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MG Returns to Motorsport with new ‘MG XPOWER’ Division

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SAIC Motor, the parent company of British-born MG Motor, has launched ‘MG XPOWER’ – a new high-performance sports division. MG Motor has a long history in the world of motorsport, with performance in its DNA since the 1920s. This genuine performance pedigree allows the brand to return to the track and offer drivers the same levels of cutting-edge technology, style and comfort they expect from MG, with added performance fun.

At the opening ceremony of MG’s 95th anniversary, the MG6 XPOWER TCR racing model – the first model to be given the XPOWER name – made its world premiere at the Shanghai Motor Show. With aggressive exterior styling and ‘British Green’ paint, the new MG6 XPOWER is inspired by MG’s rich sporting heritage. It’s 350hp 2.0T turbocharged engine offers acceleration of 0-100km in just four seconds, and is equipped with an X-Trac six-speed sequential transmission, paddle shift controls and adjustable differential lock.

As well as a power boost, the MG6 XPOWER has been given an equipment upgrade including a leather steering wheel, XDS corner dynamic control system, direct tire pressure monitoring, open and close sports exhaust, black sports kit, and a BOSE sound system.

Encouraging and supporting the up and coming generation of speed enthusiasts, MG’s XPOWER High Performance Sports Division will launch a rewards programme which will see young people who race and win in the performance models rewarded with generous prizes.

Two other models to debut at Shanghai Motor Show were the new modified version of the 2019 MG 6 and the 2019 MG6 NEV – the latest derivatives of MG’s head-turning hero car – complete with distinctive ‘Star Rider’ grille, LED headlights, slick curves and muscular proportions. The latest MG6 models come generously equipped with cutting-edge technology and a stylish red and black leather upholstery helping it stand out on the road. 

Production of the new 2019 sports coupe MG6 and MG XPOWER MG 6 series will be announced soon.

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BMW Shows Off the new Vision Neue Klasse X SAV

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A new BMW Group Vision Vehicle provides a first glimpse of the Neue Klasse as an SAV: The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X brings the aesthetics, technology, sustainability, and philosophy of the Neue Klasse to the Sports Activity Vehicles sector. The first fully electric raised derivative on the new architecture will go into series production at Plant Debrecen (Hungary) in 2025.

“Together with the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X showcases the breadth of our future BMW model line-up. The Neue Klasse reflects the variety of all the models that customers want today and, in the future, – from sporty sedan, with all its derivatives, to modern SAV family,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “In this way, we are underlining that the Neue Klasse is much more than just a car or a specific concept; it is redefining the BMW brand – and, at the same time, will be more BMW than ever.”

The company presented a clear picture of the brand’s future as a sedan with the BMW Vision Neue Klasse at IAA 2023. The latest Vision Vehicle now illustrates how BMW sees the future of its X models. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X stands for an active lifestyle, efficient dynamics and a confident stance. Its design combines a clear exterior design language with a bright and spacious interior. Special lighting and sound effects enabled by the next generation of BMW iDrive enhance the intuitive digital user experience. The three main characteristics of the Neue Klasse – electric, digital and circular – are expanded here to include a fourth dimension. The driving pleasure that forms the core of the BMW brand is taken to the next level with drive and chassis control developed especially for the Neue Klasse and with the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology. Its sustainability concept also ensures responsible production, operations, disassembly and recycling.

A new type of drive and chassis control delivers a superior driving experience that is tailored to individual needs. It is based on a new software stack developed in-house by the BMW Group that will help the vehicles of the Neue Klasse guarantee a smooth drive at all times. Two out of four new super-brains will take the driving experience in the Neue Klasse to a new dimension.

“Neue Klasse means BMW driving at an even higher level,” explains Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “The BMW of the future will have four new super-brains: high-performance computers working smartly together on what, up until now, was processed separately. We developed the first super-brain completely in-house. It integrates the entire powertrain and driving dynamics with up to ten times more computing power. The second super-brain will enable the next quantum leap in automated driving,” Weber continues. “Going forward, we will combine four key control units in a single high-performance computer. The result will be more dynamic performance, more precision, more efficiency and even more fun to drive.”

In combination with the two-box design of a BMW X model, the pared-down design language developed for the Neue Klasse also represents a major leap forward in both exterior and interior design. With its increased ground clearance, the fully electric vehicle architecture offers new possibilities for an even more spacious interior. It allows for a long wheelbase, short overhangs and classic BMW proportions. Large window areas and the panoramic glass roof flood the interior with natural light, creating an airy spaciousness that is complemented by textiles in warm colours.

“The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X provides a look ahead to the X models of the Neue Klasse. The same principles apply to our Sport Activity Vehicles: electric, digital and circular,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.
“The X models will always remain strong in character: monolithic, clean and with a very distinctive vertical interpretation of the BMW light signature.”

The new brand look for the BMW X models also contributes to the Vision Vehicle’s strong presence. Vertically aligned LED units offer a fresh interpretation of BMW’s hallmark light signature. Front and centre is the BMW kidney grille, reimagined as a three-dimensional sculpture with vertically aligned and backlit contours. Together, the headlights and kidney grille create a lighting effect that is activated as the driver approaches the vehicle and continues in the interior.

The rear section is powerful and athletic. Rear lights that reach far into the centre provide a horizontal interpretation of the familiar BMW L shape. Its 3D-printed elements are individually controlled with variable light intensity to convey a particularly expressive depth effect. Flush glass surfaces and the bright “Coral Silver” exterior paintwork give the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X a certain lightness. In the rear portion of the side windows, the brand’s signature Hofmeister kink is realised not through chrome edging, but with a “reflective print” that forms a transparent or reflective surface, depending on the viewing angle.

The slightly elevated seating position ensures a confident driving experience. The redesigned steering wheel with multifunction buttons, Central Display with intuitive touch control functionality and BMW Panoramic Vision, together with the advanced voice control of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, serve as effortless and intuitive interfaces for human-car interaction. BMW Panoramic Vision projects key information across the full width of the windscreen. It will be complemented in production models of the Neue Klasse by the enhanced BMW 3D Head-Up Display.

In the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X, the Central Display is elegantly integrated into the instrument panel, providing both front passengers with optimal access to all infotainment functions. The colours shown are not only transferred to the ambient light but also to the backlit textile surfaces of the instrument panel.

The Personal Sound Experience, presented for the first time with the new HYPERSONX WHEEL, opens up further possibilities. With this digital function, car occupants can enjoy their favourite sound on any trip. The sound, generated in real-time and adjusted with the tap of a finger on the HYPERSONX WHEEL, is an innovative contribution to the immersive and holistic user experience that transforms the interior of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X into a personal experience space.

In the Neue Klasse, overall vehicle efficiency reaches a new level. The latest, sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology is key to this. In addition to improved e-drive units, it also features new and now round lithium-ion battery cells, with a volumetric energy density more than 20 per cent higher than that of the prismatic cells previously used. In combination with the transition to an 800-volt system, this will improve charging speed by up to 30 per cent – allowing vehicles to charge enough for a 300-kilometre range in just ten minutes. The sixth generation of BMW eDrive also delivers up to 30 per cent more range. When it comes to aerodynamics, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X boasts an impressive new top figure: with drag reduced by 20 percent to a comparable model in the current line-up. New tyre designs and a special brake system for fully electric vehicles help increase overall vehicle efficiency by up to 25 per cent.

A completely plant-based, mineral-based and petroleum-free surface material “Verdana” was developed for the interior. It will be used in the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X in the lower portion of the door panelling and in the centre console. Maritime plastics are also being utilised for the first time for injection-moulded parts. In selected components, this secondary raw material, which is obtained, for example, from discarded fishing nets, already accounts for 30 per cent.

The choice of materials and construction methods enable easier disassembly of components and improved recyclability. The side skirts and front and rear apron attachments are also produced from recycled mono-materials. In this, the new design concept follows the principle of the BMW i Vision Circular presented in 2021, which relied extensively on mono-materials to optimise recyclability. The Neue Klasse also heralds a new chapter in production history. BMW Group Plant Debrecen in Hungary was planned and developed as an iFACTORY.

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Galadari Automobiles Inaugurates New Showroom and Launches Mazda CX-60 and CX-90 Models in the UAE

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Galadari Automobiles Co. has launched the MAZDA CX-60 and CX-90 models during the inaugural ceremony of the all-new Mazda Showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. With meticulous precision, the first-ever Mazda CX-60 and CX-90 models have been built to embody automotive perfection, striking an ideal balance between performance and finesse. Both the CX-60 and CX-90 models are offered with a powerful and responsive 3.3L Inline-6 Turbocharged engine, combined with a 48V mild hybrid system.

This combination delivers an output of 284 hp and 450 Nm of torque in the CX-60, as well as a peak output of 345 hp and an impressive 500 Nm of torque in the CX-90. Furthermore, the fuel efficiency of the CX-60 is 15.4 km/L while that of the CX-90 is 14.3 km/L, which in itself is best-in-class. These key specifications distinguish the two models within the automotive landscape in terms of power and efficiency.

The all-new state-of-the-art showroom serves as a true reflection of the global brand identity of Mazda, a brand renowned for its sophisticated design and exhilarating performance. The showroom showcases an impressive line-up of the brand’s luxury vehicles with its spacious and minimalistic design. It further exemplifies Galadari Automobiles’ unwavering commitment to providing customers with a seamless and exceptional automotive experience.

Mohammed Abdullatif Ibrahim Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers commented, “Galadari Automobiles Co. has played a pivotal role in the success of Galadari Brothers Group, holding a prominent position in the UAE’s automotive industry. With more than five decades of partnership with Mazda, the company has remained committed to consistently making the customer’s experience of owning a car as exciting, enjoyable, and value-added as possible. At Galadari Brothers, we seek to make a substantial contribution to the UAE’s vision and developmental journey. Our overarching objective is to become a key driving force in the country’s technological, economic, sustainable progress, in line with our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence.”

He added: “The inauguration of our all-new Mazda showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road symbolises our unrelenting commitment to excellence in the automotive industry. We are further pleased to launch the first-ever Mazda CX-60 and CX-90, which are the epitome of innovation, performance and style. Beyond presenting a fine selection of Mazda’s revolutionary new models, we have completely redesigned the showroom with state-of-the-art facilities, to enrich customer experiences. We look forward to working together with Mazda Corporation, to continue influencing the automotive industry in the years to come.”

The UAE’s top-notch infrastructure and convenient roads offer an ideal environment for car owners to enjoy the vehicles’ luxe features, leading to rising demand for comfort and opulent features among the population, coupled with a preference for upscale and luxury products. Galadari Automobiles Co. has strategically positioned itself at the forefront of innovation to effectively meet the demands of the UAE automotive market.

Axel Dreyer, Chief Executive Officer at Galadari Automotive Group Co. Ltd. stated, “The exclusive launch of the first-ever Mazda CX-60 and CX-90 in UAE, together with the opening of our all-new showroom, exemplifies our commitment to delivering the best possible services and models to the country. We look forward to providing customers with an exceptional driving experience, and setting new standards in the premium vehicle segment, solidifying our position in the automotive industry.”

The first-ever Mazda CX-60, positioned as a Sports Utility Vehicle, is a blend of luxury and elegance, with a capacity of 5 passengers, featuring advanced face recognition technology that identifies the owner/driver of the vehicle and customises the car according to their tastes and preferences. It further entails numerous cutting-edge technologies, which are carefully designed to safeguard drivers and passengers.

Furthermore, the first-ever Mazda CX-90 is a powerful three-row family luxury car that demonstrates a seamless blend of innovation and high-quality craftsmanship. Every single detail of the CX-90 model has been designed in unison, starting with the driver’s seat to the other parts of the vehicle. The model has been engineered to provide customers with the most immersive, performance-focused driving ever created in a three-row Mazda SUV, setting forth a front-engine, rear-biased, all-wheel-drive experience. In the UAE, the CX-90 is available in both 6-seater and 8-seater versions.

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The Elite Cars Launches Zenvo Aurora in the Region

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The Elite Cars, the authorized distributor of Danish-brand Zenvo Automotive across the MENA region, launched the Zenvo Aurora on February 21, 2024. Inspired by the majestic Aurora Borealis, the newest model comes in two distinct and purposeful derivatives, the Agil and Tur, and will be limited to just 50 pieces of each model. Notably, nearly 50% of the highly-anticipated models have already been booked for pre-production.

Mahmoud Imran, Sales and Operations Manager at The Elite Cars and Chairman of the Board and Chief Commercial Officer of Zenvo, Jens Sverdrup, introduced the eagerly awaited hypercar. The grand reveal was orchestrated by a synchronised light performance that emulated the graceful and impactful movements of the Aurora Borealis. Renowned for crafting artisan hypercars, Zenvo stands out with the Aurora as its lightest and most innovative model to date, starting at Euros 2.590 million (approximately AED 11-12 million). It features the most powerful V12 engine ever fitted to a road car. At the heart, a 6.6-litre quad-turbocharged V12 engine paired with lightweight electric motors produces 1850 hp for the Tur and 1450 hp for the Agil.

Designed by in-house chief designer, Christian Brandt, both derivatives bring Danish artistry and ingenuity to the hypercar market for the first time, inspired by the famous ‘form follows function’ design language. Utilising Formula 1 technologies and processes, the Aurora is designed with driving pleasure in mind, achieving the 0-100km/h sprint in as little as 2.3 seconds, and to a top speed of 450 km/h. With both two- and four-wheel-drive drivetrains, it can travel up to 35 km on pure electric power.

Both models feature a lightweight chassis design, cleanly channelling the airflow through the structure to aid downforce and stability. The aerodynamically aggressive Aurora Agil features a stripped-out cabin and rear-wheel drive system as standard, tipping the scales at 1,300kg, with a clear focus on track driving. The more classically styled Aurora Tur offers elevated luxury and is a permanent four-wheel-drive, with two additional electric motors on the front wheels providing 200 bph each, enhancing speed and stability for road driving.

“We are filled with immense pride as we officially unveil the limited-edition Zenvo Aurora in the UAE as the authorised distributor for the brand across the region. This partnership between The Elite Cars and Zenvo is a natural synergy, as we both share a deep passion for automotive excellence, a commitment to exceeding expectations and a dedication to providing clientele with the greatest in luxury and performance,” said Tamer Abu Khalaf,  Co-Founder at The Elite Cars. “With the UAE as a global hub of luxury, the Zenvo Aurora represents the pinnacle of artisanal craftsmanship for automotive enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, offering an unparalleled ownership experience.”

“We are thrilled to be unveiling the Zenvo Aurora for the first time in the UAE market with our partners The Elite Cars,” explains the Chairman of the Board and Chief Commercial Officer of Zenvo, Jens Sverdrup. “The new model is best described as an equilibrium of extremes. We just wanted to build an uncompromised driver’s car, which delivered on every level, but without any one aspect negatively impacting another. The outcome has given us two models, which complement each other, deliver true driving pleasure and, almost as a byproduct, offer incredible performance.”

Zenvo Aurora will be hand-built at the Zenvo headquarters in Præstø, Denmark, with first deliveries expected in 2026.

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