2015 Mazda CX-9 will available for sale soon. The current model of this car is getting rave reviews from consumers and critics. It even has received an award as the best North American Truck. It is certainly something to be proud of because not all cars have a chance of getting such a high-profile award. Many people are actually surprised since there are a lot of cars with astounding performance in this class. They guessed that the Buick Enclave is the one with the biggest chance of winning, but the CX-9 proved them wrong. Well, there is nothing wrong with this car winning the award because it really deserved it despite the strong contenders. There are some significant changes that you can see on the new generation of this car. The new features are quite promising. This is good news for those of you who have been waiting for the new model since a long time ago.

If you want the car to look sporty, then it’ll be your wishful thinking. In all honesty, this car will look less athletic, but it would still look elegant. If you pay attention to details of this new car, then you will realize that it is not as clumsy as the previous model. Another noticeable change is the wider wheelbase. The car is allegedly to come with a bigger size than the CX-7. Well, if it turns out to be true, some of you may be happy. That would be perfect to carry more passengers. The best thing about the new generation is it still maintains the elegant exteriors. There would be chrome accents that will make the car look modern and stylish. This trick has been used by many companies. Chrome does accentuate a modern impression of a car. The interiors are no less outstanding. These parts still look gorgeous. Since the frame of this car is enlarged, the interiors can accommodate more people. The second and third rows will be more spacious. You can carry more people if you wish.

Now let’s disclose the specs. In the engine department, this car will be powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine produces up to 273 horsepower and 270lb-ft of torque. That is quite an improvement over the previous model. It was said that the car might not come with a transmission option. We can not confirm the story yet. We all just have to wait until the official press release. The only option is a 6-speed auto transmission. You can expect the production begin from the early month of next year. This three-row crossover is a favorite family car. This car is widely popular in Canada. Other than the aforementioned features, this car will have new headlights, a new grille design, and enhanced vents.

 In the SUV category, this car can be compared head to head with the Toyota Highlander. The Highlander truly shines with its traditional SUV design. The same thing can be said about the CX-9 as well, but both actually present “traditional” in a different way. In terms of design and frame, both are robust. They also have exteriors and interiors which are equally sophisticated. Now if you compare their performances, there is a slight difference that you will see. The 2015 Mazda CX9 is really designed as a city car. It has all the things to drive down the asphalt roads. The car is also equipped with a firm suspension. It offers smooth driving even at high speeds. Comfort is what we expect from a city car. We do not want a car that’s shaking while it runs in high speeds. You can rely on this car’s performance. The interiors are far from disappointing. At least when we talk about convenience, this car is to be trusted with. It can accommodate 7 passengers and each one has spacious legroom.

BANGKOK, Thailand, Mar. 23, 2015 – Ford unveiled its new tough and smart Ford Ranger today, setting a new benchmark in the pickup truck segment with an uncompromised blend of robust capability, craftsmanship and advanced technology. Starting later this year, an updated range of the truck will take on the world in more than 180 markets worldwide.^{^}

“The new Ford Ranger brings a new level of comfort and refinement to its segment without compromising on the rugged capability that our customers demand,” said Brett Wheatley, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford Asia Pacific. “It represents a smarter kind of tough, and will help our customers to achieve more, whether at work or with their families.”

Featuring a new look front end, and a stylish, smart and functional new interior, the new Ranger builds upon a reputation of capability, innovation and comfort that has helped the Ranger to stand apart from traditional pickup trucks. It also boasts an array of new cutting-edge technologies that enable new and more practical solutions to everyday challenges.

The changes to the Ranger begin with an updated exterior design. A bold, more modern look lends Ranger a powerful presence on the road, and immediately conveys a sense of capability.

A more muscular hood flows into a strong new trapezoidal grille, while imposing projector headlamps make the truck instantly recognizable, with a bold, technical look.

“When you look at how our customers use their vehicles, it’s important that a Ranger looks and functions as a tough, dependable tool,” said Dave Dewitt, exterior design manager, Ford Asia Pacific. “We saw an opportunity to give the design extra tension, and to emphasize Built Ford Tough design elements like the outboard nostrils – all while maintaining the Ranger’s excellent aerodynamic characteristics.”

The updated exterior has been combined with a stylish new interior that creates an even more comfortable, contemporary and car-like environment for the driver and passengers. Strong horizontal lines run across the width of the cab, giving a sense of openness, and framing the central eight-inch touchscreen. Behind the steering wheel, a new dual-TFT instrument cluster provides drivers with information about the vehicle, as well as entertainment, navigation and climate control details at a glance.

“The interior of the new Ranger is sleek and modern, with a strong technical aspect to it,” said Dewitt. “Accentuating the design, we’ve chosen materials that are stylish and attractive while being durable enough to handle the harsh life of a work truck. The interior may look more car-like, but it’s as practical as ever.”

The Ford Ranger remains one of the most capable trucks in its class. With a class-leading ability to wade through water up to 800 mm deep, and with 230 mm of ground clearance, it is designed and engineered to handle the most extreme terrains with ease. Thanks to a 28-degree approach angle and 25-degree departure angle, drivers in the new Ranger can feel confident when taking on steep obstacles.

A robust electronically controlled transfer case allows drivers in 4×4 models to shift on the fly from 4×2 to 4×4 high with a knob on the center console. For low-speed torque or additional downhill braking, drivers can also engage low-range 4×4 gearing, while an electronic locking rear differential helps to improve traction in difficult conditions. These off-road strengths are matched by towing capability of up to 3,500 kg and exceptional payload capacity.

The Ranger achieves all this with a level of refinement not usually seen in the pickup truck segment. While the current Ranger already sets the standard for ride and handling, Ford engineers fine-tuned its suspension for additional comfort and even better handling.

The driving experience is further enhanced by an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which provides precise steering with a natural and confident feel. With EPAS, steering is light and manageable for low-speed maneuvering, such as parking, and precise at higher speeds – with assistance varying as necessary based on speed, steering wheel angle, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration. By eliminating the power steering pump used in a traditional power-steering system, EPAS also results in a quieter vehicle and improves fuel efficiency by about three percent.

Engineers also fitted the new Ranger with advanced sound-deadening materials and improved insulation for one of the quietest and most comfortable cabin interiors in its class.

A host of cutting edge technology is available on the new Ford Ranger to help drivers stay connected and in control.

SYNC 2, the latest generation of Ford’s in-car connectivity system, gives drivers smarter and safer ways to stay connected. Using natural voice commands, like “temperature 20 degrees”, “play AC/DC” or “I’m hungry”, the driver can control the car’s climate controls, entertainment system and navigation system more easily than ever before. An eight-inch touchscreen places more controls at the driver’s fingertips, with color-coded corners for easy menu navigation.

For extra convenience, the new Ranger features a 240-volt power socket that can be used to power a laptop computer anywhere, from a work site to a family road trip.

There is also an array of driver assist technologies that help to make your drive more convenient.

The new Ranger’s impressive power, capability, and payload and towing capacity are made possible thanks to powerful and efficient engines paired to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. All four engines available provide Ranger customers a winning combination of power and efficiency in all conditions, and help to underscore Ford’s fun-to-drive promise.

For maximum power and torque for heavy-duty towing, Ford is offering the latest generation of its globally proven 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine. Upgrades including an updated exhaust gas recirculation system help to improve fuel efficiency by up to 18 percent, while still putting out 147 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque.

Equipped with the latest generation of Ford’s 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine, the Ranger delivers significantly improved fuel efficiency and refinement while also providing the power Ranger customers demand. Depending on the market, Ford will offer a standard 2.2-liter engine, which generates an improved 118 kW of power and 385 Nm of torque, or a high-efficiency (96 kW) variant for up to 22 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The new Ranger is also available with Ford’s dependable 2.5-liter Duratec petrol engine, providing 122 kW of power and 225 Nm of torque^#.

Maximizing the efficiency of its engines, the new Ford Ranger is available with Automatic Start/Stop Technology, which saves fuel by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is idling, such as at a stop light, improving fuel economy by up to 3.5 percent. On the move, an available longer final drive ratio boosts fuel economy at highway speeds.

Ford will manufacture the new Ranger at its AutoAlliance Thailand facility in Rayong, Thailand for distribution throughout Asia Pacific, its Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, South Africa for distribution in Africa and Europe, and its Pacheco Stamping and Assembly Plant in Argentina for distribution in Latin America.

The new Ranger will be launched in South Africa in the fourth quarter of 2015. SA specs and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.

 

Akhirnya spesifikasi terperinci bagi Mazda MX-5 generasi terbaharu sudahpun keluar. Memang sudah lama ditunggu, dan bagi mereka yang sudah lama menanti mari kita terus menelitinya.

Mazda MX-5 terkini ini bertujuan untuk mengembalikan falsafah ‘Jinba Ittai’ atau ‘penunggang dan kuda  bersatu’ yang telah hilang pada generasi ke-3 model ini (dikenali sebagai NC). Model terkini ini bukan sahaja akan mengembalikan keseronokan memandu, tetapi juga menerapkan sekali teknologi Skyaktiv dan rekaan Kodo – Soul of Motion.

Konsep Skyaktiv adalah sangat penting bukan sahaja kerana ia mementingkan alam sekitar dan keselamatan penumpang, tetapi juga kerana ia berkisar mengenai pengurangan berat. Ini adalah antara sebab kenapa kereta ini adalah sehingga 100kg lebih ringan dari sebelumnya.

Rekaan

Direka sebagai roadster yang seronok dipandu, tumpuan juga diberi untuk memberi kereta ini rupa yang menawan – dan sepertimana generasi yang pertama (dikenali sebagai NA), ia juga mempunyai bumbung yang boleh dilipat.

Pengurangan berat kereta ini banyak dicapai dengan penggunaan aluminium yang tinggi; ini termasuk untuk bahagian bonet dan boot, fender hadapan serta juga bampar (depan dan belakang). Bahkan komponen suspensi termasuk upper dan lower arm, sokongan hab, dan juga bingkai enjin.

Usaha-usaha tambahan untuk merendahkan lagi berat termasuk membuang permukaan pada komponen dalam cara yang tidak kompromikan kekuatan yang ada.

Sekarang bukan sahaja MX-5 terbaharu ini mempunyai berat yang lebih kurang sama dengan model generasi pertama, tetapi juga dikecilkan berbanding generasi sebelum ini (NC). Misi untuk mendapatkan saiz yang kompak membawa hingga panjang keseluruhan yang kurang daripada model NA iaitu 3,915mm. Ukuran-ukuran lain adalah seperti berikut, dan dibandingkan dengan MX-5 generasi NC.

Dinamik Pemanduan

Enjin yang dipasangkan pada MX-5 ND adalah pilihan diantara 1.5-liter ataupun 2.0-liter Skyaktiv yang ditala khas untuk roadster ini. Pilihan kotak gear pula adalah antara manual 6-kelajuan ataupun automatik 6-kelajuan.

Agak degil pula pihak Mazda, kerana mereka masih belum mendedahkan output sebenar enjin-enjin ini. Yang diberikan adalah angka yang didapati daripada objektif mereka – iaitu 129hp pada 7,000rpm dan 150Nm pada 4,800rpm. Ini hanya untuk enjin 1.5-liter; tiada pula anggaran untuk enjin 2.0-liter. Kesemua kuasa diberikan kepada roda-roda belakang berukuran 195/50R16.

Berbeza dengan sangkaan awal kami, tiada pilihan enjin yang dipasang pengecas turbo.

Unit stereng menggunakan bantuan kuasa elektrik (electric steering).

Suspensi hadapan menggunakan double wishbone dan di belakang pula adalah multi-link.

Bila dilihat kembali, rasa-rasanya macam banyak lagi yang belum diceritakan oleh Mazda. Sebagai sebuah roadster yang direka untuk mengembalikan keseronokan memandu sepertimana yang begitu terkenal diberikan oleh model NA asal, yang paling penting untuk diketahui adalah sama ada ini telah dicapai.

 

Pada Januari 6 lepas, pihak Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia telah mengumumkan bahawa komponen ‘brake booster’ dan ‘V-ribbed belt’ bagi model-model CBU Lancer, Lancer Sportback, Lancer Evolution dan ASX perlu diperiksa. Jika perlu, ia kemudiannya akan diganti.

Perkembangan terbaharu pula datang daripada Proton, yang menyatakan bahawa unit ‘Drive Belt Pulley’ untuk model Inspira dipercayai mungkin mengalami kerosakkan selepas jarak atau keadaan pemanduan tertentu. Kenderaan Inspira yang dimaksudkan khusus bagi yang dihasilkan diantara September 2010 sehingga Mei 2011.

Kelusuhan komponen ‘Drive Belt Pulley’ ini kemudiannya dipercayai akan mengakibatkan kehilangan kemampuan bateri dan kenaikan suhu enjin. Bantuan daripada sistem stereng kuasa juga mungkin akan berkurangan.

Mengikut Proton, sebanyak 5,280 unit Inspira terbabit di dalam isu ini. Oleh itu, pemilik-pemilik Inspira berdasarkan masa pengeluaran yang dinyatakan tadi digesa untuk menghubungi mana-mana pusat servis Proton sah untuk menetapkan temujanji bagi memperbaiki komponen berkaitan. Tiada kos untuk servis yang diperlukan. Surat juga telah dihantar kepada pemilik-pemilik terbabit.

Proton Ispira adalah model sedan segmen-C yang berasaskan model Lancer daripada Mitsubishi. Ia diperkenalkan ke pasaran Malaysia pada November 2010.

 

Following a teaser image and some eager anticipation, here is the all-new 2015 Suzuki Vitara, launched in all its glory at the on-going Paris Motor Show. Produced at the company’s Magyar Suzuki plant in Hungary and soon to be exported around the world, the new Suzuki Vitara looks like it will now slot into the Japanese carmaker’s range just under the SX4 S-Cross – something we spied in Malaysia recently.

With reports of the Grand Vitara nameplate facing the axe, the all-new Suzuki Vitara doesn’t grow much to replace its outgoing bigger brother. Instead, given the dimensions shared with us, the Suzuki Vitara stands only slightly taller and wider than the Ford EcoSport.

Key dimensions:

Suzuki also assures us that the car’s off-road toughness will go undeterred, while in keeping up with the times, the compact SUV also gains a bunch of new infotainment and connectivity tech, and some impressive safety features.

Powertrain and performance:

Two engine choices will be available for the Vitara: a 1.6-litre petrol with 118hp and 156Nm of torque, and a 1.6-litre diesel which makes 118hp and 320Nm of torque – both existing mills from Suzuki’s arsenal.

The petrol engine gets two transmission choices: a five-speed manual or a new six-speed torque converter automatic with manual shift control. The diesel on the other hand will have to settle for a solo six-speed manual.

Suzuki’s ALLGRIP all-wheel drive technology is available, and comes standard with four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock. In short, the clever AWD system  can detect any wheelspin at the front, and instantaneously sends torque to the rear wheels to regain traction. The feature has been recently updated to better predict front wheel slip.

Exterior & Interior Styling:

From the outside, the recognisably rugged Suzuki image is easy to spot, but what’s also clear is the contemporary design and modern offerings such as the LED headlamps with blue projector covers.

More than anything, there are up to 15 different exterior colours to choose from, giving way to the Vitara’s newfound personalisation capabilities, inside and out.

A lot of it has to do with colours, which with the Vitara, you get to choose different colours not only for the main body paint, but also get to decide what colours you’d have things like the front grille to the body claddings and more in.

The colour personalisation continues inside the car, but in keeping up with the times, you do also get a seven-inch touchscreen display, which features a 3D navigational map, and updated connectivity equipment – think Bluetooth, USB and more.

Features & Equipment:

Engine start/stop technology is no stranger to the all-new Vitara, which also boasts a tyre pressure monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, ESP, and limited to higher grade variants, a Radar Brake Support system (RBS).

RBS works similarly to Honda’s Crash Mitigation Brake System, which uses miliwaves to prevent or mitigate collisions. Should the radar detect a potential collision, it will warn drivers with a buzzer. Should drivers react slowly to this, the RBS will prepare an increased brake pressure. Should drivers still not do anything, the car will automatic jam on the brakes.

Is it coming to Malaysia?

For now, all the specifications mentioned here are of the all-new Suzuki Vitara at its best, and we can’t say for sure if the spec sheet, or the car itself will be launched in Malaysia – at least until we hear something official from Suzuki Malaysia.

However, with cars like the Peugeot 2008, Ford EcoSport and the coming Honda HR-V all being launched one after the other, it wouldn’t make too poor sense for Suzuki Malaysia to consider this. It all depends on how the market reacts to it, in which case, we imagine a lot of favour in the way of the Honda HR-V.

What we do know is that Suzuki Malaysia are working on the SX4 S-Cross which we spied recently. The S-Cross is larger than the regular SX4 we know here, sized similarly to a Mitsubishi ASX. A Malaysian launch in 2015, maybe?

Kuala Lumpur: Honda Malaysia akan melancarkan HR-V (Hip and Smart Runabout Vehicle), kenderaan utiliti sukan kompak (SUV) generasi baru Februari depan.

Honda dalam kenyataannya berkata, model berkenaan dijangka akan mendapat sambutan baik di Malaysia memandangkan ia menggabungkan ciri-ciri kelapangan, mesra pengguna dan mempunyai pelbagai fungsi.

“Pada dasarnya HR-V serba baru ini adalah gabungan keindividuan dan kegunaan yang sempurna,” katanya.

Kenderaan yang digerakkan oleh enjin 1.8 liter i-VTEC SOHC yang dibina pada transmisi boleh laras berterusan dibangunkan di bawah Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology yang memberi tumpuan ke atas penambahbaikan prestasi pemanduan serta ekonomi bahan api.

Sempena pelancaran berkenaan, Honda akan menjalankan siri jelajah di kompleks membeli-belah terpilih di Kuala Lumpur, Pulau Pinang, Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru dan Sungai Petani.

The Spark-Renault SRT_01E is the first car to be homologated by the FIA. Using the very latest technology, the zero emission SRT_01E aims to stretch the boundaries of what is currently achievable in electric motorsport, whilst ensuring a balance between cost-effectiveness and sustainability, in addition to coping with the demands of racing entirely on street circuits.

It has been built by new French company Spark Racing Technology, led by the renowned Frédéric Vasseur, together with a consortium of some of the leading companies in motorsport. Italian firm Dallara, who boast more than 40 years' motorsport experience, have constructed the monocoque chassis, aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking. Made from carbon fibre and aluminium, the chassis is both super lightweight and incredibly strong and fully complies with the latest FIA crash tests - the same used to regulate Formula One.

Providing the electric powertrain and electronics is McLaren Electronics Systems, the world leader in high-performance technology for motorsport. Meanwhile, Williams Advanced Engineering, part of the Williams group of companies that includes the world famous Williams F1 Team, will supply the batteries producing 200kw, the equivalent of 270bhp. This will be linked to a five-speed paddle shift sequential gearbox, supplied by Hewland, with fixed ratios to help reduce costs further.

Overseeing all the systems integration will be the Championship's Technical Partner Renault, a leader of electric vehicles and an expert in motorsport thanks to its Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1 programmes. Specially designed 18" treaded tyres will be supplied by Official Tyre Partner Michelin, capable of providing optimum performance in both wet and dry conditions.

Specification

Design

Technology

Dimensions

Power

• Maximum power: 200kw, equivalent to 270bhp
• Race mode (power-saving): 150kw, equivalent to 202.5bhp
• FanBoost (race-only): Temporarily increases max power from 150kw to 180kw. (Increase of 30kw / 40.5bhp)

Maximum power will be available during practice and qualifying sessions. During races, power-saving mode will apply with the FanBoost system temporarily allowing maximum power for a limited time of 5 secs per car.

The amount of energy that can be delivered to the MGU by the RESS is limited to 28kwh. This will be permanently monitored by the FIA.

Performance

• Acceleration: 0 - 100 km/h (0-62mph) in 3 secs
• Maximum speed: 225 km/h (150mph)

Power unit

Traction battery

RESS

Chassis

Gearbox

• Hewland paddle-shift five-speed sequential gearbox
• Fixed gear ratios to reduce costs

Brakes

Wheels & tyres

Electronics

Suspension

Steering system

Safety

Sound

Formula E knows that the noise of any racing car is very important to its fans, which is why the sound of the new Spark-Renault SRT_01E will be one of the championship's most unique and exciting features. Contrary to popular belief, the Formula E cars are far from silent producing a modern, futuristic sound, combined with the fusion of the tyres on the track, the car's aero package and the electric drivetrain itself.

At high speed the sound produced by one SRT_01E will be approximately 80 decibels, more than an average petrol road car which produces around 70db.

Tyres

Tyres are one of the most crucial elements in modern day motorsport which is why Formula E has chosen leading French company Michelin as its Official Tyre Partner for the first three seasons.

Drawing upon its many years’ of experience, Michelin has developed a bespoke 18-inch treaded tyre that is unique to Formula E and usable in both wet and dry conditions. Michelin will supply tyres that will not only deliver exciting racing but also cope with the demands of the abrasive street circuits and all-weather conditions.
Michelin is the world's largest tyre manufacture and as well as boasting a long and impressive motorsport pedigree, it is also highly committed to sustainable mobility and improving safety on our roads.

Safety

As with all FIA championships, safety remains of paramount importance to Formula E in all aspects from the Spark-Renault SRT_01E car, right through to promoting good driving practices to fans.
The SRT_01E itself will comply with the 2014 FIA safety standards - the same used to regulate Formula One - and will feature safety measures such as carbon fibre front and rear impact structures, Diolen anti-intrusion side panels, cockpit head surround protection and wheel tethers. It will also undergo front, side, rear and steering column impact tests together with front and rear roll-hoop impact structure and monocoque push tests.

Safety

Tak kiralah sama ada pemandu kereta, lori, van, bas sekolah, kereta kebal, motosikal berkuasa rendah dan sebagainya termasuk helikopter.

Biasanya amalan ini dilakukan pada waktu pagi sebelum ke tempat kerja atau ke sebarang destinasi. Ada yang memanaskan enjin selama satu minit. Ada yang memanaskan selama 5 minit. Ada yang keluar rumah, hidupkan enjin kereta, masuk rumah, sarapan, pakai stokin, pakai kasut, kunci pintu dan baru terhegeh-hegeh masuk kereta untuk memulakan perjalanan. Makan masa dalam 15 minit juga. Golongan kaki panaskan enjin seperti itumesti bangun awal. Semua ini dilakukan kononnya demi untuk menjaga enjin. Demi untuk memastikan jangkahayat enjin panjang dan sentiasa berprestasi tip top.

Soalnya sekarang adakah pemanasan enjin ini perlu dilakukan? Apa kebaikannya dan apa keburukannya? Lagi satu kalau anda bijak laksana, siapa orang yang mula-mula panaskan enjin kenderaan di Malaysia ni?

Di negara-negara yang mementingkan penjagaan alam sekitar untuk kehidupan dunia yang lebih baik di masa mendatang, pemanasan enjin adalah tidak digalakkan dan sesetengahnya ditegah. Negara Kanada telah memulakan kempen nasional mereka untuk mengurangkan pemanasan enjin yang tidak diperlukan. Kempen yang sama turut dilakukan di Jepun , United Kingdom dan di Amerika Syarikat. Ada di antaranya sudah menetapkan satu undang-undang bahawa enjin kenderaan tidak boleh dibiarkan hidup dalam keadaan idling melebihi 5 minit atau 3 minit bagi kenderaan ringan. Kenapa perkara ini ditegah?

The Canadian Office of Energy Efficiency telah bersetuju bahawa cara yang terbaik untuk memanaskan enjin adalah dengan memandunya. Walaupun suhu persekitaran berada di takat -20 darjah selsius, mereka menyarankan enjin kenderaan hanya perlu dipanaskan pada sekitar 15-30 saat sebelum meluncur ke jalanraya. Bayangkanlah berapa agaknya suhu di Malaysia?

Salah seorang jurutera penghantaran kuasa di Ford, Amerika Syarikat iaitu Les Ryder berkata, “Engines run best at their design temperature”. Berdasarkan kenyataan Encik Les Ryder itu, operasi enjin yang cekap, bersih dan efisien hanya berlaku pada suhu enjin di tahap 85-90 darjah selsius. Oleh itu membiarkan enjin anda di dalam keadaan idling adalah bukan cara yang terbaik atau terpantas untuk memanaskan enjin. Lebih baik jika memandunya atau dengan kata lain stylel Amerika, lagi ‘gentle’ kalau pandu terus. Jadi berikut antara bahaya atau keburukkan dalam amalan yang tidak betul ini.

DINDING SILINDER CEPAT HAUS

Tabiat memanaskan enjin atau membiarkan enjin berada di dalam keadaan pepura (idling) dikatakan adalah satu perkara yang tidak baik dan berfaedah. Pertamanya ia menyebabkan pembakaran bahanapi tidak dapat dilakukan dengan sempurna. Pembakaran tidak lengkap membawa kesan buruk kepada dinding silinder. Sisa bahan api yang tidak terbakar akan turun ke dinding silinder lalu membersihkan minyak pelincir yang berada di dinding silinder. Maka apa yang terjadi adalah dinding silinder akan mengalami kehausan akibat tiada pelinciran di bahagian sepatutnya. Bahan api yang tidak terbakar juga boleh jadi akan turun perlahan-lahan ke bahagian takung minyak pelincir. Apabila ia bergaul, sifat minyak pelicir akan berubah dan hilang kecekapannya.

PALAM PENCUCUH MENJADI KOTOR

Di samping itu, tabiat ini juga boleh mendatangkan masalah kepada palam pencucuh. Ia akan menganggu suhu kerja palam pencucuh. Palam pencucuh yang tidak berada di suhu sepatutnya akan menjadi kotor. Oleh yang demikian ia akan mendatangkan kesan kepada peningkatan bahan api sebanyak 5%.

PAIP EKZOS CEPAT BERKARAT

Pada waktu pagi, sesetengah kenderaan biasanya akan mengeluarkan wap dari ekzos. Wap itu bukanlah wap minyak daripada enjin yang mengalami kehausan. Ia adalah wap air normal yang terhasil daripada enjin yang sejuk. Jadi apabila terlalu lama enjin dibiarkan dalam keadaan pepura (idling), bertambah lama untuk enjin mengambil masa untuk panas. Ini menyebabkan wap air akan sentiasa berada di dalam sistem ekzos yang mana akan menjadikan paip ekzos cepat berkarat.

FUNGSI ENJIN GAGAL BERFUNGSI DENGAN BAIK

Kenderaan pada masa kini biasanya akan terdapat sebuah komponen yang dinamakan Catalytic Converter pada sistem ekzosnya. Kereta-kereta Malaysia pun dah mula guna pakai. Komponen ini disediakan bertujuan untuk mengurangkan tahap toksik yang terdapat pada sisa atau hasil pembakaran sebuah enjin pembakaran dalaman. Antara kerja yang dilakukan komponen ini termasuklah menukarkan karbon monoksida kepada karbon dioksida, mengurangkan nitrogen oksida kepada nitrogen dan air, mengoksidakan hidrokarbon yang tidak terbakar kepada karbon dioksida dan air dan sebagainya. Jadi faedah yang boleh diperolehi daripada komponen ini ialah pencemaran udara dapat diminimakan.

Walaubagaimana pun, masalah yang timbul jika enjin berada di dalam keadaan pepura (idling), komponen ini tidak berfungsi. Maka enjin dengan sesuka hati dapat mencemarkan udara. Komponen ini akan berfungsi hanya pada tahap suhu 400 – 800 darjah selsius yang dimana adalah pada satu kadar suhu yang sangat panas berbanding enjin. Semasa suhu itu ia akan bertindak menukar bahan tercemar dari sisa pembakaran enjin kepada bahan yang kurang berbahaya kepada alam sekitar. Bagi memastikan komponen ini cepat dan dapat berada di suhu yang mana ia boleh beroperasi, anda perlulah memandu. Bukan meninggalkan kereta hidup terbiar. Semakin lama enjin dibiarkan dalam keadaan idling maka semakin lama juga Catalytic Converter ini tidur dan tak bekerja. Anda rasa apa agaknya yang terjadi kepada alam sekitar?

MEMBAZIR DAN MENCEMARKAN

Sekarang kita sudah mengetahui serba sedikit tentang keburukan memanaskan enjin. Ada tiga kesan yang penting di situ iaitu membazir bahan api, mencemarkan alam sekitar dan memunah wang ringgit. Mari kita lihat apa pula kebaikkan memanaskan enjin. Khabar-khabar angin mengatakan memanaskan enjin juga ada faedahnya. Salah satu perkara yang disebut adalah semasa enjin ditinggalkan di dalam satu tempoh yang agak lama, iaitu mungkin sehingga satu malam, bahan pelinciran akan turun meninggalkan komponen yang bergerak di dalam enjin ke bahagian bawah enjin.

Jadi apabila kita mula menghidupkan enjin, kita perlu mengambil sedikit masa untuk memanaskannya supaya dapat memberi peluang bahan pelinciran itu naik dan beredar di setiap inci dan penjuru komponen dalaman enjin. Ya perkara ini benar. Tetapi apa yang anda perlu tahu bahawa setiap enjin telah dilengkapkan dengan satu komponen yang dipanggil pam minyak pelincir. Pam minyak pelincir ini dijana oleh pusingan crankshaft. Makin laju crankshaft berpusing maka makin cepat pam bahan api berpusing seterusnya mengagihkan minyak pelincir ke bahagian dalaman enjin. Untuk memastikan crankshaft ini berpusing laju apa yang anda perlu buat? Adakah dengan hanya membiarkan enjin dalam keadaan idling?

Kesimpulannya di sini tabiat memanaskan enjin di waktu pagi yang kononnya lagi lama lagi bagus adalah satu mitos yang tidak diketahui hujung pangkalnya. Perkara ikut-ikutan seperti ini bukanlah satu perkara yang asing bagi kita rakyat Malaysia. BMW sendiri pun cukup pantang kalau orang warm up enjin keretanya. Sebab mereka tahu jika enjin cepat rosak nanti mesti pelanggan mengadu. Sebab itu kalau boleh BMW nak lepas hidup saja enjin kereta, terus pandu cepat-cepat. Jangan tunggu-tunggu. Ini tidak, siap boleh masuk rumah pekena roti dua tiga keping, layan teh dulu sambil sembang-sembang dengan isteri tapi enjin kereta terbiar hidup.

Seperkara lagi yang boleh membantu mengurangkan pencemaran alam sekitar dan pembaziran bahan api adalah dengan mematikan enjin jika kenderaan anda tidak bergerak. Kalau tunggu kekasih turun LRT, berhenti tepi jalan bergayut dengan telefon, tunggu bini masuk pasar mini beli barang dapur, dan tunggu anak balik sekolah depan pagar sekolah bawa bawalah matikan dulu enjin. Perkara itu tidak memberi sebarang faedah langsung malah boleh menyebabkan masalah pencemaran udara dan alam sekitar serta pembaziran wang ringgit. Sedarkah anda di dalam tempoh setahun, sikap mengurangkan enjin dibiarkan hidup dalam keadaan idling ini mampu menjimatkan beratus ribu juta ringgit dan mampu menghentikan perlepasan jutaan tan gas rumah hijau ke atmosfera yang membawa pemanasan global.

Sebuah syarikat automotif, Liechtenstein berjaya menghasilkan sebuah kereta sport yang mampu bergerak pada kelajuan maksimum 350 kilometer sejam dengan hanya menggunakan air garam.

Mail Online melaporkan, kereta yang dikenali sebagai Quant e-Sportlimousine itu dibina oleh syarikat NanoFlowcell AG dengan menggunakan sistem enjin aliran elektrolit untuk menggerakkannya.

 Sistem enjin tersebut mempunyai persamaan dengan kenderaan mesra alam yang menggunakan hidrogen sebagai bahan api utama, cuma yang berbeza adalah kereta itu mampu mencapai kelajuan 100 kilometer sejam dalam tempoh masa 2.8 saat itu menggunakan air garam.

Quant e-Sportlimousine mula menjadi perhatian selepas membuat penampilan pertama dalam pertunjukan Motor Show di Geneva pada Mac lalu, teknologi enjin air garam itu kini dibenarkan digunakan di negara-negara Eropah.

Setakat ini masih belum ditetapkan harga dan bila kereta sport terbabit akan dikeluarkan, dengan sesetengah pakar permotoran berpendapat nilai Quant e-Sportlimousine boleh mencecah lebih daripada AS$ 1.7 juta (RM5.39 juta).

Pengerusi NanoFlowcell AG, Prof. Jens-Peter Ellermann berkata, kereta tersebut telah mendapat sijil kebenaran untuk digunakan di negara-negara Eropah.

“Kami mempunyai perancangan masa yang panjang dan tumpuan bukan hanya dalam ruang lingkup perusahaan automotif sahaja.

“Potensi untuk NanoFlowcell AG amat besar terutamanya dalam terma pembekal sumber tenaga domestik termasuklah untuk kegunaan maritim, kereta api dan penerbangan,” jelas Ellermann

Nowadays, people seem always to need a car, especially for people who work far from their home. It would be great to have a car that will take you anywhere you want. There are a lot of cars you can choose. You should remember that not all cars could be suitable for you. If you are looking for a good designed car that will fit with your little family, then you should wait for 2014 Ford ranger

Rumor has it that Ford has designed a new ranger for their customers. The design will be the same with T6 platform underpinning the current ranger. There is not much we can know about this 2014 Ford Ranger, but one of the sources said that this new car show concept has been completed in recent weeks. The car will be designed as seven-seat ranger SUV, so it would be perfect for you and your little family. It was also designed for Asian, South-east Asian and Australian markets. 

The name of this new car remains mystery because the Ford team did not say much about it. But they make sure that this new 2014 Ford Ranger will be the improvement for the previous model. The look for this new car might borrow the wagon styling from the current Ford models such as Explorer and the homegrown Territory. So the look might be familiar to most of you, but sure this new car has several improvements. Ford will make sure that they will add new features that can make this car perfect for you. When you are looking for a new car, you should know what kind of car you need is. If you need a family car that does not look like a boring family car, then 2014 Ford is your answer.

Under the hood, this car is also equipped with a powerful engine. This 2014 Ford Ranger has 2.3 liters i4 engine capacity. It is a large capacity of a pickup car. By that engine capacity, this car can produce power up to 143 HP at 5,250 rpm. Besides that, this car also has 5 speeds manual transmission.

There is still no information about the price of 2014 Ford ranger. It might be not so different with the price of the current Ford model. It might be a little bit more expensive than the current model because of all the improvement for this new car. So you better start saving from now so when the time the Ford reveal about the price of 2014 Ford comes, you can be ready to purchase it. Buying a car might not be easy because there are a lot of things you should consider. But the new Ford Ranger can be the car that you need and you want.

Bila sebut biawak, nak nak lagi biawak komodo, tentu ramai yang terbayang kengerian, kegelian dan kehodohan binatang yang satu ini. Lagipun, ia adalah haiwan pembangkai yang sentiasa dikaitkan dengan sifat pengotornya.

Tapi, sehodoh-hodoh haiwan ini, ada syarikat automotif yang mengambil idea darinya dalam menghasilkan sebuah kenderaan SUV yang diberi nama KOMODO: 

The very first word that I uttered upon setting my eyes on the image of the vehicle is a bit too strong for the print. Suffice that the word has currency far and wide and it begins with the letter ‘F’ and no its not (F-I-S-H)!

The images you see here are a study by one Mr. Makrand Patil, understandably, from the celebrated Istituto Europeo di Design, Turin whither he received his rightful degree. The vehicle in these pics, Komodo, is an SUV design which Makrand completed in collaboration with Mahindra.

Conforming to the dragon of Komodo Island, the vehicle in question looks as menacing as the very Monitor it has been named upon, and one can be sure that if brought into production, it will bite like one too.

The rear, or what could be seen of the rear, of the vehicle looks as beautifully chiselled as the one seen on a Merc CLS from early 2000 (or does it?). The face, on the other hand, is qualified enough to smite the eye of the onlooker with its huge, recessed nostrils. A Dakar dune-buggy designed for daily use; and paid up by a Sheikh, would look similar to this concept.

Allow me to point your attention to those huge wheels and the knobby tires! They give one the idea that they would take you up to the Mars if you care to lay up a surface for them to grip upon. And given the expanse of the vehicle, the interiors should, one would believe, have enough and more space for a few recliners along with 65” plasma home theatre system.

An incredibly bold attempt by Mr. Patil, we say!

Would Mahindra care to build it then? They have the funds and temerity to give the designer a free reign, why not! Or if you aren’t interested, Mahindra, shall we pass the design along to the Jabalpur Vehicle Factory? Perhaps an army commander from western sector will find it his worthwhile.

Or, if you, my discerning reader, wish for the Komodo and really want to hustle it up, call up DC in Mumbai.

Mahindra Komodo SUV Pic Gallery (Credit: Carscoops.com)

This week, Automotive News released a series of articles describing its vision for the five-year product pipelines of Japan’s three smaller automakers — Mitsubishi, Subaru, and Mazda. The articles are a compilation of rumors, facts, and info from inside sources that attempt to paint a picture of what we can expect from these three through the end of the decade or thereabouts. No matter which segment you love, there will be something good for you coming out of the woodwork.

Most of the cars on this list come from Mazda; Subaru refreshed almost all of its new-car lineup just last year, and Mitsubishi is in a bit of a “what-are-we-doing”, soul-searching phase as it figures out how to compete in the U.S. Either way, there’s something for everybody in this parade of upcoming new cars:

Whether or not we like them, there’s no denying that American buyers are going cuckoo for crossovers, especially small ones. Mitsubishi’s Outlander Sport is but one crossover in that group, and the brand behind the moniker is looking for new ways to keep itself viable. According to AN, the Outlander Sport should receive a new look for the 2016 model year. Considering that Mitsubishi’s success in the U.S. is very limited, we think some fresh styling could go a long way with the market.

(Current Outlander Sport shown.)

Mazda builds some great driving cars, and we have high hopes for the next iteration of the automaker’s subcompact hatchback. We’ve already seen the styling — which rocks — but the car doesn’t enter production until about Thanksgiving. Power will come from a 1.5-liter four-banger, which should be much more fun to operate than any three-cylinder out there (we’re looking at you, Mitsubishi Mirage). Ford Fiesta aside, the subcompact segment could use a dose of fun, and the Mazda2 looks to be the one delivering.

Enthusiasts love the Mazdaspeed3; it’s a turbocharged, front-wheel drive wagon with a manual transmission and a chassis that loves to get tossed around. The current-generation Mazda3 has yet to produce a Speed3 variant, and AN believes that won’t change until the 2017 model year, when the Mazda3 lineup as a whole is set to receive an aesthetic refresh. This segment is currently on fire, with the Mini Hardtop Cooper S and the Volkswagen GTI both receiving updates this past year. It’s going to be a good decade for thrifty speed.

(Standard Mazda3 hatchback shown.)

AN didn’t report on this one, but your author did attend the media drive for the all-new 2015 Subaru Legacy. As it stands, every Legacy comes with a CVT, and neither of its engine options (H-4 or H-6) are really up to the task of delivering a proper sporty ride. That’s why we think Subaru should come out with a Legacy GT using a little bit of parts-bin engineering. Borrow the six-speed manual and the turbocharged flat-six from the STI, drop it in the Legacy, adjust the suspension for a stiffer ride, and you’ve got a guaranteed winner in the mid-size segment. There is no Mazdaspeed6, and the Accord Sport is only moderately sporty, so we think the Legacy GT could take the segment by storm.

(Current Legacy shown.)

Mazda has been hyping its all-new upcoming MX-5 for the last few months, and we won’t see it in the flesh until next month. In the meantime, though, we can say with confidence that this is the number one car to look forward to from these brands. The MX-5 has always been about driving, first and foremost — it’s small, it’s rear-wheel drive, and it’s beloved by track rats the world over. We expect the new Miata to sport the same front end as the rest of Mazda’s lineup, but the rear end is anybody’s guess. Either way, we absolutely cannot wait to see it.