Benjamin Yong, Author at The OpenRoad Blog

BMW eDrive Explained

Benjamin Yong on July 24, 2018

The BMW eDrive system architecture.

You’ve seen the logo on the various electrified vehicles offered in BMW’s current lineup: eDrive. What exactly does it mean, and how does it work? We’re going to find out in today’s blog post.

Three components

eDrive is the new drive technology found in all BMW i models and plug-in hybrids, and is essentially comprised of an electric motor, high-voltage lithium-ion battery and an intelligent energy management system.

The electric motor is what allows for complete zero-emissions driving — for example, the X5 xDrive40e is capable of travelling up to 30 kilometres without using any fuel — or in certain situations, provide a boost to acceleration.

All eDrive-equipped vehicles rely on a special performance li-ion battery to store energy, and utilize a built-in cooling device to constantly keep the unit at the ideal operating temperature, helping increase output and maintain service life.

Intelligent energy management guarantees that everything is running as efficiently and optimally as possible. It partially does so via a predictive strategy, such as using navigation data to determine at which point during the route to switch over to pure electric propulsion, or when to start the charging process. Another facet is regenerative braking, transferring the kinetic energy created from braking into the battery.

Different modes

Although the hybrids possess TwinPower Turbo internal combustion engines (ICE), they feature a MAX eDRIVE button that forces the vehicle to use electricity at speeds of 120 km/h and under, although the ICE will kick in under heavy load or if the throttle is wide open. The SAVE BATTERY function, on the other hand, ensures the battery’s charge state is maintained so fuel-free motoring may be enjoyed at a later time — useful on the highway. Pop the transmission lever into S, and the ICE immediately kicks in and stays on for those times when instant power is required.

eDrive is currently offered on several BMW cars and SUVs, including the 330e, 530e and the above mentioned X5 xDrive40e.

Want to learn more? Speak to a BMW Sales Executive today at BMW Langley or The BMW Store!

AJAC EcoRun 2018 showcases latest green vehicles

Benjamin Yong on July 17, 2018

AJAC EcoRun sign _{This year’s EcoRun featured 19 green vehicles and several hundred kilometres of driving through New Brunswick. Photos by Benjamin Yong.}

The wave of pure electric, hybrid and other fuel efficient vehicles continues to get bigger, as evidenced by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada seventh annual EcoRun event held in June.

Taking place for the first time in Atlantic Canada, the intention of EcoRun is to showcase the newest green wheels on sale in dealerships, as well as comparing real-world fuel consumption to statistics published by manufacturers and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan).

AJAC EcoRun 2018 opening ceremony

“It’s a true joy to be in Moncton today, as this event wouldn’t have been possible a few years ago. New Brunswick has obviously embraced eco-friendly vehicles with a lot of charging infrastructure throughout — it’s been the fastest growing electric vehicle market in the country, and one that’s fully connected,” says co-chair David Miller, referencing the availability of not only Level 2 but also Level 3 fast chargers capable of bringing battery energy level from zero to 80 per cent in 30 minutes.

“But this event isn’t just about pure electrics and plug in hybrids. Automakers are doing an admirable job in lowering fuel economy throughout their product lineups, and that’s despite a lot more SUVs and trucks.”

Indeed, the segments represented ran the gamut and included a total of 19 entries comprised of subcompacts, full-size sedans, crossovers and even a minivan. Journalists were assigned six models each, one for every leg of the 570-kilometre journey taking participants from the starting point in Moncton, through several cities, and eventually to Fredericton. Below are three standout examples I had a chance to drive over two days.

2018 Lexus LS 500h

Lexus’ flagship entered its fifth generation this year, more luxurious than any iteration previous. The hybrid version is especially cutting edge, using a powertrain derived from the LC 500h coupe combining a 3.5-litre V6 gasoline mill and two electric motors to produce a net 354 horsepower.

NRCan rates the LS 500h at 9.1 L/100 km in mixed city and highway conditions, and drivers cumulatively managed 8.0 L/100 km.

2018 Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid

2018 Hyundai Ioniq Electric Plus

The plug-in was the third and final piece to arrive in Hyundai’s trio of Ioniq cars that also feature standard hybrid and pure electric offerings. The 1.6-litre internal combustion engine and electric motor are mated to a sporty six-speed double-clutch transmission with optional paddle shifters, giving a bit of an extra kick to the combined 104 horsepower and 109 lb-ft of torque output. In zero emissions mode, this Ioniq can travel nearly 50 kilometres on a full charge.

NRCan rates the plug-in at 3.35 Le/100 km in mixed city and highway conditions, and drivers cumulatively managed 3.0 Le/100 km.

2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Transformed from sensibly styled to sexy new four-door for 2018, the Camry is lower and wider than before and highlighted by a fresh lower grille dominating most of the front fascia. The next-gen Toyota Hybrid System and 2.5-litre four-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine work together to generate 208 total horsepower, and a continuously variable transmission boasts a sport setting that can use battery reserves to boost performance.

NRCan rates the Camry Hybrid at 5.1 L/100 km in mixed city and highway conditions, and drivers cumulatively managed 4.8 L/100 km.

Overall, among all the vehicles journalists managed to achieve an average of 1.59 L/100 km better than NRCan’s official numbers.

Why buy OpenRoad manufacturer certified vehicles

Benjamin Yong on June 28, 2018

openroad certified

Some of the benefits of purchasing a manufacturer certified pre-owned vehicle at OpenRoad. Photos by Benjamin Yong.

Did you know not all used cars are created equal? Particularly those that are part of manufacturer certified pre-owned (CPO) programs, available at many OpenRoad Auto Group dealerships.

audi boundary certified plus

German luxury brand Audi, for example, calls its version Certified :plus. Before any model on the lot qualifies for the label, it is comprehensively examined, and has imperfections addressed, so the product in question — which cannot be older than six years — is brought back to as close to new condition as possible.

Certified :plus basically means a vehicle has reached certain criteria so that the automaker is willing to back it up with a warranty, like receiving a 300 point inspection (114 exterior checks, 98 interior, 38 engine, 39 undercarriage and 17 road-test),” said OpenRoad Audi Boundary general manager Brad Beckett.

audi boundary sq5

“In addition, certain reconditioning standards have to be met meaning stuff like brakes and tires tires need to have more than 50 cent life remaining, and there can’t be any scratch ding or dent on the body that’s longer than I think it is four centimetres or an inch-and-a-half. So they really put a premium on making sure that the car has been brought up to as close to showroom condition as possible.”

The CPO limited warranty Beckett alluded to kicks in after the original four-year/80,000 kilometre coverage expires, good for an additional two years or 160,000 kilometres, not exceeding past six years from the vehicle’s original in-service date. The warranty will be honoured at any dealer across Canada, and emergency repairs can be performed at a non-Audi service facility.

audi certified plus benefits

Other perks include special financing exclusive to the program, with either monthly or bi-weekly payment schedules available similar to leasing, a CarProof history report, seven-day or 500-kilometre exchange privilege, and 24/7 roadside assistance.

“Audi will provide us with financing rates on all different CPOs at all different terms, anywhere from 24 months up to 72 months usually. As the term increases so does the rate, but I think our highest right now on any car is something like 3.9 per cent, our lowest rate being 0.9 so it’s a really advantageous way of purchasing a vehicle,” says Beckett.

audi boundary certified pre-owned lot

You can search through OpenRoad’s extensive CPO inventory online.

All-new 2019 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid to arrive early next year

Benjamin Yong on June 19, 2018

2019 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid front three quarter

The SUV enters its third generation for 2019, which includes another S E-Hybrid model with a higher output gasoline engine and electric motor.

Porsche recently announced early next year, a new partially electrified version of its best-selling SUV will be rolling off the assembly line: the 2019 Cayenne S E-hybrid. And the best part? It’s a whole lot more powerful.

The powertrain is composed of a 3.0-litre V6 gasoline engine and a significantly upgraded electric motor together generating a net 462 horsepower — an additional 43 horses compared to before — and 516 lb-ft of torque. That’s good for a 0 to 100 km/h time in a scant 5 seconds, not bad considering the mid-size crossover weighs 2,295 kilograms. As with the rest of the model range, a Tiptronic S eight-speed transmission has been adopted.

2019 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybridrear

Borrowing technology from the 918 Spyder hypercar, the S E-Hybrid can use virtually all of the now larger 14.1 kilowatt-hour onboard battery’s stored energy to provide extra acceleration boost in Sport and Sport Plus modes. Comprised of eight cell modules mounted beneath the floor of the rear cargo area, the battery is fluid-cooled to optimize performance.

Using the standard 3.6-kilowatt charger and a 230-volt, 10-amp connection, a full charge takes approximately eight hours. A 7.2-kilowatt unit is available for use with a 230-volt, 32-amp power source reducing the top-up time to 2.3 hours. Similar to other products in the segment, the process is remotely manageable through the Porsche Connect smartphone app allowing the use to pre-set climate control, turn the car on or off and find nearby charging stations.

2019 Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid interior

Drivers looking to tow recreational equipment or a trailer, this Cayenne has an add-on trailer connection and is rated for loads up to 3.5 tonnes. Like the 911 range, an “active hang-on” all-wheel drive system is employed whereby power is permanently distributed to the rear wheels while the front is variable depending on load and road conditions.

Also optional are Porsche Active Suspension Management, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control roll stabilization, and a couple of firsts for the brand, a head-up display projected to the front windscreen showing pertinent driving information and lightweight 22-inch alloy wheels.

Lexus to usher in new era of ES this fall

Benjamin Yong on June 13, 2018

Pair of 2019 Lexus ES

The 2019 Lexus ES is bigger, lower and improved in almost every way compared to the outgoing model.

The Lexus ES, short for Executive Sedan, has long been admired for its comfort, elegant looks and luxury. Performance and cutting edge style, however, aren’t usually in the conversation when talking about the vehicle. Lexus aims to change this when the sixth iteration of the model is ushered in during the fall, complete with the addition of, for the first time, an F SPORT variant in the lineup.

2019 lexus es side view

Built on an all-new global GA-K platform, the mid-size four door sizes up growing 65 millimetres longer and 45 millimetres wider, while dropping five millimetres in height and gaining a wider track front and rear. The hood is lower and the roofline significantly raked, altogether resulting is a silhouette that is much more vibrant and youthful than the one it replaces.

2019 lexus es grille

The front end is characterized by thin, sharply designed headlamps and a choice of two different spindle grilles depending on the trim level. The 350 and 300h hybrid models receive a vertical-slatted unit, the F SPORTs a blacked out mesh grille made up of a repeating pattern of “L” shapes instead. The latter also adds a rear spoiler, lower diffuser, 19-inch wheels and an exclusive Ultra Sonic Blue Mica paint colour.

2019 lexus es f sport interior

The cabin of the 2019 ES is purposefully driver focused, the central display, instrument panel and head-up display all placed in a way to promote easy viewing without having to shift attention away from the road. F SPORT interiors feature special “Hadori” metallic trim, influenced by traditional Japanese sword making. The alloy has a wavy, 3-D appearance to it highlighting the premium level of detail applied to the car.

Compared to the outgoing chassis, the GA-K is stiffer and lighter yielding a better feel of the road and a quieter ride as well. An Adaptive Variable Suspension, like the one on the LC coupe, is offered as optional equipment.

2019 lexus es driver

“We knew that this ES had to feel responsive and easy to drive, no matter what kind of road it was on and that can only be achieved with a solid foundation,” said chief engineer Yashuhiro Sakakibara.

2019 lexus es 300h badge

Two powerplants are available. The ES 350 utilizes a 3.5-litre V6 producing 302 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, and the ES 300h takes advantage of a fourth-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive system delivering 215 net horsepower and a combined city/highway fuel economy rating of approximately 5.3 L/100 km.

Be on the lookout for the 2019 Lexus ES in dealerships come September.

2019 Lexus ES rear

Happy 70th birthday, Land Rover

Benjamin Yong on May 28, 2018

Happy birthday, Land Rover! The iconic British automaker turned 70 years young last month, initially debuting back in 1948 at the Amsterdam Motor Show with one self-titled product, meant as a stopgap solution for a country still healing from war. Fast forward to present day and countless global sales later, lets take a moment to celebrate one of the most recognizable and loved 4×4 marques.

“Land Rover was born with the launch of a single vehicle. Today our family of SUVs is testament to the pioneering spirit of innovation that has characterised Land Rover for seven decades. Our family of Defender, Discovery and Range Rover models provides unrivalled capability, versatility and luxury, giving us the perfect foundation for another 70 years of success,” said Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth.

land rover series 1

Here’s a brief timeline of the earlier days. The utilitarian Series I came first, followed by a long wheelbase version in 1953. In 1970, the two-door Range Rover Classic was unveiled, the first automobile featuring permanent four-wheel drive. The one millionth Land Rover rolled onto the factory floor in 1976. Land Rover’s third unique offering, the Discovery, was released in 1989, and a fourth, the Freelander, in 1997.

This brings us to the 2000s. The beginning of the new millennium saw the refinement of existing models, with the Range Rover and Discovery both entering third generations. In recent times the company has experimented with integrating lightweight materials and cutting edge technology into production, as well as establishing the Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division focused on increasing performance and the level of bespoke luxury.

range rover velar

Since 2010, in keeping with the pulse of the industry, Land Rover has turned its attention to more compact form factors, creating the compact Evoque, then the Discovery Sport and just last year, the smooth-looking Velar wearing the brand’s latest “reductionism” design language.

“Land Rover is so much more than just the most capable all-terrain vehicles. It connects people through a passion for adventure and making more of our world. From our employees to customers and enthusiasts, this is the family that makes Land Rover special,” says Speth.

View the entire lineup of new 2018 SUVs here.

How to properly take your summer vehicle out of storage

Benjamin Yong on May 23, 2018

There’s nothing better after a long cold and damp season than the smell of cherry blossoms, the sound of birds chirping and the sight of shiny sports, classic and luxury cars emerging from garage hibernation. Before you fire up the engine that has been idle for the last few months, here is a checklist of how to properly take your summer wheels out of storage.

Battery check

When tucking a vehicle away for the winter, using a battery tender is ideal. This helps the state of charge stay at maximum as a continuous drain hurts overall battery life. If you haven’t, get access to one and charge to full before turning the key. Examine the cables and terminals as well for corrosion and oxidization — dip a small brush in water and baking soda to fix up any dirty parts to ensure a proper connection. For batteries that were unplugged or became completely discharged, the onboard infotainment system may need to be reset afterwards via a code found in paperwork included with the car or obtained from your dealer.

Oil change

Regardless of whether the engine oil was changed prior to storage, a fresh replacement is recommended as condensation and contaminants may have formed while sitting. A new bottle of oil and filter is a small price to pay for the long-term health of the mill. At the same time, inspect the other fluids to see if anything else requires a top-up. When pumping gas for the first time, use a high-grade octane to smooth out the rough starts often accompanying the initial handful of cranks.

Pump up tires

Tire pressure will have slowly dropped over half a year, so an infusion of air is necessary to bring the psi back up to normal levels. Open the driver’s side door and see what the sticker in the doorjamb indicates is the appropriate pressure and fill accordingly, using a gauge to measure as you go along. Also perform a quick visual check for any irregularities like cracks, nails or bulges, and see if there’s enough tread to last through the summer and early fall.

Listen for noises

It’s normal for a little brake squeal to happen on the maiden drive, as surface rust on the rotor or drum is cleaned off during operation. If braking continues to cause unusual sounds, or you feel that something doesn’t feel right, schedule a service appointment right away.

Happy motoring!

Beijing Auto Show 2018 gets electrified

Benjamin Yong on May 14, 2018

With over 200 million cars on the road in China, it is represents the largest auto market in the world. Unsurprisingly as a result, greenhouse gas emissions are a major issue. At the 2018 Beijing Auto Show, vehicle manufacturers tried to offer up solutions in the form of fresh hybrid and electric options. We take a look at three of them in today’s blog post.

BMW Concept iX3 front

BMW Concept iX3

Recently, BMW has really ramped up its plug-in portfolio, offering models like the 330e, 530e, X5 Xdrive40e and, of course, the i3 and i8. In China, the company announced its first zero-emissions SUV: the Concept iX3, which introduces the fifth generation of eDrive technology. The 270-horsepower electric motor, transmission and electronics are all bundled in a separate compartment to optimize weight, performance and space.

BMW Concept iX3

The crossover wears a reinterpreted and sealed kidney grille, and unlike other concepts, looks remarkably road ready. A high-voltage battery yields an estimated driving range of more than 400 kilometres.

Honda Everus

Honda Everus EV Concept

Looking a little like an HR-V from another world, this concept teases the first mass-production EV by Honda for Chinese consumption. No specs have been released, but the car is expected to land in dealerships before the end of the year. The automaker has also revealed car-sharing plans for the Everus through a partnership with China-based business Reachstar.

Toyota Corolla PHEV

A plug-in version of the Corolla is bound for the PRC in the near future, part of Toyota’s bid to have 10 new electrified on sale there before 2021 — the Prius, Corolla Hybrid and six other hybrid Lexus vehicles are currently already available. The PHEV sedan can travel approximately 50 kilometres off the battery alone, and is rumoured to utilize a 1.8-litre gasoline engine for additional assistance.

The Truth About Worn Tires

Benjamin Yong on May 9, 2018

Brand comparisons between tires are probably nearly as old as the tire business itself. However, as Michelin pointed out during a program last month, how often do you see a head-to-head between two sets of well-used rubber?

The answer is probably not very. Which is why last month the French manufacturer held a hands-on demonstration, titled The Truth About Worn Tires, at the Laurens Proving Grounds facility near its North American headquarters in South Carolina.

laurens proving grounds

Bucking the trend

“This is not a normal event that Michelin puts on. Normally, we invite you out for a new product launch or a corporate announcement, but that’s not what this is about. We are just a voice in the industry here talking about something we’re very passionate about. And that’s safety,” said brand director Andy Koury.

“Typically when the industry is testing tires it’s standard to test what? New tires. Rarely do we test anything that’s worn, so it’s something we’re going to highlight at this event. It’s truly important as most consumers, after they buy the tire and leave the shop, they’re already driving on worn tires.”

the truth about worn tires track

The demo consisted of two activities. The first: doing three laps around a deliberately wet section of the test track in crossovers all spec’d the same, but on four sets of tires — “Tire A” and Tire B (all branding was removed prior) in both new and worn condition, the latter simulated by artificially shaving the tread to 3/32nds.

Although we weren’t privy to the specific models yet, it was pretty clear from the get go A was the more capable of the two, being able to better hold a consistent line around the turns at speed than B. In both cases, unsurprisingly, the new versions performed best.

the truth about worn tires wet braking

Wet braking

The next exercise proved to be most illuminating. This time we got behind the wheel of Toyota Camrys equipped with a similar setup and GPS tracking, except instead of lapping, we were to accelerate to 72 km/h an hour in a straight line, activate cruise control and then once entering a designated stop box — sprinkled in water of course as that is truly the best way to identify any hidden issues — slam on the brakes as hard as possible in order to measure stopping distance. Tire A worn took 8.5 metres further to come to a complete halt than when new, Tire B, 18.1 metres.

As Michelin explained, some tires are designed to wear better, keeping a proper contact patch (the section of rubber actually contacting the road surface) as well as the grooves and biting edges that help maintain traction in slick conditions. This helps drivers to squeeze out more usable life from a set. As it turns out, Tire A was a Michelin passenger tire, and B a Goodyear equivalent.

lexus port moody

Replacement

When it does come time to replace your tires, did you know dealerships offer competitive pricing and a broad selection? We asked Cameron Ma, service director at OpenRoad Lexus Port Moody, why customers should consider going this route.

What do you say to those who avoid going to the dealer for parts, such as tires, for fear of inflated pricing?

CM: This is a common misconception — in recent years, manufacturers have begun implementing “price matching” programs for tires, as they know consumers’ time is limited and if the dealership can provide value, people will do business there rather than driving all over town to save a few dollars. We are also seeing this on other repair parts: brakes, air filters, belts, hoses etc.

What brands does OpenRoad carry?

CM: OpenRoad stores have access to multiple tire warehouses and distributors, so we are able to supply most major brands. There are some offshore or in-house makes that we may not be able to source, but for the various sizes and tire categories, we would be able to find a comparable example and even offer multiple options based on price and/or performance.

Any other advice?

CM: Your dealer knows your vehicle best. OpenRoad technicians have been trained specifically on your make and model and it’s systems, and work on those vehicles on a daily basis. When considering something as important as tires you want to ensure it’s done correctly. With new technology like TPMS (tire pressure monitoring) sensors, correct scanning tool are required to program, read and diagnose data from each sensor. Some independent repair facilities or tire stores may not have the capability to program and interface with the technology correctly.

Contact OpenRoad’s service and parts department to learn more.

Hyundai Tucson receives significant refresh for 2019 model year

Benjamin Yong on April 30, 2018

As part of Hyundai’s mandate to introduce eight new or significantly updated CUVs by 2020, the Tucson is the fifth example to debut following the recently announced Kona range of subcompacts. The popular small crossover receives a fresh face and rear fascia, lighting and numerous cabin upgrades.

“From a design perspective, onlookers will recognize a generational harmony between Hyundai’s new 2019 Santa Fe and the refreshed Tucson,” said Steve Flamand, director of product and corporate strategy at Hyundai Auto Canada.

“The signature elements of the Hyundai cascading grille and modern-day surfacing found in the rear view create shadowy, dramatic impressions and represent the Hyundai DNA.”

2019 Hyundai Tucson rear

The cascading grille in question embodies the brand’s current signature styling featuring a hexagonal shape, outlined in chrome and reaching deep down into the front bumper. The headlights’ edges have been softened, and the tail lamps at the back slimmed and stretched for a more aerodynamic appearance.

Inside the vehicle, the remodelled centre stack layout has a seven-inch central display that is now a freestanding style, moved above the HVAC vents. Tech-saavy rear passengers should be happy to find the addition of USB inputs and wireless charging capability to the second row. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone interfacing capability is standard.

The small SUV can be ordered housing one of two engine flavours: a 2.0-litre four cylinder producing 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-litre four-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Both motors are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission offering a SHIFTRONIC manual-shifting mode.

2019 Hyundai Tucson interior

Consumers may also bundle in a long list of available safety technologies such as forward collision mitigation, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, radar cruise control and more. Look for the 2019 Hyundai Tucson to arrive in stores soon.