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Parain Appointed BMW Sales VP, Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East And Africa

– Press Release –

 

Jean-Philippe Parain follows Hendrik von Kuenheim as Senior Vice President Sales Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa.

06 April 2022, Munich, Germany / Dubai, UAE – The BMW Group announced the appointment of Jean-Philippe Parain as Senior Vice President Sales Regions Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. Parain will succeed Hendrik von Kuenheim, who took the decision to retire after 37 years at the BMW Group.

Parain will be taking over the new role as of April 1st, 2022. With a wealth of experience since he joined the company in 1997 at BMW France in the marketing department. Parain held several senior management roles including President and CEO BMW Group Belux, Head of MINI Europe and Senior Vice President Sales Region Europe.

Jean-Philippe Parain said: “It is an honour and privilege to take on the role of Senior Vice President Sales Regions Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. This is a vital region for our industry, with a very promising potential as we continue to lead the future of mobility. I am looking forward to work with all our colleagues and partners to continue winning the hearts of our customers and sustain our strong positioning in the region.”

Hendrik von Kuenheim, outgoing BMW Senior Vice President Sales Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa

Pieter Nota, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales said: “We are very excited to welcome Jean-Philippe Parain into his new role and look forward to the continued success of the BMW Group across the region. As former head of Europe, Jean-Philippe is a well-known member of our team and brings a proven track record of excellence and a vast portfolio of experience to his new role. Hendrik von Kuenheim combines passion and professionalism like few others and was the driving force of the company’s success in the Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. He has successfully led his team through a rapidly evolving era in the industry. We wish him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

Von Kuenheim started his career at BMW Group 37 years ago.  Right from the beginning on he has gained extensive sales experience from various senior management roles with the BMW Group across all regions worldwide before he took over the position as General Director at BMW Motorrad in 2008. Since 2012 he has led the expansion of the company across the region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa as Senior Vice President.

Hendrick von Kuenheim said: “It has been my privilege to work for the BMW Group over the past three decades. In this time, we have seen as many changes as rarely before in our industry. But teamwork, intercultural understanding and a clear objective have remained as success factors. I’d like to thank the many colleagues, partners, and customers I have had the pleasure to work alongside and wish everyone the best for the future.”

BAIC BJ40 Plus: China’s Comfortable, Capable And Charismatic Off-Roader

Re-launched under new management and with a new location in Jordan in recent weeks, Chinese auto manufacturer BAIC hits the ground running with the BJ40 Plus topping its’ current local product portfolio. An authentic off-road oriented SUV in design and execution, – much in the same vein as the Jeep Wrangler – a first drive of the BAIC BJ40 Plus however also reveals it to be a comfortable, seemingly well-constructed and practical daily driver with handling and road manners even better than many road-oriented crossovers.

One of the more interesting and impressive among the numerous Chinese cars that have collectively and quickly gained popularity and acceptance in the Jordanian market in recent years, the BJ40 Plus’s primary appeal is that a dedicated off-road capable machine, in engineering and design. Utilitarian for daily use with its 5-door configuration, high equipment and comfort levels, the BJ40 Plus’ design is however that of a fun-loving, high-riding adventure-mobile, with squared-off styling, removable roof and wheels pushed out to the corners.

Reminiscent of the Jeep Wrangler with its wide grille slots, boxy upright body and bulging squared-off wheel-arches, the BJ40’s clamshell bonnet, short grille and slim, browed and squinting headlights meanwhile evoke a vague Land Rover styling influence. Familiar yet different, the BJ40’s design inspirations nevertheless coalesce into a uniquely rugged and dramatically purposeful aesthetic sensibility. Built using tough body-on-chassis construction, the BJ40 Plus meanwhile rides with generous 210mm ground clearance, which with short overhangs provides excellent 37° approach, 23° break-over and 31° departure angles.

Powered by a single engine option for the Jordanian market, the BJ40’s updated but Saab-derived turbocharged 2.3-litre engine was last used for the Swedish manufacturer’s own swift 9-5 Aero sports saloon back in 2009, but still proved quite mighty in propelling the Chinese car maker’s heavier, higher riding off-roader with better than expected verve. Developing 247BHP at just 5,300rpm and a deep 258lb/ft torque output throughout an accessibly broad 1,900-4,500rpm plateau, the BJ40 Plus is reasonably brisk through 0-100km/h, despite its 2-tonne mass.

Capable of pushing its high, heavy and upright frame through wind resistance to a 170km/h top speed, the BJ40 Plus certainly has an abundant mid-range torque reservoir that it rides with muscular confidence on inclines and when overtaking in town or on the open road. Smooth and mostly well-insulated, the BJ40’s engine develops an evocative distant raspy growl when pushed towards redline at heavy load. Comparatively low revving, the BJ40’s engine is meanwhile quick-spooling from standstill, with any turbo lag seemingly imperceptible.

A ‘proper’ traditional off-road oriented SUV with ladder-frame chassis and longitudinal engine – unlike some ersatz alternatives – the BJ40 is equipped with a lockable four-wheel-drive mode for tough off-road conditions and low ratio transfer case for the most demanding conditions, when high power crawling is necessary. It also features an automatically engaging electronic locking rear differential when in low gear mode for added traction. The BJ40 is meanwhile a modifier-friendly platform for fitting 33-inch tyres and mechanical differential locks for further enhanced off-road abilities.

Driving the rear wheels in normal on-road conditions the BJ40 channels power through a slick shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox. Gear-lever actuated manual-mode shifting is available, but seldom needed due to intuitive kickdown auto mode responses. Balanced in weighting, the BJ40 is meanwhile more eager and agile through corners than expected for its class. Turning in tidily and intuitively despite its light, tall ratio off-road oriented steering, the BJ40 grips well at the front and feels reassuringly stable, yet potentially adjustable through briskly driven corners.

Powering smoothly and confidently out of corners with committed road-holding as power is fed through the rear wheels, the BJ40’ ladder-frame construction meanwhile feels stiff and refined to allow its suspension to function with accuracy. Riding on sporty double wishbone front suspension, the BJ40’s front feels fluent and adaptable to sudden direction changes. At the rear, a live axle and coil spring set-up is rugged but more sophisticated than leaf springs, and well damps and well controls opposite side reactions over rough road imperfections.

Comfortable over large bumps and ruts, the BJ40 feels better settled in vertical movement that many ostensibly more road-oriented high riding vehicles. Cabin refinement is meanwhile of high quality given that the roof is fully removable, except for safety bars, while the front windshield can be folded down for an al fresco driving experience. Driving position adjustability and comfort are meanwhile good, as is front visibility. Rear space is decent, but rear door length could be better, as often the case with dedicated off-road SUVs.

Well-equipped with convenience, safety and infotainment features, the BJ40’s cabin is also well-appointed in terms of material quality, design, fit and finish. Luggage room is meanwhile generous at 532-litres and can expand to 965-litres with rear seats folded. As driven, it was however fitted with a removable rear luggage box with useful compartmentalized spaces for tidy storage of smaller objects and cargo. Competitively priced at JD34,000-35,000 on the road with third party insurance, the BJ40 comes with a 200,000km or 6-year warranty.

Specifications: BAIC BJ40 Plus

  • Engine: 2.3-litre, in-line, 4-cylinders
  • Bore x Stroke: 90 x 90mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.3:1
  • Valve-train: DOHC, 16-valve, variable timing
  • Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
  • Drive-line: four-wheel-drive, low ratio transfer, rear electronic differential lock
  • Power, BHP (PS) [kW]: 247 (250) [184] @5,300rpm
  • Specific power: 107.8BHP/litre
  • Power-to-weight: 117.9BHP/tonne
  • Torque, lb/ft (Nm): 258 (350) @1,900-4,500rpm
  • Specific torque: 152.8Nm/litre
  • Torque-to-weight: 167Nm/tonne
  • 0-100km/h: 9.5-seconds (estimate)
  • Top speed: 170km/h (estimate)
  • Fuel consumption: 8.5-10 litres/100km (estimate)
  • Fuel capacity: 75-liters
  • Length: 4,645mm
  • Width: 1,925mm
  • Height: 1,871mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,745mm
  • Track: 1,610mm
  • Ground clearance: 210mm
  • Approach / break-over / departure angles: 37° / 23° / 31°
  • Seating: 5
  • Cargo volume min/max: 532-/965-litres
  • Kerb weight: 2,095kg (estimate)
  • Gross vehicle weight: 2,520kg
  • Steering: Power-assisted rack & pinion
  • Turning circle: 12.5-meters
  • Suspension, F/R: Double wishbone / solid axles, coil springs
  • Brakes, F/R: Ventilated discs / discs
  • Tires: 265/65R17
  • Price, on-the-road, including 3rd party insurance: JD34,000-35,000
  • Warranty: 6-years / 200,000km

Lamborghini Urus Joins The Dubai Police

– Press Release –

Dubai Police expands its exclusive fleet with addition of the Lamborghini Urus

31 March 2022, Dubai, UAE In celebration of the UAE’s 50th year anniversary, the Lamborghini Urus has officially joined the internationally acclaimed Dubai Police fleet. Dressed in full livery complete with police lights, the world’s first Super Sport Utility Vehicle will be used to patrol Dubai’s roads with the safety and security of the city’s residents in mind.

Powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a maximum power output of 650 hp, the Urus offers the best power-to-weight ratio in the SUV segment and provides easy driving in the city, maximum comfort during long journeys, thrilling super sports car dynamics on the road and track, and versatile off-road abilities in a range of environments.

Lt-Gen Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police said, “By adding supercars like the Lamborghini Urus to our fleet of luxury patrol vehicles, Dubai Police enhances the security presence of its officers during international events and across essential tourist destinations.”

The move to supply the Dubai Police with a Lamborghini Urus is testament to the commitment the Italian marquee has to ensuring the security and safety of Dubai. The Urus stands apart in its segment and is well equipped to meet the requirements of the Dubai Police in its patrol of the city’s key attractions.

“Lamborghini is proud to join Dubai Police’s fleet of supercars. The Urus is our highest selling model to date and is a visionary approach based on the infusion of Lamborghini DNA into the most versatile vehicle, the SUV. Through this partnership, we are delighted to assist the Dubai Police in maintaining the safety of the people that call Dubai home.” said Paolo Sartori, Automobili Lamborghini’s regional head for the Middle East and Africa.

With the addition of the Lamborghini Urus, Dubai Police has now added another of the world’s rarest and most luxurious cars to its fleet.

Revised Audi A8 Makes Regional Debut In Dubai

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– Press Release –

The Enhanced Audi A8 and S8 Make Regional Debut

  • Upgraded safety with a progressive technology experience and intelligent functions
  • The Audi A8 and S8 were showcased in Dubai

31 March, 2022, Dubai, UAE — Audi Middle East presented its latest flagship luxury models, the Audi A8 and S8 in Dubai exclusively ahead of their official market introductions.

The company with the four rings has intensively redesigned the new flagship sedans to become the benchmark for luxury in its current fleet. The new high-end headlights and taillights inspire with innovative functions and form the apex of the A8 and S8’s established technology portfolio, creating a contemporary and user-oriented experience – whether for passengers or drivers.

Carsten Bender, Managing Director of Audi Middle East, commented “With the launch of the Audi A8 and S8, Audi is creating a benchmark that combines both the worlds of uber-luxury and performance. They are flagship models that promise a first-class experience for passengers and drivers alike, perfectly aligning our visions of progress and innovation in one.”

The unveiling of the new Audi A8 and S8 models perfectly coincided with the surprise showing of the Audi skysphere, a concept car perfectly illustrating the brand’s vision for the progressive luxury segment of the future, with features that include autonomous driving, a revolutionary interior and a seamless digital ecosystem.

The Audi A8 and S8 are sedans that represent status and exude authority – now that they have been reimagined, their exteriors are even more representative, confident, and athletic, while their interiors are more premium than ever before.

Both models are set to arrive in the region later this year, and are symbols of status and prestige for the brand. The fourth generation of the luxury sedan, which Audi introduced in 2017, raised it to a new level with respect to power, look, and equipment, remaining the progressive face of the brand until today.

The A8 and S8 meet the needs of a changing customer base. In both models, the premium concept is defined first and foremost by an emotional and comfortable interior experience, coupled with new and established technologies. The S8 sees this exemplified from a pure performance standpoint, inspired by Audi’s racing heritage, combining progressive luxury with dynamic athleticism.

Lotus Eletre: Daring Or Divisive, But Undoubtedly, A Dramatic Departure

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Unveiled to much anticipation and speculation, the Lotus Eletre comes shortly after the regrettable retirement of its entire long-stranding Elise, Exige and Evora line-up of sports cars. A follow-up to the Evora’s Emira replacement and projected last combustion engine model from the Hethel-based manufacturer, the Chinese-manufactured Eletre is set to further distance the brand from its core characteristics, and is not quite so light by virtue of it being both an EV and high-riding Crossover.

Developed in the wake of the Lotus Evija hyper car, the Eltre Promises to both packed to the hilt with the latest tech, including the use of a reduced weight carbon-fibre and aluminium body designed to incorporate ‘porosity’ for enhanced range, efficiency and air flow management. Boasting LIDAR-assisted intelligent driving tech, the Eletre meanwhile promises a swift 20-minute 400km range charging time, but with the caveat being this applies only to non-domestic high capacity 350kw charging.

Fully charged, Lotus claim a 600km range for the Eletre, while performance is expectedly sensational, including 0-100km/h acceleration in under 3-seconds courtesy of its 600 horsepower electric drive-train. Sportily stylish inside with a massive infotainment screen, the Eletre’s long, low and jutting 5-door body has a hint of Lamborghini Urus to its design, and provides seating for 4 passengers.

– Press Release –

Lotus Eletre: the world’s first electric Hyper-SUV

  • All-new and all-electric Hyper-SUV from Lotus
  • Bold, progressive and exotic, with iconic sports car DNA evolved for the next generation of Lotus customers
  • The soul of a Lotus with the usability of an SUV
  • “A momentous point in our history” – Matt Windle, MD, Lotus Car
  • “The Eletre, our Hyper-SUV, is for those who dare to look beyond the conventional and marks a turning point for our business and brand” – Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Group Lotus
  • First of three new Lotus lifestyle EVs in next four years, with design language inspired by world’s first British EV hypercar, the award-winning Lotus Evija
  • ‘Born British, Raised Globally’ – UK-led design, with engineering support from Lotus teams around the world
  • Carved by air: unique Lotus design ‘porosity’ means air flows through the vehicle for improved aerodynamics, speed, range and overall efficiency
  • Power outputs starting at 600hp
  • 350kW charge time of just 20 minutes for 400km (248 miles) of driving, accepts 22kW AC charging
  • Target driving range of c.600km (c.373 miles) on full charge
  • Eletre joins exclusive ‘The Two-Second Club’ – capable of 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in less than three seconds
  • Most advanced active aerodynamics package on any production SUV
  • World-first deployable LIDAR technology in a production car to support intelligent driving technologies
  • Extensive use of carbon fibre and aluminium for weight reduction throughout
  • Interior includes highly durable man-made textiles and sustainable lightweight wool blends
  • Manufacturing at all-new hi-tech facility in China to start later this year

29 March 2022, London, UK –The ongoing transformation of Lotus to a truly global performance car brand has reached its most significant milestone yet.

The all-new and all-electric Lotus Eletre is a striking and progressive Hyper-SUV – the first of a new breed of pure electric SUVs. It takes the core principles and Lotus DNA from more than 70 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.

The company’s famed expertise in the fields of ride and handling, steering and optimised aerodynamics have been carefully and respectfully evolved. The Eletre takes the heart and soul of the latest Lotus sports car – the Emira – and the revolutionary aero performance of the all-electric Evija hypercar, and reinterprets them as a Hyper-SUV.

Known until two days ago only by its Lotus codename, Type 132, the Eletre is a globally relevant product, a shining halo of sustainable mobility for a worldwide audience. Embodying emotion, intelligence and prestige, it extends the reach of the Lotus name, badge and renowned driver engagement to a new audience.

A bold new dimension to the Lotus performance car portfolio, the Eletre delivers a significant number of firsts for Lotus – the first five-door production car, the first model outside sports car segments, the first lifestyle EV, the most ‘connected’ Lotus ever. And yet it remains a true Lotus, a beautiful car ‘carved by air’, packed with pioneering technology, genuine sporting performance and simplicity of purpose, designed and developed by a passionate and global team. The Lotus Eletre is alive with character and personality.

The Eletre is 4WD, has a battery capacity that’s over 100kWh and with power from 600hp. A 350kW charger will deliver a 400km (248 miles) range in just 20 minutes. The car’s target maximum WLTP driving range is c.600km (c.373 miles). It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging which, where available, reduces the time plugged in.

Technology includes the most advanced active aerodynamics package on any production SUV, and intelligent driving technologies such as the world’s first deployable Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system in a production car. Add in a dynamic walk-up sequence that delivers a moment of theatre every time the driver approaches the car, and it’s clear the Eletre is making a simple statement – this is Lotus reinvented, the birth of a new icon into the Lotus stable.

Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, commented: “The Eletre is a bold and revolutionary new car, delivering on our commitment to move Lotus into completely new automotive segments as we widen our global appeal and accessibility. This is a momentous point in our history and a clear signal of our ongoing desire to transform our business. It is a true Lotus, and we’re confident it will delight performance car customers and offer a distinct alternative to the segment’s established players. The Eletre has the soul of a Lotus and the usability of an SUV. Alongside the Emira sports car, this is the perfect two-car garage from Lotus.”

Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Group Lotus, added: “The Eletre, our Hyper-SUV, is a new performance car from an iconic performance car brand and it will appeal to independent-minded and adventurous driving enthusiasts – those who love the thrill of driving. It is a unique combination of beautiful design, exceptional dynamic performance and everyday usability, for those who dare to look beyond the conventional, and marks a turning point for our business and brand.”

He added: “While the worldwide critical acclaim for the Emira has reaffirmed Lotus’ position as a respected sports car marque, the Eletre will make Lotus accessible to a whole new audience. It is a compelling alternative for those who desire a true driver’s car but whose lifestyle demands something more practical than a traditional sports car. And it is only the start for Lotus – there is much more to come.”

The Eletre is the first in a new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles to be built at an all-new state-of-the-art production facility in Wuhan, China. The car has been ‘Born British, Raised Globally’, with design led by the UK, supported by collaborative work with teams in China, Sweden and Germany. The overall exterior and interior design has been led by an international team based at the Lotus Tech Creative Centre (LTCC) in Warwickshire, UK.

Peter Horbury, Senior Vice President, Executive Advisor, Design, Lotus, commented: “The Eletre is a rare creative opportunity in performance car design – the chance to start with a blank sheet of paper and develop an all-new vehicle that takes a brand in a completely fresh direction. There has been a close working relationship and much collaboration between the Lotus design studios in Warwickshire and Hethel. The result is a ‘Hyper-SUV’ that is genuinely different to what’s on the market; the electric powertrain has inspired a ‘cab-forward’ design that echoes the iconic mid-engined layout of Lotus sports cars, creating a unique look and position in the SUV segment. The arrival of the Eletre signals the start of a new era of pure electric SUVs.”

The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new and highly versatile Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). The low-to-the-ground design means outstanding handling, and the EPA can easily adapt to accommodate C+ to E+ vehicle class battery sizes, motors, component layouts and intelligent driving technologies.

The platform will be the basis for an all-new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles from Lotus. Led by the Eletre, these cars will catapult Lotus into a new era of higher retail volumes and significant revenues.

The Lotus Eletre is on sale now across global markets, with first customer deliveries in 2023 starting in China, the UK and Europe.

The Lotus Eletre in detail

The Eletre is a new icon from Lotus. It is the latest in a long line of Lotus road cars whose name begins with the letter E, and means ‘Coming to Life’ in some Eastern European languages. It’s an appropriate link as the Eletre marks the start of a new chapter in the history of Lotus – the first accessible EV and the first SUV.

The immersive experience with the Lotus Eletre begins before the driver has reached the car. Pressing the button on the key or smartphone app activates a moment of theatre that’s unique in the automotive world. The car’s exterior lights run through a short sequence, the active front grille ‘breathes’ and the illuminated flush door handles deploy. The experience is repeated inside the car as the door closes behind the occupant.

Ben Payne, Head of Studio at LTCC, said: “This walk-up sequence is a ‘peacock moment’ – a little ‘showing-off’ that highlights the Eletre’s engaging personality. It’s a visual expression of a car coming to life, and a metaphor for the reinvention of the Lotus business and brand which begins with the Eletre.”

From the very earliest discussions about the car and its position at the heart of the Vision80-led transformation of Lotus, the Eletre was to be a showcase for how a Lotus can deliver performance-oriented driving thrills and refinement outside of the traditional sports car segments.

It is ‘Born British Raised Globally’ and that is more than a slogan. It has defined a rewarding collaborative process which has set the standard for the development and quality of the next generation of Lotus performance cars.

The fundamentals of what makes the Eletre a Lotus were established in Hethel, UK – the iconic home of Lotus since 1966. The global Lotus team worked together to deliver the strategic direction for the forthcoming range of Lotus lifestyle vehicles, plus the dynamic development, systems integration, aerodynamic optimisation and overall driver satisfaction of the Eletre.

A new Lotus research and development facility, established in China in 2020, utilises the market’s leading intelligent technologies and digital competencies to build the Eletre – and a new generation of electric high performance vehicles – at an all-new state-of-the-art manufacturing centre. Teams at Lotus Tech Innovation Centre (LTIC) in Raunheim, Germany, have assisted with component integration, durability testing, certification and homologation, with experts from the engineering team in Gothenburg, Sweden, working on the car’s EV management systems.

Exterior design: daring and dramatic

Design of the Lotus Eletre has been led by Ben Payne. His team has created a daring and dramatic new model with a cab-forward stance, long wheelbase and very short overhangs front and rear. Creative freedom comes from the absence of a petrol engine under the bonnet, while the short bonnet echoes the styling cues of Lotus’ iconic mid-engined layout. Overall, there’s a visual lightness to the car, creating the impression of a high-riding sports car rather than an SUV. The ‘carved by air’ design ethos which inspired the Evija and Emira is immediately obvious.

Ben commented: “The Eletre is a progressive all-electric performance vehicle embodying emotion, intelligence and prestige and, as the first of the brand’s lifestyle cars, it sets the standard for what will follow. We have taken the iconic design language of the Lotus sports car and successfully evolved it into an elegant and exotic Hyper-SUV.”

A signature element of the design is its ‘porosity’ – the aerodynamic principle of air flowing through the car as well as under, over and around it. Porosity was at the heart of the Evija’s design, is integral to the Emira, and has provided clear inspiration for the Eletre. It is most obvious where air is channelled under the leading edge of the car, emerging through two exit vents in the bonnet above. There are other examples of porosity ahead of and behind the front wheel arches, behind the rear wheels, and even at the top of the D-pillar. For the driver there are clear benefits to porosity – less resistance in cutting through the air, delivering a more efficient journey in terms of improved vehicle range, speed and performance.

At the front of the Eletre, the very sharp and crisp leading edge reveals a clear lineage with the Emira and Evija. It draws a distinct line across the very striking and contemporary design treatment below. There are further echoes of Evija in the layering of the surfaces, the creation of space and the optimised aerodynamic performance.

Just above the leading edge are the very slim and technical light clusters which house the Daytime Running Lights and scrolling directional indicators. The main lamps, which are available with matrix technology to permit constant high beam use without affecting oncoming traffic, are housed below, recessed and partially hidden.

Lower down is the Eletre’s active front grille, a network of interconnecting triangular petals that dominate the central section. Intricately designed, they remain closed when the car is at rest or when there’s a need to reduce drag during driving. They open in a distinctive pattern to feed air into the radiator, allowing the Eletre to ‘breathe’ when cooling of the electric motors, battery pack and front brakes is required. It’s a further example of the car’s porosity and also offers aerodynamic benefits.

Overall there is a unique sense of flow and a kinetic quality to the Eletre’s front end, which also includes a deployable LIDAR sensor mounted at the top of the windscreen. All the black components are finished in carbon fibre while the body panels are aluminium. It is the bold leading edge of the Eletre’s bonnet which continues round into the front wing, wheel arch and ultimately the length of the vehicle as a feature line. The car’s taut and muscular lines are dominant above it, while the aerodynamic elements are below.

Moving round the car, its muscular haunches dominate the profile view. The air outlet immediately behind the front wheels defines the sculpted shape of the doors, each of which has a flush handle. The electrically opening cover for the charging port is fitted in the front wing, as are the deployable LIDAR sensors, one on each side and a world-first technology for the Eletre.

The aggressive rake of the windscreen is clearly visible in profile, with a relatively narrow, glass area – and black cantrail above – which tapers away dramatically at the rear. That leads into a unique floating D-pillar, engraved with the Eletre wordmark and featuring an innovative ‘air blade’ which aids drag reduction. Another example of porosity, it’s an aerodynamic performance enhancement taken directly from the front bumper of the Emira.

Each door mirror is replaced by an Electric Reverse Mirror Display (ERMD), which houses three different cameras1 – one for the rear-view mirror, a second to help create a 360-degree view of the car from above to aid parking, and a third that’s part of the intelligent driving technologies. It works in tandem with the Eletre’s LIDAR system to deliver autonomous driving capability. The car rides on 23-inch machine-cut split-finish five-spoke alloys with carbon fibre inserts to aid air flow and ceramic composite 10-piston caliper brakes2.

Moving to the rear, the full-width ribbon light strip picks up the feature line from the profile. Situated just above the Lotus wordmark, it is red when the car is moving and includes a scrolling directional indicator at each end, where it curves gently into the air outlets from the wheel arches – another design cue which echoes both the Emira and Evija. The light can appear in four colours, playing a role in the car’s theatrical unlocking sequence and indicating battery charge status.

The rear is dominated by the unique cantilevered carbon fibre ‘floating’ split roof spoiler, a motorsport-inspired design feature that evokes race car winglets. With the central section removed weight is saved – a very Lotus concept – and allows the LIDAR sensor to be integrated at the top of the glass. Optimised for exceptional aerodynamics, the roof spoiler channels airflow down the glass and into the active tailgate spoiler which is deployed automatically at speed. It has three distinct deployment angles, depending on the drive mode selected.

Interior design: a new level of premium for Lotus

The Eletre takes Lotus interiors to an unprecedented new level. The performance-oriented and technical design is visually lightweight, using ultra-premium materials to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Shown with four individual seats, this is available to customers alongside the more traditional five-seat layout. Above, a fixed panoramic glass sunroof3 adds to the bright and spacious feeling inside.

Sustainability has been a core focus of the design team, which has worked with leading supplier Kvadrat on material choices. The interior uses premium feel and highly durable man-made microfibres on the primary touchpoints, and an advanced wool-blend fabric on the seats. It is 50% lighter than traditional leather, allowing for further weight savings. The hard materials are carbon fibre, though rather than use the traditional ‘weave’ most often associated with automotive design, Lotus has recycled the fibres trimmed from the edge of the weave. These have been reconstructed into a new matting, then compressed in a resin to create the car’s premium marble-like finish.

The driver-focused cockpit and high centre console are inspired by the Lotus Emira and Evija, creating a cossetted feeling. The layering of materials and textures creates a truly premium feel, augmented by a triangular theme – seen externally on the car’s active front grille – replicated in multiple locations around the cabin.

The Lotus philosophy of light-weighting – removing material if it’s not needed – is clearly illustrated in the instrument panel. The floating wing’s central section has been taken out, echoing the design of the rear spoiler.

There is a wealth of practical storage space in the Eletre’s cabin. The centre console includes a storage tray with wireless charging for mobile phones, as well as twin cupholders of different sizes which sit flush to the surface until they’re needed. The beautifully sculpted door design includes storage that will take a litre bottle.

The smart design is continued in the rear of the car, with space in the doors and between the two chairs. There is a central draw at knee height and the armrest splits behind the two cupholders. It ends in an angled nine-inch touch-screen for infotainment, with a wireless charging tray beneath.

Infotainment and technology: a world-class digital experience

The infotainment experience in the Eletre sets new standards in the automotive world, with pioneering and innovative use of intelligent technologies. The result is an intuitive and seamless connected experience. It is a collaboration between the design team in Warwickshire and the Lotus team in China, who have huge experience in the fields of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX).

Below the instrument panel a blade of light runs across the cabin, sitting in a ribbed channel that widens at each end to create the air vents. While it appears to be floating, the light is more than decorative and forms part of the human machine interface (HMI). It changes colour to communicate with occupants, for example, if a phone call is received, if the cabin temperature is changed, or to reflect the vehicle’s battery charge status.

Below the light is a ‘ribbon of technology’ which provides the front seat occupants with information. Ahead of the driver the traditional instrument cluster binnacle has been reduced to a slim strip less than 30mm high to communicate key vehicle and journey information. It’s repeated on the passenger side, where different information can be displayed, for example, music selection or nearby points of interest. Between the two is the latest in OLED touch-screen technology, a 15.1-inch landscape interface which provides access to the car’s advanced infotainment system. It automatically folds flat when not required. Information can also be displayed to the driver via a head-up display featuring augmented reality (AR) technology, which is standard equipment on the car.

While every element of the Eletre can be controlled digitally, certain key controls are duplicated with analogue switches – another nod to the simplicity for which Lotus is famed. Voice control through advanced speech recognition technology is also available.

The technical look, compact size and premium feel of the steering wheel delivers maximum comfort, performance and usability. Visually lightweight, it houses switchgear for the adaptive cruise control and infotainment system. Both it and the driver’s seat move back to create more space for ingress and egress, returning to the pre-set position as the door is closed.

The standard audio system on the car is provided by renowned British brand KEF. Called KEF Premium, it is a 1,380-watt 15-speaker set-up with Uni-QTM and surround sound technology. Uni-Q dispenses with separated tweeter and mid-range speakers, instead combining both into an acoustically idealised single unit. It covers the entire mid and high-frequency sound spectrum from a single point in space, delivering a more coherent, hyper-realistic sound experience.

Customers can upgrade to KEF Reference, a 2,160-watt 23-speaker system with Uni-Q and 3D surround sound technology. KEF Reference also features Uni-CoreTM, a pioneering new approach to speaker and subwoofer design, and the Eletre marks its debut in the automotive world. It uses two dual force-cancelling drivers with concentrically arranged and overlapping voice coils, driven by a single motor. This enables high-level performance while reducing the subwoofer or speaker volume significantly. Both KEF Premium and KEF Reference feature partially exposed speakers in the doors, a very technical execution and beautiful design feature.

At the core of the Eletre’s UI/UX is the Lotus attribute of simplicity, which is realised through three pillars. The first is ‘lightweight’, a name given to both the system components and the experience. For example, with three touches of the main screen users can access 95% of the car’s functionality. The second pillar of ‘intelligence’ means the system is versatile, creating a vehicle which is fully customisable through the settings menu. The final pillar is ‘immersive’, with carefully crafted and curated content and interactions that excite and engage occupants – a very Lotus attribute. This includes the on-screen three-dimensional world in which the car is viewed, showcasing the Eletre as the hero and adopting user experiences from the worlds of gaming and mobile technology.

Technology is used for much more than infotainment on the Eletre. It is also at the heart of the car’s comprehensive suite of intelligent Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), many of which are designed to be futureproof so new features can be enabled via Over The Air (OTA) updates. Several utilise the LIDAR system; its deployable sensors are hidden when not required, ensuring the car’s striking design shines through and only emerging from the top of the windscreen, the top of the rear glass, and from the front wheel arches as required.

The LIDAR system means the Eletre supports end-to-end autonomous driving technology and is future-proofed for further development, achievable because of the hardware that’s already integrated. Further capability can be added via OTA software updates, as and when it is allowed by local market regulation.

Maximilian Szwaj, Vice President of Lotus Technology and Managing Director, LTIC, commented: “The Eletre is packed with relevant technologies which take Lotus to a new level in the premium lifestyle segment, and also sets new standards across the global automotive landscape. ADAS technologies such as LIDAR sensors and cameras will become increasingly common on new cars as we move into a more autonomous era, and to have the world’s first deployable LIDAR system on the Eletre is a signal of the technology vision we have for Lotus. This car has tech for today, and also for tomorrow, as it’s been developed to accept OTA updates as standard. I’m hugely proud of what the LTIC team, working in close collaboration with colleagues in China, has achieved.”

The Eletre is available with Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Collision Mitigation Support Front (CMSF); Traffic Sign Information (TSI); Door Open Warning (DOW); Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA); Front Cross Traffic Alert (FCTA); Lane Change Assist (LCA); Children Presence Detection (CPD); Lane Keep Aid with Lane Departure Warning / Prevention (LKA+); Parking Emergency Brake (PEB); Collision Mitigation Support Rear (CMSR); and Emergency Rescue Call (E-Call). There are i-Size child seat anchor points on the outboard rear seats.

The latest connectivity technology, including 5G compatibility, is part of the Eletre package. This enables continuous connection to the car via smartphone app, OTA software updates and the ability for customers to purchase new features enabled via software as they become available. A smartphone app for Eletre owners will include access to driving logs, vehicle and charge status, remote features, location services and a host of other functionality.

A dedicated all-new EV platform delivering outstanding performance

Gavan Kershaw, Director, Attributes and Product Integrity, Lotus, has been involved in defining the attributes of the Eletre from the very start, and continues to lead the Hethel-based dynamics team in their collaborative work with colleagues in China, Sweden and Germany.

He said: “Dynamically, the Eletre has been developed to deliver everything you would expect from a Lotus – outstanding ride and handling, highly communicative steering and exceptional driver engagement. From a performance perspective, we know the world is watching so there has been an obsession with getting everything just right. Everyone is delighted with it – it’s a world-class product and a true Lotus.”

The Eletre is built on an all-new 800v dedicated electric vehicle architecture with integrated, high-voltage power distribution system. This architecture uses aluminium and high tensile steel for optimum structural rigidity. The flat ‘skateboard-style’ battery pack and electric motors are close to the ground to create a low centre of gravity and deliver on the core Lotus commitment of outstanding dynamic performance. The high energy density of the battery pack provides the best possible balance of performance and driving range. There are two electric motors, one driving the front wheels and another driving the rear wheels. A three-in-one electric drive system integrates each motor with a controller and reducer, an efficient design which makes the unit smaller and lighter – a very Lotus solution.

Every Eletre comes with exceptional dynamics, outstanding comfort and true Lotus performance. The car has five-link suspension at the rear for optimised ride and handling, while standard equipment includes air suspension and Continuous Damping Control (CDC). Active ride height, active rear axle steering, an active anti-roll bar and torque vectoring via braking are all available.

The car comes with four drive modes, which adjust the steering, damper settings, powertrain and accelerator pedal response. The modes are Range, Tour, Sport, Off-Road and Individual, and are standard on all versions of the car.

Lotus Eletre (target specification)

  • Power and performance
  • Power (hp): from 600
  • Battery (kWh): 100+
  • Top speed (km/h / mph): 260 / 161
  • 0-100km/h (secs): < 3.0
  • Max range WLTP (km / miles): 600 / 373
  • Length: 5,103mm
  • Width with Electric Reverse Mirror Displays: 2,135mm
  • Width with door mirrors: 2,231mm
  • Height: 1,630mm
  • Wheelbase: 3,019mm

  • 1 – Eletre is fitted with standard mirrors in markets where local regulations do not allow ERMD
  • 2 – 23-inch wheels and ceramic brakes are optional in all markets
  • 3 – Panoramic glass sunroof is optional in markets outside China

Kia Sportage Unveiled Ahead Of Regional Launch

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– Press Release –

The all-new Kia Sportage is gearing up for an unmissable launch in the Middle East & Africa Region

  • Fifth generation Sportage looks to the future with a sleek yet muscular and modern exterior design
  • Cutting-edge interior blends ergonomic layout and the latest tech innovations to create an inspiring space
  • Kia’s acclaimed ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy at the heart of Sportage’s youthful appearance

28 March 2022, Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Kia Corporation has today announced the official launch of the stunning all-new Sportage in the region, an SUV that has been carefully constructed to inspire customers with its striking interior and exterior design.

The 2023 Kia Sportage is ringing in a new era for one of the brand’s most sought-after models, with a comprehensive redesign that is unquestionably dramatic. The fifth-generation model challenges design norms and moves the Sportage identity to the next level, while paying homage to its rich heritage.

“Reinventing the Sportage provided our tremendously talented design teams the opportunity to curate something completely different; to take inspiration from our brand relaunch to inspire customers through contemporary and pioneering SUV design. With the all-new Sportage, we wanted to take more than just one step forward, instead we moved it on to a different level in the SUV class,” commented Karim Habib, Senior Vice President of Head of Global Design Center.

“As Kia’s flagship SUV, the all-new Sportage is as practical as it is compelling, offering copious amounts of space, and a modern suite of hi-tech features that cater to the interests and demands of seasoned drivers and passengers. The all-new design offers customers the opportunity to drive a Kia Sportage that is redefining the rules of SUV design. Bringing spontaneity and modernity to the SUV class, our new Sportage will provide customers with a vehicle that encompasses a clever combination of practicality, functionality and versatility,” said Yaser Shabsogh, Chief Operating Officer of Middle East and Africa, Kia Corporation.

Kia’s new design philosophy – Opposites United – is at the core of the all-new Sportage, inspiring every aspect of its appearance and confident persona. The thought-provoking and daring philosophy strengthens the connection between design and Kia’s brand direction ‘Movement that inspires’.

Opposites United is formed of five pillars: Joy for Reason, Power to Progress, Technology for Life, Tension for Serenity and Bold for Nature. The last pillar – Bold for Nature – has profoundly influenced the design creation of the all-new Sportage, embodying the natural world and creating a design identity that takes a daring, emotional, modern but organic form.

Raising the bar on exterior SUV design

Inspired by ‘Opposites United’, the exterior epitomizes contrast with its bold, impactful lines and assertive presence, balanced with innovation and instinctive characteristics suitable for any road, anywhere.

Tense and crisp lines ripple along the refined body, amplifying dramatic styling tensions. At the same time, clean but muscular surfaces join forces with intricate graphics to give the SUV a dynamic and assertive road presence.

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. Like an intricate web, the technical graphic pulls together the main frontal features of the all-new Sportage, crafting an imposing front volume. The elongated grille links Kia’s modern signature Tiger Nose grille – that acts as the visual focal point of the car – to the distinctive futuristic-styled boomerang-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lamps), which in turn create solid boundary lines for the striking Matrix LED head lamps.

The side profile of the all-new Sportage stays true to its sports utility DNA, creating a stirring road presence with taut lines cutting across clean but refined body surfaces that seamlessly blend the contrasting volumes together. Representing a first of the Sportage range, a black roof – a different color paint option to the vehicle’s body – is not available with the new model, helping to accentuate the sporting profile and highlight the architecturally dynamic C-pillar. The addition of a chrome beltline kicks up onto the rear of the all-new Sportage and into the D-pillar, creating harmonious lines with the rear spoiler that further adds to the sporting pedigree of the car.

At the rear, the all-new Sportage maintains strong road presence with a muscular swooping fastback design that flows into the rear lamps, allowing the SUV to personify strength and stability. The razor rear lamps are connected by a slim horizontal design, giving the all-new Sportage a stunning wide impression from the back.

Depending on spec and model, the 2023 Sportage rides on 17-inch, 18-inch or range-topping 19-inch wheels, with a choice of five different alloy designs, colors and finishes.

Ultra-modern interior space

The interior of the all-new Sportage plays with boldness in character, offering intuitive and innovative in technology, to create a driver-orientated space that is truly state-of-the-art.

The interior was designed with both operator and passenger in mind, offering a unique high-tech environment that is visually impressive, as well as spacious and intuitive. At the center of the all-new Sportage’s modern cabin sits a beautifully sculpted integrated curved display with a slim touchscreen pad and finely detailed air vents. The curved display sweeps across the front of the interior, giving the cockpit dramatic width and depth.

The high-tech 12-inch touchscreen and advanced integrated controller act as the nerve center for driver and passenger connectivity, functionality, and usability needs. Both systems have been created to be easy-to-use, highly intuitive, and soft to touch. The 12-inch instrument cluster is equipped with the latest-generation full thin-film-transistor liquid-crystal display for incredibly precise and clear graphics.

An ergonomic center console has been optimally positioned for the driver and front passenger, providing storage, operating system configuration, cupholders and soft-touch switches, the latter sitting on a raised profile alongside the shift-by-wire transmission dial.

Throughout the cabin, the highest quality materials that are opulent to touch have been used, while dynamic and vibrant color options add vibrancy and energy. The driver and front passenger seats combine innovation and comfort in a sporting slim shell design.

Further enhancing passenger convenience, at the rear of the driver and front passenger seats are integrated hanger-type designs within the slim headrests, allowing clothing and handbags to be easily and conveniently hooked into place.

Fully immersive, in-car surround sound is delivered to the occupants of the all-new Sportage via an industry-leading speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system.

At the heart of the all-new Sportage lies efficiency, power and performance

The all-new Sportage launches with a comprehensive range of powerful, responsive and efficient powertrains, including the very latest-generation clean gasoline and diesel engine technology.

From the very start of development, all-new Sportage was intended to embrace the latest powertrain technology breakthroughs, making it one of the most efficient and eco-friendly SUVs available.

From the launch, a high-tech 1.6-liter TGDI powertrain will be offered in the all-new Sportage line-up, generating 180PS and 27.0kgf.m torque. The four-cylinder unit realizes enhanced fuel efficiency through a new and optimized combustion process, breakthrough cooling technologies and key friction reduction measures, including an advanced integrated thermal management system and the use of a low-friction ball bearing.

Leading the way in Safety

The all-new Sportage is home to the very latest passive, active and ADAS safety technologies. With safety being top priority during development, the fifth generation Sportage is one of the safest vehicles in its class.

Underneath the sleek and contemporary exterior design of the all-new Sportage is a reinforced and lightweight body structure that has high torsional rigidity. All-new Sportage has different safety restraint and structure system applications, including driver airbag, passenger airbag, side curtain airbags and low-side airbags.

Kia’s acclaimed in-house developed Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology helps the Sportage to avoid potential hazards, fully protecting occupants and other road users on every journey. As part of its ADAS package, the all-new Sportage features Kia’s industry-leading Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which helps avoid collisions with objects in front of the vehicle while driving.

When operating the turning signal to change lanes, if there is a risk of collision with a rear-side vehicle, a new Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) system will provide a warning to the driver. After the warning, if the risk of collision increases, BCA actively controls the all-new Sportage to help avoid a collision. BCA is also active in situations such as parallel parking maneuvers, further helping to avoid collision with rear-side vehicles. Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) is also included on the all-new Sportage and further enhances safety and driver visibility when changing lanes by displaying a real-time rear-side image of the vehicle in the instrument cluster.

Each regional market to launch independently throughout the month of April. More information on the pricings and specs in each market will be made available in due course.

Autovaz Soldiers On, Despite Renault Retreat

Concise and to the point, if not especially detailed, Autovaz’s statement does not go into detail about the legalities, or lack of, as they pertains to the French manufacturer’s contractual obligations, nor does it bring up the possibility of Russian nationalization of Renault assets and investments, which leads one to conclude that a rapprochement in relations remains a possibility on the horizon.

However, the statement does allude to a reduced output over the summer vacation period, until supply chains are restored, with interim Lada models being produced using a reduced number of imported parts, so as to fulfill obligations to customers, employees, dealers and partners in Russia and abroad.

– Press Release –

AVTOVAZ GROUP STATEMENT

24 March 2022, Tolyatti, Russian Federation – Further to recent announcement by Renault Group, the management of the AVTOVAZ Group is closely monitoring the situation and is in constant contact with federal and regional authorities, as well as with the Company`s shareholders. Over the past weeks, all possible measures have been taken to ensure the preservation of the jobs of our 40,800 employees. In particular, we decided to pull ahead this Summer corporate vacation to 4-24 April 2022, and we will do our best to use this period to restore our supply chains. In addition, active work is underway to substitute some critical imported components with alternative solutions. The company is also preparing special versions of some LADA models with reduced exposure to imported components. These will be available to our customers in the coming months, progressively.

AVTOVAZ Group is aimed to fulfill its obligations towards its employees, suppliers, dealers and partners throughout the Russian Federation and export markets.

Maserati Grecale To Launch In Second Half, 2022

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– Press Release –

Maserati Grecale is the Everyday Exceptional

Grecale, the extraordinary everyday SUV: Versatile, spacious and smart, fast and fun, An elegant and unforgettable sound experience.

22 March 2022, Modena, Italy Here comes Maserati Grecale, the new SUV to make everyday life exceptional. This is the Maserati style, the perfect, bold synthesis of avant-garde and passion, innovation and timeless design. An SUV to be driven anytime, anywhere, by anyone, to turn journeys into something extraordinary.

Grecale takes the name of a wind and is a range within the range. It fulfils all requirements with every kind of powertrain: conventional combustion and hybrid engines, with the full-electric Grecale Folgore on the horizon, destined to become the first 100% electric SUV in Maserati history.

Our research into colours, materials and specifications begins with the brand’s identity. Based on its singularity and evolution of Made in Italy, geographic uniqueness and cosmopolitan spirit, elegance, comfort and pure driving pleasure.

GT, Modena, Trofeo: these are the three versions available at launch. Each version is an account of different aspects of the same over-arching theme.

Grecale GT, with its four-cylinder 300-hp mild hybrid, recalls the city and its contemporary minimalism. It is intended for world citizens and their dynamism, curiosity and fashion consciousness, but is also in constant search for a style that makes itself personal.

Grecale Modena, equipped with a four-cylinder 330-hp mild hybrid, has an innate, timeless elegance and unleashes the charm of nature lovers who make the most of their free time.

Finally, Grecale Trofeo, with a powerful 530-hp V6, represents pure adrenaline, where the car’s disruptive performance becomes the perfect tool to take up your very own personal challenge.

Three different ways of interpreting Grecale, but there’s more. An entire range that becomes a canvas to plot your own lifestyle on, one day after another.

Recognisable traits of the everyday exceptional that translate into the three colours at launch: the GT version comes in Bronzo Opaco, an enveloping and silky matte hue; Modena is Grigio Cangiante (iridescent grey), made possible by an interposed three-layer paint with effects inspired by the freshness of summer light; Trofeo comes in Giallo Corse, a powerful expression of the unbreakable bond between Maserati and Modena, a shade that combines the city’s two heraldic colours, with a yellow base and a blue mica, for the sportiest look.

Grecale is all about comfort, versatility and the sound experience: just immerse yourself in the 360° sound, courtesy of the engine’s unmistakable roar and the Sonus faber audio system with 3D sound and up to 21 speakers.

Grecale is all about being smart and touch-based. Interact with the various displays: the classic cluster, the new 12.3” central screen – the largest ever seen in a Maserati, and a smaller 8.8” comfort display with extra controls and the new digital clockface.

Grecale is all about innovation courtesy of the new technical specifications, including the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, the latest infotainment, comfort display, and the Heads-up Display, available as an option.

To top off the driving experience, the extraordinary dynamics with five configurable drive modes – Comfort, GT, Sport, Corsa (Trofeo only) and Off-Road – mean you can shift from the most user-friendly mood in the utmost comfort to the powerful emotions of extreme responsiveness and potency.

Like an outfit, jewellery or a work of art you select for your home, Grecale serves as a means to identify yourself as someone who always stands out from the crowd. Grecale is an exceptional experience, every day.

Highlights

  • The new Maserati Grecale SUV is “The Everyday Exceptional”: with the right balance between sportiness and elegance, it inaugurates a new segment for the Brand.
  • Grecale embodies the concepts of innovation, versatility and luxury: it is a best-in-class SUV in terms of spaciousness and comfort.
  • The new Maserati SUV is available in the GT version, equipped with a four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of 300 hp, in the Modena with a four-cylinder 330-hp mild hybrid engine, and in the high-performance Trofeo with a 530-hp V6.
  • In the future, the Grecale range will be completed with the Full-Electric version, the first fully electrified SUV in Maserati’s history, due on the market one year after the petrol model and using 400V technology.
  • Superior performance in terms of driveability and handling. Top speed: 285 km/h. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds (data refers to the Trofeo version).
  • At launch, the Grecale is also available in the PrimaSerie Launch Edition, a limited edition featuring exclusive content.
  • Innovative technical specifications, including the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, the latest infotainment, comfort display, digital clock and the Heads-up Display, available as an option.
  • An all-round sound experience is guaranteed by the iconic signature sound of the Maserati engine paired with the immersive Sonus faber multi-dimensional sound system.
  • The new Maserati Grecale will be available in the second half of 2022.

W Motors Ghiath Smart Patrol: Dubai’s Latest, Most Functional Police Exotic

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With the first 10 vehicles already delivered, and the rest to be delivered over the next 5-years, the Ghiath is set to become a regular sight on Dubai roads, but is nevertheless already somewhat familiar to keen observers, in it proportions. Based on the Nissan Patrol, the Ghiath’s appearance is a more aggressive take on the Japanese manufacturer’s popular SUV, and features slim deep-set headlights, more pronounced surface creases and jutting bumpers, not to mention new alloy wheels, front and rear nudge bars and of course, Dubai Police livery, as worn by the their much-publicized fleet of exotic supercars.

That said, and despite the Ghiath’s provenance being that of a supercar maker, it is however a functional daily police vehicle developed by the brand’s special projects division, rather than a show piece. Festooned with plenty of police lights, badges and decals, the Ghiath is a high tech police vehicle that is equipped with a 360-degree deployable camera, 8 exterior surveillance cameras, facial and license plate recognition system, integrated 16-inch central screen, powerful control centre-linked onboard computer, dispatcher-connected android tablet, driver behaviour camera, boot compartment for rescue and safety equipment, and a custom drone box with an advanced drone on board.

– Press Release –

W Motors’ GHIATH SMART PATROL joins Dubai Police Fleet

First batch of 10 custom-built, highly advanced security vehicles delivered during World Police Summit at Expo 2020

17 March 2022, Dubai, UAE – His Excellency Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-chief of Dubai Police, said the force is adding 400 Ghiath smart police patrols over the next five years, a deal worth 196 million dirhams ($ 54.4 million).

Lt. Gen. Al Marri made the announcement during the official launch of the second generation of the Ghiath Smart Patrol in partnership with W Motors and Safe City Group, where he also confirmed the first batch of 10 vehicles has been delivered during the World Police Summit at Expo 2020, and they are on display from 14th – 17th of March 2022.

Lt. Gen. Al Marri said they were delighted with the outcome of the Ghiath Smart Patrol project and appreciate the support of W Motors in realising this cutting-edge patrol car that has now joined Dubai Police’s fleet. “The features and capabilities of the Ghiath are exactly in line with our requirements and allow us to stay at the forefront of international security vehicle standards. Both Dubai Police and W Motors have a shared vision for continuous advancement in the mobility sphere, and our officers look forward to using Ghiath to ensure public safety in Dubai,” he added.

The Ghiath Smart Patrol is one of the most advanced security vehicles in the world, and the first W Motors car to be fully produced in the UAE at the company’s Dubai Silicon Oasis facility. With the Ghiath, W Motors demonstrates that its capabilities go beyond the development of hypercars that initially put the company on the international motoring stage, following the introduction of its Lykan HyperSport and Fenyr SuperSport models.

Ghiath Smart Patrol is the first product developed under W Motors’ Special Projects Division, a fully integrated unit specialized in delivering turkey mobility solutions focused on security, defence, and smart technologies.

“We are proud to have delivered the first Ghiath Smart Patrols to Dubai Police. This is a milestone not only for W Motors, but for the UAE’s automotive industry as we pave the way for manufacturing high-tech and pioneering vehicles locally. From design and engineering to innovative software development, with Ghiath we have created a state-of-the-art security vehicle that is now ready for duty. This is only the start of our partnership with Dubai Police, with many more exciting collaborative projects yet to come,” said Ralph R. Debbas, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of W Motors.

“W Motors and Safe City Group have invested more than AED 100 million to develop the Ghiath project and more than AED 170 million to establish W Motors factory and the production line in Dubai Silicon Oasis, expected to be ready by Q4 2022”, he added.

The Ghiath Smart Patrol integrates highly advanced technologies, functionality, and reliability. Featuring W Motors’ distinctive DNA, the vehicle is modern and sleek, with strong lines highlighting powerful muscles. Exterior features include emergency lights, police lights, side steps, a 360-degree deployable camera, 8 exterior surveillance cameras, and a facial and license plate recognition system.

The interior was designed around the comfort and needs of police officers, with an integrated 16-inch central screen, a powerful onboard computer linked to the main control centre, a large passenger display, an android tablet connected to the dispatcher, a driver behaviour camera, in-cabin monitoring and front ADAS. The Ghiath Smart Patrol also features a custom-built rear bench, grills, a protective cage, a specially designed compartment in the boot to store rescue and safety equipment, as well as a custom-built drone box with an advanced drone on board.

The Ghiath Smart Patrol is part of a wider security and mobility programme currently being developed by W Motors and Dubai Police. The Ghiath fleet will soon be expanded with further vehicles to be added to the fleet, cutting-edge technologies and smart solutions will be integrated within the existing police fleet, and the mobility line will be expanded to include a Ghiath Drone Edition, SWAT vehicles, Rescue and First Responder vehicles, E-vehicles, E-Bikes and more.

Sabbagh Takes The Reins At Nissan Saudi Arabia, Concurrent With Regional Role

– Press Release –

Nissan Motor Company appoints Thierry Sabbagh as President for Nissan Saudi Arabia, Managing Director for Nissan Middle East

17 March 2022, Dubai, UAE Nissan has announced the appointment of Thierry Sabbagh as President of Nissan Saudi Arabia from April 1st 2022, while continuing his position as Managing Director of Nissan Middle East.

In his new scope, Sabbagh will work alongside the current Managing Director of Nissan Saudi Arabia, Bader El Houssami to lead the business strategy and performance for the Nissan brand in the Saudi market, while Sabbagh continues to spearhead 10 other Middle East markets as Managing Director.

An industry veteran with a deep and diverse understanding of corporate and automotive sectors, Sabbagh brings over two decades of comprehensive experience in sales, marketing, brand, planning and business development operations across MENA.

He joined Nissan in 2018 as Director of Sales, driving the sales performance for the brand across the Gulf, Levant, and North Africa markets, and has been leading the Middle East market as Managing Director since 2019, driving operational excellence and realising the Nissan NEXT business transformation goals in the region to foster sustainable business growth, building on the brand’s heritage of 70 years in the Gulf and wider Middle East.

Commenting on his appointment, Sabbagh said: “I am pleased to take on the role of president for Saudi Arabia and look forward to working with our leadership in this important market to continue growing our presence in the Middle East and take our operations in the region from strength to strength.”

“We remain committed to Nissan’s corporate purpose of enriching people’s lives with our products and technologies, towards realising our ambition of being recognized as the most trusted brand in the region among our customers, partners and employees.”

Sabbagh holds a bachelor’s degree in Business/Hotel Management in Marketing, from the University of West London and an executive certification in Leadership with Finance from Harvard Business School. He was recently recognized by Forbes Middle East in the Global Meets Local 2021 ranking of the top 50 business leaders in the Middle East.

In his new scope, Thierry Sabbagh will continue to report to Joni Paiva, Divisional Vice President of Africa, Middle East, India and Oceania.

Paiva commented on the announcement, saying: “The Middle East continues to be a region of opportunity for Nissan. We have been growth partners in the market for almost 70 years now, which gives us a deep understanding and appreciation of our customers’ needs, as well as a strong bond within the region itself. We are confident that Thierry will continue to build on our success in the region and foster strong collaborations to ensure both operational excellence and customer satisfaction across our markets.”

Nissan Pathfinder Finally Finds Way To Middle East

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Still built on a front-drive based platform, the Pathfinder’s design however better hides this with a longer rear overhang. Expected to do well with ‘soccer mom’ seven-seat school run crossover clientele, as its predecessor, the new Pathfinder is offered with a host of new and improved tech and driver assistance features, but retains Nissan’s now aging but still rewardingly high-revving 3.5-litre VQ-series V6 engine. The good news is that the new Pathfinder ditches its predecessor’s CVT transmission in favour of a 9-speed automatic, but any judgment on the new gearbox or Pathfinder as a whole, is reserved until it is made available and can be put through its paces.

– Press Release –

Nissan cements SUV leadership with the Middle East launch of the all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022

  • Building on the Pathfinder’s longstanding heritage, all-new fifth-generation model caters to customers’ needs in the Middle East with greater technology, capability, and luxury
  • Bold, new design complimented with Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) technologies including ProPILOT and Nissan Safety Shield 360 for greater safety and confidence
  • All-new 9-speed automatic transmission and proven V6 engine provide engaging driving experiences on- and off-road
  • Flexibility with a family focus – seating for up to eight, new captain’s chairs, all-new 12.3-inch digital dashboard, and 10.8-inch Head-up Display set the Pathfinder apart

07 March 2021, Dubai, UAE – Strengthening its SUV dominance in the Middle East, Nissan has announced the regional launch of the bold and versatile, all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 – a fifth generation that is inspired by the original model and the nameplate’s 35-year heritage. Building on the robust capabilities of its predecessors, the all-new Pathfinder has been completely redesigned from the ground-up, with a host of mechanical and technological upgrades to cater to the growing needs of families in the region.

Solidifying Nissan’s SUV dominance in the region, the all-new Pathfinder bolster Nissan’s SUV lineup and fills in the SUV-E segment, boosting the brand’s performance in a region where larger, premium SUVs are of high interest and demand. This all-new model is set to advance Nissan’s success, where it experienced an impressive increase in sales across the Gulf during the first nine months of its 2021 Fiscal Year (April– December 2021). Witnessing an increase of 9.9% in sales across the Gulf, the push in sales was driven by the UAE, which saw an increase of 17.7%, Bahrain which increased 36.2%, and a 37.7% increase in Kuwait when compared to the same period the year before.

Furthering the success of previous models, the fifth-generation Pathfinder fuses traditional with modern touches and emphasizes its bold design through a unique mix of elements and a strong identity. Elegant C-shaped LED lights, a signature V-Motion grille, and an all-new logo lend the Pathfinder a powerful presence while the diagonal C-Pillar, 3-slot grille, and bold fender arches echo the styling of its predecessors. Pathfinder badges inside and out, including bold lettering on the tailgate and door moldings solidify the SUV’s identity.

The introduction of the all-new model in the Middle East strengthens the brand’s popular SUV line-up and enhances its suite of Nissan Intelligent Mobility offerings with revolutionary technologies including ProPILOT and Nissan Safety Shield 360. Setting the all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 apart from its predecessors is also an all-new design that features a two-tone paint scheme for the first time ever on the Pathfinder and an all-new 9-speed automatic gearbox that offers 30% better acceleration than the outgoing model.

Thierry Sabbagh, Managing Director, Nissan Middle East, said: “The Pathfinder is an iconic SUV in the Middle East, one that has provided customers with luxury and the freedom to explore for several decades. Thirty-five years after the global launch of the original model, the arrival of the fifth-generation Pathfinder to this region is a strong testament to our dedication to serve customers by offering products that cater to their unique and adventurous lifestyles. Today’s large SUV owners want a vehicle that conveys strength and capability, without compromising on comfort, convenience, or safety and we are proud to deliver that with the all-new Pathfinder. Catering to a larger and more connected audience, the Pathfinder is set to build on our sales success and strengthen our SUV leadership across the region.”

Bold and Powerful Styling

Every inch of the all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 is carefully designed to convey a sense of strength and capability with a strong front face, wide stance, blister fenders and a shorter front overhang (versus the previous design). Offering customers, the luxury of choice, the all-new Pathfinder is available in three well-equipped grades – S, SV and SL – with each providing greater comfort, luxury, and capability.

The all-new fifth generation model pays homage to the original 1987 Pathfinder with design elements including bold wheel fenders, 3-slot grille, and a diagonal C-Pillar boasting a structural SUV design in line with its predecessors. Robust “U-shaped” highlights fuse the powerful fenders, providing a tough, muscular appearance while the dual power outside mirrors with LED turn signal indicators provide a distinctive touch of elegance. In the rear, the wide-aspect LED taillights wrap around the sides and highlight the model’s modernity, while the available motion-activated power liftgate returns to the boldness of the first-generation Pathfinder, including the oversized, satin chrome insignia.

The distinctive design of the new Pathfinder is modern yet recognizable which, along with standard 18-inch or available 20-inch machined alloy wheels, give it an authentic, robust SUV look. Characteristic Nissan DNA signature features are integrated into the new Pathfinder’s design, including a floating roofline and slim upper Daytime Running Lights.

The all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 is available in a choice of ten exterior colors, including premium colors such as Scarlet Ember Tintcoat and Pearl White Tricoat. An additional five two-tone paint schemes are also available, including Pearl White TriCoat/Super Black Metallic, Gun Metallic/Super Black Metallic, Boulder Gray/Super Black Metallic, Scarlet Ember TriCoat/Super Black Metallic and Obsidian Green Pearl/Super Black Metallic.

Modern and Luxurious Cabin

The interior of the adventure-ready Pathfinder features refined materials and a robust, open design. Driver and passengers are greeted with a modern, spacious environment that enhances comfort and versatility with heated and ventilated front seats, available 8-way power driver’s seat including 4-way power lumbar support and available 2-way power front passenger seat. Seating flexibility has been enhanced with standard 8-person capacity or, for the first time on the Pathfinder, premium second-row captain’s chairs for a 7-person capacity (available in the SL grade). The second-row bench seats now offers EZ FLEX one-touch release fold/slide with push button activation from both front and rear sides of the seats, making life easier for parents and backseat passengers alike.

The SUV’s cargo area has also increased, with a new easy-to-clean luggage box offering additional 54.4 liters of under-cargo storage. This is accompanied by a large center console storage box for tablets, laptops, and smartphones, in addition to a console pass-through area that adds an additional 13.4-liters of storage. Long trips will also be a breeze with a total of 16 beverage holders, 5 USB ports, a new storage shelf above the glove compartment, and standard Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control with second row climate control and rear roof vents.

Woven cloth, leather or premium quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seats are offered in a range of colors – Charcoal, Light Gray and Chestnut. Brushed bronze metallic accents are among the available interior “environments,” while new ambient interior lighting sets the mood for all adventures. Interior quietness has been greatly improved, with acoustic laminated front glass, thicker second-row glass, increased door and floor isolation, and a 60 percent increase in engine noise absorption. Outward visibility has been improved with slimmer pillars and door-mounted outside mirrors, while the available panoramic moon roof with one-touch open/close controls makes for a brighter and airier cabin.

Tech That Sets It Apart

The all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 offers the latest Nissan Intelligent Mobility (NIM) technologies including ProPILOT which eases driver workload by reducing the amount of acceleration, steering, and braking input under certain driving conditions, such as single-lane highway driving. Certain grades of the all-new Pathfinder also come equipped with Intelligent Cruise Control with Full Speed Range and Hold, as well as Remote Engine Start for added comfort and convenience.

Among the long list of striking features is a new, available 12.3-inch digital dashboard that provides drivers with a variety of easy-to-navigate screen options. NissanConnect featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is offered as standard, complemented with available wireless Apple CarPlay integration and available wireless smartphone charging pad. Complementing the digital dashboard is an available 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio system with an optional 10.8-inch Head-up Display in the SL grade.

Prioritizing the safety of those onboard, the all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 is fitted with Nissan Advanced Airbag system including ten airbags as standard, with the optional Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering enhanced protection through Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot intervention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure intervention, High Beam Assist, and Intelligent Forward Collision Warning. The standard Rear-View Monitor is enhanced with an available Intelligent Around View Monitor with a new high-resolution digital display on higher grades, as is NissanConnect with Navigation.

Freedom To Explore

Powering the all-new Pathfinder is a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine with Direct Injection Gasoline producing 271hp and 340 NM of torque. An all-new 9-speed automatic transmission is matched with the proven V6 engine, providing strong acceleration, and boosting driver confidence on and off the tarmac.

Offering customers, the freedom to confidently take on adventures, the all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 features an all-new Intelligent 4WD system with seven unique drive and terrain modes. The available 1,500 KGs maximum towing capacity allows drivers to confidently haul boats and trailers while the 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist ensure adequate stopping power in all scenarios.

The all-new Nissan Pathfinder 2022 is now available at Nissan’s partner network across the Middle East

Ford Everest Unveiled, EcoBoost Expected Soon

0

– Press Release –

Next-Generation Ford Everest Is Bold Outside, a Sanctuary on the Inside and Engineered For Adventure

  • Built tough and capable on the outside, next-gen Everest’s sanctuary-like interior provides occupants with a comfortable, safe, high-tech and inviting cabin designed for daily duties and long road-trips
  • Depending on market, Everest offers a choice of durable powertrains that includes a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6, its proven 2.0-litre turbodiesel engines and, from 2023, the 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine for select markets
  • Ford outlines its “always-on” commitment to customers, with a host of services centered around convenience on their terms, for an an ownership experience designed to make their lives easier

01 March 2022, Dubai, United Arab Emirates The next-generation Ford Everest makes its global debut today, blending adventure-ready capability with exceptional comfort and customer-focused technology in a rugged, refined and fun to drive SUV.

Engineered to excite, the next-gen Everest has been built for the adventurous – with capability at its core. Inside, premium levels of craftsmanship have created a quiet and refined sanctuary for up to seven, while class-leading technology and safety make every journey more memorable.

“When we started imagining the next-gen Everest, we started not at the beginning but at the end: With our customers,” said Ian Foston, chief platform engineer for Everest. “They’re people who like adventure, recreation and being able to go out with family and friends. Whether they’re conquering sand, rocks or city life, these customers appreciate the utility, capability and spaciousness of an SUV.”

Armed with more customer input than ever before, Foston said the objective for the next-gen Everest was clear: Tough on the outside, sanctuary on the inside, amazing capability underneath.

To showcase this, three grades of the next-gen Everest were presented at reveal; Sport, Titanium+ and a new flagship grade, Platinumi. A range of different variants and models will be available, depending on market, to meet the needs of our customers. Full details will be provided closer to in-market launch.

Rugged outside, a sanctuary within

Everest’s wider track and longer wheelbase enabled designers to create a more progressive, muscular appearance. Ford’s global design DNA is reflected in the C-clamp headlamps and strong horizontal upper grille bar. The front end also has a mix of horizontal and vertical elements, which add to the stable appearance.

On the sides, there is a strong shoulder line front to back, while the wider track results in a more dramatic swell over the wheels, enhancing the strong and modern look.

“We showed customers the Everest at several points during the design process, and their feedback was consistent: They loved the exterior with the strong and rugged design, but they also thought it was sleek and modern,” said Max Wolff, design director for China and Ford’s International Markets Group (IMG). “They said that the Everest would give them the confidence to go off-road; it looks like a proper SUV.”

What customers wanted on the interior was a different story. Inside, they wanted a sanctuary.

“One of the first things you’ll notice when you get into a new Everest is how quiet it is,” Wolff said. “We’ve all been in vehicles with multiple rows of seats, where you have to twist your head around and almost shout to be heard by passengers in the second or third rows. That’s an issue we wanted to solve for Everest, so the interior would be a quiet place in which you can easily talk to your family or friends and enjoy the journey together.”

Designers also put a lot of thought into the function and feel of the interior, taking inspiration from modern homes and bringing in plush materials, premium finishes and ambient lighting all in areas where customers can appreciate them the best.

Everest’s sense of spaciousness is amplified by the full-width coast-to-coast instrument panel and centre console with dual cupholder recesses, plus dash-mounted ‘pop out’ cupholders for front seat occupants. High-series models are equipped with integrated wireless charging, a svelte new leather trimmed e-Shifterii and an electric parking brake. Depending on the variant, heated and ventilated 10-way power adjustable memory function seats are available for the driver and 8-way for the passenger. Heated seats are also available for the second row, depending on the variant.

Access to the third-row seats is much easier thanks to second-row seats that slide further forward than before. Additionally, all occupants now have places to store their things and depending on the model, charge their devices with power outlets in all three rows.

Ford has prioritised flexible seating in the next-gen Everest; the second-row slides with a 60:40 split seatback and the 50:50 split third row in the seven-seater configuration can be folded at the touch of a button on high series models. Importantly, both the second- and third-row seats have been designed to fold flat to allow for long loads to be carried safely.

To stop items falling out of the back when the tailgate is lifted, Wolff’s team created a small lip, affectionately known as the “apple catcher” valley, at the rear of the cargo area. The team also created an underfloor storage space that helps keep the rear of the Everest organised.

Customer-focused technology

In addition to a more refined and comfortable interior, Ford focused on incorporating the latest connectivity and technology features into the next-gen Everest. Depending on trim level, Everest comes with 8- or 12.4-inch digital instrument panels that replace the traditional analogue clusters. Everest also features large, high-resolution portrait 10.1- or 12-inch touchscreens.

Next-gen Everest is loaded with Ford’s latest SYNC 4Aiii system, which comes customer-ready with its voice-activated communications, entertainment and information systems. Additionally, there’s an embedded factory-fitted modem, allowing customers to connect to Everest when linked with the FordPass Appiv,v. FordPass enhances the ownership experience with features like remote start, vehicle status check, and remote lock and unlock functions via your mobile deviceiv.

The portrait-orientated screen also is linked to a 360-degree camera with split-view display to make parking a breeze in tight urban spaces or to assist when negotiating particularly tricky terrain while out exploring. In addition, customers can control Everest’s new exterior zone lighting system via the touchscreen or the FordPass App i,v, which means they don’t have to park, work, camp or do anything in the dark.

New and proven engine line-up

Everest customers told Ford that they wanted more power and torque for towing, carrying heavy loads and off-roading, so the team selected Ford’s proven 3.0L turbodiesel V6 engine and refined it for the Everest. It is one of three turbodiesel engine options available at launch, depending on the marketi.

“The 3.0L turbodiesel V6 really delivers that big-engine torque and power customers want,” said Pritika Maharaj, Everest program manager. “It feels really tough in the sense that it’s got endless power and torque, but it is also refined and quiet on the road.”

While the new 3.0L turbodiesel V6 spearheads the line-up, next-gen Everest gives customers a choice of engines to suit their lifestyles, including Ford’s proven Single-Turbo and the Bi-Turbo 2.0 inline four-cylinder diesels and a 2.3L EcoBoost petrol engine. Depending on the model, either a six-speed automatic or Ford’s efficient 10-speed SelectShift automatic will be available.

“Regardless of engine, our customers can be confident that they have the power and torque they need whether they’re towing, heading off-road, or just heading off on a family adventure,” Maharaj said.

The Single Turbo diesel engine delivers power, torque and fuel economy, while the Bi-Turbo engine is a sophisticated, performance variant for customers who want more power but need to maintain fuel economy.

For petrol lovers, the powerful, direct-injection 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine delivers a broad, flat torque curve with maximum torque throughout the rev range. This proven EcoBoost engine underpins a range of Ford products globally and will be available on Everest in select markets from 2023.

Engineered for adventure

A 50mm increase in next-gen Everest’s track helps deliver a more controlled ride on-road, while tweaks to damper settings allowed the team to inject more fun and control into the Everest’s ride, both on- and off-road.

“Everest was always well regarded for its plush ride on- and off-road, but the track increase allowed our dynamics team to create a greater connection between vehicle and driver, with a more controlled fun to drive ride around town and on the highway,” said Foston.

Want to do some exploring? Next-gen Everest is ready to go, with a choice of two four-wheel drive systems, underbody protection and off-road selectable drive modes plus rear locking differential, two functional tow hooks upfront, and upfitter switches for accessories.

The two 4WD systems available are: A two-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case, also known as a part-time 4WD system; and an advanced, permanent four-wheel drive system that uses an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed electromechanical transfer case (EMTC) with selectable drive modes.

Depending on the market, Everest also is available with two-wheel drive.

Where available, Everest’s dedicated off-road screen displays vehicle information and a front camera view of the terrain ahead, with predictive overlay guidelines designed to help the driver negotiate obstacles. With a single button press, the driver can view their driveline and diff-lock indicators, steering angle and guides, and vehicle roll and pitch angles.

Next-gen Ford Everest has a water wading ability up to 800mm and a maximum braked trailer towing capability of up to 3,500kg (braked)vi, while space in the engine bay allows for a second battery to power aftermarket accessories.

Everest’s impressive towing capability is supported by smart technologies that make towing easier. A dedicated tow/haul drive mode has been tuned to optimise gear shift timing to maintain the best power delivery and engine braking when carrying loads, either in a trailer or in the cargo area. In addition, an integrated electric trailer brake controllervii helps deliver smooth and effective control of a trailer’s brake system. Everest’s new camera views help owners guide their SUV into position to connect a trailer, while integrated SYNC features such as trailer connection checklist and trailer light check help make the job easier. Where available, FordPass app users can also test the trailer lights with their smartphone.

The new integrated or stand-off roof rails are more than just a design detail; they’re engineered for adventure. The Everest rooftop can now support static loads of up to 350kg and dynamic loads of up to 100kg, providing increased versatility that enables it to carry bikes, canoes, cargo pod or roof-top tent. A universal mounting system allows customers to equip their vehicle with a range of accessories.

Confidence-inspiring driver assist technologiesviii

Everest comes loaded with new and enhanced driver assist technologies and safety features that are designed to take the stress out of driving and help drivers to remain focused.

In the next-gen Everest a new far-side airbag positioned between the driver and front passenger provides additional protection in the event of a side impact. Depending on the variant and the market, the addition of the far-side airbag and dual knee airbags brings the number of airbags up to nine, including front driver and passenger, dual seat side thorax airbags and dual side curtain airbags which cover all three rows, depending on the variant and the market.

With Active Park Assist 2.0ix, next-gen Everest can help the driver fit safely in tight spaces at the press of a button. The system takes care of the steering, gearshifts, acceleration and braking to navigate into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces with ease. It will also steer itself out of a parallel parking spot when prompted.

Next-gen Everest’s matrix LED head lamps, available on selected models by market, offer greater visibility thanks to a raft of clever features, including auto dynamic levelling and speed-dependent lighting that can adjust the intensity of the beam in front of the vehicle depending on the vehicle’s speed. The head lamps also offer both static and dynamic bending capability as well as glare-free high-beams, which help provide maximum visibility for the driver without dazzling other road users.

New to Everest is Ford’s adaptive cruise control system, available in three versions depending on market and model.

  • Adaptive cruise control with stop and go allows drivers to maintain a pre-set speed and distance from the car ahead and will even bring the car to a complete stop if required.
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centering is able to detect lane markings and help keep the vehicle centred in the lane.
  • Intelligent adaptive cruise control also adds speed sign recognition that can automatically adjust vehicle speed to the posted speed limit.

New and enhanced driver assist and safety features available in the next-gen Everest also include:

  • New: Lane-keeping system with road-edge detection, which helps keep the Everest from drifting from the carriageway on rural roads.
  • New: Evasive steer assist, designed to operate at city and motorway speeds, which uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles ahead and provides steering support to enable drivers to maneuver around a vehicle if a collision is imminent.
  • New: Reverse brake assist helps drivers to reverse into parking spots and other tight spaces by providing audible and visual warnings. It can detect a vehicle crossing or a cyclist or pedestrian behind the vehicle too. The system can even bring the Everest to a complete stop if the driver doesn’t react in time.
  • New – Blind spot information system with trailer coverage monitors blind spots around the vehicle and trailer and alerts the driver of any perceived hazards. The system supports trailers up to 2.4 metres wide and 10 metres long.x
  • Enhanced – Pre-collision assist with intersection functionality, which can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate the effects of accidents if the driver is turning across the path of oncoming traffic and the system determines an imminent collision

  • [i] Not all vehicle features are available in all variants or will be available in all markets. Some markets may not receive all variants. Precise specifications for each market will be confirmed prior to launch.
  • [ii] e-Shifter is only available on 4WD models.
  • [iii] Not all SYNC 4 features are compatible with all phones
  • [iv] Not all services will be available in all markets. Precise services available for each market will be confirmed prior to launch.
  • [v] Use of FordPass App is subject to the FordPass Terms and Privacy Policy and requires a compatible mobile device, internet access and software (including software updates from time to time). You are responsible for internet access, mobile network data and voice call services required for your use of the FordPass App on your mobile device, including associated fees. The FordPass App and the FordPass™ Connect modem can only work when both are connected to the telecommunications network. Ford cannot guarantee FordPass will be fully operational at all times and the App may be unavailable or particular services interrupted. Ford is not responsible for any limitations of the telecommunications network or your mobile device.
  • [vi] Maximum towing capacity-braked on diesel models with automatic transmission, using a Genuine Ford tow pack.
  • [vii] When using the Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, drivers must set the gain on the Braker Controller unit.
  • [viii] Driver-assist features are supplemental and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving.
  • [ix] Active Park Assist 2.0 is only available on vehicles that are fitted with an e-shifter.
  • [x] Trailer Coverage system supports conventional trailer dimensions: up to 2.4m wide (measured at trailer front) and up to 10m long from the rear of your vehicle. Drivers will need to create a profile of their trailers in SYNCÒ to support this system. 

Elisa Artioli Takes Delivery Of Last Eponymous Lotus Elise

Sadly discontinued as Lotus looks towards a future of arguably less visceral electric and electrified cars, the pared down, lightweight and back to basics Elise was the car that revived a faltering Lotus. Launched in 1995, during Roman Artioli’s stint as chairman of the iconic brand, it was on his insistence that the small new sports car was named after his then two-year old granddaughter, Elisa Artioli.

Already an owner of a first generation Elise given to her long before she could drive back in 1997, by her grandfather, Elisa’s latest Lotus is an Elise Sport 240 in Championship Gold and packing around twice the power as the original.

Morgan Super 3 Heralds New ‘Jet Age’

0

– Press Release –

INTRODUCING SUPER 3: THE ALL-NEW MORGAN

  • Morgan introduces Super 3. An all-new Morgan, Super 3, continues the 113-year legacy of three-wheeled Morgan vehicles
  • Built upon the company’s new three-part aluminium platform, Super 3 is the first Morgan with a monocoque structure
  • Powered by a 1.5-litre Ford three-cylinder engine, it significantly exceeds the power and performance figures of previous three-wheeled Morgan models
  • Super 3 introduces a new product family for Morgan, the design language of which draws inspiration from the jet age, an era in which function influenced form and horizons were broadened
  • Super 3 is focused on offering a unique motoring experience within which driver engagement and the pursuit of adventure is encouraged
  • The most configurable Morgan ever, Super 3 has been designed with a limitless combination of options and accessories for owners to tailor their vehicle
  • Super 3 is meticulously engineered, having undergone the firm’s most rigorous durability programme to date
  • Super 3 succeeds the 3 Wheeler, which was produced between 2011 and 2021
  • Available to order now, Super 3 is priced from £41,995 in the UK, with customer deliveries starting in June 2022

24 February 2022, Malvern, UK – The Morgan Motor Company today unveils Super 3, one of the most intriguing and distinctive vehicles the company has ever built. Super 3 has been designed from the ground up to offer new levels of character, thrill and adventure, principles that have defined Morgan’s three-wheeled product since the company was founded 113 years ago.

At the very heart of Super 3’s personality is its driving character. Primarily, a three-wheeled Morgan is a vehicle that entices you to get behind the wheel, offering a unique combination of mechanical feel, connection to the environment and visual differentiation from anything else on the road. Few vehicles will engage their occupants like Super 3, which encourages owners to feel present in the craft of motoring and entices them to embark on incredible adventures.

As the company’s most configurable model to date, Super 3 offers an extensive list of options and accessories that allow owners to tailor their own experience. From adventure touring accessories to race-inspired liveries, Super 3 adopts multiple personalities to reflect the individuality of its owner. Three expressions of these personalities can be seen on the launch vehicles.

Like every Morgan, Super 3 will be built in Malvern, Worcestershire, at the company’s Pickersleigh Road factory. Skilled craftsmen and women have been handcrafting cars in these hallowed red brick buildings since 1914, just five years after HFS Morgan invented the first Morgan, known as ‘The Runabout’.

Design

Overview

With Super 3, Morgan introduces a new design philosophy. In comparison with the outgoing 3 Wheeler, which was created in the style of the 1920s V-twin-engined three-wheelers, Super 3’s designers and engineers have drawn influences from the mid to late century. The jet age was an era in which there was a logical relationship between function and form, as the horizons of imagination were broadened.

Aerodynamic and mechanical requirements have heavily influenced the form and proportions of Super 3. This is most notable in the cast aluminium structures that provide the face of the vehicle, brace the engine and control the corner packages, while also directing air into the side-mounted cooling packs.

Two rectangular ‘diffuser plates’ – referred to as ‘sideblades’ – intelligently manage cooling requirements while also presenting a platform for panniers, luggage racks and liveries.

Super 3 is Morgan’s first clean-sheet design since the launch of the Aero 8 in 2000 and the company’s biggest visual departure since the 1962 Plus 4 Plus. Super 3 challenges the typical perceptions of Morgan design yet remains true to the company’s underlying principles and heritage.

The exact positioning of the engine – now car-derived and mounted in-board – within Super 3 is of crucial importance. Chosen in part due to its compact nature, the inline three-cylinder block sits precisely behind the front axle line, delivering optimum weight distribution and desirable proportion. The latter is a key principle for Morgan’s designers, who determine it vital that the body of the car is visually towed by its front wheels rather than sat on top of them. Super 3 has a mechanically intricate front end and exhibits linear geometry, which is intentionally contrasted against the trailing aerodynamic passenger compartment.

Honesty of design is one of Morgan’s key principles, and Super 3 embodies this wherever you look. Every feature – no matter how superficial it may appear – has an underlying mechanical purpose: the vehicle celebrates the marriage of design and engineering. Examples of this are prominent throughout Super 3. Features such as the metallic impressions in the footwell side panels, which stiffen the surface but are exposed as a design feature. Everything is honest, with reason.

Face

Super 3’s face portrays two familiar headlights and a horseshoe front grille, both recognisable elements of Morgan design. Mounted on the headlight pods are two small, machined aluminium turrets. These turrets house the indicators and position lights, satisfying wide field-of-vision requirements and resulting in the headlights themselves sitting lower and delivering a low-slung, purposeful aesthetic.

The engine resides beneath the nose cone, which is positioned deliberately to deliver both optimal weight distribution and desirable proportion. This visual mass sits directly behind the centre line of the front wheels and is a principle proportion of Super 3. Beneath the cowl, the engine is visible through a mesh with its moving mechanical components clear to see.

Bracing the engine are structural aluminium castings finished in silver or black. These castings support the engine and corner packages while also ducting air into the cooling packs. The mechanical requirements of these castings have delivered the character of Super 3’s face and have become a crucial design element.

All of the elements of Super 3’s wishbones, pull-rod suspension and headlight structure have been shaped to assist airflow to the radiators behind them, and the mechanical complexity is reminiscent of that of early-century three-wheeled Morgans. The headlight stalks themselves are structural, acting as an additional brace between the upper and lower wishbone pick-up points, while continuing to reflect the vehicle’s trihedral theme.

As well as providing an aerodynamic advantage, the pull-rod suspension brings dynamic benefits by reducing unsprung weight. In parallel with the shape of the front casting, it facilitates a free flow of air towards the side-mounted radiator packs. Visually, the setup reduces clutter and is yet another example of form and function being one and the same.

The engine mount strategy is unique to Super 3. Specifically, the Hartland Strut – named after the Morgan engineer that designed it – is the foremost mount and integral to the face of the car, while managing the torque reaction of the engine.

The front wheel design is by Morgan. The wheels’ positive offset allows for the longest possible suspension wishbones, with the brakes mounted far out. This maximises ride quality, handling and stability. The inside face of the wheel arches is closed-off, which works aerodynamically both to reduce wind noise and to help the flow of cooling air to the radiators behind them. To keep Super 3 looking proportionally correct, an all-new tyre has been developed with Avon (see driving dynamics, below).

Sideblades (diffuser plates)

One challenge faced during the creation of Super 3 was the desire to maintain a small footprint while also improving on the turning circle of the outgoing model. Sculpted castings carefully flank the engine, with rectangular radiators sitting outboard of these castings, and this limited the space available for the front wheels.

To overcome this challenge, the radiators have been encapsulated behind extremely thin and flat panels. On a jet aircraft, these panels would be referred to as ‘diffuser plates’; on Super 3, these ‘diffuser plates’ are referred to as the ‘sideblades’. The sideblades efficiently manage inbound and exhaustive airflow through the radiators.

Coincidently, this aesthetic reflects a long-standing Morgan design trait of a central body flanked by separate wing forms.

The sideblades also allow numerous luggage mounting options thanks to some uniquely designed universal fixings, also referred to as ‘accessory rails’. Owners can choose from a range of panniers and exo racks that are neatly fixed and secured to the sideblades. The feedback and experience of existing 3 Wheeler owners has been instrumental in determining Super 3’s adventure and touring credentials. During a decade of Morgan 3 Wheeler production, owners have taken their vehicles on road trips and adventures around the world. These adventures, combined with adventure motorcycle touring and overland vehicle design, provided inspiration to Super 3’s designers throughout the project.

Sideblades can be painted to match the main body colour or finished in a contrasting colour, and they provide a canvas for the application of decals and livery packs.

Tail

While the front end embodies mechanical honesty, the tail contrasts this with elegant, streamlined simplicity. An exposed rib forms a beltline around the vertical midpoint of the vehicle. This feature is a nod to traditional seam joining techniques deployed on mid-century aircraft fuselages, and it is often apparent in ‘belly tank’ racers and early jets. Beneath it lies a unique cut-off tailpipe design, a feature that would normally be impossible but which meets regulations due to its positioning inbound of this beltline.

A casting at the rear apex of Super 3 mirrors the texture and functional prowess of the front castings.  Primarily, the rear casting clamps the two sides of the monocoque structure together. However, it also houses the fog and reverse lights, provides a base for the number plate mount and obscures the all-important pressure relief venting for the rear wheel well. Furthermore, the rear casting integrates a hinge for the rear boot lid and optional luggage rack, and it allows this accessory to be lifted independently or in unison with the boot. Underneath the rear clamshell boot is an enclosure sculpted to provide maximum luggage capacity.

Interior

The interior of Super 3 has – necessarily, given its adventure credentials – been designed for resilience. Rated at an approved ingress protection level of IP64, any part of the interior is completely dust-tight and protected against water splashing from any direction, even down to the integrated USB sockets.

The minimalist dashboard features Morgan’s traditional centre-mounted dials, but for the first time in a Morgan they are fully digital. Their surrounds – available in both anodised black or silver finishes – are formed from metal, just like any touchpoint in the cabin, and are cold to the touch, giving a material authenticity. The engine start/stop button, inspired by the ‘missile release’ button on military aircraft, is carried over from the outgoing model.

A choice of seat materials includes vinyl, water-resistant leather, saddle leather with enhanced durability and a technical fabric that combines a high level of water resistance, UV resistance and ease of maintenance and which offers an appealing alternative to leather.

Available for the first time is a footwell heater, making Super 3 even more suitable for adventure, while comfort is further enhanced by a reach- and rake-adjustable steering wheel and a quick-release adjustable pedal box.

A universal fixing – the same as the ones mounted to the vehicle sideblades – is mounted under the dashboard and allows for a cup holder or Quad Lock phone mount to be fitted. Bungee cords can be fitted to the chassis impressions in the outer cockpit to provide a quick storage solution for coats, maps and small bags, while a discreet lockable underseat compartment allows more valuable items to be stored.

Jonathan Wells, Head of Design, Morgan Motor Company, said: “Morgan 3 Wheeler owners are individual, relish doing things in their own way, and actively seek adventure. With Super 3, we aimed to exaggerate these qualities through design.

“Super 3 stands out as something different. It looks towards our past, is relevant in the present, and reinstates a firm vision of Morgan’s design future.

“It felt natural to derive influences for Super 3 from the succeeding decades its 1920s inspired predecessor was paying homage to. During the ‘jet age’, the balance of form vs function was equalised. It was within these decades that the most aerodynamic forms were, not only required, but also admired.

“Morgan offers a unique cohesion of design, engineering and craft in all of its products, and this is especially apparent within Super 3.  No component is superfluous. Every part has a function and – in most cases – has more than one purpose. This approach has provided significant economic benefits and has allowed us to deliver an exceptional high quality throughout.

“Super 3 gives you a deep mechanical connection to the car and your surroundings. It takes the idea of adventure and escapism beyond just a romantic notion, whilst presenting a blank canvas for self-expression.

“Life is rarely more complicated after a drive in a Super 3.”

Engineering

Platform

Underpinning the Morgan Super 3 is a bonded aluminium Superformed monocoque platform. Morgan’s expertise with bonded aluminium platforms dates back more than two decades, to the start of Aero 8 production, and was furthered with the CX-Generation platform used in the 2020 Plus Four and 2019 Plus Six. Super 3’s platform evolves that technology further still.

For the first time in Morgan history, the platform is a true monocoque, with stressed exterior ‘A-surfaces’ (as opposed to a unibody design found on most modern production cars, with bolt-on non-structural panels). Not only does this make for a lighter and more rigid chassis but also provides packaging benefits and gives more interior occupant space with no intrusion. Its rigidity not only benefits the car’s dynamic capability but also enhances safety, with Super 3 meeting the same exacting M1 and Reg. 12 frontal impact standards as Morgan’s Plus Four and Plus Six four-wheeled cars.

Super 3 continues Morgan’s long-standing use of Superform technology. The heating of aluminium to a superplastic state before vacuum forming it allows for intricate exterior shapes to be created with a lower material stress than pressing. While Superformed exterior panels are a proven technology in automotive production, this is the first time the process has been used to produce a structural vehicle platform.

Further displaying Morgan’s use of innovative construction techniques is the exposed structural front casting. As well as providing the rigidity of the car and mounting points for the suspension while performing a vital safety function, it also carries the attractive finish required of an A-surface. As a display of the car’s mechanical honesty, it provides a link to motorcycles, which use exposed castings in their frames.

Drivetrain

In 1933, Morgan introduced the F-Type three-wheeler, which made the switch from V-twin power to a conventional Ford engine, housed under a bonnet. Almost a century later, Ford has again been chosen to supply the engine, specifically its innovative 1.5-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine. Powerful, efficient and characterful, it provides a combination of attributes which make it perfectly suited to its application in the Morgan Super 3. Extensive development has gone into tuning the engine’s acoustic content and enhancing its natural and distinctive three-cylinder character. It is exceptionally compact and has allowed Super 3’s design to remain true to form without compromising passenger space.

The engine is coupled to five-speed Mazda gearbox, as found in MX-5 and used in the outgoing Morgan 3 Wheeler. Unlike the previous model, however, no compensator is required in the driveline, therefore minimising complexity and weight. The bevel box has been re-engineered using a custom tooth profile, and it drives through a carbon fibre-reinforced drive belt.

The powertrain meets motorcycle Euro 5a, which is in line with cars, and will meet Euro 5b which includes OBD requirements.

Driving dynamics

Core to any Morgan product is driving enjoyment, and thanks to more than a century of experience, the company has become a global leader in the dynamic behaviour of three-wheeled vehicles. Super 3 is no exception. It is fundamentally stable – achieved through a dedication to keeping the vehicle’s mass within its contact triangle – and feels planted but with an assertive turn-in feel. Pull-rod suspension is key to this, bringing mass inboard and reducing unsprung mass while aiding airflow to the radiators.

Morgan has worked in partnership with Avon to develop its own 20-inch diameter tyre for Super 3. Reviving the iconic Speedmaster name, the tyre is based on the look of a heritage motorcycle tyre with ‘ballooned’ sidewalls but has been engineered specifically for Morgan and is closer to a car tyre in its design. To ensure ultimate performance, the compound and casing design have been through multiple iterations of fine tuning.

The rear tyre on a three-wheeler plays a crucial role in the handling and dynamic capabilities. The company has undergone a rigorous testing programme to determine the exact tyre choice for the rear of Super 3. After significant real-world testing and simulation, an Avon all-season tyre was selected to provide optimum slip angle. The rear tyre on a three-wheeler is often subjected to the dirtiest, wettest part of the road, and as the driving tyre it must maintain appropriate contact and grip.

Extensive development has also taken place to tune the feel of the controls. For example, the clutch is deliberately well weighted with a short travel, to reflect the short throw of the gearbox. Particular attention has been paid to the pedal spacing, allowing easy heal-and-toe gearchanges and retaining a playful feel.

While mechanical connection was crucial, refinement has been enhanced thanks to a combination of the rigidity of the bonded chassis and extensive drivetrain development. A new bevel box with custom tooth profiles (see drivetrain, above) reduces additional noise, and has been carefully tuned to ensure it maintains a straight-cut, race-car feel but without an overbearing mechanical noise.

Durability

The Super 3 marks Morgan’s most comprehensive vehicle development programme yet. The company has employed a new level of competence in CAE (computer-aided engineering) and structural durability simulations. Its engineering practices are in line with many OEM whole-vehicle programmes and far exceed motorcycle standards.

In testing, Super 3 has outperformed its targets. Several validation prototype vehicles have been operational at numerous proving grounds, undergoing continual durability programmes comprising Belgian pavé, torsional ramps and continuous full-bore acceleration and braking tests.

Further test vehicles have undergone ‘real-world’ mileage accumulation in all conditions, exceeding the parameters of any testing programme operated by the company to date and allowing for extensive insight into the life of the vehicle.

Particular focus has been paid to Super 3’s cooling package. Using a temperature-, pressure- and load-controlled environment, simulations have included the running of the car fully laden in some of the harshest and most challenging environments in the world, all of which were achieved with high levels of cooling redundancy.

Chris Arthur, Chief Engineer, Morgan Motor Company, said: “The Morgan Super 3 represents a new level of engineering integrity for Morgan. Superform techniques have allowed us to achieve something that is typically out of reach for niche manufacturers. The monocoque platform is light, stiff, strong and resilient and looks good. Throughout the vehicle, the quality of finish is comparable to that of much larger manufacturers, and we feel we have engineered a car that delivers a lot more value to Morgan customers.

“Super 3 remains true to Morgan’s roots because it’s a non-standard construction and every element has purpose. We have employed techniques that are appropriate and improve the quality for the customer. It is a modern take on utilising your own production methods to remain unique.

“I am particularly proud to be a part of the team tasked with delivering Super 3. While we have grown in recent years, we remain a small yet hugely resourceful and talented group. Super 3 is a testament to their skill, knowledge and hard work.”

Options & accessories

Customisation

Super 3 is the most configurable Morgan to date. The company has curated an extensive list of more than 200 options and accessories, each one allowing owners to tailor their Super 3. A key project aim was to design and homologate all accessories and options alongside the development of the main vehicle. This not only ensures that those options work in total harmony with the vehicle but also removes the need to retrofit additional options once the vehicle has been built.

Feedback from owners of previous three-wheeled models has been instrumental in defining some of the key accessory themes. These themes – three of which can be witnessed on the vehicles demonstrated at launch – include adventure touring, contemporary design and classic motorsport.

Morgan has developed many of its own options and accessories and worked with several key partners to help curate the options available. These project partners include Malle London, Beeline and Quad Lock.

Malle London
Malle London creates the finest British motorcycle luggage and adventure accessories. Morgan has worked in partnership with Malle London to develop the Morgan x Malle range of vehicle and clothing accessories.

The Morgan x Malle pannier is made from 18oz waxed black canvas and features unique fixtures on the reverse to attach the pannier to the sideblade. The size of the pannier is unique to Morgan and features multiple compartments as well as a rear-mounted cup holder.

A Morgan x Malle driving jacket has been developed in a partnership between the two companies. Available in black or desert sand, a matching knee guard helps to protect the occupant’s legs in adverse weather conditions.

Beeline Navigation
Working in partnership with Beeline, Super 3 features Morgan’s first in-car navigational solution. Deliberately simple yet effective in its application, Beeline technology is currently employed in several motorcycle applications. A bespoke bracket fits onto the column top to neatly mount the Beeline device. The device itself is waterproof and shockproof, linking to a smartphone app offering worldwide coverage via Google mapping.

Quad Lock
Making use of accessory rails situated around the vehicle and under the dashboard, a secure smartphone mounting solution has been developed in partnership with Quad Lock. Using Quad Lock’s universal fixings, a smartphone mount works alongside a Quad Lock case that is available for all smartphones.

Accessory rails
In what has been recognised as the company’s first patent, a unique fixing has been designed to allow for myriad opportunities to adorn Super 3 with additional options. Known as ‘accessory rails’, the fixings are available in anodised black or silver and can be applied to sideblades, under the dashboard, on the front and rear bulkheads, on wind deflectors, on the rear luggage rack and on the rear end of the hard shell pannier. Accessory rails allow for the addition of items such as soft panniers (developed with Malle London), a hard shell pannier available in body colour or mohair, an exo side rack with optional bungee cords, an internal cup holder, a Quad Lock phone mount, a helmet mount and camera mounting points. Accessory rails also fix on to the wind deflectors, which are available in two sizes and can be interchanged as desired. A tall wind deflector can be fitted for longer touring, while low wind deflectors can be optioned in clear or yellow tint. Each accessory rail also features a thread for mounting a camera, providing owners with a simple solution to capture their adventures on video.

Hard shell pannier
Aluminium hard shell panniers can be optioned as part of a Super 3 build specification. The panniers use accessory rails to fix on to the sideblades and can be secured using a security fastening mechanism. Available in mohair fabric finish – or painted to match the specified body colour of the vehicle – hard shell panniers provide a quality and aesthetically pleasing luggage solution. A fabric-lined interior and weatherproof exterior ensure that items are transported in safety. To the rear of the hard shell pannier there is an accessory rail to allow for an externally mounted cup holder.

Graphics packs
As with the previous Morgan 3 Wheeler, graphics packs play a significant role in the customisation of the Morgan Super 3. A choice of five full vehicle liveries and seven individual decals can be selected, with the opportunity to combine graphics and apply a custom ‘call sign’ or national flag.

Inspirations from aviation, technical glitch graphics and heritage markings have inspired many of the decals. Owners can select a call sign for their Super 3, which will add their ‘pilot’ name and that of their ‘co-pilot’ in a motorsport-inspired application just below the cockpit. Should they wish, owners can also choose to add their national flag, which will be situated next to their call sign.

Super 3 is all about fun and being different. Each of the liveries and decals has been designed to add further personality to the vehicle, a quality that has resonated with Morgan owners in previous models.

Luggage racks
An exo-skeleton rear luggage rack is sculpted to the rear profile of Super 3 and can be specified in black or silver. The rack is attached by a hard fixing point to the aluminium casting at the rear of the vehicle and is designed to open and close along the same axis as the boot, negating the need to remove it when opening and closing the boot. When down, the rack latches on to the roll hoops with a simple fixing. It also features holes and slits to allow for the attachment of storage netting.

Side racks are designed in the same style as the rear rack and are also available in black or silver with a range of bungee cord colours to choose from. The side racks allow for the quick storage of soft bags or clothing.

Toby Blythe, Head of Marketing, Morgan Motor Company, said: “Options, accessories and customisation are fundamental to the ethos of Super 3. We identified several key themes among owners of the previous Morgan 3 Wheeler and looked to expand on them. Working with a hand-picked selection of project partners in the premium lifestyle, outdoor and technology industries, we have been able to offer Super 3 owners an almost endless choice of vehicle options that can be specified at order point or at a later date.

“The concept of premium utility is something that features heavily in Super 3’s options: the idea that you can equip items that are luxurious and quality yet still ruggedised and functional. This concept is celebrated in products such as the Malle London x Morgan soft panniers, and we are delighted to have worked with such like-minded companies.

“We are confident that Super 3 will build on Morgan’s incredible heritage of three-wheeled vehicles by offering something to our existing customers as well as appealing to those who are new to the brand. We can’t wait to watch as Super 3 owners embark on incredible adventures all over the world.” 

Super 3, the name

Morgan has a long history of using the word ‘Super’ in its product names, dating back to Super Sports three-wheelers of the 1930s and more recently with four-wheeled cars such as the Aero SuperSports. In any deployment, the term has represented an enhanced level of performance and refinement and a moving forward of technology. Super 3 is the embodiment of this. A further link is the prominence of the term ‘super’ in the American lexicon of the 1950s and 1960s, a period of culture during which some of the early inspiration for Super 3 was anchored. Super also defines a new product family for the company, joining the ‘Plus’ range and setting a new design language for future models.

History

HFS Morgan built his first three-wheeler in 1909, in the process founding the eponymous Malvern-based manufacturer. Three-wheelers would continue to be produced until 1952, over that time setting myriad records in racing and taking on adventures in some of the most extreme parts of the world. In 2011, Morgan would revive the three-wheeler with a version encapsulating the spirit of the early V-twin-engined cars.

Notable was the introduction of a new variant in 1932, the F-Type, which featured an enclosed car-derived Ford engine in place of the original front-mounted V-twin, itself prophetic of a narrative that was set to repeat nine decades later. The original need for the F-Type was based on customer feedback, including customer demand for a third gear as well as reverse.

Ordering

Super 3 is available to order from Morgan dealerships in the UK, Europe, the USA and select ROW markets at launch. Customers in the UK and Europe will receive their vehicles first, with USA deliveries following later in 2022. Japan, Australia and select other ROW markets will follow thereafter. Interested customers are encouraged to contact their nearest Morgan dealership for information on availability in their market.

The price for Super 3 starts at £34,958.33 excluding local market taxes. In the UK, which is Morgan’s biggest market, Super 3 is £41,995 plus on-the-road costs. Pricing is in line with the outgoing model, which finished production in 2021 with a limited run of P101 special editions.

A new configurator is live at launch, allowing customers to fully tailor their new Super 3. Expressions of the vehicle provide a starting point for users to begin configuration. The configurator is powered by gaming technology and gives users a 360° view of the vehicle.

Steve Morris, Chairman and CEO, Morgan Motor Company, said: “Following on from the incredible success of the outgoing Morgan 3 Wheeler has been no easy task. When we first decided to reintroduce it back in 2011, the company couldn’t have imagined just how popular and successful the V-twin model would be. The Morgan 3 Wheeler represents something different, something unique and something to be celebrated. As we launch Super 3, I am confident that our latest three-wheeled offering is as relevant as ever.

“We have developed this vehicle at a time when the industry, and the wider world, has been challenged beyond comprehension. Yet our engineering and design teams, along with our project partners, have been able to deliver a fitting new chapter to Morgan’s three-wheeled story.

“The all-new Super 3 introduces new levels of engineering integrity to Morgan, a new sense of adventure to the brand and a new design language that indicates our future direction.”

Technical specification

  • Engine: Ford 1.5-litre, inline three-cylinder
  • Gearbox: Five-speed manual
  • Maximum power: 118 bhp (87 kW) at 6500 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 110 lb ft (150 Nm) at 4500 rpm
  • Acceleration 0-62 (0-100kph): 7 seconds (pending final certification)
  • Top speed: 130 mph (209 kph)
  • Fuel economy (combined): 40 mpg (pending final certification)
  • CO2 emissions: 130g/km
  • Dry weight: 635kg
  • Length: 3581mm
  • Width: 1850mm
  • Height: 1132mm

Peter Schreyer Appointed Hyundai Group Executive Design Advisor

– Press Release –

Peter Schreyer appointed as Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Design Advisor

  • Schreyer is widely regarded as a visionary designer who created distinctive models, transformed the Kia and Hyundai brands and significantly contributed to their growth
  • The legendary designer also strongly influenced Hyundai Motor Group’s corporate culture

23 February 2022, Seoul, Republic of Korea – Hyundai Motor Group announced that Peter Schreyer, President and Head of Design Management, was appointed as an Executive Design Advisor and brand ambassador for the corporation. The new role will see the visionary designer extend his monumental 16-year history with the Group, having joined in 2006.

“I would like to thank Executive Chair Chung for calling and welcoming me to South Korea back in 2006. To be entrusted with an open brief and allowed to impress my design philosophy first on Kia, and then Hyundai and Genesis, is truly an honor. To be a car designer for me has always been a dream job and I’m so happy that I have been privileged to do this. I very much look forward to continuing to help further shape design at Hyundai Motor Group in an advisory role and to acting as an ambassador for its brands,” said Peter Schreyer.

Born in 1953 in Bad Reichenhall, Germany, Schreyer showed an interest in art from an early age. He received his professional education at the University of Applied Sciences in Munich and at the renowned Royal College of Art in London, which awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2007. Before joining Kia, he was responsible for the design of pioneering models such as the Audi TT, VW New Beetle and VW Golf IV at Audi and the Volkswagen Group, where he held various positions for more than 25 years.

In 2006, Schreyer received a fateful phone call with an offer to join Kia Motors Corporation. Attracted by the rare opportunity to create a fresh design direction from scratch, he accepted and became Chief Design Officer at Kia. Peter Schreyer was the first person to bring a strong and characteristic design direction to the brand.

Becoming President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group in 2013, Schreyer’s unique approach to design helped to turn Hyundai and Kia into desirable brands. The development of his inspirational philosophy shaped their transformation and furthermore led to the development of Genesis as the Group’s luxury automotive brand. For all brands he developed their own und unique design philosophies and identities. One of the most significant elements was Kia’s distinctive and globally-recognized Tiger Nose. Some of Schreyer’s notable design accomplishments at the Group include the Kia Optima, Soul and Stinger and Hyundai’s SUV line-up ranging from Kona to Santa Fe plus the Hydrogen-driven NEXO. He also developed Hyundai’s brand-defining Cascading Grille.

Schreyer also played a profound role in revolutionizing the Group’s corporate culture, driven by his belief that the best results are produced via egalitarian collaboration, rather than by strict hierarchies. He introduced a workflow based on a philosophy inspired by one of Schreyer’s great passions – jazz and rock music – whereby a group of people can bring different skills to the table with a shared understanding of what they want to achieve, improvising and interchanging in the pursuit of creating something new and beautiful.

Throughout his career, Peter Schreyer has bridged his homeland’s heritage of automotive design with a wealth of opportunities presented by the immense change that has taken place in South Korea – often dubbed ‘The Korean Wave’ – which has seen its cultural exports take the globe by storm and laid the basis for the country’s stratospheric growth, both economically and in the soft power it wields. Schreyer’s designs have proven that the combination of two vastly different design cultures can be greater than the sum of their parts and result in something truly unique, helping to capture the attention and imagination of the wider world.

Ford Ranger Raptor Returns

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Powered by a twin-turbo 3-litre V6 engine in place of its predecessor’s 4-cylinder engine, as expected, the Ranger Raptor boasts a significant power hike to 392BHP and 430lb/ft torque driving its permanent four-wheel-drive through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. A high performance off-road beast, the Ranger Raptor features electronically controlled front and rear differential locks and low gear ratios.

A Baja-style desert performer, the stiff and refined Ranger Raptor features double wishbone front and live axle and coil spring rear suspension for enhanced handling, comfort and off-road abilities. Riding on Fox internal bypass dampers with Fox Bottom-Out Control to provide comfort and control for tarmac and off-road, the Ranger Raptor enjoys generous ground clearance and features seven driving modes for different conditions and four exhaust modes to deliver a ‘mild to wild’ soundtrack.

– Press Release –

Next-Gen Ranger Raptor Rewrites the Rulebook for Off-Road Performance

  • High performance 3.0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 delivers up to 292kw (392hp) and 583Nm torque, enabling phenomenal performance on and off-road, and a class-exclusive electronically controlled active exhaust system for mild-to-wild engine sounds
  • Master tough terrain with up to seven selectable drive modes, and re-engineered suspension with Ford Performance developed FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers
  • Venture further off-road with an advanced permanent four-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials

22 February 2022, Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The next-generation and next-level Ford Ranger Raptor has arrived. Built to dominate in the desert, master the mountains and rule everywhere in between, the second-generation Ranger Raptor raises the off-road performance bar as a pickup built for true enthusiasts.

Developed by Ford Performance, Ranger Raptor is the ultimate performance derivative of the next-gen Ranger. With smarter technology controlling tougher, next-generation hardware, Ranger Raptor blends raw power with mechanical and technical precision to create the most advanced Ranger ever.

“We’ve really focused on delivering a genuine performance truck with the next-gen Ranger Raptor,” said Dave Burn, Ford Performance Chief Program Engineer for Ranger Raptor. “It’s significantly faster, looks incredible, is packed with new features, and is the strongest Built Ford Tough Ranger we’ve ever made.”

More Power to Play

The biggest news for performance fans is the introduction of a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 producing up to 292kW (392hp) at 5650rpm and 583Nm of torque at 3500rpm tuned by Ford Performance.

The 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine will be available in select markets on the next-gen Ranger Raptor from 2023, with market-specific details provided closer to launch.

The Ranger Raptor’s anti-lag system keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or between gears when the driver gets back on the accelerator.

“The 3.0-litre brings a different dynamic to the Ranger Raptor that will satisfy even the most hardcore performance enthusiast,” said Burn. “The acceleration and raw performance of the new powertrain leaves you grinning from ear-to-ear.”

Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission – each gear programmed with its own boost profile – Raptor’s new engine delivers effortless acceleration on gravel, dirt, mud and sand. And, with an electronically controlled active exhaust system that amplifies the engine note in four selectable drive modes (Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja), the Raptor’s vocal character ranges from mild to wild.

Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode that uses one of the following settings:

  • Quiet – Designed to prioritise quietness over performance and sound. Great for keeping the peace with neighbours on early mornings.
  • Normal – Intended for everyday use, this profile offers an exhaust note with presence while not being too loud for street use. This profile is applied by default to Normal, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl modes.
  • Sport – Offers a louder and more aggressive note, for when you want to shake things up a little.
  • Baja – This is the most aggressive of the exhaust profiles in both volume and note. It behaves more like a straight-through system in this setting and is intended for off-road use only.

Hardware for the Heavy Hitters

The next-gen Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to next-gen Ranger. A series of unique mounts and reinforcements, for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket all combine to ensure next-gen Ranger Raptor can handle punishing off-road conditions.

A high-performance off-roader like the Ranger Raptor needs the running gear to match, and Ranger Raptor’s suspension is completely redesigned. All-new tough, lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and refined Watt’s link rear end have been designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed.

“The new suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new Fox Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease ensuring maximum control and performance,” said Burn.

Soaking up those humps and bumps are next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers with cutting-edge control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever on Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon-infused oil that reduces friction by around 50 percent compared to those on the previous Raptor.

While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering (CAE) and real-world testing. Everything from adjusting the spring rates to setting the ride height, valve tuning and honing the ride zones was performed to create the perfect balance between comfort, control, stability and traction on- and off-road.

Linked to Ranger Raptor’s revised selectable drive modesii, the Live Valve Internal Bypass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality both at high and low speed.

In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare the Ranger Raptor for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the bypass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used, and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.

To provide protection against severe bottom outs, FOX’s race-proven Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25 percent of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability. With the shocks providing the right amount of damping force at every position, the Ranger Raptor stays planted on both the road and track.

Ranger Raptor’s ability to tackle rough terrain is further enhanced with some serious underbody protection. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the standard Ranger bash plate and made from 2.3mm-thick high-strength steel. This bash plate, combined with the engine under shield and transfer case shield, provides protection for key components like the radiator, steering system, front cross member, engine sump and front differential.

And twin rated tow hooks at the front and rear provide flexible recovery options while driving off-road, with the added benefit of always being able to access one of the tow hooks (if the other is buried), as well as being able to use balance straps during snatch recoveries in deep sand or thick mud.

All Terrain Control

For the first time, Ranger Raptor gets an advanced permanent four-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials, a feature that hardcore off-roaders will appreciate.

“While Ranger Raptor was inspired by desert racers, it’s also a supremely capable overlanding vehicle. Out of the box we’ve created an off-road vehicle that you don’t need to modify to get you where you need to go and back again safely,” said Burn

Helping next-gen Ranger Raptor handle anything from smooth roads to mud and ruts and everything in between are up to seven selectable drive modes, including the off-road oriented ‘Baja’ mode for extreme high-speed off-roading. In ‘Baja’ mode electronic systems are configured for ultimate performance.

“We really wanted the Baja mode to be the ultimate expression of the off-road high-speed capability,” said Burn. “It’s a feature at the core of what the Ranger Raptor customer expects.”

Each selectable drive modeii adjusts a number of elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering, throttle response, and even the instrument cluster and centre touchscreen. And depending on the mode, the colour scheme of the digital displays changes to match the mode.

On-road

  • Normal – designed for comfort, fuel efficiency and drivability;
  • Sport – more responsive for spirited on-road driving; and
  • Slippery – for more confident driving on off-road slippery or uneven surfaces.

Off-road

  • Rock Crawl – providing optimum traction and momentum on loose surfaces;
  • Sand – for use in soft sand and deep snow conditions, optimising power delivery and transmission shifts;
  • Mud/Ruts – for maximum grip off-road during launch and maintaining vehicle momentum; and
  • Baja – tuned for high-speed off-road performance with all systems set for maximum attack.

Next-gen Ranger Raptor also comes with Trail Control, which is like cruise control for off-roading. The driver simply selects a set speed (less than 32km/h), and the vehicle manages acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.

High Energy Design

Matching the enhanced capability of Ranger Raptor is an all-new design that takes the design of the next-gen Ranger to the next level. Emphasising the width of the pickup are flared wheel arches, Ford truck DNA C-clamp headlights, bold F-O-R-D lettering on the grille, and the bumper that’s separated from the grille.

“Everything designed for the Ranger Raptor is there for a reason,” said Dave Dewitt, Ranger Raptor exterior design manager. “We’re communicating what Raptor can do just by the way it looks.”

The Matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights push lighting performance to new levels, featuring dynamic bending lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling to deliver safer lighting for Ranger Raptor drivers as well as oncoming traffic.

The flared fenders accommodate a choice of two muscular 17-inch wheel designs, one with beadlock capability, and each wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres. Functional vents, aero features, and tough, new-design cast aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature link to the front, while the precision grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbari that is tucked up high to aid the truck’s departure angle.

Inside, the theme continues to emphasize the off-road performance and high-energy nature of the exterior. The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats – both in the front and rear – that are not only more comfortable but more supportive during high-speed cornering.

The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are enhanced by Raptor’s ambient lighting, which bathes the interior in an amber glow. A premium grade leather sports steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast magnesium paddle shifters completes the picture.

Ranger Raptor boasts a fully digital cabin, with high resolution 12.4-inch digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen boasting Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system, which offers both Apple and Android wireless smartphone connectivity. A Bang & Olufseniv sound system provides the soundtrack to your next adventure.

Part of The Ford Performance Family

The roots of the Raptor name lie in North America, where Ford engineers used it on high-performance pickup trucks. It started with the first-generation F-150 SVT Raptor in 2010, which was optimized for high-speed off-road performance. Ford focused on detailed engineering upgrades around suspension, all-terrain tyres and four-wheel drive.

In 2018 a new member of the Ford Performance family was launched. The Ford Ranger Raptor spread the Ford Performance brand to a whole new audience of hardcore truck owners around the world, introducing the Raptor name into dozens of new markets.

The next-gen Ranger Raptor continues this legacy, with a purpose-built vehicle that balances daily duties with the sort of performance never seen in a mid-size pickup.

“We knew that customers would expect improved performance with the next-gen Ranger Raptor, but I’m not sure they’re really expecting the enormous leap we’ve made. It’s a seriously fun car to drive and I think the raw performance is going to blow them away,” said Burn.


Footnotes

  • i – Not all vehicle features will be available in all markets.  Precise specifications for each market will be confirmed prior to launch.
  • ii – Driver-assist features are supplemental to and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.

Opel Mokka Makes It To Emirates Market

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– Press Release –

New Opel Mokka Makes UAE Debut

  • New Mokka is first with Pure Panel Infotainment system, redesigned Blitz, and central nameplate at rear
  • Two trims, GS Line and Ultimate, available for customers in the region
  • Powered by a 1.2L turbocharged engine producing 130 hp and 230 Nm of torque linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
  • Opel-typical comfort and high-tech from higher market segments found in new Mokka

21 February 2022, Dubai, UAE – A car designed to arouse emotions and show the way forward for the brand, the new Opel Mokka is now available in the UAE and is one of the first models to wear the redesigned brand face, the Opel Vizor. The same goes for the redesigned Opel Blitz lightning bolt emblem and the centrally aligned model name at the rear.

In addition to the design, the new Mokka is also the first Opel that features the new GTx Pure Panel infotainment system. Two trims are available in the region, with iconic German engineering clearly visible in the GS line, which features 17” alloy wheels as well as the Ultimate, which features 18” alloy wheels. Both models are powered by a 1.2 Litre turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 130 hp and 230 Nm of torque linked to an eight- speed automatic transmission.

With its edgy new look and dynamic design, the new Opel Mokka ticks all the boxes for the younger consumer looking for the perfect car with style and personality. It impresses with perfect proportions and precision down to the smallest detail. Its short overhangs and wide stance are typical of the bold, pure appearance of the 4.15-metre long compact five-seater, highlighting its presence on the road.

The most striking feature of the front view is the unmistakable Opel Vizor and the Mokka’s interior also reflects this new, bold design language. The new GTx Pure Panel, which is the source of the new infotainment system, integrates two widescreen displays. In contrast to digital cockpits overloaded with information and controls, the GTx Pure Panel features a simple and clear design, understandable at a glance.

The new Mokka stays true to Opel’s brand-defining tradition of making innovative technologies from higher market segments available to a wide range of buyers. These include options such as Advanced Cruise Control (ACC), wireless phone charging and the adaptive and glare-free IntelliLux LED matrix light system, which features 14 elements that are unique in the Mokka’s market segment. All model variants come as standard with an electric parking brake as well as front and rear parking sensors. A 180-degree rear view camera, Automatic Park Assist and Side Blind Spot Alert are also available.

The new Mokka connects and entertains drivers and passengers perfectly. The infotainment offer includes Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi systems with a 7.0-inch colour touchscreen found in the GS Line and the top-of-the-line Multimedia Navi Pro with a high-resolution 10.0-inch colour touchscreen found in the Ultimate. The monitors are integral with the new GTx Pure Panel and angled towards the driver. The display of the Driver Info Centre extends to 12 inches.

Starting at AED 103,000, the new Opel Mokka is now available for customers at the Al Fahim Motors (AFM) showroom in Bahwan Centre, Umm Al Sheif on Sheikh Zayed Road.

Lamborghini Miura: Sultry Seductress With The Heart Of A Raging Bull

Whether Martin Scorcese’s film the real life Jake La Motta, his depiction by Robert DeNiro or the great and more authentically Lamborghini, the raging bull Italian raging is an evocatively potent and very Italian term that conjures angry, powerful and domineering imagery, and regardless of cliché, is an intoxicating idea that both strikes fear and admiration and commands recognition. With the raging bull as its symbol, Lamborghini’s first super car was the innovative Miura – so named after the breed of fighting bull, and is abundant with charged emotions, owing to its sensual styling, innovativeness, raw power, ability, originality and begrudging history.

While past Italian cars had a reputation for unreliability and exoticism, next to the efficiency of Japanese and German cars, but their charm has always been their heart and soul. From humble past Fiats, sporty mid-range Alfa Romeo and Lancia, prestigious Maserati and De Tomaso, to the Ferrari and Lamborghini heavyweights, Italian cars are seemingly always evocative affairs. Driver oriented, with good handling, sweet sporting engines and sexy designs are Italian automotive hallmarks and are things often eluding many other automobile – except perhaps the British auto industry, which was also innovative, stylish and driver-oriented, yet suffered notorious past reliability issues.

This very lively sporting persona, driver appeal and mythos endows the Lamborghini bull and Ferrari stallion with a sense of heart. Lamborghini’s origins are such a myth, with the story going that tractor-maker Ferruccio Lamborghini was dissatisfied with his Ferrari and came to odds with Enzo Ferrari, and then set out to build a rival sports car. After the 350GT the Miura was born as a radical chassis at the 1965 Turin motor show, and was the first to use a mid-engine racing layout and arguably the super car. The stunning Macelo Gandini designed Miura was the star of the 1966 Geneva motor show, but it the haste to get the show car ready, it didn’t have an engine installed and the press were turned away from inspecting its engine bay.

However, by production, the Miura first received a 3.9-liter version of former Ferrari man Giotto Bizzarini’s exquisite V12 engine – whose evolving design has only just been replaced. Mounted transversely and mated to an integrated 5-speed gearbox, the Miura was revolutionary. With a roster of famous drivers including Frank Sinatra and Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, and a shapely body and curvaceous lines that are as timeless as those of Sophia Loren, the Miura’s sleek low-slung profile and its trademark flat pop-up bug-eyed headlights made it movie star with roles in The Italian Job and Pink Panther.

With three evolutions during its lifetime, the Miura’s power output rose from 345PS to 385PS in the final 4-liter P400 SV version, which also boasted a 0-100km/h time of around 6-seconds and a theoretical top speed of 290km/h. With its mid-engine layout delivering excellent chassis balance and its un-assisted rack and pinion steering good for road feel, the Miura’s sultry and seductive style was however said to create aerodynamic lift rather than downforce at high speed, which meant that it would become less lighter and less planted at the supercar speeds it was capable of.

Specifications: Lamborghini Miura P400 SV (1971-72)

  • Engine: 4-liter, mid-mounted, transverse V12
  • Bore x stroke: 82 x 62mm
  • Compression: 10.7:1
  • Valve-train: DOHC V12, 4 Weber carburetors
  • Gearbox: 5-speed manual, rear-wheel-drive, limited slip differential
  • Top gear / reverse ratios: 0.82:1 / 4.09:1
  • Power, BHP (PS) [kW]: 385 (390) [297] @7,850rpm
  • Specific power: 98BHP/liter
  • Torque, lb/ft (Nm): 294 (399) @5,750rpm
  • Specific torque: 101.5Nm/liter
  • 0-100km/h: approximately 6-seconds
  • Top speed: 290km/h
  • Length: 4,359mm
  • Width: 1760mm
  • Height: 1,067mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,500mm
  • Track, F/R: 1,400 / 1,540mm
  • Ground clearance: 125mm
  • Weight: 1,290kg
  • Weight distribution, F/R: 44.5% / 55.5%
  • Steering: Rack & pinion
  • Lock-to-lock: 3.5-turns
  • Turning circle: 11.2-meters
  • Suspension, F&R: Independent, wishbone, coils spring, anti-roll bar
  • Brakes:  Discs

BMW 3.0 CSL: Bavarian Batmobile

Built by BMW’s then nascent skunk works division throughout 1971-75, the 3.0 CSL debuted as a lightweight road-going homologation of the race versions bitterly feuding with the Ford Capri 3.0 RS on the European Touring Car Championship. Bearing BMW’s race strip colors, the CSL was the race-derived version of the elegant E9 series coupe and BMW M Division’s unofficial first car, which by 1973 gained its audacious signature front air dam and splitter, roof deflector and vast rear wing that earned it its ‘Batmobile’ moniker. An alluring coupe that exuded menace, the CSL was defined by its ultra thin steel and aluminum body panels and aero kit, which was offered as a self-assembly kit to German buyers to bypass their dubious legality.

Virtually a stripped out racer, the road-going CSL may have lacked the competition versions’ gumball slick tires and flamboyantly blistered wheel-arches, but most German market versions were dedicated in their weight loss regime and came without bumpers, glass or electric windows, power steering air conditioning, wood veneer, carpets or even rust proofing, which over the years served to make the CSL – of which only some 1,300 were produced – even rarer. For the UK market, most CSLs were more luxuriously decked out including classy and unostentatious wood veneers. With its low waistline, thin pillars and tall glasshouse, the CSL had an airy and spacious cabin with excellent visibility despite the rear wing. Sports seats were figure hugging, but reclining the required a special spanner and the steering wheel position was fixed.

A practical four-seat super coupe, particularly in UK trim, the CSL’s seating encouraged an elbows out driving position to better leverage its heavy un-assisted re-circulating ball steering, which on the road, was said to relay excellent precision, weighting and feedback. Like its steering, the CSL’s brakes were heavy and long travel, which helped facilitate toe and heal shifting, while its clutch pedal was soft and precise. Gear shifts were long but exact, while the long 4-speed ratios were compensated by muscular low-end torque that peaked at 211lb/ft at 4,200rpm. A quintessential 1970s performance coupe, the CSL also featured long and heavy throttle travel, which meant one could precisely modulate input to either amble along comfortably or more intently summon its race-bred Dr Jekyll tendencies.

Developing 370-480HP in Group 2 racing guise and up to around 750BHP for Group 4 purposes, the road-going 3.0 CSL however produced 180HP at launch in 1971 with 3-liter displacement and Solex carbs, which was bumped up to 197BHP with the introduction of Electronic Fuel Injection in 1972 and then 203BHP at 5,600rpm with more flexibility as displacement rose to 3.2-liters by 1973. A smooth and thoroughbred straight six, the CSL’s engine was renowned for its resonant bellow and lusty low- and mid-range urge even from low speeds and tall gears. Able to knock out 100km/h in around 7-seconds and hit 222km/h despite its rakishly shark-nosed fascia, the 1165-1270kg 3.0 CSL’s pace, as its high price was considered exotic in its time.

With its promiscuously jutting snout, the 3.0 CSL developed 57kg lift at 200km/h, but with its flamboyant aerodynamic addenda, this was transformed to 32kg down-force at the same speed, and completed the Batmobile’s outrageous visual impact. A comfortable cruiser with high profile 195/70VR14 tires in road-going guise, the CSL was able to iron out road imperfections with supple fluidity, and its comfort would put some modern luxury cars to shame. Cornering grip and high speed stability were other strong suits of late road cars, owing both to its front wishbone and rear trailing arm suspension settings, and more importantly at high speed, the level of aerodynamic down-force generated by its wings, as opposed to un-winged early racers’ tail happy characteristics and edgy high speed experience.

Specifications: BMW 3.0CSL (1973)

  • Engine: 3.2-liter, in-line 6-cylinders
  • Bore x Stroke: 89.25 x 84mm
  • Compression ratio: 9.5:1
  • Valve-train: 12-valve, SOHC, electronic fuel injection
  • Gearbox: 4-speed manual, rear-wheel-drive
  • Gear ratios, final drive / top: 3.25:1 / 1:1
  • Power, BHP (PS) [kW]: 203 (206) [151] @ 5,600rpm
  • Specific power: 64.4BHP/liter
  • Power to weight ratio: 160BHP/tonne
  • Torque lb/ft (Nm): 211 (286) @ 4,200rpm
  • Specific torque: 90.7Nm/liter
  • 0-100km/h: approximately 7-seconds
  • Maximum speed: 222km/h
  • Length: 4,630mm
  • Width: 1,730mm
  • Height: 1,370mm
  • Wheelbase: 2,625mm
  • Track, F/R: 1,470 / 1,426mm
  • Fuel capacity: 70-liters
  • Suspension, F: Independent, lower wishbones, coil-springs, anti-roll bar
  • Suspension, R: Independent, Semi-trailing arms, coil-springs, anti-roll bar
  • Steering: Power-assisted re-circulating ball
  • Kerb weight: 1,165-1,270kg
  • Brake discs: 272mm
  • Tires, F/R: 195/70VR14
  • Production years: 1971-75

Drawing Parallels: Chevrolet Silverado EV

Closely following the beats of the original intro, the ad makes certain changes, like substituting Tony’s Cigar for a lollipop, and draws attention to some of the Silverado EV’s features, including its four-wheel-steering, which allows Meadow to park the hulking pick-up with ease, in a callback to her parallel parking struggles in the final moments of the Series final episode. Meanwhile, it seems obvious that Chevrolet are seeking to also conjure up an association with environmentalism and nature, as implied by the character’s name.

– Press Release –

CHEVROLET SILVERADO EV MAKES COMMERCIAL DEBUT AT BIG GAME

Reimagined title sequence of “The Sopranos” features Silverado EV in starring role

13 February 2022, Detroit, USA – The first-ever Chevy Silverado EV made its commercial debut during the big game in “New Generation,” a modernized version of the opening sequence from the classic show “The Sopranos.”

The HBO series, which aired from 1999 to 2007, has experienced a resurgence in popularity over the last two years, as original fans rediscover the hit series and a new generation of viewers dive into the drama. In the original title sequence, Tony Soprano drove a 1999 Chevy Suburban from Manhattan to New Jersey. Chevy updated the widely recognized opener with modern interpretations. Notably, these include Tony’s daughter, Meadow, driving the 2024 Silverado EV.

“This spot is about taking a nontraditional approach for a nontraditional electric truck,” said Steve Majoros, vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “The Silverado EV redefines our best-selling nameplate, while the spot envisions what the next generation of ‘The Sopranos’ might look like today. The spot cements the Silverado EV’s position within American culture.”

“New Generation” features updated and optimistic interpretations from the original driving scene, including Jamie-Lynn Sigler who played Meadow with a lollipop instead of Tony smoking a cigar, a happy reunion between Meadow and Robert Iler who played her brother A.J., and Meadow using the Silverado EV’s Four-Wheel Steer technology, which helps make parking maneuvers much easier.

The spot was created by Chevy’s creative agency of record Commonwealth // McCann and features leading creatives from “The Sopranos”:

  • David Chase, show creator and director
  • Phil Abraham, director of photography for original title sequence
  • Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who portrayed Meadow Soprano (Tony Soprano’s daughter)
  • Robert Iler, who portrayed A.J. Soprano (Tony Soprano’s son)

The spot highlights several key features of the first-ever Silverado EV, which is expected to offer a GM-estimated 400 miles of all-electric range on a full charge, four-wheel steering, available 17-inch diagonal LCD freeform infotainment screen, available 11-inch diagonal reconfigurable driver instrument display, available fixed-glass roof and available 24-inch wheels.

In spring 2023, the Silverado EV will debut a WT model. In fall 2023, the fully loaded RST First Edition model will debut.

Alfa Romeo Tonale: A Tonal Shift!?

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– Press Release –

Alfa Romeo Tonale: La Metamorfosi

  • Alfa Romeo is delighted to present to the Middle East market Tonale, the model that marks the Brand’s metamorphosis.
  • While remaining true to its DNA of noble Italian sportsmanship since 1910, with Tonale a radical evolution is taking place at Alfa Romeo, which is looking ahead to a new era of connectivity and electrification.
  • Two levels of electrification – Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Q4, developed by Alfa Romeo to guarantee best-in-class performance. The 275-hp Plug-in Hybrid Q4 version with all-wheel drive is best-in-class – the most powerful and efficient version in the line-up.

09 February 2022, Dubai, UAE: Stellantis Middle East today launched the all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale in the Middle East region, a groundbreaking new sports SUV offering industry-first technology and exceptional driving dynamics.

DESIGN: UNMISTAKABLY ALFA ROMEO

Intended for a young, metropolitan and dynamic customer, the Alfa Romeo Tonale offers a distinctive, sensual and forward-looking design, extolling new stylistic elements destined to remain as points of reference in the development of the Alfa Romeo line-up: 5-hole wheel rims, the cluster in the “telescopic” instrument panel, the 3-spoke sports steering wheel, and the sine-curve headlights.

The “3+3” headlights with new Full-LED Adaptive Matrix evoke the proud look of the SZ Zagato or the Proteo concept car. Developed in conjunction with Marelli, the three modules make up a unique frontline for the car and always ensure the best lighting conditions.

INDUSTRY-FIRST TECHNOLOGY

In a world exclusive, Tonale debuts non-fungible token (NFT) technology, a true innovation in the automotive sector. Alfa Romeo is the first automaker to link a car with an NFT digital certificate. The technology is based on the “blockchain card” concept, a confidential and non-modifiable record of the main stages in the life of an individual vehicle. With the customer’s consent, the NFT will record vehicle data, generating a certificate that can be used as a guarantee that the car has been properly maintained, with a positive impact on its residual value. On the pre-owned car market, NFT certification represents an additional source of credibility for owners or dealers to count on. In the meantime, buyers will be reassured in their choice of car.

Alfa Romeo underscores the use of software and connectivity to enhance the driver’s experience, which is always the focus. Tonale therefore comes with the most advanced technology, to ensure a connected and comfortable experience. The major new features in the Alfa Romeo Tonale include built-in Amazon Alexa voice assistant features, so you can always “feel at home” in your car, making the everyday experience even more straightforward and convenient.

On the all-new infotainment system featuring a customizable Android operating system and 4G connectivity, it also offers content, functionality and services that are always kept up to date. The system includes a fully digital 12.3” screen, the main 10.25” touchscreen unit, and a smooth, sophisticated multitasking interface, keeping everything at a glance without distracting your attention from the road. Totaling 22.5”, the two large Full TFT screens are best-in-class in the segment.

Technology is also at the service of safety and comfort: level 2 autonomous driving, with new Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that act in line with the Alfa Romeo philosophy. These include “Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control” (IACC), “Lane Centering” (LC) and “Traffic Jam Assist” – which automatically adjust speed and trajectory, keeping the car in the middle of the lane and at a distance from the vehicle in front, thus ensuring safety and comfort.

STATE-OF-THE-ART ELECTRIFICATION

For Alfa Romeo, Tonale marks a natural entry point into the world of electrification, offering a concrete commitment to sustainable mobility, while remaining faithful to its founding values. With two levels of electrification, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid, the Tonale debuts the 160-hp Hybrid VGT (Variable-Geometry Turbo) engine, an exclusive for Alfa Romeo.

Top performance is guaranteed by the exclusive 275-hp Plug-in Hybrid Q4, which clocks up 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.2 seconds and a range in pure electric mode of up to 80 km in the city cycle (over 60 km in the combined cycle), best-in-class values in the segment.  As standard in the Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, the Q4 traction ensures an unparalleled level of safety and driving pleasure.

BEST-IN-CLASS DRIVING DYNAMICS

Tonale stands as a benchmark in the segment in terms of driving dynamics. It ensures sports car-like impeccable dynamic behavior, proven by the best weight distribution and the most direct steering in its segment, as well as the fully independent MacPherson suspension system, with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers with “Dual Stage Valve” active suspension with electronically controlled damping. In short, sitting behind the wheel of the new Tonale equates to an engaging driving experience that becomes an invitation to travel, never mind the destination.

Going Racing: Ford Mustang GT3

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– Press Release –

Ford Performance to Develop Mustang GT3 Race Car to Compete Globally; Will Compete at Daytona in 2024

  • New Mustang GT3 will be a joint program between Ford Performance and Multimatic Motorsports
  • Mustang has 58 years of global endurance racing heritage
  • The new Mustang GT3 racer will be powered by a Ford 5.0-liter Coyote-based V8 engine

09 February 2022, Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Ford Mustang, the iconic sports car that created the pony car segment, will lead Ford’s return to global sports car racing as Ford Performance prepares a new GT3 race car for competition in 2024.

Ford Performance revealed plans for its all-new Mustang GT3 race car that will compete in the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) 2024 race season, including the 24 Hours of Daytona.

The new Mustang effort, announced in advance of the Rolex 24 at Daytona, will be a joint program between Ford Performance and long-time racing collaborator Multimatic Motorsports. It will feature both a two-car factory-backed IMSA GTD Pro works team managed by Multimatic, as well as customer Mustang race cars for the GTD class starting at Daytona in 2024.

“Mustang was born to race from the start and we’re thrilled to introduce the GT3 version to compete head-to-head against some of the greatest manufacturers in the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, Ford Performance Motorsports global director. “With 58 years of global endurance racing heritage, including NASCAR and Australian Supercars today, we are ready to take Mustang to the next level of global performance.

“Multimatic Motorsports is the perfect partner on this project for us,” said Rushbrook. “Not only have they worked with us to develop numerous customer Mustang programs in the past, but its work on the Ford GT program and the new Bronco DR customer race programs has shown together we can provide championship-level race programs for Ford and its customers.”

“We’re excited to work on this new IMSA program as well as the GT3 customer program with Ford Performance,” said Larry Holt, Executive Vice President of Multimatic Special Vehicle Operations. “We have a long, great working relationship with each other, both at the highest levels of professional sports car racing, and in developing competitive customer race programs and vehicles. We appreciate their faith in us, and together, we can’t wait to show the world what’s coming down the road with Mustang.”

The new Mustang GT3 racer will be powered by a Ford 5.0-liter Coyote-based V8 engine developed by Ford Performance and built by long-time racing collaborator and world championship winning team, M-Sport of Cumbria, England.

The two organizations have a rich history in the FIA World Rally Championship and recently collaborated on the development and preparation of the Ford Puma Hybrid Rally1, which finished 1-3-5 in its debut race at the Monte Carlo Rally in January.

“We are delighted to be broadening our relationship with Ford and extending it into the racing world after a very successful 25 years together in the World Rally Championship, which is once again delivering stunning results with the Puma Hybrid Rally1,” said Malcom Wilson, owner of M-Sport. “M-Sport has a wealth and depth of circuit racing knowledge and expertise, particularly from our GT3 programme that used an M-Sport developed V8 engine for GT3 that powered us to victory in the 2020 Bathurst 12-hour race and 2019 1000km of Paul Ricard.

“Our most recent engine project has seen us become the official British Touring Car Championship engine supplier which also uses Ford engine architecture,” Wilson added. “We are very excited about working directly with Ford Performance and Multimatic on the Mustang GT3 and will be working very hard, leaving no stone unturned as we join forces to fight for more victories around the world.”

The race-specific powerplant will continue the heritage of high performance naturally aspirated V8s in the Mustang platform. The engine will carry the heart and soul of the world-renowned Ford Coyote and have performance and packaging modifications to make it championship ready for world class GT3 endurance racing.

The new Mustang GT3 race car will feature bespoke Short-Long Arm suspension front and rear, rear-mounted transaxle gearbox, carbon fiber body panels, as well as a unique aero package developed to meet GT3 targets.

Ford and Multimatic will make both factory-backed and customer-ready GT3 Mustangs available to teams from the start of the 2024 season.

Joey Hand, one of the winning drivers in the 2016 Le Mans 24 Hours GTE Pro class in the Ford GT, is going to be one of the test drivers for the new program, as well as continuing on in his role as a development driver and coach for Ford Performance. As part of that, he will also drive six NASCAR Cup road course races in 2022 in a Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang.

“It’s awesome to be on the ground floor of another amazing sports car racing program with Ford,” said Hand. “As much as I like to compete and win on the track, I also enjoy being part of the development of new race vehicles like this Mustang. We did a lot of testing with the Ford GT program, so it will be great to be working again with a lot of the same people at Ford and Multimatic as we get this car ready for competition.”

New Mustang GT4 On The Way Too

Although the Mustang GT3 for IMSA is new, Ford and Multimatic confirmed that the successful Mustang GT4 customer race program will continue into the future, with a new Mustang GT4 expected to debut in the 2023 season.

The new Mustang announcements for sports car racing adds to a series of new racing Mustangs coming in the near future for Ford Performance. The 2022 Next Gen Ford Mustang debuted in the NASCAR Cup series at the LA Coliseum and then at the Daytona 500 two weeks later. And Ford Performance is developing its new Gen 3 Mustang for the Supercars Series that will debut at the start of 2023.

GMA T.33 Gears Up To Be Ultimate Driver’s Car

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Gordon Murray Automotive’s follow-up to the T.50 halo hypercar and its track-oriented T.50S Niki Lauda sister, the T.33 loses the former’s unique ground effect fan system and three abreast seating, but is instead convincingly pitched as the world’s best two-seater supercar. Built on a new ultra lightweight carbon and aluminium frame and powered by a reconfigured version of the T.50’s sensationally high-revving Cosworth developed 3.0-litre V12 engine, the T.33 is a high tech product of advanced engineering techniques and processes, yet presents as refreshingly uncomplicated old-school supercar promising visceral thrill and connected driving experience.

Timelessly stylish with its sensually curvaceous body  and stacked headlights that hark back to sexy 1960s styling sensibilities, the T.33 may not be as single-mindedly focused on active aero systems as the T.50, but is nevertheless at the forefront of aerodynamic design. Utilizing Passive Boundary Layer Control system of inlets, air channels, ducts and diffuser, the T.33’s ground effects capabilities are 30% more efficient than a conventional supercar, and negate the use of oversized wings and skirts. The T.33 does however use a more discreet active rear spoiler for downforce, aerodynamic efficiency and air braking.

Limited to just 100 examples and priced at GB £1.37-million with deliveries starting in 2024, the T.33 will however be GMA’s last purely petrol powered offering, given unfortunate UK policies. However, and in the meantime, the T.33 promises an undiluted driving experience like little or no other, and is powered by a howling high-revving 3.9-litre V12. Dialed back lightly from service in the T.50 in output and rev limit, the T.33 variant nevertheless serves up staggering headline stats including an 11,100rpm rev limit and 607BHP delivered at 10,500rom. With its maximum 333lb/ft peaking at 9,000rpm, the T.33 however should provide excellent mid-range versatility, with 75% of it maximum torque on tap from 2,500rpm and 90% available throughout 4,500-10,500rpm.

Much like Gordon Murray’ now legendary McLaren F1 and the T.50, the lightweight 1,090kg T.33 promises to be the best driver’s supercar, with the emphasis being on its dynamic capabilities, driving experience and usability. With that in mid, the T.33 uses a lightweight double wishbone suspension set-up, and can meanwhile accommodate 280-litre of luggage in two side compartments. Driving the rear wheels through a standard 6-speed manual gearbox, the T.33 is however available with an optional automated paddle shift 6-speed gearbox. Meanwhile, a limited slip differential and un-intrusive failsafe electronic stability control, are standard.

– Press Release –

Gordon Murray Automotive reveals the all-new T.33
– a timeless Supercar

  • All-new T.33 is the GMA brand’s second all-new Supercar
  • Production strictly limited to just 100 cars, guaranteeing exclusivity, costing £1.37m (before taxes); deliveries from early 2024
  • Designed, engineered, and developed to be the world’s most accomplished all-round two-seater V12 Supercar – ‘If you had to have only one Supercar, the T.33 is it’
  • The T.33 is truly a global car which will be homologated worldwide including full federal homologation
  • Powered by a specially reconfigured version of the world-beating Cosworth GMA V12 engine
  • Better power to weight ratio than a McLaren F1
  • Built on a newly developed carbon and aluminium super-lightweight architecture
  • Offers a unique and highly personalised ownership experience
  • The T.33 and all future Gordon Murray Automotive vehicles will be built around seven core principles
  • Following on from the T.50, the all-new T.33 Supercar firmly establishes the GMA brand as the world’s premier Supercar manufacturer
  • The T.50 remains GMA’s halo Supercar due to its central driving position, sub 1000 kilo weight, 12,000rpm engine and its fan assisted aerodynamics

Gordon Murray Automotive has unveiled the exciting all-new T.33. It is the second newly developed model from GMA and joins the T.50 and T.50s Niki Lauda in the line-up. The two-seat, mid-engined T.33 has been conceived, designed, and engineered without compromise to offer the ultimate blend of performance, comfort, on-road driving experience and everyday usability.

The T.33 will be powered by a specially reconfigured version of the T.50 3.9-litre V12, co-designed with Cosworth, and already regarded as the finest-ever twelve-cylinder road car engine. The beautifully proportioned, aerodynamically efficient, timeless design of the T.33 will be built around a newly developed carbon and aluminium superlight architecture. Its overall targeted weight is less than 1100kg.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE “With the T.33, our second all-new car, we gave ourselves a very clear brief: to create another timeless design. It has been designed and engineered to the same exacting standards as our T.50, with the same emphasis on driver focus, performance, lightweight and superlative, pure design, but the outcome is a very different motor car. This is a car where comfort, effortless performance and day to day usability are even more front and centre in its character.”

As with all current and future GMA cars, the T.33 adheres to the seven key principles of the brand.

Driving perfection The ambition and intent to deliver the very best driving experience.

Exclusivity GMA will never produce more than 100 of any one model or variant.

Lightweight At GMA lightweight design is much more than just an engineering goal, it is a state of mind. This approach delivers supercars with unmatched levels of efficiency and vehicle dynamics.

Premium GMA is a car company like no other. We produce hand-built British cars to the highest possible standards. It is where engineering innovation meets premium quality.

Engineering art Every single component is a bespoke design and a piece of engineering art, all adhering to the beauty of simplicity.

A return to beauty Our cars will always be timeless, balanced and perfectly proportioned – every part of our car has a purpose.

A personalised customer journey With only 100 examples of each model of each variant, when you join the GMA family, you are joining an unrivalled and unique experience. While other manufacturers can offer you a paddock club ticket, we provide an access all areas pit pass.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE “Gordon Murray Automotive is a brand that is pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation. We are already developing a global reputation that we are unlike every other car manufacturer. We are not chasing trends. We are not chasing headline performance figures. We are not chasing sales. Nor will we ever be. Which is why now, and in the future, GMA vehicles will always abide by our seven core principles. Principles that represent the cornerstone of our brand, our world-leading vehicles and the legacy that we are creating.”

Design

The T.33 has been designed by Gordon Murray and his team with strict adherence to the company’s guiding seven principles. Based upon an entirely new carbon/aluminium superlight architecture, the T.33’s carbon fibre body represents a triumphant return to beauty.

GMA spared neither time nor resources to pursue a perfectly proportioned, balanced beyond compare shape. Crafted through obsessive attention to detail, the T.33 exudes a spirit of purity and an aura of utterly timeless beauty.

The T.33 represents the highest expression of automotive art that quite simply, no other company, no other car designer could have created.

Each owner will be welcome to collaborate with the GMA design team to personalise their T.33 through their choice of colours and liveries, thus ensuring that no two cars will be alike.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE “The beauty of simplicity is the key to the design of every GMA model, and the new T.33 is no exception. As with the T.50 and T.50s, each component and every curve and radius is a bespoke design on the T.33 and is there because it has a function to perform. Our slavish adherence to the concept of engineering art extends far beneath the surface of the T.33’s body. Every part, no matter how small and no matter that the owner may never see it, is designed to the same exacting standards as the body.”

Engine and transmission

The T.33’s new GMA.2 V12 engine is based upon the exceptional building blocks of the greatest road-going V12 the world has ever seen. The 3.9-litre V12 that powers the GMA T.50 road car has been significantly re-configured to deliver performance that is even more accessible than the extreme T.50 V12.

Once again, GMA has turned to its Technical Partner, Cosworth, leveraging a relationship that has stood the test of decades and predates Gordon Murray’s first Grand Prix victory with Cosworth in 1974 at Kyalami with Carlos Reutemann in a Brabham BT44. The world-leading engine company’s 60 plus years of experience has been mustered to meet GMA’s brief.

Derived from the all-aluminium Cosworth GMA V12 and denoted by bespoke T.33 yellow cam covers, the beautifully crafted GMA.2 further embodies GMA’s guiding principles, including Exclusivity, Lightweight, Engineering Art and, of course, Driving Perfection. Every element of the engine has been reassessed, with numerous components and systems re-designed and re-engineered to ensure optimum compatibility with the new T.33’s driving characteristics.

Weighing a mere 178kg, the 3.9-litre V12 revs to 11,100rpm and produces 615PS @ 10,500rpm and 451Nm @ 9,000rpm. Incredible ultra-rapid engine response combined with 75 per cent torque delivery at just 2,500rpm and an incredible 90% of maximum torque available from 4,500rpm to 10,500rpm, and a power to weight ratio of 564PS per tonne results in superlative performance.

While GMA and Cosworth chose to retain the V12 cylinder heads, albeit in modified form, completely new camshafts, variable valve timing, and engine mapping have been introduced to ensure perfection in response and power delivery. Along with a new ram induction intake system, a new exhaust system has been developed, which delivers a spine-tingling GMA signature sound unmatched by any other car on the road today. The engine mountings, water cooling, and oil cooling systems are also entirely new and were developed specifically for the GMA.2 V12.

World-renowned British transmission experts Xtrac have created a totally bespoke six-speed transmission of exceptional quality for the T.33, which will be offered to customers with a manual gearchange or an Instantaneous Gearchange System (IGS) paddle shift actuation. The transmission is combined with a low inertia clutch and a Limited-Slip Differential (LSD).

As standard, the GMA T.33 has a six-speed manual gearbox with a paddle shift transmission as an option. The manual gearbox is derived from the T.50 Xtrac manual unit, weight at 82kg, is the world’s lightest supercar unit. The paddle shift gearbox is designed around Xtrac’s IGS which delivers a seamless shift with no torque interrupt making it the world’s fastest supercar gearchange, without resorting to multiple clutches or dog rings. At 78kg it is the world’s lightest supercar paddle shift gearbox.

In keeping with GMA’s determination to continually push the boundaries of automotive innovation, the powertrain of the T.33 is semi-structural, with the engine and transmission carrying all the traction, braking and cornering forces. GMA’s innovative IASM (Inclined Axis Shear Mounting System) incorporates anti-vibration mountings to ensure that excellent cabin Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) isolation is delivered alongside precise handling.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: “The engine is the heart and soul of any supercar. And to ensure driving perfection, it must be bespoke, and it must be normally aspirated. We were fortunate that we had the world’s greatest V12 from the T.50 as a starting point. Yet, nothing was taken for granted, and no part was automatically carried over without due diligence and consideration. When we once again joined forces with our technical partner Cosworth to create a bespoke engine for the T.33, every single detail was pored over in painstaking depth. Numerous systems and components were re-engineered and re-designed to pursue excellence, and we are 100 per cent confident that the GMA.2 V12 provides the perfect match for the T.33’s driving characteristics.”

Chassis body and suspension

The T.33 is built around a unique, superlight carbon fibre monocoque and iFrame® featuring cored carbon fibre panels. This solution delivers the perfect balance of torsional rigidity, and lightness, resulting in a car which is 300kg lighter than the average supercar.

The extremely lightweight nature of the T.33’s construction ensures impressive agility on the road. Its strength and stiffness deliver exceptional occupant safety, with precision-engineered deformable areas. Occupant safety is further bolstered by a Formula One inspired ‘safety cell’.”

To deliver exemplary handling and ride comfort, GMA’s chassis engineers have developed an entirely new suspension package for the T.33. Lightweight double wishbones are deployed front and rear in conjunction with coil springs over aluminium alloy dampers. The front suspension configuration features an anti-roll bar and aluminium alloy uprights. At the rear of the chassis, aluminium alloy uprights and toe control links are deployed, along with an Inclined Axis Shear Mounting (IASM) system. The IASM system has the rear suspension mounted directly to the transmission casing with the torsional loads supported by the chassis and the entire powertrain mounted on anti-vibration bushes.

Steering and brakes

The T.33 features a newly developed, bespoke rack and pinion, hydraulically assisted steering system calibrated to impart class-leading levels of feel and feedback.

The Brembo Carbon Ceramic Material (CCM) brake discs of the T.33 (370mm x 34mm front/340mm x 34mm rear) feature six-piston aluminium Monobloc alloy front callipers and
four-piston aluminium Monobloc alloy rear callipers. The braking system and aerodynamics combine to produce incredible deceleration.

Wheels and tyres

The T.33 rides on unique and exceptionally light forged aluminium alloy 19-inch front and
20-inch rear wheels, weighing less than 7kg each. The wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres (235/35 R19 front, 295/30 R20 rear). The Michelin 4 S tyres provide superior all-round performance, with significantly lower replacement costs than bespoke tyres. They also offer further weight saving by being much smaller and narrower than those required by a conventional supercar due to the T.33’s low weight.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: “Like its T.50 and T.50s predecessors, the T.33 is all about the driving experience. We have engineered the T.33 to provide exceptional levels of highly tactile and deeply immersive involvement to elevate the driver to a higher plane behind the wheel. Of course, safety is equally paramount, as is everyday usability in all weather conditions. Our judiciously calibrated, non-invasive traction and stability systems are designed not to detract from the driving experience but are there to provide an additional level of confidence when called upon.”

Aerodynamics

When it launched in 2020, the GMA T.50 rewrote the supercar rulebook with the most advanced and effective aerodynamics ever seen on a road car, enabled by its unique rear-mounted fan. Now, it is the turn of the equally innovative T.33 to create a new era of road car ground effect aerodynamics.  This time there is no rear fan involved, but nevertheless, deploying numerous lessons learnt with the T.50 project Gordon Murray and his team have once more again raised the bar with the T.33’s Passive Boundary Layer Control (PBLC) system.

At the front of the car, a ground effect inlet channels air underneath the floor. A diffuser with a boundary layer removal duct activated by the base suction behind the car enables a level of aerodynamic efficiency that is 30 per cent more effective than the conventional ground effect supercar.

The ground effect dynamics provided by the PBLC system freed Gordon Murray and his design team from the need to equip the T.33 with the wings, skirts and vents that adorn most
modern-day supercars. The only concession is the active rear spoiler, which deploys automatically, but can also be activated by the driver. The rear spoiler also provides a high downforce mode, increasing downforce and an aero enhanced braking function.

The boundary layer control ensures the most effective interaction of airflow on top of, and below the car, harmonising drag, downforce, and stability at all speeds and negates the need for aggressive front end aerodynamics devices.

Uniquely the RAM induction airbox is attached directly to the engine and is separate from the chassis.

Interior

To enter the cabin of many modern-day supercars is to enter a world of large touchscreens and endless sub menus that cause confusion and distraction. No touchscreens are found within the exquisitely, yet simply designed cabin of the T.33. As with the exterior, nothing is included unless it serves a purpose and if there was a danger it would dilute the driving experience, then it was simply deleted from the development programme. The car is even devoid of column stalks, and instead, the indicators are operated by thumb-buttons on the carbon fibre steering wheel’s horizontal spokes.

The T.33’s cabin, as with T.50 is absolutely driver focused and represents a return to beauty.  And while all of the main controls are rotary and analogue, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard.

The beautifully designed, flood-lit, 120mm diameter rev counter is gloriously, defiantly analogue, as are the remaining driver centric controls such as the aero, lights, aircon and HMI. All primary and secondary controls are machined from the highest quality aluminium alloy providing a wonderfully tactile feel. The pedals are crafted from aluminium alloy, providing a perfect combination of strength and lightness that delivers exceptional control and sensitivity to the driver.

Further confirmation, if needed, of the T.33’s pure driver focus takes the form of a unique carbon steering wheel and adjustable carbon seats. The provision of a front stowage compartment and twin side luggage lockers offering a combined 280 litres of space, large enough for 6 cases, endows the T.33 with the practicality to undertake continent-crossing adventures.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: “Our focus from day one of this project has been to deliver absolute driving perfection.  And while the engine may be the heart and soul of a supercar, the cabin and its controls provide the conduit through which the driver engages with the engine and the car’s other attributes. The T.33’s driver-focussed cabin enables each journey, no matter how short, to be relished free of distraction and it also provides the practicality for longer trips to be undertaken.”

Customer experience

The T.33 is truly a global car which will be homologated worldwide including full federal homologation. With just 100 examples being hand built by Gordon Murray Automotive at the company’s new global headquarters in Windlesham, Surrey, most components are bespoke, and each car can be personalised to meet the owner’s specific requirements.

The specification process includes GMA’s unique ergonomic seating buck where each car is tailored to the owner. Beyond this, GMA’s Special Vehicle (SV) department can deliver a unique T.33 supercar to a specification that is only limited by the owner’s imagination.

Customers can choose between right-hand or left-hand drive and manual or IGS paddle shift transmissions. They can collaborate with the GMA design team to configure their own bespoke ergonomic and interior specification and choice of body colour. A broad range of options, including an SVS sports pack, further expand the potential for personalisation.

The attention to detail in GMA’s unique customer journey goes beyond the personalisation and delivery process. GMA supercar ownership is an invitation to join the Gordon Murray Automotive family. The company’s ultra-experienced after sales team is set-up to support owners globally wherever they choose to drive their cars.

GMA cars are designed with sensible servicing costs in mind, through a global network of service centres and authorised workshops.

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: “I am extremely proud of our team who have relentlessly applied our core principles to deliver this amazing motor car.”

Ford Bronco Raptor: Riding High

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Significantly wider than garden variety Broncos with it flared wheel-arches, ducts and higher ground clearance, the Raptor comes with massive 37-inch all-terrain tyres and features heavy duty skid and bash plates to protect its drive-train. Powered by a 400BHP version of Ford’s 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 EcoBoost engine, the Raptor receives a 10-speed gearbox, enhanced cooling and tougher, heavy duty axles and four-wheel-drive transfer case.

Built to drive in deserts at highway speeds, the Bronco Raptor comes Fox 3.1 Internal Bypass Semi-Active Dampers that adjust to various conditions and provide long wheel travel, while its fully boxed chassis is complemented with B- and C-pillar reinforcement for a 50% increase in torsional rigidity. Additionally, the Raptor features a performance optimized interior and G.O.A.T. terrain management system.

– Press Release –

Desert-Racing, Rock-Crawling 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor  Debuts as Most Powerful Street-Legal Bronco Ever is Coming to the Middle East

  • All-new 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor, designed and engineered by Ford Performance to be the world’s first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV, is capable of highway-speed desert-dune conquering and Baja rock-crawling
  • Bronco Raptor packs extreme Built Untamed capability and durability with an exclusive twin-turbo 0-liter EcoBoost engine targeted to deliver more than 400 horsepower*, a Raptor HOSS 4.0 race-ready suspension system, a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, and standard 37-inch all-terrain tires
  • At 9.8 inches wider than a base Bronco four-door for more confident high-speed cornering, Bronco Raptor epitomizes extreme Built Untamed design with race-inspired features inside and out, accented by Raptor-family signature cues

25 January, 2022, DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Two icons that have tackled off-road terrain for years are  coming together to take on even more: Bronco and Raptor. Built for desert running and boulder crawling, the all-new 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor gives off-roaders next-level performance.

Bronco Raptor, the newest member of the Bronco outdoor brand of Built Untamed SUVs, debuts today as the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever, and the world’s first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV. Ford Performance, the same team that produces the F-150 Raptor, designed and engineered Bronco Raptor as a calling to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

Bronco Raptor is equipped with elite off-road technology and hardware. Ultra4 Racing is the epitome of grueling off-road competition, featuring demanding races such as the famed King of the Hammers in the Johnson Valley in California, where Bronco Raptor will be on display on Feb. 3. Ford and Bronco will continue as the official truck and SUV of the Ultra4 series.

“We poured all of our passion and all of our Bronco and Raptor know-how into creating this absolute desert-racing beast,” said Jim Farley, president and CEO, Ford Motor Company. “It’s the real deal. It’s not for show and it’s not for everybody. But for people who love to get out in the wild, it’s the ultimate. And only Ford could create a Bronco Raptor.”

With the addition of Bronco Raptor, Ford once again expands its Raptor high-performance off- road vehicle franchise, which also includes F-150 Raptor for North America and Ranger Raptor for global markets.

“Raptor is the apex of our off-road lineup and is now a full lineup with race proven content and design that you can’t get from anyone else,” Farley added.

Beyond the Raptor family, Ford offers an unmatched variety of additional on- and off-road high- performance and specialty performance vehicles, from Mustang Shelby GT500, the pinnacle of Mustang street performance, to the ST lineup of cars and SUVs, to the Tremor family of F- Series and Ranger tough and work-capable off-road trucks.

Ford Performance unleashes extreme Built Untamed capability and durability

To build the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV, Ford Performance set the bar high. Bronco Raptor had to be even faster and bring more off-road capability, agility and maneuverability than Bronco already delivers.

“We had to build the Bronco Raptor – it’s our ultimate vehicle for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who demand something more,” said Carl Widmann, Ford Performance chief engineer. “Like the Ultra4 desert race trucks, the ‘Raptor of SUVs’ conquers desert dunes at highway speeds and is equipped with competition-level off-road technology and hardware.”

Starting with the Bronco frame foundation, the Ford Performance team knew it needed a Raptor-specific version for increased suspension travel and track width for handling stability

during high-speed desert runs. At the Raptor core is a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame with new shock towers that increase wheel travel and off-road durability. Heavy-duty bash and skid plates provide continuous driveline coverage from the front bumper to the back of the engine, transmission and transfer case. In the upper body, B-pillar cross bar and C-pillar reinforcement help deliver a greater than 50% total body-in-prime torsional rigidity increase over a standard Bronco four-door model.

Competition-level, Ford Performance-developed axles, also used on the Bronco DR race truck, further deliver on the Ultra4-inspiration. The solid rear axle is upgraded to a semi-float Dana 50 Heavy-Duty AdvanTEK with 235-millimeter ring gear, while the Dana 44 AdvanTEK front- drive unit includes upgraded half-shafts with 210-millimeter ring gear. These upgraded front and rear axles increase the track width by 8.6 inches (73.6 inches versus 65.0 inches) over a base Bronco for even more sure-footed confidence. Larger front and rear driveshafts support increased wheel torque. Bronco Raptor also runs with a minimum ground clearance of 13.1 inches, 4.8 inches more than a base four-door model.

An advanced 4×4 system with three modes includes a higher-capacity clutch designed to withstand the demands of high-performance desert events. The upgraded transfer case also features a 3.06 4×4 LO ratio for up to 67.7:1 crawl ratio.

The Ford Performance team collaborated with FOX to upgrade the High-Performance Off- Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system with Live Valve technology. Similar to the F-150 Raptor truck’s position-sensitive damping design, the Raptor HOSS 4.0 system features FOX 3.1 Internal Bypass Semi-Active Dampers (3.1-inch diameter) that are uniquely tuned at the front and rear and feature integrated reservoirs up front and remote reservoirs in rear. Suspension height sensors and other sensors at each corner monitor terrain conditions independently hundreds of times every second and adjust suspension tuning accordingly.

Unique Ford Performance-designed front and rear control arms help deliver maximum wheel travel of 13.0 inches in front and 14.0 inches at the rear, or 60% and 40% more, respectively, than a Bronco base model. To deliver the confidence and high-speed needs of the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV, the Ford Performance team reached out to BFGoodrich for standard 37- inch KO2 all-terrain tires (37×12.50R17LT), the largest of any production SUV in America**. Two Ford Performance-designed 17-inch x 8.5-inch beadlock-capable wheels are available. An electric-power steering rack and housing influenced by F-150 Raptor, as well as larger-diameter inner and outer tie rod ends, were added to further upgrade Bronco Raptor.

To give Bronco Raptor even more desert-running power, the Ford powertrain team developed the proven twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine with specific Raptor-level tuning to meet Ford Performance standards. With a target of more than 400 horsepower*, Bronco Raptor will be the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever, with intercooling and air-induction systems designed to endure the higher ambient desert temperatures.

For higher-speed desert capabilities or crawling over rocks, the compacted graphite iron-block engine, which saves weight while providing strength for added durability, is paired with a 10- speed SelectShift automatic transmission tuned to meet Ford Performance standards. A true dual-exhaust system, featuring first-for-Bronco active-valve technology, uses near-equal-length pipes for an improved exhaust note. The system allows drivers to alter the sound of their Bronco Raptor with four selectable exhaust modes, including Normal, Sport, Quiet and Baja.

Bronco Raptor builds on the brand’s exclusive G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) Terrain Management System designed to help drivers better navigate off-road. Seven driver-selectable modes include a uniquely tuned Baja Mode that activates a turbo anti-lag calibration to maximize performance over high-speed desert runs. New to Bronco is Tow/Haul mode, which helps enable a tow rating of 2,041 kilogram, a 1,000-pound improvement over the base model. Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist and Trail One-Pedal Driving are also included.

Raptor styling with extreme Built Untamed innovative design

The first-ever Bronco Raptor delivers purpose-built design, infusing Raptor-family signature cues with the truck’s Built Untamed innovative design.

“As the most badass Bronco yet, the Bronco Raptor design is extreme,” said Paul Wraith, Bronco design chief. “It’s muscular, while maintaining an underlying simplicity with performance- focused details added only for outstanding high-speed capability.”

Familiar Ford block lettering at the front stretches across the signature two-piece rectangular grille. Model-specific LED headlights featuring amber daytime running lamps and integrated amber marker lamps further tie in the DNA of Raptor to provide a menacing look. A heavy-duty modular steel front bumper by Ford Performance features tow hooks, removable bumper end caps for improved off-road clearance, integrated removable Rigid LED fog lamps and Rigid off- road lamps for greater illumination.

The hood on Bronco Raptor is made of sheet-molding compound, offering the design team the ability to dramatically sculpt its muscular shape. An integrated hood vent is molded-in-color Carbon Black and fender vents are painted body color. Raptor logos on the left and right of the hood bulge hint at the twin-turbo power underneath.

Bronco Raptor proudly leverages the Bronco SUV’s patented off-road modular design, stripped it to its base, and replaced components with unique-to-Raptor front and rear quarter-panels, fenders, fender flares and door appliques. Sheet-molding compound is once again used to sculpt the wider front fenders and integrated bodyside heat extraction ducts, which provide additional engine cooling. Sheet-molding compound rear-quarter panels are equally bolstered for a muscular look. Together with fender flares, Bronco Raptor sits 9.8 inches wider than a standard Bronco. Bronco Raptor-specific reinforced rock rails with removable running boards increase rock crawling capability.

For even more Raptor-styling DNA, an available Bronco Raptor Graphics Package includes new splatter graphics on the rear bodysides and hood that use an overlapping broken trapezoidal pattern and floating shapes to present a sophisticated digital appearance. Exterior colors include Hot Pepper Red Metallic, Velocity Blue Metallic, Eruption Green Metallic, Shadow Black, Iconic Silver Metallic, Area 51, Cactus Gray, Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat, Oxford White, plus Ford Performance-exclusive Code Orange paint.

Race-focused with a performance-optimized interior

Bronco Raptor features a familiar heritage-inspired horizontal dash, integrating an all-digital 12- inch cluster. The cluster allows drivers to select from various views, including a Bronco Raptor- exclusive Performance View that emphasizes tachometer and gear readings and allows the customization of gauges.

“The Bronco Raptor interior was designed around what we know hardcore off-road racers want in a vehicle,” said Ryan Olsson, design manager. “From the all-new Performance View on the cluster and unique steering wheel with paddle shifters and fingertip access to Raptor-specific controls, to its race-ready, high-bolster front seats, Bronco Raptor leaves the factory ready for the starting line.”

Base Bronco Raptor models are equipped with Black Onyx marine-grade vinyl seats and rubberized washout flooring. The dark interior is accented with Ford Performance Code Orange splashes on the G.O.A.T. Modes rotary dial, dash vents, door netting, steering wheel stitching and Bronco logo on the instrument panel. Even the push-button ignition lights up in Code Orange. Touchpoints such as the grab handles, steering wheel bezel and gear shifter wear low- gloss carbon fiber accents.

Owners can opt for upgraded features such as all-new laser-perforated Black Onyx Neo suede seats, vinyl-wrapped instrument panel topper, leather-wrapped outer seat bolsters and carpet flooring. A thicker and sport-contoured steering wheel with magnesium paddle shifters and gloss black Raptor logo center continues the Ford Performance treatment. Ford Performance- designed front seats are unique to Bronco Raptor, designed with aggressive foam side bolsters to help keep passengers firmly seated when the terrain gets nasty. Available Code Orange seat belts provide even more Ford Performance style.

Bronco Raptor comes standard with a High Package that includes SYNC4 with 12-inch touchscreen with swipe capability, information on-demand panel and enhanced voice recognition. Other technology features include an exterior camera with 360-degree viewing capability. The Lux Package is available for customers looking for even more human-centered technology, such as an available 10-speaker B&O audio system and Adaptive Cruise Control.


Bronco Raptor will arrive to the Middle East in 2022.

*Horsepower rating based on premium fuel per SAE J1349 standard. Your results may vary.

**Assembled in the USA with domestic and foreign parts.

Cadillac Escalade V-Series Super SUV Revealed

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– Press Release –

Cadillac V-Series Lineup Expands to Include Escalade

21 January 2022, Detroit, USA – The 2023 Cadillac Escalade will be the first SUV to don the high-performance V-Series badge. With nearly two decades of racing-inspired prowess, the V-Series designation is reserved for vehicles that encompass the peak of Cadillac performance, bold, distinguished design, and innovative technology.

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