What happens when hybrid meets art?

Them guys had a ball creating this masterpiece which is currently up in KLCC Convex tunnel :) The idea ties back to being 'naturally driven'. Driven to inspire change in the way we look at and do things. Why print when we can paint? Sure hell takes a lot more effort, but it's way more rewarding :)

Who says you can't go for a spin and keep the planet spinning?

Watch this space soon for an elegant surprise.  We're adding a new member to the family.  Naturally ;)

Honda UK sparks new Civic.

I can relate to this.  Naturally ;)

Tokyo Motorshow 2011 - Honda Press Launch.

I must have been mistakenly born as a girl.  The minute I set foot into the hall, seriously seriously seriously, I forget what bugs me.  I forget everything that bugs me.  Heck, I forget everything!  So I'm gonna take some time to post up the goodies and the sexies from TMS 2011, please bear with me for all-car talk for the next few days.

First up.  Honda (of course, where else would I be first right?).

This year, you can tell Honda is coming back albeit a tough year it has gone through with Japan's earthquake and the Thai flood.  Although its corporate direction maintains towards eco technology (hybrid, fuel cell, EV) but it has not forgotten its 'challenging spirit' roots.  And you can tell from its concept showcase today including the world premier of the EV open-top small sports, the EV-STER, that Honda had maintain its sports DNA albeit recognising the need to change how we manufacture and use mobility products for both the environment and future sake.  Today, Honda showcased 7 next generation Electromotive concept models.

This is the AC-X, a next-generation plug-in hybrid vehicle which offers a more comfortable and enjoyable time in the vehicle during all driving situations, from urban to long-distance driving. With the choices of an "engine drive mode" for more aggressive driving or an "automatic drive mode" for more relaxed driving, the vehicle broadens the joy of mobility.

And of course the much anticipated small sports EV-STER - an all-rounder performer in an exhilarating drive and environmental performance that literally takes your breath away (if you thought the CR-Z was cool enough...).

And then the world premier of N-concepts which N stands for New Next Nippon Norimono (the new next-generation of Japanese mobility).  They may look weird and boxy to you but they're hell popular in Japan's Kei car market.  Considering Japan's socio-economics, population trend and the fact that Japanese (after what they have gone through) are a hell lot more conscious about ecology, a lot of automotive manufacturers have to ensure they continuously produce products that can stay relevant with the needs of the time.  So it isn't just Honda that will be driving this change.  We see other Japanese makes ensuring their products are energy-efficient, possible zero-emission and compact in size.

There's also the Fit EV which will be on sale next year.  It has two plug-ins on both frontal side of the car.  Exterior wise, looks like good old familiar Jazz, now with a striking blue colour.

Interior sports a premium-feel sort of light grey fabric and finishing.  The information display wasn't lit up, so I couldn't tell how cool the meters are.  But you can see from here, it's simple and straightforward.

This is definitely interesting for me because under the hood, there isn't an i-VTEC engine.  Instead, it has a 92-kWh electric motor built-in with a lithium-ion battery pack that can take you up to 198km per charge of 240V outlet for about 3 hours.

And of course, completing the hybrid family, how can we not have Freed.  Design is similar with a bit of exterior modification.  But true to its hybrid DNA, it has a different multi-information display compared to the current Freed we have.

  

Last but not least, how can ASIMO not appear at Honda's booth in Tokyo Motorshow 2011.  As usual, he's an endearment to all :) He is now more dexterous and can utilize his fingers to open bottle caps to pour a drink.  This is a notable improved precision in Honda robotic technology.  Anyway, cute as ever :)

Will be spending some more time in Tokyo this week, so more information to come ;) 

Why robotic research is important to Honda, important to society, important to the future.

Some brands are just not mere projects. You can complete a project and walk away, whether you've done it well or not and say, "It's done". But some brands are what I call work-in-progress. It's a living organic culture which you are simply part of. And proud to be part of. A real living brand must always leave a part of its working culture that is sacred to its vision, the very one it was founded for. Untouched and unperturbed by the forces of macro-environments and profit margin. It is simply sacred.

Why is robotic research so important to Honda? Or more curiously, what has it got to do with Honda? Because...

Our latest video for Honda.

Too many people are not careful with their Hondas, so you know where to send it to the next time yours need servicing :)

New Honda Brio presentation video.

Launched last year in India Motorshow as Honda's new small concept, the Brio is now ready to roll in Thailand. Soon Malaysian shores?

Japanese automakers halted production.

From The Star Motoring, today.

TOKYO: Japanese automakers halted production at assembly plants in areas hit by Friday's 8.9-magnitude earthquake. One Honda worker died after being crushed by a collapsing wall.

More than 30 other people were injured when walls and parts of a ceiling crumbled at a Honda Motor Co. research facility in northeastern Tochigi prefecture, the company said.

Production at two Honda plants was halted, but resumed shortly afterward at one, it said.

Waves of tsumanis sweeping ashore along Iwanuma in northern Japan on Friday. - AP

Toyota Motor Corp., the world's biggest automaker, shut down two auto assembly plants, in Iwate and Miyagi prefectures.

There were no immediate reports of injuries among its workers, spokesman Monika Saito said. Parts makers were also shut down, she said.

Nissan Motor Co. halted production at five of its plants in northeastern Japan and in the Yokohama area near Tokyo. It said two workers were slightly injured at its Tochigi plant and its technical centre in Kanagawa prefecture, near Tokyo.

The quake, the biggest in magnitude in modern Japanese history, left hundreds of people dead or missing, and triggered a tsunami that swept over towns, farms and an airport.
-AP

The New Honda Jazz commercial in the UK.

Integrate.

And integrate.

Honda 'Innovation in Motion' voted as the best booth in KL Motorshow 2010.

I remember my last trip to Tokyo Motorshow and I was very much inspired by the strategy taken by our Japanese counterpart in Dentsu who produced the booth for Honda as well. Although the production is very much different, but the idea of not using an exhibitor's space in a conventional manner really challenged my initial thought.

So we came back and threw a lot of 'what ifs' around. What if we could utilize the 11-day event to send a message out to the public on what Honda is all about? What if we could integrate online and offline, at KLIMS and outside, with an activation that could engage people even without them having to do too much? What if we could make people feel good about themselves when they engage with us? What if we 'host' the visitors instead of just exhibiting? What if we could design structures and mechanisms that would make sense to what would otherwise be very boring static exhibits? What if we present ourselves and our dreams and let transparency judge our worthiness?

So many what ifs, and finally we say, let's just do it. And we did it. We designed the entire space based on the thought of 'Innovation in Motion' within the given budget, to serve as a media vehicle instead. Honda is a company beyond a mere car manufacturer. It was a manufacturer of dreams and power products and the story was told via a 19ft wide LCD screen(s) with an awesome presenter. We produced additional videos to share a vision of forming a new wave of generation that is simple, smart and responsible called The Insight Generation. We connected our visitors with the general public via a simple insight that everyone is happy when they give and receive so we gave out a potted plant outside of KLIMS on behalf of every person who voted to be part of The Insight Generation, who basically supports green mobility. We did not showcase any concept cars, but we shared aspirations of very real, today's models. We brought to the public for the very first time in Malaysia, one of Honda's many innovative endeavors in designing for the next generation of mobile society, the U3-X. We challenged the visitors with race simulators that winners are defined in the most unexpected manner - on how good of an eco-driver they are instead of the usual fast and furious scoring system - in line with KLIMS 2010's theme that focused on green technology and concept cars that encouraged the public to adopt an environment-friendly lifestyle.

When the news was announced, needless to say we were as ecstatic as our clients. And we want to thank them from the bottom of our hearts for this awesome opportunity, since it was our first Motorshow project. The dream of seeing all your blood, sweat and tears coming together at one single consumer touch point was truly satisfying. The award is awesome, but what's more priceless is the various positive feedback we got from fellow exhibitors, media and client associates. That my friend, is truly truly priceless. Till 2013 :)

Creating a new insightful generation that supports green mobility!

If you have voted for a better future, congratulations and thank you. You are now part of The Insight Generation. If you have not and wish to do so, visit www.honda.com.my ;)

For every vote garnered during KL Motorshow (3rd to 12th December - on ground and online), Honda will give a potted plant to the general public on behalf of the voters. A small gesture to paint the town green but big meaning ;)

Innovation in Motion at KL Motorshow.

Before the show starts. Some of us have been camping here since the first day. And some of us have been going in and out like zombies. But it's okay! We're counting down till the final finale :) Hang on, team!

Meanwhile, come say hi. Get an awesome magnetic calendar and a trendy tote bag (that is IF you are part of the Insight Generation), and I'll try to sell you some cars ;)

More pics here.

Insight: The hybrid generation that breeds a new way of thinking.

Well, it's a wrap. All the hard work for the past quarter, put into the launch of the new Honda Insight has finally paid off. To be honest, the production timeline was super tight but we finally saw everything come together. And it's the reason why I'm doing this again and again and again ;)

I can't help it. Of all the cars that we have launched for Honda, Insight somehow seems to strike the closest chord in me. I guess it isn't just because it's a hybrid that's in trend right now, but more so due to it being a real challenge to distill the right message for the public since eco is still a superficial concept in Malaysia. Honda almost never does anything trendy just for trend sake. We really believe that Insight was a noble brainchild - the world's most affordable hybrid (at time of blogging). But the problem was it wasn't really true in Malaysia. And then the wind changed when the government announced the latest status for hybrid tax incentives. Having said that, Insight will never be a 'people's car' in this market due to its price tag. But from the way we saw it, it stood for something bigger than just Ringgit and sen. It is an idea that beckons a new kind of thinking that will help change the world, little by little, starting from our everyday choice, starting from the moment we sit inside our car and drive to work every morning.

***

Simplicity really makes our life cleaner and more efficient. And simplicity need not be boring and monotonous. Simplicity as defined by Honda has an element of excitement. And that brought to life in design form is known as the Insight. It's a product that doesn't just represent a new wave of engine technology that's collecting global spotlight. It is a concept that embodies a new way of thinking. Of using only what we need. No more big bulky flashy badge vehicles. But a compact that is simple, light weight and fun to drive at the same time. Insight is a kind of concept that teaches people how to 'un-drive' the way they did before and inspires them to do their part, no matter how small, their effort is always significant in volume. The way we saw it, the Insight represented a new kind of movement that is accessible to all. No more cumbersome technology that makes you pay for super futuristic elements that don't need to be there. Just keeping it simple. Simple to run, simple to care for, simple for everyday driving that is fun.

Welcome to the Insight Generation. Seriously, you should join us and watch the world change ;)

***

Just wanna do some honorary credits by thanking the entire team behind the Insight Generation campaign. Simply because I know how much effort each and everyone of them had put in.

Jacq - For being a super stylist and making the Insight Generation look so awesome in their simplicity

Terence - For being there and providing that sense of assurance that everything will run

KW - For being the 'rock' that grounds everyone and controlling our cost which if left to me and the creative, Dentsu would have gone bankrupt :)

Rizal and V - For the craftsmanship and the 'extra' entertainment ;) as well as for inspiring the creative energy from others (thank you for putting up with MY sh*t!)

Motoki - For ensuring the CI of our client is always treated with utmost care and respect

Carrot Films, especially An, Jefferi and Lani - For putting up with our collective sh*t and being so patient with us and of course, for such a well-made film

2 a.m - For being there and really delivering based on that trust

Pixel Post - For that commitment to deliver and just being awesome

LV - For the roving team who tirelessly gives out the potted plants, always with a smile

e-motion - For living up to that spirit of challenge and putting together another great video over night!

And last but not least, to Honda - For feeding our creative energy with your gracious support.

Seriously, seriously. Thank you.

I have an Insight, do you?

New Concept M by Honda launched in Malaysia.

Something that was planned very carefully for almost a year, taking into consideration of what a true blue Honda fan would enjoy, balanced by affordability.

Honda new Concept M rolled out yesterday, and it's opened for booking now. Seriously, very limited units available.

Dentsu Utama wins Honda 2-wheeler new product launch.

Something closer to home :)

Our colleague wrote a really touching email which solicited the most responses from the entire agency when announcing this win. I must admit, it brought back some memories - fond and less-than-fond ones - and it was a tough tough tough journey. But I'm glad we pulled through.

To those who have left us but were part of this journey, here's three toasts to you guys. I promise the real drinks will flow very soon.

This is what legends are made of.

Watch this full screen, with your headphones (HD for sound if there's ever such a thing) and be blown away. My palms were sweating after that breathtaking corner...

And this is what Honda is made of.

New commercial for CR-Z by W+K. And it strikes again!

Before I go 'huh'? Then I get it.

That's what I enjoy about ads like this. The execution detail is brilliant (no pun intended). No matter how much the envelope is pushed, it's always Honda.

Honda, The Extraordinare.

Watching this ad kind of rekindled the passionate belief that when we dream big, they come true even when we pass on. They happen because of others who got rubbed off from the same effect. Like from Soichiro Honda to European communications director, Ian Armstrong. Obviously dreams know no colours, nationalities and genes.

In case if you're stereotyping me, that I'm a sucker for W+K ads, I'm not. Okay, maybe a little. But this is something I can personally vouch for because nothing in the ad has been over expressed to gain votes that it does not deserve. It speaks about Honda's journey from rags to riches and obviously, the closer you are in reaching your dream, the more tumultuous you'd expect your expedition to become and the lonelier it may sometime seem. But if you would just hang on and survive the gorge, you'd find yourself soaring through eventually :) While it may sound like any plain old fairy tale journey with a happy ending that is already so familiar to many of us, the Honda story takes a twisted turn.

There is never a 'happy ending' in a Honda story. Its legendary immortality makes Honda a philosophy and a cult and it is this very belief system that simply will not allow itself to run on a conventional profit-making business model. It isn't interested in becoming the world's biggest car manufacturer, instead it yearns to be the most admired in terms of thinking and humility. 'How can a never-ending story achieves any dream?', you ask? That's because Honda's dreams are milestones to a bigger picture, which no one, not even Soichiro himself can put a finger to. No matter how much of a genius he is, he respects the unknown and a greater being and from there stems the kind of humility that's truly becoming an urban legend in corporations these days. That's the differentiating quality between Honda and other marques. Honda was, is and always will be a non-discriminating power plant for everyone.

I'd recommend you to grab this book 'The Honda Myth: The Genius and His Wake' and take on a challenging journey of two exceptional spirits when the world was at its best, worst and ugliest. Some dreams survive. But some evaporate as quickly as it came.

One of my personal favourite quotes is by Thomas Edward Lawrence or sometimes more famously known as Lawrence of Arabia. He said 'all men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act upon it with open eyes, to make it possible'.

Yea, what good is dreaming it, if you don't actually do it?


Note: In case if you are wondering, this isn't a paid post. My employer is not Honda.

Motorsports fans in Malaysia, be in the running to win grand stand tickets to Super GT!

Adventure buffs and motorsports fans share a common passion – they all love an intense adrenaline rush. And now there’s a reason for these enthusiasts to come together because Honda Malaysia is organizing an action adventure trip to Hulu Langat for its Honda Racing Malaysia Facebook fans. To participate, all you have to do is log on to become a fan on Facebook and register yourself for the trip.

Participants will be grouped into teams to race against time and complete all challenges to win. The winning team will be rewarded with Grand Stand tickets to upcoming Super GT Sepang 2010 taking place on 20 June 2010.

Exciting activities are lined up to provide a mix of mid and highly intense level of challenges. Among them includes negotiating different obstacles on the high ropes more than 30 feet high, and taking orbing to the next level by challenging one’s endurance in the Orb Olympics.
Orbing is an amusing ride where participants are strapped inside a giant inflatable ball and are rolled down a slope, across a terrain or on water! To double the fun, this adventure trip will be hosting a race dubbed the Orb Olympics – the challenge remains a mystery but it is guaranteed to be a tricky ride that will bring out the humour in all.

Other exhilarating activities include shooting arrows at the archery challenge and testing one’s fortitude in the “Fear Factor” challenge. Indeed, a man alone cannot win a battle, so bring your friends to stand a higher chance of forming a stronger team!

Whether you’re looking for an excuse to use some excess adrenaline or to get outdoors to the refreshing fringes of the Hulu Langat forest, here’s a chance to prove your mettle.

Mark your calendar for the Honda Racing Malaysia’s adventure trip happening on 15 May 2010, Saturday, 8.30am – 5.30pm. Adventure fee is at RM120 per pax and includes buffet lunch and drinks.

Log on to here for more details and to register now!

FREED's launch (personal) photos.

As much as I've worked on many different projects (though, I can't really claim I have enough experience just yet), I love launch events the most. I guess it's just the dynamics of being able to watch something come alive 'physically'. Without an event, launching on ATL alone somehow doesn't give you that 'oomph' if you know what I mean. The other two which I love working on is out-of-home and digital media. Impact, yo... impact ;)

From L-R, first row: Uchida-san (DJ), Ando-san (Honda R&D), Florence, Wong, Steph, Jerome (all DU), Shiao Fong (Honda Malaysia), Hosokawa-san, Okubo-san (DJ), Hide-san (DU)
From L-R, second row: Mimi, Cynthia, Toon, Jacq (DU)
From L-R, third row: Lawrence, Nicole, Karmen and Tanabe-san (DU)
The Dentsu-Honda team ;) Do not underestimate girl power... ahem, sorry about that, Lawrence. There's always an exceptional case...

Yea, uh... I was saying, girl power... (and if I get any thinner, I'll be 2D :P)