Cars
Volvo Launches the Electric EX30
Al-Futtaim Trading Enterprises, known for its premium and eco-friendly Volvo models, is making waves with the launch of the Volvo EX30, aiming to boost EV adoption in the UAE. This strategic move aligns with the sustainability focus of the historic COP28 event in the UAE, where the mission is to transition towards zero-emission vehicles. The EX30, Volvo’s first small premium SUV, is now open for bookings, expanding their growing all-electric lineup to four models. As a key element in Volvo Cars’ electrification strategy, the EX30 launch follows closely on the heels of the Al-Futtaim Group’s designation as the Strategic E-Mobility Partner of COP28, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and leadership in diverse economic sectors in the UAE.
Oscar Rivoli, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim’s Trading Enterprises, said: “We are proud to announce the launch of the Volvo EX30 with Al-Futtaim Group being named COP28’s Strategic E-Mobility Partner. The newest addition to Volvo’s fully electric fleet, the Volvo EX30 is a compact SUV with a purpose-driven mission and a mighty green impact, delivering everything customers want from a Volvo alongside the smallest CO2 footprint of any Volvo car to date. Like any Volvo, it’s an outstanding product which is safe and designed around people and their needs, while reinforcing Al-Futtaim’s Group commitment to sustainability and the market’s unwavering demand for the fast-growing EV segment.”
The new fully electric Volvo EX30, despite its compact size, delivers the signature Volvo safety and innovation. Designed to boast the smallest CO2 footprint among Volvo cars, it enhances safety, convenience, and enjoyment with cutting-edge technology and Scandinavian design. The EX30 encapsulates Volvo’s design ethos in a smaller package, featuring a balanced exterior with a long wheelbase, large wheels, and equal overhangs. Its distinctly electric look includes a confident face, closed shield, and a digital rendition of the iconic Thor’s Hammer headlights.
The new EX30 offers two battery options: a 51 kWh LFP pack and a 69 kWh NMC variant, providing a maximum range of 298 miles. For city driving or shorter distances, the Core grade with a single-motor LFP battery is cost-effective. The EX30 Plus grade, featuring an NMC extended-range battery, offers a range of up to 480 km. For performance enthusiasts, the Ultra Performance variant pairs the NMC battery with a second e-motor, making it Volvo’s fastest-accelerating car. Charging is rapid, with the Twin Motor variant capable of 153 kW DC charging, allowing 10-80% charge in just over 25 minutes, customizable through the car’s display and app.
The EX30, with the lowest carbon footprint in Volvo’s history, exemplifies Volvo Cars’ commitment to sustainability. With meticulous attention to emissions reduction in production, lifecycle, and material use, the EX30’s total carbon footprint of over 200,000 km driving is under 30 tonnes. Safety is paramount, featuring a special bike safety feature to prevent ‘dooring’ accidents and state-of-the-art restraint technology.
The EX30 enhances the driver’s experience with cutting-edge tech, Scandinavian interior design, and a contextual single-screen User Interface with Google integration on a 12.3” display. It introduces the new generation Park Pilot Assist for effortless parking. Collaborations with Google, Apple, Qualcomm, and HaleyTek software joint venture underline Volvo’s commitment to delivering an exceptional user experience.
The EX30 comes in four grades: Core, Plus, Ultra Performance, and Ultra Performance LE, starting at AED 149,900. Available for booking, it offers five exterior colours such as Crystal White Metallic, Onyx Black Metallic, Vapour Grey, Moss Yellow, and Cloud Blue. Interior options, inspired by Scandinavian nature, include Indigo, Pine, Breeze, and Mist.
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.