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Kia Al Jabr announce participation in Riyadh Motor Show

The all-new Kia Sportage will be on display at AutoVille Festival in Riyadh from 8th – 14th January 2022…reports Asian Lite News

Kia Al Jabr announced its participation in the Riyadh Motor Show. Showcasing the new Kia Sportage 2022 at the Saudi International Festival of Motoring, the first and the largest interactive event of its kind in the region.

The stunning all-new 2022 Sportage, an SUV that has been carefully curated to inspire customers with its upgraded exterior and interior design, will be on display at the AutoVille Festival in Riyadh from 8th – 14th January 2022.

The reinvented exterior, challenges design norms and moves the Sportage identity into the next generation. Angular lines outline the refined body, amplifying dramatic style tensions. At the same time, sleek but  bold surfaces join forces with intricate graphics to give the SUV a dynamic and assertive road presence. On the inside, a space has been created that is truly state-of-the-art, fusing high-tech sensibilities into contemporary style.

“We are excited to debut the new Kia Sportage 2022 in the region at the AutoVille Festival today. With the visible upgrades to both the exterior and interior of the vehicle, it is one of our most exciting regional debut yet, and to have it be a part of the first and largest interactive event of its kind in the region is truly an honor.” Commented Yaser Shabsogh, Chief Operating Officer, Regional HQs, Middle East & Africa, Kia.

“Being part of the AutoVille Festival in Riyadh is an exciting event to kick-off the new year. The all-new Sportage will be launched with a comprehensive range of powerful, responsive and efficient powertrains, and it is great to be able to showcase this to the region.” Commented Abdulsalam Aljabr, Managing Director of AlJabr Company.

ALSO READ: Kia partners with Rafa Nadal Academy in Kuwait

New benchmark for exterior SUV design

The front of the all-new Sportage creates an instant impact and thought-provoking design statement with a detailed-oriented black grille graphic stretching across the width of the face. The overall exterior embodies a bold natural emotion, each line created with the spontaneity of a single movement.

At first glance, the design expresses pure impact. The clean muscular surfaces combined with aggressive powerful graphics, gives the car a dynamic and assertive presence on the road. The design challenges the norms with unexpected solutions, creating a modern impression while exuding confidence and quality.

Interior design redefined

The interior of the 2022 Sportage embodies high-tech curved display with a unique interior layout. The simplified switch layout and innovative asymmetrical console provides drivers with a sportier and more driver-oriented design. The interior cabin includes ambient mood lighting and semi-reflective linear chrome garnish, which heightens the interior’s luxuriousness and sophistication.

The flagship SUV sells about 30,000 units annually in the region and is the ideal vehicle for varying terrains of the United Arab Emirates.

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News World World News

Honda Celebrates Incredible 2021 Worldwide Racing Season

Honda drivers claim both FIA Formula One and NTT INDYCAR SERIES championships for the first time in the same year…reports Asian Lite News

Honda is celebrating its most successful season of racing worldwide, highlighted by its drivers claiming both the FIA Formula One and NTT INDYCAR SERIES championships.  This marks the first time Honda-powered drivers have won these titles in the same season – and the first time for any racing engine firm in nearly 40 years.

The titles won by Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen in Formula One and Chip Ganassi Racing’s Alex Palou in INDYCAR competition are just two of the championships and major race victories recorded by Honda this year, including:

Honda Celebrates Incredible 2021 Worldwide Racing Season
  • Honda’s 10th INDYCAR Manufacturers’ Championship, the fourth consecutive title for the company
  • Honda’s 14th Indianapolis 500 win, and a record-tying fourth Indy victory, for Meyer Shank Racing’s Helio Castroneves; with Chip Ganassi Racing’s Scott Dixon claiming pole
  • Manufacturer, Driver and Team IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup championship for Acura, Wayne Taylor Racing and drivers Filipe Albuquerque, Ricky Taylor and Alexander Rossi
  • Eleven wins in Formula One competition, including the prestigious Grand Prix of Monaco for eventual champion Verstappen
  • Victory for the Honda Ridgeline Race Truck in November’s Baja 1000, with drivers Jeff Proctor, Rossi, Richard Glaszczak and Steve Hengeveld
  • Acura’s first overall Rolex 24 at Daytona victory with Wayne Taylor Racing
  • Ten INDYCAR wins in 2021, for a total of 262 victories in CART, IRL and INDYCAR competition   

“It’s been an incredible season from start to finish,” said David Salters, president and technical director of Honda Performance Development, the North American motorsports arm for Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports. “We began the season with an historic win for Acura at the Rolex 24 at Daytona; and we finished it with the FIA Formula One Drivers World Championship; plus the Indianapolis 500, INDYCAR titles and Baja 1000. It’s a credit to our awesome teams, brilliant drivers, magnificent HPD associates and the inspiring women and men involved in Honda’s worldwide racing programs. Thank you Honda, for supporting our challenging spirit and providing joy to millions of race fans worldwide.”

Racing is ingrained in the corporate culture of Honda, in a way unlike any other automotive manufacturer.  A former racer himself, founder Soichiro Honda believed in competition at the highest levels as a means of improving his company, its people and products.

ALSO READ: Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

More than 55 years later, Honda continues to view racing as an ideal training ground for engineers and designers.  The pressures of racing challenge them, forcing them to find new solutions to problems as they arise.  They also demand that you be ready on time – for the new season, for qualifying, for the race.  If you can’t respond quickly and correctly, you’ll be left behind. 

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-Top News Arab News UAE News

Second generation of ‘Masar Cars’ launched

Second generation of 'Masar Cars' launched

The launch of the cars will support the road management system and the country’s efforts to improve road traffic safety…reports Asian Lite News

Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, has launched the second generation of “Masar Cars”, which are equipped with smart systems for monitoring roads, road quality and security requirements.

Abdul Rahman Al Mahmoud, Director of the Federal Roads Assets Department, Khamis Al Shehiari, Head of the Roads Development and Traffic Safety Department, Sogha Al Samahi and Habiba Aflatoun, briefed Al Mazrouei about the cars, which will help advance the UAE’s road system and ensure traffic safety.

Second generation of ‘Masar Cars’ launched

He also highlighted the future role of these cars in achieving the country’s goal of realising the highest levels of road traffic safety and reducing accidents and achieving the UAE Centennial 2071.

The launch of the cars will support the road management system and the country’s efforts to improve road traffic safety, Al Mazrouei said. The project is in line with the ministry’s approach to utilising advanced technologies and the latest innovations, he added.

ALSO READ: Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

Hassan Mohammed Juma Al Mansoori, Under-Secretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry, said the UAE’s road sector had witnessed ongoing developments over many years, which has helped improve traffic safety. This has resulted in the UAE securing top global rankings in terms of road quality in global competitiveness reports.

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News World World News

LEXUS UNVEILS ON AT DESIGN MIAMI 2021

LEXUS UNVEILS ON AT DESIGN MIAMI 2021

The installation is punctuated by electrification, technology, and bespoke design…reports Asian Lite News

Lexus unveiled ON/ at Design Miami/, presenting a vision by Germane Barnes and his team at the University of Miami that is inspired by the power and potential of Lexus’s LF-Z Electrified Concept car, which introduces new electrification principals to the brand’s ethos.

LEXUS UNVEILS ON AT DESIGN MIAMI 2021

The immersive installation embodies the human-centered, future-oriented approach to design and craftsmanship that the automotive brand and Barnes share, its title alluding to an on/off switch as a vision of a carbon-neutral future powered by electric technology. ON/ creates an environment that is designed to engage viewers of all ages, providing an experience that is both visually dynamic and interactive while offering an inviting space to recharge and reflect.

The installation is centered around a precisely-to-scale, three-dimensional sculptural rendition of the LF-Z Electrified Concept car rendered in steel and illuminated with embedded LED lighting; the frame of the car glows and is suspended just above the ground, a vision of a more sustainable future coming into focus. Two swings anchor the display, each suspended within illuminated arches in a nod to the classical architecture that is both foundational to the design of civic infrastructure and central to the University of Miami’s curriculum, alluding to a gateway between our present and the possibilities of the future.  This arch is echoed in furniture with embedded LED lighting designed by Barnes and his team specifically for the installation, providing discrete areas for rest, repose, and recharging — reflecting the brand’s commitment to the principle of omotenashi (exceptional hospitality).

The entire installation is unified by a unique lighting scheme, designed to enable engagement from users around the world via an interactive virtual model unveiled online alongside the physical display.  Participants are invited to create their own lighting designs for the display, altering the color of various features including the walls, car, swings, and furniture. Barnes and his team will select a series of the user-generated designs to showcase onsite, spotlighting the creative vision of entries from around the world.

GERMANE BARNES, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE: “As a global brand with commitment to the Japanese design principles of takumi (expert craftsmanship) and omotenashi (exceptional hospitality) and a mission to build towards a carbon-neutral future, Lexus embodies elements that are essential markers of high-quality design for today, while also echoing my personal values.  Designing for a future that is collaborative, sustainable, equitable, and prioritizes the unique experiences of individuals is both a driving force of my practice and my work with students here at the University of Miami.  As Design Miami/ opens, we’re excited to see how the public engages with the installation, both in-person and online, and makes our vision for the future their own.”

This concept reflects a commitment to next-generation design and was developed by Germane Barnes, Principal Architect at Studio Barnes, Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Architecture and Director of the CHIL Lab, in close coordination with his team at the University and Studio.  The core project team included students Isabella Adelsohn, Mahlia Jenkins, and Andrea Martinez of the School of Architecture at the University of Miami, along with Indrit Alushani, Lecturer and RAD Lab Manager and Rodolphe el-Khoury, Dean of the University of Miami School of Architecture.

“We’re thrilled to bring this incredible project from Germane Barnes and the University of Miami to Design Miami/ in our fourth year of partnership with the fair,” commented Brian Bolain, Lexus’ global head of marketing. “As we look towards next generation design, this project has given us a chance to highlight Lexus’ commitment to electrification while working closely with the students at UMiami who are incredibly talented and truly represent the future of design and innovation.”

ALSO READ: Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

Returning as automotive partner for its fourth year at Design Miami/, Lexus will present another installment of its long standing Lexus Art & Innovation series with Whitewall from November 30-December 1. Speakers include Dror Benshetrit, Harry Nuriev, Thomas Coldefy, Sarah Meyhoas, Gretchen Andrew, Refik Anadol, Lee Quinones, Yves Béhar, Cathy Leff, Rudy el-Khoury, Brian Bolain, Kevin Hunter; alongside moderators Tamara Warren, Alessandro Possati, Katy Donoghue, and Laurent Moïsi, to name a few, in addition to Germane Barnes who will participate on the panels Fertile Ground: Shaping the Next Generation of Designs on Tuesday November 30 at 4:30PM and Electrification and Beyond: How Tech is Shaping What Comes Next on Wednesday December 1 at 11:30AM. Design Miami/ runs from December 1 through December 5 online and in-person at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

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Arab News Dubai UAE News

First fully electric Volvo cars launched in UAE

First fully electric Volvo cars launched in UAE

The full-electric XC40 BEV compact SUV was unveiled at the newly launched Volvo Studio located in Dubai Festival Plaza, Jebel Ali…reports Asian Lite News

Al-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, the official distributor of Volvo Cars in the UAE, has unveiled its first fully electric car to the Middle East, the XC40 BEV, a compact SUV designed for modern urban living. The launch comes as another milestone in Volvo’s journey to a zero-emission future and as part of its overarching commitment to sustainability by only selling electric vehicles by 2030.

First fully electric Volvo cars launched in UAE

Increasing the use of sustainable materials is just one way the XC40 Recharge helps reduce its environmental impact. For example, the interior carpeting is made entirely from recycled plastic. Over 200,000km, an XC40 Recharge twin has a lower carbon impact than a petrol-powered XC40 T5, irrespective of the charging electricity mix (global, EU or wind). The battery has a nominal capacity of 78 kWh. A fully charged battery gives drivers a projected range of up to 418km  in mixed driving before it needs a recharge.

The new car was revealed at the recently-launched Volvo Studio’, a first of its kind shopping experience in the region highlighting the automotive brand’s commitment to driving change in the industry. The Volvo Studio modernizes the car buying experience, providing customers with an enhanced shopping opportunity complete with tailored experiences, activations, and the highest quality of service, synonymous with the automotive powerhouse.

OSCAR RIVOLI, MANAGING DIRECTOR , TRADING ENTERPRISES: “Al-Futtaim Automotive provides innovative mobility solutions and services that our customers want and deserve to keep the UAE moving towards building a more sustainable future of mobility. In line with Expo2020sustainability pillar and our electrification strategy, we are proud to be the first market in the GCC to launch the zero emission all-electric XC40 Recharge. The future of Volvo Cars is electric, and the launch of this model is the first in a dedication to a zero-emission future. We will continue to support and promote Volvo’s electrification strategy and its overarching commitment to sustainability by selling only electric vehicles by 2030.”

“Al-Futtaim’s inherent customer-centric approach drives us to continuously diverse our offering to satisfy the changing consumer demands. We’re seeing significant growth in demand for BEV technology and smaller compact SUVs as consumers are starting to adopt and embrace the new technology. Electrified cars remain highly desirable for individuals who appreciate top technology and want to integrate a more eco-conscious driving practice in their lifestyle. We believe that the demand for hybrid vehicles will continue to grow in the years to come as more and more people realize the benefits of hybrid mobility. This demand brings an opportunity for automotive manufacturers and dealerships to embrace the UAE’s vision and be a driver of change to support this vision,” he added.

Globally, Volvo is also witnessing increased sales of electrified cars. The share of cars with a fully electric or plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Recharge models, amounted to 25.5 per cent of all cars being sold globally for the first 10 months to October 31. For the month of October, the share of Recharge BEV cars accounted for 31.5 per cent of total sales, as the number of electrified vehicles continues to rise globally.

ALSO READ: Volvo Group plans to increase headcount

As part of Volvo’s pioneering shift in how and where the automotive industry is engaging customers and with the goal of transforming the traditional retail model, the XC40 BEV will be available to buy online. This is aligned to Al-Futtaim’s Automotive’ s omnichannel strategy to challenge the conventional car buying experience and accelerate online sales.

Volvo Cars is the official partner of the Swedish Pavilion at Expo 2020. Volvo Studio is located in Dubai Festival Plaza, Jebel Ali, open daily from 10 am to 10 pm offering customers a world first experience when purchasing a car.

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News World

Bentley Motors introduces Flying Spur Mulliner edition

Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner

Flying Spur Mulliner on display at #NoFilterDXB Motor Show from 24th – 27th November 2021…reports Asian Lite News

Bentley Motors today introduces the new Flying Spur Mulliner edition – the ultimate in four-door luxury Grand Touring – to the Middle East. Taking its place as the flagship of the Bentley range, the new Flying Spur Mulliner will appeal to customers who desire an even greater focus on bespoke and elegant details.

Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner

Revealed to the Middle East at the first ever at the #NoFilterDXB Motor Show event in Dubai (24-27 November), the elegantly appointed sedan sits at the pinnacle of the Flying Spur family, combining the very finest in modern craftsmanship and breath-taking luxury.

The Flying Spur model itself has generated significant demand among customers since going on sale in the region – writing a new chapter in the history of Bentley four-door Grand Touring. The region has contributed to the delivery of over 40,000 Flying Spurs over the last 15 years. The new addition of the Mulliner edition will continue this story of success.

As the most luxurious Flying Spur to date, the Mulliner edition has been created and developed by Bentley’s bespoke commissioning division, designed, engineered and handcrafted in Great Britain.

RICHARD LEOPOLD, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, UK, AFRICA, MIDDLE EAST AND INDIA: Richard Leopold, Regional Director for UK, Middle East, Africa and India; “The overwhelming success of the Flying Spur globally and in this region is one of Bentley’s true accolades. We are thrilled to bring the Mulliner edition of what is hailed as the best luxury sedan in the world to this region – a model we believe is the pinnacle of the Bentley range.”

The Flying Spur Mulliner is differentiated from the rest of the range through a subtle makeover and a number of bespoke features. The exterior features exclusive Mulliner 22-inch wheels, in a grey painted and polished finish, with self-levelling wheel caps that remain upright as the wheels rotate.  A “Double Diamond” front grille and chrome front lower grille are matched by bespoke Mulliner branded wing vents and Satin Silver painted mirror caps. The iconic Bentley Flying B is electronically deployed and illuminated, while the Flying Spur Mulliner also features jewel fuel and oil caps.

Mulliner illuminated outer treadplates and deep-pile Mulliner overmats welcome passengers inside the ultimate Flying Spur cabin. The sumptuously trimmed cockpit is complemented by accent colour piping and unique Mulliner embroidery to the hand-stitched seats.

An example of one of the curated interiors – Ascot – is a combination of Imperial Blue leather to the instrument panel, door trims and headlining while a light tan leather called Camel, emphasises the style of the seats. White micro-piping, embroidery and accent line combines a third colour into the unique Mulliner interior. Further combinations are available to offer elegant and bolder designs.

Bentley Flying Spur Mulliner

The Mulliner Driving Specification is fitted as standard, bringing the “Diamond-in-Diamond” quilting to the seats, and three-dimensional leather to the doors. Contrast seat piping matches the accent that surrounds the occupants from the centre console, around the instrument panel and finishes beneath the door waistrail, highlighting the Bentley B chrome inlays.

Modern craftsmanship and breath-taking luxury combine in the diamond milled technical finish that is applied to the centre and rear consoles. The centrepiece feature on the dashboard alongside chrome bullseye vents is a stunning, brushed silver Mulliner clock.

ALSO READ: Bentley celebrates centenary of first win

The classic Bentley theme continues in the LED driver’s instrument panel, with stylish new and exclusive Mulliner graphics. The now famous Bentley Rotating Display, sports pedals, heated duo-tone 3-spoke steering wheel and panoramic sunroof further add to the luxurious ambience.              

The Flying Spur Mulliner is available in the Middle East with Bentley’s V8 and W12 powertrains. When equipped with Bentley’s 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12, the Flying Spur Mulliner accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds) and is capable of a top speed of 207 mph (333 km/h). The new generation 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 delivers a top speed of 198 mph (318 km/h) and 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds).

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News World World News

Bentley celebrates centenary of first win

Brooklands Win Centenary

100 years since Bentley’s first-ever race win…reports Asian Lite News

100 years since the first race win for a Bentley, the winning car itself – known as EXP2 – returned to the famous Brooklands Racetrack in Surrey to lead a cavalcade of 3-Litre Bentleys to celebrate the centenary of its victory.

Brooklands Win Centenary

EXP2 is the oldest Bentley in the world, and only the second car ever built by W.O. Bentley’s fledgling company in 1921. EXP2 led a field of 24 3-Litres from across the country, which formed up on the remaining section of the banked Brooklands circuit where Bentley took its first ever win back in 1921. The car took victory in the Whitsun Junior Sprint Handicap at the hands of ‘works’ driver Frank Clement, starting a series of race wins for the 3-Litre model that culminated in two victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans – Bentley’s first in 1924, driven by Clement and John Duff, and again in 1927. Between those successes, in 1925 Duff also used a 3-Litre to secure a total of 21 world records over the course of 24 hours.

These early victories for the 3-Litre engrained motorsport in the foundations of Bentley, and paved for the way for more than 1,600 3-Litre models to be produced and sold.

The collection of 3-Litres and the event itself was organised by the Bentley Drivers’ Club, whose chairman Richard Parkinson comments: “Motorsport success is a huge part of Bentley’s  heritage, as it is for the Bentley Drivers Club. We were therefore determined to mark the centenary of the first Bentley racing win at Brooklands this year with the actual car, EXP2 itself, kindly provided by Bentley Motors.”

EXP2 – The Oldest Bentley in the World

After founding his company in 1919, it took two years for W.O. Bentley to develop the engine and chassis of his first production model – the 3-Litre, a car that he went on to produce 1,622 examples of between 1921 and 1929. Crucial to that development programme were the Experimentals – or EXPs for short. EXP1 came first, and was the very first car to wear the Bentley badge. EXP2 was next, and while EXP1 was lost to history (and may well have been cannibalised to create the other EXPs), EXP2 has survived for a century as the oldest Bentley in existence.

Bentley EXP2

EXP2 was originally constructed with a plain two-seat body, to serve its function as a development testbed for the engine – incredibly advanced for its time – and chassis. It was later rebodied with dark red bodywork and an aluminium bonnet, crafted by coachbuilders JH Easter of Chagford Street.

ALSO READ: Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

It’s first race was only nine days before its first win. At the hands of Frank Clement, it competed at Brooklands but failed to finish. Whatever gremlins had disturbed that first race were banished by the following weekend, and when the car took to the track again it came home victorious for the first time.

EXP2 carried on with its split career of development testing and racing for two years, before being sold in September 1923. The car was completely rebuilt to its original specification around 25 years ago, and is now one of the most important members of the Bentley Heritage Collection.

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Business News World

Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

Hyundai brand value rises in Interbrand’s Global ranking

Hyundai Motor’s efforts to bolster its brand capabilities in ways that customers value have earned it awards and accolades from organizations around the world…reports Asian Lite News

Hyundai Motor Company marked its steady climb in Interbrand’s Best Global Brands 2021 Rankings, placing 35th overall, up one notch from 2020. According to Interbrand’s comprehensive assessment, Hyundai Motor’s global brand value rose 6.3% year-on-year to $15.2 billion in 2021, its seventh straight year among the top 30-something brands.

Interbrand’s positive appraisal of Hyundai Motor is based on the company’s eco-friendly, future-oriented focus on electrification and smart mobility solutions, commitment to carbon neutrality by 2045 and creation of non-face-to-face sales channels as a preventive measure against COVID-19.

ROBOTICS

Since its previous Interbrand evaluation, Hyundai Motor has doubled down on vehicle electrification by spearheading development of a hydrogen fuel cell commercial vehicle ecosystem in China and Europe, supported by Hyundai Motor Group’s new HTWO fuel cell technology brand.

Hyundai Motor also launched its Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and new IONIQ dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand. German automobile magazine Autozeitung ranked it at the top of its comparative evaluation of compact crossover EVs, beating models from top German brands. 

Hyundai Motor also launched a smart city construction project in which to demonstrate future smart mobility devices and services. This human-centered, nature-friendly enclave aims to use Hyundai’s Urban Air Mobility (UAM), robotics and autonomous EVs to address urbanization issues such congestion and pollution. By 2028, Hyundai Motor plans to have a fully electric UAM model optimized for urban operation and foresees day-to-day use of air taxis by the 2030s.

ALSO READ: Robotics to play a key role in Hyundai’s future journey

These electrification and smart mobility plans are bolstered by Hyundai Motor’s recent declaration at IAA Mobility 2021 in Germany that it will achieve net-zero carbon emissions throughout all stages from automobile production to operation and disposal by 2045. Hyundai’s holistic approach focuses on three pillars: clean mobility, next-generation platforms and green energy.

More urgently came Hyundai Motor’s proactive response to market challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as expanding its ‘Click to Buy’ non-face-to-face sales channel to the U.S., Europe, India and other regions last year, facilitating contactless sales through Hyundai Showroom Live, and revealing new vehicle models online to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

This year, Hyundai Motor’s efforts to bolster brand capabilities have earned it awards in 17 categories, such as ‘Interface & User Experience Design,’ at Red Dot 2021, a world-class design award, which  also serves to boost brand value.

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Arab News News World

MG Motor launches all-new MG GT

MG Motor launches all-new MG GT

Third-generation MG family design language fully incorporated in the sporty all-new 2022 MG GT…reports Asian Lite News

MG Motor has launched the all-new MG GT, reflecting the British-born brand’s commitment to diversify its line-up by unveiling a sporty new model. The all-new MG GT offers Middle East car buyers a fresh new alternative in the sedan sector, with its aggressive sporty looks and 1.5L and 1.5T powertrains for optimum power and performance, with prices starting from $13,310*.

MG Motor launches all-new MG GT

Inspired by the classic two-door MGB sports car, the all-new MG GT is the third sedan to join MG’s growing line-up of cost-efficient and high-value-for-money cars. With the brand’s focus on younger buyers, as demonstrated by its “Do More” ethos, the new model is set to resonate strongly with the region’s demographic, by reflecting the customers’ independence, aspirations, passion and rebelliousness, all of which are a result of their active and daring mindset.

The all-new 1.5T MG GT is equipped with a highly-efficient four-cylinder turbocharged engine and a DCT gearbox, which delivers maximum horsepower of 173 PS and 250N.m maximum torque to accelerate the car from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds. The 1.5L model is equipped with a fourth-generation, fuel efficient, 118 PS 1.5L engine and an iCVT gearbox. Both models are equipped with an XDS curve dynamic control system, which adds to the driving experience. The dynamic performance is further assisted by the sports chassis, which is of aerospace-grade aluminum and has a compact structure, resulting in high driving comfort and stronger handling stability.

ALSO READ: MG Motor launches an Exclusive MG RX8 Black Edition

The all-new MG GT is the brand’s first sports sedan to feature the third generation of its family design language. A large ‘Digital Flaming Grille’ is separated from the narrow, LED headlights, enhancing the powerful and dynamic presence. Complementing the strong downward-pressing bonnet, at the rear the all-new MG GT features a slightly upturned ducktail, which reinforces the sporty look. An end-to-end chrome line along with the wide shoulder of the car, and optional tomahawk alloy wheels (with Michelin tyres), add to the premium look and feel.

The dynamic look and feel is reflected in the interior, which is available in contrasting red or black. The seats’ structure adopts a design layout that considers and takes into account the principles of ergonomics, providing optimal comfort for the driver and better support for the body.  A large 10” touch screen is fitted as standard, with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, enabling the drivers to seamlessly use their smartphones with the car.  

MG GT Interior

Befitting MG’s reputation for offering great value, the all-new MG GT is well-equipped with a range of technologies that reflect MG’s forward-thinking approach. The model comes with a body electronic stability control system, and a PDC rear reversing radar, as well as MG Pilot intelligent driving assistance system, a 360° view monitoring system, cruise control and forward collision warning among other features.

TOM LEE, MANAGING DIRECTOR, MG MOTOR MIDDLE EAST: “The all-new MG GT serves as testimony to our challenger brand status as we continually seek to exceed expectations, while also introducing a new direction in regards to our design language.  The model is a well-equipped car that will further enhance the diverse nature of our exceptional line-up in the Middle East. It is also the ideal model for younger buyers who are looking for a cost-efficient, sporty car that delivers strong performance and provides drivers with an exciting driving experience, while simultaneously reflecting their rebellious spirit.”

The all-new MG GT will be available for sale across the GCC and Middle Eastern markets starting from October 25, 2021.  

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Technology UAE News World

Volvo cars to go fully electric by 2030

Volvo fully electric cars

Volvo Cars plans to improve the range further and integrate the battery pack into the floor of the car, using the cell structure for overall vehicle stiffness and improving efficiency…reports Asian Lite News

Al-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, the exclusive distributor of Volvo Cars in the UAE, has announced the automotive brand is rapidly moving towards becoming a fully electric car company. Volvo Cars is bringing battery cell technology development and production closer to home and aims to tailor its future batteries to the needs of its customers: a longer range and faster charging times.

Volvo fully electric cars

It will do so by improving lithium-ion battery technology on its forthcoming second generation of electric cars, starting with the pure electric successor to its XC90 flagship.

By the middle of the decade, as it introduces its third generation of electric cars, starting with the successor to its best-selling XC60 midsize SUV, Volvo Cars plans to improve the range further and integrate the battery pack into the floor of the car, using the cell structure for overall vehicle stiffness and improving efficiency.

In the near term, Volvo Cars plans to work with leading Swedish battery company Northvolt to further increase the energy density in its battery cells by up to 50 per cent compared to what is on the market today. Later this decade, Volvo Cars also looks to break the 1000 Wh/l energy density milestone, in order to achieve 1000 km of real driving range.

Current charging times are expected to be cut almost in half by mid-decade, thanks to better battery technology and continuous improvements to software and fast-charging technology.

HENRIK GREEN, CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER: “We want to constantly consider and increase the customer benefits of driving a pure electric Volvo car, by simplifying the design and integration of our battery cells, we can reduce weight and maximise space, allowing for considerable improvements in battery capacity, range and charging times.”

As Volvo Cars moves towards becoming an all-electric car company, the importance of sustainability increases in parallel. While the company will increase the battery energy in its cars over the coming decade, it will also work to continuously reduce their carbon impact.

Battery cells from Volvo Cars’ planned collaboration with Northvolt aim to be produced using 100 per cent renewable energy, while it is working with other battery suppliers to do the same by 2025.

ALSO READ: Robotics to play a key role in Hyundai’s future journey

Volvo Cars has a clear strategy to further reduce the carbon impact of batteries by making better use of the valuable material contained in them. Wherever possible, it intends to remanufacture or reuse batteries, and is also investigating potential second-life applications, such as energy storage.

Where possible, batteries that have reached the end of their lifespan will be recycled at authorised recyclers that are able to offer closed loop recycling of critical materials for use in future batteries. Volvo Car Group’s planned partnership with Northvolt also raises the possibility to utilise their established recycling operations.

Volvo fully electric cars

Volvo Cars will also continue to focus on the responsible sourcing of batteries, including through a wider use of blockchain technology. By working more closely with its partners and suppliers, Volvo Cars will strengthen its responsible sourcing even further.

Already with the successor to the XC90, the company will offer bi-directional charging, allowing customers to offload excess electricity in their car battery to the power grid. This means electric Volvo drivers can provide energy to the grid when prices and CO2 emissions related to electricity production are at their daily peak, while charging their car when emissions fall.

“We want to offer our customers sustainable pure electric cars that makes their lives easier and more enjoyable,” said Henrik Green, chief technology officer. “Through smart innovation and collaboration with key partners, we can give customers what they want – more range, faster charging and lower costs – and further boost widespread adoption of electric mobility.”

Volvo Cars’ electrification roadmap is firmly focused on vertical integration, involving the in-house design, development and production of batteries, e-motors and relevant software in collaboration with strategic partners. The aim is to achieve as many synergies and efficiencies as possible throughout the entire battery supply chain.

Earlier this month, Volvo Car Group announced a planned collaboration with Northvolt to develop and produce sustainable batteries. These will be tailored to power the next generation of pure electric Volvo and Polestar cars and secure a future supply of sustainable batteries needed to support growth.

The collaboration with Northvolt is key to Volvo Cars’ ambition to become a leader in the premium electric car segment and sell only pure electric vehicles by 2030. It also represents an important step in the expansion of its in-house capabilities for production as well as development, coupled with partnerships with technology leaders.