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EntertainmentAutoblogGaming Roundup | 'Rocket League' teams up with X Games
This week in gaming news, "Rocket League" developer Psyonix teams up with the X Games for an in-game event, "The Crew 2" gets an update, and "Ride 4" goes next-gen. Psyonix, the developer of the physics-based car soccer game "Rocket League" has teamed up with X Games in celebration of X Games Aspen 2021, the winter-weather extreme sports competition happening at the end of this month. The "Rocket League" event started a bit earlier than that, though, just yesterday.
BusinessAutoblogVinFast debuts VF32 and VF33 electric crossovers, and both are U.S.-bound
VinFast said it was going to introduce an electric vehicle for the U.S. in the past, and today looks like its shining day. Its footprint is nearly identical to that of a Chevrolet Traverse, so it’s big, but not Chevy Tahoe big. The rear three-quarter angle brings the Lincoln Aviator to mind, but it’s not a blatant ripoff or copy of any one vehicle.
LifestyleAutoblogPaul Walker's BMW M1 is up for auction
This 1980 BMW M1, previously part of the AE Performance collection (Paul Walker and Roger Rodas), is up for sale again. It is believed to be one of just ten examples modified by German BMW dealer AHG. BMW's mid-engine supercar was already a spectacular homologation special that was ultimately little more than a race car for the road.
BusinessAutoblogTesla's infotainment upgrade gets 40% discount after NHTSA recall order
Tesla cut the cost of its infotainment upgrade by 40% about a week after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) asked it to recall nearly 159,000 cars due to a defective touchscreen. While the upgrade brings an array of new features while deleting older ones, it also fixes the problem identified by the agency. Owners of a Model S or a Model X built before March 2018 can buy the infotainment upgrade, which the firm calls simply Infotainment Upgrade, via the Tesla App.
LifestyleAutoblog2021 Ford Ranger MS-RT is another cool Ranger variant we won't get
The U.S. is the pickup truck capital of the world, made clear by vehicles such as the Ram TRX, F-150 Raptor and Colorado ZR2. First there was the Ranger Raptor that made it to nearly every Ranger market but here (though that may change with the next generation). Now there's the Europe-only 2021 Ford Ranger MS-RT that adds a heaping helping of street-oriented sporty styling.
TechnologyAutoblog2021 Ram 1500 Infotainment Driveway Test | Bigger IS better
The 2021 Ram 1500 comes standard with a simple 5-inch touchscreen, while the 8.4-inch version found on most versions as standard equipment is the same user-friendly unit found elsewhere in the Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram line up. Unlike all those other brands in the North American Stellantis empire (ugh), however, the Ram offers a unique take on the Uconnect: a 12-inch vertically oriented touchscreen. While other cars offer similarly tall screens, such as the Subaru Outback, Ford Explorer and every Volvo, none do such an exceptional job of taking advantage of the orientation and size.
LifestyleAutoblogHere's what else you could buy for the average new-car price of $40,573
The average price of a new car in America hit a new record in December 2020: $40,573. Managing Editor Greg Rasa: $40,000 will buy a fully loaded Camry or moderately equipped crossover. This 2006 Aston Martin DB9 Volante in Georgia has 21,452 miles on it, and depreciation has worked its cruel magic: It is listed for less than one-quarter of its $168,000 starting MSRP when it was new.
LifestyleAutoblogPlug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler 4xe gets First Edition model in Europe
Jeep detailed the First Edition variant of the plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe that it will launch in Europe in early 2021. As is typically the case, the First Edition builds on the standard 4xe with a generous list of standard equipment and a handful of model-specific styling cues. Black, Granite Crystal, and Bright White are the only options on the First Edition palette.
LifestyleAutoblogTired of waiting for the VW I.D. Buzz? Check out this Tesla-powered Microbus
If you’re like me, you’re sick and tired of waiting for VW to release the I.D. Buzz electric van. If you’re also like me, you don’t have the money for either the I.D. Buzz or a vintage VW bus anyway, so those feelings are pretty much moot. Unless you head over to Omaze, where they’re giving away an electric 1966 VW Bus, plus $20,000 in cash.
BusinessAutoblog2021 BMW X3 Review | The sensible driving machine
It's funny to think of a BMW SUV as an almost default choice in a segment, but the 2021 BMW X3 sure seems like exactly that. With a diverse range of models including the mass-volume xDrive30i, the plug-in hybrid xDrive30e and uber-performance X3 M, BMW's compact crossover represents a good place to start regardless of your needs, wants and expectations.
TechnologyAutoblogHurtan Grand Albaycin is a Mazda MX-5 Miata dressed in a vintage suit
Spanish coachbuilder Hurtan rivaled Mitsuoka in the eccentricity department by introducing the Grand Albaycin, a Mazda MX-5 Miata-based roadster with a design that tilts heavily towards the retro side of the scale. Carmakers often frown on aftermarket tuners rebodying their models, but this convertible earned Mazda's nod of approval. Founded in the 1980s by Juan Hurtado, Hurtan specializes in giving modern cars that look that wouldn't be fully out of place in the 1950s, and the Grand Albaycin is no exception.
BusinessAutoblogDodge's 710-horsepower 2021 Durango SRT Hellcat is sold out
In the summer of 2020, Dodge announced it would only build the 710-horsepower Durango SRT Hellcat for six months, but it didn't tell us how many examples it would make in that time. In other words, if you haven't reserved a Durango SRT Hellcat yet, you might get lucky and find one in a store's inventory. Dodge stuffed its vaunted 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 behind the Durango's grille and supercharged it to 710 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque.
BusinessCarmudiKia PH to bolster customer trust with increased parts availability
Kia Philippines is changing the perception of the brand in aftersales support as they boost efforts that would ensure better service to customers. The focus to bolster consumer confidence is being done under the leadership of Manny Aligada, the president of the Ayala-backed automotive brand. Aligada proudly expressed that Kia customers can now enjoy readily-available parts with the initiative designed to build sturdier relationships with new buyers and existing Kia owners, starting with drastic increased parts availability. During their recent virtual roundtable Thursday, Kia Philippines Aftersales Director Rommel Ramos revealed that they have increased their inventory on parts five times, making sure they have ample supply within their facilities. Aligada and Ramos had a common belief that the first car that is sold through sales “while the succeeding vehicles are by aftersales.” Aside from that, other initiatives include partnering with logistics firm DHL to ensure timely delivery of parts and that they will never run out of the parts they need. These parts, Ramos told reporters, now covers more than 10,000 part numbers to be used in preventive maintenance service, mechanical portions as well as those that are usually affected during collisions. According to Ramos, these parts that they consider to keep in stock are the ones frequently-used as well as those that are usually damaged as reflected on the insurance claims of their customers. In an interview, Ramos told Carmudi Philippines they have started to make their own study to learn what parts should be included in their stock after only having very-limited 2,000 part numbers (more or less) that covers around 15 current and old models. He also told Carmudi that the stockpiling of parts started in December. These parts are stored in a 2,500 square-meter facility in Carmona, Cavite that they used since July 2019. Out of the total lot area, the 2,000 square meters were used as warehouse while the remaining is for training and their aftersales headquarters. With Aligada’s goal of bringing in more models this year, Ramos said that the warehouse can still house the initial 1,500 part numbers per model. The Kia president bared that last year, the brand experienced a major slowdown in aftersales service—declining the total number by half—following the constraints caused by the pandemic and other disasters. Such programs would definitely give that oomph needed for 2021 and a morale booster as they celebrate their third year anniversary on January 30. With these reassuring efforts, it would be no surprise if their target to increase market share and the triple digit sales growth for 2021 is within their reach. Photos from Kia Philippines Also read: Kia PH launches My Year, My Kia to welcome 2021 Kia PH 'changes tune,' to unbox all-new model in Q4 of 2020 Kia unveils latest logo, strategy
NewsCarmudiAbalos to DPWH: fix lighting along major thoroughfares
The leadership of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) requested the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to improve the lighting along major thoroughfares in the metro to avoid potential road mishaps. The newly-appointed MMDA Chair Benhur Abalos made the request, saying that the fixtures contribute to reducing accidents. “Public safety is our utmost priority. Only one busted or broken light would endanger lives,” Abalos mentioned at the meeting with the officials of DPWH and Department of Transportation (DOTr). “Without the street lights, our motorists and commuters are in danger. Part of road safety is making the road visible to all its users,” he added. Meanwhile, the DPWH Undersecretary Robert Bernardo vowed to fix all street lights along major thoroughfares and to turn it over to the agency within 10 days. Bernardo even said that they will shoulder the electric bill of all the road lights until it is transferred to the MMDA. However, Bernardo noted that there are thieves stealing lights and other electrical fixtures on selected major thoroughfares, especially tunnels and underpasses. “We will continue cooperation with the MMDA and the LGUs to make sure that all the street lights are working,” Bernardo assured. Those who will be caught stealing such are deemed to face charges, Bernardo said. Further, Abalos appealed for inter-agency collaboration to make sure that major thoroughfares are maintained to be well-lit. For the DOTr’s part, its road sector senior consultant Bert Suansing expressed support for Abalos and his initiatives to alleviate traffic in Metro Manila such as construction of elevated bus ramps. “We support Chairman Abalos in pushing for safer roads and pedestrian-friendly walkways,” he said. Photos from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Also read: Balintawak Market receives latest round of clearing ops from MMDA, QC gov't MMDA Chair Abalos wants no flooding in MM Newly-appointed MMDA chair bares plans for agency
BusinessCarmudi2020 Kia K2500: The 5 main variants in detail
The Kia K2500 is as varied as a light commercial vehicle can get, offering buyers a staggering amount of customization options that include personal preferences in air conditioning, rear body, and even drive wheel configuration. The Kia K2500 is driven by a 2.5L CRDi turbocharged engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. This pairing helps this van dish out 128hp and 255Nm of torque. The engine kowtows to the Euro-4 Standard, giving you an efficient commercial vehicle, both in performance and emissions. The vehicle started off with only three variants, but that number has since grown to ten. Unfortunately for us, Kia PH was only able to give specs and numbers on five main variants, namely: Single Cab Cab and Chassis 4x2, Single Cab Closed Van 4x2, Single Cab Karga 4x2, Single Cab Dropside 4x4, and Double Cab Dropside 4x4. The 2020 Kia K2500 has a price range of PHP820,000 to PHP1.22 million. Check out the differences between the five variants below. Single Cab Cab and Chassis 4x2 MT (PHP820,000) SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions (Cab and Chassis) (mm): 4825 x 1740 x 1995 Dimensions Rear Body: Not Applicable Wheelbase (mm): 2415 Overhang Front/ Rear (mm): 1205/ 1205 Wheel Tread Front/ Rear (mm): 1490/ 1460 Minimum Ground Clearance (mm): 200 Minimum Turning Radius (m): 5.6 Permissible Axle Weight (kg) Front/ Rear: 1500/ 1950 Curb Weight (kg): 1745 Payload Capacity (kg): 1235 Fuel Tank Capacity (L): 60 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 2980 POWERTRAIN Engine Type: 2.5L In-Line 4 Cylinders, DOHC, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with WGT Diesel Displacement (cc): 2497 Maximum Output (hp/ rpm): 128/ 3800 Maximum Torque (Nm/ rpm): 255/ 1500-3500 Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Steering: Rack and Pinion Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive Brakes Front/ Rear: Disc/ Drum Suspension Front/ Rear: Torsion Bar Spring/ Multi-Leaf Spring Wheel Type: 15-inch Steel Tire Size: 195 R15 Spare Tire: Steel EXTERIOR Headlamps: Halogen Front Bumpers: Body Color Exterior Rear View Mirrors: Black, Manual Adjustable and Folding Turn Signal Indicators: Front Doors Antenna: Mounted on A-Pillar Front Windshield Wipers: Standard Outside Door Handles: Front, Black Rear Combination Lamps: Standard INTERIOR Instrument Panel: Speedometer, Tachometer, Trip Computer Driver/Passenger Sunvisors: Standard Interior Rear View Mirror: Day and Night Room Lamp: Standard Dashboard Trim: With Silver Trim Steering Wheel Type: 2-Spoke Polyurethane Column: Fixed Gear Shift Knob: Polyurethane Parking Brake: Standard Power Windows: Standard Glove Box: Standard Seat Material: Vinyl Seating Capacity: Three (3) Air Conditioning: Front; Manual with Thermostat Rear Body Lamp: Not Applicable INFOTAINMENT Number of Speakers: 2 SAFETY & SECURITY Seatbelt Front 3pt. ELR with x 2 Single Cab Closed Van 4x2 MT (PHP920,000) SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions (Cab and Chassis) (mm): 4825 x 1740 x 1995 Dimensions Rear Body (mm): 3048 x 1829 x 1829 Wheelbase (mm): 2415 Overhang Front/ Rear (mm): 1205/ 1205 Wheel Tread Front/ Rear (mm): 1490/ 1460 Minimum Ground Clearance (mm): 200 Minimum Turning Radius (m): 5.6 Permissible Axle Weight (kg) Front/ Rear: 1500/ 1950 Curb Weight (kg): 2145 Payload Capacity (kg): 835 Fuel Tank Capacity (L): 60 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 2980 POWERTRAIN Engine Type: 2.5L In-Line 4 Cylinders, DOHC, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with WGT Diesel Displacement (cc): 2497 Maximum Output (hp/ rpm): 128/ 3800 Maximum Torque (Nm/ rpm): 255/ 1,500-3500 Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Steering: Rack and Pinion Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive Brakes Front/ Rear: Disc/ Drum Suspension Front/ Rear: Torsion Bar Spring/ Multi-Leaf Spring Wheel Type: 15-inch Steel Tire Size: 195 R15 Spare Tire: Steel EXTERIOR Headlamps: Halogen Front Bumpers: Body Color Exterior Rear View Mirrors: Black, Manual Adjustable and Folding Turn Signal Indicators: Front Doors Antenna: Mounted on A-Pillar Front Windshield Wipers: Standard Outside Door Handles: Front, Black; Rear, Dual Stainless Rear Combination Lamps: Standard INTERIOR Instrument Panel: Speedometer, Tachometer, Trip Computer Driver/Passenger Sunvisors: Standard Interior Rear View Mirror: Day and Night Room Lamp: Standard Dashboard Trim: With Silver Trim Steering Wheel Type: 2-Spoke Polyurethane Column: Fixed Gear Shift Knob: Polyurethane Parking Brake: Standard Power Windows: Standard Glove Box: Standard Seat Material: Vinyl Seating Capacity: Three (3) Air Conditioning: Front: Manual with Thermostat Rear Body Lamp: Not Applicable INFOTAINMENT Number of Speakers: 2 SAFETY & SECURITY Seatbelt: Front 3pt. ELR with x 2 Single Cab Karga 4x2 MT (PHP1.1 Million) SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions (Cab and Chassis) (mm): 4825 x 1740 x 1995 Dimensions Rear Body (mm): 3052 x 1740 x 1684 Wheelbase (mm): 2415 Overhang Front/ Rear (mm): 1205/ 1205 Wheel Tread Front/ Rear (mm): 1490/ 1460 Minimum Ground Clearance (mm): 200 Minimum Turning Radius (m): 5.6 Permissible Axle Weight (kg) Front/ Rear: 1500/ 1950 Curb Weight (kg): 2145 Payload Capacity (kg): 835 Fuel Tank Capacity (L): 60 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 2980 POWERTRAIN Engine Type: 2.5L In-Line 4 Cylinders, DOHC, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with WGT Diesel Displacement (cc): 2497 Maximum Output (hp/ rpm): 128/ 3,800 Maximum Torque (Nm/ rpm): 255/ 1500-3500 Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Steering: Rack and Pinion Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive Brakes Front/ Rear: Disc/ Drum Suspension Front/ Rear: Torsion Bar Spring/ Multi-Leaf Spring Wheel Type: 15-inch Steel Tire Size: 195 R15 Spare Tire: Steel EXTERIOR Headlamps: Halogen Front Bumpers: Body Color Exterior Rear View Mirrors: Black, Manual Adjustable and Folding Turn Signal Indicators: Front Doors Antenna: Mounted on A-Pillar Front Windshield Wipers: Standard Outside Door Handles: Front, Black; Rear, Chrome Rear Combination Lamps: Standard INTERIOR Instrument Panel: Speedometer, Tachometer, Trip Computer Driver/Passenger Sunvisors: Standard Interior Rear View Mirror: Day and Night Room Lamp: Standard Dashboard Trim: With Silver Trim Steering Wheel Type: 2-Spoke Polyurethane Column: Fixed Gear Shift Knob: Polyurethane Parking Brake: Standard Power Windows: Standard Glove Box: Standard Seat Material: Vinyl Seating Capacity: Nineteen (19) Air Conditioning: Front: Manual with Thermostat; Rear, Manual Rear Body Lamp: Dual INFOTAINMENT Number of Speakers: 2 SAFETY & SECURITY Seatbelt: Front 3pt. ELR with x 2 Single Cab 4x4 Dropside MT (PHP955,000) SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions (Cab and Chassis) (mm): 4825 x 1740 x 2105 Dimensions Rear Body (mm): 2810 x 1630 x 355 Wheelbase (mm): 2415 Overhang Front/ Rear (mm): 1205/ 1205 Wheel Tread Front/ Rear (mm): 1490/ 1460 Minimum Ground Clearance (mm): 200 Minimum Turning Radius (m): 5.6 Permissible Axle Weight (kg) Front/ Rear: 1500/ 1950 Curb Weight (kg): 2145 Payload Capacity (kg): 1235/835/835 Fuel Tank Capacity (L): 60 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 2112 POWERTRAIN Engine Type: 2.5L In-Line 4 Cylinders, DOHC, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with WGT Diesel Displacement (cc): 2497 Maximum Output (hp/ rpm): 128/ 3,800 Maximum Torque (Nm/ rpm): 255/ 1,500-3,500 Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Steering: Rack and Pinion Drivetrain: Four Wheel Drive Brakes Front/ Rear: Disc/ Drum Suspension Front/ Rear: Torsion Bar Spring/ Multi-Leaf Spring Wheel Type: 15-inch Steel Tire Size: 195 R15 Spare Tire: Steel EXTERIOR Headlamps: Halogen Front Bumpers: Body Color Exterior Rear View Mirrors: Black, Manual Adjustable and Folding Turn Signal Indicators: Front Doors Antenna: Mounted on A-Pillar Front Windshield Wipers: Standard Outside Door Handles: Front, Black Rear Combination Lamps: Standard INTERIOR Instrument Panel: Speedometer, Tachometer, Trip Computer Driver/Passenger Sunvisors: Standard Interior Rear View Mirror: Day and Night Room Lamp: Standard Dashboard Trim: With Silver Trim Steering Wheel Type: 2-Spoke Polyurethane Column: Fixed Gear Shift Knob: Polyurethane Parking Brake: Standard Power Windows: Standard Glove Box: Standard Seat Material: Vinyl Seating Capacity: Three (3) Air Conditioning: Front; Manual with Thermostat Rear Body Lamp: Dual INFOTAINMENT Number of Speakers: 2 SAFETY & SECURITY Seatbelt: Front 3pt. ELR with x 2 Double Cab 4x4 Dropside MT (PHP995,000) SPECIFICATIONS Dimensions (Cab and Chassis): 4825 x 1740 x 2105 Dimensions Rear Body: 2185 x 1630 x 355 Wheelbase (mm): 2415 Overhang Front/ Rear (mm): 1205/ 1205 Wheel Tread Front/ Rear (mm): 1505/ 1460 Minimum Ground Clearance (mm): 200 Minimum Turning Radius (m) 5.6 Permissible Axle Weight (kg) Front/ Rear: 1500/ 1950 Curb Weight (kg): 2145 Payload Capacity (kg): 1235/835/835 Fuel Tank Capacity (L) 60 Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 2156 POWERTRAIN Engine Type: 2.5L In-Line 4 Cylinders, DOHC, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with WGT Diesel Displacement (cc): 2,497 Maximum Output (hp/ rpm) 128/ 3,800 Maximum Torque (Nm/ rpm): 255/ 1,500-3,500 Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Steering: Rack and Pinion Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive/Four Wheel Drive Brakes Front/ Rear: Disc/ Drum Suspension Front/ Rear: Torsion Bar Spring/ Multi-Leaf Spring Wheel Type: 15-inch Steel Tire Size: 195 R15 Spare Tire: Steel EXTERIOR Headlamps: Halogen Front Bumpers: Body Color Exterior Rear View Mirrors: Black, Manual Adjustable and Folding Turn Signal Indicators: Front Doors Antenna: Mounted on A-Pillar Front Windshield Wipers: Standard Outside Door Handles: Front, Black Rear Combination Lamps: Standard INTERIOR Instrument Panel: Speedometer, Tachometer, Trip Computer Driver/Passenger Sunvisors: Standard Interior Rear View Mirror: Day and Night Room Lamp: Standard Dashboard Trim: With Silver Trim Steering Wheel Type: 2-Spoke Polyurethane Column: Fixed Gear Shift Knob: Polyurethane Parking Brake: Standard Power Windows: Standard Glove Box: Standard Seat Material: Vinyl Seating Capacity: Five (5) Air Conditioning: Front; Manual with Thermostat Rear Body Lamp: Dual INFOTAINMENT Number of Speakers: 2 SAFETY & SECURITY Seatbelt Front 3pt. ELR with x 2 Ready to shop for a 2020 Kia K2500? Carmudi has new and used K2500 vehicles available. Feel free to shop for a car at Carmudi today. Photos from Kia Also read: Old against new: 2019 vs. 2020 Kia Sorento Which 2020 Kia Forte color is best for you?
BusinessCarmudi2020 Nissan Leaf vs. the competition: Your other all-electric vehicle options
Nissan Philippines has long confirmed that it will bring its famed Leaf electric vehicle (EV) to our local shores, but because of the COVID-19 pandemic and other hush-hush reasons, that still hasn’t happened yet. Perhaps the Japanese car maker is still waiting for the EV infrastructure in the country to improve. With the latest Leaf able to travel 400 kms on a single charge, such a stable and reliable support system would indeed be necessary to truly maximize the new Leaf’s potential. As the first mass-produced EV and the first of its kind to reach 400,000 in sales, the Leaf has its strong name going for it. However, it’s far from the only all-electric car in the local auto market. When it finally arrives, these cars are set to be its biggest competitors. Hyundai Ioniq Electric (PHP 2.05 million) The Hybrid Ioniq is fitted with a Lithium-Ion Polymer battery with a 28kWh power capacity and an output of 98kW (131hp). Seating up to five passengers, the crossover hatch comes with six airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic parking brake, and a rear camera with dynamic guidelines. Inside the Ioniq’s cabin, some of its connectivity features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and TomTom Live, with infotainment controls housed in an 8-inch color touchscreen display. Hyundai PH also launched the Kona EV sometime ago, but has since dropped the vehicle from their lineup. Some dealerships may still have the vehicle on sale though. Audi e-Tron (price available upon request) The first fully electric model from the German marque, the Audi e-Tron SUV makes use of the brand’s MLB Evo platform, a setup that puts an electric motor on each axle, with the rear motor imbued with more power than the front. Powered by a 95kWh battery, this Audi EV does 355hp (402hp with Boost Mode), making it one of the more powerful all-electrics in the market today. Creature comforts in the Audi e-Tron include LED headlights, keyless entry, adaptive air suspension, and 360-degree camera, to name a few. BYD E6 (PHP4.2 million) It seems that being an all-electric vehicle is the only thing that the BYD E6 has going for it. The exterior is simplistic, the cabin design uninspiring, and the 300-km electric range unimpressive. Truth to tell, it’s hard to say the vehicle’s 4 million-plus price tag is justified. Of course, if it means not needing to pay for gasoline forever, some people will find it sensible to buy this Chinese-made car. Highlights include leather seats, spacious cabin, and a long-service battery life guaranteed to be rechargeable up to 4,000 times, fire safe and hardened against extreme conditions. Photos from Nissan, Audi, Hyundai, BYD Also read: 2020 Nissan Almera vs. the competition: Your other subcompact sedan options Old against new: 2020 vs. 2016 Nissan GT-R
BusinessCarmudiShell PH introduces Bitumen FreshAir
Oil giant Shell officially introduced Bitumen FreshAir in the country, an environment-friendly asphalt product developed to reduce air quality impact in the construction of bridges, highways, racetracks, roads, bridges, and runways. Pilipinas Shell claimed that 17 million kilograms of their latest product “can cover various local infrastructure projects all over Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, enhancing the air quality for motorists and passengers as they travel.” Department of Public Works and Highway’s (DPWH) Assistant Director, Bureau of Research and Standards Engr. Reynaldo Faustino gave his thumbs up on the said product, saying that it meets the department’s standard regulations. “The thrust of what we do at DPWH stays the same: we shall build more roads and long-span bridges that connect mainland to island provinces. The Bitumen FreshAir fits in our projects as it meets R.A. (Republic Act) 8749 Clean Air Act,” he said. While Bohol was the first to take advantage of the Bitumen FreshAir, Shell Bitumen Philippines’ Country Business Manager Allan Canedo noted that they will soon tap other regions and their local government units (LGUs). “We’re looking to lock in deals with ecotourism destinations just like Bohol where stringent policies in protecting the environment are in place. We are confident that we can cover infrastructure projects in the whole Visayas, Mindanao, and even Luzon with the 17-million kilograms of Bitumen FreshAir that our plants based in Batangas and Mindanao are currently sheltering,” Canedo said. Shell Bitumen Philippines Technical Manager Janet Marcellana explained that the use of Bitumen FreshAir “has a similar impact on the reduction of nitrogen equivalent to removing an average of 40 cars per kilometer of asphalt laid per year”. “It significantly reduced the levels of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide by an average of 40 percent during asphalt production and road paving when compared to using conventional bitumen,” Marcellana said. This new product—developed in its R&D Centre in Bangalore, India—was also designed to address the complaints when using regular bitumen. According to Shell Philippines, the product has been tested in France, United Kingdom, Thailand, and Netherlands and receives positive feedbacks on the change in air quality. Marcellana recapped that in 2019, construction projects in the United Kingdom and China where Bitumen FreshAir was used have already reaped the benefits of this product—and Philippines is the next country that can fully enjoy the advantages of a carefully crafted innovative solution. Further, Shell cited feedback from after Cebu 7H Technochem Industries Inc. Quality Assurance Manager Rhowell Tiu who was a first-time Bitumen FreshAir user. “After using this innovative product from Shell, we no longer received complaints and our working environment has drastically improved,” Tiu said. Faustino added that the DPWH encourages stakeholders in the construction industry to “consider the use of environment-friendly construction materials to create a more sustainable tomorrow.” This game-changing initiative brought about by Shell immensely underscores how it cares for the people it serves and for the future of the planet. “Shell is a responsible company that is always looking forward to making solutions that will benefit mankind and the environment. In the years to come, we can assure you that we will remain committed in providing solutions to the ever-changing needs of the world,” said Jeyan Vasudevan, Regional Technology Manager for Asia, Shell Specialties Business. Photos from Shell Philippines Also read: Shell is turning its stations into community hubs Pilipinas Shell shuts down refinery Shell opens new import facility in Subic
BusinessCarmudiIt's official: Nissan to stop producing Almera in PH
The local arm for the Japanese automaker Nissan will be stopping the local production of the Nissan Almera in the country, following the expiration of the deal with its assembly partner. In a statement, Nissan in the Philippines, with its vehicle assembly partner Univation Motor Philippines, Inc. (UMPI) will cease production operations in its facility in Santa Rosa, Laguna starting March this year. “The decision has been made following the expiration of the assembly contract between Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) and UMPI. The decision is aligned with Nissan’s plan towards optimized production and efficient business operations in the ASEAN region, as part of the Nissan NEXT transformation plan.” Nissan Philippines Assistant General Manager for Communications Dax Avenido told Carmudi Philippines that they are still studying as to where they would be sourcing the future supply of the Almera for the country. “We will continue to sell the Almera as we have sufficient supply to meet our customer’s demands,” Avenido said in an interview. For the pricing of the Almera, Avenido assured that it will “remain the same at this point.” Further, the statement from the Japanese automaker said that they “remain committed to its investments in the Philippines.” “The company will continue to contribute to the growth of the Philippine automotive industry through its innovative products and excellent services, as well as its dealer expansion nationwide. Nissan’s strategy in the Philippines is to keep the customer at the heart of our business, and focus on strengthening the fundamentals of Product, Service, Customer Experience, and People. Our customer-centric approach guides our product and service offerings, as well as network expansion.” On the other hand, UMPI will continue its other business operations in the country. “We were informed that UMPI will remain active in the Philippines and continue its other business operations in the country. The well-being of employees is the highest priority. Nissan is coordinating with UMPI to ensure a smooth transition,” it noted. Moreover, the leadership of the Department of Trade and Industry cited the need for provisional safeguard measures on the local automotive industry. “The announcement of Nissan to close their assembly operations in the country is regrettable, as these developments all the more demonstrate the critical situation of the local motor vehicle industry. Thus, the provisional safeguard measures need to be immediately put in place to protect the domestic industry from further serious injury,” the Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said. In their own statement, DTI mentioned that the sales for the Nissan Almera of around 4,500 “represent just 1 percent of the total vehicle market and its assembly activity employs 133 workers.” “The stoppage of assembly was expected as in its earlier discussions with the DTI, Nissan has intimated that they already contemplated on closing last year given weaker volume sales and low market share of the Almera. They have in effect extended their stay. Their major sales come from imported pick-ups and sport utility vehicles (SUVs),” the DTI claimed in its statement. “The stoppage of Almera’s assembly operations, following closely that of Honda and Isuzu, only highlights that the local auto assembly industry is critically impacted by the surge in imports and will thus benefit from the time-bound safeguard duty,” Lopez said. “Alongside the modernized incentives being made available under the CREATE Bill, the DTI is undertaking a comprehensive approach to revive the auto industry - employing coherent policy measures while still maintaining fair trade and the contestability of the market for imports. This, together with the major reforms we are doing—such as the Public Service Act, the Rice Tariffication Law and the Build, Build, Build program, and many more—will bring about a more attractive investment climate moving forward,” the trade chief added. Photos from Nissan in the Philippines, DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez Facebook page Also read: Latest Almera to Take More Than a Year to be Introduced in PH? 2020 Nissan Almera vs. the competition: Your other subcompact sedan options Nissan gives hefty discounts to welcome 'new normal'
LifestyleAutoblog5 great winter accessories for your vehicle
Here in the Midwestern United States, winter still has a few months longer to make us miserable before we can put it in our rearview. Too often, drivers will end up in snowy situations which could be easily avoided if they had the right accessories in their trunk. One of the most helpful items you could have in your trunk during the winter months has to be a good ice scraper.
BusinessAutoblogReservations for Cadillac CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing models to open in February
Cadillac will unveil its high-performance CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing sedans on Feb. 1 and will accept reservations for the cars the same day. As a special enticement, those first 250 cars will get a numbered plaque on the steering wheel, which indicates the model, transmission, and build sequence. Note that the plaque comes only on cars equipped with the high-performance steering wheel, which based on the teaser image below appears to have carbon fiber accents.
BusinessAutoblogThe next-gen Ford Mustang reportedly going all-electric, arriving in 2028
There's some scuttlebutt going around that the next-generation Ford Mustang might not appear until late 2028, and that the reason for the delay is because it will be going fully electric. This is the good old pony car coupe we've known and loved for over half a century. The report comes from Autoline (at the 4:31 mark), which sources an industry data firm called AutoForecast Solutions.
BusinessAutoblogBuick officially launches the redesigned 2021 Envision
The 2021 Buick Envision is officially official. Yes, that Envision — the one we showed you back in May 2020 — is now for sale, and we now have all of the finer details about the redesigned crossover, which is lower, wider and more technologically robust than its predecessor. One could argue that we already knew the most important thing about Buick's updated CUV: It looks good.
NewsAutoblogL.A.'s mysterious jetpack guy could actually be a human-shaped drone
It turns out the mysterious case of the jetpack guy casually flying around at a few thousand feet above the ground in California could actually be something completely different, albeit just as dangerous. According to documents collected by The Black Vault (via The Drive) through the Freedom of Information Act, an American Airlines pilot who made the jetpack sighting reported to the FBI that "what he saw was exactly like the drone in the YouTube video below." Not only is it possible, it seems significantly more likely that an unmanned drone would reach such heights than a real-life Iron Man carrying enough fuel to take off, joyride at 3,000-6,000 feet for a few minutes and then safely land.
LifestyleAutoblog2021 Ram TRX VIN #001 heads to Barrett-Jackson
The very first production example of the 2021 Ram TRX is headed to auction, the company confirmed Thursday. The truck, in Launch Edition Anvil Gray, will cross the block at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale on March 26 to benefit the United Way for Southeastern Michigan’s 2-1-1 helpline. Being one of the 702 Launch Edition models makes it special already, but this particular example will come with a presentation box with a bound book custom-developed by the Ram Brand team.
BusinessAutoblogSay goodbye to the Volkswagen Golf, as production for the U.S. officially ends
Instead, Volkswagen is limiting our Mk 8 consumption to the high performance GTI and Golf R. If you do want a base Golf, VW says it’s produced enough model year 2021 Golfs at the Puebla, Mexico plant to sustain sales through the end of the year. If you want to wait for the Mk 8 GTI and Golf R, Volkswagen confirmed yet again that those models are on track for a 2022 model year launch.
