Friday, August 28, 2009

Proton GPS aka Lokatoo aka MyNavi running Garmin Mobile XT (GMXT) + Malfreemaps.com

The Proton Exora came together with a free GPS.
Map Screen:

After using it once, I didn't think it was that great. The maps were not all that detailed and the driving directions were not that accurate. An example was when the GPS wanted me to drive another 2 km to make a U-turn when there was a roundabout just 100m in front of me.

So..... went on an exhaustive search on the net to find a solution.

Found out that the Proton GPS aka Lokatoo was formerly sold under the MyNavi brand. Not sure what GPS software it runs but the maps are provided by TM. All this sounds good so far but then you are dependent on TM to update the maps and Points of Interest (POI) which doesn't sound so good anymore.

The unit runs on Windows CE 5.0 so after some searching I found out that Garmin Mobile XT (GMXT) could also run on Windows CE. So went to LowYat and got the software installed. After looking at both Malsingmaps.com and Malfreemaps.com I decided to go with Malfreemaps.com as the maps are free and constantly being updated.

So, after much searching and some initial issues with the installation.....


So, to all the Proton GPS owners out there, it is possible to run GMXT which is so much better and has so many, many, many more POI's.

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Proton Exora Review


DOES THE EXORA HAVE ENOUGH POWER? (Can go up Genting ah?)
WHAT IS THE FUEL CONSUMPTION?

Just refueled the Exora for the first time since taking delivery of the car. Filled up 50 liters after 493km. Approximately 10.5 l/100km or RM0.189 per km. Have been driving the car very gently as it is still during the first 1000km break in period and been trying to keep the revs below 3000 rpm for this period.

The biggest question in everyone's mind that is asked by everyone who has come to know that I have bought an Exora is whether the 1.6 liter Campro CPS has enough poke to push the Exora along. I have to say that after driving around for a week, I have been pleasantly surprised and found the power more than sufficient for the style of driving more suited to MPV's rather than if the Exora was a Evora (of the Lotus variety). Driven like a MPV, the power most definitely OK. The gearbox only shifting down another gear when going up a steep incline. Even so, it didn't really struggle up the hills that it encountered.

I am certain after being properly run in, the Campro CPS would loosen up nicely and gain some power in the process. Fuel economy should also come down a little.

Am awaiting the first experience with the Proton service center. Will report on that when the time comes...

Friday, August 21, 2009

Moving the Car Detailing Post to prodetailing.blogspot.com

Have decided to start another blog specifically for car detailing.

Please check it out to follow my detailing adventures.