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LLumar launches first 3S centre and two new tint films

September 28, 2010 at 5:30 pm By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under Cars, Local News

LLumar, a company that is famously known for its security tints has launched the company’s first 3S centre right here in Malaysia. The flagship centre which is claimed to be the country’s first “3S tint centre” is located along Jalan Chan Sow Lin, next to the Audi service centre. The new centre allows customers to experience various demonstrations and display tools that showcase the quality of LLumar’s tint films. The centre also allow customers to compare tint films from its competitors.

Adding to that is a comfortable waiting area with WiFi connectivity so customers can at least wait while doing something productive, as a typical full-car tinting process can take anywhere between 3-4 hours, as I have experienced recently.

More time would be needed if there is sticky residue on your windscreen, after being removed by the authorities. LLumar whose parent company, US-based Solutia Incorporated which now owns Novomatrix (owner of the V-Kool brand among others) also launched two new tint films. First up is the AVS 70 windshield tint which belongs to LLumar’s Ultra-Premium Windsreen Film line-up.

The company claims that the AVS 70 is compatible with most wireless devices such as mobile phones, satellite signal receivers and infrared receivers. This comes as good news to most of us. Putting a tint that will render a GPS or a Smart Tag unit redundant isn’t something one would be happy about. However there is one problem. LLumar confirms that the AVS tint film is non JPJ-compliant, hence you could risk removal by the authorities.

We understand that LLumar will notify the customer which tint film is JPJ compliant and which isn’t. The other new product is the Crystal 6 film. This is the company’s “darkest legal” tint with protection against side impact collision as well as “smash and grab” incidents.

Unlike the AVS 70, the Crystal 6 tint is JPJ-compliant and it covers all windows and comes together with a rear windscreen tint (from LLumar’s windscreen tint products like the AVS). The front windscreen will have to be purchased separately. Yes, unlike other tint brands, LLumar sell its automotive tint products in two parts.

When a customer walks in, he or she has to select a security tint product (total of six to choose from) followed by the selection of a front windscreen tint (also six options). Pricing wise, the Crystal 6 tint will cost you RM1,680 for a medium-sized vehicle and the AVS 70 will set you back RM900 for a similar-sized vehicle. LLumar also revealed that it will replace its JPJ-compliant tints if they are removed by the authorities, free of charge.

LLumar also mentioned that it is working on a system which will allow customers to get JPJ-approved certificates that signify the legality of the tint. Customers will be able to show this certificate to the officer in charge to prevent removal, which could be due to a faulty scanner.

However it is unknown when this mechanism will be implemented. It should make things a whole lot easier for the consumers. Have your say after the jump. You can also read a report on 3M’s Crystalline tint film here.

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Federal Auto launches flagship ABT showroom in Malaysia

September 28, 2010 at 3:22 pm By Harvinder Sidhu Filed Under Audi, Cars, Local News, Volkswagen

Federal Auto Holdings Bhd. has officially opened an ABT showroom at Glenmarie, Shah Alam. The showroom which is Asia’s largest for the famous German tuner is 12,000 square feet in size and costs over a RM1 million to set up. The ABT dealership is specifically run by Federal Auto Sports Tuning Sdn. Bhd. or FAST which is a subsidiary of Federal Auto. The launch of the new showroom, blessed by ABT Managing Director, Hans-Jurgen Abt himself (son to founder, Johann Abt), comes after the appointment of FAST as ABT’s exclusive local dealer in March 2010. This means that Cartrade-ABT no longer represent the tuner here in Malaysia.

The dealership is responsible for selling official ABT products that range from aesthetic kits such as polyurethane body kits and wheels to engine performance upgrades as well as sports suspension springs. It also covers exhaust and brake upgrades. Apart from catering for the usual suspects, which are Volkswagens, the dealership also offers parts for Audis.

The scope of Volkswagen models that are covered by FAST include the Golf Mk6 (both 1.4 TSI and GTi models), the Scirocco (both 1.4 TSI and 2.0 TSI models) as well as the Tiguan. Golf Mk5 owners should be happy to know that FAST offers upgrades for the previous generation hatchback too.

As for the four-ring cars, owners of the TT, the A4 (both sedan and avant models), the A3 (5-door, Sportback and S3 models), the Q5 and lastly the R8 speed demon will find kits at the showroom. FAST confirmed that all ABT parts can be made available for the above models, with some already in stock.

The company also confirmed that the parts come with ABT’s 1-year warranty (against defects) and mentioned that esthetic upgrades will not harm your vehicle’s manufacturer warranty. However, engine upgrades such as ABT’s high-performance ECU kits can void the warranty. Nevertheless FAST said that it is in talks with the manufacturers in regards to the issue.

In terms of price, we don’t have the full price list just yet but upgrade kits for both the Golf and Scirocco models can be anywhere between RM6,363 for an engine chip tuning to RM43,610 for a complete set which includes a full body kit, sport springs, wheels and tires. An example of an ABT upgrade is the chip tuning for the Golf GTi Mk6, which bumps power from 210hp to 260hp and 280Nm of torque to 360Nm.

FAST plans to open another showroom in Petaling Jaya later this year, followed by at least two more in Penang and Johor Bahru by end of next year. Since we are on the topic, ABT is pronounced as ‘abt’ and not ‘A.B.T’ which is a common misconception. Continue reading to view more images of the launch event.
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Lamborghini releases 4th Paris Motorshow teaser – your guess is as good as mine!

September 28, 2010 at 1:29 pm By Jacob Alexander Filed Under Cars, Concept Cars, International News, Lamborghini

The Paris Motorshow is only a few days away and Lamborghini has released a fourth teaser of a possible concept. Early speculation pointed towards it being the Murcielago replacement, but it is more likely to be a new concept model. This is starting to feel like a game show where you guess the picture.

We’ll let you decide what it is but it looks as if it is pointing to the back area of the cabin, right behind the front seats. If you look closely, you can notice the Lamborghini logo as well as loads of carbon fibre. UPDATE: Some readers have pointed out it looks like a wheel rim, looks like that as well! Look after the jump for a high-res version of the picture and the rest of the teasers.
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Toyota could build new Yaris Hybrid in France

September 28, 2010 at 1:27 pm By Jacob Alexander Filed Under Cars, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel, Toyota

According to news reports, Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF) will be building a small hybrid vehicle starting in 2012. The model in question has not been confirmed, but the factory in Valenciennes currently builds Yaris models.

“This decision fits in Toyota’s strategy to extend the full hybrid technology to an increasing number of models. Since 2000, almost 300,000 Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles have been sold in Europe – and sales results are climbing steadily,” Toyota Motor Europe said in a statement.

Toyota will be receiving assistance from the French government in relation to the launch of the hybrid. The company so far spent 920 million Euros on the plant and an additional cost of 53 million Euros will be needed to add hybrid production capabilities.

The company already provides the European market with an Auris (Corolla) hybrid that is built in the UK. Sales of the Auris are good as the initial production capacity for 2010 is almost sold out. This is in line with the automaker’s plans of offering a hybrid version of all Toyota and Lexus models by the early 2020s.

Source

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Not all fuels are the same – we dig deeper into Shell V-Power

September 28, 2010 at 11:44 am By Danny Tan Filed Under Feature Stories, Local News

Not all fuels are the same, Shell says. Really? We spend a weekend with Malaysia’s market leader in fuel and learned more about what makes their performance fuel V-Power special.

V-Power made its world debut in Hong Kong back in 1998, and Malaysian motorists first got a taste of it in 2000. Ten years on and V-Power is still the only premium fuel in the market. Three months ago, Shell introduced V-Power 97 at regular RON97 prices (currently RM2.10 per litre) in Malaysia, which means that there are now two variants of V-Power sold here – V-Power 97 and V-Power Racing.

V-Power 97 is available at over 750 Shell stations across the country, replacing the previous RON97 offering. V-Power Racing, the premium fuel at RM2.48 per litre, is only sold at 40 plus pumps in Klang Valley and Johor. But what’s the difference between the two V-Power variants? And what’s the advantage V-Power has over Shell’s regular RON95 fuel?

Read the rest of the story after the jump.
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Hyundai-Sime Darby: Sonata recall does not affect Malaysia

September 28, 2010 at 11:11 am By Danny Tan Filed Under Cars, Hyundai, Koreans, Local News

As we reported yesterday, the Hyundai Sonata is being recalled in the USA over a shaft joint in the steering column that could be not properly assembled. We also said that South Korean made cars aren’t affected (our cars are imported from there) and that there won’t be a similar recall in Malaysia. Now, Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has confirmed that the recall does not affect Malaysia.

“The recent voluntary recall includes only the YF Sonata that is produced in Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, US. Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) confirmed that the YF Sonata produced in the Korea Asan plant and is not included in this recall,” the press release from HSDM read.

Mr. Dennis Ho, Managing Director of HSDM said in his statement that HSDM assures Malaysian car owners the quality of the cars it distributes and that Malaysian Hyundai car owners need not worry about the safety of their cars.

If you’re in the dark about what we’re talking about, read yesterday’s post here.

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Group Lotus vs 1Malaysia Racing: The team fights back!

September 28, 2010 at 10:48 am By Danny Tan Filed Under Formula 1, Local News, Lotus, Motorsports

It was shocking news when we heard that Proton and Group Lotus will be severing ties with Lotus Racing headed by Tony Fernandes. Now, here’s a chance to listen from the other side of the fence as Lotus Racing CEO Riad Asmat speaks on behalf of the team and its three top shareholders: SM Nasarudin, Kamarudin Meranun and Tony Fernandes.

“This year, we have established ourselves as the leading new team in F1 as a licensee of Group Lotus, and, although we all dreamt of bringing Team Lotus back to where it belongs, we could not do so in 2010 because those rights were owned by Team Lotus Ventures. As Tune Group has now bought Team Lotus Ventures it means we can now use the Team Lotus name for 2011 and beyond. We are all delighted we can go into 2011 with total confidence in what we own, and what we can take to the track.

“However, given that this is contested by Group Lotus we think now is the time to clear this matter up so there can be no further arguments. We have therefore today issued proceedings in the English High Court for a declaration that Team Lotus Ventures has the rights to use the Team Lotus name and everything associated with that brand in relation to F1.

“Racing under the Team Lotus name from 2011 means our licence with Group Lotus has now come to an end. In reality, this has nothing to do with how we will go racing in 2011, as the ownership of Team Lotus has been clearly defined for many years. David was approached a number of times about selling the rights of Team Lotus Ventures, including one official offer of from Proton/Group Lotus themselves.

“That must have been tempting for David, as the rightful owner of the Team Lotus brand and its rights. Oddly enough, Group Lotus also recently tried to revoke the Team Lotus trade marks at a hearing at the Trade Mark Registry, but they were unsuccessful. I suspect David’s misgivings about their previous offer to buy were justified by that action,” Asmat revealed.

Continue reading after the jump.
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Saab to use BMW engines for upcoming models?

September 28, 2010 at 1:19 am By Jacob Alexander Filed Under BMW, Cars, International News, Saab

According to an unconfirmed source close to the Saab and BMW discussions, both automakers have come to an agreement in which BMW will supply engines to Saab. Saab is said to be purchasing BMW engines to use in their upcoming 2012 9-3 model.

Officially both companies have not announced or confirmed anything, but the source says that news of the pact will be announced on the 29th of September, which is just before the Paris Motor Show.

According to a statement by Spyker, parent company of Saab, they confirm “that talks are ongoing and will give further details once a final agreement has been reached”. Spokesmen for BMW and Saab both declined to comment. Obviously hot on everyone’s lips is Saab’s new MINI rivaling 9-2 model.

According to the same source, they have been allowed to use the Mini Countryman’s platform for the new Saab car. Along with this, they are in talks about buying BMW’s refined diesels. There is also word that Saab plans to tap into BMW’s Efficient Dynamics initiative.

We’ve only got a few days to wait to confirm the legitimacy of these claims, but if you think about it, it does save a lot off your R&D budget by just buying engines from a reliable source. Who better to buy it from than BMW? We will keep you updated as and when we hear something substantial.

Source

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Honda Jazz Hybrid to use 1.3 liter IMA system

September 27, 2010 at 9:08 pm By Paul Tan Filed Under Cars, Honda, Hybrids and Alternative Fuel

Honda have released some new images of the new Honda Jazz Hybrid, set to debut at the Paris Motorshow very soon. As expected, the IMA hybrid motor and control system are the same 1.3 litre system shared with the Insight, and not the more powerful system in the CR-Z.

Honda claims a combined fuel consumption figure of just 4.4 litre per 100km. As the hybrid system works on a simpler motor assist concept as compared to Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Jazz Hybrid like the rest of its H-badged hybrid cousins will not be able to run on full EV mode on demand, instead it can only switch to an electric motor only mode under certain medium to low speed conditions.

Thanks to the chassis construction of the Jazz, the battery pack and power control unit have managed to be hidden in the area under the boot floor, keeping the normal above floor boot area of 300 litres. This also allows the Jazz’s flat-folding “magic seats” to fold the same way as the non-hybrid versions.

Look after the jump for the new images released by Honda. Our man Danny Tan will be on the scenes from the Paris Motorshow to bring you live coverage from the floor!
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Proton R3 Rally Team achieve commendable results at IRC San Remo

September 27, 2010 at 8:05 pm By Jacob Alexander Filed Under International News, Motorsports, Proton

The Proton R3 Malaysia Rally Team seem to be going from strength to strength, as they recently achieved a commendable result at the Intercontinental Rally Challenge, San Remo round in Italy. Frenchman Gilles Panizzi, who drove the Satria Neo S2000, finished 18th in the S2000 category and 20th overall, within massive a field of 101 competitors.

Proton had no intention of entering the San Remo Rally and only participated due to the cancelation of the Indonesian Rally. Even then, their entry was purely for development purposes.

“Overall, Proton’s outing in San Remo has been great. For an event that we did not plan to compete in much earlier and only decided on after the cancellation of the Rally of Indonesia, the result in San Remo and especially on tarmac was commendable. More importantly, it enabled the team to make tremendous gains in terms of further developing the Satria Neo S2000 given Panizzi’s vast experience and the pivotal role he previously played in helping to develop the Peugeot Super S2000 rally machine,” said Proton Group Managing Director Dato’ Syed Zainal Abidin.

The big hitters such as Peugeot, Skoda, Fiat, Ford and Honda occupied the top spots. The first ten of the 20 spots were all Peugeot Super S2000s, with Italian Paolo Andrerucci being crowned the winner of the event in the Peugeot 207 Super S2000. The four others were Skoda Fabia Super S2000, three in the Abarth Grand Punto S2000, one in a Ford Fiesta Super S2000 and another in a Honda Type R.

Unfortunately for Panizzi’s teammate, Niall McShea, his rally came to an abrupt end as his power steering pump seized up on the first day. A problem which the team says has never happened before. Out of the total 101 competitors, 40 suffered from retirements.

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