Assembly Services Sdn. Bhd. rolled out its 1 Millionth Toyota vehicles!!!

On 25th of April 2011, Assembly Services Sdn . Bhd. (ASSB) has reached its milestone of producing one millionth Malaysian assembled Toyota in its plant in Shah Alam and the milestone vehicle was a Toyota Vios TRD Sportivo. Such amazing feat started off from a humble beginning way back 43 years ago and it took more than 30 years to achieved it first 500,000 vehicle and achieving its next 500,000 in a much quicker pace. So far UMW Toyota, the official distributor of Toyota vehicles here in Malaysia has invested more than RM 900 million with RM 460 million has been invested in terms of improving the quality of cars and also its efficiency of the plant.

In the next three years, UMW Toyota has allocated another RM 1 billion of investment with RM 350 million is specially allocated for ASSB. This huge sum of money is one of the investments being made out to get the plant ready to roll out the next generation of Toyota Camry that was expected to be launched in the second quarter of 2012. This new Toyota Camry will not only be for the Malaysian market but it will also be exported to other Asean countries including its current generation Camry manufacturer Thailand. The other chuck of investment will be poured into a new centralized stockyard facility in Bukit Raja, Klang which is due to begin its operation at the end of the year and this facilities is much better than the current facilities in Shah Alam where this new facility will includes a test track, accessory center, body and paint center.

Autobacs Super GT kicksoff at Fuji Speedway - Malaysia Super GT 18~19 June 2011

In a twist of events, the 2011 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 2 in Fuji Speedway is now the season opener of the 2011 SUPER GT Series. This week, the highly anticipated Round 2 FUJI GT 400km RACE will take place on 30 April and 1 May, while Round 1 in Okayama International Circuit is now scheduled for 21st and 22nd May.

Previously, the official test which was scheduled for the Okayama International Circuit on 19th and 20th March was cancelled, and Round 1, scheduled for 2nd and 3rd April was postponed due to the devastating earthquake that hit Japan on March 11.

The Japan 9.0 magnitude earthquake is the strongest earthquake to ever hit Japan. The decision to postpone the official test was made out of respect to the tragic loss of life and property caused by the earthquakes and tsunamis. The GTA also feared that the logistical requirements of the event may impede relief efforts and were concerned for the safety of the spectators, drivers and team personnel in light of possible aftershocks.

The unprecedented earthquake disaster further impacted SUPER GT by causing suspension of testing and events for about one and a half months since the quake. Usually, teams spend this time building the base for upcoming season by collecting tire and machine data and enhancing communication among new team members as well as drivers in pre-season, but they could not run their cars at all during the period this year (except the shakedown of newly introduced cars).

In contemporary racing, teams put their effort in collecting data to simulate their strategy before taking on the actual race. But for this season, with data collection at zero, all teams will have to battle off the cuff, possibly resulting in increased unpredictability and errors than usual. Tires may lose grip suddenly or cars may run out of gas just before the finish. In this race, you really never know what will happen.

Being unable to do any testing up to this point, how will teams take on the battle? It would be interesting to see especially the new comers to the series and the teams with new cars, new drivers, and new changes. What about the race itself?

The lack of data is still a huge concern with the teams, which means that the data accumulated in Round 2 should become the significant factor. How promptly can a team respond to a sudden change in circumstances? Adaptability may become the key for winning the race in Fuji.

“We predict that Round 2 will be a thrilling race from start to finish”, said SUPER GT Round 3 race organizer, TJ Chin of JP Performance Motorsports.

JP Performance Motorsports (JPM) acquired the rights to hold the 2011 and 2012 Malaysian round at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC). SUPER GT Round 3 will take place at SIC on 18 and 19 June.

TJ added, “As the Malaysian round is the only round held outside of Japan, we hope that the SUPER GT will boost Malaysian tourism as well as strengthen ties between Malaysia and Japan”.

The SUPER GT, the fastest Super Grand Touring car race in the world offers a whole list of fun activities for the whole family. Mini concerts, a carnival city, GT queens, cultural exchange performances, and the pit walkabout, where fans can get up close and personal with their favourite drivers and teams are just a few activities which will take place at Sepang this June.

Tickets for the SUPER GT in Sepang are priced at RM100 (for two day Grand Stand passes). JPM is currently offering an early bird price of RM 88 per ticket. The SUPER GT tickets can be conveniently purchased at all 7-11 outlets nationwide. For more information on the SUPER GT or on how to get your tickets, log on to www.supergt.com.my / www.facebook.com/SUPERGT.my

Auto Insider Malaysia will be back soon!!! Stay tune

Dear readers of Auto Insider Malaysia, if you have notice recently, I have not updated this blog frequently as usual as this is due to my health reason. I was down with a very bad sore throat and cough since 2 weeks ago, I'm still having this bad cough that I need to take nebuliser just now at the local clinic. As for this blog, I will have regular updates soon. Stay tune and have an enjoyable weekend.

UMW Toyota Motors to review production plans in Malaysia till June 2011!!

The Great East Japan earthquake has affected a number of industries across the world, including the automotive industry.

UMW Toyota Motor would like to announce that there could be some disruptions in parts supplies from Japan. In preparation for this, we wish to inform that we will be making adjustment to our production from 25th April to 3rd June, 2011. In addition to the implemented cuts in overtime, we will be moving to a 1-shift operation from 25th April. A production plan from 6th June will be made in line with the recovery of parts supply.

Our commitment to our customers remains topmost in our priority. The company has communicated and will update all its customers individually concerning their vehicle delivery status.

“UMW Toyota Motor regrets for any inconvenience caused especially to our customers. We are closely monitoring on the parts supply situation in Japan and will provide any updates or information in a timely manner. We sincerely hope for the quickest possible recovery and appreciate our customers and business partners understanding during these difficult times” said En. Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor.

Peugeot is no.1 European brand in Malaysia!!!

For the first time in history, Peugeot has claimed the top spot among European makes in Malaysia. In the first quarter ending March 31, 2011, Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot marque in Malaysia, sold 1,538 units which represented a sterling 167% jump from the 576 units sold in the same period in 2010.

Peugeot's sales volume in the first quarter gave the French lion a leading market share of 26% among European brands in the market, according to the latest figures released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

“This is a milestone for the marque in Malaysia and for Nasim after being appointed distributor for Peugeot in 2008,” said SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, CEO of Nasim. “We thank our customers, dealers, vendors and partners all over the country, for having faith in our revival of the brand. This could not have been done without the support of the Malaysian government, and the decisive move by Automobiles Peugeot in making Malaysia their right-hand-drive production hub".

He said the sales volume recorded in the first quarter of this year by Nasim are in line with the company's annual sales target of 7,000 units. He added the company will launch two more models this year that will help Nasim achieve its annual sales target.

Peugeot’s most popular model in the first quarter, the 308 contributed 38% of sales, selling 588 units (Q1 2010: 458). This represented an increase of 28% while the 207 sedan sold 537 units (35% of sales). Another 15% of Nasim's sales in the first quarter came from the 3008, with 237 units. Peugeot vehicles sold in Malaysia are manufactured at Naza Automotive Manufacturing in Gurun, Kedah. Nasim registered 2,562 units in 2010.

“With demand for European makes on the rise in Malaysia, Peugeot is now being viewed in a different light”, explained Dato’ Samson Anand George, chief operating officer of Nasim. “We are optimistic about the future and will introduce five new sales and service outlets, increasing our network size to 23 nationwide. Our Q1 sales result, along with the upcoming introduction of two new models puts us on the right track towards achieving our sales target of 7000 units this year.”

Peugeot vehicles sold in Malaysia are manufactured at Naza Automotive Manufacturing in Gurun, Kedah. The plant is preparing to roll out a C-segment sedan codenamed T73. The plan is to make 60,000 units of the T73 over a five-year period from 2012 to 2016, with some 60% set aside for export to right hand drive markets such as Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand and right-hand-drive countries in Africa .

“Exports will eventually outnumber domestic sales, and as a brand we will be actually contributing positively to the automotive trade balance”, emphasised Nasarudin.

source: Nasim Sdn. Bhd.

Toyota Suppliers' Club Malaysia donates to quake and tsunami victims!!!

The Toyota Suppliers’ Club Malaysia has contributed RM 84,250 to Japan Red Cross Society through the Japanese Chamber of Trade & Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM) and the Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur to help the victims of the Japan earthquake and tsunami. The Chairman, Mr. Winston Koay Teik Hock presented the donation to Mr. Takashi Hibi, President of Japanese Chamber of Trade & Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM) today. Also present at the ceremony was Mr. Hideki Omae, Plant/Executive Director, Assembly Services Sdn Bhd (ASSB), UMW Toyota Motor.

The fundraising activity generated great support from 26 renowned suppliers from Toyota Suppliers’ Club Malaysia. Chairman of Toyota Suppliers’ Club Malaysia, Mr. Winston Koay said, “We greatly admire the dignity and indomitable spirit of the Japanese people and Japan as a nation. We hope that our humble contribution from Toyota Suppliers’ Club will help to ease the suffering of people and rebuilding of lives as well as the affected areas in Japan from the earthquake and tsunami disaster”.

Toyota Suppliers’ Club develops educational programmes such as the Toyota Production System (TPS) Joint Kaizen Programme, Quality Control Circle Programme and Local/Overseas Study Visits. The Club also supports a number of charitable fundraising programmes. These charitable activities are organised through their many social events.

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Edaran Tan Chong Motors initiates service campaign for selected models!!!

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) has initiated a service campaign for 32,100 units of Nissan Grand Livina produced from December 2007 to June 2010 and 9,300 units of Nissan Latio and Latio Sport produced from May 2007 to June 2010 in Malaysia.

ETCM has recently received some cases in which the fuel meter may not show accurate lower reading position of fuel gauge. Upon investigation, it was found that such incidents may have been caused by electrochemical migration on the resistor-card in the fuel gauge being affected by a combination of environmental aspect, fuel variation and etc.

In the meantime to avoid inconvenience, we would like to advise all affected Nissan car owners to constantly keep their vehicle’s fuel level at half tank or more pending replacement of the parts.

ETCM’s Executive Director, Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng said, “Customers are always our top priority. We initiated this service campaign to cover all the vehicles produced during the mentioned period even though not all the vehicles may be affected. All labour and replacement parts for this less than an hour exercise will be free-of-charge.”

The affected Nissan car owners may contact our nearest Tan Chong Express Auto Service Centre or Customer Service Hotline at Toll FREE line: 1800-88-3838 for a service appointment or it can be done during the scheduled maintenance

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Kia Forte won Frost & Sullivan Excellence Award!!!

Naza Kia Malaysia’s Forte has been awarded Debut Model of the Year at the 2011 Frost & Sullivan Malaysia Excellence Awards.

The award is presented to models launched between November 2009 to November 2010 that made a significant impact in the market with a substantial sales volume and positive market acceptance.

“Since Its launch in November 2009, the Forte has made waves in the market and has sparked a new interest and desirability for the Kia brand. Today’s award is the sixth accolade the Forte has won in Malaysia since its launch.

“We Recently introduced the Forte 6-Speed which has made a great car even better and we believe this model will be poised for more honours this year,” said SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Joint Group Executive Chairman of the Naza Group and CEO of Naza Kia Malaysia.

Since its launch in November 2009, Naza Kia Malaysia has sold a total of 6,878 units of the Forte as at the end of the first quarter this year.
Frost & Sullivan consultant for Asia Pacific Automotive and Transportation Practice, Ahmad Faridz Dzulkarnain, said the Forte broke the monotony in its segment by offering a very bold and dynamic European styling vehicle packed with high technological features and fitment level at a very attractive price point.

“The Market acceptance of this model was phenomenal based on its sales volume of more than 5,200 units and capturing around 2.5% of the C-segment market share in 2010. The other newly launched C-segment sedans only sold less than 2,000 units in 2010.

“The Competition in this segment is considered the toughest as the C-segment midsized sedan is the most popular segment and accounts for a major portion of Malaysia’s annual sales volume,” he said.

Among the criteria which the Forte was evaluated upon included sales volume for 2010, market share within its own segment for 2010, price points, key marketing strategy in 2010, key selling points of the nominated model, key competitive advantages and significant achievement for 2010.

New passenger vehicles that were launched between November 2009 and November 2010 are considered for the Debut Model of the Year award which includes passenger cars, MPVs, SUVs and sports cars.
Ahmad Faridz said one of the many unique selling points of the Forte was its exterior styling sculpted by chief designer, Peter Schreyer.

“Besides The dynamic styling, this model also offers a range of fuel economy features behind the 1.6L and 2.0L power plant variants. The aerodynamics of the exterior has resulted in one of the lowest drag value in its class; hence further promoting fuel efficiency,” he said.

Ahmad Faridz added that another unique selling point of the Forte was the various luxury and safety features in the car such as a Start-Stop Button, Smart Key System, Rear Parking Assist System, six airbags for the 2.0SX variant, motor driven power steering and electronic chromic mirror for the price below the RM100,000 mark.

The new Forte 6-Speed, which was recently launched by Naza Kia Malaysia, features several new premium features that are set to further strengthen the award-winning sedan’s position in the market.
The enhanced Forte is now mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic functionality as well as steering mounted paddle shifters. The on-the-road (OTR) price of the 1.6EX variant is at RM78,800 while the OTR prices for the 1.6SX and 2.0SX are at RM85,800 and 97,800 respectively.
“The Forte 6-Speed also features a host of other premium specifications such as a rear-view camera, LED-turn signals on the side mirrors which are now electrically foldable and Bluetooth functionality.
“These Features are set to further increase the car’s popularity in the market this year,” said Datuk Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, chief operating officer of Naza Kia Malaysia.

The new features such as the six-speed transmission, integrated LED turn signals on the side mirrors, new grille design will be available on the 1.6 EX and SX variants as well as the 2.0 SX. The steering-mounted paddle shifters, rear view camera, electronically foldable side mirrors and Bluetooth functionality will only be available in the 1.6 SX and 2.0 SX variants. The new Forte 6-Speed comes in Clear White, Bright Silver, Titanium Silver, Metal Bronze, Spicy Red and Ebony Black.

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BMW teasing BMW M5 Concepts ahead of its reveal in Shanghai Motor Show!!

This teaser video showing the BMW Concept M5 that will soon to be reveal at the Shanghai Motor Show which will be held from 19^th of April 2011 till 28^th of April 2011. This new F10 BMW M5 Concepts looks very much production version ready and its classic quad tailpipes and it’s ferociously looking overall looks. Enjoy this teaser video showing ahead of its launch.

Ferrari FF speeding ahead the hill of Italy!!

Here is another video showing the Ferrari FF tearing the hills near Brunico of Italy. This motoring journalist apparently strap a video on top of his head and captured all the moments that he have behind the mighty prancing horse. Enjoy the video as I do and make sure to push the volume to the max and enjoy the melodious sound of this FF engine note.

Infiniti luxury brand will be here in Malaysia in 4th Quarter through Inspired Motor Sdn Bhd!!

Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, announced today that it plans to introduce its range of performance vehicles to Malaysia in the 4th quarter of 2011.

Infiniti was the fastest-growing import luxury brand in the United States last year and is expanding rapidly across the globe. The Malaysian introduction follows Western Europe, select South American and Asia Pacific markets, most recently in Jakarta, Indonesia. Last two months it also announced Mexico, Australia and Singapore as forthcoming markets for the brand.

"As part of our worldwide expansion, we are very excited to launch Infiniti in Malaysia and welcome newly established joint venture Inspired Motor Sdn Bhd to our luxury brand," said Toru Saito, Infinti’s Corporate Vice President. "Within the year, the promise of luxury vehicles with a unique combination of inspired performance, attentive hospitality and unparalleled quality will become a reality for Malaysian customers, who we know are receptive to exclusive brands.”

Within the year, Malaysian luxury car buyers will be able to purchase and service Infiniti automobiles at the brand new Infiniti Centre operated by Inspired Motor Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Edaran Tan Chong Motor and Auto Dunia, which will be strategically located in Kuala Lumpur.

Dato’ Dr Ang Bon Beng, Executive Director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd said “The impending arrival of Infiniti in Malaysia comes at a time when the luxury automotive market in Malaysia is experiencing tremendous growth. Last year, the segment grew by 40%. Suffice to say, we are thrilled to be in the position to offer luxury car buyers in Malaysia a distinctive brand that epitomizes luxury performance.”

“The Infiniti model range will comprise of sport crossovers, sport coupes and performance sedans. Our Kuala Lumpur Infiniti Centre is committed to exceptional hospitality throughout the entire period of ownership,” commented Azman Badrillah, Director of Auto Dunia Sdn Bhd.

The news comes just weeks after Infiniti announced a major partnership with the Red Bull Racing F1 team, and ahead of this weekend’s Malaysian Grand Prix. Formula One World Champion and Red Bull Racing driver Sebastian Vettel is looking forward to competing in Infiniti’s latest market: “Racing in Malaysia is like doing some challenging sports in a sauna! It's going to be tough for the drivers because of the heat and the extreme humidity. It’s one of the biggest tests of a driver’s fitness during the whole year, but that’s why I did all my training in the winter.

Car-wise it’s quite demanding due to the temperature. I like the circuit, as there are lots of different combinations of corners and it’s very challenging. It’s great to see that Infiniti will be bringing its unique style and driving luxury to this country – I think they will prove very popular with the Malaysian people.”

source: Edaran Tan Chong Sdn. Bhd.

Peugeot test drive event this weekend brought to you by Nasim Sdn. Bhd!!!

Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, will host nationwide test drives for the 207, 308 Turbo, 407 as well as other Peugeot models this weekend from April 8 to April 10. The nationwide three-day test drive event for all Peugeot models will be held at all Nasim’s branches and authorised dealers in the country from 10 am to 6 pm.

Customers who participate in the test drive event and those who place a booking will be rewarded with mystery gifts while refreshments will be served to all customers who visit Nasim’s branches and authorised dealers during the test drive weekend. Activities for children will also be available at selected locations.

Customers will also be able to test drive the 3008 SUV at all of Nasim’s branches during the three-day event while the luxurious 5008 will be available for test drive at Nasim Glenmarie on April 8, Nasim Bangsar on April 9 and Nasim Ampang on April 10.

For the 207, customers who purchase the popular sedan from April 1, 2011 to April 30, 2011 will be eligible for a low interest rate of 1.88% (terms and conditions apply). This campaign is only valid with EON Bank. In addition to this campaign, new 207 customers from March 1 to April 30, 2011 will receive a three-year or a 60,000 km free-serving package (whichever comes first). This campaign has received overwhelming response from the Malaysian public since its launch in March.

With this promotion, the ownership cost of the 207 will be greatly reduced thus increasing the appeal of the sedan among Malaysians. With an on-the-road (OTR) price of RM72,888, the new 207 features an array of premium features and enhanced drivability.

Besides the new 207, customers who purchase the 308 Turbo from April 1, 2011 to April 30, 2011 will also be eligible for interest rates of 1.88% from Affin Bank (terms and conditions apply). The new and enhanced 308 Turbo is priced at RM118,888 OTR.

Meanwhile, customers who purchase the luxurious and sporty 407 from March 1, 2011 to April 30, 2011 will be eligible for or a low interest rate of 1.33% (terms and conditions apply) from Affin Bank. This offer is applicable for Peninsular Malaysia customers only. East Malaysian customers will be eligible for an interest rate of 1.35% from Affin Bank (terms and conditions apply) when they purchase the 407 within the same period. The 407 starts at RM128,888 OTR.

For more information on the three-day test drive event and promotions of the 207, 308 Turbo and 407, please call 1-800-88-6292.

source: Nasim Sdn. Bhd.

Audi RS3 Sportback tearing the road of Monaco!!!

This is a very nice movie shot of the all new Audi RS3 Sportback being filmed by members of press during the media test drive organize by Audi on the roads of Principality of Monaco. From the look of the video, the RS3 does have a very nice and linear acceleration and this can be seen when the car accelerate out of a bend. In terms of handling out, seems like Audi has done a good job in tuning the suspension of the car for more grip on the road.

The Audi RS3 Sportback was powered by the same 2.5 litre turbocharged five-cylinder that is currently powering the Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster model, with the engine is mated to Audi famous Quattro system and mated with Audi Seven Speed DSG Gearbox. The engine produce a massive 340hp and 450Nm of torque which can push to century sprint in 4.6 seconds until it can reach it limited speed limiter at 250km/h. Enjoy the video as I do.

Source: Carscoop

Volkswagen to introduce the new generation Beetle on April 18!!!

In just a few weeks, Volkswagen will write another chapter in the history of an automotive icon. On April 18th, the Beetle will be showcased to the public in its best remake – and with spectacular world debut staging. Volkswagen will be celebrating the new Beetle almost simultaneously as a world premiere in Shanghai with MTV’s VJ guest hosting an exclusive MTV Sound System followed by World Stage events in New York and Berlin.

Appearing at the World Stage Event in New York will be The Black Eyed Peas performing hits from their latest album The Beginning as well as some of their most loved material from the past at Terminal 5, and in Berlin (E-Werk) the MTV World Stage Party, will be headlined by Belgian duo 2manydjs performing a DJ set. The World Stage in New York, will be the most widely distributed World Stage event to date and highlights of both events will be available on www.worldstage.mtv.com.

The World Stage show from New York City will be streamed live (excluding the UK) and highlights from the show will be broadcast later on MTV channels around the world.

"The Beetle is an icon of the automotive world, just like MTV is an icon of the music world. In the context of this marketing alliance, we are taking the new Volkswagen directly to our customers and fans of the Volkswagen brand – and we are doing it globally. We are certain that the car’s one-of-a-kind styling combined with the latest technology will be very well received by customers," said Luca de Meo, Director of Marketing for the Volkswagen Group and for Volkswagen Brand Passenger Cars.

The new Beetle’s exterior reinterprets the silhouette of the famous Volkswagen Beetle and combines stylistic elements borrowed from the original with the latest technology. This guarantees Beetle drivers a lot of driving fun and individuality.

MTV is the world’s premier youth entertainment brand. With a global reach of more than a half-billion households, MTV is the cultural home of the millennial generation, music fans and artists, and a pioneer in creating innovative programming for young people. MTV reflects and creates pop culture with its award-winning content built around compelling storytelling, music discovery and activism across TV, online and mobile and its online hub is the leading destination for music, news and pop culture.

source: Volkswagen Media Press Release

spy pic source: Carpix Espionage

Nasim Sdn. Bhd. in the brink of introducing the all new Peugeot 3008HYbrid4!!!

This is a very interesting piece of news coming from the Nasim Sdn. Bhd. In the latest press release Nasim has indicated that the Nasim may bring in the latest engine edition to Peugeot line up which is the Hybrid4 using both diesel engine and also an electric motor which is having best of both worlds to achieve the highest fuel consumption. If you have not tried the latest generation of diesel engine, you should test it yourself first before handing over any remarks or judgement without experiencing it first.

Previously, I have tasted the beauty of diesel power plant through the BMW 320d guise which has totally changed my perception towards a diesel engine. The torque delivery is enormous and it can be too intoxicating to drive. If I do have the money to burn the pocket, my next car will definitely a new generation of diesel engine, with its optimize fuel consumption, accelerated power and torque delivery, no wonder the European just loves the diesel engine. With new Peugeot has gunned in the latest edition of diesel engine here in Malaysia, Malaysian will finally have a choice of diesel engine power plant that can suite your budget.

Please read the rest of press release from Nasim Sdn. Bhd.

Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, is studying the possibility of bringing in the new 3008 HYbrid4, the world’s first full diesel hybrid, to Malaysia this year.

Its CEO, Mr SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin said Automobiles Peugeot is currently conducting extensive tests in France on the 3008 HYbrid4 with the Euro 2M specification diesel that is available in Malaysia.

“So far the tests have yielded positive results but there are still more tests to be done. Once we can conclude that the 3008 HYbrid4 will have no problems running on the Euro 2M specification diesel, we will look into launching it in Malaysia. The 3008 HYbrid4 offers remarkable fuel efficiency without sacrificing power,” he said.

The 3008 HYbrid4 features a 2.0-litre diesel engine which produces 163 bhp and an electric motor that produces 37 bhp for a combined total output of 200 bhp. The full consumption of the 3008 Hybrid4 is just 3.8-litres per 100 km.

Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister of International Trade and Industry, had the privilege of being one of the first Malaysians to test the 3008 HYbrid4 during the latter’s visit to PSA Peugeot-Citroen’s headquarters in Paris last week.

He was accompanied by SM Nasarudin, His Excellency General Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Zainal, Ambassador of Malaysia to France and Arwa Beaulieu, Automobiles Peugeot’s product manager for the 3008 HYbrid4.

Mustapa, who was leading a Malaysian trade and investment mission in Paris, also met Mr Philippe Varin, Chairman of the Managing Board of PSA Peugeot Citroen who briefed the former on the carmaker’s plans for the Asean region by using Malaysia as a production hub.

The 3008 HYbrid4 features a maximum torque of 500 Nm with 300 Nm from the diesel engine and 200 Nm from the rear electric motor.

The SUV features four different operating modes, including a zero emission vehicle mode whereby it runs only on the electric motor, a four-wheel drive mode and a STOP-START function which places the diesel engine in standby mode when the vehicle is at a standstill at a stop light or in a traffic jam. This in turn reduces fuel consumption in the 3008 HYbrid4.

The 3008 HYbrid4 was recently awarded “All Wheel-Drive Innovation of the Year” by German motoring publication, Autobild Allrad. 
source: Nasim Sdn. Bhd.
 

Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) launched the Nissan "Drive Me Cra2y" campaign!!!

Yesterday, I was invited by Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) to witness the launch of “Drive Me Cra2y” campaign where this campaign is to reward and bring Nissan fans closer with a series of exciting advertising and promotional activities through the year.

As being theme Cra2y, last night event was full of wacky character and a host of games has been put up to fill the nights of this “Drive Me Cra2y” campaign. Besides that ETCM yesterday proudly present a package to fly on the A380 Business Class to Paris, France which includes a three nights stay at a five star hotel for two for Mr San Mun Sow 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”.

If you are wondering if this is the first time Nissan promoting such event, you will be wrong, actually this is the second time Nissan having this kind of campaign, the first time is the “I’m Nissan Cra2y” which was launched back in 2009 and this sequel is further enhanced with more luxury prizes worth more than half a million ringgit to be won.

In the last campaign, the contest was only opened to Nissan’s customers but for this year, ETCM are back with “Drive Me Cra2y” and to offer everyone the Nissan experience as well as a chance to win a Nissan vehicle by just test driving any Nissan vehicles.

To join the “Drive Me Cra2y” campaign which started on 1st of March 2011 and ending on 31st of March 2012, one will just need to come to test drive any Nissan vehicle at Nissan/ETCM showrooms or participating authorised dealership within the stipulated contest period. By doing that, he or she will get one entry for the contest and six entries for those who purchased a Nissan vehicle.

Contestants will have the chance of winning a Nissan Grand Livina 1.6(A) Comfort on the first draw period ending 31st July 2011, a Nissan Sylphy 2.0L Comfort on the second draw period starting from 1st August 2011 till end of November 2011. The final draw period from 1st December 2011 till 31st March 2012, a Nissan Teana 2.0L Luxury is to be won. However, the lucky winner will be invited for a bonus draw and if he is lucky enough, he will drive away a Nissan 370Z Coupe instead.

In conjunction with this campaign, there will be more fun and exciting contest and activities which will be carried out in phases via multiple touch points, especially in the digital platform during the campaign period.