Paul Tan's Automotive News » Local News

Perodua to go the sedan and above 1.5L capacity route?

Anthony Lim — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:02:13 +0000

According to a report, Perodua is expected to obtain permission soon from the government to build cars with an engine capacity larger than 1.5 litres, which it has up to now been unable to do under the limitations tabled in the original arrangement between the government and the company when it was set up in 1993.

The ongoing arrangement dictates that Perodua is only allowed to produce compact cars with an engine capacity of under 1.5 litres. The NST report quotes an unnamed source, who said that the existing arrangement was being reviewed as part of the revision of the National Automotive Policy (NAP).

Toyota Etios with Perodua badging by Theophilus Chin

The source said that if the revised agreement yields positive results, Perodua will be able to begin assembling and producing cars with engine capacities ranging from 1.6 litres to 1.8 litres, effectively marking the beginning of the company’s venture in the sedan segment, the report adds.

The source also hinted that the new models with larger engine capacity would probably be prototyped along the lines of the Bezza concept, which made its debut at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show in 2010 as a show car.

He added that the introduction of new cars in the segment can be seen as a logical step and consistent with the increased demand for sedan choices among first-time car buyers in the country, but added that the company would not be reducing its focus on the production of compact cars.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Petronas roving F1 car kicks off Malaysian GP activity

Anthony Lim — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:09:03 +0000

Formula 1 is set to resume next month, and with the Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix being the second race of the 2012 season, expect to see a host of promotional activities coming about in the weeks ahead. Petronas has already kicked off its pre-race branding, with its roving F1 car – housed in a see-through display and mounted on a truck – doing the rounds in KL late last month.

The display showcased the 2011 MGP W02 car, and roamed KL streets over a period of three days, making pit stops at KLCC and Pavilion as well as the Petronas service station in Jalan Klang Lama. It also made an appearance in the Federal Territory Day Parade in the city, held on January 28.

The participation in the parade as well as the roving agenda is part of the activity helping to create a buzz about the upcoming race, which is set to run on March 23-25. Expect just about everyone who has some form of involvement in the circus to follow suit shortly.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Taking on challenges at the Nurburgring with Castrol EDGE

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:21:00 +0000

Last year, Khairul Izwan was among very few lucky motoring enthusiasts who got the chance to experience the Nurburgring, or also known as the “Green Hell” with a BMW M3 which pumps out 414 hp and 400 Nm of torque from its 4.0 litre V8 power house. “Awesome” was an understatement when Khairul shared his ultimate driving experience.

This year, Castrol Malaysia is bringing back the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel, in which one “strong” Malaysian will be flown to the legendary track in an all-expense-paid driving experience of a lifetime. Before that happens, let’s take a moment and talk about the challenges of driving a powerful piece of machine such as the BMW M3 at one of the world’s most demanding tracks.

The 22.8 kilometer-long Nurburgring is widely considered as the most challenging track in the world with up to 160 corners. The track is used for both motorsport and for vehicle testing by many vehicle manufacturers. These car manufacturers rely on the track’s various characteristics which include high speed straights and turns, slow to medium speed corners and undulations to test the driveability of their cars.

Due to the high G-forces and the extreme pressures exerted to various parts of the car such as the suspension, the transmission and most critically the engine, driving at the Nurburgring takes a huge toll on the car and on the driver as well. Compared to other tracks, the Nurburgring has more and longer straights for one to negotiate. At such straight sections of the track, the car will be spending a lot of time at its top speed, with the driver’s foot on the accelerator pedal as though his or her life is dependent on it

This means that during this time, the engine, which in this case is a 4.0 liter V8 will be working at its rev limits for a longer time. Imagine driving an M3 at up to 8,000 revs for approximately 30 seconds? You can hear the beautiful engine note as the engine is working very hard to deliver all of its horsepower to the rear wheels! (minus the transmission loss of course).

In such gruelling conditions, the choice of engine oil is crucial, whereby the oil acts as a lubricant for the moving parts of the engine. At such extreme engine speeds, the engine is running at high temperature and the oil has to continuously adapt and respond to the engine’s needs.

The BMW M3 which was used at the Nurburgring last year had Castrol EDGE in its engine, allowing the engine to consistently maintain its reliability and maximise performance. Certain parts of the engine such as the cam and its followers can receive pressure of up to 10,000 kilograms per square cm and that is equivalent to the pressure of being approximately 100,000 meters below sea level!

Now the new Castrol EDGE is engineered with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology™ which continuously responds and adapts to the engine’s different need under various extreme driving conditions, including pushing the BMW M3 in and out of every corner of the Nurburgring. This new technology minimizes metal to metal contact and maximizes engine performance at the same time.

No doubt Castrol EDGE’s unique adaptive strength is designed to perform under the most extreme pressure giving drivers the confidence and freedom to push the engine closer to its limits. Now you have the chance to experience the performance of both the Castrol EDGE and the BMW M3 at the best place in the world that you can possibly do it, the “Green Hell”! To put yourself in the running to win this ultimate driving experience and other cool prizes, click here now!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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ASEAN NCAP pilot project set for May launch, programme protocols being finalised with ANCAP next week

Anthony Lim — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:31:06 +0000

The ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) pilot project is set to have its protocols finalised next week in Sydney, when representatives from the programme meet their Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) counterparts for a week long collaboration on the matter. The release of the ASEAN NCAP protocol is set for March 16.

This follows on the collaborative Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Global New Car Assessment Programme (GNCAP) and the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) in December last year to establish a pilot project for a South-East Asian NCAP to elevate motor vehicle safety standards, encourage a market for safer vehicles and raise consumer awareness in the region.

Signatories to this MOU include ANCAP as well as the Automobile Associations of Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. ANCAP’s role will be to provide technical and program support to the ASEAN NCAP to ensure that the program pursues protocols and procedures that will ensure meaningful, accurate and reliable test results. It will also assist ASEAN NCAP in aligning with other NCAP’s around the world.

The need for an ASEAN NCAP has been brought about by fact that different safety features exist between specific models car manufacturers sell in their region and those exported to or assembled in ASEAN countries – the argument goes that Euro NCAP results aren’t applicable to the same model cars as sold in ASEAN, since cars sold in the region usually have fewer safety features in order to attain a lower selling price.

The project partners will be tasked to independently select the vehicles for testing based on the least expensive – and usually less well-equipped – variant of the model available in the major markets of the region. The selection of non-airbag variants are also set to be included.

Testing is set to be carried out here in Malaysia at the new PC3 Crash Lab test facility being developed by MIROS, will be based on the 40% front impact crash test regulation of the World Forum for Harmonisation of Vehicle Regulations (ECE: Reg. 94), but at a speed of 65 km/h – the test protocol and procedures are to follow that of the European NCAP covering the protection of both adult and child.

The first internal crash test, including a pre-ASEAN NCAP crash test, is set to take place sometime in late April to early May, with ASEAN NCAP crash test 001 scheduled for May 24, in conjuction with the 2012 annual meeting of the Global NCAP scheduled to be held in Kuala Lumpur. The event will also see the launch of the PC3 lab and ASEAN NCAP programme.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Proton sponsors Le Tour de Langkawi for the 17th year

Danny Tan — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:15:01 +0000

Proton has extended its support to the country’s most prominent cycling event, Le Tour de Langkawi. The national carmaker has been sponsor for 17 years now, since the race was first held in 1996. At a recent simple ceremony, Proton presented a mock key and the symbolic Blue Jersey to LTDL 2012 organisers. The Blue Jersey will be worn by the tour’s overall Sprint Champion.

This year’s sponsorship of the tour will include the supply of a fleet of vehicles, including technical support, maintenance, manpower and merchandise giveaways during the cavalcade. The Proton cavalcade is a procession of vehicles that will proceed ahead of the main racing peloton in promoting the tour. The Inspira, Saga, Exora, Persona, Perdana and Satria Neo will all be used.

“Le Tour de Langkawi provides Proton with a fantastic opportunity to showcase our range of vehicles not only to the local audience, but also the international riders, teams, officials and television viewers who will be following the race,” Proton’s Director of Group Marketing, Branding and Motorsports, John D. Chacko said.

LTDL 2012 has attracted a total of 120 cyclists representing 22 local and international professional teams. They will compete in a grueling 1414.8 km race stretched over 10 days. This year’s race will see the teams being flagged at the Proton Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam for Stage 6, which is a 108 km charge to the peak of Genting Highlands. As you can imagine, this will be the toughest stage of the tour, which starts on 24 February in Putrajaya.

Here are some pics of the Inspira with R3 kit and LTDL official car livery. Nice rims!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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World Bloggers and Social Media Awards 2012

Paul Tan — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 12:06:39 +0000

We’ve been nominated in the Best Auto Blog category for the World Bloggers and Social Media Awards 2012, organised by the Social Media Week 2012 happening this month at the Putra World Trade Centre from the 13th to 17th February 2012.

If you think we deserve to win the award, head onto the Award site (click here) and vote for us! We’re currently leading in the category with about 285 votes, but it would be awesome if we manage to get a bigger lead ahead of the other nominees!

While you’re at it, perhaps you can vote for our sister publication OHBULAN! under the Best Entertainment Blog category as well. Hurry, there’s only 1 day left to vote!

Malaysia Social Media Week (MSMW) is an event connecting people, content and conversations around emerging trends in social and mobile media. It is organised by the Social Media Chamber and endorsed by the Kementrian Penerangan Komunikasi dan Kebudayaan. Catch it at PWTC from the 13 to 17 February.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Auto Bavaria Sg. Besi celebrates CNY: Special activities including extended test drives and special promotions on selected models

Harvinder Sidhu — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:08:52 +0000

Auto Bavaria is celebrating CNY this weekend at all of its branches and at Auto Bavaria Sg. Besi, there will be activities including Chinese Caligraphy and a Lion Dance, apart from extended test drive sessions which will allow guests to test drive their preferred BMW models on an extended course, up to Putrajaya and back.

Models available for test drives include the all-new 520i which is powered a Munich’s 2.0 litre TwinPower Turbo engine. Other models include the 528i, 520d, 323i and more. There is also a special 0% financing package for the 3-Series range and special deals on limited pre-registered units of the BMW X1, 5-Series and the BMW X3.

For more information, please feel free to contact Auto Bavaria Sg. Besi at 03-9223 3200. Have a good weekend everyone

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

New Ford Ranger in camouflage spotted, it’s coming soon!

Danny Tan — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:31:28 +0000

Yours truly was in Shah Alam yesterday when this camouflaged truck came into sight. It was heading towards the Guthrie Expressway, so I stopped at a petrol station to swap seats with my passenger. Camera out and ready, I realised that the “mystery truck” in question is the new Ford Ranger.

Covered in black and white swirl patterns to confuse and distract, we can still see the outline of the Blue Oval logo on the tailgate. In any case, the three square tail lamp design is a giveaway, and looking at the large size of the thing, it can’t possibly be any of the one-tonne pick-up trucks on sale today.

On the Guthrie, we overtook the truck for the side profile and front views you see here. And the front shots confirm that it is indeed the Ranger T6.

Recently, we saw a video of a blue new Ranger towing all its rivals, and now this. Looks like the second quarter 2012 local launch of the new truck is right on track. We will be getting the new 150 hp/375 Nm 2.2-litre engine, paired to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

The range topping 3.2-litre Wildtrack model is not yet confirmed for now, but we think it’s a matter of time before the fully decked out “ultimate Ranger” hits town.

We have been previously told that the 2.2L Ranger will be competitively priced against rivals, and not far away from the outgoing Ranger. At launch, only the dual-cab XLT will be offered; other cab styles and the XL will come later. The Wildtrak model, if brought in, will be priced to match the Hilux 3.0 and Triton 3.2, despite boasting a longer kit list.

We’ve driven the new Ranger in Thailand already, and think that it’s a truck worth waiting for. Watch out for the test drive report!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Ex Proton CEO Tengku Mahaleel to make shock return?

Danny Tan — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 01:39:36 +0000

Tengku Tan Sri Mahaleel Tengku Ariff, the outspoken former Proton chief, is set to make a shock return to the national carmaker, which is now under DRB-Hicom’s ownership. Business Times reports that the ex CEO will probably return as chairman of Proton, leading the company into another new phase.

“More or less, it’s almost a done deal,” a source close to DRB-Hicom told BT. If true, TM will replace Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh, who was one of the bidders for Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s 42.74% stake in Proton.

Tengku Mahaleel’s last stint in Proton ended on 30 September 2005, when his contract was not renewed by the board of directors led by Datuk Mohammed Azlan Hashim, then the chairman of Proton. TM joined Proton as Vice Chairman, Strategy & Operations in 1996 and was with the company for over nine years. The official statement then explained that Proton is a “national asset, an institution of sorts and not a private entity.”

Prior to his departure, he did a controversial interview with a Chinese daily, disagreeing with the way the national automotive industry was heading. “Automobile assembly means you just need screw drivers, you don’t need die and mould and engine factory. If the government only needs the automobile assemblers, we can then grab a Mitsubishi car, fix it with a Proton emblem and say: ‘Nah, this a Proton car’,” he was quoted as saying.

Not a man to mince words, that’s for sure!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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New Lexus GS is coming soon – now open for booking

Danny Tan — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:31:35 +0000

Lexus Malaysia has opened order books for the all new Lexus GS, which means you can now put your name down to be one of the first owners of the GS when it arrives soon.

First unveiled at last year’s Pebble Beach show in the US, Lexus’ challenger to the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 is a huge departure from the car it replaces, looking more dynamic and sporty than its German classmates, something it has never been before this generation.

Click to enlarge

There are quite a few variants to choose from. Lexus Malaysia will import in the GS 250, GS 250 Luxury and GS 350 Luxury. By the way, this is the first time Lexus is putting an engine below 3.0L in the GS, allowing it to better match German rivals, who all have lower entry points. F-Sport variants for both engines will also be available.

The GS 250 is powered by a 2.5-litre V6 with D-4S direct port injection and Dual VVT-i. Maximum output is 206 hp at 6,400rpm and peak torque of 253 Nm is delivered at 4,800 rpm. 0-100 km/h is done in 8.6 seconds on to a top speed of 228 km/h. The V6 is matched to a Super ECT-i close-ratio intelligent six-speed automatic transmission, with sequential manual shift function. It’s likely that most GS buyers will opt for this engine.

Click to enlarge

There’s also a good selection of colours available, both for the exterior and cabin. Prices range from RM370k to RM488k OTR excluding insurance. We’ve seen it in the metal and sat in it before, at motor shows, and can say that the GS has never been more desirable.

Click here for full details and a hi res gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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New Perodua Alza SR – entry level variant from RM53k

Danny Tan — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 02:26:48 +0000

Perodua has introduced a new variant of its MPV called Alza SR. SR stands for “Smart Ride” and this is an entry level variant positioned below the Standard and Advanced spec. It is available for viewing and booking at all 178 Perodua showrooms nationwide now.

Selling for between RM53,013.50 and RM56,513.50 on-the-road with insurance in Peninsular Malaysia, the new variant, available in BX Manual and BZ Auto spec, is Myvi SE priced. Previously, the cheapest Alza was the Alza GX Manual at 55,503.50, so this new one lowers the entry price by about RM2,500.

“The introduction of the Alza SR variant will make it even more affordable for Malaysian consumers looking to upgrade to a more spacious vehicle. Our customers like the versatility and functionality that Alza offers and do not mind having less features available compared with the standard and other variants. However, it does not mean we have compromised on the safety and the aesthetics of the Alza SR,” Perodua MD Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said.

Under the hood, nothing has changed, but what’s the difference is spec? The Alza SR makes do with “UV protected glass” on the windscreen only, as opposed to on all glass panels, and there’s no rear wiper. The wing mirrors are manually operated. Fog lamps, airbags, ABS, EBD and BA are unavailable, but that’s the case for the 1.5 SX and EZ as well, so it’s expected.

Note that in the Alza SR automatic, the parking brake has been moved to between the front seats (it’s foot operated in other auto Alzas), and the front seats are separated, not bench style. For the manual variant, there’s no change in layout.

The Alza SR comes in three colours: Glittering Silver, Ivory White and a new hue, Mystical Purple. Perodua targets to sell about 400 units of the Alza SR monthly, which will take up around 13% of Alza’s monthly sales.

Alza 1.5 BX Manual (Solid) – RM53,013.50
Alza 1.5 BX Manual (Metallic) – RM53,513.50
Alza 1.5 BZ Auto (Solid) – RM56,013.50
Alza 1.5 BZ Auto (Metallic) – RM56,513.50

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A rear end uncovered for the first time?

Danny Tan — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 03:07:56 +0000

Remember the yellow Proton P3-21A that showed the upcoming sedan’s face uncovered? It looks like a partial rear shot of that car has been circulating online, showing us the tail lamps without any masking. Even as we analyse it, bear in mind that this may or may not be the final production design.

Shown at funtastickodesign, the lone image shows a rear lamp cluster that’s unlike the wraparound old Subaru Legacy style rear design of the Tuah concept, so perhaps Proton is looking at a more contemporary look. The edges look a bit sharp and abrupt, though.

We can see that there’s a chrome bar visually linking the two sides of the tail lamps, like how Jaguar does it for the XF.

What we see here is also consistent with what’s visible from the masked test mules running around – full red with a clear strip running in the middle, with part of the lamp extended into the boot lid.

Do you prefer this or the rear end look of the Tuah concept?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Reports: Volkswagen AG directors visit DRB-Hicom, looking into technical collaboration with Proton

Danny Tan — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:15:30 +0000

Reports linking Volkswagen with Proton have emerged, with the national carmaker’s new owner playing host. According to Business Times, DRB-Hicom is understood to have hosted two Volkswagen AG group directors last Thursday. The duo met with key stakeholders of DRB-Hicom, including its top management.

“They also reviewed all Proton Holdings Bhd’s models,” the publication’s unnamed source revealed. BT says that the Volkswagen directors came down to evaluate the possibility of having a collaborative technical agreement on technology transfer with Proton.

“This is the first step and I think that there will be many more such meetings before a deal could be struck,” their source added.

As all of us know, this isn’t the first time Europe’s biggest carmaker Volkswagen is being linked with Proton; the previous marriage attempt broke down because of issues over majority stake. With a new owner in place (DRB-Hicom is VW’s local assembler), will this latest “on” in the “on-off” relationship stick, or will it fizzle out like it always does?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Malaysians to take on new Ford Ranger in the “Global Ford Ranger Challenge” – winner drives the truck home!

Danny Tan — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 09:34:52 +0000

Ford will officially kick off the “Global Ford Ranger Challenge” tomorrow (1 February), a unique, worldwide experiential marketing campaign leading up to the launch of the all-new Ford Ranger later this year. The campaign will give Malaysians a chance to put the famous “Built Ford Tough” claim to the ultimate test by taking the new Ranger through tough, real-life challenges.

You can begin submitting ideas for the challenge online tomorrow and five lucky entrants will be selected to get behind the wheel to turn their idea into reality. Not only will these five be the first consumers in Malaysia to test the Ranger T6, the one with the best challenge (as chosen by the public) will drive away with his/her very own new Ranger XLT 2.2L Manual!

Entries can be submitted to www.fordrangerchallenge.com.my or via Facebook. The time frame is from 1 Feb to 15 March, and the finalists will be announced on 31 March. A new Ranger will then be loaned to each of the five finalists, who will carry out their nominated challenge with the help of a professional film crew provided by Ford. Footage will be uploaded to the Global Ford Ranger Challenge website for the public to view and vote.

The winner of the truck will be announced at the launch event of the new Ranger in Malaysia. Additionally, people who vote online will be entered into a lucky draw for a range of prizes. Online voting will happen throughout the month of May.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Mitsubishi ASX upgraded for 2012 – now with 17-inch alloys and smart key/push-start ignition, RM138k

Anthony Lim — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:25:06 +0000

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has announced the introduction of the upgraded ASX crossover. The 2012 year changes for the vehicle includes new 17-inch alloy wheels and a smart key/push-start ignition system.

Also new to the ASX are auto-retractable side mirrors, and the premium leather seats now feature enhanced comfort and increased lumbar support.

Otherwise, the vehicle continues on as is – the 150 PS 2.0 litre MIVEC mill and six-speed CVT box remains unchanged, as are the rest of the features list, which includes items such as magnesium paddle shifters, coloured LCD multi-info display, 2-DIN touchscreen entertainment system and rear view camera.

The 2012 ASX – which hits the showrooms on February 2 – is available in four colours, these being White Pearl, Mica Black, Red Metallic and Titanium Grey, and is priced at RM138,156 (on the road, exclusive of insurance), complete with a 3-year/100,000 km warranty and two-year maintenance package.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Goodies list in conjuction with Federal Territories Day 2012

Anthony Lim — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 02:48:32 +0000

Well, here’s some cheer for those with traffic compounds issued by DBKL before March 1, 2011. In an ad taken in The Star yesterday, the Ministry of Federal Territories has issued a goodies list in conjuction with Federal Territories Day 2012, with a number of freebies, discounts and incentives on the cards.

Among the items for the FT of KL is a flat-rate reduction to RM30 for all traffic compounds issued by DBKL before the aforementioned date. The flat-rate payment is valid for a month, and runs from February 1 until February 28.

Labuan folk, in the meantime, get a 50% discount on all parking compound fines, and that’s good for the entire month of February too. Elsewhere, items include free usage of public and sports facilities, the duration depending on the territory, and for a whole week (Feb 1-7), the usage of all public toilets in KL is free, if that sort of thing matters to you, that is.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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MotoGP test at Sepang – free viewing from grandstand

Danny Tan — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 06:18:54 +0000

Want to catch some MotoGP action for free? Sepang International Circuit will be opening its main grandstand for free viewing of the annual MotoGP pre-season test, to be held from tomorrow (31 January) till Thursday (2 February). This is the first of three official test sessions before the season starts in Qatar on 8 April.

This three-day session will give fans a first glimpse of the new 1,000 cc MotoGP bikes, which replace the 800 cc bikes from this year. For the riders, not only will they have to get to know their new machines, it will also an emotional return to the track that claimed the life of San Carlo Honda Gresini rider Marco Simoncelli last October.

The key factory teams will have unchanged line ups. Casey Stoner will defend his world title alongside Repsol Honda teammate Dani Pedrosa, the Yamaha factory team have Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies, while Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden will be flying the Ducati flag.

The off-season saw some transfers, including that of Andrea Dovizioso (Yamaha Tech3) and Alvaro Bautista (Honda Gresini). Hector Barbera will now be the sole rider of the Pramac while Karel Abraham will continue with Cardion AB Racing Team. Colin Edwards and Randy de Puniet joined Forward Racing and Aspar Team respectively, where they will ride new CRT-spec machines. A total of 21 riders will form the MotoGP grid this year.

Besides getting to watch the tests for free, those who make their way to Sepang will get to buy special early bird tickets for the 2012 Malaysian MotoGP (21-23 Oct). In addition, for every MotoGP ticket purchased during the test session, fans are entitled to a 50% discount on 2012 Formula 1 Malaysian GP hillstand tickets from as low as RM30.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Mandatory jail term for reckless drivers being mulled

Anthony Lim — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:35:51 +0000

According to reports, the government is considering enforcing a mandatory jail term for reckless drivers who cause deaths in road accidents, if it’s deemed that such a move can help reduce road accidents and fatality rates.

“If the jail term can reduce the percentage of fatalities on the road, then we have no choice. Educating and appealing alone does not seem to work,” Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein told reporters two days ago, in response to Road Safety Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye’s proposal that the government impose such a move.

Lee had earlier issued the call for the mandatory jail sentence to be carried out after the 25th Ops Sikap saw a 63% increase in traffic summonses being issued compared to the previous operation.

Hishammuddin said that enforcement agencies and the government have tried their best to educate the public through awareness programmes and direct appeals, but the public’s attitude hadn’t changed, with the fatality rate increasing.

Meanwhile, in related news, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha said that there was no need to amend the Road Transport Act 1987 to carry out such a move, as the mandatory jail sentence for dangerous driving to the extent of causing death is already provided under the act, Bernama reports.

Kong said the existing provisions under the RTA for serious driving offences had a mandatory jail sentence provided, besides a fine. “The offences cover reckless driving that causes death, reckless and dangerous driving, unsafe and inconsiderate driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” he said.

He added that Section 41 of the act states that causing death by driving recklessly or dangerously carries a jail term of not less than two years and not more than 10 years, a fine of not less than RM5,000 and not more than RM10,000, in addition to offender’s driving licence suspended for not less than three years. Under Section 42, the offence of reckless and dangerous driving, but not causing death, carries a jail term of up to five years and a fine of between RM5,000 and RM15,000, the report adds.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Honda Jazz Hybrid to debut in Malaysia sometime in Q1

Anthony Lim — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:36:06 +0000

Word has it that Honda Malaysia is set to introduce the Jazz Hybrid in the country sometime in the first quarter, further widening the choice of hybrids for the consumer. There’s no indicative pricing for the five-door hatch, which made its debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, but it should be nicely clear under the RM100k mark and by all accounts cheaper than the Insight, currently the cheapest hybrid in the country.

The Jazz Hybrid is powered by an 88 PS and 121 Nm 1.3 litre SOHC i-VTEC engine, with a new generation Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system made up of a 14 PS and 78 Nm DC brushless electric motor and 0.6 kWh Ni-MH battery pack.

A few subtle cosmetic tweaks help distinguish the car from its petrol-based sibling – these include revised headlamps (with a blue-tint), a new front grille and reworked front and rear bumpers, as well as a new tail lamp cluster. There’s also that signature Lime Green exterior shade to denote its eco-friendly character; wonder if that colour will do well here.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Ford’s Malaysia sales up by 145% in 2011, led by Fiesta

Danny Tan — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 09:04:01 +0000

Ford today announced that 2011 retail sales in Malaysia rose 145% from the previous year to 7,188 vehicles. This big jump represents the brand’s best annual performance since 1997. Ford is distributed here by Sime Darby AutoConnexion.

Unsurprisingly, the fantastic result owes a lot to the popularity of the Ford Fiesta, the sharply styled and feature rich B-segment global car. 2011 was the first full year of sales for the Fiesta, which found 4,297 new homes.

Before the Fiesta, the Ford name here has been synonymous with “Ranger” for the longest time, and sales of the pick-up truck rose more than 17% to 2,274 units. Sales of the C-segment Focus also increased 58% from the previous year to 263 units.

“This is an outstanding achievement for both Ford and our partner Sime Darby AutoConnexion, and highlights the unmatched commitment we have to our business and our customers in Malaysia,” said David Westerman, Regional Manager, Asia Pacific, Ford Export & Growth Operations.

Last year, Sime Darby AutoConnexion launched the S-MAX MPV and the facelifted Mondeo, both powered by 2.0-litre Ecoboost turbocharged engines. 2012 will see the local launch of the all new Ford Ranger “and other segment defining products,” teased Westerman.

Could the new Focus be one of these “segment defining” cars? Thai production of the new Focus will begin around mid-year at the company’s new plant at Rayong, and the C-segment entry could sneak in before 2012 comes to a close.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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RHB Now ‘Race for a Ducati’ campaign kicks off

Anthony Lim — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:40:11 +0000

RHB Bank has kicked off its RHB Now Race for a Ducati campaign, in which three Ducati Monsters are up for grabs. To be eligible for the prizes, customers need to perform any financial transactions via RHB Now and play the RHB Now Racer online and mobile game, which can be accessed via various channels, from PCs to iPads.

As mentioned in our earlier post, the top 10 customers with the highest score will win the weekly prizes, and the top 10 players with the overall highest scores obtained during the campaign period will be invited to a grand finale challenge, which will see the three eventual winners of the stunning two-wheeler.

The campaign is set to run for eight weeks, from today until March 15, so there’s plenty of time to play the game. In conjuction with the campaign, there’s also a nationwide Race for a Ducati roadshow, with no less than 20 stops at selected RHB Bank branches having been outlined.

The Monster will be on show, of course, and the Diavel and Streetfighter 848 are scheduled to make appearances at some stops. You’ll be able to buy Ducati merchandise as well as bikes at each roadshow – RHB Bank esteemed customers and staff will be able to enjoy exclusive package deals on Ducati products.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Perodua sold 180k cars in 2011, takes 30% market share

Danny Tan — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:02:01 +0000

Perodua had a media briefing in KL this morning, revealing its 2011 performance and targets for this year. In a difficult year for the auto industry, the brand once again became the top selling marque in Malaysia, shifting about 180,000 vehicles in 2011. Retaining this title means that Perodua has been top of the tree for six consecutive years now.

The 180k figure is slightly down from the record breaking 188,600 vehicles sold in 2010, but then the total industry volume (TIV) also fell from from 605,156 to just below 600k units. Perodua’s market share also saw a slight decline from 2010′s 31.2% to 30%.

Exports grew from 4,000 units in 2010 to 8,000 units last year. Perodua revealed that Sri Lanka is its top export market now, taking over from UK. Bosses say that once overall cost is further lowered, exports will be ramped up, with a target of 20,000 units by 2015, or about 10% of total output. For 2012, they plan to export 10,000 cars.

Of the 180k local total, Perodua sold 81,904 units of the Myvi, which retains its title as Malaysia’s best selling car, 60,675 units of the smaller Viva, and 37,402 units of the Alza, which is the biggest car it sells.

Click to enlarge chart

2011 saw the introduction of the new Myvi in June, before Perodua wheeled out the “Lagi Power” 1.5-litre Myvi SE and Extreme in September. The Myvi is also exported CBU to Indonesia as a Daihatsu Sirion, launched at IIMS in July.

It wasn’t an easy year to launch such a big model, with the launch coming so soon after the triple disaster (earthquake, tsunami, nuclear) that hit Japan, but the company pulled through (Perodua MD Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh singled out partner Daihatsu for their efforts) and reclaimed lost ground with the popular new Myvi.

Among other obstacles they faced were the amended hire purchase act that came into effect mid 2011, the weak global economy, a strengthening Japanese yen and the recent Thai floods, although effects from the latter was minor compared to the Japanese disaster.

Looking ahead, Perodua sees 2012 as cautiously positive. Datuk Aminar revealed the target of a 4% sales increase to 188,000 units on the back of network growth and “aggressive promotions” throughout the year. Besides new competitors, Perodua sees inflationary pressures, slower growth and Bank Negara’s credit tightening measures (Malaysia’s household debt levels are very high) as challenges.

At the event, Perodua also announced a new flagship 3S Centre to be located in Section 19, Petaling Jaya. This RM30 to 40 million facility will be the model for future sales and service centres in Malaysia and abroad. It will also be the central region’s hub in the company’s new “decentralization” approach. Construction will start in March or April and it’s expected to start operations in 2013.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Fancy a Ducati Monster 795? You can simply win it in the RHB Now Racer contest!

Harvinder Sidhu — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:14:36 +0000

If you’re a big fan of two-wheelers, then you’ll know the Ducati Monster 795 to be one pretty impressive bike. So, if you fancy the chance of riding one off for free, then you’ll be chuffed to hear that RHB Bank is putting no less than three of these 87 hp Monsters up for grabs.

There’s only one way to win one, and that’s through the RHB Now Racer game, which can be played via the Internet or through a mobile device. In the game, which runs until March 14, participants will take on the role of a RHB Now’s Avatar riding a legendary Ducati bike

The objective of the game is to manoeuvre along one of eight racing tracks that are unlocked weekly, meticulously dodging and jumping over various obstacles – such as sticky tar on the road and giant spikes – along the way. You’ll need to pick up as much treasure as possible and cover as much distance as you can within the given 60-second time limit to rack up the highest possible score.

The top 10 contestants with the highest game scores every week get weekly cash prizes, and the scores are locked in the ‘RHB Now Racer’ leader board. The top 10 overall game winners with the highest game score during the campaign period will then be chosen for the grand finale challenge, where they will compete on a finale route at a dedicated site to see who takes home those three Ducatis.

Sounds simple enough, and the neat thing is that the game can be played numerous times. The scores, however, are only recorded when you make transactions on RHB Now, Internet & Mobile Banking, which of course means that you’ll need to be a RHB Bank/RHB Islamic/Easy by RHB customer registered with RHB Now Internet & Mobile Banking to be in the running for those bikes and the seven grand finale consolation prizes – starting from RM7,000 – as well as 80 weekly prizes of RM200 each.

Each transaction above RM50 carried out via RHB Now online or mobile – and these includes BillPay, Western Union, prepaid reload, PayPal as well as online and mobile purchases from participating merchants – offers you the chance to play the game and lock-in a high score.

You’ll find the game online via ‘RHB Now Racer’ campaign website at www.rhb.com.my, and if you’re doing the mobile route, the ‘RHB Now Racer’ mobile game application can be downloaded from App Store (for iPad & iPhone) or Android Market (for Android phones).

All the necessary details about the RHB Now Racer campaign can be found online at www.rhb.com.my, so if you’re a RHB customer, head on over to see how you can try and make that Monster yours.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

Car Clubs to battle each other out at the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel Car Club Contest!

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:46:23 +0000

Similar to the first Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring challenge Castrol Malaysia organised last year, the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel will see the participation of local car clubs in a car club-specific contest of the challenge yet again.

The driver of the campaign is the new and improved Castrol EDGE which is now engineered with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology™ which makes it the strongest and most advanced performance oil from Castrol. The all-new EDGE is able to adapt to different requirements needed by the engine, including the immense pressures of pedal-to-the-metal driving at the Nurburgring!

To take part in this contest and to win attractive prizes, the car clubs will have to publicize the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel, which also takes place at Castrol Malaysia’s Facebook, via their respective online forums and social media. These car clubs will be judged based on three main categories namely, Most Prominent Key Art Feature, Most Active Forum Discussion and the Best Use of Social Media.

This contest is now open to all car clubs in Malaysia and this phase of the contest will end on 27th February, however the earlier the car clubs starts, the higher the chance of winning. Top 10 car clubs will be selected from the first phase and representatives will be invited to participate in an exclusive driving challenge at the MAEPS Motorsport Park on 17th March 2012. Car clubs will battle it out in BMWs with engines lubricated with the all-new Castrol EDGE which also minimizes metal-to-metal contact and maximizes engine performance.

The grand prize winner will walk home with RM5,000 cash and Castrol EDGE products. 2nd and 3rd places will be awarded RM3,000 plus Castrol EDGE goodies and RM1,500 plus Castrol EDGE goodies respectively. The remaining six places will not walk home empty handed, as consolation prizes will be awarded.

To take part in the event, simply email the name of your car club and the contact number to harvinder@driven.com.my. Does your club has what it takes?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

Mercedes-Benz’s turn to do the triple play – C-Class Coupé, SLK and CLS introduced in Malaysia

Anthony Lim — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:25:20 +0000

Earlier this week, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced the new CLS, SLK and C-Class Coupe in the country. The company is looking at the models to effectively widen and deepen the brand’s offerings of niche models, and complement MBM’s portfolio of CBU models already available in Malaysia.

The C-Class Coupé, which made its international market debut in June last year, is available in three petrol engine guises here, these being the 156 hp C 180 and 204 hp C 250, with the 306 hp C 350 available as special order. All three models wear a BlueEFFICIENCY tag.

The C 180 Coupé, which comes wearing an AMG Sports package, is priced at RM305,888, while the C 250 Coupé goes for RM388,888.

Meanwhile, there are three variants available for the third-generation SLK, which made its market debut last March, and these are the SLK 200, SLK 250 and SLK 350, all with a BlueEFFICIENCY suffix again.

Power outputs are 184 hp and 204 hp for the SLK 200 and SLK 250 respectively, while the 3.5 litre V6 mill in the SLK 350 offers 306 hp.

Features include the Benz Airguide draught-stop system, and the SLK 200 gets the Dynamic Handling package thrown in. In terms of pricing, only that for the SLK 200 was mentioned at the launch, and this one goes for RM460,888.

Lastly, the second-generation CLS, which arrives in its 306 hp CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY form, with the 408 hp V8-equipped CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY available only through special order. The CLS 350 rolls in at RM760,888.

We’ve driven the three cars – MBM hosted a media drive up to Penang this week, so stay tuned for the first drive impressions of all three models next week.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Castrol Malaysia brings you the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel – win the ultimate driving experience in a BMW M3 at the Nurburgring!

Harvinder Sidhu — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:56:22 +0000

It is a new year and it is time for yet another exciting round of the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring! Just like the first edition last year, this sequel will see one lucky grand prize winner head to the legendary Nurburgring race track in Germany to enjoy the ultimate driving experience with the BMW M3, which uses Castrol EDGE with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology™.

Now engineered with Titanium Fluid Strength Technology™, the new and improved Castrol EDGE is the strongest and most advanced performance oil yet from Castrol. It is up to 40% stronger than a leading competitor and stronger for up to 35% longer. The new Castrol EDGE is able to withstand high pressures of up to 10,000 kg per square cm. That’s hard to picture, so try thinking of the pressure exerted by two elephants standing on top of a stiletto!

To take part in this 2- stage contest is pretty simple. All you need to do is to head to Castrol Malaysia’s Facebook page and click on the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring: The Sequel application. Here you will have to complete as many laps as possible in a virtual BMW M3, on a virtual Nurburgring! There is a trick to winning as well, enlisting your friend’s help on Facebook will help boost your distance. This simply means that the more you and your friends play, the higher your chance of winning.

There will also be Pit Stops during the virtual race where you will face three challenging questions. This stage of the contest which starts today, ends on 27th February 2012. From here, the Top 20 will get the chance to battle it out at the grounds of the MAEPS Motorsport Park in a BMW.

Here, the top 20 finalists will undergo a defensive driver training and battle it out in a BMW in the ultimate test of driving skills at the exclusive Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring event. We will select one grand prize winner who will get the opportunity to push a BMW M3 around all 72 corners at more than 200km/hour at the iconic Nurburgring track.

The 2nd place winner will get to enjoy the Castrol EDGE Experience Nurburgring at the comfort of his or her own home with a Castrol EDGE-branded Apiga AP1 Professional Racing Simulator Cockpit which comes complete with a steering wheel, pedals, Sony Playstation 3 console, Gran Turismo 5 and a 40-inch Sony Bravia television, cool huh!

The 3rd place winner will walk home with a Tag Heuer Kimi Raikkonen F1 watch while 4th and 5th places will get an iPhone 4S 16GB and a Microsoft Xbox Kinect 360 respectively. That’s not all folks! 6th to 10th places will walk home with a pair of Oakley Hijinx shades while 11th to 20th places will get an iPod Shuffle 2GB. Now that’s a lot of attractive prizes to be given away – if only we were eligible! Hurry up and show who’s the strongest before the contest ends!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

Nasim hands over Pug 308 Turbo to ‘Gimme More’ winner

Anthony Lim — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:11:46 +0000

Lim Hui Min of Kuala Lumpur didn’t expect to be having two Peugeots in her household, but now she has. The owner of a 207 sedan now has an additional Pug, in this case a 308 Turbo, and she didn’t have to fork out a sen for it.

Lim was chosen ahead of 434 other Pug 207 owners as the winner of the Peugeot 207 Gimme More campaign, which sought to reward customers who purchased either a 207 or a 207SV during the campaign period, which ran from July to December last year.

Participants were required to answer three questions and complete a slogan describing what they like the most about the 207. A total of 50 winners were selected from the entries, with Lim bagging the grand prize. The following 20 winners received an iPad2 each, while the remaining 29 winners received exclusive Peugeot merchandise.

Local Pug boys Nasim recently handed over the car to Lim at a special handover ceremony at Peugeot Puchong. Speaking at the ceremony, Nasim COO Datuk Samson Anand George said that the campaign gave the company a chance to see just how creative its customers were in describing what they liked the most about the 207.

“It wasn’t easy picking the 50 winners and judging by the response we received, there are many proud 207 owners,” he said.

Lim’s winning entry was: “I love the Peugeot 207 because it brings back the joy of driving!”
The 33-year-old IT consultant, who purchased her 207 in September, said she came up with her slogan while in her car during heavy traffic.

“I was stuck in a jam and the idea came to my mind. I like the stability and smoothness of the 207. I didn’t think I would win, so it was a pleasant surprise,” she said. Despite winning the 308 Turbo, Lim said she will continue to drive her 207 while her husband will use their brand new ride.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Proton P3-21A Tuah spotted on carrier along the Guthrie

Anthony Lim — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:08:17 +0000

Reader Iwan spotted what looks to be a Proton P3-21A being transported along the Guthrie Corridor Expressway earlier today. Nothing much to reveal, since it’s under wraps, but the car cover is thin enough to offer an outline of the vehicle, which seems to be wearing less disguise and cladding save white masking points at the rear, door panels and headlamp area. In any case, expect the car to be spotted more in the coming future …

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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Malaysia in discussions with automakers about making the country a hybrid and EV assembly/distribution point

Anthony Lim — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 04:11:41 +0000

The Malaysian government is in the midst of discussions with foreign automakers for the latter to set up electric and hybrid vehicle assembly and distribution points here, Bernama reports.

Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir, who made the announcement, said that the discussion is at several stages, adding that the government will wait for the respective companies to make the announcement.

“The manufacturers are from many countries, but I cannot reveal the details for now. Some are serious, and some want to think about the idea,” he told reporters at the launch of the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Showcase in KL on Wednesday.

Mukhriz said the plans are in line with the government’s aspiration to transform Malaysia into an electric and hybrid vehicle hub in the region, and also said that Malaysia is trying to look at it from the standpoint of the Asean market rather than just the local market alone.

He added that the government is also talking to several automotive parts and component makers to establish plants here.

“We understand also that there are a number of different components in the car manufacturing industry, including in the hybrid business. So once we are talking wih the automotive sector, we are also talking to the parts and components suppliers to convince them to look at Malaysia as a serious destination for their investment, while at the same time supporting the industry as a whole,” he said.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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BMW Group Malaysia achieves record sales in 2011, ActiveHybrid models to make local debut this year

Danny Tan — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:41:06 +0000

BMW Group Malaysia, in a press briefing this morning, announced that 2011 was a record breaking year for them in terms of sales. The company sold a total of 5,604 vehicles last year, consisting of 5,003 BMWs, 301 MINIs and 300 Motorrad bikes. This surpasses the sales figure of 2010 by 24%, making Malaysia one of the fastest growing markets in the entire BMW Group network.

At the event this morning at Pavilion KL, Briscoe, together with Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir, unveiled the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics Concept Car, which will be on show at the posh mall till this Sunday. The futuristic concept car is featured in Mission Impossible 4: Ghost Protocol, where it is driven by saviour of the world Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise.

The BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is quite a sight, but it’s not coming to your neighbourhood BMW showroom anytime soon. What is coming are BMW’s ActiveHybrid models, in F30 3-Series and F10 5-Series form, sometime this year. But don’t expect cut price BMWs – these models are powered by 3.0-litre turbo engines, and will not enjoy the tax breaks given to hybrids from Toyota and Honda.

If you didn’t know, BMW’s ActiveHybrid models aren’t all out eco cars, they pack in plenty of performance. We’ve covered them it detail already – click here and here for more on the ActiveHybrid 3 and ActiveHybrid 5. We’ve also driven the ActiveHybrid 7, click here to read the review.

Hybrids aside, BMW Group Malaysia is without doubt the biggest proponent of diesel engines in Malaysia, and it will continue to bring in ‘d’ models. They say that diesels now account for 15-20% of total sales in Malaysia, which is encouraging, but to increase that number, the company is hoping that the Government will do its part in this matter.

“The Malaysian government’s long stated intention of introducing Euro IV spec for fuel for instance is a critical step towards the country’s evolution into an actual green tech advocate, and it’s our hope that greater emphasis will be given towards the alternative engine technologies that are readily available today in the discussion of the second review of the National Automotive Policy scheduled for this year,” said Geoffrey Briscoe, MD of BMW Group Malaysia.

“It is vital that while we pursue new alternatives to achieve sustainability, attention is also given to improve on existing tech such as Advanced Petrol and Diesel engines which run on the lower sulphur content Euro IV spec fuel, as well as the introduction of incentives for all hybrid tech including those for hybrid vehicles above 2,000 cc, as these engines can prove to be more efficient than their smaller counterparts,” urged Briscoe.

If this wish list comes true, BMW won’t be the only party benefiting, but Malaysian car buyers as well.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 14:55:11 +0000.

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