Edaran Tan Chong Malaysia Launched The All New Nissan Grand Livina. (Official Press Release)

Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) is proud to reveal the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA today. The Nissan GRAND LIVINA first debuted in December 2007 and has been receiving overwhelming response as the best-selling non-national brand Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV). Since its first launch in 2007, there are now more than 65,000 units of Nissan GRAND LIVINA on Malaysian roads. 

The Director of Marketing and Product Planning of ETCM, Mr. Tan Keng Meng said: “It is our great pleasure to introduce to Malaysian motorists the latest version of the Nissan GRAND LIVINA. We believe that, while retaining the core concept of ‘Drives like a sedan, fits like an MPV’, the refreshed exterior and interior styling, along with more than 50 new enhancements, will attract young families with an urban lifestyle and who also enjoy recreational activities.”

Exterior-wise, the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA has a fresh new look for the front and back, complemented by new V-spoke alloy wheels, door mouldings and wing mirrors with integrated LED indicators.  

The combination of the new chrome grill with fine sculptured horizontal panes, aggressive lines of the front bumper and expressive headlamps creates the impression of “elegant dynamism”. At the rear, the new tail-lamps now expand horizontally across the tailgate showcasing rear reflectors for a wider, sportier look. 

Nissan’s Intelligent Key (i-Key) system which allows for true keyless entry and start is now available in the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA. With i-Key, New Nissan GRAND LIVINA owners are able to experience a higher level of convenience and security by virtue of not having to operate the remote control when entering or exiting the seven-seat MPV.   

The new two-tone interior colour scheme with revised fabric is among the highlights of the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA. The premium image is further supplemented by a new Fine Vision Meter cluster with Multi-Information Display (MID), which shows essential vehicle information such as fuel consumption and remaining range. Additionally, the new three-spoke steering wheel now incorporates control switches for the new Wide 2DIN audio head unit and MID. The controls are also illuminated thus making its operation easier at night.  

What has not changed is the GRAND LIVINA’s best-in-its-class comfort which is achieved through well though-out seat design and the clever utilisation of space. For example, only a single action is required to lower the rear seats completely flat without having to remove the new large-size headrests.

The New Nissan GRAND LIVINA is powered by the proven HR16DE or MR18DE fuel-efficient engines. These compact and lightweight, all-aluminum alloy 4-cylinder engines with valve timing control technology deliver responsive performance, strong refinement and top class fuel efficiency. The Electric Power Steering (EPS) helps to provide ease of maneuverability with reduce fuel consumption. 

Safety has also been upgraded with seat-belt pre-tensioners and load limiters for the front passengers, along with compliance with the latest UNECE crash tests. Dual front SRS airbags are standard along with Nissan’s Zone Body Construction, Collapsible Steering Wheel, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist System (BA) and Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). 

Recognising that today’s frenetic lifestyle is characterized by continuous distractions of modern gadgets and entertainment opportunities and hence increased isolation, Mr. Tan shared that the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA is geared towards the theme of Togetherness and Happiness. “We recognise the New Nissan Grand Livina as the best platform for gathering family members together and providing a comfortable space to communicate with each other. Life is a journey, and it’s our loved ones who are the greatest source of happiness. In the Nissan Grand Livina you can spend quality time with your loved ones as you journey effortlessly along Malaysia’s roads,” he said.

During the launch, Mr. Stephanus Ardianto, General Manager of Asia and Oceania Department, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd also commented: “I believe the Nissan GRAND LIVINA is a popular choice for many Malaysians, and it will continue to pleasantly surprise drivers and passengers by delivering a stress-free driving experience – whether its city driving, long-distance driving, leisure or daily use.”

The New Nissan GRAND LIVINA is available in 1.6L Manual, 1.6L Auto and 1.8L Auto. Optional accessories and IMPUL packages are available in all variants of the New Nissan Grand Livina.  A choice of five colours includes the All-New Graphite Blue, Diamond Black, Bronze Gold, Brilliant White and Tungsten Silver. 

The New Nissan Grand Livina is available at all Nissan Showrooms Nationwide with a price, starting from RM 86,880 on-the-road, with warranty of 3-year or 100,000 km (whichever comes first).

ETCM targets to sell 2,500 units of the New GRAND LIVINA by the end of 2013. Customers can enjoy paying a monthly installment of just RM 599 (subject to terms and conditions) for the New Nissan GRAND LIVINA. Bookings are now available at Nissan Showrooms nationwide.

Appendix

Key Features of the New Nissan Grand Livina

Exterior

Interior

Utility/ Features

• Chrome front grille
• Swooping headlamps
• Front bumper with fog lights (1.8L Auto)
• Rear bumper with integrated rear reflectors
• Horizontal rear lamps
• Wing mirror with LED indicator (1.8L Auto)
• 15” V-spoke alloy wheels 
• Body side moulding
• Fine vision meter with MID 
• 2-tone colour scheme & new fabric for seats
• New design of steering wheel with audio & MID controls
• i-Key – Keyless entry & keyless start switch (1.8L Auto)
• Wide 2-DIN audio 
• Pre-tensioners and load limiters front seatbelts
• Flexible seating arrangement 

New Colours

• Graphite Blue
• Diamond Black
• Bronze Gold

Nasim Launches New Blue Box Outlet At Nusajaya. (Official Press Release)

As part of its aggressive on-going nationwide network expansion exercise, Nasim Sdn.Bhd. today launched its latest outlet in the country, Peugeot Nusajaya.

Peugeot Nusajaya is the sixth new outlet launched by Nasim this year and the fifth Peugeot outlet in the state of Johor, which represents the second largest market for new car registrations in the country.

Owned and operated by AutoportalSdnBhd, Peugeot Nusajaya will serve Nusajaya as well as the surrounding areas such as Bukit Indah, Gelang Patah, Senai, Kulai, Skudai, Pontian, Gugusan Taib Andak, Pekan Nenas, Simpang Rengam and Ulu Tiram.

Built at a cost of RM1 million, Peugeot Nusajaya features a showroom with customer lounge facilities,a meeting room, Astro and free high-speed WiFi internet in addition to a service centre equipped with three service bays with the capacity to service up to 12 cars a day.

However by the first quarter of 2015, Autoportal Sdn.Bhd. will open a larger 3S facility in Tampoi located in the Iskandar region. Built with an investment of approximately RM3 million, this impressive 1 acre facility will feature a built up of 43,000 sq feet with a minimum of 10 service bays to serve the growing market for European cars.

The current location at Nusajaya will be retained as a satellite outlet featuring sales and service facilities.

Nasim COO, Dato’ Samson Anand George said Peugeot Nusajaya will enable the company to tap into the growing demand for European cars in Johor.

“Last year the European market expanded by 37% in this state, outperforming the overall market growth. So far in 2013, we have seen the demand for European brands in Johor increase, keeping in line with the national trend,” he said.

Peugeot Nusajaya is part of Nasim’s rapid nationwide network expansion exercise for 2013 which has seen the launch of outlets in Butterworth, BatuPahat, AlorSetar, Kuala Terengganu and Georgetown. Nasim will launch four more outlets by year end bringing its total number of outlets nationwide to 30.

In addition, NasimSdnBhd recently launched the Peugeot Diwali Campaign which runs from September 16 to November 5, 2013 at all its outlets nationwide. The campaign offers up to 8 months of free installments for selected award-winning models which are the 408 range, 508 range, 3008 SUV, 5008 MPV, 308 Turbo and the 308 Griffe.

Nasim Sdn.Bhd. is also set to launch the much anticipated and highly acclaimed 208 GTInext month.

All Peugeot models come with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, 24-Hour Peugeot Assistance, Peugeot Privilege and complimentary access to the Peugeot Lounge.

source: Nasim Sdn.Bhd.

The All New Toyota Vios Will Be Launch Next Week

For those who have booked and waiting for the all new Toyota Vios can rejoices yourself as UMW Toyota Motors have indicated that the all new Toyota Vios will be launch next week. For those who wish to look at the car in its flesh before placing your booking can visit your nearest authorise Toyota dealers by next week. Auto Insider Malaysia will be there covering the launch and stay tunes for more updates!!!

Naza Kia Previews The All New Kia Picanto To The Malaysian Public

During the Kia Go Xtra Campaign Prize Giving ceremony, Naza Kia Malaysia has given the Malaysian public a chance to preview the all new Kia Picanto which will be launched next month into the Malaysian market.

The Kia Picanto is powered by a 1.25 litre Kappa engine which has the ability to push 87hp and 120Nm of torque which also can be found in the current and next generation Hyundai i10. The engine is paired to a five speed manual and also a four speed auto box with the fuel consumption rated at18km/l. This is good news for those who likes to save their fuel cost with the recent increase of fuel price.

It will feature standard safety kit which includes ABS, ESC and six airbags with an all round disc brake which is the first of its kind for this range of cars.

As can be seen in the picture, there is also a DRL integrated with the headlamp and also the car packs with features such as steering wheel audio switches and Bluetooth phone answering buttons, a manual aircond and auto headlamps with a push start button capabilities.

Based on the hinted price that was revealed during the press conference, the highest specs car which is the four speed auto is targeted to be price below RM 63,000 and for the manual range will be price below RM 60,000. For those who are interested with this model can place your bookings now at your nearest authorize Kia dealers.

Naza Kia Malaysia Awards Loyal Customers

Recently Naza Kia Malaysia, the official distributor of Kia Motors vehicle awarded the winners for the Kia Customer Loyalty Program- the Kia Go-Xtra Campaign 2013.

A total of three grand prize winners which walks away with an all expenses paid trip for two  for five days four nights trip to Seoul, RM 1000 in pocket money and RM 1000 worth of Kia service vouchers. Besides that they also get the chance to tour Kia's manufacturing plant and R&D centre where they will get a first hand look at Kia's advanced design and production capabilities.

To participate in this campaign, customers who services their Kia vehicles at authorised service centers from May 2 till June 30th were given a "Sa-Rang-Hae, Yo Kia" ( I Love Kia) windscreen stickers. 

These customers then had to get spotted with the sticker displayed on their vehicles to be shortlisted by Naza Kia Malaysia. The 50 shortlisted finalist were then required to sent their most creative photo of their best Kia " Family-like Care" moment to Naza Kia Malaysia.

There were twenty consolation prizes which consisted of RM 500 Kia service vouchers.

Toyota Eco Youth Challenge Heats Up. (Official Press Release)

The Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) programme that was initiated in 2001 continues to inspire and motivate participating schools towards a greener and cleaner lifestyle not only within school premises but also in their community. The on-site judging for Toyota Eco Youth Programme begins since September, which will culminate in the TEY Closing Ceremony and Convention in October where students had to present their projects and set up booths to captivate judges.

A total of 40% points will go to the on-site judging, while the rest goes to website/blog development, exhibition displays and presentation at the TEY convention. The distribution of points helps students see a project in its entirety; from planning and idea development to implementation, marketing, vocal presentation and creative input. Using UMWT’s proprietary 8-step Problem Solving Methodology, participating students had to identify an environmental problem in the school and find ways to solve it.

One of the key CSR pillars of UMW Toyota Motor, the TEY programme started off as an eco contest among selected schools. The programme was extended to community level in 2011 in conjunction with its tenth anniversary, encouraging participants to create strategic partnerships with local community, the local councils, and government agencies such as the Department of Environment and Irrigation Department.

“The second phase of the TEY programme met with tremendous success because it was the first time a school’s environmental project had to involve public,” says Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor.

This year’s participants continue to surprise the judging committee with their innovative ideas for environmental problems within their community.

“It is gratifying to see the students challenging themselves to do things they seldom like such as visiting a landfill. Garbage is a growing problem in Malaysia but no one wants to know or do something about it,” says Encik Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, Director of Marketing, UMW Toyota Motor during the on-site judging.

In their TEY blog, the AFTE team from SMK (P) Sultan Abu Bakar, Muar, Johor, related how they were awed by Kah Hwa Industries, a garment factory that runs on bio-fuel from coconut husks. The coconut fibres are later separated to make materials for mattresses and fertiliser. The team collected 25 tonnes of coconut husks from a dump-site and delivered them to the factory for recycling. The project was successfully implemented thanks to a brainstorming session with experts at the Tun Hussein Onn University.

Equally dedicated is the World Wise team from SM St Michael Penampang, Sabah, who conducted a green fund-raiser with recycled mineral water bottles, and participated in workshops by the Penampang Works Department, District Council, Irrigation & Drainage Department and Landscaping Department. The team’s key project, which was to clean up a clogged monsoon drain also drew enthusiastic response from other students, who helped make mudballs and a grease trap.

Many TEY projects continue to be used today, as evidenced by SMK Sri Muda, Penang, who were champions in TEY 2007 and 2010.

According to Puan Aziah Yahaya, the teacher-in-charge, the grease traps to treat the waste water from the school canteen are still in use today. Instead of purchasing commercial “bokashi” for composting, the current team uses layers of soil and food waste to reduce costs. “The school continues to participate actively in environmental initiatives, such as the recently concluded green technology competition organised by a local university and the Seberang Perai Municipal Council,” she says.

Technical knowledge aside, she observed that the students benefitted most from the exposure to green technology during TEY, which boosted the confidence of the participating students.

“Environmental science is an important part of our lives and we are happy to provide a platform for these out-of-classroom lessons in collaboration with the Ministry of Education,” says Datuk Ismet.

He concludes that educating our youth to care for the environment is an investment in the future. “Our natural resources are not infinite. We need caring and sensitive leaders to ensure there will be sustainability for the future generations.”

source: UMW Toyota Motors Sdn. Bhd. 

Toyota Boshoku UMW Sdn. Bhd. 3rd Plant Opening With Investment of RM 22 Million. (Official Press Release)

Toyota Boshoku UMW Sdn Bhd (TBU) recently held an opening ceremony for their third (3^rd) plant. TBU was established as a joint-venture with Toyota Boshoku Corporation, Japan and UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd in 2006. TBU focuses on manufacturing and assembling seats, door trims and interior parts for Toyota Vios, Hilux, Fortuner, Innova, Hiace manufactured by Assembly Services Sdn Bhd (ASSB) and Hino commercial vehicles.

TBU has allocated over RM22 million to develop the new TBU plant 3 on a 3,200 square meter built-up area. The project started early this year as part of UMW Toyota Motor’s RM1 billion investment plan for 3 years until 2013.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony of the new plant, Datuk Ismet Suki, UMW Toyota Motor’s President said, “Toyota Boshoku UMW (TBU) was established more than 25 years ago. Previously named Seat Industries (M) Sdn Bhd, TBU plant 1 started its operations at ASSB manufacturing facility, assembling seats for Corolla and later on expanding to seat frame, door trim and headlining assembly for other Toyota models”.

Datuk Ismet also added that in 2011, TBU invested over RM 8 million to develop plant 2. It focuses on the sewing and cutting operations and introduction of a new product called the “Package Tray” which is also known as the rear speaker board for the new Camry CKD project.

In line with the business growth and technical advancements, Toyota Boshoku group has consistently provided TBU with technical support in terms of high technology machine designs, line set-up and technical training.

TBU plant 3 is established to accommodate the introduction of the All New Toyota Vios project and to improve remaining processes at TBU plant 1 and plant 2 namely for seat padding and form in place (FIP) head rest for the All-New Vios production.

“At the same time, this plant will be pioneering the introduction of vibration absorption foam, in order to provide comfort ride to Toyota customers. TBU is also the first plant in Malaysia to introduce automated nonstop mould carrier changing.  This plant has the seat forming padding capacity of a total of 118 sets per day for The-All New Vios”, said Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor.

As the number of Toyota vehicles on the road grew, the demand for assembling seats, door trims and interior parts has also increased.  “Since 2004, the sales turnover has grown from RM 121 million to RM 230 million in 2012”, added Datuk Ismet Suki.

All operations and processes at the plant are specifically designed utilizing the Toyota Production System (TPS) to ensure production of good quality seat as per Toyota standards in terms of weight, density, hardness and appearance. This will further improve customer satisfaction, in line with our Customer First philosophy of “One Team - Customer First”. 

He added, “With these investments and following Toyota’s continuous improvement or “Kaizen”, we believe TBU will continue to grow and realize our goal to be the leading vehicle interior system supplier in Malaysia with organization driven by customer first philosophy and guided by the Toyota Business Practices.”

The event to mark the significant milestone was held in the presence of YBhg Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor; YBhg Datuk Takashi Hibi, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor, YBhg Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor and Mr. Hiroshi Ioki, President, Toyota Boshoku Asia.

source: UMW Toyota Malaysia

Toyota Corolla, The World's Most Popular Car. (Official Press Release)

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) recently announced that cumulative global sales of the Toyota “Corolla”, the world’s most popular car, surpassed 40 million in July, reaching 40.01 million units.  This milestone marks another historic achievement for the Corolla, Toyota’s perennial global car.

In November 1966, Toyota opened a new plant in Takaoka, Aichi Prefecture, dedicated solely to Corolla production.  Two years later, with an emphasis on providing region-specific vehicles, production began in Australia and Malaysia.  From 1965 to 1968, Toyota more than doubled its total annual production from 480,000 to 1.1 million vehicles—a testament to the Corolla’s significant contribution to the growth of the company.

The Corolla currently produced at 15 plants worldwide, accounts for one in five vehicles sold in Toyota’s 76-year history.

Corolla exports to North America began in 1968 and early sales success in this market helped global cumulative sales of the car reach 1 million units just four years after launch.  In 1997, the Corolla became the world’s best-selling nameplate, with global cumulative sales exceeding 22.65 million units.  More than a million units have been sold each year since 2002; last year, a total of 3,180 Corollas were sold every day across more than 150 countries and regions.

Marking the milestone, Corolla Chief Engineer Shinichi Yasui said: “I feel this car has been nurtured by people all over the world and I am very proud to have contributed to its foundation and grateful to all those who have owned and loved their Corollas. The key to the Corolla’s success is the faithful passing down of its original development concept from Tatsuo Hasegawa: that the Corolla must bring happiness and well-being to people around the world.”

The Corolla was originally designed to meet the changing needs of Japanese commuters in the mid-1960s.  Then-Chief Engineer Tatsuo Hasegawa recognized that with Japan’s industry expanding, most consumers’ daily commuting time was increasing.  The need to get around in a personal vehicle was therefore growing and this insight led Hasegawa to conceptualize the first Corolla, with his guiding principles defining the vehicle ever since: always evolving and designed to meet consumer needs in each market.

When the first Corolla rolled off the production line, many basic safety features were still optional.  Later, to meet the needs of families, Toyota decided to include many of these features as standard. Toyota’s commitment to pursue higher and higher levels of quality and continue adding new standard features to the affordably priced Corolla has helped ensure that families around the world continue to choose it more than any other nameplate.

The history of the ever-evolving Corolla, filled with examples of technology and quality improvement, is emblematic of Toyota’s efforts to anticipate customer needs and provide ever-better cars.

source: UMW Toyota Malaysia

Nasim Launches New Dealership in Klang. (Official Press Release)

As part of its on-going nationwide network expansion exercise, Nasim Sdn Bhd is set to re-launch Peugeot Klang on Sept 28.

Peugeot Klang has now been relocated to Jalan Remia 3 in Bandar Botanik from Jalan Bayu Tinggi previously. The new showroom will serve as a Peugeot sales outlet for the following markets: Pelabuhan Klang, Bandar Klang, Pulau Indah, Pulau Lumut, Pulau Ketam and Pulau Carey.

“So far this year, we have launched five new outlets and in the coming months, we will launch five more which will bring the total number of Peugeot outlets in the country to 30.

“The new Peugeot Klang is better positioned to tap into the growing market in Klang and its surrounding areas,” said Dato’ Samson Anand George, COO of Nasim.

The new Peugeot Klang measures 5,000 sq. ft. and features free Wi-Fi and a lounge for its customers.   

So far this year, Nasim has launched outlets in Butterworth, Georgetown, Alor Setar, Kuala Terengganu and Batu Pahat. Including Peugeot Klang, Nasim and its dealers have invested RM17 million on new Peugeot outlets this year.

In the coming months, the company will launch three more outlets in the Klang Valley, an outlet in Johor and one in Pahang. As of July 31, Nasim has recorded sales of 3,590 units in 2013, up 7% from the same period in 2012. The sales growth has been led by the 408, 508 and the all-new 208.

To commemorate the launch of Peugeot Klang on Sept 28 and in conjunction with the upcoming Diwali festive celebrations, several activities will be held at the outlet from 10 am to 2 pm including designing a ‘Kolam,’ lighting up lamps to celebrate the festival of lights, test drives and refreshments. On Sept 29, there will be test drives and refreshments at the outlet.

In addition, Nasim has launched the Peugeot Diwali Campaign which offers free monthly instalments of up to eight months for selected award-winning models. The offer is applicable to the 408 range, 508 range, 3008 SUV, 5008 MPV, 308 Turbo and the 308 Griffe. The campaign began on Sept 16 and runs until November 5, 2013 and is available at all Peugeot outlets nationwide.

All Peugeot models come with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, 24-Hour Peugeot Assistance, Peugeot Privilege and complimentary access to the Peugeot Lounge. 

source: Nasim Sdn. Bhd.