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In today’s world, clean air is becoming more of a luxury. And when luxury is mentioned, Rolls-Royce comes to mind. The engineers at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars have developed a Micro Environment Purification System (MEPS) to elevate the air quality within its existing motor cars to unprecedented levels of purity.

The full suite of MEPS hardware and software improvements will debut in the new Rolls-Royce Ghost, which slated for an autumn 2020 reveal. MEPS uses the latest sensor and Nanofleece filtration technology to create the cleanest micro environment possible in any motor car. The Nanofleece filter is an ultra-fine mesh filter with gaps measuring not more than 150 nanometers. This system further complements the sense of oasis created by the design and material substance afforded by Rolls-Royce interior environments.

Since 2015, all Rolls-Royce motor cars have benefited from state-of-the-art air filtration equipment to protect its clients from harmful microscopic particles such as carbon, pollen, as well as pathogens, viruses and bacteria.

Rolls-Royce_Rear_Air Vents_ConsoleHighly sensitive Impurity Detection Sensors have been introduced to detect ambient air quality, automatically switching fresh air intakes to Recirculation Mode if unacceptable levels of airborne contaminants are present. This channels all cabin air through a Nanofleece filter, which is capable of removing nearly all ultra-fine particles, viruses and bacteria from the Rolls-Royce’s micro environment in less than two minutes.

Following the initial implementation of this technology, clients in future will be able to remotely pre-condition the micro environment within their Rolls-Royce via the vehicle’s app in preparation for their arrival.

MINI Malaysia has introduced the MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition in limited numbers. And just like our very own sidewalks, this will also be a rarity. Only 20 units of this exclusive variant will be made available in Malaysia. This limited release is a tribute to the original 2007 Sidewalk Edition from the first generation of the MINI Convertible.

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition_Roof Down“Since the introduction of the highly-anticipated MINI Convertible in Malaysia last year, we are pleased to expand the thrilling open-top driving segment with the New MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition. The epitome of style and spontaneity, this limited-edition variant takes the fun of sun-drenched, wind-in-the-hair motoring to the next level,” said Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

 

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition_Bonnet Stripe_LED HeadlightThere is only one exterior colour choice for this Sidewalk Edition, and it is the expressive Deep Laguna blue finish. The sporty stripes on the bonnet stripes are embellished with a geometric pattern, and put an individual spin on that iconic MINI Convertible look. Meanwhile, the powered black soft-top features an interwoven “Sidewalk” chevron pattern in Titanium Grey.

 

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition_Scissor Spoke Alloy WheelThe MINI Yours soft-top opens within 18 seconds even with the car moving at up to 30 km/h. The convertible roof features the hallmark Z-folding style that operates in 3 stages: fully down, fully up, or halfway in-between to let the breeze in. The 17″ light-alloy Scissor Spoke 2-tone wheels of the Sidewalk Edition are also a model-specific design feature, and complete the exterior look.

The Sidewalk Edition interior features exclusive MINI Yours Leather Lounge Sidewalk seats in Anthracite, combined with contrasting seams in Petrol and Energetic Yellow. The blue Petrol effect also embellish the door and interior trims, with doormats in matching dark Petrol surrounds, and Energetic Yellow stitching are also standard to the variant.MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition_Interior_Cabin

Further, the sports steering wheel bears the Sidewalk logo, which is also found on the seats, side scuttles and door kick plates.

The MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition has the standard features such as LED headlamps, LED front and rear fog lamps, interior lighting package with 12 ambient colours, as well as automatic air conditioning, height-adjustable front passenger seat, MINI Driving Modes, and a storage compartment package.

MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition_Interior_Steering Wheel_Dashboard_MINI Visual BoostAdditionally, the range-topping Wired Package is included. This consists of a 8.8″ MINI Visual Boost display with Navigation System. This MINI Visual Boost can be operated via the intuitive touchscreen, the MINI controller or Voice Control.

Apple iPhone owners will also be able to connect to the MINI Visual Boost, through Apple CarPlay, to gain access to numerous features on the phone. Further, the wireless charger in the armrest will ensure mobile phones are always topped up.

Music can be enjoyed in the Sidewalk Edition by way of the 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Thanks to the perfectly positioned high-performance speakers, music of all genres can be enjoyed to the fullest.

With MINI Connected, you get built-in 4G SIM technology which enables Intelligent Emergency Call with automatic detection of vehicle location and accident severity, as well as MINI Online and MINI TeleServices. The current version of the MINI Connected app also offers an exceptionally wide range of digital services such as sending navigation destinations from smartphone to vehicle and receiving information regarding the ideal departure time, as well as Remote Services.

In terms of power, the 2.0L four-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo engine, paired with a seven-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with double clutch, provides 192 hp and 280 Nm of torque. This model is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 230 km/h. Official average fuel consumption stands at 5.7 litres per 100 km.

The New MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition is available how at a retail price of RM285,899.47 (RM295,888 without the sales tax exemption). The price quoted is on-the-road for personal registration and without insurance.

The car is available at selected authorised MINI dealerships nationwide as well as the MINI Online Shop (http://shop.mini.my/booking/mini-convertible-sidewalk).

MINI Roadside Assistance

The MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition is covered by MINI Malaysia’s 5 Years Roadside Assistance programme, available for all new MINI vehicles with a comprehensive list of services that includes 24-Hour, 365-days-a-year Accident and Help on the Phone and On the Spot Hotline, Free Towing Services when needed (over 200 km from residential home), Replacement Vehicle, Seamless Mobility, Accommodation, Mobility Services Solutions as well as Repatriation services.

The MINI Roadside Assistance programme can be accessed by contacting 1800-88-8808.

MINI Service Online

The new online service programme will now allow you to schedule your servicing needs directly at your preferred MINI Authorised Dealerships via https://service.mini.my/

MINI Financing

BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia offers a Balloon Financing option that enables ownership of the MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition starting from RM3,266 per month (based on estimate of 80% loan for a five-year tenure).

More information on the MINI Convertible Sidewalk Edition can be found at www.mini.my.

Gallery:

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has added a modified C-Class variant to its popular range i.e. the Mercedes-Benz C 200 AMG Line.

Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line_2.0L Turbo EngineThe Mercedes-Benz C 200 AMG Line comes with the new 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 204 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via the 9-speed 9G-Tronic transmission. The C 200 AMG Line is capable of accelerating from 0 – 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, while the official top speed is 250 km/h.

 

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia_Michael Jopp“The C-Class has been one of the best sellers in our vehicle range, with more than 20,000 vehicles sold to date, since its introduction in 2014. The localised C-Class itself has been well-accepted by our customers. As part of our continuous commitment to the local market, the premium mid-sized limousine model, the C 200 is upgraded with AMG line together with a host of enhancement including an even more dynamic engine, sports suspension, state-of-the-art digital infotainment system and Mercedes me connect. This model will further cater to the individual requirements of our esteemed customers,” says Michael Jopp, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

The C 200 AMG Line has a retail price of RM251,587.39 (on-the-road without insurance, until the end of the tax-free incentive period)

Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line_Exterior-1The AMG Line exterior gives the C 200 a more commanding sporty appearance. The exterior’s expressive character is accentuated by the new diamond radiator grille integrated with the Mercedes star and pins in chrome, AMG front apron with sporty air intake and chrome trim element and AMG diffuser-look rear apron with insert in black. Connected to the sports suspension set-up are new 18″ AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels to further enhance the sporty appearance.

The cabin is also dressed in AMG Line bits. This includes ARTICO leather upholstery, galvanised steering wheel gearshift paddles and AMG sports pedals. Other notable interior features are Anthracite open-pore oak wood trim elements, analogue clock, 3-spoke multi-function sport steering wheel in nappa leather, powered front seats with memory function, ambient lighting and roller sunblinds for the rear doors.

Like its predecessor, safety features in the new C 200 include the Active Brake Assist, PRE-SAFE and Blind Spot Assist. The Active Brake Assist system contributes towards minimising the danger of a rear-end collision and mitigating the consequences of an accident. Concurrently, the Mercedes-Benz PRE-SAFE system works to prepare and protect passengers before an accident happens.

Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line__Front WheelThe PRE-SAFE system is able to sense when an unavoidable collision is about to happen and prepares the passengers by tightening the front seat belts, adjusting front head restraints and even closes all open windows. Meanwhile, the Blind Spot Assist works as an electronic look-over-your-shoulder. A red triangle in the side mirror will light up when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. If the driver fails to notice the red triangle and indicates to change lanes, the system emits an audible warning signal. This feature is active from a speed of 30km/h up to the vehicle’s maximum speed.

Other safety features include Park Assist with Parktronic, cruise control, adaptive brake lights and tyre pressure monitoring system.

Further, the new C 200 AMG Line is now equipped with Mercedes me connect, the newest generation of connectivity that helps Mercedes-Benz owners to stay connected and in sync with their vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz_Mercedes me Connect_App_PhoneThe connected car service is made to make the lives of Mercedes-Benz owners easier and at ease. The service is capable of unlocking the car, starting the engine remotely, getting customer support or checking the fuel level. Other features of the Mercedes me connect includes Mercedes–Benz emergency call system (E-call), remote vehicle diagnostics, pre-entry climate control, predictive navigation, and parked vehicle locator.

To enjoy the services, users are required to register and set up their personal Mercedes me account at https://www.mercedes-benz.com.my/mercedes-me or via the Mercedes me app, available for iOS or Android. Authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers will then pair the Mercedes me account to the vehicle and to further activate the services.

Financing Options

Mercedes-Benz financing is tailored to give you exceptional values and care. It allows you to enjoy lower monthly instalments, flexible end of agreement options, a guaranteed future value of your car and a MobilityPlus replacement car programme*.

The EaseProtect Financing starts from RM2,988** per month and comes with Comprehensive Motor Insurance along with Tyre & Rim Insurance for the first year of ownership. Perfectly tailored for the individual who seeks value, unrivalled benefits and peace of mind at the wheel.

For more details call 1-800-88-1133 or speak to a Finance and Insurance Executive at your nearest Mercedes-Benz Autohaus.

*A guaranteed Mercedes-Benz replacement car when yours is sent for service and maintenance, warranty claims, or accident repairs for 48 hours or more.

**Monthly instalment above is calculated based on 5 years tenure and down payment of approximately 20%. Terms and conditions apply.

Pic: Volvo Buses

Volvo Buses will be supplying electric buses to the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia. Four Volvo Electric Buses will be delivered to the PTA as part of the existing 900 Bus Supply Agreement between Volvo and Transperth. The agreement, which was signed in March 2019, includes provisions for the introduction of alternative powered vehicles into the public transport bus network when the technology became available in Volvo’s Australian product line.

Hakan Agnevall_President of Volvo Buses“Volvo aims to be a leader in electrification and to be a partner for cities that wish to implement long-term sustainable public transport solutions for their inhabitants. We have been successful in Europe and in the Americas with electrified public transport solutions and we are now looking forward to bring our first electric buses in to Australia,” says Håkan Agnevall, President of Volvo Buses.

Introducing alternate technologies is nothing new for PTA and Volvo. When Volvo came to market with their hybrid buses in 2013, the two parties conducted a successful trial of the bus in Perth, which not only allowed Volvo to prove the concept, but grow hybrid bus sales across Australia.

Pic: Volvo Buses
Pic: Volvo Buses

“We are excited to be partnering with PTA in Perth for our first electric buses in Australia. Our relationship with the PTA now spans over a decade and in years to come the city of Perth will indeed be a Volvo city with 100% of the bus fleet being Volvo. Volvo’s contract with PTA included a technology roadmap that allowed PTA to access diesel, self-charging electric and battery-electric vehicles over time. PTA can access the variety of tools available to them and match the technology to the route and need,” said David Mead, Vice President Volvo Buses Asia Pacific.

“Trialing new, green technology is a great use of our public transport network, already one of the most environmentally friendly ways to get around Perth,” said Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti.

“This is the first time we have trialled electric buses on a CAT route and I’m excited to see what commuters think about this new technology,” she said.

Pic: Volvo Buses
Pic: Volvo Buses

The units will be all-electric 11.7-metre long, 2.5 metre wide vehicles. The bus bodies will be a local Australian designed and will be built by Volgren Australia. While these units will be the first of their kind for Volvo in the Asia-Pacific region, the chassis is based on established Volvo technology already implemented in Europe.

“The Volvo electric driveline has been well proven as the backbone for our complete electric buses in Europe. By delivering the product in chassis form, we can work with long term partners such as Volgren to assemble the bus here in Australia. It also has allowed us to create new climate options for the vehicle, more suited to Australian conditions,” said David Mead.

While handover of the first electric buses to the PTA is not scheduled until late next year, the planning is well underway. Implementing electric vehicles involves many more stakeholders than a traditional bus sale; the planning for this project had started last year.

“This project is about much more than the buses. We have worked with the PTA on a number of areas including simulating the routes to create our charging strategy, charging infrastructure, understanding capital works needs in the depot, training of staff, safety elements, certification and standards compliance. That means we are creating a scalable, end to end implementation plan that can be replicated in the future,” added David Mead.

The full commercialisation of the localised electric bus solution for Australia is targeted for 2022.

The Porsche 718 Cayman family is set to grow with the introduction of two range-topping members. This week, Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the importer of Porsche in Malaysia, will be digitally premiering the most powerful members of the 718 family.

The digital premiere is scheduled to take place tomorrow (Thursday, 16 July 2020) at 8:00 pm. These powerful mid-engine performance GT models will take centrestage on the Porsche dealer website platforms.

About the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder

For the first time, these two particularly emotional and powerful top models that claim the top spots in the 718 series range share the same technical base. Despite this, both these models possess fundamentally different concept and characteristics. But undoubtedly both the 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder promise to provide performance and driving experiences that only a thoroughbred mid-engine sports car can offer.Porsche 718 Cayman GT4_718 Spyder_Key Visual

Providing the grunt to the car is a 4.0L horizontally opposed six cylinder engine which generates a mighty 420 PS; 35 PS more than the previous model. The maximum torque of 420 Nm peaks from 5,000 to 6,800 rpm, with engine speed capable of touching 8,000 rpm. The new 718 Cayman GT4 and 718 Spyder is capable of sprinting from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. The maximum speed: above 300km/h.

Porsche Centre_Showroom_Sime Darby Auto PerformanceThe digital premiering will start on Thursday, 16 July 2020 at 8:00 pm (Malaysia). To find out more and to watch the scheduled online broadcast, visit any of the Porsche dealer websites below:

The 2020 Toyota GR Supra, the first global model to be developed by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, has received some updates. In line with the Kaizen spirit, which is the Japanese philosophy of constant improvement, the 2020 GR Supra now sports upgraded powertrain performance.

Toyota GR Supra_A90_3.0L Turbo EngineSpecifically, the 3.0L engine now has additional output to deliver better performance numbers and reward drivers of all skill levels. The upgrades centre around the turbocharged inline-six engine which now delivers 388 PS at between 5,800 and 6,500 rpm, a 14% increase. Maximum torque though, remains at 500 Nm, but peaks at a slightly wider range of 1,800 rpm – 5,000 rpm instead of the previous 1,600 rpm – 4,500 rpm.

The engineers managed to increase the power output not only by tuning but also by adding a new dual-branch exhaust manifold with 6 ports (instead of two) to improve heat management. Additionally, a new piston design has also reduced the engine’s compression ratio from 11:1 to 10.2:1.

The improved engine with the raised torque band still retains the eagerness to rev with turbine-like smoothness. Still carrying the standard ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, the 0 – 100 km/h acceleration time from is now two-tenths of a second quicker, shortened to 4.1 seconds from 4.3 seconds.

Complementing the extra power are some chassis improvements aimed at increasing roll resistance and enhanced cornering stability. Taking note of feedback from high-performance drivers, the updated GR Supra has received a re-tuning of the chassis with a new Performance Rod added to increase lateral rigidity.

Toyota GR Supra_A90 IMP_Red Brake Caliper_Wheel Cap_2020Other than the fitment of red brake calipers with the Supra logo at the front, other technical specifications and features remain the same. Also standard on the GR Supra are the Adaptive Variable Suspension and Electronically-Controlled Limited-Slip Differential (LSD).

The Deep Blue Metallic exterior finish is no longer available but buyers can still choose from the other seven sporty and striking colours i.e. Prominence Red, Lightning Yellow, White Metallic, Silver Metallic, Ice Grey Metallic, Black Metallic and Matte Storm Grey Metallic.

In terms of safety, Toyota Supra Safety technologies enable drivers to take the car to its limits in safety. These technologies include a variety of active systems which work together to assist the driver when necessary. Additionally, there are features like the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Intelligent Parking Sensor with Emergency Braking Function and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Toyota GR Supra_A90_Cockpit_Steering WheelThe standard interior features of the GR Supra are a blend of luxury and functionality, with a driver-centric approach. For example, there’s a head-up display which allows the driver to keep his eyes on the road ahead while being aware of important operating information. A memory function for the power seat makes it easy to set and retain a preferred seating position. As for entertainment while on those long journeys, the JBL audio system has nothing less than 12 speakers strategically placed around the cabin for the best sound quality.

The 2020 GR Supra is priced from RM589,987 (*with sales tax exemption and without insurance) and RM611,880 (*without sales tax exemption and without insurance).

It is available for booking from selected authorised Toyota GR Garage showrooms nationwide. For further information, you can visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).

The popular Perodua Myvi has received some updates. Previously, only the range-topper 1.5 AV variant is fitted with the Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of driving assistance system. The ASA suite in the Myvi has now been upgraded to the newer ASA 2.0. It is also now available as standard not only in the 1.5 AV but also the 1.5 H variant; and is an option for the 1.3 X.

Perodua Myvi_Advanced Safety Assist_ASA_ButtonsThe ASA system made its debut in the third generation Perodua Myvi in 2017. The system is made up of Pre-Collision Warning (up to 30 km/h), Pre-Collision Braking (up to 30 km/h), Front Departure Alert and Pedal Misoperation Control, all of which work together to mitigate collisions.

 

Perodua_Advanced Safety Assist_ASA_CamerasThe newest version, ASA 2.0, first appeared on the Aruz in 2019 and adds Pedestrian Detection (up to 50 km/h) to the suite and increasing the operational speeds of Pre-Collision Warning and Pre-Collision Braking to 100 km/h and 80 km/h respectively.

ASA 2.0 then made its way into the 2019 Axia and 2020 Bezza, and is now offered in the Myvi. ASA is only a driver assistance system that helps to REDUCE the risk of collisions and is NOT a substitute for safe driving. It is still the responsibility of the driver to be alert and cautious at all times on the road.

Perodua Myvi AV_Electric Blue_Rear ViewAdditionally, there is a new body colour for 2020 i.e. Electric Blue. This new colour is available for all Myvi variants and is an addition to the Ivory White, Glittering Silver, Lava Red and Granite Grey (which is now available for all variants except 1.3 G).

“With the inclusion of ASA 2.0, the Perodua Myvi takes advanced safety to a whole new level at this price point, and it’s now more widely available within the line-up,” said Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

“The latest Myvi carries on the Perodua tradition of bringing advanced safety technology to the people by making it affordable and accessible to all,” he added.

“Check out the updated Perodua Myvi now at any of our sales outlets nationwide – our authorised sales advisors will be only too happy to assist you and answer your queries on the latest version of Malaysia’s best-selling car!” Dato’ Zainal said.

The price list for the Myvi range:Perodua Myvi_Price List_2020The Perodua Myvi comes with a five year / 150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first).

 

 

The Mitsubishi XM Concept Crossover MPV

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia_Xpander_SpottedThe internet is full of information, if you know where to look. And from that haystack of data, some needles were found. There are a couple of recent photos of the Mitsubishi Xpander being loaded on a flatbed tow truck at what appears to be the compound of a Mitsubishi Motors facility in Malaysia (there are several other Mitsubishi models in the area).

Earlier in the year, there were photos circulating of a Mitsubishi Xpander being inspected at an assembly area, allegedly located in Malaysia. The only known facilities which assemble Mitsubishi Motors vehicles here are in Kuala Lumpur and Pekan. It is likely to be Pekan as it looks to be a larger facility; the Kuala Lumpur facility is an outsourced assembly plant.

Pic: credit to owner
Pic: credit to owner

Anyway, the Xpander seen in those photos is that of the facelifted version. It features the updated front grille and a dual-layer fascia with redesigned three-segment headlight cluster in the front bumper, similar to the more SUV-styled Xpander Cross variant. Since this is the facelift version, the headlights should be LEDs, although the fog lights clearly are not. The LED daytime running lights flank the grille. And like all current Mitsubishis, the brand’s Dynamic Shield face is very prominent.

The Xpander is a 7-seater MPV based on the XM concept. It has a wheelbase of 2,775 mm with a body that is 4,475 mm (l) x 1,750 mm (w) x 1,695 mm (h). The Xpander is already on sale in neighbouring Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines where it has quite a following. As this is an entry-level 7-seater MPV / SUV, its price should be within the range of the Toyota Avanza, Perodua Aruz and Honda BR-V.

The Mitsubishi Xpander is powered by a 1.5L MIVEC engine with output of 103 hp and 141 Nm of torque. And since it plays in the same budget-friendly playground, that power will be transferred to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission.

We assume an official launch in Malaysia will happen soon, judging from these leaked photos.

L-R:  Jaffar Abu Bakar, Group Managing Director of Chemtrax Sdn Bhd receiving the mock key from Mitch Peden, Managing Director, Volvo Trucks Malaysia.
L-R: Jaffar Abu Bakar, Group Managing Director of Chemtrax Sdn Bhd receiving the mock key from Mitch Peden, Managing Director, Volvo Trucks Malaysia.

Johor-based transportation company, Chemtrax Sdn Bhd, has bought five units of FM series Volvo trucks for its use in transporting hazardous cargo. The company recently took delivery of the trucks from Volvo Trucks Malaysia, comprising four units of FM370 4×2 and one unit of FM440 6×2. The five trucks are part of the company’s plan to replace its older trucks as well as for fleet expansion. These new trucks will be used for transporting caustic soda chemical compounds and butadiene gas. Caustic soda is generally used in the production of soap, paper, petroleum products, etc, while butadiene gas is normally used in the production of polymers and synthetic rubber.

This new addition of five trucks puts the total of Volvo trucks owned by Chemtrax at 55. Thus the Volvo brand makes up 90% of the company’s fleet of trucks.

Volvo Trucks Malaysia_Managing Director_Mitch Peden“We are very pleased to be able to continuously provide the support our customer, Chemtrax, requires from us with the delivery of the new trucks despite the current challenging market situation,” said Mitch Peden, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks Malaysia. Volvo Trucks made the delivery official recently at a vehicle handover ceremony at Chemtrax’s depot in Pasir Gudang, Johor.

“The Volvo FM series is the ideal and flexible vehicle for long and short haul distribution, and is adaptable to suit almost any transport assignment. We are confident that this truck’s first-class driving features will provide Chemtrax with great transport efficiency, reliability and safety for the sustainability of its business,” Peden added.

Chemtrax was established in 1998 and is one of the leading transportation companies in Malaysia that specialises in transporting hazardous chemicals and gas products such as acids, alkalis, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), water-based chemicals and other flammable and toxic gases.

The company transports these products within Malaysia and Singapore using various types of road tankers such as stainless steel tanker, special lined tanker and high-pressured gas tanker in accordance with the diverse and strict requirements for each hazardous material it transports.

Volvo FM_Chemtrax_Jaffar Abu Bakar_Group Managing DirectorSpeaking at the truck handover ceremony, Jaffar Abu Bakar, Group Managing Director of Chemtrax Sdn Bhd said, “We have more than 20 years of experience in handling hazardous materials and have been providing transportation services to companies like Petronas, CCM Chemicals, Kaneka, Solar Gaz and other global companies like IVICT, INEOS and Synthomer. These companies all subscribe to very stringent global standards of safety which we are highly committed to.”

He added that the company’s transport routes consist of both long and short haul deliveries all over Peninsula Malaysia, as well as Singapore, with around 15 trips daily into the island republic.

“The hazardous nature of the materials we transport neccesitates us to constantly ensure that safety remains at the forefront of our business. As we are steadfast in our commitment to fully comply to international standards of safety and quality, we do require robust trucks to help us maintain our standards and ensure on-time deliveries to our clients,” said Jaffar.

Volvo FM Trucks_Chemtrax Fleet“We have been steadily adding Volvo trucks in our fleet for over a decade now. Volvo Trucks has always been the preferred choice of our drivers, thanks to its comfortability especially for long haul assignments which helps to reduce driver fatigue. We are very satisfied with the truck’s fuel efficiency for both short and long haul trips. The on-dash alerts provide early warning for us to detect if there is any issue with the truck, and that facilitates effective repair and maintenance,” he explained.

He further said that the new Volvo FM trucks will be able to provide a high utilisation rate due to the truck’s advanced features that boost performance, safety and fuel-efficiency. The truck’s great manoeuvrability and the inclusion of Volvo’s driver training sessions have also helped Chemrax attract and retain good drivers, therefore providing stability to its business.

Hairul Bin Anuar, Senior Manager, Business Development (4th from left) with the Operations Team of Chemtrax.
Hairul Bin Anuar, Senior Manager, Business Development (4th from left) with the Operations Team of Chemtrax.

“Maintaining the uptime and productivity of our trucks is extremely crucial in our line of business. Therefore, having a consistently reliable aftermarket support from our truck partner is also very important to us, to our drivers and to our customers. With Volvo’s level of support and parts availability, we have been able to significantly minimise truck downtime and business risk. Our aim is to continue to be the preferred choice of transporter amongst chemical and gas manufacturers in Malaysia, thus the trucks we buy play a crucial role,” said Jaffar.

Peden added, “Volvo Trucks is extremely proud of our working relationship with Chemtrax who is also committed to safety, sustainability and efficiency. With the increasing need for transportation services to move goods for societies and industries, this also means that transport has to become even more sustainable, more reliable and safer. We are grateful that Chemtrax has entrusted Volvo Trucks with the tasks of transporting hazardous materials and we are committed to making sure our trucks deliver on our brand promise.”

Honda Malaysia has announced the official opening of its newest 3S Centre operated by Elmina Motors Sdn Bhd. Located in Shah Alam, in the vicinity of Denai Alam, Subang Bestari and Sunway Kayangan, it is strategically placed to provide good accessibility and convenience to the customers in the surrounding areas. This is also the 28th Honda 3S Centre in the Central region, and its opening helps to increase coverage of after-sales services as well.

Honda 3S Dealership_Service Centre_Work BaysElmina Motors had invested RM21.8 million in the new Honda 3S Centre, which sits on an 85,377 sq ft area and is equipped with the latest facilities complying to Honda standard. The facility includes 20 Bays, consisting of 12 Service Bays, 4 General Repair Bays, 2 Tyre Service Bays as well as 1 Air Conditioning Servicing Bay and 1 Electrical Bay. This service centre can accommodate up to 30 cars per day.

Customers can also enjoy a variety of amenities in the new Honda 3S Centre. Available are comfortable lounges, complimentary WiFi, surau, kid’s corner, and free flow of food and beverages from the pantry. The latter two are currently closed during the RMCO period. Elmina Motors also offers other convenient services for customers including car wash service, road tax renewal and insurance coverage renewal services.

Honda Malaysia_Showroom_Dealership“Honda Malaysia truly appreciates the efforts and hard work of all Malaysians especially the frontliners to flatten the curve of COVID-19. The sacrifices have paid off as the nation is now in the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) period. We are pleased to see that the customers are following the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) at our dealerships and at the same time, we will continue to adhere to all health measures in our facilities and practise social distancing at all times. In view of the Government’s strategies in resuming businesses, we believe the new Honda 3S Centre will contribute to Honda Malaysia’s effort to support the nation’s economy. The timing is opportune as it also provides another conveniently-located Honda showroom for customers to visit and test drive any Honda model, especially the three exciting models that we launched this year, namely the All-New Accord, New Civic and New BR-V. This is even more impeccable with the price reductions for Honda models after the announcement of the sales tax exemption by the Government of Malaysia,” said Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Toichi Ishiyama.

Honda Malaysia_3S Centre_Dealership_Showroom_Aftersales_Reception_Sales Advisors_Service AdvisorsHonda Malaysia believes the opening of this new Honda 3S Centre can support the increase in after-sales service intakes in the Selangor area. In 2019, the company recorded more than 647,100 service intakes in the Central region, an increase of 5.4% year-on-year. With such encouraging growth, Honda Malaysia is continuously working hard to improve in order to provide excellent after-sales services to further elevate customer satisfaction.

Honda Malaysia_Dealership_Hand SanitiserTo safeguard the safety of the customers and Honda associates, customers are advised to make appointment with the dealer before sending their cars for service maintenance during the RMCO period. In line with the implementation of the safety measures and processes at all dealerships, this new Honda 3S Centre also follows preventive protocols that comprise among others, temperature screening, hand sanitising and crowd control.

The Elmina Motors Honda 3S Centre is located at Lot 72292, Jalan Pekan Subang, Kampung Baru Subang, Seksyen U6, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor. It is easily accessible via the Guthrie Corridor Expressway, New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), North-South Expressway (NSE) and the upcoming Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (DASH).

Honda Malaysia_Dealers_Together As One_Corporate Social ResponsibilityCustomers are also welcome to visit Elmina Motors Honda 3S Centre to donate basic necessities to the communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak via the “Honda Dealer Donation Drive” campaign.

To make an appointment or to find out more about the services and facilities, customers can contact Elmina Motors (Honda 3S Centre) at 1300-800-555.

Visit www.honda.com.my for more information.

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