NISSAN Z GT500 FINISHES SECOND, THIRD AND FIFTH IN 2023 SUPER GT SERIES

YOKOHAMA, Japan (November 5, 2023) – The 2023 Super GT Series concluded with a heart-pounding finale at Mobility Resort Motegi in Tochigi Prefecture on November 5. Displaying remarkable resilience in difficult driving conditions, the #23 Z held its ground and ultimately finished in second place. The #1 Z, which had climbed up from 10th on the grid, secured an impressive fourth place finish.

The results of the final round solidified the season standings, with three Nissan Z GT500 cars finishing in the top five. The #3 Z ended the season in second, the #23 Z in third, and the #1 Z in fifth. While Nissan narrowly missed out on back-to-back title wins, the season showcased the speed and strength of the Nissan Z GT500.

Leading the Nissan/NISMO camps into the finale was the #3 Niterra MOTUL Z, which entered the final round in second in the rankings. The stage was set for a gripping battle, with the 3 Z securing pole position and further strengthening its chances of securing the series title. As the race kicked off under cloudy skies, the tension in the air was palpable. Katsumasa Chiyo in the #3 Z, started from pole position and defended his lead fiercely. Ronnie Quintarelli in the #23 MOTUL AUTECH Z showcased remarkable skill, moving up to fourth position. The early laps of the race saw the competitors continue to vie for position, with the #3 Z leading the pack, the #23 Z following in fourth, the #24 Z in fifth, and the #1 Z in ninth.

The race took its first turn around lap five when rain began to fall on parts of the track. The changing weather conditions posed a challenge, causing some cars to lose positions while others capitalized. Bertrand Baguette in the #1 MARELLI IMPUL Z displayed solid driving, steadily moving up the ranks and reaching fifth place by lap 10. The #24 REALIZE

CORPORATION ADVAN Z, unfortunately, struggled to maintain its pace in the rain, leading to an early pit stop after 13 laps for a tire change and refueling. As the rain subsided, the #3 Z continued to dominate, widening the gap with the rest of the field. By lap 41, after all GT500 class cars had completed their pit stops, the #3 Z regained its lead. However, the race was far from over. The #23 Z, after briefly dropping to fourth, made a strong comeback in the intensifying rain, reclaiming third by lap 57. The #1 Z also showcased impressive driving, moving up to fourth.

In the closing laps, the increasing rain made the track conditions challenging, resulting in a thrilling battle for supremacy. The #3 Z, running alone in the lead, unfortunately lost control on lap 59, going off course and dropping to 13th position.

#23 Z driver Tsugio Matsuda stated, “The last 15 laps of my stint were tough and I was overtaken. However, I fought back by being fast in the rain and was able to close the gap with the top cars.” Quintarelli followed, “It was a good race for the #23 Z to finish on the podium in second place and to take third in the championship.”

In the GT300 class five Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 cars competed, with the #56 REALIZE NISSAN MECHANIC CHALLENGE GT-R achieving an impressive sixth place finish after starting from the back of the grid in 24th. The #56 GT-R finished the season in third place in the GT300 series standings.

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About Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                    Chuah Joo Ee
T: 03-2788 3157                                             T: 03-2788 3160 
E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com                    E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com         

Continue ReadingNISSAN Z GT500 FINISHES SECOND, THIRD AND FIFTH IN 2023 SUPER GT SERIES

TAN CHONG MOTOR RECOGNISED FOR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN THE NISSAN GLOBAL AWARD 2023 PROGRAM

  • Earns prestigious Nissan Global Award 2023 as the region’s outstanding performer
  • Recognised for achieving excellence in sales and aftersales categories
  • Tops the list of 19 markets evaluated over the fiscal period of April 2022 to March 2023

Kuala Lumpur, 9th October 2023 – Tan Chong & Sons Motor Company Sdn Bhd, the franchise holder of Nissan in Malaysia since 1957, has been recognised as the region’s top performer over the fiscal period of 2022, earning the prestigious accolade of Nissan Global Award winner.

Tan Chong Motor has been recognised as the region’s top performer in sales and aftersales in the Nissan Global Award 2023 program.

The Nissan Global Award Program for Importers recognises the efforts and achievements of Importers and National Sales Companies (NSC) in the areas of sales and aftersales.

Tan Chong & Sons Motor Company Sdn Bhd, through its sales and marketing arm, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) was adjudged the top performer among 19 eligible markets, excelling in overall sales volume, market share and customer service activities, sharing the honours alongside Tan Chong Motor Sales Pte Ltd of Singapore. On top of the achievement in sales, ETCM’s aftersales division also emerged as the top performer and Grand Prize winner in the regional aftersales category for the excellence shown in the areas of parts and accessory, service performance, logistics and customer service.

Mr. Yoshinori Kanazawa, Vice President of NIBU-ASEAN, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd handover the Nissan Global Award 2023 to Mr Christopher Tan, Sales & Marketing Director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd, for outstanding performance appraised over the fiscal period of April 2022 to March 2023

Despite the challenges posed by production supply shortages and turbulent market dynamics over the fiscal year of 2022, the team at Tan Chong Motor have shown that they are able to excel in adversity. Thus, it is an honour to present Tan Chong Motor with the Nissan Global Award 2023 in recognition of the outstanding performance as the official importer and distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia over the fiscal year of 2022,” said Yoshinori Kanazawa, Vice President of NIBU-ASEAN, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.

The Nissan brand in Malaysia is synonymous with Tan Chong. As business partners of over 60 years, we accept the Nissan Global Award 2023 with immense pride and humility. Our commitment to deliver exciting products and world-class services to our customers has never wavered and this award from Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd. is testament to the hard work and dedication that stems from the heart of every member of our organisation,” said Christopher Tan, the Sales & Marketing Director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd.

We stand alongside Nissan in support of their mission to drive innovation that enriches people’s life. Our new Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya, Selangor was recently unveiled to better serve our customers, while the remainder of the ETCM network is also being transformed in accordance to the latest Nissan Retail Concept,” added Tan. Tan Chong & Sons Motor Co., opened the first Nissan (formerly Datsun) showroom along Jalan Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur in 1957. Currently, the ETCM network encompasses 39 branches and 19 dealer outlets serving customers across Peninsula Malaysia as well as Labuan, Sabah and Sarawak. For the latest information and promotions on Nissan vehicles, visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.

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About Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                    Chuah Joo Ee
T: 03-2788 3157                                             T: 03-2788 3160 
E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com                     E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com         

Continue ReadingTAN CHONG MOTOR RECOGNISED FOR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN THE NISSAN GLOBAL AWARD 2023 PROGRAM

RUGGED SOPHISTICATION : MEET THE NEW NISSAN NAVARA BLACK EDITION

  • PRO-4X inspired styling touches adapted to the popular VL and V variants
  • Styling enhancements include stealthy blacked-out trim and gloss black rims
  • Unbeatable value proposition with premium accessories fitted as standard*

KUALA LUMPUR, 7th September 2023 – Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has unveiled the new Nissan Navara Black Edition which introduces styling enhancements and premium accessories to the popular VL and V variants of the Navara pick-up model range.

“Ever since the PRO-4X was introduced as part of the Nissan Narava mid-life makeover, the bold yet sophisticated styling of the flagship ‘Mother Trucker’ has been greatly coveted by fans of the Navara. At ETCM, we go the extra mile to delight customers, hence it is my pleasure to launch the new Nissan Navara Black Edition which incorporates the visual cues of the PRO-4X flagship to the popular VL and V variants, complemented by premium accessories for an unbeatable value proposition in the pick-up segment,” said Christopher Tan, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd.

The core styling elements of the Navara Black Edition encompass a new front grille cladding, door mirror covers and over fenders finished in gloss black, with the V variant getting gloss black 17-inch alloy wheels while the VL variant retains its black and polished 18-inch alloy wheels.

The eye-catching blacked-out grille previously exclusive to the flagship PRO-4X raises the appeal of the VL and V variants with a sophisticated yet rugged presence, particularly when it’s flanked by the striking Quad-LED Projector Headlamps with C-shaped LED Signature Daytime Running Lights. The stealthy black theme continues on the sides with gloss black door mirror covers paired with two-tone over fenders and alloy wheels with matching finish.

On top of that, the VL variant now comes fitted with accessories under the Protection Package; the extras include fuel tank guard, oil sump guard, kicking plate, driving video recorder, door visor and V-KOOL security film tinting. The V variant on the other hand receives the goodies of the Premium Package, namely the leather combination seats and V-KOOL security film tinting.

Capable in the wild, accomplished in the city

Both the VL and V variants are powered by the YD25 four-cylinder Common Rail Turbo-Diesel engine with a formidable output of 190PS and 450Nm, this thoroughly-proven engine is mated to a smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode gear selection option. To maximise traction in slippery or off-road conditions, torque is channelled to all four wheels via an electronically controlled 4WD system with Active Brake Limited Slip Differential.

When navigating city streets, the Navara can easily switch to the more fuel-efficient 2WD mode with just a flick on the handy Shift-On-The-Fly control dial. Unlike many pick-up trucks with leaf spring rear suspension, the Navara utilises a sophisticated Multi-link Coil Springs set up at the rear axle to improve passenger ride comfort without sacrificing load-carrying capabilities, striking that ideal balance between comfortable on- and formidable off-road performance.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility on the Nissan Navara

The high-tech safety features found on the Navara is testament to the principles of Nissan Intelligent Mobility being applied to everyday vehicles, pick-up trucks included. The Nissan Navara is one of the safest trucks in its class; both the VL and V variants are equipped with six airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist as standard.

On top of that, VL and V also come with Intelligent Predictive Forward Collision Warning that senses two vehicles ahead and Emergency Braking as well as Intelligent Driver Alertness, with the former adding on Intelligent Around View Monitor (360° Camera) with Off-Road Mode and Moving Object Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and High Beam Assist.

The Nissan Navara is priced at RM134,800 (V variant) and RM146,900 (VL variant). Available for viewing and test drive at all Nissan Showrooms nationwide. Adding to the excitement, ETCM is offering the Black Edition Accessories free of charge, RM800 fuel card and high trade-in offers to customers who purchase and register a new Nissan Navara this month!

Customers who are not able to visit a Nissan showroom, they may view necessary product information and arrange a doorstep test-drive from the comforts of their home through the Nissan Online Showroom at www.nissan.com.my/onlineshowroom/.

For more information, customers can visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.

* Black Edition accessories package is subject to stipulated promotional period.

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About Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                    Chuah Joo Ee
T: 03-2788 3157                                             T: 03-2788 3160 
E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com                    E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com         

Continue ReadingRUGGED SOPHISTICATION : MEET THE NEW NISSAN NAVARA BLACK EDITION

NEW NISSAN 3S FLAGSHIP STORE IN PETALING JAYA TO REDEFINE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES

  • Iconic 3S dealership is now the first ever Nissan flagship Store to serve customers in Petaling Jaya and the greater Klang Valley area
  • Personalised environment to delight new customers and existing Nissan owners
  • Flagship Store officiated by Makoto Uchida, the President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd

Petaling Jaya, 4th September 2023 – Customers and owners of Nissan vehicles will discover new experiences when they visit the first-ever Nissan Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.  Redesigned and upgraded in line with the latest Nissan Retail Concept (NRC-NEXT), the striking 3S Flagship Store serves as a beacon of automotive retail and after-sales excellence of the Nissan brand in Malaysia.

The Nissan Retail Concept aims to innovate Nissan dealerships and deliver world-class service standards to Nissan customers across the globe. It is centred on showcasing Nissan brand values on customer journeys at the dealership, whether it’s to test drive the latest model or to drop the car off for a regular service. Every touch point of a NRC-NEXT-compliant retail facility has been reimagined and refined to deliver excitement and satisfaction to the customer.

At the new Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya, the essence of timeless Japanese luxury has been incorporated to a modern yet functional setting to receive and host valued customers and cherished Nissan owners.

ETCM’s Nissan 3S Flagship Store with new Nissan Retail Concept (NRC) in Petaling Jaya

With an investment valued at RM4 million, the upgraded Nissan 3S Flagship Store at Petaling Jaya stands out with an eye-catching façade and proudly wears the sleek new logo which reflects on Nissan’s latest corporate identity.  On 10th August, this Flagship Store with its improved facilities was officiated by Makoto Uchida, President and Chief Executive Officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (NML), accompanied by directors and top executives of both NML and Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM).

President and CEO of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd, Mr. Makoto Uchida Officiates the Grand Opening of the New Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya.

(From Left to Right): 

  • Isao Sekiguchi – President ASEAN, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.,
  • Christopher Tan Kok Leong – Sales & Marketing Director, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd,
  • Asako Hoshino – Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.,
  • Dato’ Robert Tan – Director, Tan Chong & Sons Motor Company Sdn Bhd,
  • Makoto Uchida – President and Chief Executive Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., 
  • Daniel Ho Wai Ming – Group Chief Executive Officer, Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad,
  • Stephen Ma – Chief Financial Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.,
  • Chong Choon Yeng – Chief Financial Officer, Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad,
  • Yoshinori Kanazawa – Vice President of NIBU-ASEAN, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd.

“Our new Nissan 3S Flagship store in Petaling Jaya is testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, it is also a reflection of our commitment to elevate the experience of our customers when they visit this beautiful facility.  We would like our customers to undergo an amazing car-shopping experience from the moment they step into the showroom till they become a proud owner of a Nissan, and thereafter to discover excitement and memorable experiences in their ownership journeys!” enthused Christopher Tan, the Sales & Marketing Director of ETCM.

Top Management teams of Nissan and ETCM pose with the New Nissan Serena Premium Highway Star

“NML is honoured to have more than 60 years of long-term relationship with Tan Chong.  Today, we are very proud to officiate the opening ceremony of this new retail concept Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia; as it signifies our commitment to continue delighting Nissan owners for many more years to come.”

“At Nissan, our long-term vision is empowering mobility and beyond, as part of Nissan Ambition 2030.  We want to transform Nissan to become a sustainable brand that is truly needed by customers and society.  To achieve this, we will continue to work with our dealers and partners to deliver the best and most innovative products and services, as well as providing a more integrated, tailor-made Nissan customer experience.” Makoto Uchida said.

About the new Nissan 3S Flagship Store

Redefining customer experiences at the Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya begins with an all-new exterior façade highlighted by the unmistakable presence of the new Nissan logo. The signature red tablet can be seen from afar hovering over the dealership in a highway pole-style signage while another prominent emblem situated above the main entrance greets visitors to the facility. 

Service and Spare Parts centre all under one roof in the new Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya

Every facet of the 43,000-sq feet Flagship Store, from its carefully chosen colour palette, premium appointments, to the contemporary layout and plush furnishing aim to welcome customers to a whole new level of comfort and convenience. Customers are able to experience up to eight models on display in a conducive and relaxed environment, with professionally-trained sales advisors ready to attend to product enquiries and to arrange test drives from the complete lineup of new Nissan models.

At a time when automotive customer service is becoming more impersonal, ETCM is committed to engagement on a personal level as vehicle purchases are important acquisitions in Malaysia.  

Modern Interior with a spacious and premium customer reception 
The new NRC interior layout provides a seamless flow between the new vehicle delivery bays, viewing gallery and customer reception

Aside from two new vehicle delivery bays and three EV chargers, there are also a spacious and airy customer reception, high-speed internet connectivity, specially assigned areas for private discussions and even a kids’ room to keep the little ones safe and occupied.

For existing Nissan owners returning for after-sales services at the Flagship Store, a Service Concierge has been set up to offer immediate assistance to owners at the entrance of the Service Centre, this is then complemented by a newly furnished reception area with comfortable seating as respective Service Advisors attend to owners.

A new Service Concierge located at the front of the Service Centre entrance offers personal assistance to Nissan owners, as well as to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience for every customer
Modern and comfortable Aftersales Service reception area for service advisors to present the service packages to customers, ensuring an elevated Brand experience for Nissan owners  

The Service Centre at the Nissan 3S Flagship Store features 25 general service bays which are equipped with hoists, as well as dedicated bays for air-conditioning and wheel alignment service. On top of that, there are also individual rooms earmarked for EV repairs and vehicles that may require extensive remedial work.

New Aircond Bay for technician to conduct the air conditioning service
Wheel Alignment and Balancing Bay with sophisticated equipment for technicians to ensure the wheels and suspension are correctly aligned
EV Heavy Repair Room for specialists to conduct a thorough inspection of an EV’s major components using specialised diagnostic tools

Up to 100 vehicles can be serviced daily by the experienced 25-member after-sales team at the Nissan 3S Flagship Store. Every technician at the Service Centre is Nissan-certified and backed by a well-stocked spare parts warehouse utilising only Nissan Genuine Parts for a total peace-of-mind.

Caption: All 25 service bays are equipped with hoists to accommodate high-efficiency vehicle service operations on a daily basis

Location and operating hours of the ETCM Nissan 3S Flagship Store in Petaling Jaya are as follows:

AddressLot 9, Jalan Kemajuan 12/18, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Operating hoursShowroom:
Monday – Saturday        : 9:00am – 7.00pm
Sunday / Public Holiday : 10.00am – 5.00pm

Service Centre:
Monday – Saturday         : 7:30am – 5.00pm
Sunday / Public Holiday : 8.30am – 5.00pm
ContactShowroom:
03-7957 5940, 03-7957 5821

Service Centre:
03-7955 3372, 03-7955 3288
E-mailetcmpj@tanchonggroup.com

For more information, customers can visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.

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About Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                    Chuah Joo Ee
T: 03-2788 3157                                             T: 03-2788 3160 
E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com                     E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com         

Continue ReadingNEW NISSAN 3S FLAGSHIP STORE IN PETALING JAYA TO REDEFINE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES

DISCOVER EXCITEMENT WITH AN ADRENALINE-PUMPING EXPERIENCE AT REDLINE FITNESS GAMES POWERED BY NISSAN!

Kuala Lumpur, 28 July 2023– Attention gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for the ultimate functional fitness race, as the highly anticipated REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN takes Malaysia by storm with its unprecedented, first-of-its-kind large-scale debut!

The excitement reached its peak at the launch event held at the Curve as REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN announced an exciting grand lucky draw prize – a brand new NISSAN Almera!

Taking place on 23 and 24 September 2023 at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC), this groundbreaking event is set to be the largest fitness competition ever held in the country. With the aim of testing and measuring fitness levels, participants can expect an adrenaline-pumping and unforgettable experience that will push their limits.

“We are extremely excited to host the inaugural REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN in Malaysia, where local and international fitness enthusiasts will converge. This event goes beyond just being a competition; it’s a transformative experience that will ignite a fire within participants, challenging them to push beyond their perceived limits and discover their personal REDLINE. Since we launched early bird tickets earlier this month, the response and support has been phenomenal. We can’t wait to feel the excitement, energy, and passion that our participants will bring to the Games come September,” said Callum Meehan, Events Director of REDLINE.

“At NISSAN, we are more than just a car. We are also a mood enhancer, confidence maker and smile creator, allowing each driver to discover new excitements with every ride. As such, we are really proud to be part of this event as it reflects our commitment to deliver excitement and at the same time, promote a healthy lifestyle and encourage people to always continue to push their boundaries,” said Christopher Tan, Sales & Marketing Director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd.

Make no mistake, the REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN is a fitness competition unlike any other; providing individuals an exclusive opportunity to unleash their true fitness potential and take part in a truly immersive and engaging fitness spectacle.

This will be done through a meticulously crafted course consisting of 12 workout stations , from the heart-pounding cardio of the “Ski-erg” station to the raw power of the “Dead Ball Burpees”, each station promises an immersive experience that will challenge every facet of your fitness. Engage your agility in the thrilling “Agility Chamber” and harness your explosive strength in the demanding “Sled Push”. There will also be three NISSAN Red Zone challenges where participants can test their cardiorespiratory and muscular endurance.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! As part of the grand finale activation, the four strongest participants can also look forward to an adrenaline-fueled NISSAN Navara truck pull, a feat of raw power and resilience. These specially designed workout stations will test your physical and mental fortitude, propelling you to surpass your preconceived boundaries and reach new heights of achievement.

Participants can choose from a variety of thrilling categories to showcase their fitness prowess, including Men’s and Women’s Singles (open and competitive divisions), Doubles (Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles), and Team Relay (Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed with two men and two women). Regardless of your fitness level or preferred style of competition, there’s a category that will challenge and inspire you to go above and beyond.

REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN is proudly brought to you by its Official Presenting Partner, NISSAN. The event is also supported by FLY FM as the official Radio Partner, 100 Plus as the Hydration Partner, along with main partners such as Fitness First, Celebrity Fitness, CHI Fitness, Optimum Nutrition, Aviron Racing, Concept 2, and Savage Gears.

Tickets can be purchased at www.redlinefitnessgames.com and also look out for REDLINE’s roadshows that are happening below:

Sign up today and get ready to rev your engines and ignite your passion at REDLINE Fitness Games Powered by NISSAN!

-END-

About REDLINE and Fresh Events Asia

REDLINE Fitness Games is a new functional fitness event brand that is owned and operated by Fresh Events Asia Sdn. Bhd. REDLINE is the ultimate fitness race for gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts. Launched in 2023 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, REDLINE is taking the local fitness race space by storm, with plans afoot for regional expansion across South East Asia in 2024 and beyond.

Fresh Events Asia, based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia also operates The Music Run™ and POWERMAN Malaysia.  In operation since 2014, Fresh Events Asia have hosted over 50 mass participation events in over 15 countries to over 500,000 participants.

About Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                                          Chuah Joo Ee
T: 03-2788 3157   T: 03-2788 3160
E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com

Continue ReadingDISCOVER EXCITEMENT WITH AN ADRENALINE-PUMPING EXPERIENCE AT REDLINE FITNESS GAMES POWERED BY NISSAN!

DOUBLE TITLE WIN FOR NISSAN AT FUJI SPEEDWAY

YOKOHAMA, Japan – The #3 Niterra MOTUL Z secured its first win of the season in a thrilling race on August 6 at Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka Prefecture and is now ranked No. 1 in the series.

The race started at 1:45 p.m. under light rain and full-wet conditions, with the safety car (SC) leading the way. The green signal was lit after two laps behind the SC and the #3 Z showcased exceptional pace in the wet, quickly overtaking the top two cars on the 3rd lap, propelling itself to 2nd position. On the 4th lap, it successfully passed the #24 REALIZE CORPORATION ADVAN Z, which had started in pole position, to claim the lead.

Meanwhile, the #23 MOTUL AUTECH Z, starting from 13th position, faced a setback, having to make a penalty pit stop after five laps due to replacing the monocoque following its accident in the previous race, and this dropped it back to the tail end. Conversely, the #1 MARELLI IMPUL Z, starting from 14th position, made significant progress by passing four cars to reach 10th.

As the race progressed, the rain ceased, and the track conditions improved rapidly. This prompted most cars to pit and switch to slick tires after 10 laps. By the end of lap 17, the #3 Z was in 4th, the #1 Z in 5th, the #24 Z in 12th, and the #23 Z in 15th.

On lap 35, a GT300 car caught fire, leading to the deployment of the safety car (SC). This closed the gap between the cars, setting the stage for an intense battle for positions on the restart from lap 41. Right after the restart, the #3 Z advanced to 2nd, the #1 Z to 3rd, and the #24 Z to 8th.

As the race reached its midpoint, the #1 Z lost pace and dropped to 5th position. Consequently, it opted for a pit stop on lap 54. After 56 laps, the #3 Z and #24 Z also pitted, and both teams made driver changes. The #3 Z re-entered the race in 8th position, but after all GT500 class cars had pitted, it had moved up to 4th position.

The race was disrupted again in lap 65 due to a fire in a GT300 class car, causing the race to be red flagged at the end of lap 67. At this point, the #3 Z held 4th place, followed by the #24 Z in 9th, the #1 Z in 11th, and the #23 Z in 15th.

The race remained suspended for over 40 minutes to remove the damaged car and repair the barrier. The weather worsened during this time, with heavy rain falling in some area. All cars switched to rain tires and after 4 laps behind the SC, the race resumed.

In the challenging final stages of the race, Mitsunori Takaboshi in the #3 Z exhibited outstanding speed in the wet. He made impressive overtakes and secured the lead on lap 75. With each lap, Takaboshi extended his lead, eventually crossing the finish line with a significant lead over the rest of the field. After 100 laps, Takaboshi had secured the team’s first win of the season and put the #3 Z in the No. 1 spot for the series.

The #24 Z struggled with tire wear and matching in the wet, finishing in 10th place. The #23 Z finished 13th, and the #1 Z in 15th.

#3 driver Katsumasa Chiyo, reflecting on the team’s performance, praised the preparation leading up to the race and highlighted Takaboshi’s excellent driving in the second half. Takaboshi was overjoyed by the victory and credited Chiyo’s initial performance and tire advice during the red flag period for their success.

In the GT300 class, five NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3 cars competed. The #11 GAINER TANAX GT-R, which qualified 3rd, showed excellent adaptability in a rough race and achieved its first win of the season. The #56 Realize Nissan Mechanic Challenge GT-R and the #10 PONOS GAINER GT-R finished in 4th and 7th place respectively, with the remaining two GT-Rs also completing the race.

The next round of the SUPER GT will be held at Suzuka Circuit on August 27th.

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Continue ReadingDOUBLE TITLE WIN FOR NISSAN AT FUJI SPEEDWAY

NEW NISSAN RETAIL CONCEPT (NRC) SHOWROOM IN PUCHONG, SELANGOR

  • Newly upgraded Nissan sales showroom to serve Puchong & Seri Kembangan customers
  • Designed to NRC-NEXT, Nissan’s latest and newest global retail concept

Kuala Lumpur, July 10, 2023 – Constantly striving to elevate customer experience, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) is pleased to announce the opening of the newly upgraded Nissan showroom in Puchong, Selangor. The grand opening of the new NRC showroom is aligned with ETCM’s business direction to deliver the enhanced global plan to innovate Nissan showrooms and provide an exciting Nissan brand experience throughout the customer journey.

Officiated by Mr. Rupesh Shah, General Manager, Aftersales, Dealer Network Development, NIBU – ASEAN, NISSAN MOTOR ASIA PACIFIC CO., LTD.; the upgraded Nissan showroom incorporates the Nissan Corporate Identity with the new Nissan logo, in accordance with NRC-NEXT, the latest and newest global Nissan Retail Concept to provide customers with an elevated brand experience.

The iconic red Nissan tablet above the main entrance door with its signature red handles, provide a bold statement, welcoming customers to the showroom to experience a whole new level of premium comfort and convenience, with a modern interior layout and furniture design. Customers can view all Nissan models, with the Star Car prominently on display. Presently, the Star Car is the recently launched New Serena Hybrid J-IMPUL. 

The newly upgraded showroom covering a total built-up area of 7,502 square feet, features up to 6 Nissan display models, a fleet of test drive vehicles, a dedicated new vehicle delivery area, a cozy customer lounge with WiFi connectivity and a fun kids’ corner to entertain the little ones, leaving their parents free to browse and engage with the friendly and attentive sales team at any time.

Customers are welcome to test-drive the range of models available, to fully experience the excitement of driving a Nissan. Test drives can even be arranged at customers’ home or offices, for their convenience.

Location and operating hours of the ETCM Nissan Puchong showroom is as follows; while aftersales support is just 5-minutes away, at Tan Chong Express Auto Service (TCEAS) Puchong Jaya:

AddressNo 2G, Jalan Bandar Tiga, Pusat Bandar Baru, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Operating hours    Sales Monday – Saturday :  9.00am – 7.00pm
Sunday/Public Holiday :  10.00am – 5.00pm    
   

In line with the direction to strengthen Nissan’s overall presence in Malaysia, ETCM is proud to announce the NRC-NEXT showrooms upgrade of dealer partners, Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd in Kulai, Johor and Ngu Brothers Motor Service Sdn Bhd in Sibu, Sarawak.

Dealer NameKulai Public Motor Sdn. Bhd.
AddressNo. 131, 132, 133, Jalan Selangat, Taman Saleng Jaya, 81400 Senai, Johor.
Operating hoursShowroom Monday – Saturday :  9am – 6pm
Sunday & Public Holiday :  10am – 6pm
Dealer NameNgu Brothers Motor Service Sdn. Bhd.
AddressNo. 19C & 19D, Jalan Lanang, Pekan Sibu, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak.
Operating hours  Showroom
Monday – Saturday : 8:00am – 5.00pm
Sunday / Public Holiday : 8.00am – 12.00pm

 
Aftersales Service
Monday – Saturday : 8:00am – 5.30pm
Sunday : Off
Public Holiday : 8.00am – 12.00pm

For more information, customers can visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.

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About Tan Chong Motor Holding Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                  Chuah Joo Ee

T: 03-2788 3157                                           T: 03-2788 3160

E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com             E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com

Continue ReadingNEW NISSAN RETAIL CONCEPT (NRC) SHOWROOM IN PUCHONG, SELANGOR

ETCM INTRODUCES THE NEW [br]NISSAN SERENA J IMPUL

Rediscover style and luxury in Malaysia’s best-selling hybrid MPV

  • A stylish new variant to complement the Serena line-up
  • Made-in-Japan J IMPUL aerokit featuring front and rear chrome-plated garnish
  • Made-in-Japan 18-inch IMPUL Millennium alloy wheels in black and polished finish
  • Ultra high-performance 225/40 R18 Goodyear Eagle F1 Sport tyres fitted as standard
  • Two-tone burgundy and black combination Nappa leather interior with unique Japanese rock garden inspired pattern and IMPUL logo embroidery

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6, 2023 – The best-selling hybrid MPV in Malaysia is now more stylish and luxurious than ever with the introduction of the new Nissan Serena J IMPUL.

Premium Beauty

The Serena J IMPUL builds on the strengths of the Premium Highway Star Package and adds classy exterior touches, a sportier stance and a luxurious cabin ambience, all of which were exclusively developed in collaboration with renowned aftermarket tuner IMPUL Japan.

At the front, the elegant expression of the Serena is enhanced with a chrome garnish that accentuates the aggressive profile of the front bumper, the trim also complements the distinctive chrome inserts of Nissan’s bold V-Motion front grille. At the rear, chrome trim is applied to the lower edge of the bumper to visually differentiate the J IMPUL and likewise matches the front chrome accent and IMPUL emblem found on the tail-gate.

The exterior package of the Serena J IMPUL is rounded off with a set of IMPUL Millennium Y-spoke alloy wheels with a black and polished finish. These lightweight 18-inch alloys are polished to perfection and manufactured in Japan.

To ensure surefooted handling and a smooth ride, the Serena J IMPUL is equipped with ultra high-performance Goodyear Eagle F1 Sport tyres with signature Eagle Claw tread design and ActiveControl Technology for outstanding stability and steering response. It also delivers superior braking through its DynamicBraking Technology along with a quiet and comfortable ride.

The spacious interior of the Serena also receives a premium IMPUL makeover with the seats and door trims upholstered in combination leather. Not only is the handpicked Nappa leather supple and luxurious to the touch, the contrasting hues of burgundy and black also lifts the cabin ambience significantly with a unique Japanese rock garden inspired seat pattern and embroidered IMPUL logo to match. The new Nissan Serena J IMPUL retails for RM169,888. All IMPUL accessories are factory-fitted and enjoy a warranty of 3 years or 100,000km, whichever comes first.

* On-the-road price without Insurance.

Conveniently Efficient

While the Serena J IMPUL stands as the ultimate expression of style and luxury, all the class-leading attributes which make the Serena the preferred premium MPV still hold true. Innovative features such as the Dual Back Door with split tailgate operation offers unparalleled loading flexibility in tight spaces, while getting into the Serena is easy even when you have your hands full courtesy of the hands-free Dual Power Sliding Doors – both features are class-leading conveniences enjoyed exclusively by Serena owners and not found on other MPVs.

Other equally thoughtful conveniences include seven USB charging points, built-in window sunshades, power door-opening switch in the third row and a plethora of storage solutions catering to different use cases.

The Serena also addresses the inflationary concerns in the post-Covid era with its fuel-efficient S-Hybrid powertrain comprising the MR20DD 2.0-litre CVTC four-cylinder engine supported by an Energy Control electric motor. The total system output of 150hp and 200Nm capably powers the seven-seater via a smooth X-TRONIC CVT with Adaptive Shift Control. More importantly, it returns a remarkable fuel economy of 14.2km/l, equivalent to 852km on a full tank of fuel.

Nissan Intelligent Mobility makes Life Better and Safer

As more vehicles return to the road, occupant safety is now of utmost importance. Every Serena is equipped withNissan Intelligent Mobility360° Safety Shield as standard, offering advanced drive assist functions such as Intelligent Predictive Forward Collision Warning and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking which scan the traffic ahead to forewarn the driver of imminent danger and automatically applies braking to mitigate the circumstances in the event of an unavoidable collision.

Managing urban traffic has also been made easier with Blind Spot Warning which alerts the driver of nearby vehicles concealed by the vehicle’s blind spot, this function is aided by Lane Departure Warning which scans road markings and warns the driver when the vehicle encroaches upon adjacent lanes.

When it comes to manoeuvres at parking speeds, the Serena’s Intelligent Around View Monitor (360° cameras) and Moving Object Detection offers a bird’s eye view of the vehicle while automatically senses moving objects around the vehicle, such as a child or a pet. This function is supplemented by Rear Cross Traffic Alert which warns the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing.

Driver fatigue during long distance travel is also addressed with Intelligent Driver Alertness which monitors steering inputs to determine if the driver is paying attention. If the driver is inattentive, the Serena would recommend taking a break. All of which sums up Nissan Intelligent Mobility – a suite of cutting-edge technologies designed to increase safety, comfort and control while driving, connecting you with your vehicle and the environment around you.

On top of all the advanced safety features, the updated Nissan Serena S-HYBRID is also equipped with six airbags, Vehicle Dynamic Control with Traction Control System, ABS with Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Brake Assist, ISOFIX child seat mounts and Hill Start Assist as standard to ensure precious occupants of this seven-seater MPV are always well protected.

The new Nissan Serena J IMPUL is available for viewing and test drive at all Nissan showrooms nationwide. For customers who are not able to visit a Nissan showroom, they may view necessary product information and arrange a doorstep test-drive from the comforts of their home through the Nissan Online Showroom at nissan.com.my/onlineshowroom/.

For more information, customers can visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.

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About IMPUL

Established in 1980, IMPUL specialises in the development, production and sales of high-performance vehicles, as well as bespoke parts and accessories exclusively for Nissan vehicles. The IMPUL brand is also synonymous with motorsports in Japan, and Team IMPUL are currently the reigning champions in the Super GT class after clinching the GT500 championship in 2022

About Tan Chong Motor Holding Berhad

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn. Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH), is the sales and marketing arm of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia. In 1957, Tan Chong Motors was appointed the franchise holder of Nissan/Datsun vehicles in Malaysia and Nissan/Datsun became the best-selling brand in the country in 1970. TCMH was listed on the Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 1974. The group is principally involved in the assembly and distribution of automobiles. To complement TCMH’s auto business, TCMH provides a wide range of services such as vehicle after sales, hire purchase financing, leasing, and insurance.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Tiffany Tan                                                  Chuah Joo Ee

T: 03-2788 3157                                           T: 03-2788 3160

E: tiffany@tanchonggroup.com             E: jooee.chuah@tanchonggroup.com

Continue ReadingETCM INTRODUCES THE NEW [br]NISSAN SERENA J IMPUL

NEW NISSAN RETAIL CONCEPT (NRC) SHOWROOM IN SENAI, JOHOR

  • Brand-new Nissan outlet to cater to Senai, Johor
  • Designed to NRC-NEXT, Nissan’s latest and newest global retail concept
  • Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd, vast and long experience in automotive business – sales & aftersales service
  • Nissan Electrifying Drive weekend event open for public

Senai, Johor (20th May 2023) – Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd (KPM) has opened its brand-new Nissan showroom in Senai, Johor.  The grand opening of the new Nissan Retail Concept (NRC) showroom is aligned with Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM)’s business direction in delivering the enhanced global plan to innovate Nissan showrooms and provide the global Nissan brand experience throughout the customer journey in sales and aftersales services.

The new Nissan outlet incorporates Nissan Corporate Identity with the new Nissan logo, in accordance with NRC-NEXT, the latest and newest global Nissan Retail Concept to provide customers with an elevated brand experience.

The showroom’s new exterior with its iconic red Nissan tablet signage provides a bold impression, while customers to the showroom will experience a whole new level of premium comfortable environment with a modern interior layout and furniture design. Customers can view all Nissan models, with the Star Car prominently on display. Presently, the Star Car is the recently launched New Nissan Leaf EV. 

Besides the warm, welcoming atmosphere, there’s also a café-styled modern customer lounge to relax in and enjoy refreshments. The outlet is manned by a professional 9 person’s sales team.  Private rooms are also available for discussions between customers and Sales Advisors.

The newly invested of RM1.6 million showroom covers a total built-up area of 4,200 square feet and has ample customer parking, a fleet of test drive vehicles, displays up to 5 Nissan models and a dedicated new vehicle delivery area. Additional facilities such as FREE Wi-Fi connectivity and a fun kids’ corner are provided for customers and their family to enjoy.

Customers are welcome to request for test-drives so that they can experience the excitement of driving Nissan vehicles.  Attentive and friendly Nissan Sales Advisors are ever present to answer questions and provide information at any time.  For customer convenience, test drives can even be arranged at customers home or offices.

Just a few minutes’ drive down the road, Nissan owners can obtain aftersales services provided by Nissan certified technicians with assured supply of quality Nissan Genuine Parts. The service centre has 5 service bays and is fully equipped to ensure maintenance services are carried out efficiently and effectively, by experienced and well trained 8 members aftersales service team.

Location and operating hours of the KPM Nissan Showroom is as follow.

Address  No. 131, 132, 133, Jalan Selangat, Taman Saleng Jaya, 81400 Senai, Johor.
  Operating hours      Showroom
Monday – Saturday:  9am –  6pm
Sunday & Public Holiday:   10am – 6pm

Location and operating hours of the KPM Nissan Aftersales Service Centre is as follow.

Address  No.51, Jalan SME 2, Kawasan Perindustrian SME, Kulai 81000, Johor.
  Operating hours      Service Centre
Monday – Friday:  8.30AM – 5.30PM Saturday : 8.30AM – 1.00PM
Sunday & Public Holiday:  Closed

Customers who wish to locate other authorised Nissan outlets in Malaysia can visit the Nissan Malaysia website at www.nissan.com.my. They can also contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838 for more information and support.

NISSAN ELECTRIFYING DRIVE Event
In conjunction with the grand opening of Kulai Public Motor Nissan showroom, the general public are cordially invited to experience the electrifying drive of the New Nissan LEAF EV and enjoy weekend only exciting offers!

Venue:Kulai Public Motor Sdn. Bhd.
Date:20 May 2023 (Sat) | 21 May 2023 (Sun)
 Time:1pm – 6pm | 10am – 6pm

There are Welcome gifts for all visitors, customers will received a mystery gift for each test-drive taken and lucky draw gifts for booking customers; as well as, up-to 100% Sales Tax Rebate for selected models*.

What’s more!? Purchasers of the new Nissan Serena MPV, Nissan Navara Pick-up, Nissan X-Trail SUV and Nissan Almera Turbo can enjoy savings up-to RM10,950 on the accessories package*.

*Terms apply

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About Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd
Kulai Public Motor was started in 1990 as Public Motor Enterprise. Our founder Lawrence Chua started as a Nissan salesman primarily servicing the area of Johor from the 1970s to 1990s. It was during this boom that the Malaysian automotive industry blossomed.

Today, Kulai Public Motor is one of the leading dealers of Nissan in Johor. Since 1990, we have assisted more than 5000+ customers with choosing the right Nissan to best meet and serve their needs and wants.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Calvin Chua                                                 
T: +60 12-771 0666                        
E: publicmotorenterprise@gmail.com

Continue ReadingNEW NISSAN RETAIL CONCEPT (NRC) SHOWROOM IN SENAI, JOHOR

TEAM NISSAN NISMO Zs TAKES 1-2 IN TURBULENT START OF THE SUPER GT SEASON

The opening round of the SUPER GT was met with unpredictable conditions that made for a very challenging race for the teams and drivers. Starting from the front row on an initially dry road surface, the #23 MOTUL AUTECH Z and #3 Niterra MOTUL Z pulled away from the rest of the field in 1st and 2nd. The #1 Z dropped to 14th position in the first lap but recovered to 12th by lap 5. It was at this point that the first few rain drops began to fall and by lap 12 the clouds fully opened up and drenched the track.

In lap 15, the #23 Z and #24 Z went into the pits to change to wet tires. Soon after, a car went off the course and a full course yellow (FCY) was called resulting in a dispatch of the safety car (SC) as cars continued to go off the course and spin due to the severe change in conditions. In lap 18, while the SC was still out, the #3 Z was running in 1st position, the #1 Z in 3rd position, with both on slicks, while the #23 Z was in 7th, and the #24 Z in 11th, both on wet tires. At the end of lap 19, the pit lane was opened and the #3 Z and #1 Z went in to change tires. This put the #23 Z into 3rd, the #24 Z into 7th, the #1 Z into 12th, and #3 Z into 13th.

The #23 Z’s tires struggled with the heavy rainfall and fell back to 6th by lap 24, but as the water gradually cleared from the course and the conditions improved, the #23 Z regained its pace and several positions. Running at a pace more than a second faster than its competitors, by lap 31 it had climbed back up to 2nd position. Then, in lap 41, the #23 Z retook the lead at the first corner, with the #3 Z following in 3rd, the #24 Z in 4th, and the #1 Z in 5th, seeing all four Z cars running in the top group.

After 42 laps, the #24 Z and #1 Z pitted and changed drivers, the #3 Z pitted at the end of lap 44, and the #23 Z at the end of lap 46. At this time, rain once again started to fall. This saw the #24 Z go off course at the hairpin, and although it was able to return to the track, it lost a number of positions. During another FCY, an accident occurred that brought out the SC in lap 51. With the rain becoming heavier, Matsuda in the #23 Z was running in the lead when the team instructed him to slip into the pits to change to wet tires just before the pit lane was closed. He returned to the course in 6th and the #3 Z moved up to 2nd position. As the rain became heavier and lightning was predicted, the race was red-flagged at the end lap 55.

After a 20-minute interruption, the race resumed with the SC leading the way. As soon as the race restarted, many cars changed to wet tires, and the #23 Z, which had already done so, took the lead. After quickly changing tires, the #3 Z returned to the lineup in 3rd position, and then an accident happened to the car running in 2nd, allowing the #3 Z to take its place, giving the Zs a 1-2 formation at the top. The #1 Z was running in 7th position, within the points sphere and the SC run was briefly lifted, but some cars stopped on the course and the SC was brought out once again. Conditions worsened further, and the race was red-flagged again after 61 laps.

Following a final SC led restart, the conditions failed to improve, and the race was red-flagged again, bringing about an early finish at the end of lap 63. The pole sitting, #23 Z showed consistent speed and ability to adapt to win the race, despite the turbulent conditions. The #3 Z also showed solid pace to finish in 2nd, and the Zs finished the season opener with an impressive 1-2 finish from after qualifying in the same. The #1 Z finished 6th, and the #24 Z 14th.

Following the race #23 driver Tsugio Matsuda said, “I didn’t expect the conditions to be so unpredictable, but I think luck was on our side and the team’s pit decisions were spot on. I want to thank the entire crew of the #23 car. I am glad that we were able to start this season in such a good way after all the hard work we put in last season.” Ronnie Quintarellifollowed, “I think it was literally a perfect weekend. In today’s race we had to deal with a lot of difficult situations regarding tire choice and other things we had to endure as drivers, but we were able to handle it all and get the best result possible. This is my first opening-round win since 2016, and I am very grateful to the team staff as well as NISMO and Michelin for providing us with a great car.”

In the GT300 class five NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3s competed in the GT300 class. In a race that was red-flagged three times due to bad weather conditions, three cars were able to finish the race. Starting from 8th on the grid, the #56 REALIZE NISSAN MECHANIC CHALLENGE GT-R finished 10th, the #10 PONOS GAINER GT-R 11th, and the #48 SHOKUMOU Ks Frontier GT-R 18th.

Continue ReadingTEAM NISSAN NISMO Zs TAKES 1-2 IN TURBULENT START OF THE SUPER GT SEASON