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.

VIDEO: Hyundai i30 test drive

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 Snapshots last Chg. Crude Oil ICE Brent ($/bbl) 124.40 +0.55 &nbsp Nymex Lt. Sweet 112.11 +0.66 &nbsp DME Oman 118.05 +2.30 Products RBOB ($/gal.) 3.29 +0.01 &nbsp Heating Oil 3.23 +0.01 &nbsp ICE Gas Oil ($/ton) 1,026.50 +6.00 Natural Gas Nymex HH ($/MMBtu) 4.32 +0.01 &nbsp ICE UK NBP (p/therm) 58.33 +0.15 Spot Markets Snapshots last Chg. Crude Oil Opec Basket ($/bbl) 116.00 -1.37 Natural Gas New York 4.70 +0.15 *($/MMBtu) Henry, LA 4.33 +0.12 &nbsp Katy, Texas 4.33 +0.15 &nbsp AECO, Canada 3.69 +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 125^th 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.

VIDEO: Launch of the Volvo S60

The Volvo S60 is fully loaded with safety features and this includes an ability to apply emergency brakes to avoid other vehicles as well as passengers. The car is taking road safety technology to another level by giving the vehicle autonomy over full braking.

watch the video demonstration after the jump. We also have the full Press release after the jump

PRESS RELEASE


So naughty!


The all-new Volvo S60 drives Volvo performance into the future with its slinky design,
driving dynamics, unsurpassed luxury and ground-breaking safety features


Sportiest Volvo ever launched in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, April 6: Volvo’s ‘naughtiest’ and most dynamic model to date has hit the
ground racing, and Malaysians are in for the ride of their lives once they get behind the wheel of
the all-new, all-gorgeous and all-powerful S60.

Available in two fully imported variants, the 3.0 T6 AWD (all-wheel drive) and 2.0 T5, the all-
new S60 is also Volvo’s sportiest and safest car to date and one that promises a more ‘naughty’
driving performance than any previous Volvo. This stunning looker is expected to usher in a
new generation that will change the future of the Swedish brand.

"The new S60 is pure driving pleasure, with a sporty, extrovert design that delivers enthusiastic
driving characteristics,” said Mr. Goran Larsson, President of Volvo Car Malaysia. “It more than
lives up to its promise as Volvo’s most dynamic car ever, which is something that becomes very
apparent the naughtier you are behind the wheel!”

Driving Dynamics
In Malaysia, the S60 T6 comes with the self-adjusting Four-C chassis with three settings for
three times the pleasure - Comfort for cruising, Sport for when you’re feeling naughty and
Advance to increase driving dynamics. The T5 has Dynamic chassis as standard, but both
variants boast improved steering, stiffer springs and bushes as well as more damping than any
previous model.

The S60 is the first sedan model in the market with Advanced Stability Control. This anti-skid
feature makes it possible to identify skidding tendencies at a very early stage, thus improving
handling and allowing for rapid avoidance manoeuvres.
There’s also the S60’s new Corner Traction Control feature, which uses Torque Vectoring for
smoother cornering. When cornering, the car's inner driven wheel is braked simultaneously as
more power is transmitted to the outer driven wheel to allow for tight cornering while reducing
any tendency to understeer. This system makes it easier to smoothly maintain your desired line
on winding roads, in roundabouts and on wet surfaces.

Bold Design
The all-new S60 boasts a luxurious, driver-oriented interior and a suggestively stylish exterior
that is guaranteed to get hearts racing! The S60’s "coupe with four doors" profile features a C-
pillar that stretches to the tail lamps, while the coupe-like roof line is accompanied by a new
shoulder contour on either side of the lower body to create a gentle yet powerful double wave
from the headlamps to the tail lamps.

The dip in the middle of the double wave visually pushes the car down to enhance the stance
and give it a ‘hungry’, lowered look. The sculpted bonnet and the short overhangs front and rear
also emphasise the sports-car feel.

Turbocharged Engines
The S60 T6 features an award-winning, turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol engine that has been
boosted further, primarily thanks to lower internal friction. It now pumps out a blistering 304
hp, no less than 440 Nm of torque and coupled with Instant Traction AWD, the T6 is Volvo’s
most powerful 6-cylinder engine. Power is delivered via Volvo's second-generation six-speed
automatic Geartronic transmission, which takes you from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds flat.

The 4-cylinder in-line turbocharged 2.0 T5 is no slouch, either. It produces a generous 240 hp,
with 320 Nm of torque and goes from 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.

Innovative Technology
Sculpted to move drivers physically and emotionally with its in-your-face attitude, the S60 also
ensures drivers enjoy a blissful, safe drive every time. This sports sedan pushes Volvo’s world-
renowned safety hallmarks to the fore, with more safety components than any brand in its
segment.

The all-new S60’s safety hallmark has to be its groundbreaking Pedestrian Detection with full
auto brake feature. A world’s first, it detects pedestrians who walk onto the road in front of the
car, warn the driver - and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in
time. Pedestrian Detection can avoid a collision with a pedestrian at speeds of up to 35 km/h if
the driver does not react in time.

Pedestrian Safety may be the cherry on the cake, but the S60 is also packed with other high-
tech solutions that include active preventive safety features such as:

City Safety - Standard on S60. The car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in
time when the vehicle ahead slows, stops or if the S60 driver is driving too fast towards
a stationary object. The system lessens or even entirely avoids low-speed rear-end
impacts at speeds up to 30 km/h

Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB) - warns and automatically brakes if the car
risks hitting another vehicle from behind

Driver Alert Control (DAC) - detects and alerts tired and distracted drivers

Lane Departure Warning - alerts the driver if the car runs across the lane markers
without the turn indicator being used

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist – is a standard feature using radar-
based adaptive cruise control system which automatically maintains a set gap to the
vehicle in front. This comfort-enhancing system operates at speeds of 0 to 200km/h,
which basically means the car drives itself while in queues with repeated speeding up
or slowing down, including speeds below 30 kilometre per hour (perfect for Malaysian
traffic jams !!)

Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) - detects vehicles in the offset rear blind spot on
both sides

Driver Control Interface
The S60’s new infotainment system, the Volvo Sensus, allows the driver to get up close and
personal with high-tech features without having to read the owner’s manual. Sensus presents
information from the audio unit, navigation system and other functions on a 7” colour screen
installed high in the centre console and is accessible via steering-wheel controls.

The T6 also boasts Volvo’s advanced sound system, Premium Sound, which pumps out high-
definition sound courtesy of a class-D digital 5x130W amplifier, Dolby Digital in combination
with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, the award-winning MultEQ from Audyssey Laboratories and
12 loudspeakers.

The all-new Volvo S60 T5 and T6 for the Malaysian market will come with two brand new
colours, Vibrant Copper and Flamenco Red. The T6 is priced at RM348,000 while the T5 sells

for RM288,000 (both prices on-the-road, without insurance).

“Our mission for the S60 was to create the sportiest Volvo ever – and we are 100% delighted
with the result,” said Larsson. “And we are extremely confident that Malaysians will agree with
us. This will be the car that dramatically changes the public perception of Volvo and the driving
performance of Volvo cars in the future.”

For more details on the all-new, all-naughty S60, please visit www.volvocars.com.my.

VIDEO: Launch of the new 6-series convertible

One variant available, 640i priced at RM868,800



Press Release and full details after the jump




PRESS RELEASE

Group Malaysia introduces the all new BMW 6 Series Convertible

The new generation of the BMW 6 Series Convertible sets new standards with flowing lines, sporting proportions and a stylish design language. 

Kuala Lumpur, 12^th April 2011 – BMW Group Malaysia today introduced the all new BMW 6 Series Convertible, the premium convertible that seamlessly blends refined sporting performance with unsurpassed luxury refinement.

First introduced in 1976, the beautiful and elegant BMW 6 Series was a car that captured the imagination of drivers everywhere with its on-road power and agility, coupled with its elegant and flowing lines. Over three decades and two model generations later, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible represents a reimagining of that iconic BMW model, with its elongated lines and expressive sculpted surfaces exuding dynamism and exclusivity.

“There is arguably nothing more evocative in the world of automobile design than a long and lean convertible, which strongly implies a powerful sports car with an optional roof capable of delivering long distance travel in luxury and style. The all new BMW 6 Series Convertible truly delivers on that promise in every way, setting segment-defining standards in terms of aesthetics, driving dynamics, efficiency and comfort” said Geoff Briscoe, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

The long bonnet, short front overhang, long wheelbase, low waistline and overall strong orientation of the silhouette towards the rear axle of the vehicle are the core design characteristics of this superlative yet elegant BMW convertible. In fact, the BMW 6 Series Convertible only recently received one of the world’s leading honours for product design, the Red Dot award for outstanding design, underlining car model’s timeless and appealing aesthetic.

Since the introduction of the second generation of the BMW 6 Series in 2003, the BMW Group has sold a total of over 50,000 units of this coveted car worldwide, a testament to its enduring appeal and sporting luxury pedigree.

“Based on the total sales for the first quarter of the year, BMW Group Malaysia sold a total of 1182 BMW, 65 MINI and 58 Motorrad vehicles, resulting in a record-breaking total of 1305 units for the first three months of 2011, up from 1021 units for the same period in 2010. This represents an impressive 27.8% growth, and we are confident that the all-new BMW 6 Series Convertible will contribute to continued strength of the BMW marque in Malaysia,” added Briscoe

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible was launched with one engine variant, the BMW 640i Convertible which features an impressive 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine that produces an outstanding 235kW/320 hp. The powerplant comes with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, direct petrol injection and VALVETRONIC, and is mated to an 8-speed sports automatic transmission, resulting in a near-effortless 0-100km/h time of 5.7 seconds.

The new BMW 640i Convertible, like all current BMW models, also features BMW EfficientDynamics measures as standard, including amongst others, an Auto Start/Stop function which switches off the engine whenever the vehicle comes to a stop at a junction or in a traffic jam. This results in a fuel consumption level of only 7.9 litre/100 km and ensures that the new BMW 6 Series Convertible once again takes the lead in terms of fuel efficiency and low emissions.

From an exterior standpoint, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible at 4.89 metres in length represents a seven centimetre increase over its predecessor, which is almost matched by the increase in wheelbase dimensions. Not that this increase in size translates to a bulkier look though, as this premium convertible comes replete with the trademark BMW kidney grille, distinctively contoured hood and muscular curves which evoke the natural grace of a wave, underlining its athletic stance.

Like its predecessor, it is an unmistakably classic, multi-layered canvas roof sports the trademark fin roof design that the BMW 6 Series Convertible is known for. Opening at the mere touch of a button, this elegant roof folds into the boot of the new BMW 6 Series Convertible in under 19 seconds, allowing passengers to enjoy uninhibited open-top cruising. On the other hand, the operation of closing the roof takes 24 seconds, once again giving the car its sleek, coupe-like profile. The soundproofing and stiffness of the fin roof have been further optimised in this latest model, allowing operation at speeds of up to 40 km/h and ensuring that thermal insulation and noise levels are optimised, allowing for all-year, all-round use.

Look under its surface and you will find that the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is more than ably equipped to match up to its sporty exterior.  With an all-new chassis that features a double-wishbone front suspension, integral rear axle, a wider track, and the BMW’s trademark 50:50 front-rear weight distribution for a wide spectrum of ability, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is the definitive long-distance cruiser.

Showcasing the premium marque’s commitment to matching beauty with technological superiority, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is also fitted with a host of class-leading features to provide the complete premium driving experience, including Driving Dynamics Control, Integral Active Steering and electromechanical power steering. Driving Dynamics Control enables discerning drivers to pick between sporting agility or exceptional ride comfort, just by pushing a button to individually adjust vehicle characteristics, including engine and steering response, gearshift dynamics, DSC Stability Control, as well as the electronic dampers and body roll stabilisation.

Additionally, the BMW 6 Series Convertible is the first vehicle in its segment to feature Integral Active Steering and electromechanical power steering to deliver hallmark BMW steering precision and greater manoeuvrability at all speeds, whether you are tackling a twisty mountain road, sprawling major highways or even when cruising downtown. The Integral Active Steering does this by complementing the front wheel active steering movements by getting the rear wheels to steer in either the same or opposite direction to make the new BMW 6 Series Convertible feel flexible and more agile in any driving condition.

Interior wise, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible features spacious 2+2 seating with ample space even for rear passengers, and very importantly for this segment, the luggage compartment contains sufficient space for two large golf bags even with the roof down, with a maximum capacity of 350 litres. The new lightweight seats also come with an integrated seatbelt system, which is equipped with electric adjustment and a memory function as standard. Besides that, SunReflective Technology ensures that the leather upholstery heat up significantly less in direct sunshine when driving with the top down, further enhancing the comfort features of this premium convertible.

As with every BMW, the cockpit features an asymmetric design that ensures relevant controls are clearly angled towards the driver, with 2-zone air-conditioning with a special convertible mode and xenon headlights with LED daytime driving light rings coming as standard as well.

Possibly the most distinctive feature in the new 6 Series Convertible is the Control Display of the iDrive, which comes standard and for the first time sports a fixed, free-standing flatscreen design. In conjunction with the Navigation System Professional the display measures 10.2 inches and is framed by an elegant metal surround. With this equipment, the new BMW 6 Series Convertible features the largest on-board monitor in the segment, making it possible for the intuitive iDrive system to be operated without having to take one’s eyes off the road.

BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems and mobility services also bring a wide number of additional features to the new BMW 6 SeriesConvertible, including complete USB connectivity and Bluetooth hands free functions, as well as considerably expanded functionality for mobile phones and portable music players, on-board mobile office applications and on-board Internet. The highlight of the BMW ConnectedDrive range however is the inclusion of the BMW Head-up Display and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, which supports full-colour images and is available on the new BMW 6 Series Convertible for the very first time.

As the only vehicle in its segment to include this feature, the BMW Head-Up Display and BMW Night Vision projects virtual images from the road ahead as well as detailing vital information onto the windscreen in full spectrum of colour, significantly increasing road safety and allowing one’s eyes to focus on distance viewing, cutting down stress and ensuring a much more comfortable drive.

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible is also covered by BMW’s extensive service program, BMW Service + Repair Inclusive (BS+RI) which covers the normal wear and tear repairs or replacements as well as maintenance, service and repair of factory components of the vehicle. The service program offers peace of mind BMW ownership and provides cover from three years from its original registration date or 60,000KM, which ever comes first.   

The retail price (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive + Repair) for the new BMW 640i Convertible is from RM 868,800.00