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Volvo Trucks has introduced new truck software functions as well as upgraded engines to help logistics companies and their drivers save fuel, even when cruise control is not activated, in order to help them reduce operational costs. Truck owners can experience fuel savings of up to 3% with the upgraded D13 diesel engines for Euro 3, Euro 4, Euro 5 and EEV (energy efficient vehicles) markets, together with the new software updates.

Volvo Trucks_Cab_Driving_Road“The new software and engine upgrades are introduced to help our customers optimise on fuel consumption and at the same time, save costs. This is important because we understand that fuel costs can make up one of the biggest chunks of a company’s overall operational cost. With today’s challenging business environment, it is understandable that logistics companies everywhere are constantly looking for cost effective ways to operate more efficiently and stay competitive,” said Mitch Peden, Managing Director, Volvo Malaysia.

“Our goal at Volvo Trucks is to offer the most fuel-efficient trucks, anchored with a strategy that revolves around satisfied and productive customers, and these constant upgrades to our trucks portray the strong commitment that we have towards helping our customers’ business succeed,” Peden added.

The upgraded software has a key feature which is called Volvo Torque Assist. This new function is intended to reduce fuel consumption by providing more efficient driving when the cruise control is disabled in long haul operations. By automatically adapting the truck’s torque and acceleration according to the road topography, load and speed changes, this function allows for more fuel-efficient driving. The function is only active when cruise control is not engaged by the driver.

Volvo FH16_Volvo Trucks Malaysia_Heavy DutyAnother supporting function of this feature is that it keeps the amount of injected fuel constant after the engine’s ‘green range’* has been passed. The slightly compromised performance is compensated by improved fuel economy.

Additionally, the pedal map has also been re-calibrated. A less sensitive pedal creates a smoother torque development, which in turn, makes the truck easier to control and maintain vehicle speed.

“The new software gives a more significant result with heavy loads, many slope changes or large speed variations, while drivers transporting lighter loads with constant speed on flat roads will save less fuel. Drivers who are less skilled or trained in economical driving can benefit from these upgrades. In field tests, we have actually seen examples of a larger potential for fuel savings than the 3%,” explains Peter Hardin, Director Product Management at Volvo Truck.

Further, the hardware upgrades in the Euro 6 Step D versions of the D13 engine, released earlier in 2019, are also being used to raise the standards of the Euro 3 to 5 engines. Internal friction has now been reduced with new cylinder liners and new V-shaped oil scraper rings.

The turbo efficiency has also been improved and the engine management system upgraded to a newer version with better capacity. Overall, these hardware upgrades save around 1% fuel, while the fuel saving potential for the new software depends on driver experience and the operating conditions.

Volvo FH Truck Meter Cluster, Malaysia Launch 2017Volvo Trucks believes that smarter and more fuel-efficient trucks are becoming a necessity for ensuring a sustainable future, and that technology, product and human behaviour must work together to make it happen. One of its sustainable initiatives is its driver development programme which has been continuously offered to all customers to help drivers learn about fuel-efficient driving techniques. This programme also educates drivers about the significant correlation of fuel-efficient driving and enhanced safety on the road, and how they play a very important role for the entire ecosystem.

For Malaysia, both the software and hardware upgrades are applicable for new truck orders (the Volvo FH, FM and FMX models).

* In vehicles such as tractors and trucks, the tachometer often has a green arc showing the speed range in which the engine produces maximum torque. The green range of Volvo Trucks can be from 1,050 – 1,600 rpm depending on engine types.

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Triumph Motorcycles has announced the new Daytona Moto2 765 Limited Edition motorcycle, built by the reknowned British motorcycle manufacturer in a unique partnership with FIM MotoGP World Champsionship.

Triumph will launch two versions of the new Daytona on 23 August 2019 i.e. one version for Europe and Asia, and one for USA and Canada. Each version will be limited to 765 bikes (making our title technically misleading), and each bike will come with a serial number.

Triumph Motorcycles_Moto2_Engine Development Prototype BikeBoth will feature a new Moto2 derived 765 cc triple engine which itself is a development of the class-leading Street Triple RS 765 cc road motorcycle and produces more than 140 PS and the same visceral soundtrack. The engine sits within a championship-winning sports-focused chassis, delivering the highest power and torque ever from a production 765cc, plus the highest specification of equipment ever, as well a limited edition race paint scheme.

Reflecting Triumph’s position as the exclusive engine supplier to the Moto2 class of the FIM MotoGP World Championship, and sharing some of the key developments from the race engine programme, both limited edition versions will be revealed at a special press event on Friday, 23 August at the Silverstone circuit, where full specifications and details will be revealed.

Both bikes will also be showcased in a spectacular parade lap over the race weekend, ridden by two former motorcycle world champions.

This new limited edition Daytona delivers the closest you can get to a genuine Moto2 factory ride for the road. And if you want one, remember that only 765 units are available for Europe and Asia.

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Klang, 26 July 2019 -A new Toyota 2S centre has officially opened in Pandamaran, Klang in Selangor. The centre is operated by PS Otomobil (Bukit Tinggi) Sdn Bhd, which has been an authorised dealer since 2015 with a sales outlet in Bukit Tinggi, Klang.

The 2S centre was established following a growth in sales and customer base for PS Otomobil, as well as UMW Toyota Motor’s recognition of the necessity to expand the aftersales network and offer more comprehensive services for Toyota owners in the area.

The 19 service bays at the Toyota 2S centre ensures customers' cars are promptly attended toThe service centre, which will mainly serve customers in the Pandamaran, Bukit Tinggi, Bandar Botanic and surrounding areas, is equipped with 19 service bays manned by trained technical staff, and equipped with diagnostic equipment and the necessary Special Service Tools to maintain Toyota vehicles.

While waiting for their vehicles to be serviced, Toyota owners can relax in the lounge which has amenities for their comfort and convenience.

The Toyota 2S centre is manned by trained personnel equipped with the latest diagnostic toolsUMW Toyota Motor’s President, Ravindran K., commended PS Otomobil (Bukit Tinggi) Sdn Bhd on their commitment to provide Toyota customers with high quality aftersales services. “PS Otomobil (Bukit Tinggi) Sdn Bhd has been our business partner since 2015 and has provided good services to customers. We are delighted to see that with the growth in their business, they have made the decision to upgrade their facilities to enhance their aftersales services. This has truly reflects the Toyota “Customer First” philosophy where priorities and value-added services are prepared for our customers’ convenience,” he said.

PS Otomobil (Bukit Tinggi) Sdn Bhd is located at PT 7420 Jalan Kim Chuan, Pandamaran, 42000 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

For enquiries, please call 03-3323 9398 (Sales) or 03-3385 2381 / 010-396 0468 (Service).

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Kuala Lumpur, 25 July 2019 – Michelin Malaysia has just launched the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV which as the name suggests, is a high performance premium tyre meant for SUVs or Sport Utility Vehicles. According to the Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Brunei, Pascal Nouvellon, the Pilot Sport 4 SUV is an addition to the well established Pilot Sport family and is developed for excellent longevity, remarkable braking performance, dynamic handling and comfortable driving.

The Pilot Sport 4 SUV is developed using the latest motorsport technologies and intelligent enhancements to provide unlimited driving pleasure in total safety. The tyre features an improved tread pattern and a new tyre compound for better grip and wet braking, in line with its tagline: “Out there, you are always in control.”

The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV has an improved tread pattern and new tyre compound for better grip and wet brakingDeveloped with a new compound that incorporates innovative functional elastomers and thin silica, the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV places first in a wet handling test held against other premium tyre brands. It was
up to 5.06 seconds faster to complete the 1,050-metre track than its competitors*. The tyre also places first in dry braking with a recorded distance of up to 2.7 metres shorter than the competitors**. On wet roads, the tyres brake up to 4.9 metres shorter when new and up to 8.5 metres shorter when worn, against competitors**.

The Pilot Sport 4 SUV tread design sports a new asymmetrical groove design that adds more rigidity to the tread pattern, providing excellent grip during dynamic cornering. A hybrid belt made of aramid and nylon also provides dynamic steering responsiveness and driving precision, while a high-density double casing ply increases robustness against road shock damage, thereby increasing its durability and safety. Michelin stated that the tyre longevity is up to 13,000 kilometres more than other premium tyre brands***.

L-R: Walter Guan, Customer Engineering Support; Duy Pham, Marketing Manager, Michelin Malaysia; and Muhammad Arya Subrata, Commercial Director B2B, Michelin Malaysia at the MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyre launch.
L-R: Walter Guan, Customer Engineering Support; Duy Pham, Marketing Manager, Michelin Malaysia; and Muhammad Arya Subrata, Commercial Director B2B, Michelin Malaysia at the MICHELIN Pilot Sport 4 SUV tyre launch.

“We gave the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV a premium touch design of 91% elegant black finishing to equip the SUV with a sporty appeal. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 SUV is also optimized for superior riding comfort and minimal noise to provide our customers with an enhanced driving pleasure like no other,” said Pascal.

The new Pilot Sport 4 SUV is now available at TYREPLUS and Michelin authorised dealers across the nation in 39 sizes, for rims of 17- to 23-inch diameters. Rim protectors are also available on all dimensions.

* External test conducted by TUV SUD product service, on Michelin’s request, in August 2018, on dimension 235/60 R18 on Audi Q5 2.0 TDI on a 1,050m long track.

** External tests conducted by TUV SUD product service, on Michelin’s request, in August and September 2018, on dimension 235/60 R18 on Audi Q5 2.0 TDI comparing NEW and WORN MICHELIN PILOT SPORT 4 SUV versus six other brands of tyres. Worn means worn on machine (buffed) to the depth of Trad Wear Indicator according to the European regulation for Tread Wear Indicator ECE R30r03f.

*** External longevity test conducted by DEKRA TEST CENTER, on Michelin’s request, in August and September 2018, on dimension 235/60 R18 on Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi comparing MICHELIN PILOT SPORT 4 SUV versus six other brands of tyres. Longevity test run in average real usage (D50) with 10,000 km run and extrapolated longevity to 1.6mm.

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Volvo XC40 T5 R-Design Launch, Malaysia 2018Volvo Car Malaysia has announced the appointment of Ingress Swede Automobile Sdn Bhd as its new dealer-partner. As such, the premium car maker will get a new 3S centre (sales, service and spare parts) in Mutiara Damansara, Selangor, which will allow Volvo to better serve its customers in the surrounding areas.

Volvo Car Malaysia is rolling out its plan to strengthen its dealership network across the country and improve overall customer experience – the next phase of the brand’s transformation plan which was kickstarted early this year.

“As a people-centric brand, we would like to ensure that we consistently deliver a premium and holistic experience to our customers throughout their ownership journey,” said Mr Nalin Jain, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.

Volvo Car Malaysia_Ingress Swede Automobile_Dealer-Partner_Principal_Mohd AzemanEchoing the pledge made by Mr Jain, Ingress Swede Automobile’s Dealer Principal, Mr Mohd Azeman Mohamed Akram added that Ingress Corporation Berhad’s expansive automotive background will certainly help realise that promise.

“The auto dealership division of Ingress Corporation Berhad has more than a decade’s worth of history servicing premium segment customers and we are confident that we will be able to meet and exceed expectations,” added Mohd Azeman. Ingress Swede Automobile is a subsidiary of Ingress Corporation Berhad

More details of Ingress Swede Automobile’s new Volvo Cars dealership in Damansara will be announced closer to the launch which is expected to happen within the next couple of months.

For more information about Ingress Swede Automobile, please contact Mr Mohd Azeman Mohamed Akram at azeman@ingress-swede.com.my.

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BMW Malaysia has launched its all-new BMW Z4 open-top roadster in a single variant i.e. sDrive30i M Sport. The premium roadster comes with a retail price of RM479,800 (on the road without insurance), and includes BMW Group Malaysia’s latest 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, Free Scheduled Service Programme and BMW Tyre Warranty Programme.

The All-New BMW Z4 sDrive30i M Sport_Malaysia“BMW has a rich history of creating roadsters that have stood out as icons of pure driving pleasure; from the BMW 315/1 up to the second-generation BMW Z4 Roadster. To this day, both BMW Z3 and the previous generations of the BMW Z4 are among the all-time best-selling two-seater drop-tops in the premium segment. The All-New BMW Z4 is back! More captivating than ever to rewrite a new chapter for BMW in its brand-defining roadster history,” said Mr. Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

The premium roadster has grown significantly in length by 85 mm (4,324 mm), width by 74 mm (1,864 mm) and height by 13 mm (1,304 mm), compared to its predecessor. The wider track provides for more stable and agile cornering while the shorter wheelbase gives the car a smaller turning circle. The lower and more centralised centre of gravity also contributes to sportier handling.

The All-New BMW Z4_sDrive30i M Sport_Front Grille_MalaysiaOn the outside, the BMW Z4 sports the new kidney grille design with an intricate grid structure and is now positioned closer to the road. The LED headlights which are vertically arranged feature tubes uniquely designed in a hexagonal pattern, and the slim light strips in the inner edge of the headlight function as indicators. At the rear, the slim single-unit 3D tail lights and distinctive integrated rear spoiler, coupled with its low-slung body and low reversing light lends to a sleeker appeal.

BMW Z4 sDrive30i M Sport_Roadster_Engine_MalaysiaA 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine sits in the engine bay, offering 258 hp and a peak torque of 400 Nm from 1,550 to 4,400 rpm. Channeled through an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, this power propels the Z4 from standstill to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds; top speed is limited to 250 km/h. The roadster is also equipped with a dynamic rear-wheel drive system, variable sport steering and M Sport suspension. Meanwhile, the low centre of gravity and equal front-to-rear weight distribution helps to emphasise its classic BMW roadster characteristics.

BMW Z4 sDrive30i M Sport_Roadster_Gear Lever_iDrive Controller_MalaysiaAs a sporty two-seater roadster, the inside of the BMW Z4 has a driver-focused cockpit design. A canvas roof, minimalist interior trim surfaces and a low seating position completes the classic roadster feel.

Essential controls are grouped into ‘function islands’ for convenience, and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional is strategically placed at the same level as the central touchscreen information display to supplement the driver with information directly within the line of vision.

BMW Z4_Roadster_LED Headlight_MalaysiaOne of the modern conveniences is the BMW Digital Key that enables the driver to access the vehicle with the use of select Android smartphones. The Digital Key uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to allow the roadster to be locked and unlocked with a smartphone. The smartphone simply has to be held up to the door handle to unlock the door. Once inside, the engine can be started as soon as the phone is placed on the Wireless Charging or smartphone tray. Via the BMW Connected App, the Digital Key enables the driver to share the key with up to five people.

The All-New BMW Z4_sDrive30i M Sport_Roadster_MalaysiaAlso offered is the Intelligent Parking Assistant featuring the Reversing Assistant. The Parking Assistant helps drivers easily manoeuvre out of tight parking spots. When activated, the Park Assist can park the vehicle in spaces parallel or perpendicular to the road. Further, the new Reversing Assist provides added support when navigating in narrow spaces. The intuitive system remembers the last 50 metres of the drive to the parking space and will use that knowledge to assist the driver in exiting the spot by taking over the wheel.

The All-New BMW Z4_Roadster_Malaysia_2019Owners of the new BMW Z4 can also look forward to the Connected Package Professional to include more futuristic enhancements to their vehicle or add on more features from the ConnectedDrive store after the purchase.

The exterior colour options available are: San Francisco Red, Misano Blue, Black Sapphire and Alpine White, matched with interior options of Black décor with Black stitching, Magma Red with Black stitching or Cognac with Black stitching.

BMW Z4 owners will experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes:

  • BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program
  • BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services
  • BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
  • The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card
  • BMW Service Online

Additionally, BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia is offering the Balloon Financing Plan for the BMW Z4 with monthly instalment plans starting from RM5,478 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure).

Visit www.bmwbethefirst.com.my to book one, or check it out at any authorised BMW dealership.

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(from left to right) Dr. Joerg Breuer, Chief Executive Officer, PEUGEOT THAILAND, Ms. Jerdnapang Thamchuanviriya, Group Chief Financial Officer, MGC-ASIA, Mrs Laurence Noel, Senior Vice President Asean, Groupe PSA, H.E. Mr. Jacques Lapouge, The Ambassador of France to Thailand, Ms. Ratana Thamchuanviriya, President, MGC-ASIA, Dr. Sunhavut Thamchuanviriya, Group Chief Executive Officer, MGC-ASIA, Ms. Sukolkarn Thamchuanviriya, Executive Director, MGC-ASIA, Mr Jean-Christophe Calandot, Head of Sales and Marketing Asean, Groupe PSA

Bangkok, Thailand, 25 July 2019 – Peugeot has a new partner in Thailand, following the appointment of Belfort Automobiles (Thailand), which is a subsidiary of the Master Group Corporation (Asia) Co. Ltd.. With this appointment, Belfort Automobiles is the new exclusive importer and distributor of Peugeot brand cars in Thailand.

The signing ceremony took place at the French Embassy in Bangkok and was witnessed by H.E. Mr. Jacques Lapouge, the Ambassador of France to Thailand.

Peugeot 5008_SUV_MalaysiaPeugeot plans to introduce at least five new models in Thailand over the next couple of years. Two of which will be SUVs – the Peugeot 3008 and Peugeot 5008. These two models are currently produced in the Naza Automotive Manufacturing (NAM) plant in Gurun, Kedah. Groupe PSA which owns the Peugeot brand has a joint venture agreement with Naza Corporation Holdings to establish the first manufacturing hub in ASEAN for Groupe PSA.

Naza Automotive Manufacturing plant in Gurun KedahThis is a milestone for Groupe PSA in ASEAN where Peugeot now operates in 11 countries, as well as for NAM which has begun exporting its first production to the Philippines followed by Thailand within the next few weeks.

MGC-ASIA is one of the leading automotive retailers and mobility companies in Thailand, and Groupe PSA hopes that this new partnership will accelerate its development in the region.

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L-R: Ms. Kym Looe, Director, Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd; Mr. Toichi Ishiyama, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd; YBhg. Dato’ Lim Si Boon, Chairman, Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd; Mr. Sarly Adle Sarkum, President & Chief Operating Officer, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd at the official launch.

Honda 3S Centre_Ban Hoe Seng (Auto)_Chemor_Perak_MalaysiaHonda Malaysia has opened a new 3S Centre that is certified by Green Building Index (GBI), the first car dealership in the country to be awarded such certification. GBI is recognised in Malaysia as a green rating tool for buildings to promote sustainability and environmental awareness among the various industries, designers, planners, etc.

This new Honda 3S Centre is operated by Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd and is located at 2, Jalan Sri Klebang A/13, Bandar Baru Sri Klebang, 31200, Chemor, Perak. Established with an investment of RM15 million, this Honda 3S Centre is specially designed with environmental friendly features that make use of natural resources efficiently, helping to minimise energy and water usage, as well as waste. The facility features:

• 60% natural daylight use courtesy of large glass openings and skylights
• Zonal energy efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting with motion sensors enable power savings and usage reduction
• Natural ventilation through stack and cross ventilation in the workshop area
• 100% potable water offset for landscape and Water Closet (WC) flushing. The expected rainwater harvested annually is equivalent to 49% of total potable water demand of the 3S Centre

Honda has continuously emphasised its commitment to reducing its environmental impact in all areas of its operations and Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) has taken the initiative to be the first dealership in Malaysia to extend this green technology undertaking into the showroom and service centre.

The new 3S Centre complies with the criterion of the GBI rating system, which is based on the design assessment of the building in terms of Energy Efficiency, Indoor Environment Quality, Materials and Resources, Sustainable Site Planning and Management, Water Efficiency and Innovation.

Honda Malaysia_Toichi Ishiyama_Managing Director_Chief Executive OfficerHonda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Toichi Ishiyama said, “As one of the oldest Honda dealerships in Malaysia, Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) continues to impress us with their challenging spirit and successes. This award-winning dealership has now set a new benchmark by being the first to build and develop an environmentally friendly Honda 3S Centre that maximises resource efficiency and focuses on the building’s sustainability. In Honda, we are committed to reducing the environmental footprint. To achieve this, we take the initiative to utilize the innovative green technologies in our daily operations and products. I am proud that Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) is also practising the same by enhancing the usage of green technologies. Honda Malaysia believes this new environmentally friendly Honda 3S Centre will enable customers in Ipoh to experience great services in an even more conducive environment.”

Built on 2 acres of land, the 3S Centre has the latest facilities and amenities for customers’ comfort and convenience. This includes comfortable customer lounges, complimentary WiFi, Kid’s Corner, free flow food and beverages as well as Muslim Prayer Room. 19 bays, comprising 14 General Service Bays, 4 General Repair Bays and 1 Tyre Alignment Bay are able to work on up to 60 cars per day.

Meanwhile, Honda Malaysia announced that the company has registered more than 44,200 units in the first half of 2019. This record has enabled Honda Malaysia to maintain the No. 1 position in the Non-National Segment and No. 2 in the overall Total Industry Volume (TIV), accounting for 15.3% in TIV (based on its internal data). In the first six months of 2019, the Northern region registered more than 7,800 vehicles, of which 30% or approximately 2,400 vehicles were registered in Perak. The company also revealed that the Honda City was the best-selling model during this period, contributing 36% of sales in the Northern region.

Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Honda 3S Centre can be contacted by phone: 05-292 7333.

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L-R: Dato' Rosie Tan, Group Chief Executive Officer, Tan Chong Motor Holdings Sdn Bhd; Ms Ayako Nakamura, Vice President, Business Operation, Asia & Oceania Region, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.; Mr Christopher Tan, Sales & Marketing Director, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd; Mr Vincent Wijnen, Senior Vice President, Asia & Oceania Region, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd

Nissan LEAF_Simply Amazing_Launch_MalaysiaThe Nissan Leaf is the best-selling electric vehicle (EV) in the world, with over 400,000 on the roads globally clocking a combined total of 10 billion kilometers. In 2012, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) introduced the first generation Nissan LEAF to Malaysia, exposing and educating Malaysians to a car powered by an alternative energy source. With more Malaysian consumers exposed to electrified vehicles over the years, ETCM decided to launch the second generation all-electric LEAF here.

L-R: Dato' Rosie Tan; Ms Ayako Nakamura; Mr Christopher Tan; Mr Vincent Wijnen; Mr Noriaki Kubo, Managing Director of Nichicon Malaysia Sdn Bhd; Mr Hiroshi Seki, Business Group Leader of Nichicon Corporation; Mr Shiro Kutsuzawa, Managing Director of Nichicon Singapore Pte Ltd.
L-R: Mr Christopher Tan; Mr Vincent Wijnen; Mr Noriaki Kubo, Managing Director of Nichicon Malaysia Sdn Bhd; Mr Hiroshi Seki, Business Group Leader of Nichicon Corporation; Mr Shiro Kutsuzawa, Managing Director of Nichicon Singapore Pte Ltd.

The all-new LEAF is priced at RM188,888 (on the road without insurance for private registration in Pen. Malaysia). It is covered by a 3-year (or 100,000 km) vehicle warranty, a 3-year (or 60,000 km) maintenance and service package, as well as an 8-year (or 160,000 km) lithium-ion battery warranty. To reduce concerns of the battery range, as well as to provide added perks to Leaf buyers, ETCM is offering LEAF owners complimentary use of a choice of MPV (Serena), SUV (X-Trail) and pick-up (Navara) for 23 days a year for the first three years of ownership. Alternatively, you can opt to lease the LEAF on a 3-year contract for RM3,500 a month.

Nissan LEAF_Electric Vehicle_Launch_Vincent Wijnen_Nissan Asia & Oceania“The introduction of the second generation of the world’s best-selling electric vehicle marks the next step in Nissan’s commitment to accelerate electrification across the region. More than 400,000 customers worldwide have chosen the Nissan LEAF. It is a testament to Nissan’s vision for the future of mobility, which we believe will help move people to a better world – a world that is more electric, more connected and more autonomous. And we believe that the all-new Nissan LEAF will transform the way Malaysians drive and live,” said Vincent Wijnen, Senior Vice President, Nissan Asia & Oceania.

Nissan LEAF_Electric Vehicle_2nd Generation_MalaysiaThe all-new LEAF features a new diamond-inspired holographic “grille”, boomerang-style LED daytime running lights, headlights and rear combination lights, 17″ diamond-cut Turbine alloy wheels, and an option for two-tone ‘floating’ roof.

Inside, you get a flat-bottom leather steering wheel, 7″ multi-info display, Alcantara leather seats and climate control timer. It also has a 435-litre boot that expands to 1,176 litres.

Nissan LEAF_Official Launch_Edaran Tan Chong Motor_MalaysiaThe Nissan Safety Shield features included in the LEAF are forward collision warning, forward emergency braking, driver alertness, intelligent ride control, trace control, hill start assist, vehicle dynamic control, anti-lock braking system with brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and surround view monitor with moving object detection, as well as six airbags.

The LEAF is the icon of the Nissan Intelligent Mobility vision which incorporates the Nissan Intelligent Power, Nissan Intelligent Driving and Nissan Intelligent Integration solutions. The car is powered by an electric motor that generates 150 PS and 320 Nm of torque. This allows for a 0 – 100 km/h acceleration of 7.9 seconds as maximum torque comes in instantaneously.

Nissan LEAF_Electric Vehicle_CHAdeMO_Fast Charging_MalaysiaProviding the energy is a 40 kWh Li-ion battery pack which sits in the chassis and gives the car a lower centre of gravity for better stability and handling. The battery pack can be charged with a 6.6 kW (Type 1) wall box charger which comes with the vehicle purchase (ETCM is planning to have the Type 2 connector available in the near future), or a 50 kW CHAdeMO fast charger. It takes approximately 7 hours to fully charge the battery using the regular wall box charger, and about one hour with the fast charger. Fast charging is recommended for providing a top-up on long-range drives and is not to be used on a daily basis due to the strain it puts on the battery. FYI, CHAdeMO is an association made up of Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Mitsubishi and Tokyo Electric Power Company that established a standard for direct current (DC) fast charging.

The CHAdeMO fast chargers are currently available for free usage at ABB Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Subang Jaya), Nichicon (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (Bandar Baru Bangi), and PLUS Ayer Keroh R&R (Melaka, southbound), with more locations planned. Meanwhile, the 6.6 kWh chargers are also available for use at 17 ETCM outlets nationwide, with more on the way.

The battery level after some very enthusiastic driving around the state.
The battery level after some very enthusiastic driving around the state.

On a full charge, the LEAF has a range of approximately 311 km, based on the ECE R101 New European Driving Cycle, so if your daily commute is about 100 km you can technically get away with not charging for three days. ETCM is considering bringing in the larger capacity 60 kWh variant in the future. The driving range is dependent on factors like traffic conditions, weather, etc and incidentally, Nissan had put the LEAF through quality and durability tests including flood and lightning tests to ensure safety. As the circuitry is sealed and weatherproofed, the Leaf can be safely charged in the rain. Thus far, the in-house developed battery has not had a recall.

Getting electricity from the Nissan LEAF via the Nichicon Power Mover and step down transformer to make ice kacang and recharge smartphones.
Getting electricity from the Nissan LEAF via the Nichicon Power Mover and step down transformer to make ice kacang and recharge smartphones.

The Nissan LEAF is also designed with bi-directional charging so that the car can be a mobile power source. Using Nichicon’s world’s first mass produced Vehicle-to-Home EV Power Station or its Power Mover carryable discharger, an electrified vehicle like the LEAF can be used as a power source to supply electricity for lighting and appliances. And while this is relatively unheard of here, V2H charging has been used in Japan as a power source after natural disasters. In certain countries, V2H is also an accepted form of electricity supply management i.e. power the home in the day during peak hours / tariffs to reduce load to the grid and save cost, and recharge at night when demand and tariffs are low. ETCM and Nissan aim to engage with the Malaysia government and business sectors on the benefits of this technology.

Nissan LEAF_e-Pedal_Eco Button_Drive Selector_MalaysiaThe e-Pedal function in the LEAF allows the driver to accelerate, decelerate, and stop by manipulating the pressure on just one pedal i.e. the throttle / accelerator pedal. It takes just a bit of learning on our test drive to sense how the car moves, slows down, stops or holds itself on a slope, to effectively use just one pedal during the drive. But if you prefer to drive it like a conventional automatic vehicle, you can opt not to engage e-Pedal to use both the throttle and brake pedals.

Christopher Tan_Sales & Marketing Director_Edaran Tan Chong Motor_Malaysia“Available in a single high-spec premium grade, the all-new Nissan LEAF is technologically advanced, contemporary in its design, and is extremely fun to drive,” commented Christopher Tan, ETCM Sales & Marketing Director.

 

 

The LEAF is available in the following colour choices:

Two-tone exterior: Pearl White (body) / Deep Blue Pearl (roof); Magnetic Red (body) / Super Black (roof)

Single-tone exterior: Brilliant Silver; Super Black; Gun Metal Grey; Deep Blue Pearl

Interior colour: Graphite Black; Stone Grey

The Nissan LEAF will be at the following ETCM showrooms this weekend:

Nissan LEAF_ETCM Showrooms_Malaysia_2019Gallery:

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2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 EXTERIOR - 01The all-new Mazda 3 was launched last weekend at 1Utama Shopping Complex in Petaling Jaya, and it has created quite a lot of buzz among car enthusiasts, some of whom are complaining about the price increase compared to the outgoing version, and the fact that the rear suspension now is a torsion beam compared to the multi-link arrangement in the outgoing model.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 EXTERIOR - 22The new Mazda 3 is available in two body shapes, the LiftBack, and the Sedan. Within the LiftBack, there are two variants, a 1.5 Liftback (Mid spec), and a High Plus 2.0 litre. The Sedan gets three variants, starting with a 1.5 Sedan (Mid spec) a 2.0 Sedan High and 2.0 Sedan High Plus. The 1.5 litre Liftback and Sedan variants are both priced at RM139,620, while the 2.0 Sedan High is priced at RM 150,059. Both the LiftBack and Sedan High Plus are priced at RM160,059.  All prices stated are OTR without insurance for Pen. Malaysia, and for private registration.

Mazda SkyActiv-G 2.0 litre engineThe 1.5 litre engine develops 118 hp at 6,000 rpm and 153 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, while the 2.0 litre engine develops 163 hp and 213 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at 5.8 litres per 100 km for the 1.5 litre Sedan and 5.9 litres per 100 km for the 1.5 litre Liftback. Meanwhile, the 2.0 litre sedan’s fuel consumption is claimed at 6.2 litres per 100 km, while the 2.0 litre Liftback is claimed at 6.3 litres per 100 km. Both the engines are DOHC, direct injection and naturally aspirated.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 EXTERIOR - 12In terms of size, the Mazda 3 moves up and beyond the norm in terms of a lengthened wheelbase that is now 2,725 mm compared to the current norm of 2,700 mm amongst Japanese makes. Overall length is 4,460mm for the Liftback while the Sedan is 4,660 mm. Overall width for all variants is 1,795mm while overall height is 1,440 mm for the sedan while the Liftback stands a little lower at 1,435 mm. The 1.5 litre variants get 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 R 16 tyres while the 2.0 litre variants get 18 inch alloys and 215/45 R 18 tyres. The spare is a space saver.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 INTERIOR - 07Both the 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre variants are equipped with 6-speed SKYACTIV automatic transmissions, with drive to the front wheels, but the 1.5 litre variants have slightly different gear ratios and a lowered final drive to provide more get-up-and-go.

The Mazda 3 is available only as CBU (Completely Built-Up) and imported as complete cars whereas the previous model was assembled under contract at the Inokom plant in Kulim. CBU cars attract higher excise duties than locally assembled cars, and that will account for part of the price increase.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 INTERIOR - 02Meanwhile, Mazda has announced that the brand aims to re-position itself as the ‘premium brand’ amongst Japanese cars, and bring itself closer to its European rivals. This entails raising the bar for build quality, connectivity and features, which in essence will cost more, and they are starting this ‘New Era’ with the Mazda 3. Later on, the other models will follow a similar nomenclature, and shall be upgraded too. Since the Mazda 3 is the first to receive this new era upgrade, the price structure stands out as an irregularity, but in time as the new models roll out, the prices will be re-adjusted accordingly.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 INTERIOR - 09The new features include a host of safety features that include seven airbags, including a knee bag, and front and rear curtain airbags. Dynamic stability Control and Traction Control, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Launch Assist, and Auto Hold Function is standard equipment across the entire range. All variants feature keyless entry, keyless start, idle stop, and heads-up display. The High and high Plus versions get paddle shifters.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 INTERIOR - 06There are improvements in the sound-proofing, and the new car is noticeably quieter on the road. Mazda also put a lot of effort into its Human Machine Interface (HMI), refining its ‘Jinba Ittai’ approach of ‘horse and rider as one’, even looking into where the cupholders and instrument controla are to be placed.

In terms of Infotainment, the entire range gets Mazda Connect Infotainment System with Voice Command, Apple Car Play and Android Auto function, a full-colour 8.8 inch display and multi-function Commander Control. All variants get an 8-speaker system.

2019 ALL-NEW MAZDA3 INTERIOR - 03The High plus range also gets i-ACTIVSENSE Advanced Safety features, namely. Adaptive Front Lighting System, High Beam Control, which turns off some of the LEDs so as not to blind oncoming traffic, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, Smart Brake Support for front and rear, plus Mazda Radar Cruise Control.

New and unique to the Mazda 3 range is GVC Plus. All the existing models have GVC, (Geo Vectoring Control, a system that automatically retards the engine as the car takes a turn, but the GVC Plus also applies braking to the inner wheels during a corner to transfer drive to the outer wheels during cornering. The result is improved turn-in, and better overall stability. An added bonus is increased passenger comfort during turns, this reducing fatigue on long hauls.

Mazda 3 Sedan_RearAlso unique to the Mazda 3, at least for the time being is a re-designed rear suspension set up, which does away with the multi-link arrangement, and instead replaces it with a torsion beam arrangement. Amidst protests from Mazda loyalists who maintain that this is a downgrade, Mazda claims that the car handling is even better.

The second protest comes from other loyalists who are fearful that the 1.5 litre engine would not be powerful enough to pull the car along, which is tantamount to Mazda reneging on its promise to provide the ‘Zoom Zoom’ feel to all its cars.

Bermaz, of course pre-empting the situation, arranged for a track session at the Sepang International Circuit, ad few days after the launch, to dispel all fears. We attended the test drive and drove both the 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre versions back to back – so did the Mazda 3 live up to its promise, or did it fail miserably? Watch the videos below.

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