in front of the vehicle and the moving images are shown on the central display. In addition, virtual objects, information and markers are superimposed on the video image. These include directional arrows, lane-change recommendations and others. This helps make navigation easier, especially in urban areas.
Also, the over-the-air (OTA) update feature of the MBUX system allows you to get the latest features and functions, ensuring the system remains relevant for a longer time.
“The C-Class has been our bestselling model to date. Since its introduction as the 190, over 10.5 million Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been delivered globally. Likewise in Malaysia, our customers love this vehicle as we continue to define the standards of comfort and innovation in the premium midsize sedan segment. With the new C-Class, our designers have been tasked to develop a car that combines human-centered innovations with sporty and modern design. Today, we are convinced that we have succeeded in delivering a car where design meets luxury and technology. We are very excited to introduce the new C-Class in Malaysia and with the latest edition, we are taking the next logical step on our road to a digital and sustainable future with a host of innovations that sets the benchmark in this segment,” said Sagree Sardien, President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
“The new C-Class redefines its segment in several respects at once: the comfortable spaciousness in the rear, the interior ambience and the high-quality workmanship. Following the pinnacle of luxury in the S-Class, the second generation of MBUX already débuts in the new C-Class. All the possibilities for intuitive operation and personalisation have been adopted, plus driver-orientation as a new feature specific to the model series: the dashboard and central display are slightly tilted towards the driver, underlining the sportiness of the C-Class as a first in a Mercedes-Benz passenger car,” added Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
The Mercedes-Benz C200 Avantgarde Line is priced at RM288,334, and the C300 AMG Line is RM330,681. Prices are on-the-road without insurance.
Mercedes-Benz Financial has tailored financing packages available that enables you to have regular fixed monthly instalments over a set period of time.
The Chery Group, which is expected to launch its OMODA 5 SUV in Malaysia, has posted a significant increase in its export sales. In January 2022, its overseas sales amounted to 26,900 vehicles, a 60.9% year-on-year increase. Although it is only about a quarter of its total monthly sales of 107,710 vehicles, it shows that sales outside of China is growing especially in markets like Russia, Chile, Brazil and Egypt. Incidentally, its January sales had increased by 20% year-on-year and is the best January ever in its sales history.
Russia is one of its major foreign markets, having been there for about 17 years. For the month of January, its sales in Russia grew 47% yoy, ranking it 10th among all automotive brands, according to data from the Association of European Businesses (AEB). The Tiggo 7 Pro is Chery’s best-selling model in Russia for the month.
Meanwhile, Chery ranked 2nd in Chile, selling 2,969 units (+188% yoy) in January. This gives the brand a market share of 8%, according to Asociación Nacional Autoriz de Chile A.G. (ANAC) data. The company also continued to top the SUV segment in January with a market share of 20.5%, its biggest contributor being the Tiggo 2.
In Brazil, Chery ranks among the top 10 passenger vehicle brands. In January, it sold 3,131 vehicles (+36.6% yoy) and captured 3.4% of the market based on data released by the National Motor Vehicle Distribution Federation (Fenabrave). The Arrizo 6 Pro ranked 4th in the car segment with a 6.47% market share, while the Tiggo 3X, Tiggo 8, Tiggo 5X and other models continued to sell well.
Chery’s sales in Egypt also managed to maintain a steady growth. It sold 1,658 vehicles in January, a year-on-year increase of 87.3%. This comes after having reached a historical peak by ranking 3rd in total automobile sales in December 2021. According to Egyptian media brand, Contactcars, 2,186 Chery vehicles were registered in January.
Thus far, Chery has accumulated more than 10 million users worldwide, including 1.95 million users outside of China. In 2022, with the formal commissioning of Chery’s Future Factory of Intelligent Connected Vehicles, improvements in technology, products and the brand, the launch of new products including OMODA 5, as well as the further promotion of adaptive product development and globalisation efforts, the sales volumes of the Chery Group are expected to rise to a new level.
L-R: Mr. Katsumi Ohori, Executive Director of Daihatsu Malaysia Group of Companies; Mr. Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu Malaysia Group of Companies; Mr. Muhammad Fateh Teh bin Abdullah, President & CEO of MBM Resources Berhad; Fong Hon Sum, Founder & Chairman of myTukar; Ernest Chew, Chief Financial Officer, CARRO; and Derrick Eng, CEO of myTukar.
Online used car platform, myTukar, is working with Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DMSB) to enhance its used car sales process. Through this partnership, myTukar will facilitate a smooth experience for all Daihatsu customers to sell their used cars. DMSB is the sole authorised dealership of Perodua and Hino in the country.
DMSB is also a subsidiary of MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR), which is an automotive group involved in trading, manufacturing and assembly. It is one of the substantial shareholders in Perodua.
“We are honoured and excited to embark on this journey with Daihatsu Malaysia Group, a giant in the Malaysian automotive sector. The collaboration will leverage myTukar’s proprietary technology-enabled platform to speed up the selling process of used cars for all Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers. With this partnership, we want to provide Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers a one-stop platform to sell their old cars and get a new one in return, instantly and transparently,” said Derrick Eng, CEO of myTukar, on the strategic partnership.
This partnership is expected to positively impact between 300 – 500 DMSB customers monthly. myTukar will be a trade-in partner for the Daihatsu Malaysia Group, whose partners and customers will now get to enjoy and experience a hassle-free process in selling their cars. This experience will cover inspection services, collection, settlement and a quicker, smoother payment process. Derrick added “We believe this partnership will kick start a new phase for the brand, as the enhancement of the purchasing journey is set to boost the sales of new car purchases under Daihatsu Malaysia Group.” myTukar will also be supplying certified inspectors to perform on-demand vehicle inspection for Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers.
Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu Malaysia Group said, “We are happy to be a part of this incredible effort by myTukar to enhance the new car buying experience for all Daihatsu Malaysia Group customers. With myTukar’s comprehensive and intuitive platform, customers with a used car that are looking to sell it and buy a new vehicle within our group will find the process to be smooth sailing.”
This enhancement to the used car purchasing process will create strong re-marketing channels that will maximise trade-in value, directly increasing profitability. By strengthening the re-marketing channels, the purchasing process is set to become more transparent, opening more digital channels for the sales process of both new and used cars, for all MBMR automotive brands.
myTukar is currently spearheading an expansion in the Asia Pacific region. Aiming to onboard more used car dealerships, myTukar is in the midst of building a more inclusive used car financing system that rides on AI-driven lending metrics.
With the opening of the its Kuala Lumpur North 4S outlet, Millennium Welt now has its first BMW dealership in the Klang Valley. The BMW Millennium Welt KL North, located along Jalan Kuching, is a 4S (sales, services, spare parts, systems) dealership for the BMW brand as well as BMW Premium Selection (BPS).
This dealership also offers a large built-up space of over 35,600 square feet, with a showroom large enough to display up to 5 new BMW vehicles as well as 10 BMW Premium Selection vehicles. The outlet also has 20 service bays including 5 fast lanes, and with 3 RATC (reception at the car) service bays. This enables the Millennium Welt to cater for up to 60 vehicle service appointments a day. Besides this, the dealership also features a Customer Lounge, Handover Lounge, Isetta Bar, BMW Lifestyle & Accessories, BMW Parts, an exterior courtyard.
“The Millennium Welt Kuala Lumpur North dealership is a welcome addition to our extensive network of dealerships in the Klang Valley where we are able to grow in tandem with our deliveries and customer groups in the area. The northern suburbs of Kuala Lumpur is developing rapidly with a projection of contributing over 500 vehicles for the premium segment in the next couple of years. We are also especially pleased that Millennium Welt is embodying the same commitment to sustainable mobility, incorporating responsible alternatives to energy generation and providing greater access to charging infrastructure in such a high-traffic urban location. Their progressive approach to sustainability will go a long way in instilling confidence for an electric future in the years to come, inspiring many along the way,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.
Bryan Wong, Managing Director of Millennium Welt added, “Having been an authorised BMW dealer for over 9 years now, we are proud to welcome our first and most energy-efficient dealership in Kuala Lumpur. We are supporting the low-carbon mobility and electrification ambitions of the BMW Group worldwide which is the main reason we are investing in ensuring that we significantly reduce our carbon footprint where possible. With the support of our strong customer base, we have also set ambitious targets for Millennium Welt to deliver 2,400 vehicles across the BMW, MINI, MINI Next, BMW Motorrad and BMW Premium Selection brands this year across all our network touch-points.”
Millennium Welt KL North is fitted with 192 96 kWp solar panels which are capable of generating over 123,700 kWh to power the dealership. Using micro-inverters to convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) on their rooftops safely and efficiently, Millennium Welt expects to reduce up to 86 tonnes of carbon emission annually, and save up to RM4,900 a month on electricity. Furthermore, electric vehicle owners visiting the dealership will also be able to utilise the AC/DC charging facility for their EV at the customer parking area.
BMW Millennium Welt Kuala Lumpur North has 90 dedicated staff, including 5 certified high voltage technicians, to provide quality services to BMW and BMW Premium Selection customers. Customers will also be able to register or renew their vehicle insurance, trade-in used vehicles, as well as engage BMW Financial Services at this 4S.
In conjunction with its official opening, customers who service their BMW vehicles at Millennium Welt Kuala Lumpur North will receive a complimentary service voucher worth RM100, until 31 May 2022 or while stocks last (terms and conditions apply).
BMW Millennium Welt Kuala Lumpur North is open from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm daily, Monday to Saturday, and 10 am to 6 pm on Sundays. It is located at Lot 50009, Off Jalan Kuching, 51200 Kuala Lumpur.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has announced the official retail price of the Mercedes-Benz S580e. Although it was launched in December 2021, the price of this flagship limousine had not yet been confirmed. The locally assembled S580e is priced at RM698,744 (on the road without insurance, and with sales tax exemption).
“The S-Class is the world’s best-selling luxury limousine and we are also pleased that the new S580e will be a locally-assembled variant as its predecessor. This is a testament of our commitment to reinforce our local commitment to expand our local foothold in the country. The vehicle underpins our claim to produce the best automobile in the world. This is where covetable luxury meets the greatest possible safety and highest level of comfort,” said Michael Jopp, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
To recap, the S80e is a plug-in hybrid powered by a combination of a 3.0L inline-6 engine and electric motor. The rated output is 270 kW (367 hp) and 500 Nm. The electric motor is rated at 110 kW and 440 Nm. Its all-electric range is claimed at about 100 km. The power is transferred to the wheels by a 9-speed 9G-Tronic transmission.
The point of a luxurious limousine isn’t so much the power it has but the user experience. Mercedes-Benz has designed the cabin to be comfortable and relaxing. This new generation’s interior has evolved into a “third place”, a refuge between the home and workplace.
Using inspiration from interior architecture and yacht design, there is a systematic reduction in the number of controls for a minimalist appearance. Alongside 5 screens, the highlights include Anthracite open-pore poplar wood trim and the class-leading Burmester 3D surround sound system.
The seats are designed with a flowing, 3-dimensional layer that gives an impression of lightness with its nappa leather upholstery. A new feature is the heat-able additional cushion for the head restraint, which is available for the two electrically adjustable rear seats. 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. Multiple motors in the front seats also make for comfortable seating position.
Providing more than comfort, the seats also play a major part with safety. The new S-Class features the world’s first rear airbags, which 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.
User experience is also enhanced by the 2nd generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) which offers artificial intelligence support for safety, driving assistance and infotainment. The 5 large OLED screens make controlling vehicle and comfort functions even easier. The system now features fingerprint scanning for security and privacy.
Additionally, the new display for the driver has a 3-dimensional effect. 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 capable of deep learning and connected to the Mercedes me app. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword “Hey Mercedes”, such as accepting a telephone call. “Hey Mercedes” now also explains vehicle functions and answers general knowledge questions. In the S-Class the voice assistant can also be controlled from the rear.
Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognises 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 seat belt is not fastened, for example.
Resulting from systematic development is a driving assistance system that is taking another step closer to autonomous driving. For example, thanks to improved environmental sensors, the parking systems give the driver even better support when maneuvering at low speed. The integration into MBUX means that the level of visualisation has now entered a whole new dimension.
The Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE system can prepare the occupants for a side-on collision and reduce the risk of injury. It pushes the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone towards the inside of the car. The impulse is created by the movement of the seat side bolsters in the front backrests. Beneath the upholstery there is a balloon which is activated pyrotechnically, similar to an airbag. In the event of an imminent side collision being detected, a gas generator fills the balloon in an extremely short time. As a result the seat side bolster is drawn inwards and transfers the momentum on the occupants towards the middle of the vehicle and away from the impact zone. The PRE-SAFE Impulse Side works in conjunction with the other restraint systems such as the seat belts. This also applies to the side impact airbags and window airbags which are deployed in accidents of greater severity.
Furthermore, intelligent body shell design and innovations in restraint systems confirm the leading role of the S-Class when it comes to passive safety. The new aluminum hybrid body shell with an aluminum content exceeding 50% meets numerous requirements: A high level of crash safety, lower weight and a highly rigid body shell ensure outstanding handling characteristics accompanied by excellent noise and vibration comfort.
Cabin comfort is also enhanced by the extensive airflow simulations to further improvements in aeroacoustics. The high rigidity of the body shell also provides the basis for outstanding noise and vibration comfort, and this is enhanced with fine-tuning. For example, the apertures for the cable grommets in the firewall have double seals. 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. Mercedes-Benz also uses acoustic foam in certain body shell sections for the first time.
The brand’s commitment to sustainability has also resulted in the use of over 98 kg worth of components being made from resource-conserving materials. The number of components containing recyclates is now 120, more than twice of the preceding model. About another 40 kg are made from renewable raw materials. The process of environmentally compatible development with specific targets is firmly embedded in the overall development process. Environmental aspects are already taken into account in the conceptual phase.
In addition, a new recycled thread is used for the floor coverings. This ECONYL thread consists of regenerated Nylon. It is manufactured by recovering Nylon waste destined for the landfill, for example old fish nets and fabric remnants from mills and carpets. These are collected and transformed into a new thread having the same properties as nylon from new raw materials. The recycling process used to produce the thread saves CO2 in comparison with new production. It also enables Mercedes-Benz to keep materials in circulation.
Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is kicking off Volkswagen Tour 2022 with the first roadshow happening at 1 Utama Shopping Centre from 23 (today) to 27 February.
The event is at the Centre Court (Ground Floor) of the Old Wing and will be from 10 am – 10 pm for the duration of the roadshow.
You can be sure that the recently launched all-new VW Golf R-Line and GTI will be on display. Locally assembled at Pekan, this new Mk 8 generation comes with improved performance, enhanced digitalisation, and more intuitive controls.
Other crowd favourites on display are the flagship Arteon R-Line 4MOTION, as well the world’s best-selling mid-sized sedan – Passat R-Line and Passat Elegance, and the Tiguan Allspace Highline. Test drives are also available for selected Volkswagen models.
To ensure the safety of everyone, the roadshow will be organised in strict adherence to all Government standard operating procedures (SOPs) and #SafeHands measures.
“These achievements demonstrate the continuation of our robust footprint and growth in Malaysia, as well as our ability in positioning ourselves to harness the opportunities whilst tackling the challenges amidst a pandemic-laden market situation. It is also particularly significant given how this situation had caused supply chain disruptions such as scarcity of raw materials which has impacted production in the trucking industry,” he added.
“Our dealers have a closely established rapport with our customers and were able to constantly gather feedback about the customers’ business situation and trucking solutions requirements. With these crucial ‘on-ground’ market information, our sales and aftersales teams could identify what are the gaps and work towards maintaining the strength of their respective operations for the benefit of our customers,” said Atsunori Murata, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Over the past 2 years, Isuzu Malaysia had rolled out several strategic initiatives including partnering with new dealers and opening of new centers, introduction of new product innovations such as the ELF range with Isuzu Safety Plus for greater safety and efficiency, as well as on-time truck delivery to customers. The company said all these had helped in meeting the trucking needs of customers and enhancing their satisfaction which are pivotal in maintaining the brand’s robust truck sales and market-leading position.
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