Cars
Honda Announces Additional Engine Grade for 2017 Civic
Honda Motor Co. Africa and Middle East Office has announced the launch of the 2017 Civic with an all-new 1.6L Engine grade in Dubai. Available across all Honda showrooms in GCC, Lebanon and Jordan, the 1.6L Honda Civic provides a completely new option for customers. With two grades namely DX and LX, it aims to reach out to customers looking for value for money.
The 2016 Civic which was launched in April this year in two engine grades namely 2.0L and 1.5L turbo, has seen a marked increase in sales by 86% year on year. Honda aims to further enhance its sales and make its mark in the smaller engine segment with the launch of the 1.6L Civic.
In terms of exterior styling, Civic 1.6L has the same sporty design and athletic stance of the existing 2L Civic range. Some of the standard features include LED Daytime Running Lights(DRL), distinctive C-shaped LED taillights which have been highly appreciated in the region, power side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals and the distinctive chrome grille. The LX boasts of Halogen Fog Lights and 16” Alloy wheels.
The 1.6L Civic interior has the same comfort, sophistication and premium cabin space as the 2.0L and RS models. The 1.6L Civic also offers auto air-conditioning, rear ventilation in LX grade, steering wheel mounted controls for Bluetooth Hands Free Telephone (HFT), a 5-inch touch screen audio and USB jacks. Some standard features in all grades include 60:40 fold down rear seats, rear seat armrest with cup holders, sun visor extension mechanism and map light.
Convenience features in the LX grade include Smart Entry, Push Button Start, Rear Parking Sensors and Remote Engine Starter which starts engine from a distance thereby ensuring that the air-conditioning is switched on and cabin temperature is at maximum comfort before you get in. Both grades have Electric Power Steering, Auto headlight off timer, Electric Parking Brake with Brake Hold Function that replaces hand lever with compact, easy to operate switch.
Powering the Civic 1.6L is the new SOHC i-VTEC engine producing a peak horsepower of 123@6500 rpm and a torque of 151N-m@4300 rpm. The engine is mated to a new generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Civic’s new CVT has a taller final gear ratio for fuel-efficient low-rpm cruising, and new-generation G-Design shift logic for smooth acceleration and natural throttle response. The fuel efficiency of the DX and LX grades are at 18.4 Km/l.
Cars
Tesla Unveils Cybercab and Robovan: A New Era of Autonomous Transportation
Tesla has finally revealed its highly anticipated driverless robotaxi, the Cybercab, and a larger autonomous vehicle called the Robovan. These groundbreaking vehicles represent a significant step forward in the company’s mission to revolutionize transportation.
The Cybercab, designed to resemble a sleek, futuristic vehicle, features a minimalist interior and advanced autonomous driving technology. It is expected to cost less than $30,000 and will begin unsupervised full self-driving trials in Texas and California next year.
Tesla also surprised attendees with the debut of the Robovan, a larger, more versatile vehicle capable of transporting up to 20 people or a significant amount of cargo. Its design is reminiscent of a futuristic sci-fi movie and offers potential applications for both commercial and personal use.
In addition to these new vehicles, Tesla showcased its Optimus humanoid robots, which are expected to be available for purchase in the coming years. These robots are designed to assist humans with various tasks and could be used in manufacturing and healthcare industries.
The unveiling of these innovative vehicles marks a significant milestone for Tesla and highlights the company’s commitment to developing cutting-edge autonomous technology. As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of electric transportation, the future of mobility looks increasingly promising.
Cars
Rolls-Royce Unveils Black Badge Ghost Series II
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has today unveiled the Black Badge Ghost Series II, a daring and powerful new expression of its iconic Ghost model. This latest addition to the Black Badge family is the most agile, driver-focused, and technically advanced Rolls-Royce ever created.
Powered by an uncompromising 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine in a high-power configuration, the Black Badge Ghost Series II delivers exceptional performance. The all-wheel-drive, all-wheel-steering chassis, combined with the Black Badge Planar Suspension System, ensures a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.
The exterior design of the Black Badge Ghost Series II is equally striking, featuring a unique lower grille, darkened chrome accents, and a dramatic 22-inch wheelset. The interior is equally impressive, with luxurious materials, advanced technology, and a focus on driver comfort and control.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “Black Badge Ghost Series II responds to a very specific demand among our clients – those who wish to enjoy the potency of this motor car’s uncompromising engine and inherent agility almost exclusively from the driver’s seat.”
Juliane Blasi, Head of Exterior Design at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, added, “With Black Badge Ghost Series II, we have introduced subtle but impactful design impulses that clearly signal this motor car’s incredible agility and power.”
The Black Badge Ghost Series II is available to commission now, alongside the Ghost Series II and Ghost Extended Series II.
Cars
Sinotruk Enters UAE Market with New Brand VGV
Chinese automotive giant Sinotruk, a pioneer in the heavy-duty truck industry, has officially entered the UAE market with its new passenger vehicle brand, VGV (Visionable Global Vanguard). Established in 1930, Sinotruk has a long innovation and technical excellence history. The company’s decision to expand into the passenger car market is a testament to its growing global ambitions.
The new VGV showroom is in Al Qouz 1, Dubai, UAE. The brand offers various vehicles, including SUVs, pickups, vans, and MPVs, powered by various energy sources such as electric, hybrid, fuel, diesel, and alternative energy.
VGV’s SUV models are designed to cater to families, offering spacious interiors and advanced safety features. The pickup models, powered by the renowned Wei Chai Engine manufactured by Sinotruk, are known for their durability and performance.
Prices for VGV vehicles start at AED 73,000, making them an attractive option for consumers seeking quality and affordability.