2012 New Toyota PRIUS

In addition, the new facelift model of Toyota Prius also launched together with the new Prius C. New in the refreshed Prius are a revised front bumper with larger lower grille, LED daytime running lights, redesigned LED tail lights, power retractable wing mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels with new aerodynamic caps. The audio system is now a 6.1-inch touch screen type that supports MP3/USB/ AUX/Bluetooth and also doubles up a reverse camera screen. The Prius luxury variant gets additional items such as LED headlights with auto levelling and washer system, chromatic auto dimming rear view mirror and leather seats with heating elements.

The Prius line up is available in four colours of Siver Metallic, White Pearl, Abyss Gray and Bordeaux Mica.

The Prius and Prius luxury variant come with on-the-road with insurance prices of RM139,900 and RM145,500 respectively.

The improved Prius line-up and new Prius c will be available at selected Toyota Showrooms in Peninsular Malaysia from Feb 24, and East Malaysia from March 2 onwards.

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All-New Prius C Launched For Malaysia Market

Not too long after the Toyota Prius C (known as ‘Aqua’ in Japan) went on sale in Japan, this particular model has begin rolling out to other regional market gradually. According to Toyota Japan, the introduction of the Prius C is aimed to make the Toyota hybrid cars more affordable. Precisely, to be even more reasonably priced than the Honda Insight 1.3 IMA. Prior the launch, we are shocked to see the price is higher than its rival in Malaysia.

Now, we are glad to know the price of the new Prius C was essentially positioned correctly after the launch @ RM 97,000 on-the-road. Indeed, the estimated price was previously announced @ RM 103,990 earlier before the launch by UMW.

The Prius C is powered by a state-of-the-art, small, light and efficient 1.5-litre (1,496 cc – Engine Model: 1NZ-FXE) Toyota hybrid system with reduction gear. It comes with a selectable electric-vehicle mode (EV Mode) enables driving with only the electric motor. The maximum output @ 73kW from the hybrid powerplant.

The aerodynamic styling provides a comfortable interior in a compact body. The hybrid battery (Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH)) has been placed under the rear seat for maximum occupant and luggage space. The hybrid unit and engine are positioned to create a low centre of gravity for easy manoeuvring. Somehow, the overall package is feature-rich (from performance to safety aspect) and attractively priced.

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2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid 1.5-litre Launched in Malaysia

Recently, the long awaited 2011 Honda CR-Z made its debut and launched in Malaysia after the latest announcement in the Budget 2012 about the full exemption of import duty and excise duty for Hybrid models (for 2.0-litre or below) until December 2013. The CR-Z is the third hybrid vehicle that Honda introduces to Malaysians, after the Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight.

Technically, the CR-Z is designed to deliver exceptional fuel economy while offering an entertaining and engaging driving experience. It combines an efficient 84-kilowatt (114PS) 1.5L SOHC i-VTEC engine, a 10-kilowatt (14PS) electric motor and a sophisticated Intelligent Power Unit (IPU).

Additionally, the All-New CR-Z is the first model to feature Honda’s versatile 3-Mode Drive System, which enables the driver to choose and switch modes seamlessly depending on their driving style and road situation. The three modes in the CR-Z alters the responses of the throttle, steering, idle stop timing, climate control and the level of assistance provided by the IMA Hybrid System.

In safety aspect, the All-New CR-Z has been rated one of Japan’s safest cars in 2010, having been awarded the 6-Star JNCAP rating. The CR-Z is equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) which offers a more stable and sturdier drive while the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure enhances self-protection. The CR-Z also complies with Pedestrian Impact Requirements where head and chest injuries to the pedestrian are minimised during an accident.

The 2012 Honda CR-Z Hybrid 1.5-litre is selling at RM 115,000.00 on-the-road with insurance in Peninsular Malaysia

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2011 Lexus CT 200H Hybrid

Lexus Malaysia announced today, the introduction of the Lexus CT 200h, the world’s first full hybrid luxury compact to the Malaysian luxury car enthusiasts.

The Lexus CT 200h is a five-door hatchback that combines the vitality of agile driving with advanced environment performance, dynamic and sporty styling. The Lexus CT 200h is also equipped with the Drive Mode Select Switch that allow the driver to easily switch from relaxed to dynamic driving mode, experiencing different steering feels and gauging the driving mode as denoted by the colour change in the instrument panel and the lights within the cabin.

The new model offers smooth performance and class leading fuel efficiency which is best in the premium compact segment. The Lexus Hybrid Drive technology effectively reduces fuel consumption through the perfect fusion of the electric motor and the 1.8 litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine. It has a very high level of clean emissions in compliance with the world’s strictest EURO 5 standard.

The Lexus CT 200h luxury variant features the newly developed suspension supported by performance dampers to achieve agile handling and riding comfort.

The all new Lexus CT 200h is priced at RM 168,000 while the Luxury variant, with more upgraded specifications is priced at RM 196,500 (on-the-road price, without insurance).

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Honda Resumes Taking INSIGHT Orders

Honda Insight

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd's Alor Gajah plant will resume full production on Aug 1, and will try to increase production units by operating additional hours to catch up with the shortage of supply from April through July.

The company has also started accepting new bookings of the Insight hybrid from Wednesday.

Honda Malaysia managing director and CEO Yoichiro Ueno said: "Honda associates in Japan have worked tirelessly with our suppliers since the disaster in March to recover the supply of component parts from Japan.

"Hence, we are pleased to announce that we are be able to resume full production much earlier than previously expected."

Insight bookings were suspended on April 7 following a parts shortage in the aftermath of Japan quake and tsunami.

All other Honda models are not effected and orders can be placed at any authorised Honda dealers nationwide.

-Bernama

Honda Insight

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Microsoft will help connect Toyota cars to Internet

SEATTLE — Microsoft Corp and Toyota Motor Corp unveiled a plan on Wednesday to work together on bringing internet-connected services to Toyota's cars.

The world's biggest software company and the biggest automaker said they were investing 1 billion yen or about $12 million in Toyota Media Service Co, a Toyota unit that handles its digital offerings for customers.

The unit will focus on combining telecommunications and data for drivers in the form of GPS, multimedia, and managing power on electric and hybrid vehicles.

Toyota is planning to set up a network based on Microsoft's Azure "cloud computing" platform by 2015, which would allow customers across the world access to Toyota's digital services.

One of the services Toyota is planning will monitor and integrate a person's power usage across the home and car to maximize efficiency.

The partnership with Toyota is a departure for Microsoft, which so far has focused most of its auto industry technology efforts on Ford Motor Co.

Source: http://www.msnbc.msn.com

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All-New Honda INSIGHT was Unveiled

Honda Insight

Against general perceptions that hybrid cars are not widely accepted or attainable due to their perceived impractical designs or expensive price tags, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd introduced the All-New Insight to the Malaysia market at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2010 (KLIMS 2010). This newly launched entry hybrid model broke new grounds with its combination of appealing design and practical functions, allowing more Malaysians who desire to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle to do so effortlessly without compromising on style, practicality and the fun of driving.

The resulting concept is a compact 5-door hatchback entry hybrid model that features an aerodynamic shape exterior inspired by the Aero Athlete design concept. The sharp wedge shaped body that ends with an aero tail sparks off an athletic motion that is both exciting and functional. The overall athletic feel is further enhanced by muscular yet elegant bodylines that flex a well-defined dynamic tension. Along with an advanced and futuristic interior design, it serves well as a ride that is both fun-to-drive and practical.

Technically, the All-New Insight is created to cater for exceptional fuel economy. It is powered by Honda’s new generation of Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) System that ingeniously recaptures and stores kinetic energy from vehicle braking and deceleration, and supplies additional power for acceleration when needed. It consists of a 65-kilowatt (88PS) 1.3liter SOHC i-VTEC engine, a 10-kilowatt (14PS) electric motor and a newly improved Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) that has been made 19% more compact and 28% lighter in size for the All-New Insight. This smaller and more compact IPU has been relocated under the floor of the cargo area to create a 400-litre trunk space that could accommodate up to 3 golf bags; and a 60:40 split backseat that can be folded down flat to give a 584-litre flat cargo load area.
Its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) has been further enhanced to provide a smoother drive with high torque for rapid performance, a fluid uphill drive, better engine braking and quieter ride.

To further guide owners to realize the full benefits of Insight, it features a new interactive, driver-focused fuel economy assist technology called the Ecological Drive Assist System (Eco Assist). It combines multiple functions: a driver-activated ECON mode (stands for Effective Control) that optimizes control of the CVT, engine and related powertrain components to further improve vehicle fuel efficiency; a driver feedback function that uses an innovative speedometer display with changing background colours to provide real-time guidance to the driver on achieving higher fuel efficiency; and a unique fuel-economy scoring function using a plant-leaf graphic to provide feedback to the driver on current-trip driving efficiency and lifetime fuel-efficient driving performance.

In terms of safety standard, the All-New Insight has obtained a 6-star JNCAP safety rating for driver and 5-star JNCAP safety rating for passengers.

In Malaysia, the All-New Insight is targeted at eco-oriented individuals who believe in doing their part to protect the earth for future generations. It is also intended for independent and image conscious young professionals who are aware of eco issues, and would consider using environmentally friendly products if they offer great value with practicality and style.

The All-New Insight comes in four colours -- Premium White Pearl; Dyno Blue Pearl II; Alabaster Silver Metallic; and Crystal Black Pearl.

Honda Insight

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Prices Of Hybrid Cars Expected To Be More Attractive Next Year

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21 (Bernama) -- The prices of hybrid cars are expected to be more attractive next year to boost sales after Budget 2011 announcement of duty exemptions for the cars below 2,000 cc until Dec 31, 2011.

President of Malaysian Automotive Association, Datuk Aishah Ahmad, said currently, hybrid cars in Malaysia were expensive where fewer than 300 cars had been sold.

"The prices will definitely go down next year. At the moment, the industry players are doing the pricing," she told a media briefing after the launch of KL International Motor Show 2010's (KLIMS'10) advertising and promotional campaign here today.

The campaign, entitled 'We Care', was launched by Tourism Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen.

Aishah said the granting of a manufacturing plant licence to Berjaya Corp Bhd by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry for the assembly of commercial vehicles, hybrid cars, electric cars and luxury passenger vehicles was a good sign for Malaysia's motor vehicle industry.

"This may attract more investors to come to Malaysia and it will be a good opportunity for the industry," she said.

KLIMS'10, which will be held from Dec 3-12 this year, is expected to attract 330,000 visitors and tourists.

The event will be held at Putra World Trade Centre.

Source : BERNAMA

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Honda CR-Z launched in 3-D

NEW YORK: The Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe was launched to great fanfare in New York's Times Square yesterday. It was also the first time a car launch used 3-D technology.

Honda will be screening 3-D CR-Z commercial footage on the Times Square HD Spectacolor screen, located on Broadway between 46th and 47th Street.

Members of the public will receive special glasses to view the TV footage, which will run from 10am (10pm in Malaysia) to 6pm (6am today in Malaysia). They will also be able to interact with the car.

"To bring attention to the duality of sport and hybrid that the CR-Z offers, the advertising campaign relies on a bevy of nontraditional elements—like 3-D technology—to get the attention of young, potential CR-Z buyers," said American Honda Motor Co, Inc senior manager of national advertising Tom Peyton.

"This 3-D experience in Times Square uniquely integrates advertising, gaming and music into a single, memorable event."

To liven up the event even more, Sony will provide 3-D Gran Turismo 5 racing simulators that will feature the CR-Z. Honda is sponsoring a performance by hip-hop trio, N.E.R.D and Maxim Magazine models will distribute copies of their 3-D October issue.

Source: http://www.star-monitoring.com/

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2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid Review

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

The Honda CR-Z, a two-passenger, gasoline-electric hybrid car with a sporty bent, goes on sale this fall (third quarter 2010) in U.S.

The CR-Z is not a sports car and will not replace the Honda S2000 that was discontinued in 2009. Rather, it's the descendant-apparent to Honda's CRX of 20 years ago.

CR-Z (Compact Renaissance Zero, among the more believable interpretations) is based loosely on an existing Honda small-car platform. Relative to the subcompact Honda Fit, the CR-Z is shorter and five inches lower but wider, lending a hint of low and wide that characterizes sports cars.

A four-cylinder gasoline engine, probably an advanced 1.5-liter tuned to 115-120 hp, and a small electric motor (approximately 13 hp/55 lb-ft) will use the integrated motor assist (IMA) architecture of other Honda hybrids, sandwiching the electric motor between the gas engine and the transmission. The CR-Z is the first hybrid to use a six-speed manual gearbox, though Honda has experience with manual hybrids in the previous Civic and knows how to build a good shifter.

CR-Z's mission is to make a fun-to-drive, economical, clean car with modern conveniences and safety equipment requirements. That's a tall order, but Honda's Insight hybrid will rotate in a corner if you push it. The original Honda CRX, the Mazda Miata and VW GTI have shown one doesn't need huge power and speed to make a car that's thoroughly enjoyable to drive.

An inverted gull wing lower front spoiler and angular light housings fit right into Honda family styling cues, giving a clean leading edge to a stocky wedge, and triangular rear side windows and wraparound taillights make the rear pillar the shape of a boat's radar arch. As on the Honda Insight the rear window is split between the fastback on top and a vertical panel above the rear bumper.

Expect an instrument panel with central tachometer and inset digital speedometer framed by graphics for engine info, warning lights and economy data. Most controls will be on stubby pods on the sides of that panel or the multifunction steering wheel, for an uncluttered dash. Despite the diminutive fastback styling, Honda's clever packaging should allow enough cargo space to hold some overnight bags, if not the ubiquitous two sets of golf clubs.

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

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Infiniti M35 Hybrid set for production

Infiniti's first production hybrid, the M35 HYBRID, is set to go on sale in spring 2011, and is based on the all-new Infiniti M sedan, which itself picks up styling cues from Essence, the show-stopper that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

Infiniti’s hybrid system, developed solely within Infiniti’s parent group, is a one electric motor/twin clutch arrangement - the first clutch is installed between the naturally-aspirated 3.5l V6 and the electric motor. The result of this elegant engineering configuration, with all components acting on a single propshaft to the rear differential, is a consistent driving feel and linear response under all conditions.

The electric motor acts as both propulsion unit, boosting the V6 in “power assist” mode when maximum acceleration is required, and also as a generator. As well as charging the battery in the normal way, the motor recovers energy otherwise lost during deceleration and braking. The M35 HYBRID will also be able to run solely on its electric motor in certain driving conditions.

Several new technologies will also be introduced on this one, such as a new laminated lithium-ion battery pack that is the same size as conventional batteries but offers twice the power and runs cooler.

Source: star-motoring.com

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