Wednesday, July 20, 2011

BMW and Audi show off DTM challengers








The German Touring Car Championship is known as the most advanced tin-top series in the world and BMW decided to rejoin the fray after an absence of nearly 20 years.
The Munich carmaker took the wraps off their M3 DTM concept car last week and it was met almost immediately by Audi and their concept A5 DTM.
Andy Priaulx and Augusto Farfus was announced as the drivers for BMW’s first assault on the DTM in the 2012 season.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Mail Motor TV: Video of Proton launching new central logistics centre

New system designed to improve initial customer satisfaction with standardised pre-delivery inspection

In a bid to further improve initial customer satisfaction and ensure standardised quality of cars delivered to customers, Proton launched their centralized vehicle logistics and pre-delivery inspection system at Sijangkang and Tanjung Malim.

Former Prime Minister and Proton advisor, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad officiated the launch and visited the facilities afterwards.

VIDEO: Perodua Eco Challenge update: USM



Spaceframe route for USM

Twice champion setting conservative target after rule change

The all-new rules of the 2011 Perodua Eco Challenge is giving even the best teams a big headache but it seems they are relishing the extra work required to complete the project.

Twice champion of the Perodua Eco Challenge, automatic transmission category, Universiti Sains Malaysia is busy preparing the final design and specifications of their machine when we visited them last week.

Professor Horizon Gitano- Briggs said that the new rules require a lot more time to fulfill but they are making so with the available schedule and pressing ahead with the design at hand. VIDEO after the jump.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Fwd: Event Photos: Launch of the New Honda Wave Dash




PETRONAS to be new team sponsor for Mercedes-Benz in DTM series



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> Mercedes-Benz will be using high-performance Syntium engine oils supplied by PETRONAS during the 2011 DTM campaign
> The PETRONAS logo will feature on the racing overalls and helmets worn by all Mercedes-Benz DTM drivers and on the bodywork of all DTM AMG Mercedes C-Class cars
> The 2011 DTM season commences on 1st May in Hockenheim
>
>
>
> Stuttgart - Mercedes-Benz today announced an extension of its motorsport partnership with PETRONAS from Formula One to the German Touring Car Masters (DTM). Already title sponsor of the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One team, the Malaysian national oil and gas corporation will now have a prominent profile in DTM as team sponsor of Mercedes-Benz when the new season begins on 1st May in Hockenheim.
>
>
> All nine Mercedes-Benz DTM drivers will race this season with the PETRONAS logo on their racing overalls and helmets, as well as on their AMG Mercedes C-Class cars. The Mercedes-Benz Formula 3 partner teams Mücke Motorsport and Prema Powerteam will likewise feature PETRONAS branding on their Dallara Mercedes Formula 3 racing cars.
>
>
> The partnership between PETRONAS and Mercedes-Benz now extends from discovering and nurturing young talent in Formula 3 to the senior categories of DTM and Formula One. In all three race series, Mercedes-Benz relies on high-performance motor oil and lubricants supplied by PETRONAS under the Syntium brand name.
>
>
> As is the case for Formula One, PETRONAS motor oils have been specially formulated to meet the unique demands of DTM racing. With piston velocities of over 35m/s and valve pressures of over 9,000kg/cm², DTM engines are subject to immense physical forces. It is only when all moving parts, operating at gap sizes of a few micrometres, are optimally lubricated for these extreme conditions that the engine can deliver sustained peak performance. The specially formulated Syntium motor oil with its integrated additives ensures that the engine is able to perform consistently well throughout the season.
>
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> PETRONAS has been involved in motor racing since 1988, becoming a Formula One team sponsor in 1995. When the Malaysian Grand Prix made its debut at the Sepang International Circuit in 1999, PETRONAS secured the F1 Grand Prix title sponsorship rights to the event. Since the start of the 2010 season, PETRONAS has been title sponsor of the Silver Arrows team - MERCEDES GP PETRONAS - with its driver pairing of Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher.
>
>
> Vice-President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, Norbert Haug:
> "We are delighted to welcome PETRONAS as our new DTM partner. Our existing partnership in Formula One is characterised by a spirit of constructive cooperation, coupled with the ongoing desire to improve performance. The fact that PETRONAS has extended its involvement from Formula One, with our Silver Arrows team, to the DTM emphasises the growing importance of this series. Just as in Formula One, the research and development work done by our partners at PETRONAS makes an invaluable contribution to the competitiveness of our cars."
>
>
> General Manager, PETRONAS Motorsports, Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz:
> "We are extremely proud to extend our partnership with Mercedes-Benz. Building on our partnership in Formula One, this new relationship takes us to yet another level with our involvement in arguably the most competitive touring car series, the DTM, as well as the important single-seater category, the Formula 3 Euro Series. More importantly, this is a significant step forward for PETRONAS as we continue to pursue our commercial business objectives particularly in growing our lubricant businesses and extending our technical involvement globally."
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The Monster 1100EVO the Ultimate Monster: redefined, one of a kind and as bang up to date as ever


Performance, style, practicality and safety, four words that embody the essence of the Monster 1100EVO.

As a result of its Desmodue Evoluzione engine, the Monster 1100EVO is the first twin-valve Ducati engine to achieve 100 hp. And that's not all, the 1100EVO is proof of Ducati's firm commitment to motorcycling safety.

The Monster 1100EVO comes, as standard, with the Ducati Safety Pack, which includes ABS and Ducati Traction Control (DTC): a concentrate of electronics that improves control and enhances safety whatever the situation.

With a new look to boot, the 1100EVO oozes personality like no other. Featuring a new exhaust system, which gives the bike an even feistier look, as well as new ergonomics, with a redesigned seat and 20 mm higher handlebars, riding pleasure is cranked up to the max.

Symbolic of a lifestyle like no other, the Monster 1100EVO is pure naked essence.
 

Oil price update


PRICES
Futures Markets Snapshots
last
Chg.
Crude Oil
ICE Brent ($/bbl)
124.50
-0.52
&nbsp
Nymex Lt. Sweet
112.47
-0.39
&nbsp
DME Oman
118.80
-0.35
Products
RBOB ($/gal.)
3.43
0.00
&nbsp
Heating Oil
3.23
0.00
&nbsp
ICE Gas Oil ($/ton)
1,026.25
-12.00
Natural Gas
Nymex HH ($/MMBtu)
4.57
0.00
&nbsp
ICE UK NBP (p/therm)
57.89
+0.16
Spot Markets Snapshots
last
Chg.
Crude Oil
Opec Basket ($/bbl)
119.34
+0.38
Natural Gas
New York
4.64
0.00
*($/MMBtu)
Henry, LA
4.39
+0.04
&nbsp
Katy, Texas
4.36
+0.02
&nbsp
AECO, Canada
3.90
+0.05
 
 
 

Fwd: Scottish ace Shedden speeds to BTCC pole position at Thruxton


 
  SCOTTISH ACE SHEDDEN SPEEDS
TO POLE POSITION AT THRUXTON
Gordon Shedden has qualified on pole position for tomorrow's Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship round at the high speed Thruxton circuit in Hampshire.
 
Scotsman Shedden (pictured) set a best time of 1m17.004s to secure his second consecutive pole at Thruxton and also the third in a row this year for the Honda Racing Team. As a result, he will start at the front when the grid lines up for the first of tomorrow's three races – being shown live on the ITV4 and ITV4 HD channels.

Rising star Andrew Jordan was second fastest in his Pirtek Racing Vauxhall Vectra, just 0.062s behind. Third was Shedden's team-mate Matt Neal, currently second in the standings, but championship leader James Nash could only manage the tenth fastest time in his 888 Racing with Collins Contractors Vectra that is carrying the maximum success ballast of 45kgs.

Fife racer Shedden, currently seventh in the standings, said: "I'm really pleased with that performance as I needed to give it everything considering how tight it is at the top. The high speeds here always make tyre wear a real concern over a race distance, but from the runs we did this morning in practice our tyres looked mint so I think we're in good shape for tomorrow as well."

Lichfield youngster Jordan, fourth in the table after his win at Donington Park a fortnight ago, commented: "I'm very happy with that. I've got a little bit of success ballast in my car, plus it was the first time we'd put a qualifying set-up on the car because we'd concentrated only on race performance in practice. After all it's tomorrow when the points are scored and this has always been a happy hunting ground for the Vectra."
 
Nash, meanwhile, knows he needs to make up places tomorrow if he's to prevent the likes of Neal dislodging him from the championship lead. He added: "I made a mess of what would have been my best lap, but even if I'd made it count it might have only gained me a few places. On saying that, in race trim I think we'll be quite a bit stronger than some of those starting in front of us."
 
The top three qualified more than half a second clear of the rest of the field. Completing the top six were Tom Chilton's Team Aon Ford Focus, reigning Champion Jason Plato's Silverline Chevrolet Cruze, the highest placed of the normally aspirated runners, and Tom Onslow-Cole in his AmD Milltek Racing.com VW Golf – by far the car's best qualifying performance to date.

Local stars Robert Collard and Nick Foster, both from Hook, qualified 14th and 17th fastest in their WSR BMWs but some are tipping their cars to come on strong as tomorrow's three races progress.

All three races will be shown live tomorrow on the ITV4 and ITV4 HD television channels as well as www.itv.com during a seven-hour broadcast from 11.00am-6.00pm.
 
Leading BTCC qualifying times, Thruxton, Sat 30 Apr (provisional):
1. Gordon Shedden (GBR), Honda Racing Team/Honda Civic, 1m17.004s (110.14mph)
2. Andrew Jordan (GBR), Pirtek Racing/Vauxhall Vectra, +0.062s
3. Matt Neal (GBR), Honda Racing Team/Honda Civic, +0.213s
4. Tom Chilton (GBR), Team Aon/Ford Focus, +0.756s
5. Jason Plato (GBR), Silverline Chevrolet/Chevrolet Cruze, +0.962s
6. Tom Onslow-Cole (GBR), AmD Milltek Racing.com/VW Golf, +1.118s
7. Jeff Smith (GBR), Pirtek Racing/Vauxhall Vectra, +1.245s
8. Mat Jackson (GBR), Airwaves Racing/Ford Focus, +1.321s
9. Tom Boardman (GBR), Special Tuning Racing/SEAT Leon, +1.323s
10. James Nash (GBR), 888 Racing with Collins Contractors/Vauxhall Vectra, +1.337s
 
Picturedesks: photo shows Gordon Shedden's Honda Civic at speed en route to BTCC pole position at Thruxton. For a hi-res, copyright-free version of the image above click here.

Bautista completes Portuguese Grand Prix to seal a remarkable comeback

Álvaro Bautista gave another courageous performance on his Rizla Suzuki GSV-R at Estoril today to not only finish the Portuguese Grand Prix, but to also score points and show that he had come to race and not just finish the 28-laps.

Bautista got a great start from 15th on the grid and by the end of the first lap had moved into 12th place, but he was forced to take avoiding action on the second lap as another rider fell in front of him. Karel Abraham crashed his Ducati and although Bautista tried to take a different line to miss him, the Suzuki star was forced out wide and into the gravel. Bautista stayed on-board and re-joined the race, but had lost valuable time and was too far behind the pack to continue his assault. As the race wore on Bautista produced consistent laps that would have seen him compete in the top-10, but because of the earlier incident he was forced to ride a lonely race with only the clock to compete against and his determination to finish the race. He eventually crossed the line in 13th place and, although he was suffering from the injury he sustained at Qatar, he was very pleased to finish his first Grand Prix of 2011.

Overnight rain again made this morning's warm-up quite difficult, but fortunately the storm clouds stayed away from the race and conditions improved in time for the start. Today's event was watched by just over 40,000 people at trackside and they saw Spaniard Dani Pedrosa on a Honda take his first victory of the season, with current championship leader Jorge Lorenzo second.

Rizla Suzuki and Bautista will now stay at Estoril for a day of testing, where they will be joined by Factory test rider Nobuatsu Aoki. The team will next be in race action at the historical Le Mans circuit in France on Sunday 15th May, where Bautista will certainly be looking to improve on this weekend's performance as his healing process continues and his race fitness returns.

Álvaro Bautista:

"I have some mixed emotions today. I am happy because I made the target of finishing the race, but after a decent start and getting in to a good position early on, I am really disappointed that I had to run off the track because Abraham crashed in front of me. I tried to take a different line, but I had to go into the gravel and I lost too much time from the main group. I did the rest of the race alone and ok, we finished, but I would have liked to have battled with other riders. I think it was possible to fight with Toni, Loris and Randy today - or maybe even better! The first target was to finish the race, so we have to be happy about that and now I have 14 days to improve the strength and power in my leg and go to Le Mans in a much better condition than I came here. My body and my mind are now more prepared for racing, so I am really looking forward to the next race.

"I want to say a big thank-you to all the team and to everyone that supported me during the last month. If I can make this effort to be here and finish this race, part of what I did was because all of them believed in me all the time. I also want to say a very Happy Mother's Day to all the Mums in Spain, especially my own!"

Paul Denning – Team Manager:

"Today is the same very positive story as the rest of the weekend. For Álvaro to complete race distance and at a far more competitive pace than we could have expected when we were in the hospital in Qatar six weeks ago, is just incredible! The race itself turned into a fitness test after he ran off the track because of Abraham's crash, but finally we also got a bit of luck as Álvaro was able to avoid all the carnage around him in the first lap as several other riders crashed.

"On behalf of the whole team, I'd like to thank everybody involved in Álvaro's recovery, both in Qatar and Spain. But the main plaudits have to go to Álvaro himself – his commitment to get back as quickly as he has done has been inspirational. Le Mans is the next step and when we arrive in Catalunya we will be pushing to the maximum again!"

bwin Grande Premio de Portugal Race Classification:

1. Dani Pedrosa (Honda) 45'51.483: 2. Jorge Lorenzo (Yamaha) +3.051: 3. Casey Stoner (Honda) +7.658: 4. Andrea Dovizioso (Honda) +16.530: 5. Valentino Rossi (Ducati) +16.555: 13. ÁLVARO BAUTISTA (RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP) +1'24.370:

World Championship Classification:

1. Lorenzo 65: 2. Pedrosa 61: 3. Stoner 41: 4. Rossi 31: 5. Nicky Hayden (Ducati) 30: 18. ÁLVARO BAUTISTA (RIZLA SUZUKI MOTOGP) 3:

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Thursday, April 28, 2011

Bridgestone to provide asymmetric rear slicks at Portugal MotoGP



The Portuguese Grand Prix represents the third round of the MotoGP season this year, with the event moved to 1 May from its usual October slot following heavy rain in 2010’s GP.

With clear skies, Bridgetsone will be able to make use of its asymmetric rear slick tyres, which have been selected because of the imbalanced demands of the circuit.

There are nine right-handed corners and only four lefts, and generally the right-handers are faster and generate higher loads, resulting in markedly higher tyre temperatures in the right shoulders of the tyres, especially the rears, as director of Motorsport Tyre Development Hirohide Hamashima explained.

Continental celebrates 140 years



  • The tire and rubber specialist from Hanover has grown to be a leading international automotive supplier
  • With a current workforce of roughly 155,000, Continental is present in all key markets
  • Continental locations worldwide celebrate with employees and customers

The international automotive supplier Continental celebrates its 140th anniversary this year: Since its founding in 1871, the Hanover, Germany-based company has continued to grow. A specialist solely for tires and rubber products at the beginning, it is now a leading global automotive supplier. 
"Our customers and business partners profit from our years-long experience, our innovative prowess, our increasingly international orientation and our broadly based product portfolio in different sectors of business," said Dr. Elmar Degenhart, chairman of the Executive Board of Continental AG. 

"We are at your side as a competent and reliable partner. At the same time we are a crucial force in shaping today's mega-trends in the automotive industry – safety, information, the environment and affordable vehicles." The 193 Continental locations worldwide plan individual anniversary celebrations for employees and customers.

On October 8, 1871, nine Hanover-based bankers and industrialists founded Continental as a joint stock company under the name "Continental-Caoutchouc & Gutta-Percha Compagnie". 

The common stock at the time – around 300,000 thalers – corresponded to a present-day purchasing power equivalent of approximately 6.3 million euros. At the parent plant in Hanover, an initial workforce of around 200 employees made, among other things, soft rubber products – hot water bottles, toy dolls and rubberized fabrics – as well as solid tires for carriages and bicycles. 

Sales in the 1880s amounted to roughly 3.3 million marks. In today’s money, that equals a purchasing power of about 21.5 million euros. By way of comparison, the Continental Corporation reported worldwide sales of 26 billion euros in 2010.


At the end of the 1920s, key companies in the German rubber industry merged to form "Continental Gummi-Werke AG". The new company confined its production activities more or less to Germany. 

But it exported more and more of what it made. It was not until the 1980s, however, that the company began to rigorously break into international markets. ”In acquiring the European tire operations of the American company Uniroyal Inc., taking over the North American tire manufacturer General Tire, and purchasing majority holdings in the Portuguese company Mabor and the Czech tiremaker Barum, Continental carried its international activities even beyond Europe's borders," noted Degenhart. 

Personnel figures document this development: Whereas the 1990 workforce of approximately 51,000 employees was still split up more or less evenly between Germany and the rest of the world, Continental employs over two thirds of its current workforce of roughly 155,000 outside of Germany.

At the end of the 1990s, the Continental Corporation revamped its strategy. This began in 1998 with the purchase of the ITT Industries automotive brake & chassis operations (Teves). 

In 2001 Continental acquired the international electronics specialist Temic from Daimler. In doing so, Continental, as a tire and rubber specialist, gave itself a second mainstay in the automotive supplies business. This made the company more immune to business ups and down. The acquisition of Motorola’s automotive electronics business expanded Continental's activities in telematics, and elsewhere. 

"With the biggest acquisition to date in the company's history – the takeover of Siemens VDO Automotive AG – Continental advanced to the top league of automotive suppliers globally. In this way, we have simultaneously strengthened our market positions in Europe, North America and Asia”, explains Degenhart.

From the very beginning, Continental disposed of excellent technological competence. In 1904 Continental became the first company anywhere in the world to develop car tires with tread patterns. 

Then in 1908 it was also the first with removable rims for touring cars. In 1943 it started producing tubeless tires, the first German company to do so. With its Schwingmetall range of special rubber-to-metal bonded products, launched in 1932, Continental has long provided for vibration- and noise-damping engine suspension. 

To this day, Continental actively promotes the development of key technologies and the process of getting them ready for production. In 1998, Continental introduced Electronic Stability Control (ESC) into series production as a pioneering, active safety system. 


This year, Continental’s ESC system will enter its fourth generation of production in the form of the 
MK 100®. In Germany alone, more than 80 percent of all new vehicles approved are now equipped with ESC systems from various manufacturers. 
As far back as 1997, the Continental portfolio already contained hybrid drive technology. In 2009, as first manufacturer anywhere in the world to do so, Continental commenced series production of lithium-ion batteries for use in hybrid vehicles. 

The company received the "Idea of the Year 2011" award for its eco-friendly printing blankets. 70 percent less CO2 is emitted in the manufacture of these blankets than is the case in conventional printing blanket production. 

The host of initial patents filed each year documents Continental's innovative prowess. In 2011 the company's various groups and divisions will very likely file around 1,100 patent applications.

Around 6,500 employees currently work at the company's parent location in Hanover. In ad-dition to corporate headquarters, the capital city of the German federal state of Lower Saxony is likewise home above all to the three rubber divisions – Passenger and Light Truck (PLT) Tires, Commercial Vehicle (CV) Tires and ContiTech – with administration, R&D and production facilities. 


The company develops and tests tires in Hanover. There are also pro-duction facilities there for suspension components like Schwingmetall vibration- and noise-damping engine mounts, drive components such as V-belts, timing belts and V-ribbed belts, and air springs, electronic air spring systems and air spring modules.

With sales of €26 billion in 2010, Continental is among the leading automotive suppliers worldwide. As a supplier of brake systems, systems and components for powertrains and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers, Continental contributes to enhanced driving safety and global climate protection. Continental is also an expert partner in networked automobile communication. Continental currently has approximately 155,000 employees in 
45 countries.


YET TO BE LAUNCHED 125CC NAZA BIKE WILL BE PREVIEWED AT LAMAN BERINGIN, ISTANA BUDAYA


“Kapcai” enthusiasts will have a chance to preview the latest NAZA BIKE, a 125cc model even before its officially launched at the Istana Budaya’s courtyard, Laman Beringin.


This soon to be launched model is being showcased exclusively to visitors and fans of the legendary Malaysian rock group WINGS, who are staging a special LIVE concert with the National Symphony Orchestra from Friday 29 April till 2 May 2011.

Pricing details after the jump




Throughout this entire duration the yet to be launched 125cc NAZA BIKE will be on display and priced is said to be under RM4,000 (Below Ringgit Four Thousand).

Those fans heading for the KONSERT WINGS OPERA HIDUP - A SPECIAL NIGHT WITH HARLEY DAVIDSON, will be the first to get an up close and personal feel of the bike, which will be part of the NAZA World Carnival held at the Istana Budaya compound.

In fact during the carnival, several “Motor Cantik” competitions will be organized for enthusiasts. There will be a category for Blader/GTR (6pm, Friday, 29 Apri), Harley (4pm Saturday, 30 April), Open category for Scooter (11am Sunday, 1 May, all brands are invited to participate), Open category for Kapchai (11am Monday, 2 May, all brands are invited to participate) and Vespa (2pm Monday, 2 May). Those who enter the “Motor Cantik” competition for a mere RM20 participation fee stand to win amazing prizes! The participants for “Motor Cantik” for all categories will also receive a free T-Shirt, compliments of NAZA World.



Thursday, April 21, 2011

NY Motor Show: Lotus New Era takes on the Big Apple



  • US debut for the Evora S and IPS
  • IndyCar Driver EJ Viso and Team Principal Jimmy Vasser




Lotus Advisory Council Member and automotive legend Bob Lutz opened the press conference for Group Lotus today (April 21st) at the New York Auto Show. Whilst Bob spoke about the future for Lotus, the focus remained firmly on the here and now and this was perfectly demonstrated by the American debut of the stunning new Evora S and the Evora IPS (Intelligent Precision Shift) – both models showcase the versatility of the multi-award winning Evora.



Bob Lutz was joined by Lotus’ Director of Sales, Guillaume Chabin who gave an overview on the current Lotus line-up followed by Director of Motorsport Claudio Berro and Lotus KVRT Team Principal Jimmy Vasser and IndyCar driver EJ Viso.


But for Lotus it’s the cars that are always the stars and alongside the famous faces on the stand sat the limited edition RGB Exige and a member of the future Lotus family, the iconic Esprit, arguably the most eagerly anticipated of the new Lotus range.


Lotus will be at the New York Auto Show until May 1st so fans of the unique British automotive manufacturer have a few days to get up close to a selection of some of the most enjoyable, high-performance, lightweight sportscars on the market.

And now some more details about those all important stars of the show……

About the Evora S: Like the standard Evora, the Evora S has a 3.5 litre V6 engine and produces seamless performance. The supercharged Evora S has 350 PS (345 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lbft) of torque, courtesy of a supercharger which gives acceleration of 4.8 seconds to 100 km/h (4.6 seconds to 60 mph) and a maximum speed of 277 km/h (172 mph).

The Evora S comes with a sport pack as standard featuring a ‘sport’ button which allows the driver to control throttle response and activate the exhaust by-pass valve*. The sport button also raises the instantaneous rev limit and changes the dynamic stability control settings resulting in a total experience change. The external emotion of the Evora S has been improved with a completely new active exhaust which means that at the push of a button the car sounds just as dramatic as it feels.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “It’s the next level of Evora experience. The Evora S communicates even more with you, with extra power and control the car responds even more to your direction. It’s an instinctual car, the experience is pure.”

About the Evora IPS: The IPS version of the Evora allows the driver to switch between manual paddle shift and automatic drive modes. The driver also has the option of selecting ‘sport’ mode which showcases the Lotus sport driving experience allowing the driver to really feel each gear shift and be in complete control of the transmission.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “The Evora IPS is set to broaden the appeal of the Evora and reach out to a slightly different market. We expect it will be popular with established automatic locations such as Asia, the Middle East and the US. It’s been a long time since Lotus created an automatic and we’ve spent a great deal of time refining this one to make sure that it perfectly complements the Evora drive experience.”

About the RGB Exige: The limited edition RGB Exige also featured on the stand, named in honour of one of Lotus’ most prominent old boys, former Director of Vehicle Engineering Roger George Becker. In celebration of his 44 years of service, which included doubling for Roger Moore’s James Bond in The Spy Who Loved Me, Lotus created a special edition of the Exige and Elise which both benefit from some Becker-inspired modifications. For the technically minded out there, the RGB Exige uses the range topping 260 PS (257 hp) supercharged and an intercooled 1.8l engine which allows this lightweight sportscar a 0-60 mp/h in around four seconds and an impressive aerodynamic downforce figure of 92.5 lbs (42 kg) at 100 mph (160 km/h).

The Exige RGB is available in four colours, Aspen White, Starlight Black, Solar Yellow & Carbon Grey and each one is identified by a numbered interior plaque, Roger Becker’s signature on the side of the bodywork and special monochrome Lotus nose badge.

About the Esprit: The new Esprit will be powered by a 5.0 litre V8 pressure charged engine delivering up to 620 PS. The Esprit retains exceptional performance through it’s unique lightweight design making it the ultimate expression of Lotus supercar ownership. It is the supercar that will redefine ride and handling, performance, comfort and exclusivity.

The styling of the Esprit echos the performance with strong lines throughout the sleek low body. The symmetry through the mass and proportion of the Esprit give it an intense look, it’s the perfect example of the new Lotus DNA in action.

Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar says: “Not only does the Esprit look incredible but it will have the performance to match. We’ve stuck to the Lotus core values of performance through lightweight and teamed them with future technology and exceptional engineering to ensure that the Esprit will be the leader of the pack. The design is aggressive, you have to see it to appreciate how low and wide the proportions are but it still retains a level of dignity, of class and most of all exclusivity. I’m very proud of this car.”

OIL PRICE WATCH: Crude remains strong above USD120


PRICES
Futures Markets SnapshotslastChg.
Crude OilICE Brent ($/bbl)124.40+0.55
&nbspNymex Lt. Sweet112.11+0.66
&nbspDME Oman118.05+2.30
ProductsRBOB ($/gal.)3.29+0.01
&nbspHeating Oil3.23+0.01
&nbspICE Gas Oil ($/ton)1,026.50+6.00
Natural GasNymex HH ($/MMBtu)4.32+0.01
&nbspICE UK NBP (p/therm)58.33+0.15
Spot Markets SnapshotslastChg.
Crude OilOpec Basket ($/bbl)116.00-1.37
Natural GasNew York4.70+0.15
*($/MMBtu)Henry, LA4.33+0.12
&nbspKaty, Texas4.33+0.15
&nbspAECO, Canada3.69+0.01

Buy a Nissan Teana, fly to Paris

ETCM’s Executive Director, Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng
handing over the tickets to winner, San Mun Sow

Car companies make all sorts of offer and organise all manners of competition to entice buyers and Edaran Tan Chong Motor decided that they would fly one lucky Nissan Teana buyer and a companion to Paris in an Airbus A380, Business Class.

Lucky winner was San Mun Sow who gets to stay for three nights at a five-star hotel in the city of love.


“I rarely win any contest or lucky draw previously so I don’t expect to win this trip when they informed me about the contest when I bought my Nissan Teana 2.5L during the event.” 
“I’m more excited about flying on the A380 Business Class than visiting Paris!” said Mr. San, adding that he will be enjoying the trip with his wife and look forward to a candle light dinner on a cruise in the city of lights. 

Who wouldn't?

Full Press release after the jump




PRESS RELEASE


A delighted businessman, Mr. San Mun Sow was presented with a package to fly on the A380 Business Class to Paris, France which included a three-nights stay at a five-star hotel for two, by winning the lucky draw of “Win a Trip to Paris on A380” organised by Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM). This contest was held last year for Nissan customers who were exclusively invited to the “Nissan Teana VIP Preview Event.”
Mr. San, from Petaling Jaya said, “I rarely win any contest or lucky draw previously so I don’t expect to win this trip when they informed me about the contest when I bought my Nissan Teana 2.5L during the event.”
“I’m more excited about flying on the A380 Business Class than visiting Paris!” said Mr. San, adding that he will be enjoying the trip with his wife and look forward to a candle light dinner on a cruise in the city of lights.
Also present at the prize presentation ceremony was  ETCM’s Executive Director, Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng who said, “This “Win a Trip to Paris on A380” lucky draw is an appreciation to our valued Nissan customers for their support throughout the years.”
“There will be more exciting activities to be carried out in this year for our valued Nissan fans in Malaysia,” he added.
Mr. San also shared his experience of driving in his new Nissan Teana 2.5L V6, “My whole family enjoyed riding in this car as we love the luxury interior design that is very comfortable.”
“I simply love the Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) which offered me a smoother driving experience and excellent fuel consumption,” he added.
Nissan Teana reflects Nissan/ETCM’s commitment to constantly offer high quality products that maximize the pleasure of driving and the pride of owning a Nissan. The all-new Nissan Teana is available in 3 variants - the 2.0L X-CVT and 2.5L V6 that are assembled in Tan Chong Motor’s state-of-the-art Serendah Plant, and the Teana 3.5L V6 that is fully imported from Japan.
With its modern styling, impressive ride comfort and thoughtful appointments, Nissan Teana is designed and engineered to provide lasting value in a luxury sedan reflecting a new dimension of hospitality, superb comfort and quiet, roomy interior.

VIDEO: Goodyear launches 'Women With Drive' in Malaysia

L-R, Bernie Chan, Azrina Jane, Sasha Rowena, Ivy Peng(Goodyear Sales_ Director),
Melinda Ngew (CEO, AAM), Sarimah Ibrahim and Xandria_ Ooi

Women drivers tend to get a lot of bad Press because many people think they are not as good as men on the road. Tyre giant Goodyear is on a mission to change that perception.

Ivy Peng
They launched a unique programme called 'Women with Drive' which is a series of free community service workshops conducted by Goodyear Autocare experts to educate women drivers on vehicle maintenance and road safety.

Goodyear sales director, Ivy Peng says this is a good way to help women drivers boost their self confidence with more knowledge and skills.

It is always good to learn more skills and pick up new knowledge so we hope Goodyear will achieve their goals with this programme.






Video and full Press release and details after the jump







PRESS RELEASE

For the first time in Malaysia, Goodyear together with Automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM) launched their first women-centric programme called “Women with Drive”, targeted to women.

The "Women with Drive" programme is a free community service workshop for women, conducted by Goodyear Autocare experts to educate female motorists on vehicle maintenance and on road safety. The programme also aims to empower women with the confidence and knowledge of basic auto care. This will help them to make important decisions about their cars and their driving styles.

According to Ivy Peng, Goodyear Sales Director, “This is a fantastic opportunity for women to build their confidence and become savvier on the road. Women play a very important role in decision-making both at work and at home. Therefore, it is essential for them to understand the mechanics of their vehicles and choose what is best for them based on their different needs to avoid being cheated if unfamiliar. This is the first time we are running this programme in Malaysia and we urge all female motorists to hop on the bandwagon as it will be a fun, educational and informative experience”.

Also present at the launch of Women with Drive were local female celebrities, including television host, actress and singer Sarimah Ibrahim, television personality, emcee and model Bernie Chan, television host, writer and producer Xandria Ooi, young handbag designer Sasha Rowena and Team Goodyear’s very own female drifter, Azrina Jane Abdullah.

Bosch Launches Bosch Power Tools Asia Cordless Race 2011


There are many ways to power a go-kart, a small petrol engine is the most common way to do it but using a cordless drill is also one possibility.

Bosch is organising a race for cordless drill-powered go-karts and it promises to be exciting.

Eight teams selected to take part in the race will get RM12,000 in cash and six units of GSB 18V-Li professional cordless impact drills / drivers to help them build the karts and power them.

It should be fun, the contest is open to all university students so if you are a keen karter and a university student, do visit their website and find out how your team can take part in this race.

The Malaysian round will take place on July 30 and the winner will get to compete in the world finals in Beijing on 21-23 September.

Full Press release and details below, we even have a video of their cordless drills to get you an idea of what the teams will be using.





PRESS RELEASE




On the occasion of its 125th anniversary, Bosch, the global power tools technology leader, celebrates its founder, Robert Bosch’s principles of excellence, innovative drive and social commitment with the launch of the Bosch Power Tools Asia Cordless Race 2011.

Held for the first time in Malaysia, the race aims to cultivate an innovative mindset amongst Malaysia’s future generation by challenging university students to design and build racing karts powered by Bosch cordless Lithium-Ion technology.

“We believe that a bright future needs a solid past,” said Mr. Chu Chee Bee, Regional Sales Director for ASEAN South, Robert Bosch Sdn. Bhd. “The celebration of 125 years with the Bosch Power Tools Asia Cordless Race highlights Bosch’s aim to encourage and support long-term creativity in design and engineering amongst the future generation in Malaysia. Through this platform, we hope to build experience, knowledge and skills for our youth to contribute to Malaysia and Asia’s future burgeoning economy.

Open to Malaysian-based universities, the race challenges teams of up to five students to submit a blueprint design for a race kart powered by four Bosch GSB 18V-LI professional cordless impact drills / drivers.

Eight shortlisted finalists will then build and race their karts at the qualifying race on 30 July 2011 at Jalan Binjai, near the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Teams may submit their entries from 1 April – 13 May 2011 atwww.bosch-pt.com.my


To support the students, Bosch will be contributing RM12,000 and six units of its GSB 18V-Li professional cordless impact drills / drivers to each of the eight finalists to subsidise their building costs.

The winning team will represent Malaysia at the Grand Finals in Beijing, China on 21 – 23 September 2011. Also up for grabs is a total of RM15,000 worth of cash and power tools, with each finalist guaranteed a prize, regardless of their finishing position. (For full details, please refer to the fact sheet).

“It is important to emphasise that everyone is a winner, whether they finish first or eighth. What matters is the attitude to challenge convention and adopt a winning mentality,” added Mr. Chu. 

Following the huge success of last year’s Bosch Power Tools Asia Cordless Race in Shanghai, China, the 2011 competition has now been extended to the Asian region to include the Philippines, Thailand, South Korea, China and Malaysia. The Malaysian leg of the Bosch Power Tools Asia Cordless Race is endorsed by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

Bosch is a leading player in the Asian market, with its success built on a 100-year track record in the China market, while Bosch Power Tools has an 83-year history in Asia. Bosch has been operating in Malaysia since 1923.

The Power Tools division of Bosch is at the forefront of innovation and technical excellence. In 2010, the division introduced over 100 products to the Asian market, with emphasis on cordless and other innovative technologies, as well as user-friendly features, including anti-vibration control.

Mr. Chu added, “Our long history says it all. We have proven over a century that users and business partners can rely on Bosch products, our promises and on our services. This is the reason why our customers can look with confidence into a promising future with Bosch.”








LATAR KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway Enters Final Stage



Measuring 33 kms, it is a greenfield project that will provide a faster, safer choice for commuters







The KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway (LATAR Expressway) linking Kuala Lumpur at Templer’s Park in the district of Gombak with the township of Ijok in the district of Kuala Selangor on the West coast of the peninsula, has now entered into the final stage of development.
KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway Berhad (KLSEB), concessionaire for the new LATAR Expressway, announced this today.
Map of highway after the jump




Click on the map for full size view

The 33 km dual carriageway expressway will be the alternative link road to the present Jalan Sungai Buloh – Kuala Selangor (Federal Road 54). When opened, LATAR Expressway will provide for a faster, safer, smoother and non-congested drive that would take just a mere 18 minutes to accomplish from end-to-end.

Commuters will find easy access, convenience and connectivity to the many communities and townships along the LATAR Expressway.

It links the townships of Kuala Selangor, Assam Jawa, Ijok, Batang Berjuntai, Kota Puteri, Puncak Alam, Shah Alam, Bukit Jelutong, Sungai Buloh, Kundang, Rawang and Selayang.

The LATAR Expressway features four interchanges and three toll plazas on each side of the expressway. The four interchanges give faster and easy access into the existing Guthrie Corridor Expressway, PLUS North-South Expressway and the future West Coast Highway.

LATAR Expressway also features the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), CCTVs, Variable Message Signboards (VMS), traffic control devices, all weather road markers and emergency telephones that ensure the safety of commuters traversing the expressway.

Rest and service areas (R&R) can also be found on both sides of the expressway to add to the convenience of motorists wishing to take a break while plying the expressway.

The new expressway forms the North West portion of the Malaysian Government’s bigger plan for a KL Outer Ring Road (KLORR) which begins from the Templer’s Park Interchange along Federal Route 1 (KL-Rawang) to the Guthrie Corridor Expressway.

KLORR is a planned orbital ring road within the greater Kuala Lumpur area as an alternative to the present congested Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2).

Currently, the completed sections of KLORR include the Guthrie Corridor Expressway linking to Elite Expressway from Bukit Jelutong, Shah Alam to Saujana Putra, and the South Klang Valley Expressway from Saujana Putra to Kajang. In addition KLORR connects Kajang to Hulu Langat via the SILK Highway.

With the impending completion of LATAR Expressway, 75% of the KLORR network would be formed leading to the Government’s greater vision for traffic dispersal that reduces congestion in Kuala Lumpur city.

With the new LATAR Expressway in place, it is expected to spur further growth of property developments, townships and commerce in the region, just as it has during the construction period.

Construction of the LATAR Expressway began in October 2008 and is expected to complete in the near future. With inspections by the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) to duly follow, it is hoped that motorists can enjoy the new expressway by the middle of this year.

The concession was awarded to KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway Berhad for a period of 40 years. Mudajaya Holdings Berhad is the turnkey contractor for this expressway who was awarded the job for a contract value amounting to RM958 million. The construction divided into two packages, comprises package 1 of the proposed design-and-build contract from Asam Jawa to Kundang, while package 2 is from Kundang to Templer's Park.