Cars
Land Rover Launches New Discovery Sport
Land Rover’s new Discovery Sport, the compact premium SUV, has been transformed to make it more efficient, technologically-advanced as well as greater practicality, keeping its occupants safe and comfortable in any conditions. Embracing the adventurous spirit that has defined the Discovery family for the past 30 years, the new Discovery Sport is a striking evolution of the original that does not compromise capability.
Demonstrating versatility in a finer form, the spacious, more comfortable and quiet 5+2 interior has been transformed with a completely new infotainment interface and latest connectivity, plus a more flexible seating arrangement with up to 24 combinations. Under the skin, new electrified engines include a 48-volt mild hybrid from launch to help reduce emissions and fuel consumption.
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover Chief Design Officer, said: “Building on the success of the original Discovery Sport, this beautifully proportioned vehicle has been refined, enhancing its characterful exterior which compliments the engaging nature of the interior space.”
Trademark Discovery design cues, including the clamshell bonnet, rising beltline and tapered roof remain, but the new model is a bold exterior evolution. The proportions have been optimised to project a more striking visual with new signature LED headlamps at the front and rear, alongside an updated front grille and bumpers.
Inside, the arrival of the digital Touch Pro infotainment system and the introduction of more premium materials throughout transforms the cabin to create a practical, high quality space. New seats across each of the three rows provide improved comfort and versatility, thanks to the second row 40:20:40 split fold and slide functionality, boosting the possible number of seat combinations to 24 and covering every eventuality – be it the school run or a family holiday.
Felix Brautigam, Chief Commercial Officer at Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Discovery Sport has been a real sales success for Land Rover, leading the way for the past three years and selling almost half a million vehicles to date. During that time, it has won a number of awards and introduced a large number of new, younger families into the brand who are looking for something different.
“The new Land Rover Discovery Sport is a true Land Rover that embodies what the Discovery family stands for: amazing versatility that allows our customers and their families to make more of their world. While the exterior design has undergone a refined evolution, the all-new Premium Transverse Architecture revolutionises comfort and handling and supports electrification with our advanced Mild and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle powertrains.”
The new Discovery Sport is available in S, SE and HSE trim, in addition to the R-Dynamic variant that marks itself out with Shadow Atlas script on the bonnet and tailgate. Inside, branded treadplates further differentiate it from the core model.
Discovery Sport’s unique versatility has been further enhanced, with improved small item stowage across all rows and a 20 per cent increase in fuel tank capacity (up to 65-litres). With the option of Land Rover’s Activity Key, the compact SUV is more usable than ever and designed to take your family further.
Built on Land Rover’s latest Premium Transverse Architecture (PTA), the Discovery Sport provides greater versatility and refinement with a new body that is 13 per cent stiffer than its predecessor and, together with rigidly-mounted subframes that reduce noise and vibration intrusion into the cabin, ensures maximum safety in the event of a collision.
Designed with electrification in mind, PTA allows for the introduction of a new 48-volt mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powertrain on Discovery Sport. First launched on the new Range Rover Evoque, the system uses an engine-mounted belt-integrated starter generator to harvest energy normally lost during deceleration and stores it in an under-floor battery.
At speeds below 17km/h (11mph), the engine will shut off when the driver applies the brakes, before redeploying the stored energy to assist the engine under acceleration to reduce fuel consumption. The new engine and transmissions are refined, quiet and efficient to drive, ensuring that whether on the school run, a drive into the country or heading to the Alps, they offer notable efficiency savings.
Available across the range of four-cylinder Ingenium petrol and diesel engines, the mild hybrid delivers CO2emissions from as low as 144g/km CO2 (NEDC equivalent) and fuel economy up to 40.9mpg (6.9l/100km) (based on WLTP test procedure). An even more efficient plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model and three-cylinder petrol Ingenium engine will also join the range later in 2019.
New Discovery Sport is one of the first of the Land Rover range to use Real Driving Emissions stage 2 (RDE2) certified engines, ahead of their mandatory introduction in 2020. By tracking emissions using a real-world on-road test in addition to traditional laboratory measurements, customers can be certain the latest Ingenium diesel engines available on the compact SUV are cleaner and more efficient than ever.
The most efficient Discovery Sport model will be the Front-Wheel Drive 150PS diesel with manual transmission, offering emissions from as low as 140g/km of CO2 and fuel economy from 47.8mpg (5.9l/100km). To maximise efficiency, models with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) benefit from Driveline Disconnect – a Power Transfer Unit at the front axle that disconnects drive to the rear wheels under steady state cruising, reducing frictional losses and re-engaging AWD in less than 500 milliseconds.
Designed to meet the digital demands of a modern family, the latest Discovery Sport is available with a ‘smart rear view mirror’ that transforms into a video screen at the flick of a switch to display what is behind the vehicle in crisp high definition. Offering a wider (50-degree) field of vision and superior visibility in low light conditions from a camera mounted above the rear window, the mirror ensures rear visibility is not compromised by second row passengers or bulky items in the boot.
Ground View technology has been introduced to help drivers navigate high city centre kerbs or tackle rough terrain by projecting camera imagery that offers a virtual 180-degree view beneath the vehicle onto the touchscreen. Effectively making the bonnet invisible, this is the realisation of Land Rover’s Transparent Bonnet technology, first previewed in 2014.
The digital transformation does not stop there. Wireless charging for compatible mobile devices is introduced for the first time within the lower centre console, alongside USB and 12-volt connectivity points on every row, ensure passengers remain charged and connected. Second and third row occupants also benefit from individual heating and ventilation controls to make the space more comfortable.
For regular drivers of the new Discovery Sport, Smart Settings uses artificial intelligence algorithms to learn driver preferences, adjusting massage and seat positions, music and climate settings and steering column positioning to suit each driver.
The latest Discovery Sport is every inch a Land Rover, combining assured all-terrain handling with all-weather capability, including a wading depth of 600mm, All-Wheel Drive and a second-generation Active Driveline system (engine output dependent). Terrain Response 2 automatically detects the surface and adjusts the torque delivery to best suit the conditions, while Advanced Tow Assist makes reversing with a trailer (up to 2,500kg) more intuitive and safer than ever.
There is a reversing camera as standard on all models, alongside a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Steering Assist, which centres the vehicle in the lane based on road markings as well as maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Other active safety features include Lane Keep Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Driver Condition Monitor.
EVLAB, the multi-brand electric vehicle start-up, has made adopting a sustainable lifestyle easier for drivers in the UAE with the launch of the EVLAB App, an all-in-one mobility app to rent, lease and host their EVs in the UAE with phase 2 to include buy and sell electric vehicles (EVs) available in the Middle East. EVLAB’s new one-stop marketplace app addresses a growing desire among consumers in the Middle East to make a switch to sustainable mobility solutions. Electric vehicle sales have seen rapid growth in the region, with an increase of 72 per cent during 2020 alone.
In line with the goals of COP28, EVLAB is committed to reducing CO2 emissions and fostering sustainable mobility in the Middle East, striving to play a pivotal role in catalyzing positive transformation. The new platform supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative, which is a national drive to achieve net-zero emissions and make the Emirates the first nation in the MENA region to do so. The app also complements other sustainability initiatives in the country, including the Dubai Green Mobility Strategy 2030, which has resulted in the installation of more than 1,000 public charging stations across the UAE.
The EVLAB App allows eco-conscious drivers to browse a unique collection of electric vehicle brands available in the Middle East and take advantage of EVLAB’s expertise to understand the benefits of electric vehicles and make a seamless transition to sustainable transportation. Drivers can consider short-term rentals, leasing or hosting their electric vehicles through a seamless and hassle-free user journey.
The booking process is straightforward with easy navigation using the rent, lease, host and chat tabs on the homepage. Users can filter options based on brand preferences and features, such as performance and range, to save time and effort in finding an electric vehicle that suits their requirements and budget. All the listed cars and their hosts are vetted to guarantee authenticity and quality of service by the owners. In phase 2, electric vehicle owners can also conveniently sell their vehicles on the platform with guidance from EVLAB’s experts at every step of the way.
“With the accelerated pace of climate change, the adoption and transition to e-mobility is inevitable. At EVLAB, our ongoing goal is to consistently reduce emissions, and we are proud to say that we have successfully saved a cumulative total of 76,174 kilograms of CO2 to date and will further reduce with the EVLAB app. The all-in-one EVLAB App complements our EVLAB website with a broader range of functionality and services to make the eco-mobility journey easier for drivers in the region. The app allows users to rent, lease and host their electric vehicles seamlessly in a safe and trusted marketplace. As battery technology is rapidly evolving, the range of electric vehicles today will become obsolete in two to three years, so this model of renting and leasing becomes more attractive than buying. Consumers will have the additional ease of choosing their preferred electric vehicle based on their budget and lifestyle by selecting from a variety of options, including performance, acceleration, range, and charging times,” said Kevin Chalhoub, CEO and Founder of EVLAB.
Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa Headquarters unveiled its sustainability and electric mobility plans at a media event held at the SEE Institute in the Sustainable City, Dubai. The event featured the debut of Hyundai’s electric car range under the IONIQ sub-brand, showcasing the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 models.
Bryan Park, Head of Hyundai Motor Company Middle East and Africa Headquarters, emphasized Hyundai’s commitment to humanity’s progress through pioneering electric technologies. He stated, “Today, we are proud to launch our sustainable strategy and our confident direction towards electric mobility, aligning with the ambitious plans of Middle East countries for emissions-free transportation.”
Suliman AlZaben, Director of Hyundai UAE, expressed pride in Hyundai UAE’s role in the electric revolution, highlighting the company’s dedication to providing environmentally friendly, innovative, and efficient transportation.
The event included a hands-on experience for attendees, enabling them to drive the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 fully electric cars. The IONIQ 5, inspired by Hyundai’s ’45’ EV concept, boasts a unique exterior design, spacious interior, and sustainable features. Its 531-litre trunk space and eco-friendly materials, including recycled PET bottles, emphasize Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability.
The IONIQ 6 Electrified Streamliner, a new addition to the IONIQ lineup, was also introduced. With an estimated electric range of over 610 km, this model showcases Hyundai’s advanced technologies, personalized interior space, and fast charging capabilities.
IONIQ 6’s interior, leveraging the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), prioritizes comfort with Dual Color Ambient Lighting, Relaxation Comfort Seats, and a customizable driving experience through the EV Performance Tune-up system. The vehicle supports both 400-V and 800-V charging infrastructures, allowing for an 18-minute charge from 10% to 80% with a 350-kW charger.
Notably, IONIQ 6 is the first Hyundai model to feature Over-the-Air (OTA) Software Updates, allowing drivers to enhance controllers for electric devices, autonomous driving, and more, ensuring a safer and more convenient driving experience. The advanced driver assistance systems, including Highway Driving Assist 2 and Smart Cruise Control, prioritize safety on the road.
Inter Emirates Motors has announced the introduction of four innovative electric vehicles (EVs) from MG Motor, marking a significant stride in bolstering sustainable mobility across the United Arab Emirates. The introduction of MG4, MG Marvel R, The New MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to the UAE market brings forth a suite of vehicles that seamlessly blend performance, efficiency, and eco-friendly technology, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and driving needs.
The recently launched MG4 is a compact electric hatchback that is set to redefine sustainable mobility in the United Arab Emirates. The MG4 Electric is not just a vehicle; it’s a statement on wheels, offering a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) design, ensuring optimal weight distribution and a nimble driving experience.
The MG4 is powered by an E-Motor that promises 180kW power and features 3-Level Energy Recovery, presenting a perfect amalgamation of performance and efficiency. With its sleek design, interactive ambient light with 64 colours, a 12-inch full virtual dashboard, and a 10-inch touchscreen, the MG4 is a testament to MG Motor’s commitment to providing technologically advanced vehicles without compromising on style or performance.
Mohamed Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Managing Director of Inter Emirates Motors, stated, “The introduction of the MG4 to the UAE market marks a significant milestone for both Inter Emirates Motors and MG Motor. This vehicle is not only a testament to the innovative spirit of MG Motor but also aligns seamlessly with the UAE’s vision for sustainable and technologically advanced mobility solutions. We are incredibly excited to offer our customers not just the MG4, but three more vehicles that perfectly blend performance, technology, and sustainability.”
The MG Marvel R Electric, a mid-sized SUV, is equipped with a large module cell pack solution, ensuring a longer range and employs hair-pin winding technology in its electric motors, guaranteeing an efficient and powerful driving experience. The MG ZS EV, a practical and well-equipped small electric family car, introduces a new long-range version, offering an impressive range at an affordable price, making electric driving accessible to a wider audience.
Lastly, the MG HS PHEV combines the best of both worlds with its plug-in hybrid technology, offering various interior colour options, ambient light, a driving mode selection with a Super Sport button, and sport synthetic leather seats, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic driving experience.
These models are pivotal in aligning with the UAE’s vision towards sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. With the UAE’s robust infrastructure for EVs and a growing emphasis on adopting green vehicles, these models from MG Motor represent not only a luxurious and technologically advanced driving option but also a step towards eco-friendly mobility.
Hisham ElSahn, General Manager of Inter Emirates Motors, added, “The addition of the MG Marvel R, MG ZS EV, and MG HS PHEV to our portfolio underscores our dedication to providing diverse and sustainable mobility solutions. These models are equipped with cutting-edge technology and provide efficient, yet powerful performance, ensuring that our customers in the UAE experience the future of driving, today.”
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