Lamborghini Murcielago Streetversion

2008 Lexus GS 450h

The Lexus GS 450h, first introduced in April 2006 as a 2007 model, remains the only hybrid-powered performance luxury sport sedan in its segment. Based on the new-generation GS platform and featuring Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, the GS 450h offers V8-like performance with greater fuel efficiency.

"While others talk about plans to introduce hybrid-powered luxury models, Lexus has become a leader in this category," said Jim Farley, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "With three hybrid models – each with its own distinct application of Lexus Hybrid Drive – the brand is offering this in-demand technology in some of today's most aspirational luxury vehicles."

The Lexus GS 450h carries a MRSP of $54,900 , and returns nearly 30-percent better fuel efficiency than some V8 models, with EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city/25 mpg highway/23 mpg combined. The GS 450h is certified as a Super-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV).

Fuel Economics

Cost to Drive 25 Miles
$3.52

Fuel to Drive 25 Miles
1.09 gal

Cost of a Fill-up
$50.16

Miles on a Tank
356 miles

Tank Size
17.2 gal

Annual Fuel Cost*
$2114


For 2008, the unique GS 450h shares the front style refreshing of the GS 350 and GS 460 models, including revised front fascias with a new front bumper and lower intake design and a new chrome grille surround. All GS models gain side view mirror turn signals, and the GS 450h adds a hybrid-exclusive exterior color, Black Opal Mica, and also gains additional blue hybrid highlights.

The 2008 GS instrument panel has been revised, and a new brushed-aluminum shift-plate surround and wood-trim door switch plates accentuate the interior elegance. New interior choices include light gray leather trim and dark gray wood trim. A VDIM cutoff switch has also been added to allow the driver to disengage the stability system when appropriate.

With its advanced technology, high performance and indulgent luxury, the rear-wheel-drive 2008 GS 450h is the premium model in the GS series. In addition to the GS 450h, Lexus also offers the RX 400h luxury utility vehicle and the new-for-2008 LS 600h L flagship hybrid luxury sedan. In addition to boosting performance and fuel efficiency while lowering emissions, Lexus Hybrid Drive technology also further elevates the brand's renowned smooth, quiet operation.

The GS 450h's unique version of the Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain combines a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine with a compact, permanent magnet electric motor – all driving the rear wheels. The hybrid powertrain collectively produces 340 horsepower and can effortlessly accelerate the GS 450h from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.

Just as impressive as the GS 450h's acceleration from a stop is how quickly and powerfully torque is delivered during mid-range acceleration. The hybrid system's electric-drive motor delivers maximum torque immediately upon demand. This unique power-delivery characteristic is most noticeable, and most useful, during 30-to-50 mph passing and in traffic-merging maneuvers.

Responsive Handling and Advanced Dynamics

The GS 450h matches its powerful acceleration with responsive handling while maintaining the ultra-comfortable ride that is synonymous with the Lexus brand. Double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension systems endow the GS 450h with engaging handling performance. Like the V8-powered GS 460 model, the GS 450h is equipped as standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), a driver-selectable shock absorber damping system. The standard 18 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels have a finish that is unique to the GS 450h and are equipped with 245/40R18 Z-rated summer performance tires; all-season run-flat tires are available.

An optional Active Power Stabilizer system helps to further reduce body sway during cornering. The system uses an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) to calculate the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by front and rear electric-powered actuators.

The GS 450h also showcases the brand's highest level of dynamic handling technology: the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that goes beyond the capability of other stability and traction-control systems. VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle slide while cornering and then help to automatically correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver.

VDIM integrates Electric Power Steering (EPS), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), and Traction Control (TRAC).

"Full Hybrid" Powertrain

A "full hybrid," the GS 450h is capable of operating in gas-only or electric-only modes, or a combination of the two. One of a new generation of Lexus engines, the gasoline V6 uses a dual fuel-injection system that combines the benefits of direct injection with those of port injection, and an Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i). Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) operates on the intake and exhaust valves to further enhance power and torque across a broad engine speed range.

The GS 450h hybrid powertrain uses two motor-generators, MG1 and MG2 (the drive motor). Each performs specific functions and can operate as both a motor and a generator, although MG1 is used as a starter motor and provides no motive force. The engine-driven generator (MG1) can charge the battery pack or provide additional power to MG2 as needed.

A 288-volt DC Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack is installed behind the rear seat area. The battery's power is directed through a "boost converter" that can efficiently raise voltage to a maximum 650V DC. An inverter changes this to AC, providing its elevated power to the 147-kW electric motor, which turns as high as 14,400 rpm. The trunk also contains a 12-volt auxiliary battery that powers various vehicle systems, including audio and navigation.

Unique Hybrid Transmission

Power from the gas engine and electric drive motor (MG2) is distributed to the rear drive wheels via a planetary gear-type Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT). This special transmission, which eliminates specific gear ratios, features a two-speed torque-multiplication device that allows drivers to select from among three driving modes: power, normal and snow. "Normal" provides the smoothest operation and is ideal for city or suburban driving; "power" sharpens accelerator pedal response and "snow" mode softens accelerator pedal response making it easier to travel on slippery road surfaces.

The ECVT consists of a motor generator, motive power-dividing mechanism, two-stage motor-reduction device, electrically powered oil pump and hydraulic control system. The two-stage torque-multiplication device varies the gear ratio in two stages by controlling a planetary gear and two wet brakes, similar to the way a conventional automatic transmission operates.

This configuration allows the electric drive motor to operate in high or low ranges, with seamless transitions between the two. MG2 can therefore contribute power not just for acceleration, but at higher cruising speeds as well.

The driver will not feel the GS 450h's transmission doing its work but will be keenly aware of its benefits in the powerful and uncannily smooth acceleration and passing performance. Since the GS 450h is driven solely by its electric motors when starting, traveling slowly, and during low-load driving, the noise level is about half that of a conventional gasoline engine, enhancing the luxury experience.

Latest Launches in Global Automobile Market

Plenty of new cars are being launched in the Automobiles market in very little time. The Frankfurt Show, for example will display the latest Mercedes Benz S-Class to revive its fading image for superior quality.China, in the mean time will get into manufacturing automobiles big time and already three different models have been made for display at the Motor Show. Local firms in China are manufacturing cars and going by the statistics,it will soon be a trend for China to export their low-cost, high-efficiency cars to United States and other countries.


The first Chinese cars are already gearing up for the European roads. Today, high petrol prices and fuel-guzzling SUVs surround the global automotive industry. North America, Europe and Japan have over-capacity that continues to sap profitability. The automotive industry is set for major expansion once the motorization of China and India begins large scale.

Some of the latest cars launched this year are the 2008 Audi A5 and the Audi TT Coupe. The variations of the Audi have a common element of elegance and comfort. It's sporty, strong and safe. The engine is remarkably designed for fuel efficiency.


Bentley has launched the latest in state of the art technology- the Bentley Brooklands and Bentley Continental GT Speed. The Bentley line of cars is known for being a collector's item. From being classy to being sassy, these cars have excellent horsepower, veneers, the cabin and leather hides. The Bentley models ensure safety and immense comfortability factor.

The BMW 5 Series, BMW X6 and BMW Z4 are some of the major cars that have been launched by the BMW line. Each is a class apart with two binding elements which is elegance and performance. The Buick LaCrosse is one of the other cars with excellent engine, chassis, accessories, interiors and exteriors. The Cadillac CTS and the DTS Platinum Edition are amazing series from the Cadillac brand. The Cadillac series has superlative engine and performance with special features such as LED illumination and special white light on key areas throughput the cabin.

The Chevrolet HHR SS is another masterpiece from the house of Chevrolet. This is a take off from the 1949 Chevrolet Suburban and has a cargo-carrying capacity with 57.7 cubic feat in the passenger version and 62.7 cubic feet in the panel. The Saturn Astra is a remarkable car that is not just amazing on the road but also amazing inside. Astra achieves refined style with high quality materials, appealing textures and soft-touch surfaces throughout. Excellent features like a three-gauge instrument cluster, a rake, a telescoping steering column and available dual panel sunroof that renders Astra its unique ambience.

Other premium line of cars will be launched from the house of Dodge, Ford, Mercedes Benz, Honda, Mitsubishi, Jaguar, Pontiac, Skoda, Lexus, Volkswagen, etc. The automobiles industry has already grown leaps and bounds and the next few years will see a sharp rise in the production of consumer-friendly, environment friendly and fuel-efficient cars. More cars are going to line up for display from some of the best global brands to wait and watch for.

TechArt TECHART GTstreet RS TECHART GTstreet Cabriolet tuning Porsche 911

The sport auto Tuner Grand Prix in Hockenheim is the world’s biggest performance competition in the car tuning industry. With driver Jörg Hardt at the wheel, TECHART won the 2008 competition with its 700 PS / 515 kW TECHART GTstreet RS, produced in small series based on the Porsche GT2.

With a lap time of 1.06,811 minutes for the short course of the Hockenheim circuit, the TECHART driver Jörg Hardt won the GT class . TECHART’s overall victory at the sport auto Tuner Grand Prix 2008 again demonstrated the company’s unique positioning on the car enhancement market.

The specialists from Leonberg-Höfingen were able to draw on more than 20 years of experience when preparing the vehicle and modifying the Porsche vehicles from Zuffenhausen. In order to participate in the sport auto Tuner Grand Prix 2008, the black/white TECHART GTstreet RS was required to obtain certification to prove the vehicle’s road-worthiness. It was also required to meet the specific requirements set by editors of the sport auto magazine.

In addition to its powerful TECHART biturbo engine, with an output of 700 hp / 515 kW at 7,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 860 Nm at 4,500 revs, the height-adjustable sports suspension and tires were crucial to securing success in this competition.

The TECHART sports suspension was developed in combination with the TECHART engineers and with vehicle experts from Bilstein so as to be specially adapted to the short course at the Hockenheim circuit. Jörg Hardt, who is one of the most successful drivers in the Porsche Carrera Cup, was very enthusiastic about the vehicle: “The car was prepared to perfection”.

In addition to its overall victory, TECHART Automobildesign also clocked up an additional success in the Cabrio category: Jörg Hardt drove the 580 PS / 441 kW TECHART GTstreet Cabriolet to success in the Cabriolet class with a lap time of 1:10,382 minutes.

Given the tropical temperatures of the Whitsun weekend at the Hockenheim motodrome, it was crucial to use the perfect kind of tire. TECHART’s technology partner, Michelin, contributed its high performance tires Michelin Sport Cup Plus to it.
The light single-component TECHART formula III light metal wheel rims, sized 8.5Jx20 at the front and 12Jx20 at the back, were fitted with Michelin tires in the size 245/30 ZR 20 for the front axle and 315/25 ZR 20 for the back.

2009 Ford Focus S Sedan

Volkswagen setting up a joint venture with Varta for its upcoming electric cars

According to the latest reports, it appears that Volkswagen is planning a partnership with Varta Microbattery GmbH in order to develop batteries for use in electric cars.
Click Here!
The four-year project aims to undertake research and development of lithium-ions battery because the manufacturer wants to make them more competitive in terms of technology and price but they still need the approval by the German Cartel Office.

The new E-Up! Concept which was recently showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show will be the first car to receive these batteries in 2013, when Volkswagen want to launch it on the streets. For those who don’t know, this is not the first partnership for the German manufacturer, Vw is already working with Toshiba, Sanyo and China’s BYD on battery technology.

New car sales jump by 6 %

One in four of August's 67,006 registrations were bought through the scrappage scheme, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders.

It is the second month in a row that new car sales have risen following a 2.4% increase in July, the first for 15 months.

The real test will come this month following the launch of the new 59 plate.

The Society's chief executive Paul Everitt said it was clear the scrappage scheme - which gives buyers £2,000 when they trade in an old motor - was working and urged minis-ternot to stop it prematurely. Despite the pick-up, last month's sales were still more than 10,500 down on August 2007 and 15 per cent below the 78,800 market average between 1999 and 2008.

Mr Everitt said: "With consumer and business confi-dencstill fragile, there remain significant risks ahead. It is essential that these early signs of recovery are sustained into 2010."

But Howard Archer, economist at Global Insight, fears the true benefits to the UK economy could be limited.

He said consumers buying new cars will cut spending on other areas. Mr Archer also pointed out most cars bought under the scheme were foreign and warned sales were likely to fall back once the subsidy was withdrawn.

Latest Proton Car - Proton Pendera

Received an email today and was surprised it is a NEW Proton Pendera Pictures. I was like WOW not bad Nice design and very sporty. Thou i am no longer a PROTON car owner but i think this one very nice it was stated the car price around RM 63,898.00 but i don’t know how true is the email.

But For those who wanted to take a look at the new Proton pendera Sporty Car..

1939 Maybach SW38 Spohn Sport Roadster

1939 Maybach SW38 Spohn Sport Roadster
German car manufacturer Maybach existed for a relatively brief period of time (1921-1941), yet managed to build more than its share of superlative automobiles. Considered a somewhat less flashy rival to Mercedes-Benz, Maybachs still had plenty of style and performance. The 1939 Maybach SW38 Spohn Sport Roadster is one of the most beautiful Maybachs ever, with thoroughly modern technology such as an electrically welded and cruciform-braced chassis, and fully independent coil suspension. Classic cars and vehicles like this were featured at the 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

Labels: Maybach

ferari

2005 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti by Paul A. Eisenstein (3/8/2004)Ferrari does battle with the Bologna Blizzard and throws some good punches. More reviews at TheCarConnection.com Get invoice and MSRP prices for this vehicle Get a dealer quote for this vehicle

"Ntegy love"
[1993 Acura Integra ]

Owner: raqy408
Year: 1993
Make: Acura
Model: Integra
Est.Horsepower: 140
Under The Hood: 5spd, stock except for air intake
Outside:
Inside: MOMO shift knob, stock interior, Eibach springs
Stiff Stuff:
Rollers/Stoppers: 17toyos on rotas
Page Views: 31
Comments: 1 Comments
Ratings: 0 votes
Overall:
Rating :
Exterior:
Rating :
Interior:
Rating :
Performance:
Ratin

Ford Ikon

Ford Ikon
Price range – Rs. 4.5 to 5.5 lakhs
Everything about the new Ford Ikon 1.3 L exudes style, luxury and class. ROCAM engine, contemporary styling, luxurious interiors and many more safety features makes this trendy car as a show stopper on any road. Its pleasure drive assures you to have a ride worthy of royalty. Safety and security features which make this car more reliable to the buyers are remote fuel filler cap connected to central locking, child locks, steering column lock, spare wheel mounted inside the boot etc.

Features :
This car is equipped with most advanced and modern features such as :

* Plush beige seats
* Stylish instrument panel
* Sportier steering wheel, chrome finished gear knob, power windows
* Sporty alloy wheels, rear spoiler
* Body colored bumper and excellent exteriors
* Its Soft-feel steering wheel rim to reduce head injuries on impact
* Seat belts for all occupants

It is available in twovariants such as:

* Ford Ikon 1.3 Rocam
* Ikon 1.4 DuraTorq TDCi


Colors :

* Paprika red
* Panther black
* Brush steel
* Diamond white
* Moon dust silver
* Platinum

Ratings and Awards
Ratings Consumer Rating
6 Reviews
9.3 Rate It
Awards There are no awards for this vehicle at this time.
Forums Read What Members Are Saying

Featured New Beetle Content
Colors







More
Specs Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gal.; EPA Mileage Estimates - Automatic (City / Highway / Combined): 20 mpg / 29 mpg / 23 mpg; Range in Miles: 290 mi. / 420.5 mi. / 333.5 mi. More
Safety Antilock Brakes: Standard; Four Wheel Antilock Brakes: Standard; More

Vehicle Overview
Learn what's new for this model year
Get a complete vehicle overview including a breakdown of the various trim levels, options, safety features and the latest technologies introduced with this model year.
Read the Model Review

Chrysler K platform

The Chrysler Corporation's K-cars were compact-to-midsize cars designed to carry six adults on two bench seats and were aimed not only to replace Chrysler's nominally-compact F-body Aspen and Volaré, but also to compete with intermediates like the Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fairmont. Based on their passenger space, the K-cars were placed in the same "midsize" category by the United States Environmental Protection Agency‎ as Chrysler's significantly larger and heavier M-body cars[1]

The K cars have been categorized as compact for their external size and small front-wheel drive layout. Technically, the K cars include only the Dodge Aries, Plymouth Reliant, second generation Chrysler LeBaron, and the Dodge 400, which used the K platform. The rest of the K-derivatives, including Chrysler's minivans, were based on the K platform with adaptations and modifications to suit vehicles of different size and intended usage. These vehicles had modified suspensions and were longer and heavier than the original K-cars, but all had the same basic architecture: a solid beam rear axle, independent front suspensions with MacPherson struts, and front-wheel drive (except for the AWD minivans). Sometimes, they also shared numerous internal components and trim pieces (e.g. the Reliant and first-generation Voyager).

car

An automobile or motor car is a wheeled motor vehicle used for transporting passengers, which also carries its own engine or motor. Most definitions of the term specify that automobiles are designed to run primarily on roads, to have seating for one to eight people, to typically have four wheels, and to be constructed principally for the transport of people rather than goods.[1] However, the term automobile is far from precise, because there are many types of vehicles that do similar tasks.

As of 2002, there were 590 million passenger cars worldwide (roughly one car per eleven people).[2] Around the world, there were about 806 million cars and light trucks on the road in 2007; they burn over 260 billion gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel yearly. The numbers are increasing rapidly, especially in China and India.[3]

For three decades, Honda has played a leading role in meeting environmental challenges.
The Natural Choice
Nothing but clean natural gas powers the Civic GX, making it nearly free of emissions.* And you never have to stop at a regular gas station—unless you need a snack.
Smiling Skies
The stringent California Air Resources Board (CARB) calls the GX an Advanced Technology Partial-Zero-Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV).*
High Score
The Civic GX has received top honors, including a high score from the American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy, which awarded the 2008 GX the distinction of being “America’s Greenest Car.”
Future Benefits
With the CNG-powered GX, you can tap into North America's fuel supply. So you’ll be able to demonstrate your responsible attitude toward both the planet and your budget. The technology and learning from the GX has also helped enable our dream of a real-world fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity.
*AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle), as certified by California Air Resources Board (CARB) in California and states that have adopted California Zero-Emission Vehicle regulations.

MYVI SPECIFICATIONS

Myvi SE

Dimensions & Weight		1.3 GHS	1.3 ZHS
Transmission		5MT	4AT
Overall length / width / height (mm)		3760 / 1665 / 1550
Interior length / width / height (mm)		1835 / 1400 / 1270
Wheelbase (mm)		2440
Track front / rear (mm)		1455 / 1465
Minimum road clearance (mm)		160
Kerb weight (kg)		945	960
Seating capacity		5
Min. turning radius (m)		4.7

Proton Satria Neo

Home Proton Proton Satria Neo

Proton Satria Neo

Power - A formidable CamPro 16v DOHC engine - Able to reach a maximum speed in excess of 190km/h* - 0-100km/h injust 11.5secs*		Performance - Handling by Lotus - Precise steering response - MacPherson strut system - 16" tyres for 1.6, 15" for 1.3 - Braking system with ABS and EBD*		Interior - Integrated radio control system on steering wheel* - Stylish A/C knob system - Sporty Tempest Grey interior - Easy folding rear passenger seats - Bold and Engagiing textures - Bucket seats
Safety - High structural integrity - Double impact bars for greater side impact protection - Immobilizer system* - CAPTOR vehicle tracking system* - Integrated SRS dual airbag* - Integrated reverse sensors*		Style - Bold front and rear lights - Smooth curves - Soothing night illumination - Simplistic design concept		Exceeds International Safety Standards - Structure durability - Crashworthiness - Crumple zone - Airbag deployment

Volkswagen Karmann Ghia

1955 Ghia-styled two-plus-two coupe with two functional air intake openings in the front panel for improved cockpit ventilation. Louvres at the rear admit air to the air-cooled engine. Small tall lights, almost rectangular. Metal dashboard in body colour. Traditional Beetle drivetrain with rear-mounted 30bhp 1192cc air-cooled flat-four engine bolted to four-speed swing-axle transaxle with synchromesh on top three ratios.

1957 Redesigned dashboard with fuel gauge located between speedometer and clock. New steering wheel with semi-circular horn ring.

1958 Cabriolet launched alongside coupe.

1959 Front wings redesigned to raise headlamp height; front air intake grilles enlarged.

1960 Right-hand-drive versions of both coupe and cabriolet available from August 1959. Redesigned rear light clusters.

1961 Engine uprated to 34bhp, transmission now all-synchromesh.

1966 Styling essentially unchanged, but many improvements under the skin, including 40bhp 1285cc engine and redesigned front suspension with balljoints in place of king and link pins.

1967 New 44bhp 1493cc engine installed across the range. Revised final drive ratio for more relaxed cruising. Disc front brakes with dual circuits fitted for the first time. Increased rear track and stabiliser bar help to improve handling. Four-stud wheel fixing and 'flat' hub caps. Woodgrain-effect dashboard trim.

1968 Optional semi-automatic 'stickshift' transmission introduced plus all-new 'four-joint' rear suspension. Electrics upgraded to 12 volts. Fuel filler cap moved to behind flap on front wing.

1971 50bhp 1584cc engine with separate inlet ports, to-speed now 83mph. New wrap-around front indicators and larger rear light clusters introduced.

1972 Matt-black dashboard, new 'safety' steering wheel. Rear lights enlarged 'Euro' bumpers fitted to meet stricter US safety regulations.

1974 Production ceases on June 21.

Proton's Exora Model Receives Myvap Certification

Proton Holdings Bhd's latest model, the Exora, has been awarded the Malaysian Vehicle Assessment Programme (MyVAP) certification, scoring four out of five stars for safety assessment.

Its managing director Datuk Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir said Proton was the first car manufacturer to voluntarily send its Exora model for evaluation by MyVAP, which initiated the programme.

"The commitment is for all our new cars in the future and we are challenging for five stars," he told reporters after receiving the MyVAP certification from the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) here today.

Syed Zainal Abidin said the award would further enhance the confidence of the public in Proton cars.

With the findings from the assessment, he said Proton could further improve its Exora model by enhancing more safety features such as side airbangs, curtain airbags and pop-up bonnet.

MIROS director-general Professor Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah said the MyVAP certification is an evaluation programme carried out by MIROS to improve vehicle safety level, with the aim of creating and enhancing awareness among local road users with regard to vehicle safety.

Asked about the the automotive industry, Syed Zainal Abidin said: "The industry is still challenging but we can see some signs of recovery. I think all manufacturers are pushing very hard. The government is also providing basic indicators like stimulus packages and the banks are providing more lending."

Proton, he said, will continue to carry out more marketing initiatives in order to stimulate sales growth.

Perodua Myvi

Some ideas from Perodua concept car built in 2001 were said to have been incorporated in the Myvi.

Front end of Myvi is distinctive and bold, with large eye-catching headlights.

From all angles, the styling conveys an appearance of solidity and stability

LEDs are used in rear light clusters, the little lighting units giving longer service life and also illuminating more quickly than conventional bulbs

The Perodua Myvi which gets its official launch tonight is a very significant new model for Perodua. It’s not just another new model (the sixth one since Perodua started making cars over 10 years ago) nor is it because it is a new flagship. The significance of this new Perodua model lies in it being a demonstration of how far the second national carmaker has come and how well the partnership with Daihatsu has worked out.

To understand what’s so special about the Myvi, you must first understand how product development was undertaken when Perodua started. Back then, designs already completed by Daihatsu were provided and minor changes were made to give them a Perodua identity. In the industry, this is often called ‘badge engineering’, suggesting that the only ‘engineering’ done is to change the badge on the grille or bonnet. All else is the same as the original model apart from some specifications to meet local cost targets or consumer requirements.

The Kancil started off that way and Perodua was never shy to admit that it was a cosmetic job on a Daihatsu model known as the Mira. Its engineers were young and had much to learn from the Japanese and during the 1990s, they would be diligent students. Perodua had the intention to develop in-house capability but it was not overly-ambitious and took measured steps, each one bringing on more confidence and increased capability to do more.

By the late 1990s, Perodua’s R&D had enough confidence and skill to undertake a major facelift to the Kancil. Using the original design as a basis, it was given a fresh new appearance and a major change was in the dashboard which saw the relocation of the instrument panel to the middle section. The result was encouraging and boosted the confidence of the Malaysian engineers.

The restructuring of Perodua which saw Daihatsu taking a majority stake in the manufacturing operations saw the relationship changing to one where Perodua was given a more substantial role. For its next all-new model, scheduled for introduction in 2005, Perodua was invited to be an active participant in the development of the model from day one. This was a brand new model that was to be developed by Daihatsu and Toyota and Perodua would be part of the team. In the past, the two Japanese companies would have proceeded on their own and Perodua would only get the finished design with critical dimensions fixed and the only changes that could be made could be cosmetic.

This time, 80 engineers were sent to Japan to work on the new model and to provide their inputs right from the very start of the project which was in early 2002. What this meant was that the model (coded ‘D73A’) which would come to be known as the Daihatsu Boon/Toyota Passo actually has some Malaysian involvement in it as well – and that is something Malaysians should be proud of. In fact, former Perodua MD Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Omar once told the media that a concept model which Perodua had built itself in 2001 had impressed the Japanese a lot and when you look at that concept car now, you can see that there may have been some styling elements which were picked for the Myvi/Boon/Passo.

Of course, apart from working on the original design, the Malaysian team (who stayed in Japan for such a long period that they started to miss nasi lemak badly, according to a Perodua source!) also worked on customising certain areas for the Perodua version which would become the Myvi. Besides the R&D personnel, there were also Malaysian engineers from the manufacturing side who were sent to Japan to work simultaneously on the production issues related to the new model.

The collaboration between Perodua, Daihatsu and Toyota can be compared to that between Ford and Mazda when the two companies developed models such as the Laser/323, Telstar/626, Escape/Tribute and Ranger/Fighter. Such collaboration is necessary nowadays because the cost of developing an all-new model is incredibly expensive and being able to share the cost makes it possible to price the product more competitively. In the case of the Myvi, Perodua says that it spent around RM210 million, a fifth of what it would have cost if it had tried to develop the model alone.

This is just the start of a new section of the learning curve for Perodua and who knows, as its capabilities grow, it could be assigned more substantial responsibilities in new model development. It is not out of the question that sometime in the future, Perodua could even be given the task of developing models for the developing Asian markets while Daihatsu focuses on models for the more developed countries. But that’s a long way off and as some philosopher once said, every journey starts with the first step – and Perodua has taken that step.

The Passo/Boon were launched a year ago in Japan and the question that many may ask is if Perodua collaborated on the project, how come the Myvi could not be launched at that time? After all, if the argument is that it did not have to wait for the new model design to be completed before starting its own customisation, why such a big gap?

One reason given is that last year, Perodua had secured the contract to assemble the Toyota Avanza and it was felt that to also introduce a brand new model – especially one of such significance – would stretch resources too much. The other reason is that Perodua wanted to reach a new and much higher level of quality than before and by delaying its own launch, it could find out which areas of the Passo/Boon had minor issues or needed refinement and sort them out. In other words, just as the first version of a new software is often known to have bugs and wise consumers will wait till later versions when the bugs have been ironed out, the same can be said of the Myvi being a later version with less ‘bugs’,

Another thing was the aim was to have high local content (80% of parts or 976 items come from 147 suppliers in Malaysia or Asean countries) for the car so as to keep costs down. Localisation of parts needs a bit of extra time as additional testing has to be done to ensure that the parts meet the required standards – consistently. This high local content from start is also an achievement because it took almost 9 years to reach that sort of level with the Kancil.

Again, the determination to offer a Perodua product of much higher quality than ever before meant that extra time was needed; Perodua does not believe in making its customers ‘test’ components (and having to pay for the ‘privilege ‘too!) and wants to get everything as perfect as possible before the units go to the showrooms.

The result is that the Myvi is claimed to have a level of quality which is 10 times better than the first model Perodua produced. With its first model, the defect rate was 2.0 – 2.5 defects per car but with the Myvi, it is 0.2 defects per car – that’s 2 defects in every 10 cars. It’s not the best that can be achieved because in Japan, the factory doing Lexus models is down to 0.05 defects per car – 5 defects in every 100 cars! The maintenance of these levels is taken very seriously and constantly monitored. And they are said to have been achieved on units which will be delivered to customers too, not just on factory test runs.

According to Perodua MD, Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar, many strategies were used to ensure these quality targets were met. One approach taken was to recruit operators early so that they could receive more training time and get more familiar. They were constantly tested and only those who achieved certain scores would be entrusted to work on the Myvi line. Thus, by the time mass production began a couple of months ago, these operators already had quite a lot of experience and did not compromise quality by having to become familiar with making the new model.


Rear doors open extra-wide – up to 80 degrees – and have three steps so that they won’t knock into another car door


Interior space is generous with the 2400 mm wheelbase, takes 5 adults comfortably

MAKING IT FOR MALAYSIANS
In the development of the new model, the Perodua team took with it the requirements that it wanted considered and included in the design. These requirements were specific to Malaysian consumers and basically consisted of these aspects: enough cargo area for balik kampong journeys; fuel efficiency; roominess because many people will travel in one car; and adequate performance even with a full load.

Perodua was also aware that many of its owners liked the brand and their ownership experience was good but eventually, they needed a bigger car and Perodua’s popular range ended at 1.0 litres. Surveys showed that 62% of customers were moving away from the Perodua brand because they wanted to upgrade and the existing product range did not offer them any options. The Myvi is designed to be the new option for that upgrade which many Perodua customers want to make.

Proton EXORA Sport Edition!


Good News for all Proton users, Proton launch the latest design of Exora! This is the other concept Proton Exora which Proton Design whipped up in conjunction with the Exora’s launch. The Proton Exora Prestige converts the Exora into a VIP chauffeured car with a lounge behind where one can either continue to work on the move or relax on the way home after a stressful day.

There is of course a bodykit which includes a double fin front bumper grill, warp-around chrome foglamp garnish, a front lip, side skirts, rear apron with integrated quad exhausts, a rear roof spoiler, chrome glass trimming, chrome side protector moulding, a customised smoked rear brake lamp, tinted glass, and 18 inch wheels with 224/40R18 tyres.


In the interior, the first row is separated from the rest of the vehicle via a glass panel to give the boss at the back some privacy. The rear passenger can communicate with the driver via an intercom. This privacy glass panel includes a 19 inch LCD TV.

The VIP seats have electric adjustments, a massage system, and a built-in working table. Other creature comforts include a nice sound system including two 8 inch subwoofers to match the 5.1 channel DVD player, a stow-away footrest and a cooler box.

For people who have a money they can choose to buy this... But the price I think very though. Anyway good luck for Proton!
Read more...
Posted by Admin at 7:30 PM , 0 comments
Labels: Exora Sport, Proton Exora, Special Edition

Saga (1985–1991)

The Proton Saga was launched in September 1985 by Malaysia's then Prime Minister, Mahathir bin Mohamad. Before the production of Proton Saga, a contest was held to choose the name of the first national car, and the name Saga was chosen from the winner of the contest, Ismail Jaafar,^[1], a retired military soldier. When asked why he chose this particular name, he replied as "saga" (Abrus precatorius) is a type of soft, fragile but productive seed commonly found in Malaysia, and that the Proton Saga 1.3 litre engine "is as strong as the saga seed".

The first Proton Saga that rolled off the production line was presented to the Malaysian National Museum as a symbol of the beginning of the Malaysian automotive industry. Tun Dr. Mahathir also drove a new Proton Saga with a flag across the Penang Bridge during the opening ceremony of the bridge on 14 September 1985.

Early Saga models were powered by SOHC 8-valve 4-cylinder petrol engines sourced from Mitsubishi, available in both 1.3- and 1.5-litre displacements. Both engines were available with a 5-speed manual transmission, but a 3-speed Mitsubishi Tri-matic automatic was available with the 1.5-liter engine in 1987.

The Saga was originally offered as a 4-door saloon, followed by the addition of a hatchback variant, introduced in 1988 as the Proton Knight and was later know as Saga Aeroback. The Proton Knight was designed for the European market as the hatchback was more popular in United Kingdom.

In 1989, Proton sold the Saga in the United Kingdom with the slogan Japanese Technology, Malaysian Style. Since then, United Kingdom contributes most of Proton's export sales. The Saga name was not used and it was simply known as the Proton 1.3 or 1.5. The UK models reverted to the dashboard used in the Mitsubishi Lancer, complete with HVAC controls not found in the domestic model.

In 1990, the line-up was revised with the introduction of 12-valve Megavalve engines, which increased power ratings to 75 bhp (56 kW) (from the original 70.5 bhp (53 kW) in the former 8-valve (Magma) version^[2]) for the 1.3-litre engine, and 90 bhp (67 kW) for the 1.5-litre engine. On domestic models, the Saga also gained the "Megavalve" moniker. Minor exterior modifications included a new grill and wraparound black trim pieces. In addition, rear seat belts and a third brake light were fitted as standard.

PSA Peugeot Citroen examinining Proton alignment

PSA Peugeot Citroen examinining Proton alignment

by Chris Paukert (RSS feed) on Jun 1st 2006 at 9:03AM

PSA Peugeot Citroen may soon be adding a little Malaysian flavor to its French automotive cuisine. A company spokesperson has verified that the firs are in talks regarding a larger-scale joint venture.

The splendiferously-named Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohd Tahir, Proton's managing director admitted in a news conference that plans for some kind of alignment are fairly far along, but no details were provided about what sort of technology or vehicles may be shared.

PSA is no stranger to the joint-venture scene, as it already has arrangements with Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford.

[Sources: Business Times; CitySBP.ru]

Latest Perodua Viva Elite

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) targets to sell 13,000 units of its newly launched Perodua Viva Elite variant this year.

This sporty Viva Elite would be well received by young professionals and young families seeking to project a different image. Viva was one of Perodua’s best selling models with 155,000 units sold since it was launched in May 2007.

77,000 cars sold by Perodua in the first half year, 53% comprised the Myvi and 43% Viva. Not yet found any promotion yet, like Merdeka promtotion. The 1-litre Viva Elite comes in three variants – the Elite (MT), Elite (AT) and the Elite EZi. Prices start at RM37,900 for the Elite (MT), RM40,900 for the Elite (AT) and RM44,900 for the Elite EZi.

As expected Perodua to sell more cars in the second half year in view of the coming festivities, lower interest rates and support from the finance companies. Perodua had been increasing its production from June to cater to the upcoming launch of its new multi-purpose MPV vehicle in November.

Satria Neo Desire Concept

Proton exhibited a few of its proton design concept cars during the Proton Technology Week at the CBU Logistics area of the Shah Alam plant. The cars looked really nice and the striking colours somehow helped them stand out in the midst of all the Lotus cars that were also on display there.



The Satria Neo “Pure Desire” concept car features a unique pearl white exterior paint with hand painted body graphics and a white interior with Recaro racing seats wrapped with soft white nappa leather on the inside. Wheels are white 6 spoke 18 inch alloys wrapped with Falken 215/40R18 tyres. The gearknob, carbon fiber exhaust tips, handbrake and steering wheel are from Momo, while brakes are slotted with Grippen 4-pot calipers.