Drive Myanmar #2 English by Lychee Media

TEST DRIVE

Jaguar XF CLASSIC TRIBUTES

Ferrari 250 GTO

EDUCATION

Prepare For Rain TRAVEL

Mandalay in a Nissan Cedric

Jul— Aug 2016 | #2 | 2,500 Ks

M YA N M A R ’ S F I R S T A N D O N L Y P R E M I U M C A R M A G A Z I N E

6 a.m. YANGON Strand Road, Outside Pansodan Ferry Terminal Jaguar F-Type Photography by Gerhard Jörén

6 p.m. YANGON Photography by Gerhard Jörén

#2 | Jul—Aug 2016

Cover Shot: Jaguar F-Type Location: Strand Road, Yangon Photography by: Gerhard Jörén

EDITOR’S LETTER

Publisher Pyit Thiri Thaw Lychee Ventures (Myanmar) Limited Permit No.: 01666

Cameron Cooper

Managing Director Andreas Sigurdsson andreas@lycheeventures.com

Welcome to the second issue of DRIVE Magazine – or if you caught our first issue, welcome back.

Chief Editor Cameron Cooper editor@lycheeventures.com

Those who did read our first issue (and thanks to all of you) will notice many new features in our ongoing evolution as Myanmar’s premier car magazine. This time out, we have gathered the local automotive community into the fold, featuring interactions with traffic police, taxi drivers, the man and woman on the street, mechanics and other local characters to give a voice to Myanmar’s unique automotive community. Alongside this, we keep you updated on the numerous new incoming models, as well as letting you know what else is out there in the big bad world of cars. We may not be able to afford or even obtain at any price some of the world’s greatest automotive achievements – past and present – but that doesn’t stop us enjoying reading about them. Without such sweet dreams, life would be very dull indeed. We will continue bringing you all the car news that’s fit to print, both locally and internationally and adding more features and pages as we continue to find our stride. Meanwhile, thanks for joining us, and please enjoy.

Editor / Translator Aung Heing Oo Creative Director Richie Chan richie@lycheeventures.com Operations Mai Aye Mya Thida Design Kyaw Kyaw Tun Contributors Elias DuBose Gerhard Jörén Hong Sar Jack Picone Khine Maung Lay Liz Smailes Thet Ko Yoon Yoon Copy Editing / Proofreader Ben Hopkins Charles Turner Administration Sandar Min Advertising Sales Aung Pyae Phyo sales@lycheeventures.com 01 375 680 / 0977 900 3702

CONTENTS NEWS

13—22 What’s New: New Model Launches in Myanmar TEST DRIVE 24—27 The Cat Came Back: Jaguar XF Review 28—33 Fun & Function: Range Rover Evoque Review FEATURE 34—36 Luxury Muscle: The Bentley Flying Spur 38—43 The Price of Performance: Ferrari 250 GTO

STREETS 44—45 The Woman Behind The Wheel TRAVEL 46—52 On The Road to Mandalay PEOPLE 54—56 Lieutenant Colonel Ko Ko Naing, Commander of Lanmadaw District Patrol

BRAND GUIDE 57—59 Jaguar

EDUCATION

NEWS

60—61 Preparing Your Car to Survive the Monsoon MAINTENANCE 62—65 The Fixer & 5 Tips to D.I.Y. Maintenance for Your Car

What’s New

INSURANCE 66 How Much Car Insurance Do You Need? GADGETS 67—69 Virtual Reality: The New Frontier

When it comes to cars, Myanmar is becoming spoiled for choice. So many new car brands and vehicles have been launching on a regular basis that it can be hard to keep up, so these opening pages of DRIVE are here to help you keep track of the latest options.

TIMEPIECES 70—73 The Spirit of the Race

Check out latest launches by:

SOCIETY 74—79 Motor Speed Rogues ILLUSTRATION 80 Aung Kyaw Decides to Walk to Work ADVERTORIAL

82 Hyundai Elantra CLASSIFIEDS

NEWS

CHEVROLET

— CHEVROLET —

MODERN AMERICAN STYLE On June 18, Pacific Alpine Myanmar launched two new Chevrolet models at their flagship 3S center in Yangon. The Chevrolet Sail 3, the third generation sub-compact sedan and the Chevrolet Suburban, its very hefty full-size and fully optioned SUV.

CHEVROLET CHEVROLET

SAIL

Good Thing, Small Package You always remember your first car. And that is what the Chevrolet Sail aspires to be – everyone’s first car. This subcompact is aimed at firsttime buyers, and this is a good thing, because everyone should enjoy the experience of a small car and their nimble handling and efficient use of space.

The Chinese-built Sail’s 1.5L DVVT engine puts out 110bhp and peak torque of 141 Nm and sips fuel at 5.4 liters per 100 km. Despite its small size, the body-frame is built to be robust and safe. And you get all the niceties you expect from much higher level cars, like the console screen and a decent sound system. At $26,000, it is a relative bargain in the Myanmar market, and it is, adittedly, kind of cute.

* Prices are given in USD for convenience and can vary with current exchange rate.

SUBURBAN

Every Option Available The Chevrolet Suburban is something of a legend. The nameplate and the intent of this huge vehicle have remained intact during its continuous production from 1935 to present. Now in its 11th generation, it may share some looks with its predecessors, but the technology is on a whole other level from even a couple of years ago. And it offers almost excessive amenities, with power ports everywhere you might want them, rear entertainment screens and more.

Add to that a powerful 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine, four wheel drive, power adjustable pedals and endless safety features, including lane-keep assist and on and on. It may cost $169,000, but they give you everything you could possibly dream of. The car’s systems even integrate with your smartphone. And while the styling has been updated in this latest incarnation, its roots as a primarily functional enormous car remain intact. It’s about as American as a car can be.

* Prices are given in USD for convenience and can vary with current exchange rate.

NEWS

FORD

— FORD —

ROUGH RIDERS On June 21st, Ford and its local partner Capital Automotive Limited, released two new robust vehicles, – the Ranger pickup truck and the Everest SUV – both hefty and roomy 4X4s that can handle any terrain you dare to travel on, whether wading through streams or climbing steep offroad hills. All models come with four-wheel drive, but give you the comforts of a saloon car.

Go Anywhere SUV

FORD RANGER

Trucking in Comfort and Style

FORD EVEREST

With a name like Everest, you know it’s got to be good in the mountains. And apparently it is, along with almost any other terrain – with a mode knob (sand, rock, snow, etc.) to optimize performance wherever you find yourself. But at the same time, it is a comfortable and refined class-topping urban SUV with three rows of flat-folding power seats for people who have lots of kids or friends, and plenty of niceties like separate rear aircon controls, reversing camera, voice command and many more modern amenities too numerous to list here.

The new updated Ranger comes in two XLT models and a new Double Cab Wildtrak that can accommodate the whole family inside and big loads of your luggage, the family dogs, a couple of bicycles or several hundred kilos of potatoes in the back. The Ranger now includes advanced safety features, with airbags all around, electronic stability and other driver aids. The upgraded powertrains are up to 12 percent more fuel efficient.

One of the toughest SUVs in its segment, the Everest has old-school body-on-frame design, assuring the torsional strength required for challenging terrains.

Ranger XLT comes in five new colours including Jet Black, Sparkling Gold, Aluminium Metallic and Meteor Grey. With a choice of the 160hp 2.2-litre or the 200hp 3.2-litre Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine and 6-Speed automatic, the Ranger is Myanmar’s most powerful pickup.

The Everest is available in eight colours, including Sunset Red, Jet Black, Aluminium Metallic and Sparkling Gold. Prices range from $62,250 for the 2.2litre 6-Speed Manual Everest Ambiente and from $89,000 for the range topping 3.2-litre 6-Speed Automatic Everest Titanium.

Ford Ranger Regular Cab 4x4 Commercial starts at $21,000; Ranger RAP Cab 4x4 XL from $27,500; and Ranger Double Cab XLT starts at $42,000. * Prices are given in USD for convenience and can vary with current exchange rate.

* Prices are given in USD for convenience and can vary with current exchange rate.

NEWS

CHEVROLET

New Models Launch 18 Jun 2016 @ Chevrolet 3S Yangon

SAIL & SUBURBAN

— CHEVROLET —

Photography by Hong Sar

NEWS

FORD

New Models Launch by Capital Automotive 21 Jun 2016

RANGE & EVEREST

— FORD —

Photography by Thet Ko

NEWS

TOYOTA MINGALAR’S

Official Launch 24—26 Jun 2016 @ Capital Hyper Market, Dawpon

CAR SHOW EVENT

Photography by Thet Ko

Fly with us 5 times between 1st July 2016 to 31st August 2016 and claim your “Dim Sum Lunch A La Carte Buﬀet coupon for two persons” at Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon!

TEST 1

TEST

JAGUAR XF REVIEW

THE CAT CAME BACK

The second generation of the Jaguar XF has been unleashed. Lighter, more aerodynamic, quicker, more tech-laden, more handsome and more spacious than its predecessor, the British marque is taking on the Germans head on – but on its own terms.

Many years ago, I coveted a Jaguar E-Type with a wide-eyed passion. I can’t recall where I saw it, probably a TV commercial, but I knew I had to have one. Then on Christmas Day 1967, beside the tree, there it was, all fiery red, long bonneted and spoked wheels: my dream come true. A Jaguar E-Type pedal car. I was the happiest five-year-old on planet Earth. I was finally the proud owner of a Jag. Point being, a car has to make a hell of an impression to capture the attention of a boy who just started kindergarten. Jaguar in the 50s and 60s had developed a reputation for being fast, classy-cool, race-winning, achingly beautiful cars. Even in remote snowy Canada, we knew they were desirable, beyond most of what the Germans had to offer, and up there with the Italians – only they didn’t fall apart. Later on, after their 60s heyday, they did, unfortunately, start falling apart. And they got stodgy and slow. They still looked the business, but the electrics would give Nicola Tesla nightmares. And the mechanicals were not great either. But in the past couple of decades, the company has gotten its act together, starting in the 90s under Ford ownership (when it created the first, and very good generation of XF in 2007), and really taking off when it was bought by Tata motors – which financed expansion while wisely leaving Britain’s talented engineers and designers to get on with their jobs. Given this recent history and my own personal longer term one, I jumped at the chance to test drive the second generation Jaguar XF, the updated competitor for the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6 – brands that have dominated the premium car market for so long.

TEST 1

It makes you happy to walk towards it, knowing that there is a chance of people – especially women – seeing you climb into it.

TEST 1

Right... Back to earth. The exterior of this executive-targeted saloon embodies swooping, sporty but ‘classy’, elements that are expected of a classic Jag. You can thank designer and Scotsman Ian Callum for that – the man has been designing spectacular cars for more than 20 years now, including the Aston Martin’s DB7, DB9 and Vanquish as well as Jaguar’s XF, XJ and the supercar F-Type. Numerous aerodynamic improvements mean that little details like a slight upturn in the boot lid and the shapes of the panels have mated design and technology to produce a car that looks like it can and indeed does slice through the air. It makes you happy to walk towards it, knowing that there is a chance of people – especially women – seeing you climb into it. You couldn’t ask for a nicer suit of metal clothing.

The interior features premium design, sporty seats and a cockpit that envelope you in classic British style. There is an updated touchscreen catching up with modern standards, but they kept the interior look pretty simple. There are plenty of buttons, but they are in easy clustered reach, not spread out in a baffling array. There is plenty of legroom – and headroom – in the back, despite the coupe-like sloping roofline, so it is comfortable for even tall adults on long rides. The boot, at 540 litres, is sufficiently voluminous to accommodate all the luggage you might require for a long journey. One noteworthy feature: The gear knob rises and the air vents open when you fire up the car. It is like having bedroom curtains in your bachelor crib that open and close that open and close by remote control – it’s more cool than practical. In the cockpit, you sit low in the driver’s seat, which gives a relaxed but sporty feel – especially coupled with the heads up display [HUD]. Using the aforementioned silver knob after it rises from the centre stack, you select your driving mode to match conditions and mood – slippery surfaces, sport, comfort and off you go, letting the eight-speed transmission and various stability and traction systems work their magic – unless you want the additional sharpness of the manual paddle shifters – and even then, the ride is very quiet, with little wind, road or engine noise.

will let you dive into corners with an aplomb that belies the car’s size and heft.

SPEC SHEET 2016 Jaguar XF (Portfolio Trim) Engine 4-Cylinder 2.0 Litre Petrol Turbo

You can go from highway cruising in comfort mode to carving through twisty hill roads in dynamic mode (which, in the absence of such roads near Yangon, we replicated by tearing around a big empty parking lot), and it will eagerly provide the sideways g-forces, while leaving you feeling in control and confident.

Torque 51ft-lb/340 Nm @1,750-4,000rpm

It isn’t blazing fast in this trim, with a fairly mild 240 horsepower, taking 7 seconds to 100km/hr (there are far more powerful engines available), but it is certainly quick enough for most situations and overtaking with confidence. And it carries its speed well on the highway, not running out of steam even at higher speeds.

Transmission RWD 8-Speed Automatic

At one point, after a short period of inattention to the speedometer, we found ourselves

Horsepower 38bhp/177Kw @ 5500rpm

Weight 1590kg Boot 540lt 0-100km/hr 6.7 seconds Fuel Consumption 7.5lt/100km

There is a great steering feel – chunky and weighty and precise (more so in dynamic mode). You don’t feel detached from the road as in some cars in this class. And that sharp steering 26

travelling at an alarmingly illegal swift speed. The planted chassis and suspension setup made it feel natural to fly along at arrestable velocity, even where it was wavy or a bit bumpy. The XF sort of excites and calms you at the same time – or at least alternates between the two. The bottom line is that the XF was fun to drive. Maybe not quite as fun as my E-Type pedal car, but that says more about the jaded nature of adulthood than about the actual vehicle comparison. I don’t think I ever got my pedal powered E-Type over eight kilometers per hour. But that wasn’t the point. I was the proud owner of a Jag for a few months before it got destroyed by the attentions of every envious child on my block. Decades later, I finally got my hands on one again, this time for only a few hours, and it still felt like... Christmas.

TEST

fun & function Range Rover Evoque Review

DRIVE Editor Cameron Cooper takes the 2016 Range Rover Evoque for a spin through Yangon’s potholes and over the bounding waves of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, then seriously considers not returning the keys.

Photography by Gerhard Jörén

TEST 2

TEST 2 seats are leather and alongside the luxuriousness, the controls are nicely laid out and include a touchscreen, and several buttons you use to explore its many facets. The 2.0 litre turbo diesel, a small but relatively powerful engine at 190hp, with plenty of torque from low revs, has somehow eliminated the annoying ‘tickita-tickita’ sound that makes diesels – even ones from the most expensive marques – sound like public buses, and spoils the fun of the otherwise robust power delivery. The Evoque’s engine even has a pleasant exhaust note at higher revs, if you open the window a crack. Hitting 100km/hr in just under 7 seconds may not set the world on fire these days in terms of raw performance, but it does qualify to be called ‘swift’, if not ‘fast’ – and it is indeed faster than any Ferrari 308 from the 1980s. My, how expectations change.

Photography by Gerhard Jörén

“Driving on a road that isn’t crowded with horn-blowing madmen, the Evoque feels sprightly and enthusiastic, like it wants to be driven fast, and you can feel that the suspension and brakes can take most anything you throw at them.”

Rover unveiled its first off-roader – one of the first SUVs, and now retroactively known as the Defender – in 1948. Throughout its evolution, it was a solid, reliable four wheel drive that could take on terrain impassable by passenger sedans. About 30 years later came the Range Rover, a luxury off-roader almost as capable as its robust uncle, but plush on the inside and smoother and more stylish on the outside – often owned by wealthy British people with a second home in the countryside. Real farmers preferred the less high-tech and hard-as-nails Defender (discontinued as of this year after 2 million built and 68 years – though you can still find one at your local showroom) In the 90s, mothers the world over discovered that SUVs, with their spaciousness, commanding view and sense of safety were great for driving their children to school – and intimidating other people on the road. In fact, most were really ‘soft-roaders’, with little off-road capability. The genre evolved quickly, with almost every brand meeting the demand for SUV-style cars, and the “crossover” was born – a compromise between serious vehicles like the

Driving on a road that isn’t crowded with horn-blowing madmen, the Evoque feels sprightly and enthusiastic, like it wants to be driven fast, and you can feel that the suspension and brakes, unlike the SUVs of the past (and many of the present), can take most anything you throw at them. In a sedan, hitting a surprise patch of potholes while driving fast might cause a bit of a panic, but the Evoque will quickly adapt.

It is fairly heavy for its size, but it feels more like solidity than obesity. And despite great efforts in using aluminium and top grade plastics to keep the weight down, a fair bit of that weight comes from the parts that enable it to perform off-road feats that many of its owners will never discover. On top of being an excellent road car, the Evoque is a very good off-roader – not quite at the level of its larger siblings, but very respectable. Unlike the urban crossovers, it is a genuine offroad car. It can wade in a half a metre of water (in case you need to cross a raging stream), the touchscreen showing you the depth. It is capable of three-wheel (one in the air) manoeuvring – an essential capability over uneven rock formations. Power distribution ensures that even over slippery surfaces, at least one wheel will find grip to keep you moving forward. Aside from the all-wheel-drive [AWD] hardware, computerised ‘Terrain Response’ is at the heart of this capability. You select the type of terrain you are on and the system spontaneously alters the throttle response, power distribution and suspension settings to match. This means a soft and civilised ride in the city and lots of traction off road. It also handles hill descent, to keep you in control on steep mud and gravel inclines, plus stability control and roll stability. There’s also MagneRide suspension, that instantly changes the firmness of the shock absorbers as required.

What all this means is that the Evoque can take on several different personalities – sporty sedan, rugged off-roader or even a smooth touring car. It performs more than competently in all situations. It’s great to be seen in (it might even be a ‘chick magnet’ but we didn’t test for this). And most importantly, it’s great fun to drive – wherever you might find yourself.

“There is plenty of space in the back for two adults (and one grumpy child), and enough storage for everyone’s weekend bags.”

Range Rover, and the unibody sedan platforms many modern SUVs are actually based on. Then along came the Range Rover Evoque, which debuted in 2011. It has been called a crossover, but in fact, is more like a baby Range Rover. And it is a hoot to drive. SUVs are always going to put function ahead of style, but the boys at Range Rover have made this a pretty sexy little beast, with cool LED running lamps and tail lights. It looks brutish and bulldog-like, tough, but not mean, given a rakish look by its a high and rising belt line and low roof. In black, it looks like a well-sculpted Saturday night hairstyle. I can’t work out how they managed it, but the interior is much bigger than you think it will be. The low roofline hints at a ceiling that a six-footer would bang his head on with every bump, and with the short wheelbase, you assume that either cargo space or back seat legroom will be compromised. But there is plenty of space in the back for two adults (and one grumpy child), and enough storage for everyone’s weekend bags. The driver’s seat, in fine British tradition, is cosseting, cosy and fits like a glove – not tight, just nicely snug – and with plenty of headroom. The

Photography by Gerhard Jörén 31

TEST 2

SPEC SHEET 2016 Range Rover Evoque Engine 2.0 Litre Diesel Horsepower 190hp/140Kw Torque 300 ft-lbs/420 Nm Transmission 9-Speed Automatic Weight 1685kg Boot 575lt 0-100km/hr 6.8 seconds

Photography by Gerhard Jörén

Fuel Consumption 6lt/100km

FEATURE 1

FEATURE

Luxury Muscle The Bentley Flying Spur

High-end British cars have a certain feel to them that is very different from their German and Japanese counterparts. Jaguar, Rolls, Bentley and Aston Martin all share a few common characteristics.

Bentley, once the sporty sister brand to Rolls Royce, is now owned by Volkswagen (alongside Lamborghini, Audi and even Ducati motorcycles), but continues its century-old tradition of blending supreme luxury and supercar power and speed through well-honed British engineering and craftsmanship in such superlative vehicles as the Bentley Flying Spur. Photography by Khine Maung Lay

For one thing, they are substantial and heavy – in a pleasant and reassuring way. (the super lightweight Lotus brand being the exception.) The engineers embrace the weight. The resulting cars feel safe and inspire confidence that they are stuck firmly to the road. And while most car makers struggle to address the power-to-weight ratio by shaving millimetres off the door mirrors and body panels to save fuel and enhance performance, the British solve the weight problem in other ways – by adding power and being clever with the suspension to keep it from rolling around like a container ship in a storm. And fuel economy? They leave that to Toyota. For another, British cars enclose you. While this is plainly obvious in the outright sporty Jaguar F-Type and any of the Aston Martin range that you must shoehorn yourself into, (though feeling comfortably ensconced once inside), it is also a feature of the country’s bigger vehicles like Rolls and Bentley. You and the car are one, relating to the outside world as a single entity.

In short, Bentleys make you feel big, strong and confident. You laugh as you gaze upon the lesser vehicles sharing a road that is, of course, rightfully yours. Bentley, which produced its first car prototype in 1919 – after making engines for the famous Sopwith Camel WWI biplane – has been renowned from the beginning for its speed and durability, winning or placing high in races early on at LeMans and the Indianapolis 500 (back when few car brands could dream of even finishing that 800km race). Later, when it was the sister company to Rolls Royce under the same owner, the Bentley was the choice of the younger set of the extremely wealthy, as the more sporty and rakish version of the conservative Rolls Royce – the latter tending to sacrifice performance in favour of extreme luxury. Even though the companies both went pretty much bankrupt during the dark days of the British automotive industry in the 70s and 80s, and ended up with separate owners – BMW acquiring the rights to Rolls Royce and Volkswagen acquiring Bentley, both brands have continued down their traditional paths. 35

The company is still registered in Crewe, a small city in the UK’s north. Though the bodies are made in Germany, almost all of the design, assembly and superb coachwork is handled here, where they hand build only four models: The rakish Continental GT, the beefier Flying Spur, the massive Mulsanne and the Bentayga – the marque’s SUV offering (everyone has to have one now). The Flying Spur is the “smaller one” of the fourdoor sedans, though the back seat is more than big enough for it to be a chauffeur car, which makes it a fair bit more sporty than big chunky sister Mulsanne. The appearance is classic – harder to put a date on than most late-model cars. These are built to last, and nobody wants their insanely expensive car to look dated after four years. The tail lights are a bit more conservative than is perhaps necessary, especially in an era when this is one of the few details modern car makers can go to town on, but the view from the front is timeless Bentley.

FEATURE 1

“On the slalom test course, it performs better than any car of its size and weight has any business doing – a Bentley hallmark.”

And this thing goes. Its W12 (12-cylinder) 625hp engine hauls it from 0-100km/hr in a supercar range 4.6 seconds, smoothly hurtling it to a top speed of 320km/hr through its all-wheel-drive system. This is as fast as almost anything Ferrari or Lamborghini offers, and an incredible technical achievement in a vehicle so large and heavy. Even though you will never be able to attain it on any of Myanmar’s roads without going to prison or the hospital, it’s nice to know you can. Any car that can travel that fast has to be very sure-footed. On the slalom test course, it per-

forms better than any car of its size and weight has any business doing – and this is a Bentley hallmark. A Rolls floats. A Bentley is taut, but supple. And on the inside, it’s gorgeous; leather everywhere (even the headliner), more wood than a Victorian dining table – both chosen from a baffling array of colours and textures. A Naim sound system. There’s even a champagne fridge – in the back seat of course. Drivers who quaff Veuve Cliquot while piloting vehicles tend to plough them into the corners of buildings. There is the understated Breitling clock centred on the dashboard. The countless buttons are, sadly

plastic instead of some priceless metal, but maybe I’m too old fashioned. To me, even quality plastic still feels cheap. The Chinese love it in any case, and have been snapping it up to idle smugly in Shanghai and Beijing traffic. China are Bentley’s best customers – a fact which would probably have some of the old colonialist opium profiteers who used to be the brand’s main target market turning over in their graves at Westminster Abbey. But hey, even the most classic brands have to move with the times.

Launching in July 2016

Now you can book your cinema tickets online!

FEATURE

T H E P R I C E

O F

P E R F O R M A N C E

THE FERRARI 250 GTO. Yes, it’s beautiful. But there’s more... much more.

FEATURE 2

they instantly gain value. In the case of the 250GTO the value has multiplied 2,000 times – something that can be said of few investments. But that has got to be an agonizing exercise in temptation and frustration to actually own one. Its seductive siren call would ring in your ears in the middle of the night: “Drive me, baby... Go on, you know you want to.” And if you do take it out for a drive – and most owners of the few remaining models do on occasion – you have to live in terror of an accident, or a scratch from a stray pebble. Or, heaven forbid, a breakdown. And with that, the potential loss of a few million dollars in value. For all its wonders, the Ferrari 250 GTO could be the most expensive mistress any man ever had.

Ferrari. Of all the great motoring legends, this marque is in a class of its own. Every red-blooded male on the planet (and quite a few females) wants to at least drive one before he dies. The vast majority never will. Even fewer will ever own one. And only those who breathe the most rarefied financial air will own the 1962 250 GTO, the most expensive used car in the world at $38.1 million – the sale price at auction in 2014. And though that is an insane amount of money to pay for anything, especially something that can rust away if not treated like the Mona Lisa, there are reasons it is at the top of the heap. Company founder Enzo Ferrari was an obsessed, driven, competitive, stylish, jealous, arrogant and passionate Italian man. (Actually, most Italian men are kind of like that.) He and his teams of the best engineers and designers he could find crafted some of the most exciting sports cars ever made – and nearly 30 years after Ferrari’s death, they still do. The 288 GTO, Testarossa, F40, the Enzo, La Ferrari, the 358. And then there are the Formula 1 and other

race cars that have taken the chequered flag countless times over the decades. But the 250 GTO is special. With its ultra-smooth 300hp 3.0 litre 12-cylinder engine, light weight, perfect balance, an exhaust note as musical and playful as a Rossini overture, staggering beauty, excellent aerodynamics and race pedigree, it embodies everything that the Ferrari brand ever aspired to be in one package. And according to the people who have driven them, they are as sweet to drive as anything made today – better many say, because the machine is totally raw. No electronics, no ABS brakes, no traction control. In skilled hands, it doesn’t need them. The brand’s history is steeped in racing tradition. (Unlike Lamboghini, which has its roots in farm machinery) Enzo Ferrari only started selling road cars to finance his racing ambitions. Indeed, when Ferrari built the 250 GTO, it was only for homolgation – a rule in certain racing classes that requires the race car to be based on an actual road legal car that has produced at least 100 units.

Ferrari, tight for cash in 1962, cheated the regulations by giving the 250 GTO road cars chassis numbers that were out of sequence, with missing numbers that created the false impression that there were more of them than the 39 he eventually built. When inspectors came to confirm the count, Enzo moved the same cars around to various locations so the same ones would get counted more than once. If it resembles the 1961 Jaguar E-Type in exterior design, it isn’t just the era... its design was finalised shortly after the E-type’s release (and it was a racing competitor, as it happened), and Enzo Ferrari, not normally known for being complimentary to other car makers, called the Jag “the most beautiful car ever made”. So it is likely, being a competitive guy, that he set out to make a prettier one, and may even have succeeded. When new, the GTO cost $18,000 in the United States, and buyers had to be personally approved by Enzo. This practice perseveres with the top special edition cars they make – invitation only to purchase in some cases – because

FEATURE 2

TECH SPECS Ferrari 250 GTO 1962 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1964 Engine 3.0 litre V12 Transmission 5-Speed Manual Horsepower 300 @ 7500 RPM Torque 246 ft-lbs @ 5500 Weight 950 kg 0-60 time 5.4 sec. Top Speed 174 mph

STREETS

the woman behind the wheel Yoon Yoon

This month, we hopped into the cab of female taxi driver San San Myint to talk about transporting people around Yangon’s mean streets.

DRIVE: What kind of money can a taxi driver make? What does it cost to rent/ own a taxi? Are there enough customers to keep you busy? San San Myint: Two or three years ago, I normally earned at least 30,000 Ks per day and traffic was not that bad. Now, we have really terrible traffic and more taxis than we used to have. So, the income has reduced to half. My daily income right now is at most 15,000 Ks. Or may be 20,000 Ks if I get very lucky. And I am driving my own taxi so I don’t have to pay the owner, but others who rent them, it is not easy for them. The money to pay to the owner is around 300,000 or 400,000 Ks plus 10,000 Ks everyday. There are many taxi drivers who are struggling just to earn enough money for the owner fees. I have been working as a female taxi driver for like four years. I made myself a name card saying ‘Volunteer Traffic Reporter/Taxi Driver’, since I’m active in volunteering for the traffic report program in Mandalay FM (one of the well-known local radio stations). I give my card to every client who takes my taxi in case they might want to contact me directly next time. I always ask for the fair price. I gather more clients by giving out my name cards and introducing myself. I think most of the taxi drivers don’t have a name card. DRIVE: What are the best times of day and days of the week to get customers? SSM: On weekdays, compared to the noon and afternoons, I have far more clients during the rush hours; around 8 am in the morning and around 5 to 7 pm in the evening. There is no significant flow of clients on weekends. I usually just park my taxi at Taw Win Center taxi stand. DRIVE: What is your favourite/best car model for a taxi? SSM: For a taxi, I like the Toyota Probox 2007 model. DRIVE: If you could have any car for your own use (not as a taxi) what would it be? (Mercedes? BMW? Ferrari?) SSM: If i would have a chance to buy a car for luxury purpose, I would buy a Ferrari. DRIVE: Tell us about some of your regular customers. How does that work? SSM: I have two regular clients who are foreigners, called Mr. Sam and Mr. Peter. Mr. Sam is a businessman and Mr. Peter is an instructor who works for Mandalay FM radio station. In the morning, i drive Mr. Sam to his office at 8:30am and Mr. Peter at 9:00am. Clients who took my taxi before often call up and

hire me. If I happen to be near their place of call, I’ll pick them up. Normally, it is more convenient if the client calls me in advance the day before if the client knows where they want to go. There are also some clients who hire me for hours at a time or for the whole day. In those cases, I negotiate the fees. DRIVE: What do customers do that annoys you the most? SSM: I have had some annoying clients, and being one of the very few female taxi drivers, some drunk clients tried to provoke me. However, I have never experienced anything that causes me more than a minor annoyance. As I am a female, I only take clients to downtown areas after 6pm. Normally, I call it a day after 6pm. DRIVE: Do you like your job? Why? SSM: Before I started being a taxi driver, I made some studies to find out if there were any female drivers. When I found out that there were some, I began the job. Being a single mother with two kids, I have to struggle alone for a living. Being a taxi driver means I always have some money in my hand. I have worked as an employee in many companies, but it only paid once a month. So, in 20 days after the payday, I usually wasn’t in good shape financially. For that reason, I really like being a taxi driver who gets paid everyday. DRIVE: Could you please tell us about any other experiences – anything funny? SSM: It is not actually a joke but there is one difficulty for us, the taxi drivers. It is the problem with the location of taxi stands. One time, the taxi drivers who park at Market Place taxi stand were not very happy with me parking there and they didn’t give me my turn. In truth, they have to go one after another and take turns. I even had a fight with them. Later, I always parked at Taw Win Center. DRIVE: With the new taxi services that connect clients and drivers via internet, there are many taxi drivers joining to those services and working for them. Do you have any plans to work with them? SSM: Yes, I was offered the job by one of those services. They said that I would have to be online all the time and they would connect me to the clients who sought drivers through their service. The payment would be based on the minutes the clients spent in the taxi and they would take 20% of the total payment as their service fee. I even thought about joining them but every friends who tried it told me not to. I didn’t join them in the end. Now i am trying on my own with my daily income to make a living.

Photography by Khine Mg Lay

TRAVEL

Opposite: Jack Picone and 1998 Nissan Cedric Brougham VIP This page from top: Photographer and filmmaker Gerhard Joren (back to camera) and Yani Clarke (right) load the 1998 Nissan Cedric Brougham VIP for the journey from Yangon to Mandalay. Central Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) Kids race their scooters in central Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) Left: Burmese Monks post worshipping at Shwedagon Pagoda Dagon, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma) Right: Morning peak hour commuters on the outskirts of Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)

On the Road to

MANDALAY Mandalay. Even the word is enigmatic. Melodic and sweet sounding as it rolls off the tongue igniting the imagination and inviting wonder. I cast my memory back trawling to find answers to the questions ‘Mandalay’ asks me. My earliest associations with the word began in my formative years as a boy in junior high school in Australia. My English teacher introduced the class to the English poet Rudyard Kipling. In 1890, Kipling had penned a poem titled ‘Mandalay’. I recall at the time not fully understanding the poem fully. Regardless, as a teenage boy I was stirred by the lines I read, including ‘There’s a Burma girl a-settin’, and I know she thinks o’ me’, and the dramatic description, ‘An’ the dawn comes up like thunder outer China ‘crost

the Bay”! ‘Mandalay’ (The poem) is largely the reflections of a British soldier (back in England) but still longing for the exoticism of Asia, he experienced while in Burma. Burma contrasted favorably to the dank, cold, and foggy climates and to the banality and social disciplines of the UK. Four of the six stanzas in Kipling’s poem end with the line, ‘On the road to Mandalay’. Fast forward to 2015 and given the lasting impression Kipling’s poem left on me a road trip from Rangoon to Mandalay was imminent. Road trips are exciting. Breaking away and escaping the grinding banalities of everyday life. A putting your foot down on the accelerator and propelling into new territories. The choice of 46

Jack Picone

car chosen to escape in is as important as who you decide to drive off into the distance with. The selected car was a jet black 1998 Nissan Cedric Brougham VIP. More of a statement than a car. A long black ominous looking limousine it cuts an imposing figure on the streets of Yangon which is populated mostly with compact contemporary Japanese cars. Metaphorically, it tends to ask more questions than it answers. It cannot be just anyone you choose to make a road trip with. Saying that it was a fait accompli who my traveling companions would be. I would be taking to the road with a friend and fellow photographer Gerhard Joren and my photography assistant Yani Clarke. 47

TRAVEL

Opposite: Our driver in a jubilant mood. About one hour outside Rangoon on the Yangon-Mandalay expressway en route to Mandalay This page from top: Yani Clarke embracing the freedom of being on the open road and leaving all her cares behind Middle & Bottom Left: 115 miles into the journey a stop for lunch at the incongruously named Pioneer Food Centre on the Yangon-Mandalay expressway en route to Mandalay Right: Ox and carts cross the Yangon-Mandalay expressway while en route to Mandalay

The soft directional dawn light bathes everything in a pale shade of yellow; our driver hurried us into the Brougham so we could exit Yangon before the streets turned into the world’s biggest parking lot. Rangoon receded behind us as we passed the mornings commuters sounding their horns in frustration and crawling bumper to bumper into Rangoon to work for the day. The open road unfolded in front of us. Windows wound down and the wind in our hair the impossible felt possible, the notion of freedom filled the spacious cabin of the Brougham the atmosphere was electric. Heading northwest Gerhard estimated it was approximately 390 miles to Mandalay and Yani now sporting a pair of retro Blues Brothers Raybands states the driving time was about 7 to 8 hours, but we all agreed to - it takes - as long as it takes. Our group mantra becomes ‘slow is fast’. We all want to soak up the sense of space and stop for anything or anyone that engages us along the road. I consider Kipling’s poem ‘Mandalay’ and know that things have changed exponentially

since he penned it. It is probably the romantic in me, but I secretly hoped that we would still see some visual traces of what Kipling saw in the late 19th century. Even, perhaps find a few traces of the poet himself. Cruising along the concrete covered Yangon-Mandalay Expressway appears to be a brand new state of the art travel experience. Our driver with a knowing smile suggests that it is not. The expressway built to connect Yangon with the nation’s new capital Naypyidaw, and its second largest city Mandalay did not meet international design and construction standards. He adds that there has been a spate of fatalities on it since it opened in 2010. Consequently, the locals have dubbed it the “Death Highway”. Oh, how reassuring. The landscape neatly framed by the car windows and windscreen appears, unremarkable, flat, baked by the humidity and heat is unforgiving. Supersized green traffic signs with large white arrows point to Naypyidaw and Mandalay. The monotony

and regularity of these signs are occasionally punctuated by a sign that broadcasts, ‘Life is a journey’ then below this line in letters capitalized, and twice the size is ordered ‘COMPLETE IT’! Perhaps confirming why the locals call it the “Death Highway.” Babs Hoffman the American writers carefree words, “Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey” dissolve the drivers disparaging description of the road we are traveling along. I decide the journey is about who you share it with, that you meet on the way and the experiences you have. 115 miles into the journey, we make a stop at the incongruously named Pioneer Food Centre at Ah Myan Lan. I was expecting something else, something more traditional. It was a ubiquitous, formulaic roadside complex that could be found almost anywhere in the world. Constructed of glass and iron, clean and bright, on offer was a mix of basic European dishes and traditional

TRAVEL

Opposite: A local rural well along the Yangon-Mandalay expressway en route to Mandalay This page from top: A stop at a small rural settlement along the Yangon-Mandalay expressway and a chance to interact with local people. Yani Clarke in middle picture Left: Workers frantically shovel sand into waiting sampans and lorries on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River,Mandalay

Burmese fare. Given its simplicity, the soup was memorable perhaps the most memorable meal I had the whole time I was in Burma. Odd, to find such great soup in the most ordinary of places. It was one of those meals when an intersection of travel, time and sheer great taste elevated the experience from ordinary to extraordinary. An everyday soup in Burma but the mix of noodles, garlic, tofu, tomatoes, mustard leaves and mint was exotic - to me - and culminated in a culinary climax. I would have given the uninspiring Pioneer Rest Stop at least One Michelin Star just because of the soup! Back on the road and up ahead a vignette comes into view that could have easily walked off the pages of Kipling’s 19th Century prose and poetry. Farmers wearing their longyis sitting atop of their payload steer a convoy of oxen carts across the highway. Languidly they join a dirt track on the other side trailed by a cloud of dust disappearing into the distance as ethereally as they appeared. In sharp contrast to the time capsule ox carts is the frequency and diversity of

Burma’s new petrol stations. Every station representing a different international oil company and different brand. Unlike the west, were a few major oil companies dominate the landscape. In some way, I thought that they probably reflected Burma’s new period of openness to foreign investment. Not confined to big international gas stations there were also smaller local entrepreneurs who had set up their businesses anything from traditional pump stands to roadside stalls, selling petrol in plastic bottles. Even at the plastic bottle level it is a barometer that Burma is changing. Not long ago the oil business was strictly regulated now regulation has loosened thus liberating its people to engage in private enterprise.

Right: People bathing along the banks of the Ayeyarwady River,Mandalay

magical. In Mandalay, down at the riverside, a massive red and purple sun sinks slowly into the horizon signaling the end of the day. Walking along the banks weaving between scores of workers as they frantically shovel sand into waiting lorries and sampans, I side - step people boarding and disembarking a hive of commuter boats coming and going on the majestic Ayeyarwady River. In amongst the noise and chaos, there is a beautiful ‘Burma girl a-settin’. She is perched on a stone wall gazing out to the river. I wondered how she would find her way in the brave new Burma that is now more a memory trace of the Burma Kipling experienced in the late 19th century when he wrote, ‘Mandalay.’

The outskirts of Mandalay, come into sight, the landscape is greener than along the way. The small hills dotted with inverted symmetrical cones of pagodas and unlike Rangoon, they are white, rather than gold. White is the predominant color of the Mandalay temples, and the contrast with the green hillsides is stunning and

TRAVEL

Launching in July 2016

A father with a cheroot in his mouth holds his son aloft at the end of another day. On the Ayeyarwady River, Mandalay

Jack Picone is the recipient of several of photography’s most prestigious international awards. These include the World Press Awards, the U.S. Photographer of The Year Awards (POY) and the Mother Jones/IFDP Grant for Social Documentary Photography. His work has been exhibited and is held in major galleries and venues worldwide, including the prestigious Visa d’Or Reportage Festival in France, Australian War Memorial, State Library of N.S.W and National Portrait Gallery in Australia. For the past 30 years Picone has covered wars and major social issues in Asia, Africa and Europe. He is a co-founder of Australia’s REPORTAGE photography festival, the founder of Reportage http://reportage. xyz (a series of documentary photography workshops in Asia) and a member of the collective SOUTH. He completed a Masters degree in Visual Arts and a PhD 52

in Documentary Photography at Griffith University in Queensland Australia, and is a Visiting Professor in photography at universities in Australia, Thailand and Hong Kong. Picone’s training in photography was in using black and white film and mastering traditional darkroom print-making. It is a passion that has never faded thanks to the medium’s unrivalled capacity for both subtlety and drama. As legendary photographer Robert Frank expressed it in 1951: “Black and white are the colours of photography. To me they symbolise the alternatives of hope and despair to which mankind is forever subjected.” Born in Australia, Picone is currently based in Bangkok and works globally.

Photography by Gerhard Jörén

Email info@mfc.com.mm Phone 09 257 999 601 / 602 / 603

Address MYANMAR FINANCIAL CENTER (MFC) Shwe Asia Tower, 2nd Floor (Corner of Mahabandoola Rd. and 48th St.) Botahtaung Township, Yangon, Myanmar

PEOPLE In pouring rain or blazing sun, the traffic police must carry out their duties regardless. Although heavy traffic is normal in Yangon these days, there are people like Lieutenant Colonel U Ko Ko Naing who are doing their best to solve the problems. He tells DRIVE magazine’s reporter about life as a traffic policeman, reckless drivers he had arrested and charged and his opinion on how to deal with the congestion.

Lieutenant Colonel

KO KO NAING

DRIVE: What is your rank and main duties? Lt.Col. KKN: I am the commander of No. 49 District Patrol (Lan Ma Daw). My duty consists of two main parts. The first is that I am responsible for my team to carry out their duties exactly and with the full authority according to their rank. The second part is for road user safety. Firstly, I have to make sure my staff are given clear directions and that they follow the orders and rules to the letter. I also need to lead them to carry out these orders according to the rules and regulations. I am also responsible for my staff’s health and social affairs, as well as salaries and opportunities. Second, I have to enforce the motor vehicle and road rules for the road users’ safety to reduce accidents and traffic congestion. To successfully establish those, I have to negotiate and work with the government department in my district.

Commander of Lanmadaw District Patrol Yoon Yoon

Photography by Khine Maung Lay 54

PEOPLE — LT. COL. KO KO NAING —

“the driver... was under the influence of alcohol and without a license. He said he didn’t fear anyone in our team, and we could do what we want to him because he was courageous.”

and traffic police from the other townships to clear up clogged roads. Street vendors setting up on the pavement also need to sell their goods only at the market provided for them by the YCDC and there must be serious action taken on those who walk onto the roads. We are creating talk shows and seminars for drivers and pedestrians to teach the motor and vehicle rules. We also must prohibit parking on no-parking roads and require that new buildings include enough parking spaces. The lampposts and generators blocking the roads should be moved to make use of the whole road. Some trees should be cut down. Unnecessary bus stops should be removed and the numbers of buses should be reduced. More official taxi stands must be provided for the taxis to park systematically. These things I’ve mentioned will go a long way to reducing the congestion. DRIVE: What are the plans to educate the road users to follow the law? Lt.Col. KKN: We give lectures about the rules and regulations – to drivers and pedestrians, who are employees and students. For those who break the rules, we educate them not to do the same thing again.

DRIVE: What are the causes of traffic congestion? Lt.Col. KKN: Almost 80% of the imported cars from the neighbouring countries have accumulated in our country recently. Also, Yangon is the commercial capital, with a higher population than the other cities. The problems of not having enough parking spaces, not being able to use the full width of the road, and it being impossible to widen the road system in line with our needs. Some of the markets, schools, apartments, hotels, companies and hospitals which have been already built have inadequate parking. The roads are blocked as a result of reckless road-users, such as car drivers and people on foot not following the rules and the street vendors irresponsibly using the pavements and roads to sell their goods. The bus-stops are very near to the traffic lights and very close together, with some where they are not needed and vice versa, as well as too many bus lines. There is a shortage of traffic police [in line with the growth in traffic] and township departments are not coordinated to work together. DRIVE: How will the traffic problems be solved? Lt.Col. KKN: To increase the number of traffic police officers, we are making plans and recruiting new officers. To deal with the insufficient numbers of traffic police, we are working with township police forces and the members of YCDC police to contain and tow away cars and educate out-of-control drivers. In my township, we patrol the tight traffic areas and deal with the forces provided from Naypyidaw. We are also working with the government departments

DRIVE: What are common infractions taxi drivers make? Lt.Col. KKN: They drive in the bus lane, let passengers board or alight at traffic lights and in the middle of the lane, drive with B-License, park on no-parking roads, exceed the passenger limit – sometimes even letting the passenger ride in the boot space – and driving over the speed limit. DRIVE: What are some problems with buses? Lt.Col. KKN: Letting passengers board or alight without stopping at the bus stop, driving in reverse, driving with competitive a attitude, without a proper uniform and license, being drunk and leaving the doors open. DRIVE: Which important changes are needed for the car drivers in Yangon? Lt.Col. KKN: Respecting motor vehicle laws. The drivers need to know their respective rules and regulations. Driving in reverse, with competitive manners and under the influence, blocking the road and not having a proper license are the main things to need to be fixed. DRIVE: Please describe some typical Yangon driving manners. Lt.Col. KKN: Good manners: They stop their cars properly when authorities pull them over. When asked for wheel tax/license, they hand it over respectfully. Also, they confess their crime and accept that what they have done is wrong. The drivers wear seatbelts. No drinking – not even betel chewing. One example of a stop: On June 11, 2016 at 7pm, my team and I checked out on a privately-owned white Toyota Crown (7L-3696) following an 56

anonymous tip of double parking on the corner of Mahabandoola road and 13th street; the driver ,U Hlaing Min Shane, confessed that he parked temporarily, showed his license and asked us to forgive him. The complainant accepted the apology, we took no further action, gave him a warning and took his signature for a guarantee of future good behaviour.

Welcome to DRIVE’s BRAND GUIDE. In every issue we look at the entire locally available model line of a given brand and give you a quick run-down of what each car does and how well it does it.

Some bad manners: They don’t stop their cars and make a run for it when authorities try to pull them over. When asking for license/wheel tax, they say they won’t give it and they don’t care what we do to them. Some curse. They don’t confess to their crimes. For example: On June 11, 2016 at 8:15am, one of my team, Lance Corporal Yan Naing Soe was carrying out his duties on the corner of Mahabandoola Road and Bhone Gyee Road in Lanmadaw. Meanwhile a Nissan PE (5B 6191) was driving along Bhone Gyee Road in reverse, so he waved over the car. However, they not only didn’t stop the car, but also used rude language and drove through a red light. My team and I chased down and captured the driver Win Zaw Htoo and charged him according to motor and vehicles law, but following apologies from the driver and passenger, our team forgave them for the use of rude language and interfering with police duties and didn’t charge them. DRIVE: Finally, please share one of your funny or awkward experiences. Lt.Col. KKN: One of my funny experiences while on duty happened on Aug 20, 2015 at 9:30am. While my team are were on duty, a green minibus 3F-9607 (Public transport) was driving along Bo Gyoke road from west to east and when it drove past the corner of Bo Gyoke and Aung Yadanar Road, it switched to the opposite lane and drove in reverse. So we captured and inspected the car and found out that the driver, Thet Lwin, was driving under the influence of alcohol and without a license. He said he didn’t fear anyone in our team, and we could do what we want to him because he was courageous. So we took him to court for his crimes. Township Judge, Daw Yee Yee Myint, presided over the case and sentenced the defendant, to one month for reckless driving in reverse according to the 1964, Motor and Vehicle Law, Paragraph 21, 1 month for driving under the influence, a 500ks fine for driving without a license and if he couldn’t pay the fine, he was to serve an additional month in prison. It was then this so-called courageous driver cried and apologized in front of the judge. My team and I looked on with humorous embarrassment.

Brand

Guide: 15

Jaguar

BRAND GUIDE

In the past decade, Jaguar has undergone a huge transformation and continues to move from strength to strength in producing luxury sport cars that look great and drive exceedingly well, are solid and reliable, and present a bold challenge to the traditional go-to brands. Jaguars take a different approach than their mainly German rivals across the competing segment, creating a very British cosseting internal space without feeling claustrophobic. Even in their base

BRAND GUIDE

model luxury cars there is always an emphasis on sport and an enjoyable driving experience. Indeed, the cars all mask their speed well, and you have to keep an eye on the instrument panel to stay on the right side of the law. Extensive use of aluminium and magnesium keeps them light for their size, agile and stiff. Compared with its giant competitors, the leaner and meaner Jaguar is keeping it simple, with only five models - and their variants - in the range.

All of them were penned by legendary design chief Ian Callum, who also conceived several cars in the Aston Martin range and numerous other noteworthy vehicles. According to Callum, “Jaguars should be perceived as cool cars... And cool cars attract interesting, edgy people.”

The largest in the range, this is a sedan you can drive or be driven in – especially in the longer wheelbase model. All the luxury amenities you could hope for are here, and when you switch to dynamic mode, this beautiful hefty beast shrinks around you and becomes as agile as most smaller cars.

Starts at 252,625,000 MMK

F-Pace

The first new mid-sized executive four-door saloon car from Jaguar in its modern era, the XE is giving its long-established German rivals more than a run for their money in power, handling, economy and luxury right off the starting line. And despite its smaller size, it is every inch a Jaguar.

Jaguar calls this a “performance crossover for people who love driving.” With Jag’s sweet AWD 8-speed transmission, it is available in very powerful versions that can do 0-100 in just over 5 seconds in top trim. Once again, Jaguar shows that they can take on long-established competitors (like Porsche) at their own game, straight off the starting blocks.

Starts at 213,516,300 MMK

Starts at 124,560,575 MMK

F-Type

Bigger than the XE, and laden with plenty of tech, luxury leather interior, top sound system, very comfortable rear seats, this car is still a top performer (see review this issue), changing personalities at the whim of its driver, between luxury highway cruiser and surprisingly sporty sedan.

Starts at 164,500,000 MMK

Starts at 276,125,000 MMK

EDUCATION

Preparing Your Car to Survive the Monsoon As you read this, (hopefully not while driving), there is a good chance it is raining outside. When driving, rain changes everything. Yes, traffic is bad enough in the dry, but it is worse when the rains come – and so are many things about your car – handling, visibility and braking are all affected by wet and slippery roads... and some of your car’s systems don’t function as well either, especially if it has a few kilometres and years on the clock. Here are some tips to stay safe and happy during the monsoon.

EDUCATION

Clean Screen = Happy Driver Car owners often leave the same windscreen wiper blades on for years. A new and inexpensive set will wipe much more effectively (you’ll be amazed at the improvement) so you can better see the craziness on the roads around you. Keep a big bottle of washer fluid (the real stuff, not water) in the boot, and make sure you’ve always got plenty in the reservoir (hint: it is usually under the bonnet near the back) to help scrape off the mud that sprays onto your windscreen. Oh yes, and keep a rag in the car to regularly wipe down your side mirrors.

2 3

Stay Charged

Cars can be harder to start when wet, and car batteries take a beating from water spray, with corroding terminals and faster internal breakdown, so now might be a good time to change your battery. It is no fun hearing that dying starter motor sound when you have to get to work and it is pouring rain outside.

Light The Way Make sure your headlights and taillights are working properly – and don’t forget the brake lights, since the guy behind you (who has never changed his wiper blades) needs to know when you are slowing down, so he doesn’t run into you. Check the lenses to ensure they are clean throughout the rainy season, as wet dirt has a way of creeping in there. On older cars, Inspect wires or have your mechanic do it, and seal up any loose ones.

Stay Dry Keep an umbrella and a raincoat in your boot at all times during the monsoon season. Not only are they essential in a breakdown situation, they are handy for when you simply park and want to run into the shop without getting soaked.

Tread Carefully

Tyres are the only connection between you and the ground, and yet car owners often neglect them for far too long. First, make sure there is adequate tread left on them to cut through the water on the road. Second, even if there is plenty of tread left, if they are a few years old, they have probably lost their grip. Tyre rubber degrade over time, even when you don’t drive your car, so you may find you hit the brakes hard in an emergency, and just 60

slide into the car in front of you. And in court, it will be your fault. Tyres aren’t cheap, but they are key to maintaining grip for quick turning and short stopping distance. And whatever tyres you insist on having, new or old, at least make sure you maintain them at the recommended pressure – this makes a huge difference to their performance.

Change Your Style

When the roads are wet, stopping distances are much longer, and even performance cars can’t change direction as quickly. And yet, you get many people who drive faster to get home and out of the rain sooner. Calm is key. Take your time and allow more space (when traffic permits) to stop and turn. The impatient guy behind you might blow his horn at you, but just ignore him – as usual.

Be especially careful for the first ten minutes or so of rain, particularly if it hasn’t rained in a few days. The accumulated goo on the roads – oil, dirt and debris float to the surface and make road slippery as ice until there is enough rainfall to rinse it away into the gutters.

MAINTENANCE

The Fixer

No car company that can guarantee your car will run perfectly trouble-free until a set time or mileage. It is normal for machines to need periodic repairs. In this issue, we interview Ko Zayar Maung, an ardent car guy, who is also the boss at Right D Car Mechanics, about his business, common car problems, and how to keep your vehicle in top running order.

The Fi er Yoon Yoon

No car company can guarantee your car will run perfectly trouble-free until a set time or mileage. It is normal for machines to need periodic repairs. In this issue, we interview

KO ZAYAR MAUNG,

Photography by Khine Maung Lay

an ardent car guy, who is also the boss at Right D Car Mechanics, about his business, common car problems, and how to keep your vehicle in top running order. 63

DRIVE: How did you get started as a mechanic? Ko Zayar: I started this business in May, 2013. When I participated in MMSA (Myanmar Motor Sport association), I saw that it wasn’t easy to get sport cars fixed when they broke down. I was interested in fixing cars and finishing a diploma at a mechanic school, so I thought this would make a good business. We started off as an online call service with the name Right D on May, 2013 in order to fix sports car emergency problems with fair price. Then in January 2015, the business was expanded as Right D Myanmar by forming a partnership with friends. For now, its in three locations, each having a body servicing division, a workshop and a garage. Our main focuses are on performance, maintenance, modifications and decorative work. DRIVE: You won an award at MMSA’s event. Can you tell us about the event? Ko Zayar: We placed second the whole of Myanmar for ‘race event 2’ organized by MMSA. During the event, what was hardest was that there were no one to help when my car broke down and I couldn’t do as much back then like I can now. Not having the right spare parts during that time was a huge problem. DRIVE: Have you had additional formal training? Ko Zayar: After expanding the business in 2015, another mechanic friend of mine had some contacts in China and through that, I attended workshop training there. Then, I took a one-week training course about engine oils in Singapore at an engine oil company, sponsored by Liquid Gold. And now I’m attending automobile specialist training at Victoria University. DRIVE: Aside from routine maintenance, what are some of the most unusual mechanical problems? Ko Zayar: I deal with sport cars exclusively so I’ll explain from the sport types’ point of view. Things like engine oil dried up unusually, broken turbochargers, engine errors and

MAINTENANCE

s p i 5t

— THE FIXER —

sensor failures in the ECU can happen apart from routine maintenance. Sometimes, shock absorbers and break as well. For example, when I did my test drive on my car, once it reached the speed of 236km/hr, it started to heat up, high pressure was causing the engine oil to burst out, and the engine got badly damaged. But things like these don’t happen very often. DRIVE: What are good practices that car owners should do to make their cars, tyres, etc. last longer? Basically, what can a car owner do to look after their car properly? Ko Zayar: For example, if you’re going from Yangon to Mandalay or vise versa, check the car engine, tyres and everything before and after the drive. The same goes for sport cars owners. They should carefully check the tyres, since cars with greater horsepower are more likely to lose traction. It is also important to choose shock absorbers that help prevent the car from slipping while making a turn at high speed, depending on the age of the car. Something car owners can do themselves to maintain their cars is to check the oil, water, and tyre air levels of the car often before driving. Plus, the more time you spend on a car, the more beautiful it gets. And after beautifying their cars, car lovers tend to sit and look at their cars from a cafe or restaurant where they can see them. Another problem car lovers usually have to face is they have to fight with their girlfriends mainly because they spend most of their time on cars and don’t give their girlfriends enough time and attention. Sometimes, they totally forget about the girlfriends sitting with them and their only attention is on the car. DRIVE: How is the growth in the car repair industry going? Ko Zayar: Being punctual with best quality care for every car that come to us and fulfilling customers’ needs and wants has helped the growth of our company. I’m doing this for a passion rather than just for money, so even if more cars are imported with less bargains, it would still let us modify our race car repair industry even more as long as there’s more cars coming in.

.I.Y ance for

Dainten

DRIVE: How do you see it progressing in the future with new import restrictions? Ko Zayar: Honestly speaking, if the price of the original car from the factory is 2,000, it usually goes up to about 3000 when it reaches the dealers. But here in Yangon, it jumps about twice or three times the original price. For me, I’m all about race cars, so I want my fellow racers and sport car enthusiasts to get the stuffs they want with the right price and much cheaper than that. We’re having trouble importing cars from the border as the current rules and regulations say that car models older than 2006 cannot be imported as they’re out of date. For example, all classics like JDM Japanese domestic motors are models before 2006. The government restricted import permits, so it would give more opportunity for us sport car lovers if the new government loosens up the restrictions a bit. DRIVE: How many people are working for you? How do you train your workers? Ko Zayar: I divided the workshop into 3 divisions. Each have senior staff, supervisors, leaders managing the mechanics, those who do the body kits and those for maintenance, etc. I have over thirty staff and I had a planner who pulled this whole project together. My staff are trained carefully to be punctual with their work and to give the best customer service, as our customers have come to expect.

m r car you

From having your spark plugs changed professionally to replacing windshield wipers or simply applying a wax to the exterior, here are 5 maintenance areas you can take into your own hands, saving you perhaps thousands of dollars over the life of your vehicle.

Tools You Need: None Time to Complete: 15 Minutes

Tools You Need: Ratchet or socket wrench, 12” socket extension, spark plug socket Time to Complete: 20—30 Minutes

Tools You Need: Phillips-head screwdriver or wrench, rags, radiator flush solution, coolant, funnel, used coolant receptacle Time to Complete: 30 Minutes

Tools You Need: A good quality wax or polish Time to Complete: 20 Minutes

After about 30,000 miles the spark plugs need replacing. Set aside some time and exercise patience, because you need to install the replacements in a specific order. It might sound like intense work, but don’t be discouraged as it’s a pretty simple process if you follow these steps.

Especially relevant for our tropical environment, the radiator and cooling system need to be clean to work efficiently and effectively. Even with normal wear and tear, the radiator builds up deposits that can disrupt the cooling system. A radiator flush once a year is a quick and inexpensive way to keep your system in shape. Make sure your car is completely cool before you begin.

Windshield Wipers

Depending how much you use them, they’ll need replacing about every six months or a year. With the monsoon season well and truly here, windshield wipers are vital for clear vision. There are different designs car to car, so you may have to follow a few different steps according to your owner’s manual. Basically, the process is as follows: 1. Lift the blades away from the windshield and remove the old blades. 2. Most designs show a tab on the underside of the wiper. Push the tab to remove the old blade. 3. Pay attention as to how the old blades connect to the metal arms. 4. Attach the new blades, being careful not to bend the wiper arms or scratch your windshield. Line everything up and make sure the new ones are secure and tight.

Spark Plugs

Radiator Flush

1. Locate your spark plugs attached to the thick rubbery wires. 2. Depending on how many cylinders your car has, you’ll find either four, six, or eight plugs. 3. Your spark plugs are installed in a certain order, which you need to maintain. Do not remove all of the wires at once. Remove the wire to the first spark plug only. 4. Use your spark plug socket and extension on your ratchet to remove the first spark plug. 5. Install the new spark plug, screwing it in by hand at first and then tightening it with a wrench for a snug fit. Do not over-tighten. 6. Re-attach the spark plug wire.

1. Check your owner’s manual to find the radiator’s drain plug. Put your used coolant receptacle in place, unscrew the drain plug, and let the old coolant drain completely. 2. Replace the drain plug and remove the radiator cap. 3. Use the funnel to add the radiator flush cleaning solution and then fill the rest of the radiator with water. 4. Replace the radiator cap. 5. Start the car, and let it run until it gets to its normal operating temperature. 6. Turn on your heater to its hottest position, and let the car run for 10 minutes. 7. Turn the car off and wait for the engine to cool completely. 8. Drain the contents of the radiator. 9. Refill the radiator with fresh coolant. 10. Be sure to dispose of the old coolant safely, by bringing it to an auto parts store, gas station, or mechanic. Old coolant is fatal, but its sweet taste can be enticing and deadly to animals.

Repeat these steps for each spark plug, one at a time.

DRIVE: What future plans do you have for your business? Ko Zayar: What I plan to do in future is to cooperate with another company and lease a racing track near Thuwunna Stadium. That one will have a workshop and a service center (for example, if your tyre breaks off or something, we’ll see to it at once). It will also have a dining bar and a restaurant. I plan to open that this year. 64

Bodywork and Paint

Wax and polish compounds protect your car’s bodywork from fading, add shine to the finishing look, and are easy to apply. Furthermore, if you park under a tree where birds hang out and regularly repaint your car, Yangon pigeons in particular, you’ll be thankful of this tip. There are compounds in bird waste that can damage most car paint jobs, creating a dull spot in the bodywork if left to bake in the sun.

Air Filter Tools You Need: None Time to Complete: 10 Minutes Every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, you need a new air filter for your car.You can pay a mechanic and give up your car for a day, or you can do the following: 1. Find the black rectangular box with metal clips on the side under the hood of your car. Inside here is where you’ll find the filter 2. Open up the casing, and check out how the air filter fits inside it. Make a note of which way the filter faces. 3. Remove the old air filter, and insert the new one exactly how the old one sat. Close the metal clips.

INSURANCE

GADGETS

How much car insurance do you need? Shopping for car insurance is a financial planning topic that is often overlooked. Do you have the right car insurance? Do you have liability or comprehensive coverage? In this article, Yoon Yoon and Grand Guardian Insurance provide helpful tips to consider when taking out car insurance. You don’t have to be an actuary to understand the probability of collision costs increase with the ever-increasing traffic volume on our roads, alongside Yangon’s worsening traffic jams. Until an accident happens though, few people pay much attention to their insurance coverage, and then it’s too late; the damage can run a deep scar into the finances. That’s why getting the right insurance protection before hitting the road is so important.

covers the insured, vehicle and third party. It varies from one policy provider to another, but among the risks covered by this type of insurance are loss or damage caused to the vehicle due to: • Flood, hurricane, cyclones, typhoon, storm • Theft, burglary, strikes and riots • Terrorism, Malicious acts • Accident, Fire or Theft. • Floods and earthquake • Towing charges incurred after an accident.

The basic concept of insurance is simple: You pay an insurance company money to guarantee that if your car is damaged or destroyed, your insurer will then pay to return it to its original condition, or else replace it. Rarely is it that simple in reality, and the raw truth only comes to light when processing a claim.

With this extent of end-to-end coverage, it ensures less stress for the policyholder. What Comprehensive Motor Insurance will not cover is the loss or damage caused due to:

In Myanmar, there are currently two types of insurance available for vehicles. Most car owners are aware of the Compulsory Third Party Liability insurance coverage required when renewing a vehicles’ road license. But this only protects against the loss of third party damages. Any damage to your own car is your own problem, unless you have the second insurance type known as Comprehensive Motor Insurance, which is provided by private insurance companies in Myanmar. Last year, for example, car owners of around 10,000 vehicles in Yangon and around 1,000 vehicles in Mandalay were covered under the Comprehensive Motor Insurance Policy with Grand Guardian Insurance Public Co. Ltd. They also offer a claim handling team accessible 24 hours for added customer convenience.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of impact. • Vehicle being driven by a person not holding a valid driving license. • Damage to the tyres unless the vehicle is also damaged. • Wear and tear or mechanical breakdown. The insurance period for one policy is minimum three months to maximum one year. Annual policies are reviewed based on market value of insured vehicles, engine power (cubic capacity) and purpose usage of vehicles e.g., private usage or commercial usage. Generally, for the private usage vehicles, the premium rating will be minimum 0.8% to 1.2% of insured vehicles’ market value for one year. For commercial usage, there will be 1.2% to 1.8% of cars’ market value for one year.

How does Comprehensive Motor Insurance work? In short, it’s one of the higher levels of protection you can get for your motor. Without it the Compulsory Third Party Liability insurance only covers damage to others as the result of an accident that was deemed your fault. Comprehensive Motor Insurance on the other hand, covers for damage to your car as well. It also applies when fault can’t be proven, e.g., if you return to your car in the morning to find that someone has hit you during the night and driven off. Without comprehensive cover, you risk having to fund the repairs yourself. Worse still, if your car is written off you’ll have to pay for a brand-new motor.

It’s worth shopping around from one provider to another for Comprehensive Motor Insurance coverage, as your age and marital status, where you live, and the type of vehicle you drive are all influential factors when it comes to how much you pay for the policy. While you can’t do anything about your age, and few people will move just to lower their insurance premium, one simple way to save on insurance costs is to consider buying a vehicle that costs less to insure. So before purchasing your next set of wheels, first have a chat with an insurance provider.

Is Comprehensive Insurance worth it? A comprehensive policy gives you that added level of protection and peace of mind that you won’t necessarily have to pay for expensive repairs. Most car dealers will advise car owners to take out a Comprehensive Motor Insurance policy because it 66

VIRTUAL REALITY T H E

N E W

F R O N T I E R

Elias DuBose

The promise of virtual reality (VR) has been in the collective consciousness for decades, inspiring incarnations in science fiction, from the Holodeck on the Starship Enterprise to the dystopian life simulation from The Matrix. Despite several sub-par attempts by ambitious developers, the quest continued for the means to immerse oneself into a fully realized world. Finally, technology has advanced to where creators can develop experiences that transport users to fantastic lands filled with elves and fairies or even place them in the front row of their favorite musician’s concert. The innovations continue apace. Here are the top gadgets that give you a new way to experience your world.

GADGETS

Enter The World of VR

Replay Your Memories

Fly High 5

Immerse Yourself

Samsung Gear VR ($99.99)

Playstation VR ($399.99)

HTC Vive ($799.99)

Ricoh Theta S ($349.95)

For those that only want to dip their toes into the VR Realm, the Gear VR gives Samsung S6 and above users experiences offered by their partner Oculus. While some of its initial software releases may not be as intense as the following hardware systems (you are effectively holding a cell phone to your eyes), the Gear VR provides dinner party entertainment for those just dabbling in this niche. It also means you get both a VR device and a phone.

Available October 2016

By far the most robust headsets released this year, the HTC Vive drops users into another world. Along with the headset, are laser towers that track the users’ movements within the program. Vive is also supported by game developer Valve and their long-standing distribution network, Steam, assuring users that the new peripheral will have long-term support. Note: to use the HTC Vive, consumers must have a VR capable computer, costing $1,200 to $3,500, though some bundles have discounted rates.

If you want to share an unforgettable experience — a concert, wedding, going mach 3 in a private plane — you’ll want this 360 degree camera to capture the occasion. Able to shoot for near halfhour stretches in HD, as well as livestream, the Ricoh Theta S lets you shoot, share, and revisit your experiences. The handheld device is even portable enough to fit in your front pocket.

Helipal Storm Type A Racing Drone ($359.00)

Ossic X- 3D Audio Headphones ($299.00)

Experience the feeling of flight from the perspective of your very own drone, decked out with several cameras to give you full vision of its surroundings as you pilot it. This is a great entry drone into a growing and competitive community of racers that put just as much work and enthusiasm into the miniature devices as tuning their hot rod. Easily modded with plug-and-play components, this drone is a good entry point for those looking to get into the high-flying hobby.

Available February 2017

With an install base already in hand, the Playstation (PS) VR draws on a robust library of games. Some will be retrofitted for the device, to provide for early adopters. Boasting a large catalogue and mid-range price, the Playstation VR may be the best choice for easy assimilation. Note: It requires a Playstation 4 ($399.99), Move and Camera to use the VR headset. They are currently offering bundles including the three peripherals (PS VR, Move, and Camera) for $499.99.

For full VR immersion, audio that matches the visual experience goes a long way and Ossic X will fill in what other VRs may not provide. These headphones track your head movements and positioning to enhance what hits your ears, enhaincing the reality of what you see. These headphones will also be usable with non-VR products as well.

TIMEPIECES

THE SPIRIT OF THE RACE

Chopard Mille Migila GTS Power Control

Chopard Mille Migilla XL Race Edition

Blaring down the straightaway and pulling a hairpin turn, the driver takes a quick peek at his wrist in the split second it takes him to apex the turn. He shifts into a higher gear, feeling another driver at his back. Seeing the next turn coming up, his eyes dart again at his wrist as he confirms just how little remains before he reaches paydirt. As his opponent inches ever closer in his side-mirror, the driver realises that he has the win. On the podium, his trophy held high, all can see his silent partner there on his wrist. In the spirit of racing, here we present some of the finest race-inspired watches to keep you in the fight for the finish line.

Ushering in the Mille Migila Collection by Chopard, the Power Control is the perfect companion for those looking for that masculine touch in their timepieces. This Swiss Official Chronometer (COSC) certified watch is mounted on a 43mm case, the Power Control also sports a rubber strap that will hold your stainless steel watch close as you fly through the streets. Water resistant to100 meters, the case is also anti-reflective and scratch resistant.

A throwback to the cars that ran the Mille back in the 1920’s, only 1,000 of these were crafted. This wonder has larger than usual numerals, making it easier to quickly eyeball as you speed toward the next turn. At 46mm, the stainless steel case is waterproof to 50 meters, while also incorporating stainless steel pushers. Also, enjoy the 60-hour power reserve. Add to that the XL’s glare-resistant sapphire crystal casing, and this rarity is a wearable work of art.

Breitling for Bentley GT3 Chronograph Made to commemorate the recent success of the Bentley team, this chronograph shows how exceptional partnerships between premium brands can bring magnificence to light. Beautifully constructed in a black titanium case, this durable watch includes a carbon fibre dial that ticks over a face that includes 60-minute and 12-hour counters. Water resistant to 100 meters, this self-winder also has the “Continental GT3” logo printed on the strap.

Elias DuBose

TIMEPIECES

TAG Heuer Monza Chronograph The original version the Monza was released back in 1976. This reissue now includes a titanium case along with steel pushers that create a light and sturdy feel to this wearable. Along with its calfskin strap, the chronograph has a vintage feel, despite some of its updates. Rounding out its essentials are a 42-hour power reserve and a matte black case.

TAG Heuer Red Bull Racing Team Watch

Breitling Chronomat 44 Airborne

In partnership with the F1 racing team, the colour scheme on this steel bad boy comes with either a steel wristband or a blue technical textile strap with red stitching akin to the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat belts. Furthering the colour scheme, the tachymeter scale sports a matte blue finish as well. To further the Formula 1 sponsorship, the back is engraved with the sportsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; logo along with the two sponsors.

For the 30th Anniversary of the Chronomat series, Breitling has brought together this COSC certified chronograph that is available in both 41 and 44 mm styles. Though sporting a larger face, this allows the wearer greater time-check visibility. Available with a military strap or pilot bracelet. The movement also has a 70hour power reserve. Dials are available in Onyx Black and Sierra Silver.

SOCIETY

SOCIETY At a recent Drive With Passion event in held in Yangon earlier this year, a friendship between seven likeminded motor enthusiasts was formed. Owners of their dream cars, they clubbed together to form their own private car club.

MOTOR SPEED ROGUES Yoon Yoon

Yoon Yoon

Rogues in the playfully mischievous sense of the word, these seven friends call themselves Motor Speed Rogues. Meeting up every week to share their motoring passion and talk all things cars, they help each other to solve any problems they encounter with their wheels of choice. Recently, Drive reporter Yoon Yoon joined five of the seven Motor Speed Rogues on a road trip from Yangon to Kandawgyi and interviewed them about their dream cars. Rogues in the playfully mischievous sense of the word, these seven friends call themselves Motor Speed Rogues. Meeting up every week to share their motoring passion and talk all things cars, they help each other to solve any problems they encounter with their wheels of choice. Recently, Drive reporter Yoon Yoon joined five of the seven Motor Speed Rogues on a road trip from Yangon to Kandawgyi and interviewed them about their dream cars.

Left to Right:

Photography by Gerhard JĂśrĂŠn 75

Khant Zaw Hein Zayar Maung Htut Zin Win Aung Hein Phyu Khine Kyaw Soe Nyan Paing Min Htet Aung

SOCIETY

Zin Min Oo Your dream machine: My car is a Nissan Fair Lady 300 ZX, 1998 model. I gave it the Japanese name Kuzuri, meaning the powerful immortal devil, because I want it to be like that. Red is my crazy color and, if I have a chance, I want to buy a red GTR. Driving in Yangon: The worst of worst traffic jams occurs during the rush hours 8am in the morning and 3 to 4pm in the evening. The heavier the traffic conditions are, the more fuel the cars eat up. There are speed-limit metres to check the speed of the cars on highway road and in the future, I hope we can control the rate of car accidents and then people will learn to obey the rules more if things get better. Worst experience: Once I was driving cabriolet style with the roof down, enjoying the open air on Sayar San road. All of a sudden the rain fell and I had to rush out of the car and close the roof.

Photography by The Pictureman

Dr. Phyu Khine Kyaw

Soe Nyan Paing

Your dream machine: The car I own right now is Nissan Fair Lady 350 Z, 2002 model. Little Puca is the name I have given it and I can say that I am lucky enough to own the car of my dreams.

Your dream machine: My car is a Nissan Skyline GTT 34, 1998 model, manufactured in Japan. I gave it the name RB Blacky relating to the engine type and colour. My dream car is chocolate coloured Silvia.

Driving in Yangon: Parami and downtown areas are the most congested. Recently, we even see the middle class people owning two or three cars per household in Yangon. Apart from the excessive numbers of car ownership, the neighbouring countries keep importing more cars than our roads can cope with, and that makes the traffic worse. To solve this, we will have to fix the roads; for example we need to make sure that six lanes of cars can drive on six-lane roads and eight lanes on eight-lanes road. Moreover, one thing we cannot dismiss is the careful consideration to the parking spots.

Driving in Yangon: It’s normal to have traffic jams in Yangon these days; I blame the corrupted buses and taxis. Although we have a lot of overpasses here, as long as people don’t follow the Motor Vehicle Rules, it will not be possible to reduce the traffic. Only if every driver on the road to follows the rules will there be an improvement.

Photography by The Pictureman

Worst experience: None. It is simple unforgettable to own my car. That’s it. 76

Worst experience: One time, I knew that one of the tyres was flat but, unfortunately, I was on the free lane and afraid of the cars behind me honking. I had no choice but to keep driving. As a result, I couldn’t use that tyre anymore.

Photography by The Pictureman 77

SOCIETY

Khant Zaw Hein Your dream machine: My car is a Mark 2 IRV, 2001 model, manufactured in Japan. I call it “Little Panda” because I think it looks like the animal. I am crazy about one day getting a Nissan Skyline R32 GTR. Driving in Yangon: A lot of terrible traffic in Yangon has become part of our daily life. If I can pass through places like Hle Dan (one of the worst traffic jam places) without having to wait twice at traffic lights, that becomes very extraordinary for me. The worst thing is that we have to spend one hour to get places that should only take 15 minutes. The new government is setting up 100-day plans to make difference in every field, so I am sure they will also have some plans to handle the traffic jams. Worst experience: Once I hit another car and I was extorted to pay 200,000 Ks, although the damage I made was only about 20,000 Ks worth. Later, I was able to persuade the owner to go to the workshop with me and it only cost me the 20,000 Ks value of repair.

Photography by The Pictureman

Aung Hein Your dream machine: My car is a Mitsubishi Evolution 7, 2013 model manufactured in Japan. I call it Stussy CVO. If you ask me about my dream car, it’s the Lancer Evolution 7 Voltex Body Kit. Driving in Yangon: In my opinion, the traffic jams are mostly because of the reckless street vendors who intrude over the roads. The worst place for this is Chinatown. In some cases, cars can no longer go on the roads. Right now, we have a new government and I am hoping that they will try to handle this issue.

Photography by The Pictureman

Worst experience: An incident? It was raining outside and as I wanted to smoke, I rolled down the window. In that moment, a car overtook me while driving through muddy water on the road. Before I could act, the water splashed into my car and completely drenched it. I had to go through all the trouble of drying my car manually with a dryer.

Photography by Gerhard Jörén 79

ILLUSTRATION

ROSE GARDEN H O T E L

Event Spaces For Any Occasion: Inn Gyin Ballroom - One of Biggest & Most Grand in Yangon

Event Spaces For Any Occasion: Swe Daw Room - With Views out to City & Shwedagon Pagoda

For Your Business Needs: Business Center, Office Suites, Meeting Rooms

For Relaxation & Environment: The Veranda Bar (1st Floor)

After much deliberation, Aung Kyaw decided itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be quicker to walk to work. Ben Hopkins

y o u a r e i m p orta n t

171, Upper Pansodan Road, Yangon tel. (+95) 1 371992 fax. (+95) 1 371993 info@theroseyangon.com www.theroseyangon.com

ADVERTORIAL

6th Generation Elantra The sixth generation Elantra continues Hyundai’s “fluidic sculpture” styling theme. The Elantra with its record sales of 186,361 units in the U.S. in 2011 was crowned North American Car of the Year at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. At the 8th Manila International Auto Show, the Elantra was crowned as the Philippine Car of the Year, the first time a Korean car maker has won the award. Hyundai Elantra was world best selling Top 5 in 2015. It is not a surprise that Elantra which comes as greatly distinguished from its predecessor has won several awards for its design. This car has also received awards for its sophisticated safety features. Some of the awards Elantra has won are: 2012 2013 2013 2016

Car of the year in South Africa. Car of the year in USA. Car of the year in Canadian. MECOTY award at Middle East Car of the year.

The official price of Elantra sold by Hyundai Showroom is 25,900 USD (Standard Grade) and 28,900 USD ( Luxury Grade), and it is given 3 years (or) 100,000 km warranty. It can be purchased in cash down payment or in installments, and it can also be leased on a yearly basis. Good news for customers is that Hyundai car showroom is providing Monsoon special promotion until July and you can get a Elantra Brand new car with 3 years HP in order to give only 20% down payment which will cost $5,180 and monthly payment is only $575. Don’t miss this chance to get a brand new Hyundai car with reasonable price. If interested, customers can contact Hyundai Showroom, the official and sole distributor of Hyundai passenger cars at: Yangon Office Address: No. (2/6), 2 Quarter, corner of Insein Road and Thamine Station Road, Mayangone Township, Yangon Ph: 01 522 723, 09 42 100 2051. Service Center Ph No: 01-522 724. Mandalay Office Address: No.10, 40th Street, Between 78th & 79th Street, Maha Aung Myay Township, Mandalay Ph: 09-253 151 970. Service Center Ph No.: 09-450 060 009.

* Prices are given in USD for convenience and can vary with current exchange rate.

Performance & Specifications Displacement 1,591 CC Max. Speed (kph) 195 Max. Power (ps/rpm) 128 / 6,300 Max. Torque (kg.m/rpm) 16 / 4,850 Acceleration (0—100 kph) (sec) 11.6 Fuel Type Gasoline Transmission Type 6-Speed Automatic FWD

CLASSIFIEDS SHOW ROOMS

CAR SALES CENTERS

BMW Add: No. 485, Corner of Pyay Road & Nar Nat Taw Road, Kamayut Township Ph: +951 2306133 Web: www.bmwmyanmar.com

Auto Top Power Add: No. 232, Dhamazedi Road, West Shwe Gone Dine, Bahan Township Ph: +951 544724

Chevrolet Add: No. 242,Upper Pazundaung Road, Setsan Quarter, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township Ph: +951 9000621 (Ext:200-202) Web: www.chevrolet.com.mm

Evergreen Autos Add: No. 7B, Sawmahar Street, Bocho Quarter 2, Bahan Tsp. Ph: +95 098583022 Email: evergreenautos.eg@gmail.com Facebook: evergreenautos

Ford Add: No. 3, Ward 12, Insein Main Road, Hlaing Township Ph: +951 9669034-9669038 Web: www.ford-myanmar.com

Future Auto Add: No. 140, New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township Ph: +951 400785 Email: future.auto0@gmail.com

Honda Add: No. 43,44,45 (A-002), Between Inn Street & Pyinn Ma Street, Kyeemyint Taing River Road, Kyeemyint Taing Township Ph: +951 508478 Email: info@ncxmyanmar.com

Premier Automobile Add: No. 84, Thamain Baran Street, Tamwe Township Ph: +951 539233 Email: sales@premierautomobiles.net

Hyundai Add: No. 2/6, 2 Quarter, Corner of Insein Rd & Thamine Station Rd,Mayangone Township Ph: +951 522546-7, 522558-9, 522301,522723 Web: www.hyundaimotor.com.mm Jaguar Add: No. 3, Ward 12, Insein Main Road, Hlaing Township Ph: +951 9669034-9669038 Web: www.capital.jaguardealers.motortrak. com/ Mazda Add: No. 92, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township Ph: +951 555020, 555441 Mercedes Add: No. 51, Pyay Road, Mayangone Township Ph: 01 666712 Web: www.mercedes-benz.com.mm Toyota (showroom & service center are located at the same address) Add: 87(A), Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Near Pearl Condo, Bahan Township Ph: +951 540740, 400950, 540160

RIXS International Co.Ltd. Add: No. 296, (E-2), Aye Yar Won Road, Tharkayta Township Ph: +951 243737, 245732 Email: contact@rixsmyanmar.com Web: www,rixsgroup.com WINKO Services Co.Ltd. Add: No. 27, Thukhawaddy Street, 6 Quarter, Yankin Township Ph: +951 579863 Email: sales@winkotrade.com CAR SERVICE CENTERS Auto Man No.331,332,333,Thitsar Main Road, 9th Ward, South Okkalapa Township Ph: +95 9262405457 Web: www.automancenter.com Dr. Elephant Add: No. 1, Kone Myint Yeik Thar Lane, 7 Mile, 6 Quarter, Mayangone Township Ph: +951 666675 Web: www.drelephantcarservice.com Golden JDA Auto Service Center Add: No. 66, Kyeikasan Road, Tamwe Township Ph: +95 9799995120, 9799995130

Inya Myaing Add: No. 22 & 43-A, Inya Myaing Road, Bahan Township Ph: +95 095019744, 01 504233 One Stop Service Center Add: No. 53/52-53/60, Laydaungkan Road, Near BOC Bus Stop, G/B Block, Thingangyun Township Ph: +95 9451565560 Speed Add: No. 311, Yadanar Road, South Okkalapa Township Ph: +951 560382 Email: speedservicecenter@gmail.com Yaung Ni Oo Services Co. Ltd. Add: No. 621, Yomayeiktha Street, 2 Quarter, Kamayut Township Ph: +951 2306106 Web: www.yaungnioo.com CAR RENTAL Centurion Auto Add: No. 157/41, Yeik Thar 2nd Street, Thingangyun Township Ph: +951 571586, 223423 Email: info@centurionauto.com Web: www.centurionauto.com Lucky Trip Add: No. 11/5(B), Baho Road, Corner of Wai Lu Wun Main Street,Than Tada Ward, Sanchaung Township Ph: +951 539619 Email: towerlightc@gmail.com Myanmar Executive Limousine Service Add: No. 74, Lann Thit Rd, Nant Thar Gone Ward, Insein Township Ph: +951 646330 Web: www.mmels.com SM Tours & Transport Add: No. 32, Ground Floor, 10th Street ( Middle Block), Lanmadaw Township Ph: +951 225774, 225775,225776 Web: www.smmyanmar.com Taw Win Add: No. 54, Mingalar Street, FMI City, Hlaing Thar Yar Township Ph: +951 95504752, 98576061 Email: tawwincarrental@gmail.com

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Your Brand Home Advertise With Us! DRIVE is a Myanmar and English language motoring magazine that introduces a new concept in automotive publications to Myanmar. Positioned to be sharp and cutting edge in both content and design, DRIVE grabs the reader’s attention by informing and entertaining them on how to make the best purchasing decisions on a range of automotive products, while also getting the most from their car and their driving experience. While remaining accessible and friendly, DRIVE invites the reader to become one of the ‘car cognoscenti’. Want to know all about the world of cars? Read DRIVE. Make your brand visible to the nation’s car lovers. Contact us for tailored advertising packages and more information. sales@lycheeventures.com 01 375 680 / 0977 900 3702