PRESS RELEASE: Vios Challenge Celebrities Spreads Safety Awareness!!!

Driving can be fun and liberating but with that privilege comes a huge responsibility to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone around us. This was one of the clear messages celebrity race drivers for the Vios Challenge Diana Danielle, Danny Koo, Venice Min, Geraldine Gan and Shawn Lee imparted during their Road Smart, Road Fit Tour talks with college students. 

As participants of the upcoming Vios Challenge race that will be held in conjunction with the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Racing Festival in Batu Kawan Penang on August 12th and 13th, the celebrities had undergone a comprehensive training school to prepare them for their stint at the wheel of the racing Toyota Vios. 

“Although each of us wants to win the race, we were trained to be aware of the other participants on track. How we drive and the actions we take in the race may affect or endanger the other racers. Therefore, we cannot just be selfish and merely focus on our own needs and desires, but to create a safe environment for others as well,” said Danny Koo.

“Our racing environment is made as safe as possible but when we drive on public roads, we are exposed to many more dangers. There are other road users, pedestrians, young children playing or buses stopping; there’s potential danger everywhere. We need to be aware that they all share the space around us and we must be mindful of their safety as much as our own,” added Diana Danielle.

Automotive manufacturers such as Toyota have invested significantly into technologies that help reduce the effects of road accidents or even avoid accidents entirely. Technologically-advanced features such as Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and vehicle bodies featuring Toyota’s Global Outstanding Assessment (GOA) that protect the occupants have made their way into almost every Toyota passenger car today.

Despite advancements in automotive safety and the improvements made to road infrastructure, cases of road accidents in the country have not dipped. Statistics show that 7,152 people lost their lives on Malaysian roads in 2016, translating to 19 persons dying each day due to road-related incidences. 

According to the President of UMW Toyota Motor, Mr Ravindran Kurusamy, through the Road Smart & Road Fit Tour, Toyota hopes to impart the wisdom and learnings of the Vios Challenge celebrities who have a big fan following among young Malaysians.

“Young drivers remain impressionable and can be inspired to become responsible and safety-conscious road users. Through these talks, we hope that they will develop a safety-first attitude every time they start the engine,” said Mr Ravindran. 

In the first leg of the Road Smart & Road Fit Tour, the celebrities visited KDU Penang University College in Penang. During the talks too, the celebrities reminded students to always use their seat belts and to be fully focused on their driving and not be distracted by their mobile devices.

Students from KDU will also be participating in the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Racing Festival in Batu Kawan with their stage performances. The Festival will feature a myriad of activities throughout the weekend and promises to be a starry event with celebrity appearances including the eight racers who will be competing for the first time and special guests from Media Prima’s Drama Sangat bus tour who will be stopping by.

As entrance to the Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) Racing Festival is free, members of the public are encouraged to bring their family and friends along to enjoy the spectacle, smells, sounds and tastes that festivals and motorsports have to offer. Updates on event details and a schedule of activities will be posted on Toyota GAZOO Racing Malaysia’s homepage, facebook and instagram channels.

PRESS RELEASE: Public Preview Of Toyota C-HR Coming In August 2017!!!

The public will soon be able to view the upcoming all-new Toyota C-HR compact SUV when UMW Toyota Motor starts displaying the model at selected showrooms and other venues in Peninsular Malaysia from month of August onwards.

The C-HR made its first appearance at the MAA – Carlist.my Test Drive & Buy Event in May 2017 at the Setia City Convention Centre in Selangor.

The compact SUV is powered by a 1.8 litre Dual VVT-i engine and equipped with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) with sequential shifter.

It comes with a full range of safety features including Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). Others include side mirror puddle lights, Follow-me-home headlights and a luxurious interior.

Details of the event is as shown below:

No.	Venue	Date
1.	Toyota Section 19,  Petaling Jaya Showroom	4th  - 8th August 2017
2.	Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Racing Festival at Batu Kawan Stadium, Penang.	12th -13th August
3.	Toyota Subang Jaya Showroom	16th  –  22nd  Aug
4.	Mid Valley	23th  –  27th Aug
5.	Sunway Pyramid	4th – 10th  Sept

More information on the C-HR can be found in toyota.com.my and Toyota Malaysia Facebook page while interested customers are welcomed to register as prospect to receive updates on the model.

NEW LAUNCHES: Ferrari 70th Anniversary Celebration Starts In Malaysia. La Ferrari Aperta Makes Its Local Debut

Today is a special day for Ferrari fans in Malaysia as the official distributor of Ferrari, Naza Italia Sdn. Bhd has kicked off the 70th Anniversary celebration of Ferrari's founding. From its humble beginning on March 12, 1947, the birth of the first Ferrari the "Ferrari 125 S, which featured a V12 engine continues to grow into one of the automotive forces in the world, which truly embodies the Forza Ferrari tagline. 

With the big celebration for the 70th Anniversary, Naza Italia Sdn. Bhd. has brought in the symbol and iconic model of Ferrari’s 70th Anniversary, the LaFerrari Aperta which is the model being showcase worldwide for this celebration. This special series model is a limited edition spider version of the LaFerrari supercar. The LaFerrari Aperta is dedicated to the most loyal of Ferrari customers and therefore is a feature of utter exclusivity. It boasts technological excellence, dynamic performance and unique style – all of which are core values that brilliantly represent the brand and its accomplishments of the last seven decades.

With its exclusivity, Ferrari only produced 209 units of this model and all has been spoken off. Out of this 209 unit, 200 units has been sold to the exclusive clients of Ferrari while the remaining 9 units were built for the car maker 70th Anniversary celebration. 

Maranello’s latest supercar effortlessly combines extraordinary performance with the unique exhilaration of open-top driving. It is equipped with the same hybrid power unit as the coupé: an 800 cv 6,262cc V12 engine that produced 780hp/700Nm of torque and it is combine with the F1 derived Hybrid Kinectic Recovery System (HY-KERS) that pushes an additional 161hp and 200Nm of torque from the electric motor. With its combine output, this La Ferrari Aperta pushes an outstanding 950hp and more than 900Nm of accelerating torque. With this savage numbers, this Ferrari can hit its top speed in excess of 350km/h and a century sprint of less than three seconds. 

During the official announcement of the celebration in Malaysia, Datuk Wira Hj.SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, NAZA World Group Executive Chairman, said, “We are truly honoured to be part of Ferrari’s global celebrations and it gives us great pleasure to be able to pay tribute to Cavallino Rampante history with some of the most devoted Ferrari owners in the nation.”

The tip of the iceberg of this celebaration includes the weekend’s itinerary- grand rally of Ferraris from Kuala Lumpur to Penang’s UNESCO site. As one of the largest of its kind held locally, it promises an unforgettable driving experience for participating Ferraristi. Upon arrival, the Ferraris will form a majestic feature along Jalan Padang Kota Lama, just in front of the Penang City Hall – a grand celebration and head-turning spectacle that will no doubt delight on-looking Ferrari enthusiasts.

An elegant gala dinner will be hosted at one of George Town’s great historical sites, Fort Cornwallis. This exclusive venue makes for a fitting location at which to mark such a prestigious occasion. Esteemed Ferrari clients will be celebrated as members of the worldwide Ferrari family and for their enduring passion and loyalty to the Cavallino Rampante. The LaFerrari Aperta will also be unveiled in a dazzling display at the gala dinner, making the exclusive experience all the more thrilling for Ferraristi.

Ferrari Malaysia’s celebrations are part of a busy calendar of events happening in 60 countries across the globe. In a grand total of 70 events, clients and enthusiasts of the marque are being treated to specially crafted activities that honour the iconic luxury brand. As one of the cornerstones on which the Ferrari story was founded, “Driven by Emotion” is the theme of every tribute. The anniversary celebrations will culminate in Maranello on the weekend of 9 and 10 September 2017.

NEW LAUNCHES: All New Kia Rio 1.4MPI Launched In Malaysia. Price At RM80K

Continuing its momentum into 2017, Naza Kia Malaysia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in the country, today took the wraps off the fourth-generation Kia Rio at One Utama Shopping Centre. The All-New Kia Rio has been given global recognition for its modern, stylish and robust yet premium appearance over its predecessors. 

The completely restyled design of the All-New Kia Rio a fun and practical hatchback for city dwellers. Its innovative, sleek and aerodynamic design aims to be a crowd pleaser.

Speaking at the launch of the All-New Kia Rio, Dato’ Samson Anand George, Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “Though the third-generation Kia Rio was popular among Malaysians with its design, good build quality and interior features, the All-New fourth-generation Kia Rio is set to build on those strengths, and take it up a notch further by combining said features with improved spaciousness, which gives it a dash of practicality on top of its good looks.”

“The All-New Kia Rio offers customers a balanced product that combines everyday practicality together with a grand design and efficiency,” he added.

The All-New Kia Rio’s recent prestigious win at iF Design Award 2017 for outstanding product design further amplifies one of Kia’s global bestsellers’ brand new bold and innovative design. The All-New Kia Rio’s aggressive stance coupled with a modern, efficiently-packaged cabin fitted with infotainment and safety technologies earned itself a an esteemed award in the Product Design category. 

The new bold dynamic design begins from the front with the redesigned lower bumper and the sleek integration of the headlamps and the trademark ‘Schreyer’ tiger-nose grille. The design language of the All-New Rio speaks sculptured by the wind instead of penned in the studio with a solid body volume and slim side glass giving it a wide, tout appearance. At the rear, the unique tail lights are immediately distinguishable as a Rio while the tailgate handle also doubles as the housing for the rear-view camera. 

In this regard, the All-New Kia Rio will inspire you to “Find Your Groove”, as the sporty hatchback presents the groove that you have never seen before.

The All-New Kia has 4mm more headroom for the rear passengers, 8mm more legroom up front and 4mm more legroom at the back. It also has 25mm more shoulder room between the front passengers, and 31mm more shoulder room for the rear passengers. 

The increase in space also adds to the versatility of the All-New Kia Rio as the tailgate is now wider by 71mm and lowered to the ground by 26mm this allows owners to store wider, bulkier items than ever before. 

Kia has also added a fixed quarter glass and reduced with width of the C pillar, and the rear glass area has also been widened. This allows more light inside the cabin, giving the impression of spaciousness. 

The interior of the All-New stylish and agile Kia Rio has been extensively redesigned with the layout of the dashboard, giving the car with a sportier, more driver-focused design and a more premium character.

The arch-shaped dashboard, sculpted in three dimensional geometric curvature, emphasizes a spacious and airy interior. The centre of the dashboard comes fitted with a floating-type audio system with 5-inch LCD touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity, emphasising the latest technology in a trendy modern styling. 

The interior of the All-New Kia Rio boasts practicality with its fully automatic air-conditioning, and its 60:40 folding rear seats that provide even more storage space than before. It also comes with other conveniences which the market has come to appreciate in a car of this segment such as keyless entry, push start button, powered windows, and automatic headlights with static bending lights and even LED daytime running lights. 

The All-New Kia Rio is powered by a 1.4 MPI DOHC engine with D-CVVT. The engine is mated to a four-speed gearbox and produces 100ps and 133Nm of torque from just 4,000rpm. With seating capacity for five people, the all-new Rio also offers an impressive array of safety features. 

Safety features of the All-New Kia Rio include six airbags strategically placed up front and at the sides of all passengers, ISOFIX baby seat mounts, speed sensing automatic door lock, impact sensing automatic door unlock, rear sensor, and active safety systems like ABS, ESC and HAC. 

Naza Kia Malaysia believes that good service begins at the point of purchase. And as such, Naza Kia Malaysia has been working overtime to steadily and continuously improve their after sales service. With that, the after sales service has been improving, and this was reflected locally in the JD Power Malaysia 2016 CSI Study which rated Kia as the fourth best brand for after sales. 

On a global standpoint, the Kia brand also gained recognition for the impeccable standard of quality of its products, having ranked highest in JD Power’s Initial Quality Study (IQS) for two consecutive years in one of the auto industry’s most closely-watched quality surveys. 

Now available in the Malaysian market for RM79,888 on the road without insurance, in four different colours such as Clear White, Signal Red, Smoke Blue and Silky Silver. The All-New Kia Rio will be available in showrooms nationwide.

PRESS RELEASE: Own A New Ford Focus From RM668/Month*!!!

If you've been dreaming to own a Ford Focus, now it is your time as Sime Darby Auto Connexion is offering the best selling Ford vehicles - the Ford Focus from as low as RM668/month* or simply choose the RM15,000 cash rebate. 

Not only is it dashing and seriously fun to drive, the Ford Focus is packed with an array of smart technologies and powered by the award winning 1.5L EcoBoost petrol engine. Available in six different stylish colours -- Frozen White, Panther Black, Ingot Silver, Candy Red, Magnetic and Winning Blue -- it is also one of the most powerful yet efficient vehicles in the mid-size car segment, in Malaysia.

“This agile little wonder is simply a dynamic car that every Malaysian should consider owning, especially when more consumers are opting for fuel-efficient cars these days,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.

“This car also made it to the AutoBuzz.my list of the Best Cars of the Year 2016, #ABC2016, while its 1.5L EcoBoost engine received a special recognition from Vehicle of the Year Awards (VOTY) 2017 for ‘Petrol Engine of The Year’ by DSF.my-Allianz Vehicle of the Year 2017 (VOTY 2017),” he continued.

He also added, “while we take fun seriously, safety is still of utmost importance in every car we sell.”

Seriously fun features to keep you safe

At the forefront of safety innovations, the Ford Focus helps drivers maintain awareness of their surroundings via the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert feature, which uses three distinct warnings to alert drivers if the system detects a vehicle approaching either from the left or the right side, up to a range of 40 meters. Using radar technology, BLIS alerts the driver when another motorist is in the driver’s blind spot by illuminating warning LEDs in the external mirrors.

The Focus also comes with smart, hands-free parking system called Enhanced Active Park Assist, which builds on Ford’s popular Parallel Park Assist with the addition of Perpendicular Park Assist. Once activated, the system scans for available parking spaces alongside other cars. When it finds one, the system takes control of the car’s steering to guide the vehicle into the space while the driver controls the shifting, braking and acceleration.

Perpendicular Park Assist uses two new ultrasonic sensors on the rear of the car, which also enables Park-Out Assist. Park-Out Assist takes the stress out of exiting a parallel parking space by taking control of the steering while the driver operates the brake and accelerator.

In urban driving up of to 50 km/h, an Enhanced Active City Stop System can help to mitigate low-speed collisions. The system pre-charges the brakes if the car is approaching a vehicle in front too quickly. If the driver fails to take action, the system reduces engine torque and automatically applies the brakes to reduce the impact of a collision.

Another cutting-edge safety driver assist technology available in the Ford Focus is the Enhanced Transitional Stability technology that actively determines when a car meets the conditions that may lead to a spin and intervenes early to help prevent the driver from losing control. When a risk is identified, the brakes are applied to individual wheels in order to help the driver maintain control and continue on the intended path. 

When a vehicle owner is not behind the wheel, the Ford MyKeyTM allows for a spare key to be programmed to reduce the maximum speed of the vehicle, give an earlier low-fuel warning, limits the volume of the in-car entertainment or even disables it completely if the seatbelt is not fastened. The technology can provide reassurance to owners when lending their car to less experienced drivers.

Ford Focus’ impressive all new SYNCTM 3, an assistant on the road, allows voice commands to make calls, play music, and have text messages read aloud, while driving. SYNCTM 3 currently supports Android AutoTM and Apple CarPlay.

Power up!

The Ford Focus is not just smart; it’s also a green car packed with fuel efficient features such as the Active Grille Shutters which works to optimise airflow via motorized vanes which rotate to block airflow, resulting in reduced aerodynamic drag by up to six per cent to save fuel.

The 4-cylinder 1.5L EcoBoost engine is the fifth member of the EcoBoost family with the capacity to boost fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions up to 20 per cent. It is the most powerful in its class - churning out an impressive 180PS of power and 240Nm of torque!

Smart features

Other features of the Ford Focus include:

● Keyless entry Push-button Start

● Six airbags

● Dual-zone climate control

● Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

● Electronic Power-assisted Steering (EPAS)

● Torque Vectoring Control

● Hill Launch Assist

● Six-speed SelectShift with paddle shifters

The Ford Focus also offers remarkable levels of cabin quietness, with sound deadening materials – including sound-insulating windshield glass, thicker side-window glass, thicker carpets, increased insulation in the door trims, and improved engine insulation – for increased refinement.

The impressive safety features in the Ford Focus resulted in the car being awarded with Euro NCAP’s maximum 5-star rating.

Pricing for the Focus (on the road without insurance)

● Focus Trend (5 door): RM118,888*

● Focus Sport+ (5 door): RM139,888

● Focus Titanium+ (4 door): RM139,888 

If you are looking for a mid size performance vehicle that is packed with smart technologies, latest connectivity convenience and a host of safety features, now is a great time as any to take advantage of the RM668 per month* promo, exclusively from Maybank.

NEW LAUNCHES: New Toyota Vios Sports Edition Launched!!!

With growing excitement in anticipation of the upcoming Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Vios Challenge next month, interest in the Toyota Vios has also been growing. For Vios fans and enthusiasts who are now thinking about how to have a sportier Vios, UMW Toyota Motor will soon offer a special version known as the Toyota Vios Sports Edition.

Inspired by the TGR Vios Challenge race car, the appearance of the Vios Sports Edition is almost similar but can be registered for road use. The sports aerokit with a trunk spoiler and black-painted alloy wheels provide a head-turning look while bold stripes around the bodywork are similar to race car as well.

The Vios Sports Edition also promises sharper handling with a sports suspension fitted. With this, the car’s centre of gravity is lowered by up to 27mm so it sits lower on the road. This reduces body roll during cornering, enhancing stability.

The sporty image is also evident inside the car with an exclusive design on the sports fabric seats. The design with the Sports edition emblem is also used for the exclusive carpet mats. The gear knob is also a sporty type while on the door sills, illuminated scuff plates with amber illumination provide protection to the bodywork while complementing the sporty image. Amber illumination is also provided in the front footwells to enhance the sporty feeling while also offering better visibility of the area.

Priced at RM85,300 (without insurance), the Vios Sports Edition comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, subject to Terms and Conditions. Besides that, customer who purchased the vehicle will receive a complimentary Sports Edition merchandise which consists of TGR polo shirt than can be customised with their name, cap and tumbler.

Bookings are now accepted at all Toyota showrooms nationwide. For the location of showrooms, please visit www.toyota.com.my.

NEW LAUNCHES: All New 2018 Honda Accord Unveiled!!

Finally, the all new Honda Accord has been launched in the United States with much fanfare. As per all new Honda design language, the redesigned Accord has a unique front fascia with its prominent grille, sculpted hood with a sportier roofline and also a unique kink to the rear quarter panel window. At the back the new Accord features an integrated rear spoiler with LED taillights that also a dual exhaust tips with chrome accents to complete the whole look.

On the inside, the cabin was design inspired of a concert hall, with ambiance that welcomes the passengers. The instrument panel of the new Accord features a full LCD display ala Audi Virtual Cockpit and also an 8 inch free standing Audio System that is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible. 

In terms of its dimension, the Accord's exterior were pretty much the same with its overall length being shortened by 10mm (4,880mm) and 15mm lower (1,450mm), 10mm wider (1,860mm) and a longer wheelbase of 55mm (2,830mm) 

Besides that, new technologies has also being features in the new Accord such as wireless smartphone charging, Near Field Communication (NFC), over the air system updates, a six inch head -up display, a 4G LTE in car WiFi, HondaLink telematics which incorporates emergency assistance, remote locking and engine start, remote diagnostic and speed tracking and also up to 10 speaker system pushing 450 Watts of sound.

In terms of engine choices, for the North American market, there will be two engine choices mainly turbocharged 1.5 liter four cylinder engine that pushes 192hp and 260Nm of torque connected to either a 6 speed manual or a CVT gearbox. The other engine choice is a turbocharged 2.0 liter petrol engine that develops 252hp and 369Nm of torque also connected to 6 speed manual or a 10 speed auto transmission. 

Buyers looking for something more eco-friendly car can look forward to the Accord Hybrid which features a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine that paired with two electric motors with performance specifications will be announced closer to launch. 

On the handling side, the 2018 Accord has been equipped with a new MacPherson strut front suspension and rear multi-link setup. Other highlights include an adaptive damper system and a lower center of gravity.

As per all new vehicle, diet on the weight is crucial and Honda has put the Accord on the treadmill which shed 49.9 to 79.8 kg as compared to its predecessor by utilizing ultra-high-strength steel that make its lighter with high rigidity body structure. 

As per current Honda fashion, buyers in Malaysia can roughly estimates the look of the all new Honda Accord that will be launched here in Malaysia as per Honda Civic that was launched in Malaysia which looks almost identical to the North American model. I can safely presume, the based engine for this new Accord will be the 2.0 liter naturally aspirated petrol engine mated to a CVT gearbox as per new CR-V that was launched recently and the 1.5 liter turbocharged engine with CVT gearbox serving the mid and high range model. Do expect the Honda Sensing safety net to be installed in the high end model. 

NEWS: Perodua On Target To Achieve 202,000 Sales This Year!!!

Perodua sold 99,700 vehicles in the first six months of 2017, an increase of 2.4% compared to the same period last year of 97,400 units; with the Perodua Axia as the number one model sold for the year so far.

“Based on our internal estimation, the total industry volume (TIV) from January to June this year would reach 284,200 vehicles, which means that Perodua’s market share will be around 35.1% so far this year,” Perodua’s President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk (Dr) Aminar Rashid Salleh said.

He said that during the first six months of the year, all Perodua models were number one in their respective segments with the Axia selling 32,600 units, followed by the Bezza at 28,300 units, Myvi 24,000 units and Alza with 14,700 units. 

“Also based on our internal observation, the total industry volume has improved by 2.3% to 284,200 for the first half of 2017 compared to 275,500 vehicles in the same period of 2016,” he said.

Aminar said that the increase in sales for the first half of the year was due to aggressive sales campaigns initiated by almost all automotive players as well as new models introduced in the market during the time period. In addition most auto players were also clearing the carry over 2016 stocks with attractive discounts and over trade.

“Despite the improvement in sales, we foresee that the tighter lending guideline is still by far our greatest challenge to overcome as most of our customers are first time buyers,” he said. 

As mentioned during the press conference, Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd, Managing Director, Dato’ Dr. Zahari Husin concur the numbers highlighted by the media members that currently the loan approval of new Perodua buyers is roughly around 50% approval rate.  

Aminar said that for this year, Perodua will focus on its current model line-up by offering attractive promotions for the consumers.

He added the initiatives and plans to improve on Perodua’s after sales will be hasten with the focus to further improve on its customer satisfaction and to deliver the best Perodua experience at every touch point.

“We are encouraged by the support shown to us by the general public; for the immediate future, we welcome the public to visit our showrooms to know about our current promotions.”

“This include our on-going Raya Celebrations ‘Salam Syawal’, which offers amazing offers on selected models as well as Perodua’s celebration of the Myvi’s 12th anniversary,” Aminar said.

He said that the Perodua is also initiating a special campaign for the Myvi which see cash givebacks of up to RM7,500 in celebration of the model’s popularity with Malaysian drivers.

“We welcome everyone to visit the most convenient Perodua Sales showroom to see the amazing deals await you. Also, we invite the public to take part in our Myvi 12-year anniversary which offers a cash prize of up to RM12,000,” Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd, Managing Director, Dato’ Dr. Zahari Husin said.

On the full year sales outlook, Aminar said: “we are cautiously optimistic of achieving our initial sales target of 202,000 this year.” In 2016, Perodua sold 207,100 vehicles. 

On after sales, Perodua saw 1.02 million vehicles coming into its service centre for the first six months of 2017, an increase of 1.2% from 1.01 million intakes for the same period of 2016.

Meanwhile on exports, Perodua shipped 1,854 vehicles to 6 countries for the first six months of 2017.

“The recent introduction of the Bezza in Mauritius and Sri Lanka has been well received with the model selling 8 units and 79 units respectively,” Aminar said.

On production, Perodua produced 96,600 vehicles for the first half of the year and expect to produce 197,000 by year end.

During this press conference, Perodua also mentioned that they are seriously considering of launching an SUV vehicle in its line up. Currently their product planning side is doing the feasibility studies on whether the market is really wanting this segment as it is clearly shows that SUV is the flavor of the day. But Perodua is also cautious as developing a new model takes at least 24 months and by the time the SUV launches to the market, the SUV fever has subdued.

Besides that, Perodua’s President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk (Dr) Aminar Rashid Salleh also mentioned that the old Perodua plant that currently assembles the Myvi and Alza model will be upgraded to achieve an EEV status plant producing cars with upgrades mainly on the automation side of the plant. 

NEW LAUNCHES: AucNation Synergy Launches Vehicle Inspection Management System (VIMS) For Enhanced Safety, Consistency And Quality Assurance Of Used Vehicles!!!

AucNation Synergy Sdn Bhd (AucNation Synergy), an automotive management solutions provider today announced a Strategic Industry Alliance with the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) during the launch of a new service by AucNation Synergy – the Vehicle Inspection Management System (VIMS). 

Aimed at uplifting the used vehicle industry in Malaysia, the Industry Alliance between AucNation Synergy and MAI will facilitate a comprehensive inspection training programme at the MAI training facility in Bukit Beruntung. In addition, the two organisations will be working closely to identify protocols in current and future offerings that will address the specific needs of Malaysia's used vehicle industry. In essence, this strategic alliance will lead to more streamlined functions, resulting in a more efficient and reliable vehicle inspection and related services in the country. 

Powered by Japan's Automobile Inspection System (AIS) and supported by MAI, VIMS is designed to provide reliable certification on the quality of used and reconditioned cars through comprehensive visual and diagnostic analyses. 

"Our partnership with AIS, a top inspection company for Honda, Toyota, Subaru, Nissan & Mazda in Japan, allows us to leverage on technology and Japanese expertise to provide in-depth analyses and accurate scoring of the inspected vehicles. Through VIMS, we are able to contribute to the industry in an effective and practical manner, while promoting a more reliable and secure trading experience for businesses and consumers. We have invested ," YBhg Dato’ Nik Izani explained. 

VIMS is a web-based inspection which comprises two analyses – Visual Analysis (VA) using a Pen Based Computer (PBC) and Diagnostic Analysis (DA) using the On-Board Diagnostic 2 (OBD 2) device. VA covers checks on the vehicle's main frame, exterior, interior and the basic mechanical components while DA focuses on Health Check on the vehicle's subsystems including engine and transmissions. 

Data from the analyses are then stored on a web server and are easily retrieved when needed. Customers will also receive a VIMS Certificate of Inspection with a 90-day validity within 48 hours to help them make informed decisions in their transactions. The inspection process takes just 30-40 minutes to complete. 

To support VIMS and future offerings that the company will be introducing, AucNation Synergy has established an IT development entity that focuses on software solutions and data management. 

Commenting on MAI’s involvement in this Alliance, YBhg Dato' Madani Sahari said, "MAI actively identifies strategic partners who can harness technologies and expertise to add value to the used vehicle industry in Malaysia. We are pleased that VIMS’ OBD 2 has been introduced into the Malaysian market as an international car diagnostic system with a capacity to run diagnostics on any car brand system, including our national vehicles, minus the risk of malfunction due to system conflict or virus attack. Together with the dedicated inspection training programme, VIMS has the potential to uplift the used and reconditioned car trade in Malaysia, and we look forward to see the results of our collaboration." 

Specifically designed using official manufacturer codes supported in the English Language, the OBD 2 device is an innovative product resultant from the close collaboration between VIMS and AIS as well as DENSO for technology transfer to be used for the first time in Malaysia. 

MAI also explained that the launch of VIMS is in line with the goals of the End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) initiative under the National Automotive Policy 2014, where about 300 inspection centres are required around Malaysia and owners are encouraged to send their vehicles for checks to ensure safety. 

The launch of VIMS is poised to pave the way for greater professionalism within the industry with the collaborative partnership from AIS Japan and AucNation Synergy, the training collaboration with MAI and the support from the Persatuan Pengimport Dan Peniaga Kenderaan Melayu Malaysia (PEKEMA), used car association and financial institutions. Enhanced market confidence and increased job opportunities will lead to the positive growth of Malaysia's used vehicle industry. 

Currently, there are 10 qualified inspectors that was trained in Japan to handle all the inspection based on the guidelines that has been established and these 10 inspectors will focus on servicing the Klang Valley customers at the moment. By September 2017, the services will be expanded outside of Klang Valley mainly establishing their foot hold to Penang and Johor.  

Besides that, through the collaboration with MAI, through the initiative of Advanced Car Workshop Transformation Plan that starts in 2015, fifty three registered car workshop under MAI will be the pioneer workshop that will offer the VIMS services to the public which will start very soon. 

As for the charges to have your car checked by the qualified engineers of AucNation Synergy, the normal charges per car is between RM200 to RM300 but for a limited time only, an introductory price of RM175 is being offered now. 

For more information about VIMS by AucNation Synergy or the training programme with MAI, visit www.aismsia.com.

PRESS RELEASE: Hari Raya Open House At All Toyota Showrooms This Weekend!!!

In conjunction with the Hari Raya celebrations, UMW Toyota Motor would like to extend an invitation for everyone to come join the festivities at its Open House, happening at all Toyota showrooms nationwide. The celebration will be happening between 14 to 16 July, from 9am to 6pm. The event provides the public and an opportunity to view and experience the latest Toyota models available in Malaysia.

There will be a variety of interesting activities at Toyota showrooms, depending on location, for the whole family as well as fun activities for children. Customers can also enjoy Hari Raya delicacies such as ketupat, lemang, rendang and many more.

While enjoying the Raya celebration, customers who are shopping for a new vehicle, UMW Toyota Motor has special deals during the month of July which provide good value including additional accessories. To enjoy these special deals, the new vehicles must be registered by 31 July, 2017 (terms and conditions apply).

The special deals include:

● Cash rebates of up to RM5,000 for the Toyota Camry, Corolla Altis, Vios, Sienta, Innova, Fortuner, Hilux and Avanza;

● Free accessories worth up to RM5,700 for Corolla Altis and RM4,000 for Vios.

● Additional duit Raya rebates of RM500 for Toyota Vios; and

● 5 years of free service for the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire.

(All offers are for selected variants and subject to Terms and Conditions, while stocks last).

Additionally, for those who purchase a new Vios, there are also Value Packages with free accessories such as Digital Video Recorder, USB Charging Port, Autofold Door Mirrors and a first-in-class Panoramic View Monitor.

All purchases of the Toyota Corolla Altis during the month of July will come with a Value Package consisting of a DVD AVX with Reverse Camera, Toyota Premium Security & Solar Film, Digital Video Recorder and Illuminated Scuff Plate.

Additionally, from 1 July until 30 September 2017, there is also buy and win promotion where lucky winners can stand a chance to win a trip to Tokyo Motor Show.

Customers who wish to know more about these offers or to locate the nearest Toyota showroom or service centre can visit toyota.com.my for information. Alternatively, they can also call TOYOTA FREEPHONE: 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682)TOYOTA or send e-mail to customersupport@toyota.com.my.