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All-New 2021 Ford F-150 Arrives in the Middle East

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With a reputation for toughness and a proven track record of 44 consecutive years as America’s favorite truck, the Ford F-series lineup has continually raised the standards expected of all light duty trucks. And the all-new F-150 – launched in the Middle East today – is purpose-built to be the toughest, most productive F-150 ever.

The all-new F-150 raises the standard for all light-duty trucks. It boasts best-in-class towing and payload capability, introduces all-new features to increase customer productivity, and an available all-new 3.5-litre PowerBoost hybrid powertrain with Pro Power Onboard – an integrated power generator.

“We see it as our duty to deliver not just what our customers want and need, but what they might have never thought possible,” said Pedro Simoes, Middle East Marketing Director, Ford Direct Markets. “The F-150 is tougher than ever, packed with more advanced technology, and loaded with features that encourage owners to get out and enjoy their trucks more.”

The all-new F-150 starts with a durable, proven foundation – a fully boxed high-strength steel frame with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy body. Every panel of the distinctive, rugged exterior is redesigned while maintaining its bold and tough signature look, including an updated headlamp design, new power dome hood and wrap-around bumpers. Higher front fenders, a tucked-in midsection and larger-diameter tyres pulled out three-quarters of an inch create a stronger, more powerful stance on and off the road.

There are nine grille options available across the series lineup, all differentiated in their design and all unmistakably F-150, plus new tailgate appliqués. Functional upgrades throughout include available LED headlamps and taillamps, and available full-length extended power running boards with kick switch that provide better truck-side cargo box accessibility.

The all-new F-150 is also the most aerodynamic ever. New active grille shutters and new cab and tailgate geometry all work together to reduce drag and improve fuel consumption on every truck.

The interior is completely redesigned to elevate truck owners’ experience with style, comfort, utility and technology. Featuring enhanced materials, new color choices and more storage, it is built around the functional needs of truck customers. Every surface has been thoughtfully designed, such as more soil-resistant two-tone seats for XL or the new standard dual glovebox.

F-150 introduces an all-new 12-inch centre screen – standard on XLT high series and above – that allows customers to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously, including navigation, music or truck features. The landscape design strikes a balance between demands for technology accessibility and the greater convenience of physical buttons. An 8-inch touch screen, standard on XL and XLT standard and mid-series trucks, means every customer gets touch screen functionality and better rearview camera vision. Both screens feature access to the new digital owner’s manual, which can help all customers find the information they need more easily.

An available new 12-inch digital gauge cluster features a large information-on-demand area, along with truck-specific graphics and animations that respond to the all-new F-150’s selectable drive modes and can display off-roading data and turn-by-turn navigation.

Ford’s deep understanding of truck customers informs new features on the all-new F-150 that help take productivity to the next level. Creating the ultimate durable, anywhere office, F-150’s new optional Interior Work Surface is ideal for signing documents, working on a laptop or enjoying a meal when parked. It is available in both bench and captain’s chair seating configurations on XL to Limited. Knowing many customers prefer a console shifter, Ford has created a stowable unit for F-150, which easily folds into the centre console with the push of a button and allows full access to the large work surface when in park.

Class-exclusive Max Recline Seats available on Platinum and Limited models provide ultimate comfort during downtime. Max Recline Seats fold flat to nearly 180 degrees, with the bottom cushion rising to meet the back cushion and the upper back support rotating forward up to 10 degrees for maximum comfort.

Available lockable, fold-flat rear storage adds a vault to the F-150 that extends the width of the rear seats. It’s as easy as lifting the bottom cushion of the rear seat, dropping valuables in and locking them away for safe keeping.

Every all-new F-150 comes standard with new cleats mounted to the sides of the tailgate to act as tie-down locations for extra-long items in the bed, while new clamp pockets are built in to the tailgate of every truck. An available flat Tailgate Work Surface also includes integrated rulers, a mobile device holder, cupholder and pencil holder for those who use the F-150 for work or DIY projects around the home.

Customers can keep going into the night with exclusive available Zone Lighting. This allows occupants to turn on and off individual sections of exterior lights through the SYNC® 4 screen or remotely with the FordPass app on their phone, so they never have to work, camp or do anything in the dark.

The all-new F-150 is the only light-duty full-size pickup to offer available Trailer Reverse Guidance and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. Trailer Reverse Guidance, made popular on Super Duty, uses the truck’s high-resolution cameras to provide multiple views along with helpful graphics that tell drivers which way to turn the steering wheel while backing up. Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes backing up a trailer as easy as turning a dial, continues on F-150.

The all-new 2021 launches with a choice of four engines – three V6 options, including the segment’s first ever full hybrid powertrain – and a naturally aspirated V8. The all-new 3.5-litre PowerBoost full-hybrid V6 powertrain is targeted to deliver the most torque and horsepower of any light-duty full-size pickup. Available on every trim level from F-150 XL to Limited, the no-compromise PowerBoost system – the only light-duty full-size pickup to offer a full hybrid – adds instant electric torque to Ford’s 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6. It is targeting an estimated range of approximately 1,100km on a single tank of gasᶧ and will deliver at least 5,400kg of available maximum towing – equivalent to the average weight of ten fully grown dromedary camels.

PowerBoost combines Ford’s proven EcoBoost engine and 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with a 35-kilowatt (47-horsepower) electric motor integrated into the transmission, as well as software calibrated specially for truck use, including drive modes like tow/haul mode to help customers better manage towing heavy trailers.

The electric motor applies regenerative braking energy capture to help recharge the 1.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery. The battery is efficiently packaged underneath the truck, leaving the cab and cargo box of PowerBoost F-150 as spacious for passengers and cargo as other comparably equipped F-150 models. The system is capable of sustained battery usage at extreme outside temperatures or under heavy loads.

Power isn’t only important under the hood. Available Pro Power Onboard expands F-150’s capability by bringing generator levels of exportable power to work sites, camp sites and everyday life. Pro Power Onboard is available on the PowerBoost-equipped F-150, providing 2.3 kilowatts of output to help drive productivity. Power is accessible through in-cabin outlets and up to four cargo bed-mounted outlets, including one 230V three-pin socket for Middle East markets. There’s enough power to run a heavy-duty air compressor, or power your campsite for the evening.

Other engine options include the 3.5-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine which produces 400 horsepower and 677 Nm torque, and the naturally-aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine that develops 400 horsepower and 555 Nm of torque to give it best-in-class payload capabilities.

All-new SYNC 4 debuts in the F-150 and is standard across all trim levels, helping keep owners connected and make their days more productive with more natural voice control available as well as customisable information on demand. The technology builds on more than 10 years of SYNC innovation by helping minimise distractions with hands-free voice control as well as core features such as making phone calls and selecting music. With twice the computing power of the previous-generation system, new SYNC 4 can wirelessly connect smartphones without the USB cord for seamless integration of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility as well as SYNC AppLink apps like Waze.

The new eight-speaker B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen is available starting on F-150 XLT, while the optional 18-speaker B&O Unleashed system with speakers in the headliner and front headrests is available on F-150 Lariat and Platinum, and standard on Limited.

All-new F-150 offers the latest driver-assist features as part of Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0. More features are now standard on XL, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection to help avoid a possible collision with another vehicle or a pedestrian, rearview camera with dynamic hitch assist, auto high-beam headlamps and auto on/off headlamps.

F-150 also adds 10 new driver-assist features that include Intersection Assist, which detects oncoming traffic while the driver is attempting a left turn. If there is risk of a collision with an oncoming vehicle, F-150 will apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid it. F-150 is the only light-duty full-size pickup with available Active Park Assist 2.0, which handles all steering, shifting, braking and accelerator controls during a parallel or perpendicular parking maneuver while the driver holds down a button.

The all-new 2021 F-150 is available in showrooms across the region.

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NIO Launches the ET5 and EC6 Electric Vehicles

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NIO has announced the arrival of its highly anticipated models, the ET5 and EC6, in the UAE. Combining cutting-edge technology, luxurious design, and sustainable performance, these vehicles are now available for purchase, marking a significant milestone in NIO’s regional expansion and its commitment to meeting the growing demand for premium EVs in the UAE.

NIO ET5
The NIO ET5 is a mid-size smart electric sedan that redefines performance driving with its aerodynamic design, advanced technology, and eco-friendly interior. The ET5’s sleek silhouette is accentuated by signature Double-Dash daytime lighting and an IllumiBlade taillight, creating a striking visual presence. Features like soft-close doors, automatic flush door handles, and a panoramic sunroof with UV filtering elevate both convenience and sophistication.

Under the hood, the ET5 is powered by the ADAM Supercomputer, featuring NVIDIA technology, and equipped with 33 high-performance sensors and cameras, including LiDAR, for unmatched intelligence and safety. The vehicle also boasts a 7.1.4 immersive sound system with 23 speakers and 1,000 watts of power, delivering a premium audio experience. The NOMI AI assistant adds intuitive interaction, making every drive seamless and enjoyable.

Inside, the ET5 embodies NIO’s “second living room” philosophy, featuring Clean+ Sustainable Fabric made from recycled PET bottles. The cabin is designed for comfort and safety, with ventilated and massage front sports seats, a smart fragrance system with an ionizer, and 23 safety and driver assistance features. The ET5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds, thanks to its high-efficiency electric powertrain using SiC technology. Available with 75 kWh or 100 kWh battery options, the ET5 offers a range of up to 615 km (NEDC) on the 100 kWh Long Range Battery.

The ET5 is available in five sky-themed exterior colours and six earth-inspired leather interior options, with customization choices like 19” Cloud wheels or 20” Gladiator wheels and orange-painted Brembo brake callipers. Priced from AED 199,900, the ET5 is now available for UAE customers.

NIO EC6
The NIO EC6 is a smart electric coupe SUV that combines dynamic design, advanced technology, and sustainable performance. Its sleek coupe-inspired stance and distinctive front design make a bold statement, while features like invisible air vents and a dual-mode active rear spoiler enhance aerodynamics and style.

Like the ET5, the EC6 is equipped with 33 high-performance sensors and cameras, powered by the ADAM Supercomputer with NVIDIA technology. The vehicle features a 9.3-inch enhanced head-up display and an NIO high-performance 4-piston fixed calliper for superior braking performance. Inside, the EC6 prioritizes comfort with ventilated and massaging front and rear seats, a front passenger lounge seat with a footrest, and a smart fragrance system with an ionizer.

The EC6’s all-wheel-drive system delivers 360 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. Available with 75 kWh or 100 kWh battery options, the EC6 offers a range of up to 550 km (NEDC) on the 100 kWh Long Range Battery. The EC6 is available in five sky-themed exterior colours and four earth-inspired Nappa leather interior options, with customization choices like 20” Insignia wheels or 21” Blossom wheels and orange-painted Brembo brake callipers. Priced from AED 239,900, the EC6 is now available in the UAE.

Both the ET5 and EC6 are powered by NIO’s Multi-Domain Vehicle Operating System, which integrates autonomous driving, smart cabins, connectivity, and digital cockpits into a seamless and intuitive driving experience. The vehicles also feature the Banyan system, which powers their smart functionality and is continuously updated through firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates.

NIO’s Aquila Super Sensing system, equipped with LiDAR technology, detects objects up to 500 meters away, while 8 MP high-resolution cameras can spot vehicles 680 meters away. These features, combined with advanced algorithms, set a new benchmark for intelligent driving systems in production vehicles.

NIO is also introducing its innovative NIO Power smart power service solution in the UAE. The service includes Power Swap Stations, which use patented battery swap technology to recharge vehicles in as little as three minutes. The first station is set to launch in Abu Dhabi, with additional locations across the UAE planned for this year. NIO Power Home chargers are also available with the purchase of NIO vehicles, offering users a convenient home charging solution.

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The BMW iX Will Be Available From Q2 of 2025

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BMW has unveiled an enhanced version of the iX, its flagship electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). The updated model boasts a significantly extended range, reaching up to 700 kilometres on a single charge (WLTP) while delivering even more impressive performance.

Key enhancements:

  1. Extended Range: The iX xDrive45 now boasts a WLTP range of up to 602 kilometres, while the iX xDrive60 achieves a remarkable 700 kilometres, setting a new benchmark in the segment.
  2. Increased Power: All models receive a power boost. The iX xDrive45 now delivers 408 hp, while the iX xDrive60 produces 544 hp. The top-of-the-line iX M70 xDrive pushes the limits with 659 hp and a blistering 0-100 km/h time of just 3.5 seconds.
  3. Refined Design: The iX features subtle yet impactful design updates, including a redesigned kidney grille, new headlight designs, and optional M Sport packages that enhance its sporty character.
  4. Enhanced Technology: The iX incorporates the latest advancements in BMW eDrive technology, including optimized battery cells, new inverter technology, and improved aerodynamics.

The new BMW iX will be available in the Middle East region from the second quarter of 2025 in three variants: the iX xDrive45, the iX xDrive60, and the high-performance iX M70 xDrive. Production continues at the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing, Germany.

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Hyundai Motor Launches IONIQ 9 Electric SUV

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Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the IONIQ 9, a three-row, all-electric SUV that blends expansive interior space with cutting-edge design and innovative EV technology. The IONIQ 9 was showcased at the iconic Goldstein House in LA, a celebrated mid-century modern architectural gem. This venue mirrors Hyundai Motor’s vision of positioning the IONIQ lineup as a beacon of innovation and progress in the EV market, emphasizing its leadership in electrification. By 2030, Hyundai aims to offer a full lineup of 23 EV models.

The World Premiere event kicked off with a keynote speech by José Muñoz, the President and Global Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor Company. After the unveiling of the IONIQ 9, the event featured a terrace talk session exploring the Hyundai brand and the IONIQ 9’s design and space, along with an exhibition zone showcasing its development journey.

The IONIQ 9 offers an attractive new option for customers seeking a three-row EV that can accommodate up to seven occupants. It provides impressive space and features that cater to individual needs while fostering a sense of togetherness — it is truly ‘Built to Belong’. The IONIQ 9 is designed to meet the needs of consumers who are hyper-connected yet also value space, privacy, and relaxation.

“IONIQ 9 embodies Hyundai Motor’s unwavering commitment and confidence in electrification,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s acclaimed Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), IONIQ 9 offers outstanding interior space, providing customers with unique value while solidifying our leadership in the global EV market.”

The IONIQ 9 boasts superior roominess with expansive second- and third-row space, offering an exceptional experience for occupants. Its interior design features elliptical elements and calming tones, creating a lounge-like atmosphere that feels serene and natural, especially when illuminated by the Panoramic Sunroof.

The flat floor of the IONIQ 9 accommodates seating arrangements for six or seven occupants. The Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows can fully recline and offer a leg rest for optimal comfort, allowing up to four people to rest during vehicle charging, depending on the configuration. When combining the second and third rows, the IONIQ 9 provides 1,899 mm of headroom and 2,050 mm of legroom. The Relaxation Seats feature Hyundai Motor’s first Dynamic Body Care system, including a Dynamic Touch Massage function. This system uses pressure and vibration to stimulate blood flow and circulation, reducing fatigue on long drives.

The IONIQ 9 also introduces second-row Swiveling Seats, allowing occupants in the second and third rows to face each other when the vehicle is stationary. This flexible configuration enhances interaction and communication among passengers, adding another dimension to the vehicle’s unique space. The slidable Universal Island 2.0 console offers impressive storage and delivers a walk-through front-row seating arrangement, enhancing accessibility and convenience. The bidirectional armrests can be opened from the front and rear, allowing easy access to the console from the second row.

The Universal Island 2.0 can be moved by up to 190 mm, making it easily accessible to second-row passengers. The console provides 5.6 litres of storage in the upper tray and 12.6 litres in the lower sliding tray. With the third-row seats folded flat, the trunk can accommodate up to 1,323 litres of luggage. With all three rows in place, the IONIQ 9 offers up to 620 litres of luggage room. Additionally, the front trunk provides a maximum volume of 88 litres for RWD models and 52 litres for AWD models.

The IONIQ 9 emphasizes sustainability in its material choices, including Eco Process Leather, Recycled PET Fabric, Wool Fabric, Bio TPO/PU Skin, Bio PET/SUEDE Fabric, and Bio Paint. The vehicle also uses paint made from recycled tire waste. The IONIQ 9’s panoramic curved display, floating dashboard, slim air vents, and ambient interior lighting further enhance the vehicle’s futuristic interior atmosphere.

The IONIQ 9 boasts a sleek ‘Aerosthetic’ exterior, showcasing Hyundai Motor’s dedication to combining aerodynamic innovation with sophisticated, futuristic styling. The front-end design features Parametric Pixels integrated into the LED light units and lower fascia, creating a distinct and refined appearance.

The IONIQ 9’s silhouette is defined by a smooth, curved roofline that contributes to a streamlined aerodynamic profile, achieving a low drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd when equipped with digital side mirrors. Energy efficiency is further enhanced by optimizing airflow under the body and reducing wheel and tyre resistance. For the first time, Hyundai has applied a dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system. Additional aero-enhancing solutions include a 3D-shaped underbody cover, aerodynamic wheels, and hidden antennas.

With the longest wheelbase of any Hyundai model at 3,130 mm, the IONIQ 9 impresses with its expansive cabin and grand proportions. The pure volume of the body and fenders creates an imposing impression, while intricately designed accents add depth and dimension. The flowing rear wheel arch character line emphasizes the vehicle’s unique volume and contributes to its dynamic design. Reminiscent of a boat tail, the rear continues the theme of pixel-fused seamless integration, enhancing the IONIQ 9’s outstanding aerodynamic performance. The streamlined roofline and rising lower line create balance and give the silhouette a sleek, dynamic look.

Notably, the IONIQ 9 is the first Hyundai model to eliminate the roof antenna by dividing its functions among the windshield cover (for GPS and satellite radio), the instrument panel (for Connected Car Services), and the tailgate glass (for FM/AM and Digital Multimedia Broadcasting), contributing to its advanced and minimalist design. Exterior lighting aligns with Hyundai’s other EV models, featuring IONIQ signature Parametric Pixel lamps with small cube projection headlights and an intelligent front-lighting system (IFS) to improve vision and driving safety while preventing glare to oncoming vehicles. The rear features a full LED combination lamp, and the outside door handles include indirect lighting for enhanced visibility.

The IONIQ 9’s confident stance is supported by a range of wheel options, including standard-fit 19-inch wheels, 20-inch and 21-inch wheel options, and a top-of-the-line 21-inch Calligraphy design, allowing buyers to further customize the vehicle. The SUV is available in 16 exterior colours, including new hues such as Celadon Gray Matte, Celadon Gray Metallic, Ionosphere Green Pearl, Sunset Brown Pearl, and Cosmic Blue Pearl. Inside, interior trim colour choices include Obsidian Black and six unique two-tone options.

The IONIQ 9 is built on Hyundai Motor’s advanced E-GMP architecture, featuring an enhanced PE system, optimized gear ratio for hill climbing, and a two-stage inverter for improved efficiency. A fully encapsulated PE system helps reduce motor noise, while enhanced acoustic laminated glass, triple sealing in all areas, and a reinforced plate in the A-pillar work together to minimize road and wind noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) inside the cabin.

This platform includes a high-capacity, high-voltage battery for extended electric range and a flat floor for increased passenger comfort and cargo space. Collision safety and durability are also improved thanks to a robust body structure designed for optimal crash energy distribution. The IONIQ 9 is the first Hyundai model to feature aluminium fenders and quarter panels, contributing to a lightweight body that enhances the EV’s efficiency. The new dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system further improves air sealing and exterior appearance with flush body panels.

Additionally, the SUV introduces a new closure system with a rolling-type pin-lift door hinge for a better fit and finish, and a newly developed electric hood latch for the front trunk, enhancing both design and product quality.

The advanced PE system’s high-voltage, floor-mounted NCM lithium-ion battery offers 110.3 kWh of energy. The IONIQ 9 is expected to achieve an outstanding WLTP-estimated all-electric range of 620 km and a WLTP-targeted energy consumption of 194 Wh/km for the Long-Range RWD model with 19-inch wheels, thanks to its low drag coefficient and advanced platform and battery technologies.

The IONIQ 9 can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW charger. Its vehicle-to-load (V2L) convenience feature and 400V/800V multi-charging capability further ease the transition to EVs. The Long-Range RWD model is powered by a 160 kW rear motor, the Long-Range AWD model includes an additional 70 kW front motor, and the Performance AWD models feature 160 kW motors at both the front and rear.

The Performance model can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds, the Long-Range AWD model in 6.7 seconds, and the Long-Range RWD version in 9.4 seconds. For mid-range acceleration, the Performance model accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.4 seconds, the Long-Range AWD model in 4.8 seconds, and the Long-Range RWD version in 6.8 seconds.

Hyundai Motor has implemented significant advancements in the IONIQ 9 to address common EV concerns. These include a refined EV Route Planner, improved battery consistency, an enhanced torque control display, a comprehensive energy report feature, and other smart improvements.

The IONIQ 9 displays its charge status via green dots on the steering wheel, keeping drivers informed of remaining energy. It also features the Hyundai AI Assistant, an AI-enabled voice recognition system similar to a home virtual assistant, activated by a button. The system’s status is indicated by dotted indicators for easy use. These features combine advanced technology with practicality to enhance the EV experience.

Hyundai Motor’s new Features on Demand (FoD) service allows IONIQ 9 customers to further personalize their vehicle with digital upgrades available for purchase from the online store. FoD products offer dynamic lighting patterns when opening the door, dynamic escort light when closing the door, and content streaming options including Amazon Music and Soundcloud. The Display Theme feature allows customization of the screen with various themes.

Over-the-air (OTA) software update capability allows in-vehicle controllers to update wirelessly. The vehicle features a Digital Key function through NFC communication, a fast wireless charger with a rubberized charging pad to prevent devices from sliding when on the move, and a cooling fan to reduce device temperature when charging. Bluelink Connected Car Services delivers seamless connectivity through online voice recognition and a range of features for a more convenient and enjoyable driving experience. This includes real-time road surface assessments and driving judgments, as well as a ‘Driver Safety Index’ based on driver patterns.

The IONIQ 9 features 100W high-output USB-C ports for passengers in all rows, powered directly by the high-voltage battery for uninterrupted use. This extends Hyundai Motor’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing users to charge devices and appliances via a standard outlet using the EV’s battery. The climate system includes a rear-independent function optimized for leisure activities like car camping, providing air-conditioning for rear passengers while reducing power consumption by independently controlling the front and rear zones. It also features a slim roof air vent that works with the Panoramic Sunroof package.

Additionally, the SUV is equipped with a UV-C sterilizer, offering multi-tray sterilization for items like mobile phones, wallets, and masks, meeting customers’ needs for health and hygiene in the vehicle.

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