Genesis G90

Hyundai has unveiled the Genesis G90. This big boy is Hyundai's luxury flagship that is sold under the separate Genesis brand.

Genesis Brand Launches its G90 Luxury Flagship

 Cutting-edge technology, ultimate refinement and luxurious

convenience set the Genesis brand flagship apart

 Premium luxury sedan exudes confidence and differentiation through

‘Athletic Elegance’ with refined and dynamic performance

 Generous world-class safety and technology innovations

January 12, 2016 – Hyundai Motor Company today unveiled its G90 premium luxury sedan

for the Genesis brand in the U.S. market, the new flagship of the brand’s model line-up. The

G90 will compete at the top of the premium luxury car segment with world-class

technological innovations and the highest levels of refinement, convenience and dynamic

performance.

Created by key members of the new Prestige Design Division, G90 represents the

embodiment of the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design theme. The G90 silhouette is both

powerful and refined, from its prominent hood, generous wheelbase, minimized overhangs

and sophisticated rear deck contours. Inside the cabin, fine materials and textures from top

automotive suppliers meet human-centered ergonomics to provide occupants with absolute

convenience and luxurious comfort.

Human-Focused Innovation

With advanced technological innovation at its core, G90 features GENESIS SMART SENSE,

a suite of active driver safety technologies. These features cover the full spectrum of safety,

from driver alertness and focus to total occupant safety, and even the safety of other drivers

around you. This suite brings together systems such as Automatic Emergency Braking with

Pedestrian Detection, Smart Cruise Control, Smart Blind Spot Detection and Lane Keep

G90’s Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), utilizing sensor fusion technology to help avoid

a potential collision or reduce its impact. With this system, G90 will employ automatic braking

when it detects another vehicle or pedestrian at an unsafe closing rate of speed. This system

uses the front radar from the Smart Cruise Control system and the forward camera from the

Lane Keep Assist (LKA) to provide this extra margin of safety.

Best-in-class Luxury Refinement in every area

Benefitting from an intensive four-year development focus by an 800-strong team, the G90

offers best-in-class NVH refinement levels. Every detail of the interior has been crafted to

enhance the car’s human-centered focus.

Advanced ergonomic analysis dictates the positioning of driver controls, passenger comfort

and entertainment features, while exclusive materials are sourced from the finest artisans

around the world. For optimized comfort, Genesis offers a 22-way power driver seat.

Vehicle dynamics, including ride comfort and road holding in adverse conditions, are

optimized by combining an advanced H-TRAC all-wheel-drive system with the first

application of Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension (ACS).

Sporty Agility with Refined Performance

G90 owners will immediately notice the highest standards of refined performance. These

characteristics are central to the Genesis brand, with development teams carrying out

rigorous performance testing at the company’s European Technical Center at the Nürburgring

in Germany and the California Proving Grounds in the Mojave Desert. Even with this sporty

and responsive character, the G90 interior environment remains well-mannered. G90

powertrain options include an all-new 3.3-liter direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 or the

award-winning Tau 5.0-liter direct-injected V8 for ultimate power.

In addition to the United States, G90 will be offered in other markets, including China, Russia

and various countries in the Middle East. Five additional Genesis models are planned for

launch within the next five years. Freshly brewed entertainment news in www.38today.com

Test Drive: 2015 Renault Fluence Dynamique

Sometime during the end of December 2015 I was handed the key to a Renault Fluence Dynamique. I wasn't really sure it was a key as it basically looked like a fat credit card or one of Victorinox's SwissCard that had a knife, magnifier, toothpick and some other stuff. But it actually was the key as it had buttons on it and you could slot it into the center console of the Renault Fluence and start it up. With a press of a start-stop button. This is a good thing because this was the flattest key I have ever seen and it would fit in my card holder or in my pocket and not make the pocket bulge. Keys should be like this (see the pic below).

Oh. The best thing about this card looking key is that no one would expect a key to look like this and if there was a thief wanting to try steal the Renault he would have no idea that a card sized piece of plastic is actually the key. I think most Renault cars have this sort of key but I thought I'd elaborate a little bit more on its practicality before I start reviewing the car.

So what is a Renault Fluence? The Renault Fluence is a compact family sedan or C segment sized car that actually is sized slightly larger than normal. It is based on the Renault/Nissan C platform but is larger than the Nissan Sylphy but smaller than the D segment Teana sold here. It is also based on the Renault Megane MkIII and is basically sold in markets where sedans or saloons are in demand, like here in Malaysia (and China, India, Western Europe) rather than places like the UK where hatchback rules.

It has been around since 2009 and was facelifted at the end 2012 and again in 2015. Malaysia had the pre - facelift model for a short period before the official distributors TC Euro Cars brought in this latest model last year. The facelift in 2012, which this 2015 car pictured here, was the major one which brought the front end of the Fluence in line with the current Renault family face. Now the Fluence looks like the Megane sold here instead of something that looks so plain and actually uninteresting to look at. This new face works for the Fluence. With the LED lights featured on this Dynamique specced car it does look aggressive enough so that people will move aside whilst one bombs down the highway. This front end has enough road presence to keep me happy.

Of course, the rear end needs more help. It looks sedate. It looks like something from the year 2000. Imagine that, the year 2000 is considered as old. But yes, the Fluence has a rear end that is now at odds with a good looking front end. Of course, looks are subjective. I know some actually dig that old 1999 Ford Mondeo looks. What I can say is that the car does not look that offensive.

This really is an inoffensive car. On the inside too. The person who designed the interior must have also liked the early 2000s. If you took away the fully digital speedometer cluster and the infotainment display screen in the middle of the dashboard you'd think that this was a Renault from the era mentioned above. But it isn't. This is a car from 2015 that is fully equipped. Everything you need and more is here. The quality of plastics and leather used inside feels of the current class standards though.

As for equipment, this car has auto rain / light sensors, reverse camera, GPS, Navigation, things to fiddle around with, a radio, USB, Bluetooth. The car also has airconditioning, cruise control, speed limiter, a fully digital readout and more. But. But all of this is clothed in something plain. How shall I put this. The Renault Fluence is like Bob The Builder. He is solid, dependable, able to do lots of things but he isn't Barney the Dinosaur who is colourful, has teeth, and being a dinosaur, able to rip you to pieces when he isn't singing children's songs.

The only other drawback aside from the slightly plain looks is the fact that when you drive a French car some switchgear is not where you expect them to be. Take for example the cruise control and speed limited switch. It is located at the base of the armrest just behind the cup holders (which are a tad too small in diameter and can only fit drinking cans and smaller sized bottles). The radio controls are also on a stalk with pedals behind the steering wheel. So unlearn what you have learnt and all would be fine if you drive a Fluence. Or vice versa.

The Fluence is also most probably very reliable because it has a Renault/Nissan Alliance engine and gearbox inside it. You can find the same engine and gearbox inside the Nissan Teana 2.0. Therefore, this French car has all the reliability of a Japanese car and this, in my opinion is what a lot of people here in Malaysia want in a car. That MR series of engine, or M series if its a Renault is a 2.0liter normally aspirated 4 cylinder engine that makes 143hp and 195Nm of torque. 

The engine is coupled to the Xtronic CVT gearbox which is also a Nissan based thingy. CVTs do not use traditional fixed gear ratios. Instead, it relies on two hydraulically-operated steel pulleys which are connected by a metal chain link. When accelerating, the sides of the cone shaped pulleys either push together or pull apart to move the position of the chain on the pulleys. By completely eliminating the need for gears, CVTs are able to improve fuel economy. CVTs allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point at all times and loves to hold the engine revs at peak power whilst the speed catches up to it. Traditional automatic transmissions move out of the fuel-efficiency zone while shifting and hunting for gears, but as the CVT doesn’t technically shift, it’s able to keep the engine operating efficiently at all times. However, such a gearbox is usually a little noisy the engine revs are held and whilst there is refinement from not having shifting jolts or slurs, the engine management holds engine revs high if you are flooring it. Which is why I don't quite like this type of transmission. 

DRIVING THE CAR

The Fluence has a CVT type of gearbox. Whilst it can do 0-100kmh in about 10 seconds (as tested) it is not meant for someone who wants to drive fast all of the time. It could cruise all day at higher than usual speeds though. But just don't accelerate through the gears all of the time. The CVT will do what CVTs usually do and hold peak engine revs whilst the road speed catches up to it or if you ease off the accelerator once you desire a certain speed or decide that you have had enough of listening the engine growl at you at 5,000rpm. So you end up driving like a very good person. You are gentle on the accelerator so that the CVT works efficiently and quietly in the background. You could also say that luckily the Fluence has a 2.0liter engine with close to 200Nm torque. It makes being gentle not that hard to do. And add the fact that this is a C segment car with adequate soundproofing, the engine noise is kept away. The CVT isn't as good as the ones fitted to the Mitsubishi Lancer or the B8 Audi A4 1.8 which somehow works better. Anyway, one should be gentle when driving this car. I managed to only get 13liters/100km which is quite on the high side for something with a CVT.

The Fluence as you know it is a family car. So it isn't stiffly sprung. It has something which is basically a family car suspension with lots of travel – take a look at the space in between the tyres and the wheelarch. Bumps, ripples and undulations are easily dealt with and everything feels secure on the highways at around 150kmh. It is without a doubt that the Europeans, even the French, make cars that cruise well at high speeds. Wind noise and road noise is kept in check too at this sot of speeds. The Fluence basically drives adequately well and everything is predictable in the handling department. Push the Fluence round a bend hard and the car will roll on the edges of the 17inch wheels, tyres will chirp in protest quite early into the corner with understeer coming on early into the picture. It does not handle like a RenaultSport car in any way whatsoever. Just the usual traditional French answer to how to make a decent family car drive.

So you add the nature of the CVT gearbox and the very comfort sprung suspension (that handled most thuds and thumps very well for a C segment car) what we are witnessing is a car that is more suited to ferry the family around comfortably rather than bomb through the corners or Sepang F1 circuit at that.

What this car has is space. According to the specs this car sits between the usual C segment car and the upper medium D segment cars. It is as long as some D segment cars but it isn't as wide. In terms of width, it is the same as any C segment car. So you get lots of legroom front and rear to stretch out your legs. I can imagine a family of four doing long trips outstation in this and being quite comfortable inside it due to this fact and that it has better than average refinement for its class.

So who should buy this car? The family man or women who wants something reasonably priced, that isn't a Honda, Toyota or Nissan yet is as reliable as one of those mentioned. In some ways the Fluence is actually a better proposition than the three brands mentioned due to the equipment, styling and price ratio. Only one of the three mentioned would drive as good as this Fluence (the Honda Civic) but all of these cars have less driver comforts. If it came against the Mazda 3 however it would be a difficult call. You have space in the Fluence but the Mazda's looks, driveability is hard to ignore. Against the Koreans you could even go up a whole class by buying a Kia Optima K5. So what the Renault Fluence has got going for it is the complete package for the average family who wants space, equipment which is nicely hidden away and a bit of French quirkiness. I have to conclude that for the price, all is fine and dandy with the Fluence.

2015 Renault Fluence 2.0CVT (A) Dynamique

Pros : Interior space, lengthy equipment list, Japanese reliability, front end looks (great highway presence from a family sedan as you sneak up on unsuspecting cars from behind...huhu) , comfortable ride, refinement, price, service & warranty package is the best seen so far

Cons: Rear end looks, French ergonomics, plain interior styling, digital speedometer is either a hit or a miss, CVT does what CVTs usually do, fuel consumption could be better, the sound system by Arkamys is good but could be better if it had a proper enclosed space for the bass to kick as it rattles at higher volume.

Conclusion:

Well equipped larger than usual C segment family car (which could explain why the consumption is slightly high). Slightly different from the usual suspects and with its price (RM108,888 for the more basic Fluence Expression – only lacks the leather seats, LED lights and has different alloy wheels but keeps all other goodies like GPS, the stereo system etc & RM119,888 for this Fluence Dynamique).

Add the 5 years manufacturer warranty, 5 years free servicing and parts (T&Cs obviously apply..like the mileage you do, keeping with service schedules etc etc), house or office pick up for normal servicing and a courtesy car if repairs last longer than usual make this car an interesting proposition indeed.

Specification

Price as tested: RM119,888

Engine

2.0liter 4 cylinder 143hp / 195 Nm torque

Transmission

X-Tronic CVT with Tiptronic (no pedal shifters)

0-100kmh 10.0seconds (tested)

Top Speed: 195kmh (tested)

Fuel Consumption : 13.0ltrs/100km (routes include city commutes, heavy footed highway driving and in and around the neighbourhood for groceries)

Freshly brewed entertainment news in www.38today.com

Spotted for Sale: 2003 Toyota Alphard 3.0 (A) MZG - The affordable truck/bus/van/window van for you

Last Saturday I had afternoon teh tarik with my friend Zairul. We had just gone around test driving one of the cars I had managed to procure for the weekend. So whilst we were discussing the merits of the car of the week we of course sidetracked to various other motor vehicle discussion and debate. As you know, people carriers are actually good for one thing only. People carrying. 

So the other day a colleague of him drove to work a Toyota Alphard. It belonged to the guy's brother and he had to pick it up as the owner had to be elsewhere. It was a 3.0liter Toyota Alphard and was fully loaded with all sorts of creature comforts. Now when he first entered the barge of a Toyota, my friend Zairul thought that the barn was a 5 year old Alphard as it looked immaculate. It wasn't. It was a 2004 model and therefore one of the first that was imported (by some local AP dealer) into Malaysia. The colleague's brother bought the moving bungalow for RM70,000. 

Imagine that. RM70,000 for a fully loaded, fully equipped moving mansion/barge/truck/van with a heck of a lot local prestige as it is an Alphard. Here in Malaysia, Toyota Alphards and its twin, the Toyota Vellfire hold some sort of status as the vehicles for VIPs to be driven in. You can't get any better than that if you get one cheaply right?

So here is one that I spotted for sale on mudah.my. A 2003 Toyota Alphard 3.0 (a) MZG. I don't even know what MZG stands for much less care. But imagine as what my friend Zairul said, "If you were about 50 years old, and you had some money in the bank, not much, but enough as you've saved it over the years you could buy this for RM70,000. You have one university going son who now has his licence for about two or three years, a wife and two other secondary school-going kids and you want something that can carry all of these adult sized people in relative comfort. What could you buy?"

"A first batch Toyota Alphard." he continued. Actually this makes perfect sense. You get the kid to drive you and the wife as well as the rest to the family gatherings or weddings. You arrive in style. Or purported style as Malaysians think the Alphard is a great thing to be seen in. This adds brownie points to the fifty year old man. 

And I have to mentioned that most people are not car people and wouldn't know a 2003 Alphard from a 2012 Vellfire. I actually didn't care until a friend of mine bought one a few years ago (the Vellfire has split front headlights and rear lights with a black interior basically). Most of the Alphard owners keep their truck/bus/van/jeep in pristine condition so a 2003 model will still be a very pleasant place to be sitting in. All for under RM70,000 these days. 

Take a look at the 2003 Alphard 3.0's interior here. It looks new. It also has a nice subtle bodykit and 19 inch wheels too. A complete package for most of you who dream of owning this van/truck/bus. I've also asked that if you want to take out a loan for an Alphard as old as this you still can, albeit a higher interest rate and only 40-50% of the amount. It still is a good proposition yes?

Did you notice why I keep calling the Alphard truck/bus/van/jeep? Because it technically is. Take a look at the registration card details below - see the "JIP/VAN/BAS/KVN IND WINDOW VAN" thingy. So all of you truck/bus drivers aka Alphard or Vellfire out there, do take this into account you window van drivers.

Advert details can be see here (while it lasts) or down below :

'Seller Says

*** TOYOTA ALPHARD 3.0 VVT-I (A) MZG FACELIFT ***

* ORIGINAL MZG HIGH SPEC VERSION
* CAREFUL OWNER
* ORIGINAL HIGH SPEC VERSION
* ORIGINAL FACELIFT MODEL
* LOW MILEAGE
* 3.0CC V6 VVTI POWER PERFOMANCE ENGINE
* INTERIOR PREMIUM LEATHERS AND WOOD TRIMS
* 7 SEATERS LUXURY MPV
* AUTO POWER SIDE MIRRORS WITH INDICATORS
* SRS AIR BAG AND ABS
* 19" SPORT RIMS
* 90% AVAILABLE 4 TYRES
* SUNROOF AND MOONROOF
* REAR LEG REST
* ROOM LIGHTS
* DVD TOUCH SCREEN
* POWER DOOR
* POWER BOOT

Show contact numbertan. No sms no whatsapp
Show contact numbertan

 batu 13
Jalan cheras
43000 kajang

Read more at http://www.mudah.my/20'03+Toyota+Alphard+3+0+A+MZG+sunroof+moonroof-43282261.htm#61mDEteYLkkrmeu9.99' Freshly brewed entertainment news in www.38today.com

Truck News: Daimler Trucks sells more than 500,000 units in 2015

BharatBenz, FUSO, Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner (from the left to the right): With its truck brands, Daimler Trucks is present on all continents.

We're hearing more record sales worldwide for most manufacturers, especially the Daimler group (which includes Mercedes Benz). Their truck division had sold over half a million units in 2015 and even in a difficult economic condition. 

No news of the Malaysian market in the press release, but Daimler Trucks will have the South East Asia regional office set up in Singapore in 2016 which should see better sales and after sales as well as better targeted response towards their products sold here - Mercedes Benz trucks, buses and FUSO vehicles. No need to wonder why Singapore was chosen over Malaysia, right?

PRESS RELEASE

Daimler Trucks sells over half a million trucks in 2015

Stuttgart

, 

Jan 07, 2016

• As planned, the leading truck manufacturer reaches the target which it has aimed at for many years
• Despite a difficult environment, unit sales in 2015 slightly above previous year level
• Market position in key markets further consolidated
• Offensive in growth markets with six new regional centres
• Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard: "2015 we have sold over 500,000 trucks and have increased our unit sales for the third year in a row. Thanks to our leading products we will deliver one of the best years in the history of Daimler Trucks despite some very challenging markets. This is a great achievement by our global team. I thank all employees for their outstanding efforts."

The Freightliner Inspiration truck - This beauty (I mean, look at it) is a self driving truck. - Daimler Trucks tech highlight of 2015

Stuttgart – Despite partly difficult markets Daimler Trucks has increased its global sales to over 500,000 units in 2015 based on first December figures. In 2014 Daimler Trucks sold 495,700 vehicles worldwide under the Mercedes-Benz, FUSO, Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses and BharatBenz brands. The final sales figures for 2015 will be presented on February 4^th 2016 at Daimler's annual press conference.

Daimler Trucks reached its goals in a very heterogeneous and challenging market environment: Although the truck markets in North America and Europe grew significantly, the important markets of Brazil and Indonesia slumped. Also in Turkey the market decreased during the last few months due to political insecurities. In particular, in November and December, market conditions have further deteriorated significantly. Nevertheless Daimler Trucks managed to reach its sales target thanks to strong products and an excellent performance in sales.

Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, member of the Daimler Board of Management, responbsible for Daimler Trucks & Buses, commented: “2015 we have sold over 500,000 trucks and have increased our unit sales for the third year in a row. Thanks to our leading products we will deliver one of the best years in the history of Daimler Trucks despite some very challenging markets. This is a great achievement by our global team. I thank all employees for their outstanding efforts."

On the subject of the future prospects for Daimler Trucks, he noted: "Conditions in the truck market will remain challenging in 2016. Nevertheless, our sights remain set on our next sales target of 700,000 trucks in 2020."

Bernhard continued: "To sit back is not an option for us. We remain focused on the implementation of our strategy. For this purpose, we will again demonstrate our technology leadership in the IAA year 2016. For example we will proceed with important developments for example in terms of vehicle connectivity but also when it comes to efficiency, active safety and autonomous driving. We are also expanding our global presence and will get even closer to our customers with six new regional centres. And I see large potential in expanding the global platform strategy beyond just the powertrain.”

Clear increase in unit sales in North America

The global increase has largely been driven by the NAFTA region, where Daimler Trucks is on the way to record sales thanks to robust market growth and a strong product range. Between January and November 2015 sales were up 20 percent to 176,100 units (p.y. 147,200). Daimler Trucks has further extended its market leadership in weight classes 6-8, with market share rising to 39.1 percent (p.y. 37.3). In 2016, the North American market for trucks in the classes 6-8 is expected to be below the very high level of 2015.

One of the key reasons for the success of Daimler Trucks products in the North American market is that customers are increasingly recognising the benefits of the integral powertrain of Daimler trucks. With its perfectly coordinated combination of engine, transmission and axles, it delivers clear efficiency advantages. Daimler Trucks was the first manufacturer to offer this powertrain on the North American market. The DT12 automatic transmission system is central to that success. More than 40 percent of Freightliner Cascadia and Western Star 5700 XE are now sold with automatic transmission systems – around twice as many as in 2014. In order to be able to serve the growing demand in the region more quickly, local production of the DT12 transmission system for the North American market began in Detroit in November. From 2018, medium-duty engines for the NAFTA market will also be manufactured in Detroit. In total Daimler is investing around 450 million Euros.

Business in Western Europe gained momentum over the course of the year

In Western Europe too, Daimler Trucks increased sales in the first eleven months to 56,000 units (p.y. 50,500). The pace of growth increased noticeably over the course of the year. Mercedes-Benz continues to lead the market in the medium-duty and heavy-duty segment with a market share of 21.9 percent (p.y. 24.6). Despite a weaker economy and political instability in the region, unit sales in Turkey surpassed the high level of the previous year (18,900) to 20,400 trucks from January to November 2015. This was due in part to the effect of spending brought forward ahead of the EURO VI emissions standard coming into effect on January 1^st 2016. However, the momentum tailed off over the year, a trend which is expected to continue in 2016.

Market share further increased in Brazil despite market weakness

In Latin America the unit sales of Daimler Trucks decreased to 27,900 (p.y. 44,500) units in the first eleven months, primarily as a result of the dramatic downturn in the Brazilian market. In Brazil 15,200 vehicles were delivered between January and November, compared to 31,300 in the same period in the previous year. In this extremely tough market environment Daimler Trucks succeeded in increasing market share in the medium- and heavy-duty segment in Brazil to 26.6 percent (p.y. 26.0). Despite the current market weakness Daimler Trucks continues to invest in order to increase its competitiveness in the local market in the longer term. Between 2014 and 2018 around 500 million Euros will be invested in Brazil in customised products, technologies and services as well as the modernisation of the production network. In October this year Mercedes-Benz in Brazil launched a number of product innovations onto the market, including further refinements to the locally manufactured truck models Accelo, Atego, Axor and Actros in terms of comfort, fuel consumption and total cost of ownership. Also for 2016 there is no recovery of the market situation to be expected.

Mixed sales performance in Asian markets

The Asian markets showed significant differences in performance in 2015. In Japan the FUSO brand increased sales by 4 percent to 41,600 vehicles (p.y. 39,000). The share of the truck market in Japan increased further to 20.7 percent (p.y. 20.3). In a sharp declining Indonesian market, sales fell to 29,400 units (p.y. 51,400). However, Daimler Trucks increased its market share to 48.2 percent (p.y. 47.2).

In India Daimler Trucks could increase sales by 29 percent to 12,500 vehicles (p.y. 9,700). More than 30,000 BharatBenz trucks have been delivered to customers since the company first entered the market in September 2012. The launch of new models also helped BharatBenz to increase its market share in the upper medium- and heavy-duty truck segment to 7.1 percent (p.y. 5.9). An important new product this year was the heavy-duty BharatBenz 3143, which has been specially designed for use in mining and on construction sites. The Indian-made vehicles will play a key role in opening up important growth markets in Asia and Africa. In 2015 Daimler Trucks began exporting to more than a dozen additional markets from the plant in Chennai. Trucks from the plant now are being shipped to more than 20 markets in total. In 2016 the company plans to move into several additional markets with FUSO trucks that have been specially adapted to the needs of these countries.

Greater global reach with six new regional centres

Going forward, Daimler will position itself even more closely to its customers in Africa, Asia and Latin America so that it can benefit from the opportunities for growth in these highly promising markets. In October the first of the six planned regional centres was opened in Dubai. These centres will focus entirely on sales and after-sales for Daimler commercial vehicles. In the first quarter of 2016 further regional centres will open in Kenya for central Africa, in Pretoria (South Africa) for southern Africa and in Singapore for South East Asia. These new regional centres will enable Daimler to respond even faster and in a more targeted manner to the needs of customers in these markets.

Technology highlight of 2015 – Highway Pilot enables semi-autonomous driving

In 2015, Daimler Trucks further emphasized its pioneering role in the area of autonomous driving. In May, Daimler received a public driving licence for the Freightliner Inspiration Truck in the US state of Nevada – the first time a self-driving truck had ever been licensed for use on the road anywhere in the world. Just five months later, Daimler Trucks began testing the first autonomously driving series-produced truck in Germany on public roads. The truck used is a standard Mercedes-Benz Actros equipped with the intelligent Highway Pilot system to test autonomous driving on public roads. The Highway Pilot enables semi-autonomous driving, which means that while the Highway Pilot is able to steer the truck by itself on motorways, the driver retains full responsibility, needs to monitor the traffic at all times and must be able to intervene at any time. The Highway Pilot can therefore be compared to the autopilot commonly used in aviation. The system includes front-mounted radar and a stereo camera, as well as well-proven assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control +. The technology was adapted for use on public roads and has been extensively tested to ensure that all the components work perfectly with one another. The Highway Pilot has already completed around 20,000 kilometres on test routes in Germany and the USA. It is conceivable that the technology will be ready to go into production in the next two to three years.

Freshly brewed entertainment news in www.38today.com

The newest Mercedes Benz E-Class has been previewed

E400 AMG

Mercedes Benz has just released complete details of the new tenth generation E-Class premium sedan (Codename W213). Ten generations of mid-sized business class sedans. Has it been that long? I suppose it has since Mercedes Benz is actually the oldest producer of horseless carriages around and these mid-sized sedans have been the staple for most in the corporate world and an aspirational car for some. 

E400 4MATIC AMG

So what does the latest E-Class offer then?

E400 4Matic AMG

Similar looks to the current S-class and current C-class. I mean, take a look at the pic above. Doesn't that look like the W222 S-class? It must be the latest trend to make sure that all ranges have the same family look unlike one or two generations back when the C-Class looked like the S-Class but the E-Class somehow looked slightly different. Now all three look almost the same. The other German manufacturers have been doing this and now we see Mercedes Benz embracing this styling philosophy too. Personally I don't really like all models looking the same as one another as I'd like to see individuality in action. But that being said, the new E-Class looks pleasant, Very W222 S-class in terms of styling and better proportioned than the W205 C-Class because it has extra length and width for the designers to play with.

 And it has a drag coefficient of 0.23CD (the outgoing W212 E-Class only does 0.25). Excellent numbers that show that this new E-Class is a slippery fella. Note that whilst the car looks similar to the current line-up of Mercedes Benz, the engineering behind the styling is sound. Usually with Mercedes Benz, I expect nothing less than class leading everytime they launch something new.

E400 4MATIC AMG

It has a 65mm longer wheelbase than before (2939/2874mm) and total length is up by 43mm (4923/4880mm). At launch, there is a E200 petrol that most of us Malaysians would be keen on details. There is also a E350 e plug in hybrid and a E400 also.  The range of petrol engines will comprise four-cylinder versions with outputs ranging from 135 to 180 kW (183 to 245 hp) plus a six-cylinder variant developing 245 kW (333 hp). All models will use the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.

The Saloon comes with steel suspension as standard. Three DIRECT CONTROL suspension systems with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension:

Comfort suspension;

Comfortable Avantgarde suspension with a sportier character, lowered by 15 millimetres; and

Sporty suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, lowered by 15 millimetres, which replaces the classic sports suspension

Ultimately, there is the option of the Mercedes Benz Airmatic air suspension for those who want ride comfort over everything else.

On the inside, the new E-Class looks like either a shrunken down S-class interior or a blown up C-Class interior. It basically looks the same. Just somewhere in between. Again, this isn't a bad thing. Build quality in these new Mercedes Benz interiors are stunning. Switchgear is nice to touch and to use and it exudes a sense of luxury everywhere. It just looks like there would be not much difference if you were in the hotel lobby and suddenly found yourself in the wrong Mercedes Benz. But I think Audi owners experience that occasionally so again, there's nothing really wrong with this as ultimately, the interior is a bloody nice place to be in. And I have been in a few of these new Mercedes Benz so I know what I am blabbering on about.

There are lots more driver aids compared to the previous model.  A lot of vehicle systems that are at work behind the scenes and what the driver can also play around with. Isn't this the case with new cars usually? 

Yes. The new E-Class has been previewed. Mercedes Benz is on a roll these days. Expect to see the usual long waiting lists when it is launched here in Malaysia. 

Do read the official press release below. Details and initial specs are clearly stated. Photos of the E350 e with classic styling and E220 d with Avantgarde specs after this too.

PRESS RELEASE

The new E-Class: The most intelligent business saloon

E350 e

Stuttgart

, 

Jan 11, 2016

Stuttgart.  Mercedes-Benz taking a big step into the future with the new E‑Class. Tenth-generation business saloon delivers stylish highlights with its distinct, emotive design and high-grade interior. New E-Class also marks the world premiere of numerous technical innovations. They enable comfortable, safe driving on a new level plus a new dimension in driver assistance – among other things. Complete with infotainment and control systems offering an all‑new experience. Likewise exemplary: a newly developed diesel engine coupled with lightweight design and record-breaking aerodynamics figures set the standards for efficiency in this segment, while new, optionally available multi-chamber air suspension ensures outstanding ride comfort and driving dynamics. The sum total of its innovations, including the Active Lane-change Assistant which allows the driver to steer into the selected lane as if by magic, make the E-Class the most intelligent saloon in the business class.

"The E-Class is the core of the Mercedes-Benz brand and in the past has repeatedly redefined the standards in the business-class segment. Now it carries this tradition into the future with a wealth of top-class innovations. The new E-Class takes another major step towards fully autonomous driving. In addition, it enhances efficiency, safety and comfort, reduces the stress level when driving and intensifies the motoring pleasure", says Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

E350 e

Coupé-esque and powerful

The new E-Class is sophisticated, confidently stylish and sporty. Compared with its predecessor, its wheelbase length has grown by 65 millimetres (2939/2874), its overall length by 43 millimetres (4923/4880). Its design displays hallmark Mercedes-Benz saloon proportions. The elongated bonnet coupled with a coupé-esque roof flowing into a sensual, broad-shouldered tail end creates an exciting silhouette. The powerfully extended vehicle body is characterised by short overhangs, a long wheelbase, large wheels and taut well-defined flanks displaying a fresh, stylish and dynamic interpretation of the feature line. All of which allows the E-Class to deliver the perfect take on the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy: Sensual Purity.

A powerfully designed front end underlines the status the business-class saloon aspires to, boasting a different look for each design and equipment line. The base version features the classic Mercedes radiator grille with the star on the bonnet, as does the EXCLUSIVE line – albeit in an even more elaborate fashion. The AVANTGARDE and AMG Line models are identifiable by the sports radiator grille with a large Mercedes star as its centrepiece. Each of the radiator grille designs lends the E-Class a distinct character, offering a unique degree of diversity that makes each different model stand out.

At the rear end, broad shoulders above the rear wheel arches lend the E-Class its unmistakably powerful character. Single-piece tail lights featuring a two-bar design framed by the vehicle body clearly identify the E-Class as a new member of the Mercedes saloon family. Optionally available rear lights provide an additional highlight reminiscent of stardust, the Milky Way or the glow of a jet engine. This "stardust effect" is created by innovative reflector technology with a specially configured surface structure for the tail lights and is making its debut appearance on the new E-Class.

Next Level Interior Design

E350 e

The interior of the new E-Class embodies the synthesis of emotion and intelligence, poles that are defined by the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy – distinct forms with a sensual flow to them. Optional extras include two next-generation high-resolution displays, each with a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 inches – a first in this segment. Beneath their shared glass cover, the two displays visually conflate into a wide-screen cockpit that seems to be hovering in thin air, creating a central element that emphasises the horizontal orientation of the interior design. As the instrument cluster, this wide-screen cockpit contains a large display with virtual instruments in the direct field of vision of the driver as well as a central display above the centre console. The driver can choose between three different styles to select their preferred design for the wide-screen instrument cluster:  "Classic", "Sport" and "Progressive".

In addition, touch-sensitive control buttons ('Touch Controls') on the steering wheel make their first appearance in a car. Like a smartphone interface, they respond precisely to horizontal and vertical swiping movements, allowing the driver to control the entire infotainment system using finger swipes without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. In keeping with the motto "hands on the wheel, eyes on the road“, this allows achieving minimum driver distraction.

Further controls for the infotainment system are provided in the shape of a touchpad with controller in the centre console, which can even recognise handwriting, and the LINGUATRONIC voice control system. There are also direct-access buttons for controlling functions such as the air-conditioning system or – in another first – for convenient activation and deactivation of certain driver assistance systems.

A new, intelligent graphic design with high-resolution visualisations and animations, together with a simplified logic, further enhances this all-new operating experience. At the same time, the occupants enjoy a sensual interior with spacious architecture, which combines the elegance of the luxury class with accomplished sportiness.

Intelligent material design

High-quality materials define the interior style. They include open-pore woods, wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood and a novel metal fabric. The use of authentic materials is continued in the leather-covered doors and the beltline for selected lines. Another Mercedes hallmark clearly in evidence is the high-quality look and feel created through meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Just as carefully composed is the material/colour concept with various shades of brown, including new attractive colour combinations such as nut brown/macchiato and saddle brown/macchiato. This allows a personalised interior design.

Lighting atmosphere with 64 colours

The interior lighting makes exclusive use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. The same applies to the enhanced ambient lighting included in the lines. With 64 colours, it offers a host of possibilities for personalisation. It adds touches of light, for example, to the trim parts, central display, front stowage facility on the centre console, handle recesses, door pockets, front and rear footwells, overhead console, and tweeters (if the vehicle is equipped with the Burmester^® high-end 3D surround sound system).

Seat design: first class 

A further highlight of the new E-Class is its seats. Their ergonomic, sculptural form combines Mercedes-Benz's hallmark suitability for long journeys with a refined, sporty look, featuring a unique design for each line. Another new feature in this segment is a Heat Comfort package including heated armrests in the doors and on the centre console.

The rear bench seat in the new E-Class Saloon comes with the option of a three-piece backrest with a 40% - 20% - 40% split, making it exceptionally versatile. Integral features of the centre armrest include a stowage box and two pop-out drinks holders. There is also the option of a holder for a tablet PC for the rear passengers.

New engine generation

The new E-Class will come with a choice of two engines at market launch: the E 200 with a four-cylinder petrol engine and the E 220 d with an all-new four-cylinder diesel engine.

Further model variants will be added to the range after the market launch, including the E 350 e featuring hybrid technology. The PLUG-IN HYBRID impresses with its dynamism and efficiency, allowing around 30 kilometres of purely electric and therefore locally emission-free driving. Its four-cylinder petrol engine, in conjunction with a powerful electric motor, gives it a total system output of 205 kW (279 hp) with a system torque of 600 Nm. With this set-up, the E 350 e achieves the performance of a sports car yet consumes less fuel than a small, compact-class car.

The most powerful diesel variant will boast a six-cylinder engine incorporating advanced SCR exhaust technology, with an output of 190 kW (258 hp) and a peak torque of 620 Nm.

Another variant to join the range will be the E 400 4MATIC whose six-cylinder petrol engine has an output of 245 kW (333 hp) and a maximum torque of 480 Nm.

Engines boasting top efficiency

Model	Displace-ment cc	kW/hp	Nm	0-100 km/h in s	l/100 km	CO2 g/km
E 200	1991	135/184	300	7.7	5.9	132
E 220 d	1950	143/195	400	7.3	3.9	102
E 350 d	2987	190/258	620	5.9	5.1	133
E 350 e System output	1991	205/279 (155+60 205+82)	600 (350+ 360)	6.2	2.1	49

Provisional

Further variants will later complete the engine range, including a new four-cylinder diesel unit developing 110 kW (150 hp). The range of petrol engines will comprise four-cylinder versions with outputs ranging from 135 to 180 kW (183 to 245 hp) plus a six-cylinder variant developing 245 kW (333 hp).

All engines for the new E-Class are equipped with the ECO start/stop function. The petrol engines meet the requirements of the EU 6 emissions standard, while the new OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine is already configured with future RDE limits in mind.

All-new four-cylinder diesel engine

The new four-cylinder diesel unit marks the birth of a new Mercedes-Benz engine family and opens up new dimensions in efficiency. What's more, it is shorter and more compact than its predecessor thanks to reduced cylinder spacing (90 mm instead of 94 mm). Despite having a lower displacement than its predecessor, reduced to around two litres, the new diesel powerplant has an output of 143 kW/195 hp and, when installed in the E 220 d, delivers NEDC combined consumption of just 3.9 litres per 100 kilometres, which equates to CO2emissions of 102 grams per kilometre – a figure that until now only significantly smaller vehicles have been able to deliver.

In addition to this, the four-cylinder unit is exceptionally refined. In its basic form it features single-stage turbocharging and variable turbine geometry. Both the cylinder head and the crankcase are made of aluminium. The Mercedes-Benz developed NANOSLIDE^® surface coating efficiently reduces the friction between cylinder surface and steel piston.

Nine-speed automatic

All models available at market launch are equipped with the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission as standard. It enables fast gear changes and allows low engine revs, which has a particularly beneficial effect on efficiency and noise levels.

Suspension – sporty comfort

The suspension on the new E-Class offers agile driving pleasure on twisting roads as well as the highest level of ride comfort in this segment. The Saloon comes with steel suspension as standard. Three DIRECT CONTROL suspension systems with selective damping system are available in conjunction with this suspension:

• Comfort suspension
• Comfortable Avantgarde suspension with a sportier character, lowered by 15 millimetres
• Sporty suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, lowered by 15 millimetres, which replaces the classic sports suspension

AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension

Alternatively the new E-Class can be equipped with multi-chamber air suspension all round – the only car in its segment to offer this option. Advantages of this system: Three chambers of different size in the spring struts of the rear axle and two in the spring struts of the front axle make it possible to control, in three stages, how stiffly the suspension reacts. In this way, the occupants enjoy soft base suspension, and the secure feeling of good handling stability as the speed increases.

Furthermore, the highly sensitive and fast-responding AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension features all-round self-levelling for excellent ride comfort even with the vehicle loaded. It controls the ride height automatically depending on the speed and reduces fuel consumption on the motorway, for example, by lowering the vehicle. When driving on rough roads or access roads, the ground clearance can also be increased at the push of a button using the ride height adjustment switch.

The multi-chamber air suspension is supplemented by a continuously operating, electronically controlled damping adjustment system, which adapts the damping at each individual wheel to the current driving situation and road conditions fully automatically – when performing evasive manoeuvres or driving on poor road surfaces, for instance. The system therefore delivers good road roar and tyre vibration characteristics, excellent ride comfort, and outstanding driving dynamics.

What's more, a DYNAMIC SELECT switch in the cockpit enables the driver to select from four AIR BODY CONTROL modes: "Comfort", "ECO", "Sport" and "Sport+". The additional "Individual" option allows drivers to configure their vehicle to suit their own preferences.

Next-generation driver assistance systems

Mercedes-Benz's new assistance and safety systems enhance safety, comfort and driver assistance to new levels.

Active Brake Assist, fitted as standard, is able to warn the driver of impending crash situations, provide just the right level of support during emergency braking and, if necessary, also apply the brakes automatically itself. In addition to slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles, it can also detect pedestrians crossing the danger zone ahead of the vehicle.

Likewise included as standard are ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, and Crosswind Assist, which can assist the driver by substantially mitigating the effects of strong crosswinds to prevent the vehicle from drifting too far off track.

Highlights of the optional Driver Assistance package that make the E-Class the most intelligent saloon in its class include:

• DRIVE PILOT: This system represents Mercedes-Benz's next step along the road to autonomous driving. As Distance Pilot DISTRONIC on motorways and country roads, it is not only able to keep the car the correct distance behind vehicles in front automatically, it can also follow them at a speed of up to 210 km/h for the first time. This can make life easier for the driver, who no longer needs to operate the brake or accelerator pedal during normal driving and also receives plenty of steering assistance from the Steering Pilot – even on moderate bends. Another unique feature at speeds up to 130 km/h is the fact that, like in a swarm, the system can continue to intervene actively by taking account of surrounding vehicles and parallel structures, even if the lines are unclear or non-existent, like at road works. The system therefore makes driving much easier, especially in traffic jams or heavy congestion. Another feature that helps to relieve the workload on the driver in such situations is the extended restart function, which allows automatic starting of the vehicle within 30 seconds following a stop initiated by the Distance Pilot DISTRONIC on motorways or similar roads.Further new development designed to relieve stress: in combination with COMAND Online, the selectable Speed Limit Pilot subfunction can autonomously adjust the vehicle's speed in response to camera-detected speed limits or speed limits logged in the navigation system, e.g. 50 km/h in built-up areas or 100 km/h on country roads. Additional DRIVE PILOT innovations include, for the first time, an Active Lane-change Assistant. This radar- and camera-based assistance system assists the driver when changing lanes on multi-lane roads and can steer the vehicle into the lane selected by the driver – when overtaking, for example. Once the driver has indicated to turn for at least two seconds, the Active Lane-change Assistant assists with steering into the adjacent lane if it detects that the lane is unoccupied.
• Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function: Compared with the standard version, this system has extended speed thresholds with respect to vehicles and pedestrians. Furthermore, it can detect crossing traffic at junctions and, if the driver fails to respond, apply the brakes autonomously. For the first time, it can also detect hazardous situations at the tail end of traffic jams where there is no room to manoeuvre and initiate autonomous braking far sooner in such situations. Consequently, it is possible to completely avoid accidents at speeds up to 100 km/h or substantially reduce the severity of accidents at speeds above this level.
• Evasive Steering Assist: This likewise new system ideally complements the pedestrian detection function of Active Brake Assist. When the driver deliberately or instinctively performs an evasive manoeuvre in a dangerous situation, this function can assist by adding precisely calculated steering torque to support the movement of the steering wheel. This helps the driver to avoid the pedestrian in a controlled manner while subsequently facilitating the straightening-up of the vehicle to allow the situation to be negotiated safely.
• Advanced assistance systems: The intelligent assistance systems in the new Driver Assistance package also include proven systems that have been further developed in terms of their mode of operation and the sensors they use. Active Lane Keeping Assist can help stop the driver from unintentionally changing lane, this being done by corrective one-sided application of the brakes, including in the case of broken lines and risk of collision, e.g. with oncoming traffic or fast overtaking vehicles. Active Blind Spot Assist can now also warn of the risk of a lateral collision in typical urban traffic at low speeds and, as before, correctively intervene at the last moment to prevent a collision at speeds above 30 km/h. PRE-SAFE^® PLUS can protect against collisions with traffic following behind and their effects on the occupants.

Furthermore, the range of new features in the new E-Class includes:

• Remote Parking Pilot: For this first time, this system allows the vehicle to be moved into and out of garages and parking spaces remotely using a smartphone app, enabling the occupants to get into and out of the car easily, even if space is very tight.
• Car-to-X communication: In 2013, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to introduce widespread car-to-car networking in the form of a retrofit solution. This is now to be followed by the logical next step as the world's first fully integral Car-to-X solution goes into series production. The mobile phone-supported exchange of information with other vehicles further ahead on the road, for example, can effectively allow the driver to "see around corners" or "through obstacles" well in advance. This means that the driver receives an earlier warning than previously in the event of imminent danger, such as a broken down vehicle at the edge of the road or also in the event of heavy rain or black ice on the road ahead. In this case the new E-Class simultaneously acts as a receiver and a transmitter, since warning messages are conveyed automatically by evaluating vehicle statuses or manually by the driver to the backend.
• PRE-SAFE^® impulse side: This system is part of the Driving Assistance package PLUS. If a lateral collision has been detected and is imminent, it moves the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone in a sideways direction by way of precaution. To do this, the system inflates an air chamber in the side bolster of the front seat backrest nearest the side of the imminent impact in a fraction of a second, thus increasing the distance between occupant and door and, at the same time, reducing the forces acting on the occupants.
• PRE-SAFE^® Sound: This system is based on a human reflex in the inner ear, called the stapedius reflex. PRE-SAFE^® Sound emits a short interference signal through the vehicle's sound system if the risk of a collision is detected. This signal can trigger the natural reflex and thus prepare the occupants' ears for the expected sound of the accident.
• High-resolution MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, each with 84 individually controlled high-performance LEDs, automatically illuminate the road with a hitherto unsurpassed, precision-controlled distribution of exceptionally bright light – without dazzling other road users. That's because this grid allows the light distribution of the left and right headlamps to be controlled separately and adapted to the changing situation on the road quickly and dynamically. All functions of the Intelligent Light System in low-beam and high-beam mode can furthermore be depicted purely digitally and without mechanical actuators for the first time, including, as a world first, a purely electronically implemented active light function.
• Digital Vehicle Key: This drive authorisation system uses Near Field Communication technology and allows the driver's smartphone to be used as a vehicle key.

Multifunction Telephony – ideally connected, and not a cable in sight

An all-new infotainment generation is making its debut in the E-Class equipped with COMAND Online. Its highlights, alongside the double display, include the touch-sensitive Touch Control Buttons on the steering wheel and the new, intelligent graphic design of the Multifunction Telephony. It allows mobile phones to be charged and connected to the vehicle's exterior aerial – with absolutely no need for cables or a telephone holder. The wireless, inductive charging system works

with all mobile devices that either support the Qi standard or can be upgraded to this standard. The charging pad, built into the stowage facility at the front of the centre console, is compatible with mobile phones with a screen diagonal of up to 15.2 cm (6 inches). When the "NFC" logo is touched, the system connects the mobile phone to the head unit and the exterior aerials via Near Field Communication (NFC). Telephone calls are then routed via the Bluetooth^® hands‑free system automatically.

Three-dimensional listening pleasure

Fitted as standard, the Mercedes-Benz-developed Frontbass system in the new E‑Class delivers a unique listening experience. It uses the space in the cross-member and side member of the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers. If the vehicle is additionally equipped with the optionally available Burmester^® high-end 3D surround sound system with 23 loudspeakers, the occupants are treated to a listening experience reminiscent of the acoustics in a concert hall as it includes a third dimension of sound courtesy of roof loudspeakers.

Robust yet lightweight bodyshell

An outstandingly stiff body forms the basis for exceptional handling, astonishingly low noise and vibration levels, and a high level of crash safety. To achieve this, the engineers opted for a bodyshell with a far higher proportion of aluminium and ultra-high-strength steel components than its predecessor. The front wings, bonnet, boot lid, and large sections of the front and rear ends are made of sheet or cast aluminium. This lightweight design reduces fuel consumption and makes for tangibly sporty and agile vehicle handling.

Against the wind

Aerodynamic performance is one of the main reasons behind the outstanding efficiency of the new E-Class. Here the E-Class raises the benchmark with a record-breaking drag coefficient (cd value) of 0.23. To achieve this, the aerodynamics experts had to optimise numerous details and implement new ideas. By way of example, the AIRPANEL Advanced shutter system, available for most engines in the EXCLUSIVE line and base models, opens the radiator grille by means of adjustable louvres when extra cooling is required and additionally features a second shutter in

the air intake beneath the number plate to further improve the system's overall performance. Plus the sophisticated aerodynamics minimise wind noise and ensure that the new E-Class is quieter than even some luxury-class models.

E350 e

E220 d Avantgarde 

E220 d Avantgarde

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