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The Gurun plant of Naza Automotive Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (NAM), which started operations in May 2004, has reached a production milestone having rolled out its 150,000th vehicle yesterday after seven years of operation. The milestone vehicle was a Naza Forte 1.6SX.

Since rolling out its first vehicle, the Naza Ria, in August 2004, the plant has went on to churn out 18 different models – mostly rebadged Peugeot and Kia vehicles, some even wearing the Naza badge. Currently, models assembled by the plant are the Forte, Pregio, Citra, Rondo, Peugeot 407, Peugeot 308, Peugeot 207 and Peugeot 3008.

Upgrading works are currently underway for the plant, which is in the midst of a six-year upgrading and expansion plan which commenced in 2010. With an investment of RM714 million being poured in, there will be upgraded facilities, expanded capacity, new model introductions, and R&D facilities. Currently, the RM500 million plant already has a two-storey office, a test track and accommodation lots for vendors, suppliers and staff in its 140 acres of land.

“By the end of our current expansion exercise, NAM’s total investment in this facility since 2004 will amount to RM1.21 billion,” said En SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of the Naza Group of Companies.

For 2011, Naza is on track for an annual production tally of 15,640 units. Next year, the target is to double that figure to 30,050, and that growth is likely to be fueled by the new Peugeot T73 sedan which is set to begin a five-year production cycle in 2012.

Naza is committed to make 60,000 units of the T73 over the five years, and 60% of those units are set for export. Naza already exports the Peugeot 207 to Thailand and Indonesia. The Kia Pregio van is also being exported from Gurun to Indonesia.

Picture: Official Naza release.

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia today introduced a more powerful variant of its Pajero Sport SUV, which now sports a variable geometry turbocharger to extract higher outputs from its 2.5-litre diesel engine. Dubbed the Pajero Sport VGT, the new variant is sold alongside the existing GL and GS variants of the Pajero Sport.

Not to be confused with the Pajero Exceed, which is a totally unrelated vehicle, the Pajero Sport is based on mechanicals of the Triton pick-up truck, and in VGT form here, it is capable of making 176hp @ 4,000rpm and 350Nm @ 1,800 – 3,500rpm – a substantial boost from 134hp @ 5,500rpm and 314Nm @ 2,000rpm made by the GL and GS.

VGT technology uses varies vane angle of the turbocharger to control exhaust flow against the turbine blades, ensuring a constant delivery of additional fresh air to the engine for optimum output and performance. As can be seen in the output figures, the Pajero Sport VGT is able to spread its peak torque output between 1,800 and 3,500rpm, promising a highly flexible driving characteristic.

Also uprated from the Pajero Sport GL and GS is the transmission offering, which now has five forward ratios as opposed to four, although the INVECS-II transmission control software continues to be featured complete with manual overriding facility. Magnesium paddle shifters are further thrown in for good measure.

The Pajero Sport VGT also comes equipped with Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD system which provides drivers a choice of four driving modes (2H, 4H, 4HLc, 4LLc) for various conditions ranging from mud to dirt to tarmac. The drivetrain also features a hybrid limited slip differential (LSD), and further safety features come in the form of dual airbags, ABS,and EBD.

In terms of creature comforts, the Pajero Sport comes with leather seats for all three rows, a touchscreen multimedia unit with GPS navigator and reverse camera, cruise control, and auto climate control. It is available in four colours – Black Mica, Cool Silver, White Pearl, and Quartz Brown Metallic.

The fully imported Pajero Sport VGT is priced at RM171,980 on the road inclusive of insurance, 3-year warranty and 2-year free maintenance package. It is on display for public viewing at Mid Valley Megamall from 22-25 September.

Pictures: Official Mitsubishi release.

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Residents of Johor Bahru will have the opportunity to test drive Kia’s line-up of vehicles this weekend as Leg 3 of the Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 roadshow will be held this weekend on 23 – 25 Sept 2011 at the KSL City Mall. The event has been rescheduled from its originally planned dates of 4 – 9 Oct 2011 at Jusco Tebrau.

A 13-car convoy, dubbed the Kia motorcade, was flagged off from Menara Naza today heading to mark the event. Comprising of various Kia models such as the Forte, Sportage, and Forte Koup, the convoy will stop at various locations in Seremban and Malacca over the next two days.

At Seremban, the convoy will have brief stops at Tesco Seremban and Dataran Seremban while in Malacca, it will stop at the Melaka Mall, Dataran Pahlawan, Aeon Bandaraya and Mydin Melaka. On 22 Sept on its way to KSL City Mall, the convoy will stop at Sutera Mall, Perling Mall, Plaza Pelangi and Pelangi Leisure Mall. At each of these locations, Naza Kia personnel will distribute pamphlets and freebies to visitors and passers by.

Customers who test drive any of Kia’s vehicles at the any of these roadshows will be in the running to win a Forte 1.6EX. The winner will be announced following the completion of the Test Drive Kia On Tour 2011 in October.

KON

Picture: Official Naza Kia release.

See also:
– Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 offers chance to win Forte 1.6EX
– Test Drive Kia on Tour 2011 to hit Penang this week

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Hyundai has unveiled its new generation i30 at the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2011, a vehicle the company expects will build on the success of the original model thanks to enhanced design, quality, performance and efficiency.

Designed and engineered at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the new-generation i30 represents a further evolution of the unique Hyundai form language, ‘fluidic sculpture’ – the company’s distinctive design DNA – and offers a choice of four engines with a total of six power options and CO2emissions below 100 g/km thanks to an upgraded, super-efficient 1,6-litre diesel unit.

The new-generation i30 will go on sale in Europe early in 2012 as a five-door hatchback. The newcomer will be produced in Europe at the company’s manufacturing facility in Nošovice, Czech Republic.

A worthy successor to Hyundai’s best-seller

The original i30 has defied the industry norm by recording increased annual sales with each passing year. Since its launch in 2007, the i30 has recorded over 360.000 sales units in Europe, including more than 115.000 units during 2010 – the highest-ever sales figure for an individual Hyundai model on sale in Europe in one year, putting the i30 sixth in the C-segment rankings.

Hyundai expects the new-generation i30 to maintain this growth trend, contributing to future sales success, growing brand awareness and improving perceptions of Hyundai among European consumers.

The fortunes of the new-generation i30 will also be helped by a recovering market. Industry analysts forecast the mainstream C-segment will grow by 7% over the next three years, reaching sales of 2.4 million vehicles per year by 2014. Hyundai is planning to sell on average over 120.000 units of the new i30 per year during the car’s lifecycle, capturing a larger market share of around 5%.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: “We expect the new-generation i30 to play a significant role in developing our sales and brand image in Europe, taking on the leading vehicles in the C-segment and joining the all-new i40 as a brand ambassador and quality benchmark for Hyundai.”

Style inspired by nature
The ‘fluidic sculpture’ ethos utilizes flowing lines inspired by nature and modern architecture to give a constant three-dimensional presence to Hyundai vehicles. Since its introduction on the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, fluidic sculpture has been the form language for all new Hyundai models launched in Europe.

Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre, commented: “When designing the new-generation i30, we used strong, fluid lines to sculpt a car which looks athletic and exudes a sense of constant motion, even when stationary. We gave the car a bold stance, transmitting a confident attitude through sporty characteristics and dynamic proportions. In this way, the car is very close to the all-new i40, and the Hyundai design DNA is easy to recognize on these models.”
The new-generation i30 also bears Hyundai’s signature frontal feature – the hexagonal-shaped grille.

“The hexagonal appearance is unique to Hyundai, and defines the i30 as a family member. The jewel-like front headlamps which flank the grille add a strong personality to the vehicle, as well as a sense of refinement and luxury,” Thomas Bürkle added.

Powering the new generation

The new-generation i30 will be available with a choice of three gasoline and three diesel variants, with power outputs ranging from 90 to 135 ps. Both fuel types play a significant role in the European C-segment, with diesel representing 52% and gasoline 43% of total sales. Overall, Hyundai is expecting a 50:50 split between diesel- and gasoline-powered i30 sales.

Hyundai believes that its highly-efficient 1,6-liter variable geometry turbo (VGT) ‘U-II’ diesel unit will be the most popular engine in the range. Generating 128 ps at 4,000 rpm, the upgraded engine will accelerate the new-generation i30 from standstill to 100 kph in 10.9 seconds, with a top speed of 197 kph.

The petrol engines, too, offer a balance between performance and economy. For example, the new-generation i30 can be specified with Hyundai’s 1,6-liter ‘Gamma’ GDI (gasoline direct injection), a 1,591 cc unit that generates 135 ps and 164 Nm of torque.

Low emissions and real-world efficiency

The addition of technologies developed under the company’s Blue Drive™ sub-brand optimizes efficiency and lowers emissions for the new-generation i30. These include: Integrated Stop & Go (ISG), low-rolling resistance tyres and an alternator management system. With CO2emissions below 100 g/km and an engine delivery of 128 ps, the 1,6-litre diesel new-generation i30 will feature a best-in-class power to efficiency ratio.

Buyers will be offered a choice between manual and automatic six-speed transmissions, with both units providing a refined driving experience and enhanced fuel efficiency.

Interior quality and equipment from the class above

Cabin refinement and specification on the new-generation i30 have been inspired by the high standards of the all-new i40. Behind the wheel, for example, drivers benefit from Hyundai’s new Flex Steer™ option. With three operating modes – Comfort, Normal and Sport – the system can be used to vary the level of steering assistance and feedback in order to suit driving conditions and make the journey more pleasurable. A large TFT Supervision cluster is available in the same quality found on i40 – providing a wide range of essential information to the driver in high-resolution clarity. Located in the centre console, the navigation system is displayed via a 7-inch touch-screen.

The generous equipment levels on the new-generation i30 will enhance the Hyundai experience for passengers too. Dual-zone climate control will ensure a comfortable environment for all occupants during long journeys, and the addition of a panoramic sunroof provides increased natural light within the cabin. The panoramic sunroof has been designed to open fully or tilt open, offering passengers flexibility and functionality.

Customers will benefit from the new-generation i30’s roomier interior compared to the previous model. The overall length (4300 mm) and width (1780 mm) have been increased, while the height has been reduced (1470 mm), generating sportier exterior proportions without compromising functionality. Cargo capacity in the new-generation i30 is 378 liters with the rear seats upright – an increase of 10% compared to the original model.

Five-star safety features

The new-generation i30 features the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features include ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ABS (anti-lock braking system), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management) and Emergency Stop Signal. In terms of passive safety, the new-generation i30 will be fitted with six airbags as standard – front, side and curtain – while a driver’s knee airbag is optional.

The safety features available on the new-generation i30 reinforce Hyundai’s excellent record on safety, and the company anticipates the new car will follow the outgoing model in attaining the maximum five-star score in Euro NCAP’s impact assessment programme.

Driving fleet growth

Since going on sale in 2007, the original i30 has played an important role in expanding Hyundai’s sales and reputation in Europe’s fleet sector. Hyundai expects the new-generation i30 to be even more popular with fleet managers and company car drivers than its predecessor.

Targeting sales of over 120.000 units in Europe during a full year for the new-generation i30, Hyundai forecasts approximately 50% of sales to come from the fleet sector.

Five Year Triple Care will be a valuable point of differentiation for the new-generation i30 in a highly competitive class. The five-year warranty has no mileage limit, roadside assistance is included for five years, and vehicle health checks are performed annually, providing peace of mind for fleet buyers and operators.

Compared to the original i30, total cost of ownership for the new-generation model will be reduced, helped by improved fuel efficiency, lower CO2emissions and a lower insurance classification.

Technical specifications
New-generation Hyundai i30
All figures are tentative – final figures will be confirmed at time of launch

Diesel engines

1.4-litre 90 ps
Type / capacity U-II, WGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
Power / torque 90 ps (66.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 220 Nm @1500~2750 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 75 x 79
Compression ratio 17.0

1.6-litre 110 ps
Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
Power / torque 110 ps (81.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
Compression ratio 17.3

New 1.6-litre 128 ps
Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
Power / torque 128 ps (94.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
Compression ratio 17.3

Gasoline engines

1.4-litre 100 ps
Type / capacity Gamma 1.4, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
Power / torque 100 ps (73.2 kW) @ 5500 rpm / 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 74.99
Compression ratio 10.5

1.6-litre 120 ps
Type / capacity Gamma 1.6 MPI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
Power / torque 120 ps (88 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 156Nm @ 4850 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 85.44
Compression ratio 10.5

1.6-litre 135 ps
Type / capacity Gamma GDI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
Power / torque 135 ps (99 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 164 Nm @ 4850 rpm
Bore x Stroke (mm) 77×85.44
Compression ratio 11

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The new Toyota Hilux was launched today at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre to the media. Elsewhere in the country, showrooms would have at least one unit available for immediate viewing and test drives by potential customers.

In essence it is a new packaging – there are significant exterior changes to make it stand out from the outgoing model – these include a new front grille, headlamps and bumper. The main body structure remains the same, while the rear lights are slightly changed. Elsewhere, the over-fenders are re-styled while turn indicator lights have been incorporated into the wing mirrors. On the 3.0 L model, there is a wider air scoop on the bonnet to increase cooling to the top-mounted intercooler. The wheels come with a new alloy rim, and the 15 inch tyres are retained to keep replacement costs down.

Mechanically, the new Hilux remains the same as the previous one – the highly reliable 2.5 litre turbo-charged engine of the 2.5G model continues to put out 102 PS of power and 260Nm of torque, while the 3.0 L model retains its 163 PS engine. Transmission is a 4-speed automatic for both the models, while two variants of the 2.5 litre model are available with a 5-speed manual transmission. There is also a single cab version available only with manual transmission.

Inside, the Hilux comes with a new dashboard, and instrumentation includes a seatbelt reminder, and the audio system has an AUX-jack. For the 3.0 litre model, there is an option of a navigational system.

Elsewhere, the steering wheel of the 3.0 L model now has audio controls built into it.

Buyers of the new Hilux can be assured of the same robustness and durability from the new Hilux, as was proven a day ago at an off-road track experience organized by UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd for selected members of the motoring media.

At the test session, there was a ‘low speed’ test track where the media could put both the models through a steep ascent and descent, an axle twist through a series of ruts, a deep water crossing, and even a muddy patch. Both the 2.5G and the 3.0 L performed equally well on the course, and the same units were cleaned up and put on display at the various showrooms around the Klang Valley in conjunction with the launch today, non the worse even after the gruelling course. The highlight of the day was a high speed taxi ride through a high speed course through a very wet and slippery mud track running around the outer perimeter of the course.

Retail prices are:-

Hilux Double Cab 3.0 G AT – RM107,250
Hilux Double Cab 2.5G AT – RM 96, 970
Hilux Double Cab 2.5 G MT – RM 91,900
Hilux Double Cab 2.5 STD MT – RM 83,700
Hilux Single Cab 2.5 MT – RM 73, 256

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Local Porsche distributor, Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), has expanded the Panamera range in Malaysia to eight models, having launched the Panamera S Hybrid and Panamera Turbo S today. Also launched today, in the presence of 400 media and invited guests, were the Boxster Spyder and 911 GT3 RS 4.0.

Despite receiving mixed responses from critics, and many not too complimentary of its styling, the Panamera has proved to be a success story for Porsche, certainly as far as Malaysia is concerned. The two new variants join a family which has the Panamera, Panamera S, Panamera Diesel, Panamera 4, Panamera 4S, and Panamera Turbo.

SDAP CEO Mr Arnt Bayer said, “We are pleased to announce that the Panamera model is already well estab-lished and very popular in Malaysia, contributing to 22% of total sales with 101 sold Panamera since the launch in end of 2009 to date. We have already received many positive feedbacks on the Panamera and enquiries for the new Panamera well before its launch, and we are confident that sales for these two models will increase the total Panamera market share in Malaysia.”

You would imagine that someone ready to spend RM910,000 on a car might not be too bothered about an issue as petty as fuel consumption. Yet, in the Panamera S Hybrid, which costs that amount of money before registration and insurance, we are looking at the most fuel efficient Porsche ever, with consumption measured at 6.8 litres/100km when tested on the NEDC cycle. Meanwhile, CO2 emission is 159 g/km.

The combustion half of the Panamera S Hybrid’s powertrain is a 3.0-litre supercharged V6 making 333hp between 5,500 and 6,500rpm. Maximum torque of 440Nm is twisted out from 3,300 to 5,250rpm. When summoned, the electric motor contributes a further 47hp and 300Nm, both at 1,150rpm. Porsche claims combined output figures of 380hp @ 5,500rpm and 580Nm @ 1,000rpm.

Porsche calls its setup a parallel full hybrid system, being capable of operating in full electric for approximately 2km and at speeds of up to 85kph. It can also operate in the so-called sailing mode at speeds up to 165kph. When coasting, the combustion engine is disengaged and switched off, while the electric motor operates in generator mode. The engine is quickly restarted when the driver operates the throttle to summon acceleration.

Electricity for the motor is stored in a rear-mounted nickel metal hydride (NiMh) battery with a power content of 1.7kWh and voltage of 288V. It should be noted that such a high voltage makes servicing the Panamera S Hybrid highly hazardous and should only be attempted by personnel specially trained and certified by Porsche. Fitted with an 8-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, the Panamera S Hybrid completes the century sprint in six seconds flat en route to its 270kph top speed.

Higher up the spectrum, we have the Panamera Turbo S, which can be yours for RM1,360,000 before insurance. Compared to the RM1.2 million Panamera Turbo, the Turbo S buyer gets an extra 50hp and 100Nm to play with, and the result is 0.2 seconds off the century sprint and an extra three clicks of top speed with no reported increase in fuel consumption.

Sitting in the engine room is the Turbo’s 4,806cc V8 tweaked to deliver 550hp @ 6,000rpm and 750Nm @ 2,250 – 4,500rpm. An overboost facility is available to ramp it up to 800Nm @ 2,500 – 4,000 when summoned. Paired to Porsche’s 7-speed PDK transmission, the Panamera Turbo S hits 100kph faster than you can count to four (3.8 seconds, to be precise), and runs out of ideas way after most would run out of courage (at 306kph).

To keep its colossal power in check, the Turbo S is armed with a number of driver aids such Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). It is also fitted with the Sport Chrono Package Turbo as standard which features driving modes such as ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport Plus’ in addition to ‘Launch Control’ for the most rapid take-off possible.

While the two new Panamera variants are long-term offerings under SDAP’s stable, the other two models introduced today are available only in limited numbers. There is only one unit of the Boxster Spyder, it’s yours for RM626,349. As we publish this, the unit has yet to be sold. Meanwhile, the 911 GT3 RS 4.0, a farewell edition to the 997-series, arrived in a shipment of five, all of which are sold out.

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Sales has been good for Rolls-Royce in recent months. So good that the company has just announced a £10 million expansion project of its plant in Goodwood, West Sussex. The company charted record sales in 2010 and is seeing demand grow in almost every market.

The expansion will see the plant’s Assembly Hall grow by more 2,500m2 in floor space and its Surface Finish Centre by more than 640m2. Consequence of this expansion, besides increased output in volume, will also be the significant growth of its Bespoke operation.

Bespoke allows for near-limitless unique customization of Rolls-Royce cars by its customers, and the company recently announced that it will double the workforce of this particular division, such is the increasing demand for its services.

Construction is planned to commence later this year and will be completed in late 2012.

KON

Picture: Official Rolls-Royce release.

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The annual Subaru Palm Challenge returns for 2011, with the Malaysian leg having taken place last weekend at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Some 57 participants, some of whom arrived as early as 7am, signed up for the challenge to be in the running for the grand prize of a Subaru Impreza 2.0R.

The contestants had to place their right palm firmly on the palm decals of the car for as long as it took. They also had to go through a series seven of elimination rounds with physical and mental challenges in order to narrow the pack to the last 10 standing. Tasks ranged from standing on one leg for 10 minutes to holding two bottles of water with their left hand raised horizontally overhead while standing on one leg.

In the end, the final 10 emerged after 10 hours 39 minutes; Tan Chuan Kok, Yoon Kok Leong, Mohd Fadhlly R. Azmi, Richard Law Choon Keat, Jonathan David William, Chan Hon Ki, Amier Amzar Akbarudin, Hubert Koh Kim Whatt, Saw Sen Chiew and Tan Hong Sheng. They will be representing Malaysia to compete with the other 390 participants from other Asian countries in Singapore on 29th October 2011.

On top of the all-expenses paid trip to compete in the Singapore regional finals, each of the top 10 finalists are already going home with a Toshiba LCD TV. Contestants also have the chance to win cash prizes for:
– Country Winner (awarded to the last person standing from each country),
– Asian Winner (awarded to the last person standing from all regional countries except Singapore)
– Country Team prize (awarded to the country team that lasts the longest. This is done by combining all of the individual team members’ timings).

KON

Pictures: Official Motor Image release

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Five Government ministries, namely the Prime Minister’s Department, Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water, Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Ministry of Transport, and Ministry of Finance have been handed test cars of Proton’s electric vehicle prototypes for review and feedback.

The five ministries each received one unit of the Exora ‘REEV’ (Range Extender Electric Vehicle), whilst the Energy, Internatiional Trade and Transport ministries further get a unit of the Saga EV each. The vehicle handover completes Phase 1 of the Fleet Test programme between Proton, the Energy ministry and the International Trade ministry to aid the Government in developing the necessary infrastructure to support the use of electric and hybrid vehicles in Malaysia.

In addition to the test cars, Proton has also setup charging stations at the premises of the five ministries. In addition, home charging facilities will also be provided to ministry drivers who are identified to evaluate the cars under the programme.


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The Continental Commercial Vehicle Tyres road show, which was launched in April this year, has recently come to its conclusion having taken place in ten different locations around Peninsula Malaysia and attracted the visit of nearly 1,000 fleet and dealer customers.

Visitors were shown Continental’s latest range of products and technologies specifically designed for the cost-conscious Asian market. There were e-Tools namely the ContiTireFinder, the ContiTireTerminal and the ContiCostCalculator™ for customers to interactively identify the most suitable tyres for their application at the best possible cost.
A number of tyres were on display, and they include the newly launched HD Hybrid, which covers motorway and regional applications. It is claimed to offer higher mileage, less rolling resistance and better traction. Over the long run, this means reduced downtime and fuel consumption.

KON

See also: CST sends Continental Truck Tire New Technology to the streets

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