Some British Auto industry news:
Jaguar has been given the green light to build a £160 million business park in Whitley, Coventry. This is an ambitious project covering 70 acres of land around the present plant. It is expected to create upto 2000 jobs, I guess a welcome news, following the closure of the Peugeot plant in Ryton.
The project was actually approved five years ago but got delayed because of environmental reasons.
They have now agreed to build a £30000 play park and contribute £1 million towards public transport and green travel schemes.
It's really nice to hear news like this.
Tags: British auto industry Whitley Jaguar
Jaguar given green light
Seat changes decision and crash test results
Spanish car-maker Seat has bowed to consumer pressure and reversed its decision to remove the seatbelt reminder system from the León. Euro NCAP was told that the safety feature would be axed at the end of August 2006, as part of a cost-saving exercise and asked Seat to reconsider this decision. After receiving no response, Euro NCAP issued a press release on the 25th August 2006 informing consumers of Seat’s proposed action. Public reaction to that information appears to have convinced Seat’s management to continue to fit the seat belt reminder system as standard.
Seat issued a press release stating that no Leóns had been produced without the seatbelt reminder system. Following a request from Euro NCAP for clarification, Seat has now informed Euro NCAP that they have no plans to remove the seat belt reminder from the León.
Euro NCAP Chairman, Claes Tingvall, said, “This shows the influence that public opinion can have on car manufacturers when it comes to maintaining the highest levels of safety. We are pleased that Seat have responded as they have.”
Today, Euro NCAP issues its latest set of crash test results.
Ratings for four new cars are released: the Toyota Auris, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Magentis and Skoda Roomster. Two of the cars, the Auris and the Roomster, are awarded a five star rating for adult occupant protection. The Magentis and the Sante Fe are both awarded four stars.
Despite the Skoda’s excellent five star adult occupant rating, Euro NCAP’s tests identified a weakness in the Roomster. Main battery power cables are vulnerable to damage as they are routed down the front of the battery. In the frontal crash test, these cables were damaged resulting in a loss of electrical power. As a consequence, the seat belt pretensioners failed to fire. Skoda proposed the fitment of reinforced sleeves over the cables to protect the cables. They also proposed a modification that maintained sufficient electrical supply to fire the pretensioners, even if the cables were damaged. As a consequence, Euro NCAP allowed a retest. In the retest, the cable protection was found to be inadequate with some cables again being damaged. However, the other modifications did ensure that the seat belt pretensioners operated correctly.
Euro NCAP asked if Skoda planned to modify cars already sold but was disappointed to learn that there are no plans to do this. Skoda has appllied the modifications to vehicles from VIN number TMBVCB5J875025783.
As well as a maximum five star rating for adult occupant safety, the Toyota Auris also achieves a commendable three stars for pedestrian protection. However, the Hyundai Santa Fe is given a zero-star rating for its pedestrian protection after failing to score a single point. The Kia Magentis also does extremely badly, scoring only three points for a one-star rating.
Claes Tingvall, “These are appalling results from these two Korean manufacturers. It has taken the car industry a long time to address the issue of pedestrian safety but several manufacturers are now making improvements and the Toyota Auris joins a growing list of three star cars. For the Santa Fe not to score a single point shows that Hyundai have made no effort whatever to protect pedestrians and reflects a worrying disregard for the safety of this important group of road-users. Manufacturers like Hyundai and Kia are now a long way behind the front-runners and it is high time that they realise that such poor results are unacceptable.”
The ratings for these cars in more detail go to their site here .
For further information please contact the Euro NCAP office: office@euroncap.com.
Tags: Citroën C4 Picasso Euro NCAP Seat Skoda Toyota Auris
Toyota the next No. 1
Most analysts predict that Toyota will become World's No 1 automobile manufacturer ahead of General Motors (GM) sometime during 2007.
However,the top guys are apparently "not slacking" as this article in Businessweek reports.
Tags: Business week Toyota
Mitsubishi Motors to unveil "Prototype-X" concept
Tokyo, December 18, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will unveil the Prototype X concept for a next-generation high-performance 4WD sport sedan at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (the Detroit Motor Show). The 2007 NAIAS runs from January 7 to 21 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and opens to the general public on January 13.
The Prototype-X concept car on show is an advance development model for the new Lancer Evolution due to be launched in the 2007 fiscal year. Embodying Mitsubishi Motors' trademark "fun to drive" qualities throughout, Prototype-X features styling based on the current Lancer but was developed to project a visibly higher performance image. The concept model is fitted with Mitsu-bishi's S-AWC*1 (Super All-Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics system that delivers the ultimate in four-wheel drive traction and handling control together with a new turbocharged MIVEC*2 engine with an aluminum cylinder block and a high performance 6-speed manual transmission.
Prototype X image sketch1
Prototype X image sketch2
In addition to the Lancer and Prototype-X, Mitsubishi Motors will be featuring the Outlander sport utility vehicle, which was released in the U.S. market this October. Outlander is powered by a new high-performance 3-liter V6 MIVEC*2 engine together with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver strong acceleration and ample power at cruising speeds. The Raider pick-up, winner of the 2006 Baja 1000 (Stock Mini class), will also be showcased along with other local production models.
*1 S-AWC: Super All-Wheel Control. Vehicle dynamics system that integrates control of drive torque, braking, steering and suspension at all four wheels.
*2 MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control
Tags: concept Mitsubishi Prototype-X
Open Source Car
I was going through the Businessweek site when I chanced upon this article. It's about an amazing project using open-source practices to build a car. Of course, I was incredulous. As far as I know, open source is limited to ICT. Or so I thought. Tine for a Paradigm Shift.
Markus Merz is the founder and "maintainer" (that's the title on his business card) of the OScar project with the Tag line - Reinvent Mobility.
- One of the submitted designs
The Idea as given on the site:
A community of people plans and develops a new car in the web. The idea is about the goal to develop a simple and innovative car, but also about the way how this goal is achieved. We would like to convey the idea of Open Source to “hardware” and we want OScar to be the precursor for many different projects in this field.
Wishing the project all the best. Maybe I could contribute in my own small way.
Tags: Markus Merz Open source car OScar
New Lancer global premiere
Tokyo, December 11, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will give the new North American market specification Mitsubishi Lancer compact sport sedan its global premiere at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (the Detroit Motor Show). The 2007 NAIAS runs from January 7 to 21 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and opens to the general public on January 13.
The new North American market Lancer uses a larger body than the current model, with an overall length of 4570 mm (35 mm longer), overall width of 1760 mm (65 mm wider), overall height of 1490 mm (60 mm taller) and wheelbase of 2635 mm (35 mm longer). The design uses elements from the Mitsubishi Concept-X shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show to create a handsome, purposeful-looking shape and a confident, stable stance.
The new Lancer rides on the same next-generation platform employed by the company's Outlander on-road SUV for outstanding crash safety and rigidity. The powertrain mates a new high output (152 hp) low emission 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC*1 engine to a 6-speed SportronicR CVT*2 transmission. This is the first Mitsubishi vehicle destined for the North American market to offer a CVT. Some trim levels are offered with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that allow the driver to shift gears manually without taking his hand off the wheel. Delivering outstanding economy and environmental performance, the driveline is complemented by an equipment and appointments specification that elevates driving enjoyment to a new level in a total package that satisfies all the requirements for a next-generation sport sedan.
*1 MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control
New U.S. market Lancer
Tags: Lancer Mitsubishi MIVEC
Five-star rating for four cars
Euro NCAP has recently released the test results for a total of eight new results.
Four of the cars achieved the maximum five-star rating for adult occupant protection – the Ford Galaxy, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the Lexus IS and the Citroën C4 Picasso. All of the other cars, including the Honda Civic and Audi Q7, achieved four-star ratings.
The five-star cars were praised by Euro NCAP’s chairman, Claes Tingvall, “These manufacturers clearly believe that their customers demand the highest levels of safety and they are able to provide that very high level of protection in their cars. It is reassuring that such manufacturers consistently achieve high ratings.”
In contrast, it was widely reported that Honda expected the new Civic to achieve a five-star rating. However, to Euro NCAP’s disappointment, the tests have shown that it is a four-star performer, an uncompetitive result compared with other cars in its category.
Claes Tingvall, “It is disappointing, though perhaps not surprising, that some manufacturers should try to make it known that they are expecting the highest award from Euro NCAP. Honda state on their websites that they expected a five-star rating for the Civic and continue to do so even after our rating has been published. Such statements are clearly misleading and confusing to the public. Honda has yet to produce a five-star car and should wait until our results are known before suggesting otherwise.”
Audi’s Q7 suffered a rupture of the footwell in the frontal impact, a result of poor welding. Audi state that they have improved production quality as a result of Euro NCAP’s tests, yet they decided not to submit the vehicle for re-test.
Claes Tingvall, “The Q7 is an expensive, prestige vehicle from a marque known for the quality of its products. Those who have bought the car will be disappointed that it has not been rated higher than some older, cheaper vehicles in the same category. People paying a premium price for a vehicle must surely expect to get the highest levels of protection."
Six of the cars achieved a four-star rating for child protection with the other three cars being awarded three stars.
The Honda Civic was the only car to be awarded three stars for its pedestrian protection. All other cars were awarded two stars except the Kia Carnival which was awarded only one star.
Claes Tingvall, “It is reassuring to see Honda continuing their good results in pedestrian protection. There are now a number of three-star cars and we hope that the trend will continue to spread across the industry. At the same time, it is disappointing to see Kia achieve only one star. It shows that some manufacturers still do not take pedestrian safety seriously. Clearly they have much to do to catch up with the others. We would like to see them and other poor performers place a much greater emphasis on protecting this vulnerable group of road-users.”
Read the ratings for these cars in more detail here.
Tags: Audi Q7 Citroën C4 Picasso Euro NCAP Ford Galaxy Honda Civic Lexus IS
Camry the Car of the Year
The Toyota Camry has been named as the Car of the Year by the American Motor Trend Magazine. All Camry variations, including the hybrid are included in this award. The redesigned Camry is the hottest-selling car in US.
Read the AP news here.
Star Motoring Blog
Noticed that the Star has a motoring blog but never bothered to go through it. I finally did and well, it's not bad. Not as detailed or upto date as Paul Tan's blog but is one of the best.
Check it out here.
Tags: Blogs
New Toyota Camry and Avanza
Some quick updates:
1. UMW Toyota Motor launches new versions of the Avanza and the Camry.
2. The new "global standard all-round SUV" Mitsubishi Pajero*1 had it's world debut at Le Mondial de l' Automobile 2006 (Paris Motor Show 2006) being held in Halls 1-8 of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles from September 28 (September 30 for the general public) through October 15. More details here.
Tags: Mitsubishi Toyota
Cracked windscreen repair
When you are travelling at around 110KMs/hour (the speed limit on most highways in Malaysia), aven a tiny stone hitting your windscreen can do a lot of damage. Read here how I got a hairline crack on the windscreen of my wife's Wira.
On checking with my old mechanic Paul, I found out the the cost of a new windscreen for a Wira was around RM350 (laminated glass). This excludes the service charges which is around RM250.
Checking on the web led me to the website of a workshop. I called them and found that it would cost me around RM170 to repair the windscreen. So last friday, I drove down to their workshop to have a look.
Found out that the hairline crack was 10 inches long and that it would cost me RM200/ to get it fixed.
Danny (owner fo the shop) told me that it would be ready in about an hour and so we left the car there. When I came back I was quite happy with the results. Truth be told, the crack did not disappear competely as I had imagined but as you can see from the pics below you can hardly see it unless you are looking for it.
Danny told me that it was due to the fact that water and dirt had already gone into the crack. For best results, it is advisable to get the crack fixed asap.
BEFORE
Closeup
AFTER
Closeup
The address of Mechanix Windscreen Services:
No. 23, Ground Floor, Jalan 17/45
46400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Tel: 03-7955 5636
Fax: 03-7954 5636
Mobile: 012-236 7636 or 016-227 7636
Email: danny@windscreenrepair.com.my
Tags: Cracked windscreen Personal
I haven't read that many article, which are kind to Proton. However, recently came across this one while surfing the net. Motor Industry: don't ridicule Proton by Brian Edwards. You can even download a copy of it in the pdf format.
He write:
Increasingly, if you want your car manufacturer to be around long enough to honour the warranty, it's beginning to look as if Proton might just be a better bet than some of the names people don't joke about.Read it for yourself and decide.
Tags: Brian Edwards Proton
New hybrid technology
I am really excited about one recent development in the Malaysian auto industry, namely the release of two vehicles equiped with a revolutionary hybrid fuel technology called Hydrogen Fuel Technology (HFT) or "Hydroxene".
L.M. Star Autoworld Sdn Bhd, a relatively new player in the market, recently released two Chinese made vehicles, the LMG Tourer and the LMG Trekker, both of which incorporates the above mentioned technology.
The "Hydroxene" technology was developed by Malaysian scientist Dr. Halim Ali. I am guessing that the Hydroxene unit breaks down water into Hydrogen and Oxygen and uses them as fuel along with the normal petrol. BTW, Dr Halim is the director of Hydrogen Fuel Technology (M) Sdn Bhd. According to Dr. Halim, fuel consumption can be reduced by half with the hydroxene technology.
The unit can also be incorporated into other vehicles and costs between RM2000 and RM3000.
Some details about the vehicles:
1. LMG Tourer: An SUV, the vehicle seats seven people. It is priced at RM58,888 (not sure whether that is the "on-the-road" price).
2. LMG Trekker: A four door pickup truck, priced at RM84,888.
Both come with 2.4 litre engines and are available in 5 colours: silver, red, champagne, black and white.
MORE INFO:
1. The company is planning to invest a lot of money (RM178 million according to the NST and RM378mil according to the Star) in a vehicle assembly plant (which may be the biggest in South) at either Johor or Kota Tinggi.
2. President and CEO of L.M> Star Autoworld Sdn Bhd is Abdul Uzza Shikh Mohamed .
3. At present the vehicles are being assembled by Oriental Assemblers Sdn Bhd under a 2 year contract.
Related Links:
- Scientist claims to have cracked water-fuel secret
- LMG Trekker Details
Tags: Hydroxene LMG Tourer LMG Trekker Hybrid Vehicle
Puspakom check
I finally got a buyer for my car. Learnt that it is now compulsory to take the car for sale to Puspakom for a checkup. So drove down to their branch in Alor Star. Their full address is:
Lot 74, Jln Perak,
05150 Mukhim Mergong,
Alor Setar, KEDAH.
04-7337663 (tel)
04-7310201 (fax)
Took the guy just 30 minutes to check my car and give it the OK chop. It cost me RM30/
NOTE: Don't forget to take along a copy or original car registration papers (Perakuan Pendaftaran Kenderaan, JPJ) when you take the car for the checkup.
Tags: Puspakom
The PWC report in brief
According to a recent report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, Proton was mismanaged from 1996 (when Proton bought a 63.75 per cent stake in Lotus Group International Ltd) until late last year. FYI, Tengku Tan Sri Mahaleel Ariff was Proton's chief executive from 1997 until he was removed in July last year.
The PWC study was commissioned by Proton chairman Datuk Mohamed Azlan Hashim and the present management on September 2 last year.
The report was revealed by a financial weekly and a foreign newspaper (leaked?)
The report mentions that some projects were implemented without proper consultation or consent, billions of ringgit in expenditure spent without indepth discussion, and the board being unaware of legal problems.
Proton managing director Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir does not rule out the possibility of going to the courts.
Tags: Proton PWC
Putting your brand on other's cars
A few days back, I was having a cup of tea with a colleague and he was going on about how Naza cars are just rebadged foreign cars. In his words, "just rename and put the brand KIA". Thus according to him, they don't deserve the "national car" status and government protection.
To me there is nothing wrong with rebadged cars or producing your brand version of other car manufacturer. In fact it is not new and has been practised in the auto industry for a long time. Suzuki produces cars in India through Maruti Udyog, a joint venture with the Indian Goverment. The Suzuki Swit is sold there as the Maruti Swift. It is also sold as the Pontiac Firefly (Canada), Chevrolet Sprint (USA/Canada) and Geo Metro (USA/Canada).
Lotus has agreements with several car companies to produce own-brand versions. This includes the Lotus Cortina (Ford), Lotus Sunbeam (Chrysler) and Lotus Carlton (Vauxhall).
TAGS: Lotus Maruti Naza Suzuki Swift
Weaknesses in two best-selling cars highlighted
Recent Euro NCAP’s tests have highlighted weaknesses in the safety systems of two of four cars whose results were released recetnly.
In the Nissan Note, one of the ISOFIX mounts for the child restraints broke in Euro NCAP’s side impact test.
Following investigation of the failure, Nissan advised Euro NCAP that the ISOFIX child restraint mount was one from an early batch which was not welded correctly. Nissan has introduced a countermeasure and additional checks. Nissan intends to recall all affected cars to modify them.
With the Toyota RAV4, the car’s airbags fired late during the frontal crash test. This was caused by the cable to a sensor becoming detached early in the impact.
Toyota have changed the routeing of the wiring harness and modified the airbag control unit so that the airbags deploy at the correct time even if the sensor connection fails. A second frontal test, on a modified car, showed that the airbags deployed correctly, although the sensor cable was also damaged in that test. These modifications were introduced into production before Euro NCAP carried out its second test.
In contrast to Nissan, Toyota informed Euro NCAP that they do not intend to modify cars that have already been sold to the public.
The Toyota RAV4 has become only the second small off-roader to achieve a three-star rating. The Land Rover Discovery achieved only one star for its pedestrian protection. So far, no large off-roader has ever scored more than two stars.
The Chevrolet Kalos was the worst performer of the four cars reported, with a three-star adult occupant protection rating. However, the result is better than that of the Aveo, the results of which were released in February. Chevrolet had advised Euro NCAP that the Aveo was an improved version of the Kalos.
The complete test results were available from 28th July 2006 onwards.
SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS
SUPERMINI:
CHEVROLET KALOS
Adult Occupant Protection: 3 stars
Child Occupant Protection: 3 stars
Pedestrian Protection: 2 stars
NISSAN NOTE
Adult Occupant Protection: 4 stars
Child Occupant Protection: 3 stars
Pedestrian Protection: 2 stars
SMALL OFF-ROADER:
TOYOTA RAV4
Adult Occupant Protection: 4 stars
Child Occupant Protection: 4 stars
Pedestrian Protection: 3 stars
LARGE OFF-ROADER:
LAND ROVER DISCOVERY III
Adult Occupant Protection: 4 stars
Child Occupant Protection: 4 stars
Pedestrian Protection: 1 stars
TAGS: EURO NCAP Nissan Note Safety Toyota RAV4
Hush hush
Proton tried to hush it up but it got out. There was no way they could have kept it quiet for long anyway.
- 800K cars on sale in the market (250k more than usual)
- 300 odd companies may close down. Many of these are component makers from Proton and mostly Bumiputra owned companies.
- Proton only producing 10K units per month as compared to 15K-16K cars previously.
The only company doing well is Perodua with good demand for it's Myvi models.
Sounds bad but I guess it might do some good in the end.
BTW, someone is cybersquatting. Check out this site. too bad Perodua didn't buy up the domain earlier.
Tags: Components Perodua Proton
Dashboard fixed
Finally got the dashboard fixed. If you don't know what I am talking about, read this post here. Just got my car back yesterday.
I had sent it to Muzlee Kusyen - a small shop in Kepala Batas (near the airport). Though it took a little more extra time and cost more than was promised, I am really happy with the final results.
I paid RM200/ and my Wira's dashboard looks as good as new. I probably saved about RM150/ (according to estimates) as compared to what it would have cost me, had I sent it to any authorised Proton workshop (EON or Proton Edar).
Before
After
Thanks a lot En. Mohd Adzlee. You saved me some.
Here's the full address in case you are around Alor Star and need to repair your dashboard or cushion.
No. 30, Gerai MDKP, Pekan Kepala Batas, 06200, Alor Star, Kedah Darulaman
Tags: Accident Proton Repair
Chery QQ in Malaysia
The Chery QQ and QQRacing (QQR) was launched by Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Awang Adek Husin yesterday. The Cheryy cars are distributed in the ASEAN region by Alado Automobile Sdn Bhd.
According to Alado chairman Musa Saad, they plan to sell only 200 units of the QQ annually.
The Chery QQ has an engine capacity of 8712cc and is selling at RM39,888. On the other hand, the sporty QQR is priced RM41,888.
One of their concepts (Good Luck)
Both cars come in 5 speed manual transmission and powered by a 12 valve 3 cylinder DOHC engine. The model was introduced in China in 2003 with over 250,000 uints sold worldwide.
Related posts: Chery Cars Hit Malaysian Roads
Tags: Alado Chery QQ
While in Melbourne
While I was in Melbourne, I noticed that most cars there had an engine capacity of 2000cc and above. Most of them also had maximum speeds of 300KM/hr and more. However, the speed limit is similar to that of Malaysia on most highways, i.e., 110KM/hr. Of course in the bush, there is no speed limit.
Their parking system was really confusing. Wonder why they just don't use a ticketing system. Would make life much easier for a lot of people.
All their car number plates had a slogan at the bottom. Previoulsy it was (for cars in Victoria) Victoria - Garden state . Then Victoria - On the move.
Now, it is Victoria - The place to be.
I also didn't notice a single Proton car the entire week I was there.
Tags: Australia Melbourne Speed limit Victoria
Proton-Perodua merger
According to motor industry analyst Professor Garel Rhys, a merger between the two Malaysian car companies will create a stronger entity, which would be better equiped to compete with the bigger foreign rivals.
I usually put up only the link to the article but it is no longer active now. Fortunately I was able to save it on my computer. Here is the full article which appeared in the NST, Friday June 30 2006.
----------------
Industry expert: Proton-Perodua merger inevitable
By Kang Siew Li
siewli@nstp.com.my
MOTOR industry analyst Professor Garel Rhys sees a merger between national carmakers Proton Holdings Bhd and Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) as inevitable in the future to achieve success.
“I don’t think having two Malaysian car companies can be sustainable. Proton and Perodua have to become one company. A merger will create a strong company and help it to better compete with bigger, foreign rivals,” he told Business Times yesterday.
Rhys, a renowned motor industry expert and director of the Centre for Automotive Industry Research at the UK’s Cardiff University, is currently in Kuala Lumpur on a brief visit.
He also commended the move by Proton’s new management to sell its entire stake in Italian motorcycle maker MV Agusta SpA to Gevi SpA for e1 (RM4.63) as a wise one.
“There didn’t seem to be any synergies there. It (MV Agusta) was a company with small turnover but huge loss. As such, it was most unlikely that Proton could have turned the company around in anything under five years,” he added.
Rhys said Proton has a bigger responsibility to become a much bigger car player in the mass market.
“It must be focused on making cars. Much time, money and resources would have been diverted to MV Agusta (to turn it around) when really this is the time when Proton must develop itself as a carmaker and survive in the ever-more competitive world car market,” he said.
He said the National Automotive Policy (NAP) is a good framework for developing a sustainable car industry in Malaysia.
“It ultimately boils down to entrepreneurship and good management in order to make the plan work,” he said.
The NAP moots the idea of sustainability whereby car companies can make profits in a more liberalised and open market.
“It also indicates that for a period of time, the Malaysian Government will continue to offer financial help to local car companies to put them in a position to compete once the market is fully liberalised,” he said.
“However, that period has to be used to make them (local car companies) more efficient. It cannot be used as an excuse for long-term protection in the local car industr y,” he added.
Rhys reckons that a period of not more than seven years would be enough time for local car companies, namely Proton and Pe r o d - ua, to prepare themselves for full and open competition.
”I don’t think Proton has the luxury of a long period of protection. The world is different. It has got to prepare itself for sustainability and frankly, that’s what the NAP is all about,” he added.
“Malaysia could become one of the best locations for making vehicles in Asean.
And it does not have to be the only one because in the European Union, for example, you can make cars in the UK, Spain, Italy and Ger many,” he said.
Tags: Garel Rhys Merger Perodua Proton
Saudi Prince Waleed's 38th Car
Diamond studded US$4.8 Million SL600 Mercedes.
Check out this real Bling bling which is not meant for wearing but instead for driving. A fender bender with it is going to real costly.
Thanks Ziana.
UPDATE: Proven to be a fake. The car is not encrusted with diamonds but instead with 300,000 Swarovski crystals by Garson USA and was exhibited as part of DUB Magazine's Custom Auto Show & Concert. There is also no evidence that this car belongs to Prince Waleed. Still costs a Million dollars.
Modified Naza Ria 2
Finally got the hydraulics installed on the modified Naza Ria.
Total cost: RM16,000.
Related posts:
Modified Naza Ria
Tags: Modification Naza Ria
Dashboard malfunction
Never wipe your dashboard with glass cleaner fluid, especially if you drive a Proton car and have to park it under the hot sun.
I learnt it the hard way.
Still don't know what had happened. There must have been some kind of reaction because when I got out of my office in the evening, I found out that the top covering on my dashboard had curled up.
Went around for around 2 whole hours searching for a workshop which could fix it. Some said that I would have to get the whole dashboard changed which means around RM300 +. So went to a few chop shops but they didn't have the Wira dashboard.
Finally found a cushion repair shop in Kepala Batas (near the airport) who told me that he could do it for around RM100.
Have to go back next week.
Thanks for showing me the way, Chandra. You have saved me a lot of dough.
Tags: Accident Proton Repair
Modified Naza Ria
Requirement: To enable a wheel chair bound senior citizen to ride comfortably without getting off the wheel chair.
Problem: To convert the Naza Ria without major modifications to the body and with a limited budget.
Solution: To install a remote controlled hydraulic ramp in the back.
Limitations: Still need muscle power to push invalid into the back of the vehicle. Also some safety concerns.
I feel that instead of a ramp, there should have been a hydraulic controlled lift. Anyway, at the budget (around RM15,000) they did a great job.
What do you think? Do you feel that they could have done it any other way?
Some pictures (hydraulics still not installed yet):
Tags: Modification Naza Ria
It is the Satria Neo
I was wrong (read my last post). The new Proton is called the Satria Neo. Maybe calling it the Satria Replacement Model (SRM) is wrong.
The fact that they registered two urls here and here points to the possibility that these two names were in contention.
I am not sure but maybe one of the guys who came up with the name is a Matrix fan. Well I guess it is a much better name than "Desire", which might appeal to the ladies but macho guys (those who love to drive fast and hard) might run away from. And that would be a mistake as we see the particular profile of those this car is targeted at.
BTW, the tag line for the Satria Neo is "Desire has a new name".
(updated: 19th June, 2006)
Related links:
- Proton hopes new model, campaign to boost sales
- Proton Satria Neo 1.3 and 1.6 in-depth.
Tags: Neo New Model Proton Satria SRM
Satira replacement model
Just read in the Mobile Talk blog that the Proton Satria Replacement Model (SRM) will be launched on June 16, 2006 and will be called either Neo or Desire (most probably the later).
Here is a picture, which was posted on the blog.
Another pic from the Lowyat.net forum.
The rumour seems to be correct as there is already a website with some sneak previews. 
Related Link: Introducing the Satria Neo
Tags: Desire New Model Proton Satria SRM
Another new model from Naza
Actually not really a new model but who cares. I might be mistaken but this might be some kind of record. I mean, it is not even a month since the Naza Sutera was launched and he comes out with another car - a Malaysian version of the Peugeot 206.
The Naza 206 Bestari was launched yesterday by Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak. This follows the MOU signed in September last year between Naza and Peugeot.
The 206 Bestari manufactured by Naza Corporation Sdn Bhd (NCSB) comes with a 1.4 litre multi-point fuel injection engine with four-speed automatic transmission.
Again dual airbags and automated braking system (ABS) are standard accessories.
I have always loved the sleak designs of Peugeot cars but I could only admire them due to their high after tax prices here. People also warned me that there was a problem with spare parts of European cars were really expensive (if they were available). The car is priced at an affordable RM68,888 (on the road). Even more amazing is the fact that the car will have a three-year or 100,000km warranty. The car has 435 local components produced by 24 vendors
The car is available in six colours : Midnight Black, Quartz Blue, Quick Silver, Racy Red, Aegean Blue and Svelte Grey.
Automobiles Peugeot's International Operations Division executive vice-president Bernd Schantz was also there at the launch and said the 206 Bestari was the result of eight months of hard work between Naza and Peugeot.
I forsee that Naza might very well over take the two other "National cars" soon considering that Naza is not only targeting the domestic market but is actively looking at exporting their cars. Peugeot has given them permission to export the 206 Bestari to right-hand drive countries in the Asian region. They expect to sell 10,000 units in the first year in both the local and international markets.
I am beginning to admire Naza Group chairman and CEO Tan Sri Nasimuddin SM Amin. I was watching his interview in TV1. On being asked what the selling points of the car was (or somethign like that, he pointed out: 1. Sporty design, 2. Value for money 3. 4 doors, 4. Safety features. I noticed he stressed the "value for money part", which shows that he understands the feelings of most Malaysian customers.
Tags: Bestari Naza Peugeot Proton Sutera
Silky competitor to Proton and Perodua
Another new competitor enters the small car market and it is locally made.
The Naza Sutera, which means 'silk' in Bahasa Malaysia, was launched by the Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on the 22th of April during the ground-breaking ceremony for Naza's new automotive plant on a 103ha site in Bertam, Kepala Batas. The plant is estimated to cost around RM1.3 billion to build.
Styled by Pininfarina of Italy, the concept model was first unveiled in 2002. The platform which orginates in China was further tuned by Lotus Engineering (owned by Proton) to improve ride and handling. The chassis conversion to right-hand-drive and body styling were then carried out by Naza's R&D. people. I think that they have done a much better job than Proton.
The 5-Door hatchback is powered by a 4 cylinder 1.1 litre DOHC 16-valve EFI engine and it has about 75% local content.
The Sutera comes in two models, the Sutera GS and the Sutera GSi. The only difference is that the GSi model comes with reverse parking sensor, silver interior finishing and square chromed exhaust pipe finish. It also has 2 more exclusive colours (Onyx Black and Citrine Yelow). The prices (on-the-road with insurance) are RM35,998 and RM36,998 for the GS and GSi models respectively. At present both models come with a five-speed manual gearbox.
What I found amazing is that dual airbags (driver and passenger) is a standard safety feature. Also standard is the audio system (radio, CD and MP3) with six speakers.
Watch out Savvy, Kelisa, Kenari, MyVi, Swift, etc. etc.
Paul's post has a lot more pictures.
Related News:
- PM challenges Naza to do better than Proton
- Pak Lah: Compete like brothers
- Asean The Initial Market For Naza Sutera
- Naza Sutera To Become Main Rival Of Tata Indicar In South African Market
Tags: Naza Proton Savvy Sutera
Proton Savvy worst Car of the year
Proton Savvy was voted worst Car of the year 2006 on the Autozine homepage. Click link here.
Last year it was the Proton Gen2. I don't know whether this guy Mark Wan has something against Proton.
Tags: Autozine Proton Savvy
Car Brand Names
Another forwarded mail.
AUDI : Another Ugly Deutsche Invention
BMW : Brings Me Women but Broke My Wallet
FIAT : Failure in Italian Automotive Technology
FORD : Fast Only Rolling Downhill
HYUNDAI : Hope You Understand Nothing's Driveable and Inexpensive
SAAB : Shape Appears Ass-Backwards
SUBARU : Screwed Up Beyond All Repair Usually
VOLVO : Very Odd Looking Vehicular Object
PORSCHE : Proof Of Rich Spoiled Children Having Everything
Cheaper Petrol
In case you are not aware, you can still get cheaper petrol.
Where?
Just go to any Caltex petrol station.
Me and my wife have been loyal Catex (a ChevronTexaco company) customers for a long, long time and we don't use any other brand of fuel unless we are in an emegency.
Caltex offers 3 different grades of petrol, namely, Silver, Gold and Platinum. However, I have yet to come across any Caltex petrol station selling the Platinum brand.
I normally put the "Gold" brand which is tagged the normal price (RM1.92). However, I was surprised to see that the "Silver" brand was priced lower (RM1.88). That's 0.04 sen cheaper.
A lot of people have asked me why I only use Caltex. My answer to them is to try out the different fuels and feel the difference themselves.
As the Caltex website says:
Caltex VortexTM fuels (Silver, Gold and Platinum) contain a proprietary, advanced technology additive system that cleans up dirty intake and fuel systems with as little as a single tank, and keeps them clean to ensure engines operate at peak performance and efficiency.BTW, Caltex didn't pay me a sen to write this.
According to their website:
Silver with Techron® is the value offering in the Caltex petrol product slate, aimed at less demanding motorists. It delivers unbeatable cleaning power of vital engine parts.Tags: Caltex Fuel Petrol Vortex
Lotus News
Several websites (here, here) reported that Lotus Cars’ had launched its first light commercial vehicle, an Elise-derived flatbed composite-bodied pickup, named the 'Load Lugga' on April 1st 2006.
Of course it was a prank. Read here.
It was also reported that the Lotus Group lost £7.4m in the year 2005.
The Group’s plans to develop its engineering services business in pursuit of profitability. Read full report here.
Part of the plan involves raising output at the Hethel Lotus Cars plant by assembling niche vehicles for third parties.
Lotus also presented concept vehicle the APX which stands for Aluminium Performance Crossover, at the recent Geneva Show.
The APX is a 7-seater (in reality a 5 + 2 with the two rear seats being occasional) four-wheel drive “Crossover” vehicle.
Engine: A 300 hp supercharged 3 litre (2996 cc, Bore: 88 mm, stroke: 82.1 mm) V6 DOHC engine, mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle.
The body predominantly aluminium manufactured in the form of high-pressure die-cast corner nodes, stampings and extrusions and assembled by various techniques, including adhesive bonding, self-piercing rivets and flow-drill screws for construction – joining techniques that Lotus calls Riv-Bonding
According to their pressrelease:
APX is not just a Lotus Engineering concept, but a feasible prototype close to production; it is not a concept indicating a strategic direction of Lotus Cars;Its latest own-brand model, the Europa S, is to start production in July this year, with a target of 500 units a year.
TAGS: APX Lotus Prank
Alex on the go
Congratulations Alex.
Alex Yoong and the A1 Team Malaysia won their first victory in the A1 Grand Prix of nations in Shanghai Ciruit, China yesterday. He came first in the Sprint race (15 laps) and second in the Feature race (30 laps).
With this victory, Malaysia climbed up the rankings (74 points) to finish fifth behind France, Switzerland, Great Britain and New Zealand.
Alex will also be driving in the prestigious Le Mans Series. He will be teaming up with with former Le Mans 24 Hr. winner, Jan Lammers.
Read more here.
The five-race series starts in Istanbul on April 9.
TAGS: Alex Yoong A1 Le Mans racing
Price Cuts - I am not happy
"Up to RM40,000 cut in prices for imported cars" the NST reports today.
Am I happy?
DO I LOOK HAPPY?
I am furious becuse I had seen this coming. I had predicted that prices would fall. I had argued with my friends who had insisted that the prices would not go down.
I am angry because I was planning to sell my not so old Wira (about to turn 4 this year) and prices of second hand cars have fallen down the roof. Now I am too late.
Just wondering how much my Wira can fetch now on the used car market.
NOTE: Just learnt through Paul Tan's blog that Proton has posted the new prices for its car on their website .
TAGS: policy NAP used cars
The New NAP
The Government of Malaysia has finally unveiled the new National Automotive Policy (NAP). The new tax structure which took effect yesterday, is exected to lower the prices of cars(fully imported and locally assembled).
It was reported that the players in the motor industry were happy with new policy. Read the interview with Aishah Ahmad, President of the Malaysia Automative Association here
Tax cuts include:
- Between 20 and 40% (depending on engine capacity) for Completely-built-up (CBU) passenger cars made in Asean
- Between five and 30%, for completely-built-up (CBU) passenger cars Non-Asean cars.
Two of the major points of the NAP: (from the Star report)
- Doing away with Approved Permits (APs) by Dec 31, 2010
- Establishing only two national manufacturers
Another report says that "the immediate beneficiaries will be national carmakers Proton and Perodua, who lead the industry in terms of production, sales volume and market share".
The two national car makers are expected to benefit from grants and incentives,"to help them boost production and seek more export markets". They would be happy with the ruling that no new manufacturing licences until overcapacity in the domestic automotive sector is resolved
The Government also plans to ban the import of re-conditioned (second-hand) cars by Dec 31, 2010 except for personal usage.
The Downside: Those who had been planning to get an MPV or 4WD will be dissapointed as the the duties on these vehicles were not reduced as much as for passenger cars.
Read what Paul Tan's report here
TAGS: Policy NAP
Proton in China
Here are some recent news reports about Proton's increasing interest in China:
1. Has Proton entered into a partnership with JinHua QingNian, to penetrate the sizable Chinese passenger car market? Chery is another carmaker that is said to be in talks with Proton. Read more here
2. Proton is reportedly to start a car assembly joint venture in China's Guangdong Province later this year, producing 50,000 Proton Wajas in the first year. The report says that the company will face the going tough there. Read more here.
3. Mayban Securities Research says that Proton will be unable to see much earnings contribution in the medium term from its investment in China via a subscription of a 49 per cent stake in Goldstar Heavy Industries Co Ltd. Read more here
New Honda Civic in Malaysia
The new 8th generation Honda Civic was unveiled at the KL Convention Center by Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd,on 9 March 2006.
Labeled the 'Advanced Dynamic Sedan', the new Civic is available in two specifications;
Honda Civic 1.8L
- New 4 cylinder 16V chain driven SOHC i-VTEC engine (after 17 years) with a DBW (drive-by-wire) system.
- Price RM117,800 OTR
Honda Civic 2.0L
- 4 cylinder 16V chain driven DOHC i-VTEC engine
- RM131,800 OTR
Both come:
- a Multi-tiered dashboard display that positions the speedometer, and other frequently checked displays on an upper tier near the driver's line of sight for minimum eye movement while driving, whereas the tachometer, and other gauges are located on the lower tier.
- 5 speed automatic gearbox.
- Dual airbags, active headrest and ABS. However, the Civic 2.0L comes with extra side airbags.
Other Info:
- The new civic doesn't come with a spare tyre.
- Ground clearance is 155mm for 1.8S and 150mm for 2.0S
- Produced at the Malaca plant which only has a capacity for 1000 units/ month.
Others:
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Yasuhide Mizuno:
"Since the 1st generation Civic in 1972, we have been creating new values for the next generations and with this 8th generation Civic, we are reinventing new values that surpass all existing ones in the sedan class. The all new Civic is truly a car designed for everyone and continues to earn the support and respect from Malaysians for its performance, reliability and quality."
Senior Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.'s Asia-Oceania operations and also Asian Honda Motor Co., Ltd.'s President and Chief Executive Officer, Satoshi Toshida (He will take over as Chief Operating Officer of Honda Motor's global power products' operations on 1 April 2006):
"For many of our customers, the Civic defines Honda. When it was first introduced 34 years ago, the Civic quickly became Honda's first mass market automobile sold on a global scale. To date, over 16 million customers in some 160 countries have purchased it. Our goal for each new generation of the Civic is to achieve substantive improvements in all measures of an automobile's value, including driving performance, fuel economy, safety, environmental friendliness and packaging. In so doing, we want to ensure that each new generation of the Civic immediately sets a new, global benchmark for its category".
- Power Products is one of Honda's 3 core businesses and includes solar panel development as well as multi-purpose engines used to power everything from lawn mowers to speedboats.
- 2005 was a record breaking year for Honda Malaysia with the company enjoying a sales record of 27,462 units, an increase of 11% compared to 2004.
- The sales target for 2006 is 30,000 units with the new Civic expected to make up 20% of the sales.
Read what Paul Tan has to say abotu the engine here.
TAGS: Honda Civic
The Name Matters
Just found a reason why the Proton Chancellor might not do well.
According to one of my sources the name when translated into Chinese ( forgot to ask whether in Mandarin or one of the dialects) sound a bit like “will surely die tragically or horribly”.
NOTE: Learnt that other bloggers including the famous Jeff Ooi had written about the issue before. Another related link here.
Knowing from experience how superstitious many of the Chinese in Malaysia are, its no wonder that the car is not that popular with them.
Added 13 March, 06: Proton is planning to export the Chancellor to some overseas markets and I am not sure whether they are going to rename it. I know for sure that they have a policy of having different names of it's various models in different markets. For example, the Proton Wira was known as the Persona (no more on sale in the UK apart from second hand). Similarly, the Waja and the Arena is known as the Impian and Jumbuck respectively in Australia and UK. Similarly . Hope they don't face the same problem that the Tata did with the Cliffrider.
RELATED POST: Proton Chancellor Launched
TAGS: Proton
Proton out of the Red
Proton Holdings Bhd showed profits in its third quarter of its financial year ending Dec 31, 2005.
The company saw an all time high record car sales of 22,971 units in october and a total52,418 cars old during the October-December quarter
The net profit of RM86.51mil was posted compared to loss of RM166.7mil for the first half of the year.
Other announcements by Managing director Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohd Tahir:
- A strategic tie-up with a China carmaker soon according to .
- Key areas of concern identified, namely, issues on quality, product diversity, cost control, vendor development, manufacturing efficiency and sales and marketing.''
- Better collaboration between Edaran Otomobil Nasional Bhd and Proton Edar in the future.
TAGS: Proton
Hidden Costs
Some people don't realise that buying a car entails numerous other costs which they might not have taken into consideration. It's much more than just the monthly loan repayments (NOTE: I am talking of ordinary blokes out there like me, who earn a living working for other people or for the Govt.).
I recently had to service my car air conditioning because it wasn't as cold as before. In fact it was literally blowing hot air in my face. The cost: RM90/ for the R134a compressor oil and gas.
Other things that happen are accidents. Even if you are careful, others might bang into you and that is exactly what happened to me. Read here. The repair job, plus a new bumper and repainting made me poorer by RM400/. Read about it here.
I also decided to change all my four tyres as I noticed that they were quite bald and got myself the cheapest in the market, Sime Monza HR7. It cost me RM95/ per tyre. However, they gave me a discout of RM30/ for trading in the old tyres. Where in the World do any tyre shop allow you to trade in your old tyres? Only in Kedah.
Those who look down on the Sime brand of tyres. Let me tell you something. Continental Sime Tyre Sdn Bhd, which makes Sime tyres, is a Malaysian joint-venture company between Continental AG of Hanover, Germany (51%) and Sime Darby Berhad, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (49%). The JV agreement was signed on February 26, 2003.
It has two tyre manufacturing companies: DMIB Berhad with its factory located in Petaling Jaya, and Sime Tyres International Sdn Bhd located in Alor Setar. Marketing and sales is carried out through Continental Sime Tyre Marketing Sdn Bhd.
Other brands made by the company are: Continental, Dunlop, Barum, Sime Tyres and Simex. My friend working with the company confided that all the tyres are made in the same factories using the same rubber compund and same technology. The only difference are the treads.
Now back to my story, the four new tyres plus the alignment cost me a total of RM390/.
Total cost on my car this month alone not counting the petrol and the monthly loan repayment comes to RM880/. Thank God! I don't drive a BMW or a Merc.
Related links:
- Continental Sime Tyres
TAGS: Proton Car maintenance Continental Sime Tyres
Congrats Alex
Wrote this much earlier but forgot to post it up.
At the A1 Grand Prix series (the eighth round ) in Sentul, Indonesia, on the 12 of this monht, Alex Yoong drove a great race coming in second place podium spot in the dramatic Feature race and a fourth place finish in the Sprint race.
It us the best results for A1 Team Malaysia and the first podium finsh for Alex Yoong.
The teams are now in Monterrey, Mexico for the A1 Grand Prix of Nations (24 – 26 February).
Cheering for Alex and the A1 Team Malaysia.
MOU between Mitsubishi and Proton
According to a press release on Mitsubishi's website, they have signed a memorandum of understanding with Proton Holdings Berhad for wider areas of corporation between the two companies.
This event was witnessed by Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz, Minister of International Trade and Industry.
The agreement includes cooperation in the following areas:
· Product development of new Proton vehicles
· Supply of components between Proton and Mitsubishi
· Technical support for production engineering and quality control
· Optimization of Proton's manufacturing facilities
Read the full press release here.
TAGS: Proton Mitsubishi
Record vehicle Sales
Vehicle sales surged 13% to an all-time record high of 551,045 units last year as compared to 487,605 units in 2004.
Perodua's share of the total passenger car market increased (almost 3%) while on the other hand, Proton lost almost 3% as compared to 2004.
Overall, the share of non-national cars increased marginally to 22% of the total car industry from 21% previously.
Read related news here and here
TAGS: Proton Perodua Malaysia
Mitsubishi and Proton News
Different reporting styles can send different signals to the readers.
According to the Wall Street Journal yesterday, Mitsubishi Motor Corp ruled out any investment in Proton Holdings Bhd.
Some of you may recall that Mitsubishi sold its entire 7.93 % stake in Proton in 2004. However it still supplies parts to Proton.
Mitsubishi Motor president Osamu Masuko was reported as saying that they would to cooperate in some areas, "But such cooperation would not extend into a 'capital alliance'.
Today I read in the NST that: "Mitsubishi open to tech alliance with Proton."
Interesting!
TAGS: Proton Mitsubishi
New Minicar From Mitsubishi
This is the new "i" minicar model launched by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today throughout Japan. 
Using a newly developed platform, the new "i" series includes 2WD and 4WD models and comes in a range of 8 body colors. A ninth color 'Pearl White' will also be available in March.
According to their press release, the car was developed as "an innovative Premium Small Car that successfully overcomes the tradeoffs traditionally associated with the category: design and comfortable interior space; comfortable interior space and impact safety".
The "i" is powered by a 3-cylinder MIVEC*1 turbocharged engine that uses an aluminum cylinder block.
TAGS: Mitsubishi mini car new model
VW Says No
I am sure all of you have heard the shocking news that Volkswagen AG has abandoned plans plans to form an alliance with Proton Holding Bhd. Quite contrary to what we had been led to believe (Read this post).
Volkswagen group CEO Bernd Pischetsrieder was quoted as telling analysts at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 11 January that the company had "specific ideas" about its relationship with Proton, "Unfortunately the Malaysian government, Khazanah and Proton had different ideas. Therefore what we wanted in the cooperation with Proton will not materialise".
However, he added that VW will consider "a few isolated projects ... to support Proton."
Following that news, Proton's share price went on a downtrend, falling almost 20%. As of today (2 pm) Proton was still the top loser on the KLSE with price falling 70 sen to RM5.65.
TAGS: Proton Volkswagen
VW Drops Proton Controlling Share Demand
Proton Holdings Bhd's share prices are up because investors see an impending tie-up with Volkswagen AG. This was the result of the news that Volkswagen AG had dropped its insistence on taking a controlling stake in the Malaysian car company.
Many analysts believe that VW’s about turn is due to its problems including falling market share, sales slump and its numerous boardroom battles.
Read the Star’s report
I would like one.
Happy New Year
Wishing all visitors to my Auto blog a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Early this year, I started this seperate blog just dedicated to Malaysian automotive industry news as well as other developments in the auto industry early this year and am quite happy with the response it has received.
This year was quite eventful for the auto industry with the AP issue dominating the headlines.
Read posts: The AP Issue, AP Issue Still Hot and Policy on AP from MITI.
This year also saw launches fo new car models.Most notable among these was the Perodua Myvi and the Proton Savvy. Each had its own supporters and detractors and generated a lot of debates on which one is better. Read my posts: Myvi Sets the Standard and Myvi Vs Savvy.
And did you know that there were 5 Malaysian car manufacturers and not two. In case you don't believe me, read this post: Another Malaysian Car.
Hope this new year is an eventful one for the new year.
I hope to see new innovations, beter designs, better safety features and more environmentally friendly cars on Malaysian roads.
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