Cars
Lucid Motors Opens Reservations for the Lucid Air in the Middle East
Lucid Motors has today announced it is now accepting reservations for its groundbreaking Lucid Air sports sedan in select countries in the Middle East. Reservations for the Lucid Air are initially open in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
These countries were selected for a combination of market size and demand for technologically advanced vehicles, with Lucid expected to expand regional availability in the near future. The reservation fee for these countries is 3,800 SAR or AED, roughly equivalent to $1,000, with deliveries of the Lucid Air to the first Middle East customers expected in late 2021.
The Lucid Air was designed from the outset with proprietary technology that allows for optimized efficiency and performance. Lucid has developed a world-leading integrated electric powertrain, including battery pack, motors, power electronics, and software – all operating at an ultra-high 900V+ architecture for ultimate efficiency – creating a new benchmark powertrain that is the most powerful for its size and weight in the world. The result of this focus on engineering excellence is expected to be an industry-leading range of 400+ miles per charge, alongside up to 1,000 horsepower.
“The Middle East is in a unique position to help ensure the growth of the EV market worldwide and we are very excited to offer the Lucid Air in a region that is expected to become a key market,” said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO, Lucid Motors. “As the region actively diversifies from traditional industries and explores new renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, Lucid will be able to offer a pure-electric vehicle that meets the unique needs of consumers, including real inter-city range alongside unsurpassed power and luxury.”
The production version of the Lucid Air will debut in 2020. In addition to the vehicle’s final interior and exterior designs, new details on production specifications, available configurations, and pricing information will also be shared. The company is developing what is intended to be the world’s most advanced electric car, including battery packs with unmatched energy density and electric motors that are incredibly powerful yet efficient.
Lucid has already manufactured more than half of the expected 80 beta prototypes of the Air at the company’s Silicon Valley headquarters, which are being used for comprehensive testing and validation for key vehicle dynamics, as well as crash testing to ensure comprehensive passenger safety.
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.
Cars
Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles Launch the Audi Q2
Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles have launched the Audi Q2 in the UAE. The vehicle will be on display at 25hours Hotel One Central from October 3rd to 6th, 2024. Audi customers and car enthusiasts are invited to be part of the exclusive celebration marking the arrival of the new Audi Q2 under the vibrant theme of ‘Paint the Town’.
Guests who visit on October 3rd will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a hands-on spray-painting session surrounding the new car, indulge in Q2-inspired mocktails, relish in live music from DJ Tala Samman and be among the first to explore the stylish and comfortable feature of the Audi Q2.
“The arrival of the Audi Q2 is a testament to our dedication to bringing the best in design, technology, and innovation to our customers in Dubai and the Northern Emirates,” said K. Rajaram, CEO of Al Nabooda Automobiles. “This segment serves as a gateway into the Audi family for younger buyers seeking to purchase their first vehicle or upgrade their current one. Its youthful, modern styling combined with upgraded technology makes it the perfect choice for those who demand versatility and a dynamic driving experience in every setting.”
The Audi Q2 receives a significant upgrade to its infotainment system, as well as the addition of the virtual cockpit and an 8.8-inch touchscreen as the central control unit for the MMI (Multi-Media Interface). In addition, a convenient storage compartment replaces the previous rotary/push button. Audi Q2 is now available across all Audi, Al Nabooda Automobiles showrooms, with a starting price of AED 139,900.
Cars
Ford Launches the 2025 Explorer
The all-new 2025 Ford Explorer is here to redefine the midsize SUV segment. With a striking new design, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on comfort and performance, the Explorer is a versatile vehicle that caters to the needs of modern families and adventure seekers alike.
The 2025 Explorer boasts a bold and athletic exterior with a redesigned front fascia, grille, and headlights. The interior has also been updated with premium materials, enhanced comfort features, and a more intuitive layout. The spacious cabin offers ample seating for up to seven passengers and plenty of cargo room for your adventures.
Under the hood, the Explorer offers a range of powerful engine options to suit different driving styles. The advanced technology package includes a large touchscreen display, a digital instrument cluster, and a suite of driver-assistance features for added safety and convenience.
Whether you’re commuting to work, embarking on a family road trip, or hitting the trails for an adventure, the 2025 Ford Explorer delivers a refined and enjoyable driving experience. With its combination of style, comfort, performance, and technology, the Explorer is a standout choice in the midsize SUV segment.
“The Explorer has been a mainstay of Ford’s lineup for 34 years and we’re really excited to bring the latest edition of one of the world’s most popular SUVs to the region,” says Andrew Gregory, Brand Marketing Manager for Explorer at Ford Middle East. “With an expansive range of three distinctive, versatile trims, we have meticulously recrafted the Explorer with upgraded technologies and features that equip drivers – and passengers – for whatever adventures life brings their way.”