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Business Economy Motoring

SteelBird’s Market Mastery Continues

The company has produced a staggering 80 lakh helmets in the previous calendar year alone, and the ambitious goal for the current calendar year 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024 is to reach 10 million helmet productions….reports Asian Lite News

Steelbird Hi-Tech, a leader in helmet manufacturing, proudly announces its status as the world’s largest helmet producer, achieving an outstanding sales milestone of 77,99,273 helmets globally. The company’s commitment to innovation, safety, and quality has propelled it to the forefront of the industry.

In addition to the remarkable helmet sales, Steelbird Helmet has successfully sold 3,44,865 Side Boxes, contributing to a total of 81,44,138 units sold worldwide. The group’s revenue has witnessed an impressive surge, reaching 687 crores in the calendar year 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2023.

The accomplishment is attributed to the dedication and hard work of the entire Steelbird team, along with their comprehensive in-house production capabilities. The company has produced a staggering 80 lakh helmets in the previous calendar year alone, and the ambitious goal for the current calendar year 1st January 2024 to 31st December 2024 is to reach 10 million helmet productions.

Rajeev Kapur, the Managing Director of Steelbird Hi-Tech, emphasized the company’s commitment to road safety. He shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding road fatalities in India, citing reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) stating that 300 thousand people die on Indian roads annually. However, Kapur expressed concern that the actual numbers could be much higher due to underreported accidents in regions without adequate traffic police.

“Many states and districts in our country lack proper traffic police, and numerous accidents go unreported. If we check the data with insurance companies, the numbers are much more staggering. Therefore, it is our duty to address this issue urgently, leaving no stone unturned,” stated Rajeev Kapur.

We have been a pioneer in helmet manufacturing, producing everything in-house, including EPS, buckles, stickers, rivets, and more, except for packaging. This comprehensive approach ensures the highest standards of quality and safety in each product.

As the world’s largest helmet producer, Steelbird Helmet remains committed to its mission of promoting road safety and saving lives. The company looks forward to continued success and growth while contributing to the crucial cause of reducing road accidents globally.

With global domination of more than 50 years and the inspiration to protect bike lovers and adventure enthusiasts all over the world, Steelbird Hi-Tech India Ltd. (SBHT) was founded on 13th March 1964. SBHT, a flagship company of Steelbird Group of Industries, ventured into the unknown territory of auto accessory business to manufacture helmets.

From humble beginnings come great achievements. Leaving behind the savagery of partition, Subhash Kapur, a man of exceptional business acumen spearheaded his efforts to turn a small time family business into a multimillion dollar empire with exports spreading across 50 nations like Brazil, Indonesia, Korea, Taiwan, Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, Vietnam, Bahrain, Dubai, Nepal, Colombia, Uruguay and other European countries. SBHT has already embarked on real estate business, entertainment and is also actively involved in organizing motorsports events on a regular basis.

Excellent quality imparts national and international recognition especially when it comes to manufacturing Motor Cycle Helmets with Sweat Resistant Interiors, Pannier Boxes, Helmet Locking Devices (HLD) and Auto Accessories, all manufactured with avant-garde technology. SBHT specializes as an OEM to top-notch clients as Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Royal Enfield. Customers can now buy SBHT products directly via mobile optimized online store.

SBHT has emerged as the oldest and leading manufacturers of Helmets, Pannier Boxes and Auto Accessories in India. It has marked formidable presence across all business verticals, national and international alike. It has PAN India distribution channel together with presence in 2-tier and 3-tier cities too and sells wide variety of products to government agencies like CSD and CPC as well.

In technical collaboration with global giants like Composites, Bieffe and AD Engineering, Italy, SBHT has cutting edge manufacturing facility in all 6 of its plants and the largest one is in Baddi (Himachal Pradesh), near Chandigarh with over one hundred and fifty thousand Sq. ft. of covered area. SBHT has installed capacity of 22000 Helmets per day and 1600 Side Boxes (Pannier Box) per day. To achieve this capacity, SBHT has deployed a fleet of latest Equipments, Injection Moulding Machines, Automatic Robotic Visor Lines, and Balloon Moulding Machines. SBHT has a complete range of 51 Helmet models and 17 Pannier Boxes models, each having 3 to 9 colour variants.

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Business India News Motoring

Hyundai Champions ‘Mobility for All’ at Bharat Expo 2024

Since its inception in 1996, Hyundai Motor India has consistently demonstrated a commitment to India, becoming the first OEM to export ‘Made in India’ vehicles worldwide and holding the position of the largest passenger vehicle exporter from India…reports Asian Lite News

Hyundai Motor India Ltd. showcased its technologically-advanced products at the first ever Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024. Based on the theme ‘Mobility for All’, the Hyundai Motor India Pavilion in Hall No. 6, Pragati Maidan, presented the company’s vision for India and highlighted its commitment to India.

Commenting on Hyundai Motor India’s participation at Bharat Global Mobility Expo 2024, Puneet Anand, AVP and Vertical Head, Corporate Affairs, Hyundai Motor India, said, “We would like to congratulate the Government of India and Ministry of Commerce & Industries for envisioning this unique Bharat Global Mobility Expo 2024.

“It gave us an opportunity to showcase our products & technologies to the audience. As Hyundai Motor India, we take pride in our journey of localization, epitomising the ‘Made in India, for the World’ spirit. Our commitment goes beyond cars; it’s a commitment to India’s engineering prowess and growth.

“Achieving 100 per cent localisation in vital components reflects our dedication to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Our state-of-the-art facilities across the nation, coupled with ongoing investments, underscore our vision for excellence. Hyundai’s journey in India is more than just automobiles; it’s a narrative of progress, community development, and a relentless pursuit of innovation, reflecting our enduring commitment to India’s future.”

Localisation Zone

Localisation has been pivotal in Hyundai Motor India’s journey since its inception. As the foremost exporter of ‘Made in India’ cars globally, Hyundai’s specialised localisation zone exemplifies the extensive utilization of parts from Indian manufacturers, showcasing the nation’s engineering prowess.

In its ongoing commitment to enhancing localisation, Hyundai has achieved 100 per cent localisation in key components such as tires, panoramic sunroof, alloy wheel, and more.

The company is also working towards enhancing localisation ratio for manufacturing vehicles in India, including key car components, ECM-based Inside Rear View Monitor (IRVM), higher grade AGM technology battery, and a wide range of other components.

Reinforcing its commitment towards localisation, a dedicated team has been established to intensify its efforts, particularly for high-volume models, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The zone not only highlights Hyundai’s advanced manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, but also showcases the R&D facility in Hyderabad, corporate office in Gurugram, and the recently acquired Maharashtra facility, firmly establishing Hyundai’s presence on the Indian map.

The comprehensive zone is complemented by a film illustrating Hyundai’s manufacturing excellence, emphasising the company’s dedication to delivering the highest quality vehicles globally.

Since its inception in 1996, Hyundai Motor India has consistently demonstrated a commitment to India, becoming the first OEM to export ‘Made in India’ vehicles worldwide and holding the position of the largest passenger vehicle exporter from India.

Hyundai has been a pioneer in the Indian automobile industry, introducing global technologies and features, and standardizing 6 airbags and 3-point seatbelts across its entire range.

Aligned with Hyundai’s global CSR guideline of ‘CONTINUE,’ the Hyundai Motor India Foundation, initiated in 2006, has undertaken various social initiatives, including Art for Hope, telemedicine clinics, sports labs, Dhyan-Do, Drive for Progress, BeTheBetterGuy, and more, focusing on community development, healthcare, education, vocational training, and promoting safe mobility practices.

In 2023, Hyundai Motor India signed an MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu, committing INR 20,000 Crore over next 10 years for capacity expansion, new products, establishing a battery pack assembly facility, and improving charging infrastructure.

In 2024, an additional commitment of Rs 6,180 crore was declared by the company, including Rs 180 crore towards ‘Hydrogen Valley Innovation Hub’ in collaboration with IIT Madras.

Additionally, the company has signed an MoU with the State of Maharashtra for a long-term investment of Rs 6,000 crore for infrastructure upgradation and capacity expansion for its 1 million capacity goal. These endeavours underscore Hyundai Motor India’s enduring commitment to India, paving the way for its sustained success in the country.

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-Top News Motoring UAE News

Rare automobiles to steal the show Classic Car Auction

The auction, which is slated to take place during the inaugural Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, will present a diverse selection…reports Asian Lite News

Emirates Auction, which organises and runs public and electronic auctions serving the entire Middle East, is revving up to launch its first-ever online auction for classic vintage automobiles. The event, open from February 1 to 5 and organised in cooperation with the Sharjah Old Cars Club, will auction off over 40 rare and valuable big-brand automobiles.

The auction, which is slated to take place during the inaugural Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, will present a diverse selection including one-of-a-kind vintage automobiles, four-wheel vehicles, and classic cars, in addition to historically significant models. Vintage car enthusiasts can participate in the auction through the Emirates Auction website and smart applications, or visit the festival to get a glimpse of the automobiles on the floor and learn about their specifications.

Saeed Mohammed Bin Ashour, Executive Director of the Sharjah Old Cars Club, said the collaboration with Emirates Auction to launch its first-ever electronic auction for vintage automobiles mirrors the club’s efforts to expand its sphere of strategic partnerships with sector experts and stakeholders. The club aims to unite efforts in a way that helps present the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE as a global destination for classic cars. The online auction, he said, will bring in added value for the Festival, augmenting its successes by giving everyone the opportunity to acquire classic and old vehicles through the world’s most advanced and transparent bidding systems, which adhere to the highest standards of quality, professionalism, and reliability.

Omar Matar Almannaei, Executive Director of Emirates Auction, said the UAE’s classic cars sector is becoming increasingly popular among vintage vehicle enthusiasts of different nationalities. “By organising this online auction for the first time, we aim to keep in step with this growth and provide a special new experience for classic and vintage car-lovers, allowing them to purchase these vehicles easily and smoothly.”

Noting his pleasure in cooperating with the Sharjah Old Cars Club, Almannaei said: “The auction is expected to witness an exceptional turnout and stiff competition among classic car collectors, especially given the vast selection of rare and bespoke vehicles. Buyers will have access to the best prices and can perform on-site vehicle inspections by visiting the Festival and taking a look at the car’s full technical report, which includes specifications, history, and significance.”

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Business Motoring UAE News

Juma Al Majid: 2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year

“The Sharjah facility, introduced in 2018, meets GDSI standards and is UAE’s largest Hyundai branch.”….reports Asian Lite News

Juma Al Majid Est., the exclusive distributor of Hyundai in the UAE, was recognized among Hyundai Motor Company’s top 100 global dealers, with the Sharjah branch being named 2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year’ by Hyundai Middle East. This esteemed honor, conferred on 22 August, underscores Juma Al Majid Est.’s unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences and setting industry benchmarks.

The state-of-the-art facility, located in Sharjah and ceremoniously introduced in 2018 to meet the latest GDSI (Global dealership space identity) standards, is recognized as the largest Hyundai branch in the UAE. Encompassing an estimated 13,000 square meters of constructed space and featuring 100 vehicle bays, it is a remarkable testament to modern facilities.

Commenting on the ceremony, Mr. Bryan Park, Head of Hyundai Middle East & Africa HQ, said: “We are immensely proud of Hyundai UAE’s Sharjah branch for being named ‘2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year.’ As we look forward, we remain dedicated to maintaining our market leadership and consistently raising the bar in customer satisfaction and operational excellence. Our journey is driven by a profound desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and together, with Hyundai UAE and Juma Al Majid Est., we will continue to add value to our customers’ lives and shape the future of automotive excellence.”

Mr. Suliman Al Zaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, said: “At Hyundai UAE, our commitment to our customers is the cornerstone of our success, and this ‘2023 Hyundai Dealer of The Year’ award further motivates us to continue our journey of exceeding customer expectations and setting new industry standards. Our dedication is reflected in the launch of multiple corporate identity facilities, each thoughtfully designed to elevate the customer experience; every interaction with our brand is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to excellence. As part of the Juma Al Majid Est. Group, we remain steadfastly focused on our overarching mission to deliver world-class experiences at every customer journey touchpoint.”

This is the inaugural launch of the ‘Dealer of The Year’ (DOTY) program by Hyundai Motor Company, marking a historic milestone for Hyundai dealerships worldwide. Among a distinguished roster of dealerships, Hyundai UAE’s Sharjah branch proudly secured a place in the select group of 100 recipients of this prestigious award. This achievement highlights the branch’s state-of-the-art facility, encompassing a showroom and service parts center, perfectly aligned with Hyundai’s global corporate identity.

Juma Al Majid Est. extends its sincere appreciation to its valued customers, partners, and stakeholders whose continued support has been instrumental in achieving this remarkable milestone.

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Business Motoring Tech Lite

Jaguar F-PACE: The Epitome of Luxury, Performance, and Safety

These cutting-edge technologies work in harmony to guarantee not only the well-being of all passengers but also to provide a sense of security and confidence during every journey…reports Asian Lite News

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury SUVs, the Jaguar F-PACE has solidified its position as a trailblazer, combining sophistication, agility, and cutting-edge technology. Drawing inspiration from Jaguar’s storied racing history, the F-PACE stands as a testament to the brand’s unyielding dedication to engineering brilliance and innovative design.

Muscat, Oman – Mr. Mohsin Hani Al Bahrani, CEO of MHD ACERE, expressed his admiration for the enduring allure of the Jaguar F-PACE, declaring, “The Jaguar F-PACE is more than just an automobile; it’s a captivating experience. Its fusion of design, performance, and technology deeply resonates with our discerning clientele, reflecting their aspirations and lifestyles. At MHD ACERE, we take great pride in our association with a brand that consistently sets the gold standard in automotive luxury.”

The F-PACE’s exterior is a study in elegance, featuring sleek lines, dynamic proportions, and the iconic Jaguar grille, ensuring a commanding presence on the road. A range of robust engine options guarantees an exhilarating driving experience, complemented by dynamic handling and responsive steering for precise control.

Inside the cabin, the F-PACE offers a harmonious fusion of opulence and comfort, boasting premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge features. The F-PACE SVR, powered by a 5.0-liter V8 Supercharged Petrol engine, generates an impressive 700Nm of torque, promising a thrilling ride. In contrast, the F-PACE R-DYNAMIC boasts a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Turbocharged Petrol engine, striking the perfect balance between power and efficiency. Both models feature the Pivi Pro infotainment system with an 11.4″ touchscreen, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment. The Clear Sight interior rearview mirror and the 3D Surround Camera enhance the driving experience, providing drivers with a clear view of their surroundings.

Safety remains paramount in the F-PACE, equipped with state-of-the-art safety features and driver-assistance systems, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Whether on a daily commute or an adventurous road trip, the F-PACE exemplifies Jaguar’s commitment to luxury, performance, and safety.

With over 15,000 units sold in the past year, the Jaguar F-PACE has not only made a mark but continues to redefine the standards for luxury SUVs, captivating automotive enthusiasts and luxury aficionados worldwide.

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Business Motoring Tech Lite

Hyundai Exter SUV launched In India

The Exter SUV, already unveiled digitally by Hyundai, will be a direct rival to the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Suzuki Ignis….reports Asian Lite News

Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) on Monday launched Hyundai Exter in what is billed as India’s most affordable SUV with introductory prices start from Rs 6 lakh and go up to Rs 10 lakh for the top-spec trim (all prices ex-showroom, India).

The Exter SUV, already unveiled digitally by Hyundai, will be a direct rival to the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Suzuki Ignis.

For its price, it will also see competition from lower variants of the Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger in the small SUV segment.

Despite its small proportions, the Exter comes packed with several features, some of them being segment-first.

The bookings for the SUV have already started.

Designed to redefine benchmark in its segment. Hyundai Exter has been developed to reflect the tenets of unique exteriors, spacious interiors, advanced safety & technology and exceptional performance.

At the launch, HMIL’s MD & CEO Unsoo Kim said: “Hyundai Motor India has always created new benchmarks in the industry with its revolutionary products & technologies. Yet again, with Exter, we are proud to introduce an SUV that embodies Hyundai’s commitment to innovative design, intelligent technology and exceptional performance.”

As per the company, Exter features a progressive and unique SUV design showcasing Hyundai’s design identity of ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ that is sure to turn heads on the road with its striking and innovative exterior design, characterised by a modern front, dynamic side and sporty rear design.

Eexter reflects the company’s vision to develop an SUV that boasts advanced technology, Hyundai’s SUV DNA and robust driving capability, it said.

The SUV also boasts of segment best wheelbase that encapsulates the lavishness of spacious interiors for a capacious mobility experience, while establishing a new segment benchmark with over 40 advanced safety features & 26 standard safety features across all trims.

It sets a new standard with 6 Airbags that will be offered across all trims as regular fitment, the company said.

Available with 3 powertrain options – 1.2 l Kappa petrol engine (E20 Fuel Ready) with choice of 5-speed MT & Smart Auto AMT and 1.2 l Bi-fuel Kappa petrol and CNG with 5-speed MT, it is available in 6 monotone and 3 dual tone exterior colour options including 2 new & exclusive colours – Ranger Khaki, and Cosmic Blue which is also available with dual tone colour options. The interiors are available in three colours – Light Sage, Cosmic Blue, and Silver.

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Motoring Sport Sports

Max Verstappen wins F1 Canadian GP

Behind Verstappen, Alonso finished second for Aston Martin after a good overtaking move on Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who took third…reports Asian Lite News

Max Verstappen moved level with Ayrton Senna’s tally of 41 Grand Prix wins after victory in Sunday’s Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, here.

Starting from pole position after a brilliant performance in Saturday’s wet qualifying session, Verstappen held off the threat of Fernando Alonso at the start, and never looked threatened as he managed the gap to those behind him throughout the race to take Red Bull’s 100th Grand Prix win.

“Very happy right now. It was not a very straightforward race, as the tyres were not getting into their window. It was very cold compared to Friday, but we made it work and to win the 100th GP for the team is pretty incredible,” said Verstappen afterwards.

Behind Verstappen, Alonso finished second for Aston Martin after a good overtaking move on Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton, who took third.

The Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz recovered from a poor qualifying session to finish fourth and fifth, ahead of the second Red Bull of Sergio Perez, who also notched the bonus point for fastest lap, though the Mexican may be concerned at yet another weekend where he was off the pace of his illustrious teammate, Xinhua reported.

Alex Albon continued his good form from Saturday’s qualifying to finish in an excellent seventh place, scoring Williams’ best result in almost two years after withstanding heavy pressure from the cars behind him.

Esteban Ocon took eighth for Alpine, with Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll taking ninth place on the line from Valtteri Bottas, who rounded out the points for Alfa Romeo.

The two retirees were Logan Sargeant, who pulled off on Lap 6 with an engine issue, and George Russell, who retired with brake issues after having clouted the wall earlier in the race.

Verstappen’s win puts him on 195 points and gives him a 69-point advantage over second-placed Perez, with no driver in F1 history ever having overhauled such a lead. Alonso stays third with 117 points.

In the Constructors’ Championship, Red Bull’s lead now stands at 321 points, with the drinks-backed outfit having won all eight races so far this season. Mercedes are second on 167 points, with Aston Martin third on 154.

The ninth round of the 2023 F1 World Championship is the Austrian Grand Prix at the Red Bull Ring on July 2.

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Business Motoring Tech Lite

Kia to launch all-electric EV9 SUV

The two-wheel-drive EV9 comes with a 99.8 kilowatt-hour battery and can travel 501 kms on a single charge….reports Asian Lite News

Kia, South Korea’s second-biggest carmaker, said on Sunday it will launch its all-electric EV9 flagship SUV in the domestic market this week as part of its electrification efforts.

The three-row seater is Kia’s second model equipped with Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated electric vehicle platform, called E-GMP, after the EV6 SUV launched in 2021.

The two-wheel-drive EV9 comes with a 99.8 kilowatt-hour battery and can travel 501 kms on a single charge. An all-wheel-drive model is also available, the company said in a statement.

The model — set to be launched on Monday — is priced at 73 million won-82 million won ($57,000-$64,000), depending on options.

Kia plans to gradually launch the EV9 in Europe, the United States and other markets in the second half, reports Yonhap news agency.

Kia plans to produce about 100,000 units a year of the new model at the Kia Autoland Gwangmyeong plant, just south of Seoul, for global sales.

The maker of K5 sedans and Sorento SUVs aims to sell 1 million EVs in 2026 and gradually fill its EV lineup with 15 models by 2027.

The company plans to add the EV9 GT-line and the performance EV9 GT models to beef up its EV lineup in the third quarter. The GT-line model adopts the design of the performance GT model to meet diverse customer demands.

It will introduce Level 3 autonomous driving technology through the Highway Driving Pilot programme in the GT-line model.

A Level 3 car allows lane changes and other autonomous driving functions to work without intervention by the driver. At Level 4, a vehicle can drive itself under limited conditions and will not operate if all required conditions are not satisfied. At Level 5, a vehicle’s automated driving features can drive under any conditions.

The EV9 has been developed under Kia’s new design philosophy, “Opposites United,” which embodies its shifting focus toward electrification.

It comes with a sleek and bold exterior design, and its flat-floor EV architecture offers an interior space with third-row seating and enhanced comfort.

The Kia Connect Store enables customers to keep their EV9 constantly updated by upgrading the SUV’s digital features and services without taking the vehicle to a dealership, it said.

With the swivel seat option, the second-row seats swivel 180 degrees to allow conversations with passengers in the third row.

It also boasts numerous safety features, such as blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, navigation-based smart cruise control and parking collision-avoidance assist systems.

This year, the company set a sales goal of 3.2 million units, higher than the 2.9 million units it sold last year.

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Africa News Business Motoring

Kia sets eyes on Africa

In collaboration with its esteemed partner – Rana Motors – Kia’s assembly plant in Amasaman, Ghana is a testament to the strong partnership between Korea and Ghana, combining Korean Engineering Technology with Ghanaian dedication…reports Asian Lite News

Kia Corporation’s official distributor in Ghana “Rana Motors” has officially launched its state-of-the-art assembly plant in Ghana, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy in the African continent. Focused on Western Africa, this strategic move positions Kia as a key player in the region’s automotive industry.

The launch event took place on May 2 and was attended by H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, Hon. Michael Okyere Baafi, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry of Ghana, Hon. Henry Quartey, Regional Minister of Ghana, and other key leaders from the country.

Kia unveils new company logo, brand slogan. (Photo Credit: Twitter/@Kia_Worldwide)

In collaboration with its esteemed partner – Rana Motors – Kia’s assembly plant in Amasaman, Ghana is a testament to the strong partnership between Korea and Ghana, combining Korean Engineering Technology with Ghanaian dedication, capabilities, and passion. The facility, equipped with the latest technology and staffed by a highly skilled team of engineers and technicians, meets Kia’s rigorous international standards to deliver only the highest quality vehicles to African consumers.

Yaser Shabsogh, Chief Operating Officer, Regional HQ, Middle East & Africa, Kia stated: “This facility not only addresses the present needs of Ghanaian customers but also proactively anticipates their future requirements. Our goal is to fulfill the demands not only within Ghana but potentially also across West Africa. We are excited about the opportunities that this expansion will bring.”

Essam Odaymat, CEO of Rana Motors, expressed the assembly plant’s importance in fostering a stronger bond between Ghana and the Republic of Korea, stating, “We humbly take pride in our role of enhancing the relationship between Ghana and the Republic of Korea by promoting excellence.”

In line with the brand’s vision to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider, the assembly plant addresses critical global challenges such as water shortage and energy consumption. Kia and Rana Motors have implemented a sustainable water approach featuring a stormwater harvesting system, enabling the capture and reuse of water runoff for daily factory operations.

Furthermore, the factory’s sustainable energy approach includes natural light, ventilation systems, and heat insulation to reduce energy consumption. In the project’s next phase, solar panels will be installed on the factory roof, enabling the facility to generate its energy sustainably, covering all its energy consumption.

The assembly plant proudly stands as the largest in Ghana and the region, assembling six vehicle models and will expand to ten models in the next few months. Spread out over a substantial 65,000 square meters of land, the Amasaman facility has a building area of 16,000 square meters, with over 1,000 square meters of living area. In keeping with its proportions, the initial operational capacity of the plant is 35,000 vehicles, with plans for expansion to 70,000 vehicles. Due to the impressive size of the factory, approximately 6,000 tons of cement and 3,500 tons of iron and steel were used in the construction.

Currently, six Kia models are being produced – Kia Cerato, Kia K5, Kia Sonet, Kia Seltos, Kia Sportage, and Kia Sorento – and this portfolio will expand to ten models soon including the K2700, K3000, Carens, and Picanto. With the introduction of the largest regional assembly plant, Kia and Rana Motors have solidified their position as one of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers.

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Business Motoring UAE News

All new Honda ZR-V arrives in UAE

The ZR-V perfectly embodies Honda’s ‘Advanced and Sporty’ brand ambition, blending premium design, state-of-the-art technology and engaging driving characteristics…reports Asian Lite News

Al-Futtaim Trading Enterprises launches the all-new Honda ZR-V, a head turning compact SUV that offers the perfect blend of sophisticated styling, practicality, and a purposeful driving experience. Lining up between HR-V and CR-V, the Honda ZR-V is aimed at young, image conscious buyers who seek a stylish, powerful, and fun to drive vehicle that can seamlessly integrate into their life. The ZR-V perfectly embodies Honda’s ‘Advanced and Sporty’ brand ambition, blending premium design, state-of-the-art technology and engaging driving characteristics.

ZR-V is a charismatic and energetic SUV that combines the confidence of an SUV and the elegance of a coupé.  A purposeful stance and a bold front face provide a strong road presence that perfectly complements its dynamic performance, whilst slimline, full LED, headlights and gloss black grille create a sophisticated appearance, which continues along the side of the vehicle through to the sleek horizontal LED rear combination lights that neatly integrate into the tailgate. The interior of ZR-V is similarly class leading, with high quality, soft-touch materials and detailed finishing, combined with stylish lighting throughout the cabin to create a premium ambience.

Safety is a key priority for Honda, with all grades of the new ZR-V equipped with Honda SENSINGTM driver assistance which includes features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Collision Mitigation Braking System to help reduce the risk of an accident, whilst the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure and standard 8 airbags help protect the driver and passengers in the event of a collision.

Honda ZR-V is powered by a turbo charged 1.5L i-VTEC DOHC engine that provides 180hp and 240Nm of torque, and fuel efficiency of up to 16.5km/Litre, giving a potential range of 940km from a full tank of gas. Whether you’re accelerating from standstill or passing at speed, the turbocharged engine delivers a forceful response. It’s mated to the latest generation of continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is tuned for a more natural response with early downshifts during braking for more engaging driving experience.

Two grades of ZR-V will be available. With a starting price of AED 119,900, the highly equipped LX model includes dual-zone Automatic Climate Control with rear AC vents, front and rear parking sensors, a 10.2” TFT Full Digital Driver Information Display and a 9” touchscreen that supports both Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay, and a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad. The top-of-the-line EX, priced at AED 129,900 adds a 12-speaker Bose CenterPoint surround audio system, premium leather seats with 8-way power adjustment, a power-operated tailgate, and the Multiview 360-degree camera system and power tailgate with kick-sensor and walk-away close.

The ZR-V is available to purchase now in seven exterior colours, five of which debut on this model (Platinum Gray, Premium Crystal Garnet, Premium Crystal Blue,  Midnight Blue Beam and Nordic Forest),  interior colour options include Black or Grayage Fabric on LX or Grayage or Maroon Leather on EX.

Customers can experience the ZR-V in person at Honda Showrooms across the UAE in Dubai Festival City, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Al Ain and Abu Dhabi Umm Al Nar.

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