Wednesday, October 25, 2017

From the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show : Video and Images of the Honda Sports EV concept

In the Tokyo Motor Show currently on-going, one of the cars on show at the Honda booth is their new "Sports EV" concept car. Below are the video and the images that Honda provided for this car. 

Honda Sports EV Concept:
Honda exhibited the world premiere of the Honda Sports EV Concept, a concept model which combines EV performance and AI (artificial intelligence) inside a compact body with the aim to realize the joy of driving the user can feel with a sense of unity with the car.


Honda Sports EV Concept video



Honda Sports EV Concept photo and images






Tuesday, October 24, 2017

HONDA MALAYSIA RECALLS 2,814 UNITS OF HR-V (2016YM) TO REPLACE FRONT STABILISER BAR

Honda Malaysia today announced a product recall for 2,814 units of HR-V 2016 Year Model due to the possibility that the front stabiliser bar may break under high stress. All other Honda current selling models are not affected by this recall.

According to Honda Malaysia, the stabiliser bar breakage is due to insufficient temperature control during its production process, resulting in compromised strength of the stabiliser bar and thus, leading to possible breakage during high stress. Breakage of the stabiliser bar might cause wheels to be unbalanced, resulting in instability during a drive and the car pulling to the left or right.

As of today, there are no incidences of crashes or injuries related to this issue reported in Malaysia. Honda Malaysia is taking this preemptive measure to ensure customer safety and sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to all affected customers.

All affected front stabiliser bars will be replaced with newly made parts. Currently, Honda Malaysia has 50% of the replacement parts in stock nationwide, and parts availability will be at 100% in mid-November 2017.

Honda Malaysia would like to assure all customers that the company is committed to its mission to maintain the best product performance; hence the proactive measure is being taken to avoid any possible damages or accidents.

All affected customers will be informed via notification letters, which will include details of the product recall. Customers who receive the letter are advised to send their vehicles to the nearest Honda authorised dealer nationwide for inspection and replacement. All cost related to this replacement activity will be borne by Honda Malaysia.

Honda Malaysia strongly encourages all affected customers to replace the affected stabiliser bar urgently once they receive the letter as its breakage can potentially lead to tyre puncture and instability.

Honda customers are urged to check their vehicle recall status either by logging on to www.honda.com.my or www.productrecall.honda.com.my today or by calling the Honda Toll Free number 1-800-88-2020.

Saturday, October 21, 2017

HONDA MALAYSIA TO WELCOME NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MR. TOICHI ISHIYAMA


Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. today announced that Mr. Toichi Ishiyama will be succeeding Mr. Katsuto Hayashi as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Ishiyama will officially assume office in Malaysia on 1 November 2017. He is currently the President and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Atlas Cars (Pakistan) Limited. The career of Mr. Ishiyama, 48, spans 25 years in Honda in various roles in Japan, USA, Thailand, China and Pakistan. During his assignments in Thailand and China, Mr. Ishiyama delved deep into understanding local markets in relation to automobile. With more than 20 years of experience in researching markets and product planning, Mr. Ishiyama’s forte is an advantage towards ensuring that Honda Malaysia continues its strong momentum as the No.1 Non-National Vehicle Brand and No.2 in overall Total Industry Volume (TIV).

Mr. Ishiyama has indicated that he will continue to focus on total excellence in products and customer experience to emphasise the Joy of Buying for Malaysians. He believes the strategy put in place by Mr. Hayashi will see Honda Malaysia through to another achievement year, reaching the target of 100,000 units in sales for this year.

During his tenure in Malaysia, Mr. Hayashi successfully strengthened Honda Malaysia’s position as the No.1 in Non-National segment and No.2 in overall TIV and in the process, also attained No.1 position in terms of market share among Honda automobile operations worldwide in some of those months. The company achieved the highest local market share in history in March 2017, at 20.5%. Honda Malaysia recorded 100,000 sales units in the fiscal year of April 2016 to March 2017 as well celebrated its historical 600,000th production unit under Mr. Hayashi’s watch.

Preparing Honda Malaysia for the next growth phase, Mr. Hayashi strategically switched focus to offer more Advanced Technology to customers. Under the theme of Next Generation Advanced Technology, turbocharged engine was introduced last year. Mr. Hayashi was praised greatly for the success of the Civic with turbocharged engine variant as an option for Malaysians. Civic was the pioneer mass production Japanese model in Malaysia to be fitted with turbocharged engine to suit local demand.

This focus was further expanded with the launch of Sport Hybrid i-DCD variants, making Malaysia the only country outside of Japan to introduce the highly accepted environmental friendly powertrain that does not compromise the fun-to-drive element of the car. To date, Honda Malaysia is the leader of hybrid segment in Malaysia. Honda Malaysia also introduced the All-New CR-V with Honda SENSING to offer a new level of advanced safety. Meanwhile, the soon-to-be launched All-New Civic Type R 2.0L VTEC Turbocharged, which has been recorded as the fastest front-wheel drive production car, is set to exhilarate customers who demand the thrill and fun of the throttle in their drive. In total, Mr. Hayashi steered Honda Malaysia’s launch of five new models and expansion by four new dealers to a total of 90 Honda dealers nationwide.

Mr. Hayashi who led Honda Malaysia for one and a half years, will be taking on a new role as the General Manager, Overseas Operation Division (Americas), Regional Operation (North America) in Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in Japan.


Sunday, October 1, 2017

HONDA’S WORLD’S FASTEST FRONT-WHEEL-DRIVE (FWD) PRODUCTION CAR TO ARRIVE ON MALAYSIAN SHORES


Sepang, 29 September 2017 – Honda Malaysia today announced that the All-New Civic Type R will be the most powerful Honda model ever to be introduced in the Honda Malaysia model line-up. Record-breaking All-New Civic Type R has claimed the title of world’s fastest front-wheel-drive (FWD) production car with a new benchmark lap time record of 7 minutes 43.80 seconds at the Nurburgring Circuit in Germany early April this year.

The Type R is Honda’s iconic racing and sports model whose name and reputation is almost cult-like. Making history for the past 25 years since its first introduction in 1992, the characteristic and development concept of the Type R has always been light-weight, dynamic performance and mechanically simple. The 2017 All-New Civic Type R adopts the same concept optimizing advance technology to current era, enabling the All-New Civic Type R to set a new record for a front-wheel-drive (FWD) production car.

The most significant improvement of this All-New Civic Type R is enhanced aerodynamics that gives greater performance and excellent stability, allowing this Type R model to achieve much quicker lap time compared to previous-generation (European market) Type R. It delivers the best package in its class, providing powerful performance both on the road and on race track, yet highly adaptable to our daily driving demands.

The hot hatch Honda has a body that defines racing perfection. With a low and wide stance, the air curtain at the front bumper, side sill flick up and wing cross section of the rear wing gives excellent high speed dynamic performance. It was developed with the most ambitious design of Civic Hatchback platform with high rigidity body frame and an increase of 38% in torsional stiffness compared to previous generation (European market) Type R. The All-New Civic Type R is an ultimate representation of the racing spirit of Honda that is embodied in Honda’s DNA.

The All-New Civic Type R is equipped with 2.0-liter VTEC Turbocharged engine that offers high output and higher performance. Providing 310PS and maximum torque of 400NM, the All-New Civic Type R provides powerful performance and unmatchable driving experience. The high performance engine is mated with 6-Speed Manual Transmission that delivers exhilarating fun and engaging driver experience. Honda Research & Development (R&D) has developed the manual transmission, enabling precise shift for the drivers.

The All-New Civic Type R comes with 3-Way Driving Modes (COMFORT, SPORT and +R) which allow drivers to set their preferred driving mode to experience different dynamic performance in different driving environment, be it on the road or on track. The 3-Way Driving Modes control the Adaptive Damper System (ADS), Drive-by-Wire throttle (DBW), Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), traction and brake system. Each driving mode provides a balance of the ride and handling for different experiences when the driver switches mode. Furthermore, all 3-Modes are adaptive and suitable for daily driving, yet ever ready to go on the track.

Honda R&D also developed a 3-Way Exhaust System to provide sports feel with an acceleration sound to fulfill the driver's aspiration. At low to medium speed, it produces a powerful exhaust sound, while at high rotation range it reduces unpleasant muffled sounds and creates a refined experience for the drivers.

With the improvement of cornering performance in mind, the All-New Civic Type R’s 20 inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels was designed for aggressive and high speed performance. Despite the powerful performance of the All-New Civic Type R, it comes with highly responsive and durable braking system. It is well-fitted with high performance BREMBO brakes to achieve superior braking performance. A cooling duct at the front bumper opening introduces fresh air, enabling efficient air cooling and greatly improving braking performance at high speed.

The All-New Civic Type R model for Malaysian market is manufactured at Honda’s Swindon, United Kingdom plant with the engine being produced in Anna, Ohio (Honda of America Manufacturing Inc).

In celebrating the excitement of being the ‘Champion of Champions’, the All-New Civic Type R together with Jazz Hybrid Mugen, Civic 1.5L Turbocharged and All-New CR-V will be previewed at Honda Innovation. Evolution. Booth, at the 2017 Formula One Petronas Grand Prix in Sepang International Circuit Mall Area from 29th September 2017 to 1st October 2017  (Formula 1 Malaysia Race Weekend).

Malaysians can place a booking for the All-New Civic Type R from 1st October 2017 onwards at 21 selected Honda Sport Dealers (please refer to the table below for full listing). Sport Dealers are Honda’s appointed authorized dealers that carry the All-New Civic Type R in Malaysia. For more information on the All-New Civic Type R, please call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log on to www.honda.com.my

List of Honda Sport Dealers         
*Customers can place their booking for All-New Civic Type R at the listed dealership below.


No
Region
Honda Sport Dealers
1
Central
Autoworld Asia Sdn Bhd
2
Central
Botanic Auto Mall Sdn Bhd
3
Central
Global Amity Sdn Bhd (Bangi)
4
Central
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd - Selayang
5
Central
Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd
6
Central
USJ Car Express Sdn Bhd
7
Central
MH Prestige Auto Sdn Bhd
8
Central
Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd
9
Central
Tenaga Setia Resources Sdn Bhd
10
Central
The Millenium Auto Carriage
11
East Coast
Chuan Thye Motor Sdn Bhd
12
East Coast
Syarikat Tan Eng Ann Sd Bhd
13
East Malaysia
Syarikat Labuan Automobile Sdn Bhd
14
Northern
Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd
15
Northern
Formula Venture Sdn Bhd
16
Northern
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd - Sg Pinang
17
Northern
Lee Motor SP (Car Div) Sdn Bhd
18
Northern
Yooi Cars Sdn Bhd
19
Southern
Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Seremban)
20
Southern
Syarikat Motor GS Tay Sdn Bhd
21
Southern
Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd



Saturday, February 25, 2017

Statement by Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. : Additional Replacement Activities for Takata Front Airbag Inflators

Below is Honda Malaysia's latest update with regards to their on-going campaign for the Takata airbag recall. Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. continues alerting and informing customers of the importance of replacing the affected vehicle’s Takata airbag inflators, via increased frequency of postings on social media and SMS blast. Owners of Honda vehicles affected by the Takata airbag inflator product recall are advised to immediately get their vehicles checked and parts replaced at any Honda Authorized Service Centres, Shopping Mall Hubs or at PETRONAS Stations as soon as possible.

START OF OFFICIAL HONDA MALAYSIA PRESS STATEMENT

Honda Malaysia announced today that it will increase the locations to replace Takata front airbag inflators to provide further convenience to affected customers in its commitment to ensure the safety of customers.

Thursday, February 2, 2017

NEW HONDA CITY MMC IS NOW OPEN FOR BOOKING



1 February 2017 – Honda Malaysia’s best-selling model, the City is once again set to capture the hearts of Malaysians with bookings for the New City now being accepted at all 88 Honda authorised dealers nationwide from 1 February onwards. The enhanced New City is based on the success of the 4th generation model, which has proven itself to be a B-segment leader with more than 100,000 units sold since its launch in March 2014.

With class leading features, outstanding comfort and spaciousness as well as fuel efficiency and modern design, it is little wonder that the City is a hot favourite with Malaysians. The New City will bolster these traits further with more value added features which will appeal to young singles and families.

Powered by Honda’s signature 1.5L i-VTEC engine mated with Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) for all variants, the New City provides the ideal balance of driving performance and fuel efficiency.

The New City comes with new dual tone alloy wheels, further elevating the City’s sleek and stylish design. The V variant includes LED Headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and Front LED Fog Lights to give the New City a fresh exterior appearance. At the rear, the V variant is equipped with a Duck Tail Spoiler integrated with LED Brake Light, LED Taillights and a Multi-Angle Reverse Camera that not only improves the looks but also further enhances the practicality of the New City.

Trunk space remains the biggest in its class at 536Litres, making the New City the perfect sedan that is extremely convenient for road trips for everyone with its ample room for suitcases, baby prams or even golf bags.

In addition, all variants of the New City will be equipped with the Push Start Button and Smart Entry to provide extra convenience to customers. The New City will continue to set the benchmark in the B-segment safety with features such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) systems, which come as standard in all variants. VSA stabilizes the New City by reducing under/over steering when driving in unexpected situations or during tight cornering, HSA helps to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when the brakes are released on an incline, while ESS makes the rear brake lights and hazard lights flash automatically to warn nearby cars when the vehicle detects sudden braking. The premium V variant will also come with Six Airbags.

With its outstanding record and such value added features, the New City is positioning itself as a Trend Setter, being the sedan car that fulfills the needs of everyone - from design to performance and practicality.

Customers can be the first to own the New City when it is launched in the first quarter of this year by placing an advanced booking now at any authorised Honda dealers nationwide. For more information, please call Honda Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020, or log on to www.honda.com.my

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Honda Malaysia Update : Extension and Addition of Replacement Activities for Takata Front Airbag Inflators

Honda Malaysia today announces that operations at the three Honda Service Central Hubs for Takata front airbag inflator replacement activities will cease on 31 December 2016. At the same time, the company also reaffirms its unrelenting commitment to ensure the safety of customers and make it more convenient for affected customers by providing even more locations for Takata front airbag inflator replacement from the month of January 2017 to March 2017.

1. Closure of Honda Service Central Hubs
Operations at all three Honda Service Central Hubs for the Northern, Central and Southern regions will be available until 31 December 2016 only. These hubs will no longer be operational thereafter. Customers may visit any Authorized Honda dealers to replace the affected Takata front airbag inflators.

2. Introduction of Mobile Caravan for Takata Front Airbag Replacement 
In addition, Honda Malaysia will introduce a mobile caravan to provide further convenience for affected customers to replace the affected Takata front airbag inflators. The mobile caravan will be going nationwide to provide on-the-spot replacements for affected customers and will be available 7 days a week.

3. Extension of Mobile Hubs in Shopping Malls and Mobile Teams
To continue extending the number of locations and provide more convenience for  affected customers to replace the affected Takata front airbag inflator, Honda Malaysia is increasing the operations of Mobile Hubs to three (3) mall venues every weekend in the Central region, Johor Bahru, Kedah and Penang until March 2017.

Details of the latest locations of the added Mobile Hubs at shopping malls will be available at www.honda.com.my and www.productrecall.honda.com.my.

Apart from that, the Honda Malaysia mobile teams will be visiting used car dealers and corporate companies for on-the-spot Takata front airbag inflator replacements at the Central region.

4. Continuation of Honda Service Dealer Associates going door-to-door
At the same time, 84 Authorised Honda Service dealer nationwide will continue mobilizing their associates to go door to door to approach affected customers at their premises until March 2017. This exercise is to continue increasing the awareness and emphasis on the importance of replacing the affected Takata front airbag inflator to help expedite the free-of-charge replacement activity.

The introduction of the mobile caravan and increase of Mobile Hubs in more locations in shopping malls are in addition to the replacement activities that are available at Honda’s on-ground activities including at every Honda Family Road Trip and Honda Mobile Road Shows. These measures are part of Honda Malaysia’s effort to expedite the replacement of affected Takata front airbag inflators.
*Locations will be updated accordingly for each activity

Honda Malaysia continues to emphasise the urgency of replacing the affected Takata front airbag inflators as the affected (driver/passenger) front airbag inflators manufactured by Takata may deploy with excessive internal pressure when activated. The airbag inflator casing might rupture, which may result in injury or fatality of the driver and passenger.

Honda Malaysia strongly encourages affected customers to make an appointment at any Authorised Honda dealers to avoid any setback for these replacements to be done systematically. Replacement activities at the Mobile Hubs and Honda Family Road Trip do not require advance appointment.

As of 28 December 2016, Honda Malaysia has completed 71% replacement of Takata driver front airbag inflators and would like to reassure that the stock availability for Takata driver front airbag inflators is at 100%. The stock availability for Takata passenger front airbag inflators is close to 70% by end of December 2016. Honda Malaysia hopes to further improve the completion ratio for both the Takata driver and passenger front airbag inflators by providing more replacing convenience to affected customers.

Honda Malaysia will also continue to work closely with the Road Transport Department / Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) to approach current owners of affected Honda vehicles based on JPJ data.

For further enquiry on the Takata front airbag inflator replacement or to make an appointment for the replacement, affected customers may contact Honda Toll Free number 1-800-88-2020. Customers can also check vehicles recall status by logging on to www.honda.com.my or www.productrecall.honda.com.my.

Note :
Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. continues alerting and informing customers of the importance of replacing the affected vehicle’s airbag inflators, via increased frequency of postings on social media and SMS blast. Owners of Honda vehicles affected by the airbag inflator product recall are advised to immediately get their vehicles checked and parts replaced at any Authorized Honda Service dealers, Service Central Hubs or Mobile Hubs as soon as possible.