Tag Archives: Middle East cars

LUXURY GRAND TOURING

11 Sunday Feb 2018

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THE ALL-NEW BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT

By Shereen Shabnam

Bentley Motors head turning new Continental GT is the definitive Grand Tourer. Designed, engineered and handcrafted meticulously, the new third-generation Bentley Continental GT combines spirited, focused performance cutting-edge technology, to create the finest Grand Tourer ever produced.

At the heart of the new Continental GT sits an all-new, enhanced version of Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 TSI engine, mated, for the first time, to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission, for faster, more efficient gear changes. The engine is the most advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world.

A new, technically advanced, adaptive chassis uses Bentley’s intelligent
48-volt Dynamic Ride System that controls ride comfort and lateral roll, cushioning passengers from excessive movement and making the car feel effortlessly precise.

The muscular exterior design, created using revolutionary technology, results in a lightweight, yet stiff, body. The engine is positioned further back to improve weight distribution, resulting in driver-focused, dynamic performance.

Offering four seats and improved luggage capacity for genuine real-world usability, the new Bentley Continental GT’s luxurious cabin is packed with exquisite details such as a new ‘diamond in diamond’ leather design. In addition, significant work has gone into harmonising the extensive portfolio of 15 colours across hides and carpets.

The new Continental GT also showcases an advanced, fully digital, driver-focused instrument panel and Bentley Rotating Display for the driver are among the suite of innovations.

The interior design of the Continental GT is tailored with unrivalled attention to detail and seamlessly integrates cutting-edge onboard technology with the finest handcrafted natural materials. The result is an exquisite, harmonised, connected and luxurious space.

The exterior design of the new Continental GT is based on a bold new vision that is unmistakably Bentley. It retains the classic elegance that made its forebear so popular, the form of the new car is more sculptural and sharply defined and takes much of its inspiration from the critically acclaimed EXP 10 Speed 6 concept car.

The exquisitely styled dashboard of the new Continental GT is sculpted by long, flowing wings that mirror the shape of the Bentley badge. A floating leather top flows seamlessly to the doors.

A choice of three audio systems is offered in the new Continental GT. The standard system features 10 speakers and 650 Watts, while a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 W, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles is aimed at lifestyle-oriented customers.

The user interface is designed to be akin to a modern mobile phone and menus are structured to be instantly intuitive. The new Continental benefits from Apple CarPlay, the smartest and quickest way to integrate the functionality of Apple devices in a car is connected via a USB port.

Through Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Control different modes can be selected: Comfort mode, Bentley mode or Sport mode; the suspension, engine, gearbox and other chassis systems will modify to match the selected drive mode. The new engine also utilises Start-Stop technology where the engine rests not only when the vehicle is stationary but also at near-to-stop speeds.

Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) is also featured on the Continental GT offering a wide range of Driver Assistance features including Active Lane Assist, Traffic Jam Assist and Park Assist.

Bentley’s desire to offer customers cars with unsurpassed levels of luxury and performance goes hand-in-hand with a determination to enhance significantly fuel economy, reduce emissions and develop highly advanced, sustainable drive technologies for the future.

The car was tested for serious sub-zero driving on frozen lakes and in snow as well as in temperatures approaching 50 degrees Celsius covering thousands of kilometres. As with all Bentleys, the Continental GT can be enhanced further with highly skilled and dedicated craftspeople who respond to bespoke customer requirements.

Global auto aftermarket players turn to Automechanika Dubai 2017 amid upward trend of ME vehicle sales, spare parts demand

23 Thursday Mar 2017

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Exedy, Meritor, Al Dobowi, among more than 2,000 exhibitors readying for the return of three-day showcase in Dubai

An upward trend of both vehicle sales and spare parts demand across the Middle East has been welcomed by global automotive aftermarket players, as they ready themselves for the return of the region’s largest automotive service industry trade fair in Dubai.

While macroeconomic factors negatively impacted vehicle sales in 2016, analysts Frost & Sullivan expect renewed growth from 2017 onwards. According to their research, new car sales in the Middle East is estimated to grow nine per cent annually, reaching 4.4 million by 2020, and bringing the total number of vehicles in operation to 44.5 million.

That coupled with an average vehicle age of nearly eight years means demand for automotive aftermarket products and services in the Middle East is also on an upward growth curve; revenue from engine and car components, systems, tyres, and auto accessories, is estimated to reach US$17.27 billion by 2020, growing annually by 5.9 per cent.

A regional market full of opportunity will be underlined by Automechanika Dubai 2017, where more than 2,000 exhibitors from 55 countries will showcase their latest wares to thousands of trade buyers and decision makers from throughout the Middle East, Africa, and further afield.

Taking place from 7-9 May 2017 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the annual three-day event will arrive with the biggest aftermarket brands on-board, spread over six product sections of Parts & Components; Electronics & Systems; Accessories & Customising; Repair & Maintenance; Car Wash, Care & Reconditioning; and Tyres & Batteries.

With more than 1,400 exhibitors combined, Parts & Components, and Electronics & Systems comprise the largest portion of Automechanika Dubai, and features global stalwarts such as brakes manufacturer Brembo from Italy, Delphi from the UK, and Japanese drivetrain systems manufacturer, Exedy.

Toshihiro Abe, the Vice-president of Exedy, said the company hopes it can maintain its market share, with the forecasts in the regional market painting a positive picture for its future business.

“We’ve generated new business for our automatic clutches while trade is also growing in Africa in recent years,” said Abe. “Exedy continues to hold a large share in both domestic and international markets, establishing 40 group companies and covering 23 countries worldwide.

“Our participation at Automechanika Dubai will increase our brand awareness and promote our products, both for existing customers and new prospects. In this way we hope to expand our business to African and the South Asian markets,” he added.

Meritor, the world’s largest independent manufacturer of axles for the heavy duty industry, is returning to Automechanika Dubai 2017 for the third straight year. The American-headquartered Fortune 500 Company views the Middle East and African automotive aftermarket as one of its key growth markets.

Stefan Kaltenbach, the Managing Director for Meritor in Europe and the Middle East and Africa, said: “We want to grow in the Middle East, where we recognise a great potential of cooperation with parts distributors and potential fleets.”

“Automechanika Dubai is becoming one of our most important platforms for meeting customers and having the chance to display our company and our offerings, while it also enables us to explore new territories and meet trading companies operating in their respective markets. We are excited to be able show our competencies in coaches and buses, trucks and trailers with existing and new product ranges.”

Added Kaltenbach: “Spare parts demand for buses and coaches continues to grow across the region, for which we have exciting new solutions that customers in Europe and also in the Middle East trust in.”

Elsewhere, UAE-based Al Dobowi, an eminent global player at the forefront of tyre and battery industry, is among the 200-plus exhibitors at Automechanika Dubai’s Tyres & Batteries section.

From research and design, manufacturing and distribution, to retail and service, Al Dobowi is involved in every aspect of tyre management solutions, and also the largest battery manufacturer in the region.

“Automechanika Dubai has been a good platform for networking ever since we participated in its very first edition,” said Surender Kandhari, the Chairman of Al Dobowi Group.

“It has now grown significantly as showcased by its various versions in other cities. The Dubai exhibition has driven annual increase of exhibitors and visitors alike giving us opportunity to engage with industry partners and peers mostly from Middle East, Africa and Asia.”

Automechanika Dubai’s global influence is underlined by the presence of more than 20 country pavilions and 35 international trade associations, while 90 per cent of exhibitors, and 51 per cent of visitors are expected to come from outside of the UAE.

Ahmed Pauwels, CEO of Messe Frankfurt Middle East, Automechanika Dubai’s organiser, said: “Automechanika Dubai is already among one of the world’s top five international trade fairs for the automotive aftermarket, and what makes it unique is that it connects suppliers from all over the world with a diverse mix of visitors that would otherwise be virtually impossible to reach.

“But it’s not just a platform to showcase products and meet new customers. It’s an important stage to open dialogue with existing contacts, find solutions to any issues they’re facing, and plan business strategies year-on-year. It’s also an ideal opportunity for automotive aftermarket stakeholders to bring technical awareness to the market, and this is something we’ll look to build on in the coming years,” he added.

Automechanika Dubai 2017 returns with its popular Truck Competence initiative, where more than 1,000 exhibitors will showcase their products dedicated to the entire value chain in the truck sector, from truck parts and accessories, to workshop equipment, body repairs and care.

It will also feature the popular Automechanika Academy – a series of seminars, presentations, and workshops about key issues and regulations that affect the automotive aftermarket, and the African Buyer-Seller Meet, connecting suppliers with buyers from the world’s second largest continent. More information about Automechanika Dubai is available at: www.automechanikadubai.com.

Spare Parts Revenue by Category in the Middle East, 2015-2020

*Source: Frost & Sullivan

 

  Revenue US$ (2015) Revenue US$ (2020) CAGR (2013-2020)
Tires 2.672 billion 4.278 billion 9.9 %
Batteries 1.090 billion 1.393 billion 5.0 %
Brake Parts 977 million 1.567 billion 9.9 %
Filters 448 million 789 million 12.0 %
Starters & Alternators 406 million 419 million 0.7 %
Lighting 214 million 252 million 3.3 %
Wheels 256 million 378 million 8.2 %
Exhaust Components 142 million 311 million 16.9 %
Spark Plugs 189 million 306 million 10.1 %
Others 6.583 billion 7.573 billion 2.8 %
Total 12.977 billion 17.265 billion 5.9 %

 

 

Ram Trucks Line Up to Spearhead Brand’s Growth

22 Wednesday Mar 2017

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By Shereen Shabnam

Since inception, the Ram Truck Brand has steadily emerged as an industry leader with one goal: to build the best pickup trucks and commercial vehicles in the industry. Hence, by creating a distinct identity for Ram Trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on core customers and features they find valuable.

In order to be the best, it takes a commitment to innovation, capability, efficiency and durability and Ram Truck invests substantially in its products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and exclusive features that further enhance their capabilities.

We often find that truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver the total package that meets customers in this segment.

Recently I ventured into the desert with a group of motoring journalists to test the latest RAM Trucks. Growing up on the coastal as well as the highland terrain of the Fiji Islands, I developed an affinity with trucks early in life, as it was the main mode of transport for many who ventured outside the city regularly. Getting into the Ram trucks brought back memories of adrenalin packed drives into challenging terrains that only trucks can handle.

The Middle East is one of the key markets selected to spearhead the Ram brand’s expansion outside North America, where it has achieved significant success since becoming a stand-alone brand in 2009, winning numerous prestigious awards along the way. The brand, which only makes trucks, has rapidly built a strong reputation as a truck specialist.

FCA Middle East has confirmed that the Ram brand portfolio available in the region has grown significantly in response to customer demand, with the majority of new models available in showrooms straight away.

The Ram 1200 metric ton pickup, which joins a much-expanded line-up of larger, highly capable Ram 1500 trucks, gives the brand access to the largest truck segment in the Middle East.

“Ram is a key pillar of our expansion plans and will grow from six percent to represent 15 percent of our business, and even more over in the coming years,” said Maurizio Zuares, CEO of FCA Middle East.

“We listened to customers in order to deliver the products that they are looking for, and the result is an expanded Ram 1500 line up with many more regular cab and crew cab options, plus the addition of a metric ton pickup, which completes the Ram line up and allows us to compete in a segment where we were previously absent.”

According to FCA Middle East’s estimates, 2016 saw trucks accounting for 13 percent of total vehicle sales in the region, making it the second most important segment.

“While there are many opportunities in the Middle East, there are pre-requisites to ensure success. That’s why we believe that having a clear strategy for the future is essential, and we’re confident that we have everything in place to become a serious player in these important segments,” added Zuares.

 FCA Middle East’s strategy is based on a combination of the right products that have been extensively tested in the region, plus a strong focus on maximising the potential of the Ram brand in the Middle East.

Layered on top of that is a no-compromise commitment to both retail and business customers, combining great products with competitive prices and ensuring easy accessibility through a wide regional network. FCA Middle East also supports its products with strong manufacturer warranties, and Mopar® offers further reassurance and peace of mind through extended warranties, quick service facilities, competitive service packages and a wide range of accessories.

Rapid availability of spare parts is clearly another key factor in the purchase decision, and FCA Middle East has that area covered with its dedicated regional parts distribution centre in Jebel Ali.

To better serve the Ram brand customers, FCA Middle East is launching a cross-regional programme to establish sales and service teams that will be trained to effectively support Ram’s expanding portfolio.

Ram launch_Dubai_Day 1_200217_003

The Ram 1500 line up grows from three models to nine, with the introduction of the new Express, Sport, Big Horn, Longhorn and Limited models, with the eagerly anticipated Ram Rebel arriving around the middle of the year.

“From the new 1500 Express, which will appeal to customers looking for an affordable truck without compromising on design, to the sheer luxury of the Longhorn and Limited, which are targeted at customers looking for no compromise on luxury, there’s now a Ram for everyone,” said Robert J. Hegbloom, Head of Ram Brand International, FCA US LLC.

The current ST, SLT and Laramie models will also continue as part of the new range, which also includes 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 variants. All are powered by the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI® V8 and the new Express model also has the distinction of being the most powerful regular cab truck available in the Middle East.

The Ram 1200, available in the market immediately, comes in both single and double cab and 4 x 2 (rear-wheel drive) and 4 x 4 configurations, with two trim levels and the choice of petrol and diesel engines – all versions have a maximum height of 1,775 mm, are up to 1,785 mm wide with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. Payload capacity is up to 1,165 kg, and it can tow up to 3 metric tons.

The two engine options are a 2.5-litre diesel with a power output of 94 kW (126 hp) to 100 kW (134 hp) or a 2.4-litre petrol engine that delivers 97 kW (130 hp). A manual gearbox is standard for both the diesel and petrol engines.

#petrolhead #motoring #Automotive #uae #carcrazy #carsovereverything #Fijian #ShereenShabnam #Emirates #UAE #fastcars #AllAboutWheels #DrivingPleasure #cargirl #MyDrive #performance #Islander #supercars #lovecars #luxury-cars #carlover #fastcars #horsepower #speed #engine #style #luxury #ShereenBehindTheWheel #AllAboutWheels #CarSpotting @Shereen_Shabnam

 

Athletic aesthetic and elegant style – Audi A7 model

06 Saturday Jun 2015

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Standaufnahme Farbe: Misanorot Verbrauchsangaben Audi RS 7 Sportback 4.0 TFSI quattro:Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert in l/100 km: 9,8;CO2-Emission kombiniert in g/km: 229

Standaufnahme Farbe: Misanorot 

The new, spacious Audi A7 five-door coupe is now even more powerful and attractive with new engine configurations, new transmissions, headlights, taillights and new infotainment systems that is perfect for the discerning tastes of automotive enthusiasts in the Middle East.

Driving down the Beach Road in Dubai, the car, undoubtedly the best in its class, commanded a second look by the many motor enthusiasts who cruise the streets on weekends. The A7 combines the emotional appeal and sportiness of a coupe with the comfort of a sedan and the functional benefits of an Avant.

Audi is known for setting new standards in automotive design, embracing an athletic aesthetic and elegance in grand style. In A7, the striking sporty, flowing C‑pillars and the sharply dropping rear end create a dynamic overall impression.

The body of the new Audi A7 is extraordinarily lightweight and designed for maximum comfort in terms of noise. The boot space under the long, electrically driven trunk lid has a huge base capacity and fits everything an executive needs. It was particularly a hit with my golfing mates who always wanted a sleek sedan but never had enough space for their golf bags.

The sporty style of the exterior is echoed in the car’s interior. The dominant element is the horizontal line surrounding the driver and passenger. The dashboard gives an impression of lightness and elegance. The new interior materials, including the aluminum-Beaufort walnut inlay and standard Valcona leather are impressive.

The new Audi A7 is confident and relaxed to drive. The electric front seats can be optionally equipped with ventilation and massage functions. The MMI navigation plus system with MMI touch comes standard; it can be supplemented as an option with a head‑up display that projects all-important information onto the windshield.

To start out, Audi is offering the new A7 with a choice of three powerful and highly efficient engines: two TFSI and one FSI engine. Their power rating ranges from 220 hp to 333 hp.

The A7 offers an extensive range of standard options: Electric sunroof, keyless entry & go, parking sensors with rear view camera and individual contour seats with Valcona leather to just mention some of them.

For infotainment, the A7’s standard MMI navigation plus system with MMI touch utilizes the latest generation of the modular infotainment system; its highlight is a powerful graphics processor from Audi’s partner Nvidia. The Touchpad controls let the driver scroll and zoom in lists and maps. The top of the Hi-Fi line is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System.

The adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, the further improved night vision assistant and the Audi pre sense safety systems are all state of the art. Audi side assist and Audi active lane assist work closely together to make lane changes even safer.

Interested buyers can note that the color palette has been redesigned, offering six color options even for the seats, perfect for the most discerning Middle East car lovers.

Shereen Shabnam