Maqina Magazine | Issue 17 by MAQINA

M id d le East Automoti v e News

F8 TRIBUTO FERRARI CELEBRATION OF POWER

 REVIEW GENESIS G90 MG RX8

 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW MICHIEL VAN RATINGEN

SECRETARY GENERAL, EURO NCAP

 DRIVING THE CLASSICS ALFA ROMEO 1900 SS

EDITORIAL

WELCOME ISSUE 17 | OCT-NOV 2019

Founder/Managing Director Tarek Hawchar Co-Founder Natali Leonova Motoring Editor Stephan Lewis Associate Editor Adam Baeur Account Manager Anna Demianets Account Manager Mahmoud Turkmani Photographer Shadi Panosian Creative Director Roman Khidko Art Editor Viktor Blashuk Graphic Designer Alexander Rybalku Etiquette & Image Consultant Dr. Marie Abou Rached IT Manager Hassan Shahwan

Contributing Editors Ahmed Hammoudeh, Nick Janes

MAQINA LP NOT FOR SALE - SUBSCRIBERS ONLY REG#3014059 LIBAN-NORD , JUMMAYZAT, BAYDOUN BLDG

Dear Reader,

Nothing pumps more adrenaline into our veins like Ferrari. In this issue, we head once again to Fiorano circuit in Maranello, Italy, to test drive a supercar that pays tribute to all the legendary V8 engines manufactured by Ferrari—the F8 Tributo. Elsewhere, we had the opportunity to test drive a living proof of a modern luxury sedan—the Genesis G90. This car wowed us with a balanced mixture of luxury and comfort, and now we know what the Koreans are capable of. Undoubtedly, the most exciting news yet is the launch of the Corvette C8, but Ferrari also had more surprises in store for us, with the unveiling of the 812GTS and the F8 Spider, simultaneously. Better yet, we had an exclusive interview with Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary-General of Euro NCAP. He revealed more secrets about his renowned organization and the challenges that are looming large for the industry. Last but not least, MG Motors has launched their brand-new, seven-seat SUV—the MG RX8—and we got our hands on it.

Enjoy the issue,

w w w.maqinaonline.com TAREK HAWCHAR FOUNDER/MANAGING DIRECTOR

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FERRARI F8 TRIBUTO

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CORVETTE C8

BENTLEY EXP 100 GT

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ALFA ROMEO 1900SS

MERCEDES A-CLASS

LAMBORGHINI SIAN

NEW NISSAN MAXIMA 2019.

TECH-POWERED PERFORMANCE.

Main Showroom - Salwa Road Al Sadd Showroom Bin Omran Showroom Al Khor Showroom

P76 GENESIS G90

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ISSUE 110

MG RX8

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

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INTERVIEW

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PORSCHE PANAMERA

FIAT DUCATO

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC sets new standard, on the road and in terrain

he new Mercedes-Benz GLC is an elegeant sporty all-wheel drive SUV and is considered as the best in its category. The vehicle is availble now at Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles showroom. The aithorised general distributor of Mercedes-benz in Qatar. Freedom in its most beautiful formâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; that is what the GLC has stood for since its launch in autumn 2015. Like its predecessors, the SUV combines outstanding on and offroad driving characteristics with spaciousness, practicality and comfort. In addition, the latest generation adds further advanced pioneering technologies, distinctive design, and state-of-the-art infotainment. Thus, the GLC once more demonstrates how elegantly and effortlessly hallmark brand safety and intelligent adaptability can be combined to great success. The result is an SUV that sets new standards, on the road as well as in terrain.

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Mercedes-Benz V-Class.. the luxury vehicle

he new V-Class combines room for up to eight people and exemplary functionality with the high-class appeal, comfort, efficient driving pleasure and safety that distinguish automobiles bearing the three-pointed star. This makes the Mercedes among MPVs the perfect vehicle for everyone who appreciates great spaciousness but does not want to sacrifice style and comfort.

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The new V-Class provides optimum flexibility when it comes to use of the interior and always cuts an elegant figure at the same time. The V-Class is a versatile, multitalented vehicle which offers value, efficiency and safety at the highest level.

The fourth generation of the RS icon

the new Audi RS 6 Avant 25 years of RS, 25 years of high-performance station wagons from Audi: With the new Audi RS 6 Audi Sport is ushering in a new chapter in the history of the high-performance Avant. Even more power combined with increased efficiency thanks to mild hybrid system turn the RS 6 Avant into the perfect companion for any purpose.

The New Abarth 695 70° Anniversario is the undisputed star of the 2019 Abarth Days The new Abarth 695 70° Anniversario special edition was presented in Milan to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Abarth & C. brand and to pay homage to the ingenuity of its founder Carlo Abarth (1908 - 1979), who was the first to understand the potential of tuning and technical upgrading on standard production cars. Produced in just 1949 units, which was the year the company was founded, the new limited edition is the most important of the sequence of tributes presented during this year’s celebrations. It is now the turn of the exclusive 695 70° Anniversario to fire up the dreams of thousands of fans of the Italian brand. The new limited edition is dedicated to the fans of the Scorpion and was presented at the 2019 Abarth Days, the largest European gathering of Abarth enthusiasts. The new Abarth 695 70° Anniversario is equipped with the new “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile”, which is the result of the work of Abarth engineers in the FCA wind tunnel in Orbassano (Turin), designed to improve the aerodynamics of the car. It increases grip on fast mixed courses and stability at high speeds. In one word, it increases performance. The new “Spoiler ad Assetto Variabile” is, therefore, a tribute to the founder’s performance concept, which went far beyond the quest for pure power, top speed and acceleration. Carlo Abarth strived for comprehensive performance and focused on the search and development of innovative technical solutions. It is precisely this continuous research that made him famous as one of the pioneers and visionaries in the field of tuning.

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CHEVROLET INTRODUCES FIRST-EVER MID-ENGINE CORVETTE

hevrolet fulfills the long-term promise of the iconic Corvette with the introduction of the 2020 Stingray, the brand’s first-ever production mid-engine Corvette. The sum of everything that came before it, the 2020 Stingray is re-imagined to bring customers new levels of performance, technology, craftsmanship and luxury. From front- to mid-engine, in under three seconds “Corvette has always represented the pinnacle of innovation and boundarypushing at GM. The traditional front-engine vehicle reached its limits of performance, necessitating the new layout,” said GM President Mark Reuss. “In terms of comfort and fun, it still looks and feels like a Corvette, but drives better than any vehicle in Corvette history. Customers are going to be thrilled with our focus on details and performance across the board.”

2020 STINGRAY IS THE FASTEST, MOST POWERFUL ENTRY CORVETTE

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The new mid-engine layout gives the 2020 Stingray • Better weight distribution, with the rear weight bias enhancing performance in a straight line and on the track. • Better responsiveness and sense of control due to driver positioning closer to the front axle, almost on top of the front wheels.

• The fastest 0-60 time of any entry Corvette ever — under three seconds when equipped with Z51 Performance Package. • A race car-like view of the road due to lower positioning of the hood, instrument panel and steering wheel. Excellent forward sightlines throughout the vehicle for both driver and passenger. • An enhancement of Corvette’s traditional utility strengths, with dual trunks for a total of 12.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, ideal for luggage or two sets of golf clubs Design inspired by racing & aeronautics The 2020 Stingray’s exterior has a bold, futuristic expression with mid-engine exotic proportions, but it is still unmistakably Corvette. It’s lean and muscular, with an athletic sculptural shape conveying a sense of motion and power from every angle. “As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette Stingray from the ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years,” said Michael Simcoe, vice president of Global Design, General Motors. “It is now the best of America, a new arrival in the mid-engine sports car class. We know Corvette can stand tall with the best the world has to offer.”

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A supercar level of craftsmanship, premium materials and attention to detail were critical in designing every component of the Stingray. The new location of the engine is truly the focal point for the car’s design. It’s the heart of this next generation Corvette and it sits like a jewel in a showcase, visible through the large rear hatch window. The added attention to detail optimized the appearance of every wire, tube, bolt and fastener, similar to those found in modern track and allroad motorcycle design. Some additional design touchpoints include • Low profile headlamps designed around all-new projectors. • Completely hidden door, hood and hatch releases do not disrupt the sculpted design. • Large side air intakes for engine cooling and aerodynamic performance. • A-pillar shape that communicates speed and assists in visibility. • Large rear hatch that showcases the engine with seven air vents. • Quad exhaust tips located on the vehicle’s outboard ends. • Dual-element LED taillamps with animated turn signals.

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True to its aeronautical and racing roots, the 2020 Stingray’s canopy-forward stance was inspired by F22s, F35s and other modern fighter jets and Formula One racing. Other classic Corvette signatures adapted to the Stingray include a distinctive face that communicates the purpose of the vehicle’s mission, a classic horizontal crease, aggressive front fenders and familiar positioning of the dual-element headlamps. The interior is further enhanced by • A cockpit that has not only migrated forward by 16.5 inches, but envelops the driver, conveying the high performance and aeronautic theme • Vertical climate controls and ultrathin vents minimize the height of the instrument panel, creating a low, spacious interior. • A new, squared-off, two-spoke, small diameter steering wheel that enables an unobscured view of the 12-inch reconfigurable cluster display The 2020 Stingray boasts premium interior materials executed at a high level of quality and craftsmanship: • Hand-wrapped, cut-and-sew leather components with thick press stitching.

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• Generous use of real metal. • Stainless steel speaker grilles with Bose Performance Series audio system. • Carbon fiber trim on the GT2 and Competition Sport Seats. • The choice of either real aluminum or real carbon fiber for console and door trim plates. Customers can create their own design statement, with the most personalization options ever for Corvette • 12 exterior colors — Torch Red, Arctic White, Black, Blade Silver Metallic, Shadow Gray, Ceramic Matrix Gray, Long Beach Red, Elkhart Lake Blue and Sebring Orange — plus three all-new colors: Rapid Blue, Zeus Bronze and Accelerate Yellow. • Six interior color themes: Jet Black, Sky Cool Gray, Adrenaline Red, Natural/ Natural Dipped, Two-Tone Blue and Morello Red. • Six seat belt colors: Black, Blue, Natural, Torch Red, Yellow and Orange. • Two optional stitch packages: Yellow and Red. Standard black interiors have Sky Cool Gray stitching.

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Three seat options • GT1 – a sporty style that emphasizes comfort while providing good support for performance driving situations. Features Mulan leather trim, optional twoway lumbar support and wing adjustment. • GT2 – a first for Corvette, these seats have a racing-inspired look with comfort for long trips courtesy of dual density foam. They include carbon fiber trim, a Napa leather insert, Mulan leather bolsters, a jet black-painted seat back, two-way lumbar support and wing adjustment, plus heating and ventilation. • Competition Sport – designed for the serious track-focused driver, these seats include aggressive bolsters, full Napa seating surfaces and carbon fiber trim on the headrest, heating and ventilation, along with an all-new durable performance textile inspired by Kevlar vests. Engineered to be a true supercar for every day Corvette’s structure is built around its backbone: the center tunnel. This enables a light, stiff structure to serve as the foundation for the suspension system to perform in an optimized manner.

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By removing unwanted body compliance, Corvette customers will experience the ultimate in ride performance with outstanding lateral grip capabilities. The car has a solid, connected-to-theroad feel with minimal vibrations at high speeds or on long road trips. “Our mission was to develop a new type of sports car, combining the successful attributes of Corvette with the performance and driving experience of mid-engine supercars,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette executive chief engineer. The tunnel-dominant approach offers many advantages, including: • Improved torsional rigidity with a solid, connected feel on both the road and track. • Outstanding ingress/egress for a midengine vehicle. Unlike some competitors, there’s no need for oversized rocker panels to bear structural and load weights, making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. • Excellent stability due to a low center of gravity and outstanding handling. • Preservation of Corvette’s beloved standard removable roof panel, which can easily be stored in the rear trunk.

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• A front storage compartment that can fit an airline-spec carry-on and a laptop bag. • Availability in both left- and right-handdrive variants — a first for Corvette. • Smart packaging with improved cabin comfort, including an additional inch of rearward seat travel and almost double the reclining angle. The all-new Corvette Stingray is built with a smart mixed-materials strategy, enabling key features such as: • A strong, stiff and lightweight main structure of six high-pressure diecast aluminum parts, also known as the Bedford Six, which are manufactured at GM Powertrain in Bedford, Indiana. These minimize the number of joints within the vehicle, making a stiffer structure that aids in handling and track cornering. • Industry-first carbon fiber curved rear bumper beam for weight reduction. • Front and rear trunk tubs and dashboard molded from ultra-lightweight “float” derived from fiberglass and a proprietary resin. The material is so light that it can actually float in water. It works with other fiberglass and carbon fiber variants to lower mass and reduce noise and vibration.

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Handling: core to Corvette’s fun-to-drive DNA The Stingray is designed for superior ride comfort on the highway and well-balanced handling on the track. “Thanks to sophisticated suspension geometry, tailored tire technology and exquisite attention to structural details, we have improved ride and handling,” said Juechter. “No Corvette has ever felt so comfortable, nimble and yet completely stable.” The new Stingray features coil over dampers that create entirely new ride and handling characteristics. The midengine architecture allows for a short, straight and stiff steering system, coupled with an updated electronic steering system, making the driver’s chassis input instantaneous. The new seating position places the car’s center of gravity close to the driver’s inside hip, so the car literally turns around the driver. It completely changes the perception of vehicle handling and responsiveness. Other ride and handling upgrades include: • Steering ratio improved from 16.25:1 to 15.7:1. • New eBoost brakes that are more precise and tunable. • The first sports car application of Michelin’s all-season performance tire that can corner at nearly 1G. • Front suspension lift that raises ground clearance by approximately 40mm at the front bumper in 2.8 seconds, protecting against bumps, potholes, steep driveways and other road disturbances. It can operate at speeds up to 24 mph and be programmed to work automatically through GPS to remember up to 1,000 locations.

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• Launch control aided by the rear weight distribution, enabling the new Stingray to get off the line quicker than any Corvette in history. • Z51 Performance Package, which introduces a host of new technology to the 2020 Stingray: • Performance suspension with manually adjustable threaded spring seats. • Larger brake rotors with Z51 logo on calipers. • Enhanced cooling. • Specific axle ratio. • Front brake cooling inlets. • Performance exhaust. • An electronic limited slip differential integrated into the transaxle that modulates torque between the rear tires, enabling incredible vehicle stability. • A front splitter and open two-piece rear spoiler that add up to a combined 400 pounds of downforce while improving grip when cornering. • Available Magnetic Ride Control 4.0, which reads the road better, providing more precise data through suspensionmounted accelerometers. Its improved electronics respond faster and more smoothly to driver inputs and contribute to class-leading ride quality. • Available Performance Traction Management. The jewel in the center The 2020 Stingray’s heart is Chevy’s next-generation 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine, the only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment. It will produce 495 horsepower (369 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque for any entry Corvette.

“Though now placed behind the driver, the LT2 gives the same visceral experience we all expect from Corvette,” said Jordan Lee, GM’s global chief engineer of Small Block engines. “The LT2 has been designed to deliver excellent low-end torque and high-end power to give thrilling pedal response at any RPM.”

• A brand-new block and vent system. The centerline of the crankshaft sits an inch lower to the ground where it mates to the transaxle for better handling. • Low-profile oil pan that reduces mass. • Oil cooler capacity increased by 25 percent. • Standard edge Red valve covers.

The powertrain’s low position enables a low center of gravity for optimal handling. Perhaps the biggest update is found in the lubrication and ventilation system. For the first time ever, the base Stingray will use an engine-mounted dry sump oil system and three scavenge pumps for improved track performance.

A shift of a different kind The next generation LT2 is paired with Chevrolet’s first eight speed dual-clutch transmission, which provides lightningfast shifts and excellent power transfer. This transmission is uniquely designed with TREMEC to provide the best of both worlds: the spirited, direct connected feeling of a manual and the premium driving comfort of an automatic. The doublepaddle de-clutch feature even allows the driver to disconnect the clutch by holding both paddles for more manual control.

During serious track driving, oil volume remains high to avoid diminished performance. The new Stingray’s lateral capability is greatly improved, so the LT2’s dry sump lubrication system had to be redesigned to provide exceptional engine performance even at lateral acceleration levels exceeding 1G in all directions. A lightweight, 3.2mm-thick glass panel on the rear hatch allows owners to show off the engine. This panel features a cantilevered trailing edge to evacuate heat from the LT2 engine compartment. Other notable engine characteristics include: • Jewel-like setting in the rear compartment, visible through the rear glass hatch. • Every part, including the exhaust system’s wires, tubes, routing fasteners, coolant hoses, exhaust manifold and even the bolts and fasteners, is built with appearance in mind. All engine components were given careful consideration just like the exterior, and even the heat shields are textured.

Paddle shifters allow drivers to choose a specific gear. “The performance shift algorithms are so driver-focused, they can sense when you’re doing spirited driving — regardless of driving mode — and will hold lower gears longer for more throttle response,” said Juechter. The new Small Block V-8 has a torque curve optimized to take advantage of the bespoke DCT’s lightning-fast shifts. Engineers set the DCT up with a very low first gear to leverage the additional traction to get the car off the line quickly, and its close-ratio gears 2 through 6 keep the engine near the power peak on track. Tall seventh and eighth gears make for easy long-distance cruising with low mechanical stress and excellent fuel economy.

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The DCT is mated to a new Electronic Transmission Range Selector. With this electric shifter there’s no mechanical interface between the shift lever and the transmission. The Corvette’s electric shifter incorporates two pull toggles for Reverse and Drive and push buttons for Park, Neutral and Low/Manual. The shifter has been designed to be more attractive and compact than a standard shifter. All-new technology improves performance and usability Driver mode choices have been expanded from four to six, allowing drivers to tweak the feel of their Corvettes to their personal preference. The familiar Weather, Tour, Sport and Track modes remain, and there are two new modes: • MyMode, a configurable setting for preferred driving style that can remain between key cycles. • Z mode, named after the famed Z06, ZR1 and Z51 Corvette performance packages, is activated through a “Z” button on the steering wheel. This is a single-use mode that takes MyMode configurations one step further, allowing drivers to adjust the engine and transmission as well. The 2020 Stingray benefits from GM’s new digital vehicle platform, an all-new electronic architecture that enables the adoption of the company’s next generation of technologies. The architecture minimizes wiring while allowing for faster signal transmission between different vehicle systems and the higher resolution screens. The platform enables continuous vehicle improvements through over-the-air updates and enhanced cybersecurity measures. Other new technology features include: • Corvette’s next-generation infotainment system is faster and simpler, with a higher resolution display. • Chevy-first one-touch Bluetooth pairing with Near Field Communication.

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• Wireless charging. • Learn-as-you-go voice recognition. • Improved real-time traffic. • A new, 12-inch customizable instrument cluster tailored to all six driver modes. New electrical features include: • Driver and passenger seat memory. • Heated steering wheel. • Tire fill alert warns the driver when tire meets maximum pressure. • Two new Bose audio systems: a 10-speaker standard premium system and available 14-speaker Bose Performance Series system. Speaker grilles are integrated into lower door trim for a refined look that also helps guard against damage from footwear. • The industry-pioneering Performance Data Recorder, an advanced driving analysis tool upgraded with high-definition resolution camera and a new, in-vehicle user interface. Customers can record both circuit and point-to-point road courses. The PDR can be set to auto-record like a dash cam that starts a recording every time the Corvette is running, or configured to only start when the car is set to Valet mode. Attainability remains a hallmark Corvette has always represented iconic American design, performance, technical ingenuity and attainability. The entry 2020 Stingray continues that tradition as a no-compromise value proposition. The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray goes into production at GM’s Bowling Green Assembly in late 2019. Additional pricing and packaging information will be shared at a later stage.

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HANDLING: CORE TO

CORVETTE’S FUN-TO-DRIVE DNA

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JAGUAR XE SV PROJECT 8

BRAND-NEW OFFICIAL RECORD ALSO SET FOR THE WHOLE 20.832KM NORDSCHLEIFE LAP: 7MIN 23.164SEC

THE WORLD’S FASTEST SALOON CAR BEATS ITS OWN NÜRBURGRING NORDSCHLEIFE RECORD

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he Jaguar Special Vehicle Operationsdeveloped XE SV Project 8 has demonstrated its breadth of performance capability by setting the fastest Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time for a four-door production car again: 7min 18.361sec. This new officially-verified time on the 20.6km (12.8-mile) lap is 2.9 seconds faster than Project 8’s previous benchmark set in November 2017 and 7 seconds faster than any other four-door production car has achieved. Project 8 is also the first vehicle to set an official whole lap record in the Nürburgring’s mid-range production car class, lapping the 20.8km (12.94-mile) circuit length in 7min 23.164sec. Returning to the legendary German circuit in a production-specification two-seat Track Pack version of Project 8 was development driver Vincent Radermecker. The car’s height-adjustable twin-spring coil-over suspension was set in ‘track’ ride height, with adjustable front splitter and carbonfibre rear aerodynamic wing positioned for maximum downforce and stability. To maximise performance and steering precision, for the final record runs Project 8 was fitted with new off-the-shelf ultra-highperformance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres. Tested and chosen by SV engineers for their capability on the track, the road-legal tyres use rubber compounds directly transferred from Michelin’s competition tyres.

Jamal Hameedi, Engineering Director, Jaguar Special Vehicle Operations, said: “The original Nürburgring time set by Jaguar XE SV Project 8 demonstrated the extreme performance envelope of the world’s fastest production sedan, but the SV team is driven by a motorsport mentality and we knew Project 8 could go even faster. This new official record time is a fitting reward for everyone who has played a part in pushing the boundaries for our customers with Project 8.” Powered by the most highly tuned 600PS version of Jaguar’s 5.0-litre Supercharged V8, the all-wheel-drive Project 8 is capable of 0-60mph in 3.3 seconds (0-100km/h in 3.7 seconds) and a top speed of 200mph (320km/h). Project 8 also features a fullyenclosed flat underbody for enhanced aerodynamics, which is key to its performance. Production of the limited-edition Project 8 will finish this year. There are three distinct fourdoor specifications available: • Lightweight two-seat Track Pack – as used for the record lap times • Four-seat configuration with same aero package and performance as Track Pack • Touring specification with discreet fixed rear spoiler – the ultimate Q-car, limited to 15 examples worldwide and 186mph.

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MERCEDES-BENZ A CLASS SPORTY DESIGN AND DISTINCTIVE FEATURES AVAILABLE AT MERCEDES-BENZ SHOWROOM ON SALWA ROAD

hanks to its sporty design and distinctive features, the A class appeals to all ages, and has fast become the preferred choice for youths all over the world.

With the new generation of the A-Class, Mercedes-Benz reconciles the conflicting aims of sporty performance and enhanced comfort: With DYNAMIC SELECT the driver is able to change the car’s characteristics in just seconds – at the touch of a button the A-Class drives in a particularly comfortable, sporty or efficient manner. Mercedes-Benz has also increased the range of available engines. The chassis: comfort at the touch of a button With DYNAMIC SELECT the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted in seconds at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission, suspension, steering and air conditioning at the driver’s behest. The four driving modes “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Eco” and “Individual” can be conveniently selected using the switch in the upper control panel. DYNAMIC SELECT allows a particularly broad range of setting options in combination with the new suspension with adaptive damping (optional extra). In this case the driver is able to modify the vehicle’s damping characteristics using the DYNAMIC SELECT Switch.

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There is a choice between Comfort mode with comfortable damping characteristics and Sport mode for a sporty and more taut damper set-up. Acceleration sensors are used to measure the vehicle’s body movements, and other current information about the vehicle status such as the steering angle, steering speed and yaw rate is included when calculating the damping characteristics. The design: dynamically curved surfaces and a fresh ambience Striking lines, dynamically curved surfaces and coupé-like window lines characterise the exterior of the A-Class, following the design philosophy of sensual purity. With a diamond grille, new LED high-performance headlamps (optional extra) and newly designed tail lamps with dual tailpipe trim integrated flush into the bumper, the new generation emphasises the sportiness and dynamics of the successful compact class model series. An instrument cluster of tubular design with classy dial graphics and anodised switches upgrades the high-quality interior, as does the large, free-standing and frameless display of the infotainment system, which is now optionally available with a larger 20.3-cm (8-inch) screen.

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New colours and materials, as well as new finishes for the trim in the dashboard, ensure a fresh ambience. Optional LED High Performance headlamps and ambience lighting which can be individualised with twelve colours and five dimming levels – the equipment range for the A-Class has been judiciously expanded in many areas. Also new is seat cushion depth adjustment by up to 60 mm – a standard feature in all equipment lines.

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Multimedia: Trailblazer in smartphone integration The new-generation A-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz model to be available with comprehensive smartphone integration: Apple® CarPlay® (for iPhone® owners) and MirrorLink® are available now. At the same time, the new infotainment generation makes its way into the A-Class.

Operation is now even more intuitive, with the functions delivering a special experience thanks to animated menus and visual depictions on the even larger display of the multimedia system. On request the screen diagonal now measures 20.3 cm (8 inches), making it at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) larger than before. Intelligent Drive: improved support, optional LED headlamps With numerous driving assistance systems from the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST to DISTRONIC PLUS distance control, the A-Class is able to give its driver comprehensive support and protection. The assistance systems, which fuse data from various sensor technologies as part of the ‘Intelligent Drive’ concept and thereby significantly enhance safety and comfort, were further advanced in part. For example, the standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS extends the functions of the previous COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (radar supported proximity warning and braking assistance by Adaptive Brake Assist) with autonomous partial braking to reduce the risk of rearend collisions.

THE NEW-GENERATION A-CLASS IS THE FIRST MERCEDES-BENZ MODEL TO BE AVAILABLE WITH COMPREHENSIVE SMARTPHONE INTEGRATION

The drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST (standard) has been similarly upgraded: operating within an extended speed range (60 - 200 km/h), it now uses a five-stage bar display to visualise the driver’s current attention level. Apart from their distinctive look, the LED high-performance headlamps (optional extra) offer added safety at night thanks to their broad light distribution and a colour temperature approximating daylight.

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LAND ROVER BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO OLDER DEFENDERS

and Rover Classic is introducing a range of upgrades for older Defender models which deliver enhanced performance and on-road agility inspired by the exclusive limited-edition Defender Works V8 – 70th Edition. The new Upgrade Kits, the first of their kind from Land Rover Classic, allow Defender owners to enhance 90 and 110 derivatives built between 1994 and 2016. Calum McKechnie, Head of Land Rover Classic, said: “In 2018, Land Rover’s 70th Anniversary year, we saw unprecedented demand for the limited-edition Defender Works V8, which brought new levels of handling and performance to this iconic vehicle. Extending the range of fully engineered, tested and approved upgrades offered by Land Rover Classic underlines our commitment to supporting existing Defender owners, as we look forward to the new Defender’s world premiere later this year.” Upgrades start with diamond-turned 18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels which can be fitted to Defenders built from 1994 model year* onwards. The Defender Suspension Upgrade Kit is suitable from 2007 model year vehicles, comprising uniquelytuned suspension tailored for on-road comfort and dynamics with revised coil spring rates, dampers, antiroll bars, links and bushes. The Defender Handling Upgrade Kit adds uprated Works V8 specification brake discs, pads and calipers to the 18-inch Sawtooth alloy wheels and enhanced suspension. The final and most comprehensive upgrade option is only available on 2.2-litre TDCi models produced from 2012 model year onwards and is only available direct from Land Rover Classic.

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The Defender Classic Works Upgrade Kit includes all of the wheel, brake and suspension elements in addition to new performance-rated tyres and an engine upgrade which delivers an extra 40PS – total output of 162PS and 463Nm torque. Top speed is increased to 106mph. The Classic Works Upgrade Kit also includes bespoke badging on the front wings, an owner’s certificate, vehicle collection, health check and handover with a tour of Land Rover’s Classic Works, UK, or Essen, Germany, facility – where the upgrade is carried-out. All components have been fully assessed to the same standards as Works V8 in dynamic testing, with engineers meeting the same fast road and braking targets for Upgrade Kit components as last year’s limited-run model. CO2 emissions meet the same EU5 N1 Commercial standards as a standard 2.2 TDCi, with emissions control systems retained. Customers can order the Sawtooth alloy wheels, Suspension and Handling Upgrade Kits and have them fitted by their local Land Rover Retailer as well as Land Rover Classic’s facilities in Coventry and Essen. The Sawtooth wheel kit with tyres, and the ultimate Defender Classic Works Upgrade Kit, can only be purchased and fitted at Land Rover Classic’s own facilities.

WHEEL, SUSPENSION, BRAKING AND ENGINE UPGRADES INSPIRED BY DEFENDER WORKS V8

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NEW PORSCHE CAYENNE S COUPÉ WITH 440 HP NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER Porsche is launching another powerful addition to its SUV Coupé range: the Cayenne S Coupé. The model is available for order from today, with first units expected to reach the market in October. The 2.9-litre V6 engine featuring twin-turbocharging and developing 440 hp (324 kW) is at the heart of the new four-door sports car. The maximum torque of 550 Nm guarantees powerful acceleration, resulting in a time of 5.0 seconds from standing start to 100 km/h in combination with the standard Sport Chrono Package. This figure drops to 4.9 seconds with the three optional lightweight sports packages. The top speed is 263 km/h. In addition to the Sport Chrono Package, the standard equipment includes speed-sensitive Power Steering Plus, 20-inch alloy wheels, Park Assist at the front and rear including reversing camera and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). Porsche is extending the model range with the new Cayenne S Coupé. The previously announced models, the Cayenne Coupé with 340 hp (250 kW) and the Cayenne Turbo Coupé with 550 hp (404 kW), were shown at this year’s world premiere in March. The highlights of the brand’s SUV coupé include sharper proportions with a unique rear section, an adaptive rear spoiler, two different roof concepts and a rear bench with the characteristics of two individual seats. The vehicle features a 2.16 m2 panoramic glass roof as standard or can be customized through an optionally available contoured carbon roof with typical sports car look. Innovative six-cylinder engine with central turbo layout The 2.9-litre twin-turbo engine of the Cayenne S Coupé delivers its maximum torque of 550 Nm across a wide engine speed range between 1,800 and 5,500 rpm. Both exhaust turbochargers have been arranged in a central turbo layout inside the cylinder V. This results in an engine with compact dimensions, allowing it to be installed in a lower position for a better centre of gravity and enhanced lateral dynamics. The shortened exhaust paths between the combustion chambers and the turbochargers produce a particularly spontaneous engine response and a faster build-up in power. The exhaust manifold has been integrated into the cylinder head, which reduces weight and means that the manifold is surrounded by coolant. This ensures highly efficient combustion, particularly under full load.

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More dynamic proportions and specific design elements A roof line that drops significantly towards the rear also lends the Cayenne S Coupé a particularly dynamic appearance. This effect is supported by a fixed roof spoiler, accentuating the distinctive Coupé silhouette. The front windscreen and A-pillar are lower than in the Cayenne, courtesy of a roof edge that has been lowered by around 20 millimetres. Newly designed rear doors and wings broaden the shoulders of the vehicle by 18 millimetres, contributing to its overall muscular impression. In each Cayenne Coupé model, a fixed roof spoiler is combined with the new adaptive rear spoiler as part of Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA). The spoiler is harmoniously integrated into the vehicle silhouette and extends by 135 millimetres at speeds of 90 km/h and above, increasing the downforce on the rear axle and thus enhancing driving stability.

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Porsche introduces new 911 Carrera CoupĂŠ and 911 Carrera Cabriolet Porsche is expanding its eighthgeneration range with the addition of the 911 Carrera*. The new sports car is being launched as a CoupĂŠ and Cabriolet, and generates 385 hp (283 kW) from its 3.0-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine with biturbo charging. The Carrera is the entry-level 911 model and offers 15 hp (11 kW) more power output than its predecessor. It shares a similar range of standard features to the 911 Carrera S. These include a 10.9-inch touchscreen display, comprehensive connectivity and innovative assistance systems, such as the Porsche Wet Mode that ensures even safer handling. The 911 Carrera is distinguished by smaller sized wheels, brakes and tailpipe covers on the exhaust system. As with the Carrera S model, the engine, chassis and brakes are designed for exclusive sportiness.

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As with the Carrera S model, the engine, chassis and brakes are designed for exclusive sportiness. The 3.0-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine of the 911 Carrera generates power largely through the smaller wheel diameters of the turbines and compressors that feature in the new turbochargers. Power transmission is handled by the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK). This enables the 911 Carrera CoupĂŠ to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, with a top speed of 293 km/h. The optional Sport Chrono Package shaves a further 0.2 seconds off the sprint time. The combined fuel consumption (NEDCcorrelated) of the CoupĂŠ is 9.0 l/100 km, while the Cabriolet records this figure as 9.2 l/100 km. The driving dynamics set-up includes 235/40 ZR tyres on 19-inch alloy wheels on the front axle. The mixed tyre configuration features 20-inch wheels with 295/35 ZR tyres at the rear. Stopping power is provided on both axles by 330-millimetre brake discs with black, four-piston monobloc fixed callipers.

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BENTLEY REIMAGINES THE FUTURE OF GRAND TOURING WITH THE EXTRAORDINARY

BENTLEY EXP 100 GT

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A physical embodiment of the future Bentley brand, it sets the benchmark for sustainable luxury mobility that is autonomous and electric

entley Motors celebrated its 100th birthday yesterday by unveiling its vision of the future of luxury mobility at The Home of Bentley in Crewe. The Bentley EXP 100 GT is a physical embodiment of the future Bentley brand, reimagining Grand Touring for the future. Beyond mere mobility, the Bentley EXP 100 GT concept car will enhance the owner’s Grand Touring experience, whether driving or being driven autonomously. Bentley EXP 100 GT is borne from pure Bentley DNA and inspired by the company’s deep understanding of the desires of its intelligent, forwardthinking customers. Beautifully styled, it embraces Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a means to reassert the car as a place for creating, experiencing and capturing extraordinary human experiences and emotions. Designed from the inside out and taking advantage of an all-electric platform, Bentley EXP 100 GT reimagines the Grand Tourer for the world of 2035. This is a world of shared luxury experiences where passenger and driver enjoy equal status in their enjoyment of their extraordinary journeys.

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The cars’ presence and impressive exterior proportions are reminiscent of many of Bentley’s historic Grand Tourers but take these luxury hallmarks into the future. The result is a future vision commensurate with Bentley’s status as the world’s most sought after luxury brand. The meticulously sculpted cabin is luxuriously tactile, helping to create a harmonious environment designed around the well-being of its passengers. This is seamlessly integrated with the unique AI, known as the Bentley Personal Assistant, which helps the car’s occupants enhance and curate their Grand Tour experiences. Sustainable innovation is also at the heart of the Bentley EXP 100 GT experience. The car is engineered to create a greater awareness of the world outside, with an intelligently-curated collection of materials including 5,000 year old Copper Infused Riverwood; Compass exterior paint made from recycled rice husks; 100% organic leather-like textile from wine making; British Farmed Wool carpets and embroidered cotton interior surfaces which all create sustainable future luxury, adding to the enhanced reality of the grand touring car of the future.

Fully-autonomous car that can be driven when one wishes to enjoy the thrill of driving

Adrian Hallmark, Bentley Chairman and CEO, said: “Today, on our Centenary, we demonstrate our vision of the future of our Marque, with the Bentley EXP 100 GT - a modern and definitive Grand Tourer designed to demonstrate that the future of luxury mobility is as inspirational and aspirational as the last 100 years.

Stefan Sielaff, Director of Design said: “The Bentley EXP 100 GT represents the kind of cars we want to make in the future. Like those iconic Bentleys of the past, this car connects with its passengers’ emotions and helps them experience and safeguard the memories of the really extraordinary journeys they take.”

Bentley has, and will continue to enhance and enrich every single journey and the lives of every single person who travels in, or has the honour to be a part of creating our extraordinary products.”

An inspiring blend of performance, technology and craftmanship, the Bentley EXP 100 GT is a beautiful, immersive and emotionally intelligent experience.

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THE NORDIC HALL OF THE HEROS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

ASTON MARTIN

VALKYRIE & VALHALLA

TAKE FLIGHT

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Aston Martin Valkyrie and Valhalla take flight at Aston Martin’s development home – Silverstone, UK

he Nordic hall of the heroes is officially open for business as Aston Martin’s latest mid-engined sportscar – Valhalla – has taken flight for the first time alongside the world’s most highly-anticipated hypercar, Aston Martin Valkyrie. Celebrating Aston Martin Valhalla’s North American debut at the world-famous Monterey Car Week’s ‘Quail’ display, today’s video showcases both ground-breaking models - born from Aston Martin’s collaboration with Red Bull Advanced Technologies - being put through their paces at the luxury British marque’s official development facility at Silverstone by High Performance Test Driver, Chris Goodwin. While Aston Martin Valkyrie delivered its stunning debut as part of this year’s British Grand Prix earlier this year, its closely related Valhalla sibling has until now been solely shown in static guise after wowing the crowds upon its unveiling at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Today’s ‘dynamic concept’ car signals the next step on the journey towards delivering the first of these exceptional hypercars.

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Though making greater concessions to practicality and road use, Valhalla remains true to the uncompromising engineering ethos laid down by its bigger brother. Benefitting from genuine state-of-the-art F1TM technology and unrivalled active aerodynamics utilising variable morphing surfaces, Valhalla is set to deliver equally impressive levels of handling performance. Powered by a bespoke Aston Martin V6 twin-turbo engine, Aston Martin Valhalla will surpass figures shown in today’s hypercar world, underlining its own elite status. Strictly limited to 500 coupes worldwide, the programme remains oversubscribed as Aston Martin continues to handpick the final lucky customers who will have the opportunity to own this extraordinary machine. In contrast, the sold-out Aston Martin Valkyrie’s testing programme continues apace with the first customer delivery scheduled for later this year, when the model will claim its unrivalled position at the top of the automotive arena.

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GHOST ZENITH COLLECTION THE PINNACLE OF A TIMELESS MASTERPIECE ZENITH: THE HIGHEST OR MOST SUCCESSFUL POINT OF ANYTHING

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ery rarely, there is a chance for collectors of luxury to obtain an item that is truly at its apex. In the context of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, these rare moments present themselves approximately once every ten years. Rolls-Royce observes the ultimate craftsmanship and perfection, and when better to do so than when celebrating the success and global adoration that has been lavished on one of the world’s most luxurious motor cars during its life cycle. It is in this vein that, as Ghost approaches the end of its remarkable ten year tenure, the marque offers to collectors an extremely limited Zenith Collector’s Edition of Rolls-Royce Ghost. The Collection of just 50 Zeniths will celebrate the timeless elegance of a nameplate that has become the cornerstone of contemporary Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. In true keeping with its name, the Ghost Zenith Collection will feature the highest levels of Bespoke ever seen on a Ghost Collection car. The only previous occasion on which discerning collectors around the world have been afforded this privilege was when an equally limited number of Phantom VII Zeniths were created in 2016 to celebrate the end of its extraordinarily long and successful reign. These motor cars immediately became highly collectable and sought after, re-setting the bar of luxury and, in doing so, creating a modern legend. Ghost is a luxury icon that carries with it a rich and extraordinary past. From the Silver Ghost, the motor car that established the moniker of ‘The Best Car in the World’ over 100 years ago, to 200EX, the experimental car that introduced the concept of a contemporary expression of this nameplate at the Geneva Motor Show in 2009, Ghost has offered patrons of the marque a modern, lithe and driver-focused Rolls-Royce. When production of Ghost began in 2009, patrons across the world were drawn to its elegant lines and dynamic offering and it quickly became, and remains to this day, the most successful Rolls-Royce motor car ever to be built, attracting a new group of young entrepreneurs to the marque. Indeed, the reduction in average age of a Rolls-Royce customer to around 43 is in part testament to Ghost’s global success. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “The Ghost Zenith Collection presents an entirely forwardlooking study of the unique characteristics that have seen Ghost ascend to the status of the most progressive super-luxury saloon ever conceived. This unique Collection provides patrons of the marque with a rare opportunity to own a motor car truly evocative of our time. Ghost is the most successful Rolls-Royce ever created and the Zenith Collection marks an important milestone in our modern history.”

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When shown at Geneva in 2009, 200EX introduced a concept that was both driver and passenger focused. The Ghost Zenith Collection draws many references from 200EX, with perhaps the most significant being the inclusion of a commemorative ingot, made from the original 200EX Spirit of Ecstasy, melted down and set in to the centre console of each of the 50 Zeniths. Engraved with the three key design lines of Ghost, the plaque details its significant origins. The Collection’s own Spirit of Ecstasy and clock are engraved with the name of this highly anticipated collection. Furthermore, 200EX is immortalized in a complex engraving on the centre console of Ghost Zenith. A blueprint inspired artwork enlarged to a point of abstraction has been divided into 50 distinct parts, allowing each Ghost Zenith customer their own personal and individual work of art, while at the same time uniting the collection as a group homage to Ghost. One’s eye is naturally drawn to the interior of the Collection’s doors, owing to the illuminated door pockets. Ambient light emits through perforated leather enhancing the architectural elegance of Ghost’s interior. One will also encounter a complex piece of marquetry, created by the master craftsmen and women in the marque’s legendary woodshop. Available in either wood, Technical fibre or piano finished veneer, the door marquetry transitions from the driver’s suite to passenger suite, emphasizing the dual nature to Ghost. Members of the Bespoke Collective from the Home of Rolls-Royce’s Leathershop too have been perfecting their art. The rear seats feature embroidery that takes its inspiration from the seat details of the original 1907 Silver Ghost. 52 NEWS

This embroidery elegantly transitions from the rear to the front of the cabin, and in the case of the Extended Wheelbase Zenith, the headliner thrusts purposefully forward into the poised silhouette of the Spirit of Ecstasy. The seats themselves are accentuated in a contrasting leather, accenting Ghost as the ultimate four seat limousine. Occupants of the Ghost Zenith Standard Wheelbase will experience an extraordinary phenomenon. The famed starlight headliner is presented in a unique Shooting Star configuration. Shooting stars fire at random across the cabin roof, adding an extraordinary sense of theatre. This surprise and delight feature consists of over 1,340 individually mapped and handwoven fibre optic lights.

Reminiscent of its Phantom counterpart, The Ghost Zenith Collection’s exterior styling takes on a new interpretation of its own ¬¬– a special twotone application with a gloss-contrast paint finish. Patrons may select three different colour-ways, Iguazu Blue with Andalusian White, Premiere Silver with Arctic White or a daring Bohemian Red with Black Diamond, with multiple variants available highlighting the flexibility of the model. The Silver Satin bonnet was first seen on 200EX. These extraordinary motor cars, which represent the final opportunity to acquire this landmark, transformative luxury product, are currently being hand-crafted at The Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, an establishment recognised as the world’s premiere Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence. The order books for this seminal Collection will close imminently.

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La m b o rgh ini Limited edition hybrid super sports car previews the future The fastest Lamborghini of all time is realized in a new futuristic design; drawing on the brand’s style DNA, but clearly a design for a new era. Taking the most iconic V12 Lamborghini power plant of today, the Sián is engineered around unique hybrid technologies, delivering the extraordinary emotion and exceptional dynamic performance of a naturally aspirated Lamborghini super sports car, while meeting a future demanding electrification. “The Sián is a masterpiece in possibilities,” says Stefano Domenicali, Automobili Lamborghini Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Not only does the Sián deliver a formidable hyper-car design and engineering tour de force today, it augments the potential for Lamborghini as a super sports car brand for tomorrow and for decades to come, even as hybridization becomes more desirable and inevitably essential. The Lamborghini Sián represents the first step in Lamborghini’s route to electrification, and expedites our next-generation V12 engine. Its Sián moniker, meaning ‘flash or lightning’ in Bolognese dialect, denotes the first electrification of a Lamborghini production car and confirms our strong connection to the territory in which we operate. With the Sián, Automobili Lamborghini demonstrates its dynastic strength as a legendary super sports car brand for the future.”

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The Sián technology: hybrid power delivering the best performance “Lamborghini’s strategic heritage in one-off and very limited series cars is not only a commitment to exclusivity but a presentation of future designs and technologies. With this car, we set ourselves the challenge of creating the best hybrid solution for a Lamborghini super sports car to provide us with the first step on our electrification strategy,” says Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer. “Lamborghini is inherently a rule breaker, a challenger, always pushing what is possible to find a better solution. With the Sián we are defining our route to innovation and we are setting new rules in new technologies, instead of just following existing solutions. The result is the Lamborghini Sián, which includes the world-first application of a supercapacitor for hybridization and new materials technology.” The Sián adopts the V12 as the pinnacle of today’s Lamborghini engines and develops a new super sports car powertrain: a unique new hybrid system focuses on providing the highest powerpossible via the lightest solution. A 48 volt e-motor, delivering 34 hp, has been incorporated into the gearbox to provide immediate response and improved performance: the first time in any low-voltage hybrid that a direct connection has been made between electric motor and wheels. The e-motor also supports low-speed maneuvers such as reversing and parking with electric power.

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2.8seconds top speed: 350 km/h

The energy accumulation technology is a world first. Rather than a lithium-ion battery the Sián innovates supercapacitor application: a technology pioneered originally in the Lamborghini Aventador but dramatically developed to store ten times the power. It is three times more powerful than a battery of the same weight and three times lighter than a battery producing the same power. Located in the bulkhead between cockpit and engine it ensures perfect weight distribution. The electric system with the supercapacitor and e-motor weighs only 34 kg, thus it delivers a remarkable weight-to-power ratio of 1.0 kg/hp. Symmetric power flow ensures the same efficiency in both charging and discharging cycles: the most lightweight and efficient hybrid solution. This advanced technology combines with the V12 engine, which incorporates titanium intake valves and is uprated to 785 hp (577 kW) at 8,500 rpm: the highest output ever from a Lamborghini power plant. Combined with the additional 34 hp from the hybrid system, the Sián delivers a total of 819 hp (602 kW), and still produces the distinctly emotive resonance demanded from a Lamborghini engine. The Sián’s weight-topower ratio is better than that of the Aventador SVJ, achieved through extensive use of lightweight materials. The Sián reaches a top speed of over 350 km/h. The Lamborghini Sián incorporates a highly advanced regenerative braking system, especially developed by Lamborghini.

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The innovative system also delivers instant acceleration in low gears, with improved traction force provided by the combination of V12 engine and hybrid system. This makes the Sián the fastest accelerating Lamborghini ever, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.8 seconds. The improvement in elasticity maneuvers is even more evident. Traction force is improved by up to 10% in third gear and the 30 to 60 km/h acceleration time is improved by 0.2 seconds compared to the Aventador SVJ. In higher gears and lower speeds the electric motor increases traction force by up to 20%, reducing the 70 to 120 km/h acceleration by 1.2 seconds compared to the Aventador SVJ. This new level of Lamborghini performance and driving emotion is accompanied by a heightened level of driving comfort facilitated by the hybrid system. The moment when deceleration and missing torque is felt during gear changes powered by a traditional combustion engine, is eliminated by the torque upshift fill provided by the hybrid’s e-motor: the pilot will feel only the pull backward of acceleration, eliminating any possible uncomfortable jerking movements.

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Thanks to the symmetric behavior of the supercapacitor, which contrary to normal Li-Ion batteries can be charged and discharged with the same power, the Sián’s energy storage system is fully charged every time the vehicle brakes. The energy stored is an instantly-available power boost, allowing the driver to draw immediately on increased torque when accelerating away, up to 130 km/h when the e-motor automatically disconnects, improving the elasticity maneuvers and making it more than 10% faster than a car without this system.

all already sold

In the roof, the ‘Periscopio’ tunnel that originally incorporated a rear mirror in the Countach, adds a bold feature that links with the slats of the rear engine cover and important elements contributing to the car’s aerodynamic efficiency. The extreme Sián design is a clear statement of the car’s optimized aerodynamic efficiency and technological prowess: airflow is directed through the front splitters and through the front bonnet, through the side air intakes and outlets and over the rear spoiler. The Lamborghini Sián utilizes unique material science for the first time in an automotive application. Active cooling vanes on the rear use Lamborghini patented technology. The operation of these vanes is triggered by the reaction of smart-material elements to the temperature generated by the exhaust system, causing them to rotate and providing an elegant and lightweight cooling solution. The Sián haute couture: 63 unique pieces Not only is the Lamborghini Sián’s dynamism and intriguing technology clear in its design but it represents a new level of haute couture: all of the 63 masterpieces will be individually styled by each owner to create exclusive individuality through Lamborghini Centro Stile in conjunction with Lamborghini Ad Personam.

The Sián design – heading for the future The Lamborghini Sián’s design demonstrates its clear intent: a visionary and futuristic design in combination with outstanding aerodynamic solutions. It is a new super sports car for a new era, but still with the heart and soul of a Lamborghini, pushing the limits to fulfill the highest expectations. Taking futuristic inspiration from the Countach, the Gandini line is evident in its profile, while the silhouette introduces new features such as the characteristic aero wings, giving the Sián an unmistakable profile. The iconic Lamborghini ‘Y’ shape can be seen in the NACA air inlets on the doors, glass elements are included in the engine cover, and the diagonal line features in the front hood, as in the Countach. In its long, honed, sculptured contours, like the Countach, the Sián’s design is pure and uncluttered. The low front with integrated carbon fiber splitter is dominated by the ‘Y’-shape headlights, used for the first time to reflect the signature design of the night lights, originally designed for the Lamborghini Terzo Millennio. The extreme and strong rear of the car incorporates the hexagonal design so linked with Lamborghini, including six hexagonal tail lights inspired by the Countach. The rear wing is integrated within the profile, and extends out only during the driving to enhance the performance.

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The specifically designed configuration for the car shown at the IAA in Frankfurt in Verde Gea (green) with details in Oro Electrum (electric gold) is visualizing the electrified Lamborghini of the future and underlining Lamborghini’s leadership in terms constantly striving for the highest execution of color and materials. It is painted with a very precious multilayer color containing golden flakes and golden crystals, perfectly complementing the internal design. The interior is executed with aniline leather in ‘Terra di Sant’Agata Bolognese’, specifically developed and implementing 3D printed parts for the first time in production. “The fastest Lamborghini must be a visual and symphonic feast, as remarkable to those who see it pass by as those privileged to drive it, “says Mitja Borkert, Head of Design at Automobili Lamborghini. “It takes inspiration from the Countach, but the Sián is a futuristic icon, not retrospective. Exclusivity is enhanced by total Ad Personam personalization that every one of the 63 Sián owners has the privilege of creating, in conjunction with me and the Centro Stile team: 63 individuals worldwide will own not only the fastest, but a unique Lamborghini.”

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INTRODUCING THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER

his is the new Land Rover Defender. An icon reimagined for the 21st century, it is clever, capable and safe for all the family, and in a category of its own. New Defender is built for adventurous hearts and curious minds, for those who know the value of community and strive to make a difference. The unmistakable silhouette is familiar yet new. It looks tough and is tough but designed with purpose and engineered to excite. Iconic in name, shape and capability, Defender can be personalised to allow owners to make the most of their world. Across seven decades of pioneering innovation, Land Rovers have earned a unique place in the hearts of explorers, humanitarian agencies and adventurous families across the world. Proven in the harshest environments on earth, the new Defender maintains this bloodline. Beside the peerless luxury and refinement of the Range Rover family and the highly capable and versatile Discovery SUVs, new Defender completes the Land Rover dynasty. The 110 is just the start for this family of the most capable and durable 4x4s in the world. It will be swiftly followed by a compact, short wheelbase 90, before a pair of practical commercial models join the line-up in 2020. Driven by a passion and respect for the original, new Defender delivers transformational breadth of capability. Advanced all-terrain technologies redefine adventure for the 21st century, remaining true to the pioneering spirit that has been a Land Rover hallmark for 71 years. Emotionally charged design A distinctive silhouette makes the new Defender instantly recognisable, with minimal front and rear overhangs providing excellent approach and departure angles. Land Rover’s designers re-envisioned familiar Defender trademarks for the 21st century, giving the new 4x4 a purposeful upright stance and Alpine light windows in the roof, while retaining the side-hinged rear tailgate and externally-mounted spare wheel that make the original so identifiable. Gerry McGovern, Chief Design Officer, Land Rover, said: “The new Defender is respectful of its past but is not harnessed by it. This is a new Defender for a New Age. Its unique personality is accentuated by its distinctive silhouette and optimum proportions, which make it both highly desirable and seriously capable – a visually compelling 4x4 that wears its design and engineering integrity with uncompromised commitment.” The stripped-back personality of the original Defender has been embraced inside, where structural elements and fixings usually hidden from view have been exposed, with the emphasis on simplicity and practicality. Innovative features include a dashmounted gear shifter to accommodate an optional central front ‘jump’ seat, which provides three-abreast seating across the front like early Land Rovers. As a result, the Defender 110 offers five, six or 5+2 seating configurations, with a loadspace behind the second-row seats of up to 1,075 litres, and as much as 2,380-litres when the second row is folded. The Defender 90 will be able to accommodate six occupants in a vehicle the length of a compact family hatchback.

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User-friendly features include practical touches and advanced technological innovations. Durable rubberised flooring shrugs off the spills of daily adventures and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions, providing a brush or wipe clean interior. An optional full-length Folding Fabric Roof provides an open-top feel. It also allows passengers in the second-row seats of the Defender 110 to stand up when parked to provide the full safari experience. The definition of durability Land Rover’s new purpose-engineered D7x (for extreme) architecture is based on a lightweight aluminium monocoque construction to create the stiffest body structure Land Rover has ever produced. It is three times stiffer than traditional body-on-frame designs, providing perfect foundations for the fully independent air or coil sprung suspension and supports the latest electrified powertrains. The new Defender has been through more than 62,000 tests for engineering sign-off, while the chassis and body architecture have been engineered to withstand Land Rover’s Extreme Event Test procedure – repeated and sustained impacts, above and beyond the normal standard for SUV and passenger cars. During development testing, prototype models have covered millions of kilometres across some of the harshest environments on earth, ranging from the 50-degree heat of the desert and sub 40-degree cold of the Arctic to altitudes of 10,000ft in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. A world-class expert off and on-road A transformational breadth of capability sets new Defender apart. Permanent all-wheel drive and a twin-speed automatic gearbox, centre differential and optional Active Locking Rear Differential ensure it has all the hardware required to excel in the soft sand of the desert, the freezing tundra of the arctic and everywhere in between. Configurable Terrain Response debuts on new Defender, allowing experienced off-roaders to fine-tune individual vehicle settings to perfectly suit the conditions, while inexperienced drivers can let the system detect the most appropriate vehicle settings for the terrain, using the intelligent Auto function. The new body architecture provides ground clearance of 291mm and worldclass off-road geometry, giving the 110 approach, breakover and departure angles of 38, 28 and 40 degrees (Off Road height) respectively. Its maximum wading depth of 900mm is supported by a new Wade programme in the Terrain Response 2 system, which ensures drivers can ford deep water with complete confidence. On dry land, Land Rover’s advanced ClearSight Ground View technology helps drivers take full advantage of Defender’s all-conquering capability by showing the area usually hidden by the bonnet, directly ahead of the front wheels, on the central touchscreen. As a result, the new Defender redefines breadth of capability, raising the threshold for both off-road ruggedness and onroad comfort. It can negotiate crowded city streets as effortlessly as climbing mountains, crossing deserts and withstanding freezing temperatures. Its carefully honed handling delivers both a rewarding drive and first-class long-haul comfort across all terrains.

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Power and efficiency A choice of advanced petrol and cleaner diesel engines ensure new Defender has the power, control and efficiency for any environment, while a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain will join the range next year providing the prospect of silent EV-only progress. At launch, the petrol line-up comprises a four-cylinder P300 and a powerful six-cylinder P400, featuring efficient Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology. Alternatively, customers can choose from a pair of four-cylinder diesels – the D200 and powerful D240 – both of which deliver fuel economy of 37.2mpg (7.6 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 199g/km (NEDC equivalent). Innovative engineering solutions support the efficiency drive, including a flat underbody which both optimises aerodynamic performance (as low as 0.38Cd) and protecting the vehicle’s underbody. 21st century technology b New Defender is as technologically advanced as it is durable. It introduces Land Rover’s new Pivi Pro infotainment system. The next generation touchscreen is intuitive and user-friendly, requiring few inputs to perform frequently used tasks, while its always-on design guarantees almost instant responses. In addition, the new Defender takes Software-Over-The-Air (SOTA) technology to a new level, with 14 individual modules capable of receiving remote updates. By downloading data while customers are asleep at home or in far-flung locations, the new Defender will get better with age: as electronic updates cascade down to the vehicle immediately, without delay and with no need to visit a Land Rover retailer. 64 NEWS

Nick Rogers, Executive Director, Product Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “We’ve embraced Defender’s stunning capability and minimalistic, functional interior to reinvent the icon for the 21st century. New Defender gives us the licence to do things differently, to push the boundaries and do the unthinkable, without ever losing the character and authenticity of the original. From the start we had an absolute obsession with functionality beneath the skin, from choosing the right materials through to state of the art connectivity. The result is not only the most capable Land Rover ever made, but also a truly comfortable, modern vehicle that people will love to drive.” Personalised for your world New Defender will be available in 90 and 110 body designs, with up to six seats in the 90 and the option of five, six or 5+2 seating in the 110. The model range comprises Defender, First Edition and top of the range Defender X models, as well as standard, S, SE, HSE specification packs. Customers will be able to personalise their vehicle in more ways than any previous Land Rover with four Accessory Packs. The Explorer, Adventure, Country and Urban Packs each give Defender a distinct character with a specially selected range of enhancements. The exclusive First Edition model features a unique specification and will be available throughout the first year of production. Customers will also be able to opt for a new Satin Protective Film to make the exterior paintwork even more durable. The sustainable, solvent-free and completely recyclable wrap helps protect against everything from car park scratches to bramble rash and will be available as a factory-fit option with Indus Silver, Gondwana Stone and Pangea Green colours, providing a unique contemporary finish as it protects new Defender’s paintwork. In addition to the Accessory Packs, new Defender is available with the widest choice of individual accessories ever assembled for a new Land Rover, with everything from a Remote Control Electric Winchº, Rooftop Tent and Inflatable Waterproof Awnings to more conventional tow bar systems and roof racks.

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The Off-Roader of the Future

the Audi AI:TRAIL quattro

he four-seater Audi AI:TRAIL quattro combines the capacity for automated driving with superb off-road capabilities. The glass surrounding the cabin extends all the way to ground level, providing unrivaled all-round visibility. The ample battery capacity ensures sufficient range even away from dense networks of charging stations. The “Trail” part of the name evokes the idea of exploring nature. That is why there are no big screens on board for streaming TV series or videoconferencing; instead, broad glass surfaces provide a clear view of the surroundings. This is how Marc Lichte, Audi’s Head of Design, describes the use case: “With the AI:TRAIL, we are showing an off-road concept with an emissions-free electric drive for an innovative driving experience away from paved roads. Consistent with this, we designed a monolithic basic vehicle body with maximum glazing to create an intense connection to the surroundings. A concept for sustainable mobility on demand.” Audi’s visionary vehicles The Audi AI:TRAIL quattro is the fourth entrant in the series of concept cars with electric drive systems, which began with the presentation of the Audi Aicon at the 2017 iteration of the IAA.

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Following this luxury-class vehicle very much intended for highly automated long-distance driving, an emissions-free monoposto designed for the race track, the Audi PB18 e-tron, made its debut in Pebble Beach in 2018. It has been given a new name in time for IAA 2019, gaining the shared “AI” prefix to indicate that it, too, is part of the family. It is now known as the AI:RACE, which leaves no illusions as to the purpose of the electric sports car. The third in the series, the Audi AI:ME—introduced at the 2019 Auto Shanghai show—is an autonomous city car aimed at megacities all over the world. It allows its passengers to stop worrying about the stop-and-go traffic that is inevitable in urban areas, offering them perfect connectivity and a comprehensive range of infotainment services, helping them to spend their time in the vehicle as usefully and as relaxed as possible. Finally, with the AI:TRAIL, Audi is now opening up the potential applications for its visionary vehicles to include off-road terrain. The car is equipped with four electric motors, systems for assisted and automated driving and—typically for Audi—quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The Aicon, AI:ME, AI:RACE and AI:TRAIL are united by more than just the concept of sustainable drive systems and a body line that will run far into the future. They also embody an entirely new mobility concept for the brand with the four rings. Unlike the cars of the present, such vehicles will no longer have to compromise between a wide range of uses and scenarios. Instead, it will be possible to design tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cars for much more specific use cases. In the future, customers will be able to order any of these specialist Audi models from an Audi on demand vehicle pool to suit their personal preferences and requirements and to lease them for a limited period.

Emissions-free driving in the great outdoors

In the process, they will not have to miss out on the high level of customization that is taken for granted in the premium segment nowadays. That is because it will be possible for all the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available data and preferences to be taken into account in the process of configuring and equipping the vehicle for lease. Customers who book a vehicle will then not only get their desired vehicle but also can have it configured to suit their personal preferences as far as possible. The color, interiors, and technical options can be pre-configured online with the app or via the driver details stored in the myAudi system. Even driversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; preferred interior temperature, the perfect ergonomic seat adjustment, and their personal music library will already be activated when they get into the car. This offer is accessible and easy to use via a simple app that connects the vehicle order, personal preferences of the user, and numerous options that can be used while on the road.

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Ferrari 812 GTS the V12 spider returns

xactly 50 years on from the debut of the last spider in the Ferrari range to sport a frontmounted V12, the 812 GTS hails a triumphant return for a model type that has played a pivotal role in the marque’s history since its foundation. The Ferrari V12 spider story features many iconic models and began in 1948 with the 166 MM, an authentic thoroughbred competition GT that won the two most prestigious endurance races in the world in 1949: the Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The last in that long lineage was the 1969 365 GTS4, also known as the Daytona Spider because of Ferrari’s legendary victory in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona when two works 330 P4s and the NART-entered 412 P took the chequered flag side-by-side to occupy the top three places. The front-mounted V12 architecture has not been used in a Ferrari series-production spider since the 365 GTS4. That said, four special series limited editions have been launched: the 550 Barchetta Pininfarina in 2000, the Superamerica in 2005, the SA Aperta in 2010 and, most recently, the F60 America of which just 10 were built to celebrate Ferrari’s 60th year on the American market in 2014. Like its historic predecessors, the 812 GTS sets a new benchmark in terms of performance and exclusivity. Sporting Ferrari’s majestic 800 cv V12, it is not merely the most powerful production spider on the market, but also the most versatile, thanks to its retractable hard top, a unique feature in this segment which also guarantees a larger boot capacity. The retractable hard top (RHT), which opens in just 14 seconds at speeds of up to 45 km/h, does not impinge upon the interior dimensions, thus maintaining the donor car’s roomy cockpit. The electric rear screen, which acts as a wind-stop, makes the car truly useable with the top down while, with the top up, it can be left open to allow occupants to continue to luxuriate in the naturally-aspirated V12’s unique soundtrack.

0-100 km/h

3.0seconds

top speed: 340 km/h

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0-100 km/h

2.9seconds top speed: 340 km/h

The Ferrari F8 Spider The mid-rear-engined drop-top powered by the most successful Ferrari V8 ever

errari has unveiled the F8 Spider, the new generation drop-top sports car equipped with the most successful mid-rear-mounted V8 in history. The Ferrari F8 Spider was designed in parallel with the F8 Tributo berlinetta and features the Prancing Horse’s compact and efficient RHT (Retractable Hard Top) which influences the lines of a model that leads its category. The F8 Spider is the latest addition to an exclusive and prestigious bloodline of open-top V8 cars begun with the 308 GTS in 1977. It is less extreme than the 488 Pista Spider, but sportier than the 488 Spider which it replaces in the range. Consequently, the F8 Spider sets a new benchmark for the “en plein air” sports car in terms of usable performance and exceptional handling, providing an incredibly rewarding driving experience. In fact, it excels in merging handling dynamics with surprising in-car comfort.

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This Ferrari spider thus combines the characteristics of the most lauded 8-cylinder engine in history with unparalleled driving pleasure. The V8 has raised the performance bar to unprecedented new heights, not only for turbo engines but power units of all types. The engine is a development of the V8 that won the “International Engine of the Year Award” for four consecutive years (2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019) and that was also selected as the best engine of the last two decades. An incredible feat unmatched in the history of the Awards. The F8 Spider’s greatest achievement is the fact that it unleashes its power instantaneously with zero turbo lag, whilst retaining this V8’s unique and very special soundtrack. This astonishing performance and the car’s disarmingly effortless handling were made possible by integrating a series of innovative, track-derived aero solutions into its design.

The mission of every new model produced by Maranello is to introduce new design features and outperform its predecessors on all fronts. The challenge the engineers and designers always face is to push their own creative limits and the boundaries of technology by introducing new, leadingedge solutions and setting new levels of excellence. This is something they have done to brilliant effect once again with this new model. The F8 Spider replaces the 488 Spider and improves on all aspects of its specifications: aside from the fact that its engine delivers an extra 50 cv, the new Ferrari is 20 kg lighter than its predecessor. It weighs just 20 kg more than the more extreme 488 Pista Spider. The F8 Spider is significantly more aerodynamically efficient, too and features the new 6.1 version of the Side Slip Angle Control system.

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World premiere of the Porsche Taycan

orsche presented its first fully-electric sports car to the public today with a spectacular world premiere held simultaneously on three continents. “The Taycan links our heritage to the future. It carries forward the success story of our brand – a brand that has fascinated and thrilled people the world over for more than 70 years,” said Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG, who opened the world premiere in Berlin: “This day marks the start of a new era.” The four-door sports saloon is a unique package, offering typical Porsche performance and connectivity with everyday usability. At the same time, highly advanced production methods and the features of the Taycan are setting new standards in the fields of sustainability and digitalisation. “We promised a true Porsche for the age of electromobility – a fascinating sports car that not only excites in terms of its technology and driving dynamics, but also sparks a passion in people all over the world, just like its legendary predecessors have done. Now we are delivering on this promise,” emphasises Michael Steiner, Member of the Executive Board of Porsche AG – Research and Development.

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0-100 km/h

2.8seconds top speed: 260 km/h

The first models in the new series are the Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo. They are at the cutting edge of Porsche E-Performance and are among the most powerful production models that the sports car manufacturer currently has in its product range. Less powerful variants of these all-wheel drive vehicles will follow this year. The first derivative to be added will be the Taycan Cross Turismo at the end of next year. By 2022, Porsche will have invested more than six billion euros in electromobility.

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MASERATI HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2019 GOODWOOD REVIVAL

aserati’s spirits were high, as they showcased the past and present of V8 engine Maserati cars at the glamorous Goodwood Revival. Held at the famous racing circuit in West Sussex, the event captures the automotive world as it was from 1948 to 1966 with both competitors and spectators in period dress. As an Automotive Partner of Goodwood Revival, Maserati once again took part in the Earl’s Court Motor Show with a display highlighting the history of the V8 Maserati cars and inspired by the marque’s classic 1960s motor show stands. Taking pride of place on the stand was the brand new V8 Maserati Levante GTS, finished in Bianco Alpi with a nero interior. The Levante GTS perfectly embodies the Italian marque’s legendary DNA, with a 3.8 litre V8 Twin Turbo petrol engine and developing 530 HP, the GTS features an exterior restyling focused on the lower front fascia and the rear bumper, also giving the Levante GTS a strong stance and head turning presence. The GTS was joined on stand by a stunning Quattroporte Series 1, the first series production Maserati with a V8 engine.

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Over fifteen classic Maserati models, including a 6CM, 8CM, Tipo 63 along with four examples of the iconic 250F, were competing at Revival, featuring in races across the three-day event. Maserati cars took to the circuit competing in the Goodwood Trophy, Freddie March Memorial Trophy, Richmond & Gordon Trophies and Sussex Trophy. Highlights from the weekend included a third place finish and fastest lap for Richard Wilson in a Maserati 250S during the Freddie March Memorial Trophy. Guests of Maserati were able to experience old world glamour at the Revival, enjoying exclusive hospitality at Goodwood House on Sunday, and being chauffeur driven to and from the Revival in a fleet of Maserati Levante, Quattroporte and Ghibli models.

MASERATI ONCE AGAIN TOOK PART IN THE EARL’S COURT MOTOR SHOW WITH A DISPLAY HIGHLIGHTING THE HISTORY OF THE V8 MASERATI CARS

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genesis g90 Living Proof of a Modern Luxury Sedan  By: Tarek Hawchar  PHOTOS: SHADI PANOSIAN

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enesis is to Hyundai what Lexus is to Toyota. Both are luxury subsidiaries of their parent brands and both excel in what they do. However, while Lexus enjoys a rich and ancient history, the Genesis brand is in its adolescent stage. Genesis’s fairly recent initiation in 2015 hasn’t stopped the brand from reaching great heights in a short amount of time. The Genesis G90 is a testament to the Korean brand’s progress, modernization, and positive future. The midsized luxury sedan has several state of the art modern features that put the driver at ease. There is no better way to beat the Doha heat than to enjoy a nice drive in a luxury car that has a nice air-con. And if that car is the all-new Genesis G90 sedan, then that is just the icing on the cake. I got the chance to take the G90 on Doha roads to test its mettle against the extreme desert heat and what I learned was amazing.

exterior It was hot and humid that day with the sun glaring down from the skies like it was mid-June. It is usually a bit chilly in the morning but not in Doha. Here, everything heats up so I had to keep my trusty F1 hat with me all day. I was asked to reach the Genesis showroom on Salwa Road on the scheduled time. I reached the venue 10 minutes in advance not being able to contain my excitement for the upcoming journey. The Genesis G90 was parked right outside the showroom, shining under the bright sun. This G90, with its grey exterior color, looked a class apart from the other cars parked close by. I couldn’t help but notice the huge inverted pyramid style grille at the front, which looked strangely similar to the grille found in some Mazda cars. Eerily enough, the headlights also looked like they were borrowed from a Ford Fusion, but the overall look seemed nice and elegant. The entire body looked pretty even though there were no aggressive lines or sharp curves to capture a customer’s attention. In short, it looked like Genesis borrowed bits and pieces of design from here and there to craft their version.

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INTERIOR It is said about luxury cars that unless you are driven around in one, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get the full luxury experience. However, this is not true about the G90. This car is certainly designed to impress both the driver and the passengers. I was stunned by the leather-flushed interior for a moment. The cabin was expansive and cozy at the same time. The use of soft leather almost everywhere and the color scheme made the interior atmosphere exquisite. The dash had a nice wooden texture to it to add to the contrast of the interior and the thick center console completed the luxurious image. The rear passengers get their very own screens for entertainment and cushiony leather seats for relaxation. All seats had their electronic adjusters for extra customization. A beautifully put together interior cabin in my opinion. review 81

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ENGINE I started up the car, without wasting any more time goofily admiring the interior and as expected the engine did not rumble and roar something you would expect from a luxury sedan. The Genesis G90 comes with two engine options. I opted for the larger engine in my test car to see how it performed when put under pressure. The smaller engine is a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 that makes a healthy 365 horsepower. The bigger engine is 5.0 liter V8 that makes a remarkable 420 hp. Both engines are teamed up with an 8-speed transmission which takes power to either a rearwheel drive or an all-wheel-drive setup.

Driving Experience The car drove like a dream. It felt like it was running on clouds rather than on the road. The cabin is really quite and keeps the road noise out. The seats feel really soft and comfortable. The suspension does a good job of minimizing jerks, bumps, and imperfections on the road like its child’s play. The G90 did not go out of control once I floored it. It had a smooth throttle response and agile yet controlled acceleration. I did feel the G90 losing grip in the corners. I did feel there was a bit of body roll in the corners but that is something that can be forgiven since this car is not intended to be driven like a racecar.

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smooth throttle response and agile yet controlled acceleration

VERDICT I wanted to drive the G90 as a bit more but there is only so much you can do in one day and on a borrowed car. I didn’t feel like saying goodbye to this brilliant luxury car. The Genesis G90 is no Rolls Royce Phantom or Mercedes S-Class but it still has its own style and way of attracting the luxury car enthusiast.

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A CELEBRATION OF POWER

FERRARI

F8 TRIBUTO  By: Tarek Hawchar

ust four years after the launch of the 488 GTB, Ferrari felt it was time to bring in some new blood, and the new-blood wild car is the 2020 F8 Tributo. As its name suggests, the newcomer is a “tribute” to the Prancing Horse’s award-winning 3.9-liter eight-cylinder engine—A series of throbbing engines that have powered Ferrari’s most iconic cars since its first road-going V-8 in the 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB. Yes, Ferrari is paying tribute to itself! Unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the F8 Tributo is a mid-engined supercar to replace the Italian manufacturer’s 488 GTB, just as both the 812 Superfast and GT4Lusso replaced the F12berlinetta and FF, respectively. With a 3.9-liter twin-turbo, 720-hp engine, 770 Nm of torque, and a seven-speed dualclutch gearbox, the F8 Tributo is more powerful and aerodynamic than its predecessor—the 488 GTB. Luckily, the F8 Tributo is designed to combine the everyday usability of the old 488GTB with the scorching performance of the limited-run, track-ready 488 Pista. Simply put, it is a “more user-friendly 488 Pista”!

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The F8 Tributo is designed to combine the everyday usability of the old 488GTB with the scorching performance of the track-ready 488 Pista

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720CV 770NM OF TORQUE

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The sport bucket seats are amazingly comfortable and offer excellent lateral support, even for longer trips

Before climbing behind the wheel of this “untamed beast”, we expected that the F8 Tributo would be as exhilarating and fantastic to drive as the frenetic 488 Pista. Our expectations were high, and the supercar didn’t disappoint. We had the chance to fully explore the endless dynamic power that comes from the F8 Tributo’s potent engine on Ferrari’s Fiorano test track—surely a mind-blowing experience for sports-car lovers like us!

After that, we were given the opportunity to unleash the full potential of the F8 Tributo on a 300 km plus route through the craggy Apennine Mountains outside Modena, Italy. Whipping around narrow single-lane roads, the supercar handled with tremendous agility, given the sharp directional changes and fast curves of the road. It was great fun to push that “beast” to the very limit!

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exterior Style-wise, the all-new F8 Tributo is unmistakably a Ferrari. While the new updates are not a massive deviation from that of the 488 GTB, they are notably distinguishable. Similarly, the F8 Tributo also borrowed some design traits from the track-focused 488 Pista. The F8 Tributo is “essentially a bridge to a new design language,” which means many design elements of the latest iteration will definitely make their way onto future models. Adopting Ferrari’s latest design language on the exterior, the new F8 Tributo features a 488 Pistainspired front bumper, including the central pillar and large outlets on the sides. Unlike the dualvent design of the 488 GTB, there is a single large air scoop located in the center of the hood—a further nod to the F8 Tributo’s sporty sibling. Moving further back, there are some important design updates. The 488 GTB’s twin taillight cluster has been replaced with a new quad LED design. The rear diffuser now sports aggressive fins and big exhaust pipes. Last but not least, the new Lexan engine cover pays homage to the legendary Ferrari F40. The cover’s three horizontal louvers help extract hot air from the engine bay, while increasing the rear downforce. They also serve an aerodynamic purpose! According to the Italian brand, the exterior updates have helped to improve aerodynamic efficiency by 10 percent compared to the 488 GTB. Thanks to significant modifications to the S-Duct, rear spoiler, vortex generators, front underbody, and rear diffuser, the F8 Tributo’s overall aerodynamic coefficient has been increased, giving the newcomer a strong personality of its own through an even sleeker, sporty design. Dimensionally speaking, the mid-engined supercar has an overall length of 4611 mm and measures 1979 mm and 1206 mm in width and height, respectively, with a 2650 mm long wheelbase.

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AERODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY

The exterior updates have helped to improve aerodynamic efficiency by 10 percent compared to the 488 GTB

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INTERIOR Though Ferrari has completely overhauled the interior, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still reminiscent of the 488 GTB. Among the key interior highlights are the turbine-look circular air vents, a new steering wheel with reduced diameter, and a new seven-inch infotainment touchscreen display located at the dashboard directly in front of the passenger. Elsewhere, there is a mix of premium materials, including leather, carbon-fiber, and contrasting stitching. On the whole, the build quality is second to none, and the materials used in the F8 Tributoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cabin are one step above the competition. Likewise, the sport bucket seats are amazingly comfortable and offer excellent lateral support, even for longer trips and a few hours behind the wheel

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0-100 km/h

2.9seconds 40kg top speed: 340 km/h

lighter than the 488GTB

ENGINE The real treasure of the new supercar is under the hood, where a twin-turbo, 3.9-liter V-8 engine is chugging out 720 hp and 770 Nm of torque—a 50 hp increase over the 488 GTB. Hooked to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sending power to the rear wheels, the eight-cylinder unit enables the stiffened-up version of the 488 GTB to go from zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds before hitting a top speed of 340 km/h. It goes without saying that this powerful V8 engine has won a hatful of awards since it was introduced in the 488 GTB. It is the best engine of the past two decades, according to the International Engine of the Year jurors! However, Ferrari managed to shave a significant 18 kg off the engine alone in the F8 Tributo. In general, the overall weight of the F8 is 1330 kg—a 40 kg drop compared to its predecessor. Better yet, the engine has a massive output of 182.5 horsepower per liter—one of the highest power-per-liter ratios among all Ferrari IC engines.

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While the F8 Tributo has the same engine as the 488 Pista and boasts similar overall performance figures, it is still 0.05 seconds slower than the 488 Pista when it comes to the zero-to-100 km/h sprint. Another thing that sets this engine apart from the 488 Pista’s is the addition of the Gas Particulate Filter (GPF). The new GPF helps the engine meet Euro 6 emission standards, as it reduces particulate matter pollution by 90% and sucks around 15 hp from the engine. Without artificial electronic means, a mechanical resonator has been applied to pipe sounds from the exhaust system into the cabin, making the engine louder by 8 dB—in terms of perceptible in-cabin sound. On the technology front, the new mid-engined supercar sports a host of advanced and innovative gadgets, including the latest version of the Side Slip Angle Control.

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When we mashed the accelerator, and this powerful engine was let loose on the track at Ferrariâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fiorano, all hell broke loose

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The latter system is integrated with the E-Diff3, F1-Trac, the magnetorheological suspension (SCM), and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE). First introduced in the 488 Pista, the FDE adjusts the brake pressure and calipers, along with controlling the lateral dynamics in the more track-focused Race mode! The SCC transition from version 6.0 to 6.1 means the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer (FDE) works in both RACE and CT Off modes, which reduces the degree of oversteer by 30% compared to the 488 GTB. Consequently, drivers will now feel more confident in lengthy oversteer maneuvers by improving their control for even more engaging driving—increasing the overall safety of the ride.

When we mashed the accelerator, and this powerful engine was let loose on the track at Ferrari’s test circuit at Fiorano, all hell broke loose. We drove the supercar under different driving modes and completed four laps. Our best lap time on that amazing racetrack was one minute and 25 seconds—Ferrari says the F8 can lap the Fiorano in one minute and 22.5 seconds!

VERDICT Thanks to an ideal weight-to-power ratio of 1.85 hp/liter, low center of gravity, a high-revving 720-hp V-8 engine with a deafening roar, and good steering that provides great connection to the road, the successor to the 488 GTB has everything it takes to provide an exhilarating driving experience with no turbo lag. Needless to say, the supercar’s most important feature is its firm suspension that allowed us to handle the tightest bends on the undulating mountainous roads of Italy. Overall, the F8 Tribute is a terrific supercar worth every penny and has no chinks in its armor.

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Time to deliver

2020 Fiat Ducato

or an industry to shift and adopt a new foundation, things have to start in the background, away from the public eye. We didn’t get to cross continents with jet engines until wartime pilots tried them out first. Today’s supercars had to wait for carbon fibre to first prove itself on the Grand Prix circuit before reaching the showroom. And as another example, perhaps the electric vehicle hype started in the wrong place - instead of proposing the technology to consumers, electric propulsion might still be best suited to commercial uses. It was Tesla’s arrival in the Middle East, as electric vehicles suddenly became new status symbols, proclaiming a sassy attitude with a mix of environmental concern. It helps that driving a Tesla, or most other electric vehicles on the market, also shouts, “I have money.” In short, electric cars aren’t cheap. The technology is in its early phase despite the concept being as old as the automobile (some of the earliest cars were powered b electricity), and manufacturers have to recoup massive investments in new production lines and methods, or in increasing cases, entirely new factories. So this makes perfect sense if you bear with us here. In Turin, for the reveal of a brand new electric vehicle, Sharp was treated to the unveiling of a massive white box that said Fiat on it. Since batteries lend themselves quite nicely to being laid flat on the floor, electric propulsion is perfectly suited to something such as this Fiat Ducato van, because the drivetrain frees up room for passengers and cargo, and the Italians say that when the van goes on sale next year it won’t compromise on space and performance compared to the regular fossil-fuel burning versions.

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the smoothness and the ride quality stands out on the go It’s just that, should you need to deliver something far away, let’s hope it’s not in a hurry because you’ll need to stop and recharge the batteries after 220km. Fiat will be offering versions with a range of up to 330km, developing a maximum of 120 horsepower and 280Nm, which is about equal to a small hatchback. However in Turin we weren’t given a chance to drive the zero-emissions van, since Fiat is focusing on the petrol-engined Ducato at launch as it’s the model coming to our Middle Eastern shores early next year. The electric van will only be available at the end of 2020. The big deal in the new Ducato is a range of the latest engines, plus a start stop function that saves fuel in heavy traffic or at red lights, a new electronically controlled fuel pump, and an energy-efficient ‘Eco’ driving mode. For the first time, the 2020 Fiat Ducato also comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission in an attempt to make the van decidedly easier and more comfortable to drive.

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It’s easy to place the big Fiat anywhere without any fear of knocking over stuff on the side of the road The top of the range engine delivers 180 horsepower and 450Nm of torque, but a further two variants are available lower down the range, all based on a 2.3-litre four-cylinder. In the middle of the pack you can have 140 horsepower, while the line-up kicks off with a 120 horsepower model. Certainly, in the most powerful Ducato the smoothness and the ride quality stands out on the go, and the ample torque from the engine makes uphill climbs a doddle since. Gear shifts are hardly noticeable and the mid-range power means the transmission is never fishing for gears all the time since you can pick it up in any ratio. Since vans spend so much time in crowded environments during peak driving times, the new Ducato also comes with loads of driver assistance kit, such as blind spot monitoring, and radar sensors to identify other cars coming from the side when you’re reversing. Try backing out anywhere once in a van as big as this and you’ll be grateful for the feature. On the move you also get a lane departure warning system, traffic sign recognition, high beam recognition, a rain and dusk sensor, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Fiat put emphasis on making this 2020 Ducato as carlike to drive as possible, and the driving position takes the most getting used to, however when you’ve got so much visibility it’s naturally effective and you wish all cars had this cab-forward layout. It’s easy to place the big Fiat anywhere without any fear of knocking over stuff on the side of the road, because the light and precise steering also instills some confidence in the driver. If the electric van is anything as easy to drive as the combustion-engined version, and it should be even better, Fiat might have a winner on its hands with the 2020 Ducato particularly in the commercial sector. Fitted out in a passenger configuration with some actual windows and seats, it could serve as part of a shorter-range bus network or airport/hotel shuttle, with a zero-emissions boast to boot, and not just a delivery van bringing your compost to your door. Sure, someone has to do the dirty work, right up until it’s our turn to start driving electric vehicles.

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DRIVING THE CLASSICS

ALFA ROMEO

1900 SPORT SPIDER  By: Tarek Hawchar

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lfa Romeo can arguably be called one of the pioneers of the motorsports industry. The Italian marque has been making exceptional sports cars for over a hundred years now. Not only did Alfa Romeo make remarkable cars but it won countless races with its virtually unbeatable beasts. One such car they made was the 1950 Alfa Romeo 1900. This car was a new way forward for Alfa Romeo as they shifted their focus towards mass producing reliable street-legal cars. However, keeping their racing spirit alive, the Italian company was soon compelled to produce a limited edition sport edition that could be driven both on the streets and on the track. Hence, the 1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sport Spider was born. The 1900 Sport Spider was such a success that it is now part of Alfa Romeoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum in Arese, Italy. I got to judge the aesthetics of this car first hand when I visited the Alfa Romeo Museum in Italy a few days ago. Better yet, I got to take it out for a spin on the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedicated track. It was like a dream had come true.

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Aesthetic Appearance I woke up early on the scheduled day and got to the venue as fast as my rental would take me. On first glance, I couldn’t help but notice that the 1900 Sport Spider looked a lot like the 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster’s cousin. On closer inspection, it became clear that Porsche did borrow several design cues from its Italian counterpart. The car shone brightly under the Museum lights and its red color made it stand out among the other legendary Alfa Romeo’s in the room. The sleek body did not have any definite lines as we often see in modern sports cars. But with its huge hood, it did look monstrous. The rear end resembled a large tomato with mere blips as taillights.

Under the Hood The car was started and steered out on the track by the Museum staff. I couldn’t help but listen in awe the rumbling sound this compact sports car made. It was powered by a 1,997 cc twin-cam engine that had hemispherical combustion chambers and was fed by two Weber carburetors. This inline-four engine had an iron engine block with an aluminum head for optimum weight reduction and performance. I was seated in the car as soon as it was set up on the starting line of the track. I could feel the 138 hp just waiting to be unleashed and that is what I did. I put the car in the first gear and off I went much to the anxiousness of the Museum staff.

Interior Fashion I wasn’t complaining since vehicles were styled very differently 70 years ago. We have come a long way in terms of both exterior and interior design. The interior of the 1900 Sport Spider was simple and bland. There was nothing too flashy or appealing inside. Since the 1950s was not known for technological innovation, there were no gadgets or distracting buttons just the bare minimum that would allow you to drive the car. Well, after I got a good glimpse of the car I decided it was time to take the car out for a drive.

Driving and Handling I am not accustomed to driving a right-hand drive car so the initial few turns and gear changes were a bit awkward for me. I was reaching for the shifter on the right-hand side and all I got was the door. Nevertheless, given my experience with driving cars, I quickly overcame this problem and started to enjoy the drive – a bit. Gear shifts were smooth and manageable once I got the hold of it.

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You could compare the Sport Spider with some modern sports cars if you consider the lightning-fast acceleration it provides

The 1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 Sport Spider was the company’s first-ever unibody car. Although unibody cars are a norm nowadays and they are superior in terms of handling. A unibody chassis allows for a lower center of gravity resulting in better cornering and reduced rollover. Oddly enough, this particular unibody vehicle was a bit shaky and difficult to drive. I had to adjust the speed and manage the braking at tight turns just so the car would not rollover. The large but slim wheels did not help the cause. The car was not getting enough traction from the road. And while the straight sections of the Museum track were a breeze to drive through, the turns and chicanes tested my driving skills to the limit. If only I had the liberty of taking this car out on real roads, a positive suspension assessment could then have been made. This car weighs a bit over 2,000 pounds which is not extravagant by any means but it does help with acceleration – a lot. You could compare the Sport Spider with some modern sports cars if you consider the lightning-fast acceleration it provides. Alfa Romeo did state that the car was able to reach the 137 mph mark but I did not dare try test that claims.

The car seemed to lose traction and wobble a bit as soon as it entered the three-digit mark. The steering response was a bit slow and not ideal for such high speeds. Moreover, I couldn’t trust the brakes. Seventy years old technology is still seventy years old no matter how advanced the car was at that time. Therefore, I tried to keep it simple and the brakes worked surprisingly better than I had expected. The 1900 SS was not one of the best cars I had driven in my years of driving but it was certainly one of the most enjoyable. It can certainly fit the description of a modern grand tourer and if driven with skill it could give great results on the track as well. Final Thoughts The 1900 Sports Spider could only make it to the prototype stage as Alfa Romeo never went forward with its production. As I bid adieu to one of the greatest cars ever made by Alfa Romeo I could only think about what could have been if the car had made it to the production line. It is one car that could have easily challenged the Porsches, Ferraris, and Jaguars of that time.

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A Brief Outlook on

Alfa Romeoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Rich History If you are just an average car enthusiast and you are asked to name some of the major vehicle manufacturers from Italy you would name Ferrari and probably even Lamborghini but you really donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get to call yourself a true motorhead until you realize the true history of Italian car manufacturing, the value of Alfa Romeo and their legacy of making exquisite vehicles since their inception.

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Nicola Romeo (Middle) & Enzo Ferrari (Right)

It all started back in Milan in the year 1910 when on 24th June the Italian marque known as Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili (A.L.F.A) was created. The company was initially named Societa Anonima Italian Darracq (SAID) and was founded by Alexandre Darracq, a Frenchman, who intended to make and sell Darracq models in Italy. However, Darracq failed badly and sales were not booming. This eventually led to the company being renamed and a number of new professionals were hired. One of them was designer Giuseppe Merosi who designed the first successful car of the company ‘24 HP’. The 24 HP was a powerful car that merited being part of the motorsports industry and that is what A.L.F.A intended to do with it. After just a year of being born in 1911, two 24 HP cars became part of the Targa Florio endurance race and performed wonderfully. Things went well for A.L.F.A for a while with the introduction of another model GP 1914 but then World War 1 broke out and the company came under the direct administration of entrepreneur Nicola Romeo who switched production to making military hardware and changed the company’s name to Alfa Romeo. War soon ended and by 1920 Alfa Romeo was back at producing race cars. The Torpedo 20-30 HP was the first car to be produced under the Alfa Romeo badge and it was no doubt pretty successful as it won at Mugello and got second place in the Targa Florio in 1920. The driver that took Alfa Romeo to second place was Enzo Ferrari, the founder of Ferrari himself, although he was only known as a driver back then. In 1923 a big change was made in the company as successful design chief Merosi was sacked and Vittorio Jano was given his place. The new design chief then went on to create the P2 Grand Prix car that won the first Grand Prix for Alfa Romeo. Jano also designed engines for road-running Alfa Romeo cars based on the P2’s engine. Nicola Romeo left Alfa Romeo in 1928 and the company was left without a spearhead. Thankfully, Mussolini’s government took over the company before it went into tatters. Under this era, Alfa Romeo created luxury sports cars for the wealthy Italian population like the 8C 2900B Touring Spider.

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Giuseppe Farina

However, once the Second World War broke out things changed again for Alfa Romeo. The company not only switched back to military-based production but after the war ended so did the Alfa Romeo’s profitability run. The company started making cars again like small family sedans and coupes that were mass-produced. But the racing spirit never died at Alfa Romeo and they kept on making sports cars and kept on competing in major sports events. The company’s 158 Alfetta became the first car under the capable hands of Giuseppe Farina to win the first-ever Formula One championship in 1950. Not only that, but the second-ever Formula One championship was also won by Alfa Romeo in 1951. After 1951 the company got hit by financial constraints and it barely made past that difficult time so to pull away from the trouble Alfa Romeo switched to converting road-legal cars into track-ready cars. They used the GTA to win the Trans-Am championship in 1966. Then they won a few races with the Tipo 33 prototype. The prototype was improved and several variants were created including the Tipo 33TT12 that won the World Championship for Makes in 1975 and the Tipo 33SC12 won the World Championship for Sports Cars in 1977. The company later produced the exciting P3, the exhilarating 6C 1750, the unmatched 8C and the relentless 155 V6 TI DTM. Alfa Romeo again fell in deep financial trouble by the late 1970s and was up for sale when two car manufacturers Ford and Fiat came forward to buy it. Ford would have been successful in grabbing ownership of Alfa Romeo but Fiat made an offer that Alfa Romeo could not refuse and by 1986 the company came under Fiat’s wing. Under Fiat, the company produced the 147 hatchbacks, Brera and the all famous 8C Competizione. Alfa Romeo could not be stopped in the past and it is not likely to give up in the future. The company has a legacy of winning countless motorsports championships and a hunger to be the best in its class. But that’s not what they are all about. Together with producing exceptional sports cars, Alfa Romeo produced some of the best road cars and we cannot finish talking about Alfa Romeo without discussing some of its great classics.

Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 Millie Miglia (1938) The 8C Millie Miglia is seen as one of the greatest classic cars in the world. A classic car event is not complete if this beautiful car is not present, it is that good. The Millie Miglia was the brainchild of designer Vittorio Jano who wanted to create a car that could look good and go extremely fast at the same time. The result was a 2.9-liter inline-eight supercharged engine that could churn out 180 hp. Jano designed the car so cleverly that it was both tracks ready as well as road legal. You could buy one and drive it on the road as easily as you could drive it on the track. Alfa Romeo produced many variants of this car each having a different powertrain but each one was as exciting as the other.

Alfa Romeo 1900 (1951) The Alfa Romeo 1900 was one of the first mass-produced cars by the company. The car was special from the day it first set foot on Italian roads. Alfa Romeo, keeping in mind their sports ideology, created a car that was for a small family but it was entirely capable of winning races. The powerful 1884 cc engine inside this vehicle could make 90 hp. It was not long before Alfa Romeo churned out sports variants for 1900. In 1951 the 1900TI was produced with an even stronger engine that could purge out 100 hp. The 1900 Super and 1900 TI Super followed two years later with increased output power. The 1900 was also one of the models that were favorites of coachbuilders.

Alfa Romeo 1600 Spider Duetto The Spider was a pretty successful vehicle for Alfa Romeo as it stayed in production for over three decades. The first model went into production in 1966 and the last one rolled out in 1993. The 1600 Spider Duetto was a successor to the famous 105-series Giulietta. The Giuletta had a number of street and race models. Alfa Romeo created the Spider based on the Giulietta and gave it the 1.6-liter engine. Later on, as newer models came into production the car was given a 1750 cc, a 1300 cc and eventually a 2000 cc engine. The big bulging headlights and a flat and sleek backside gave the Spider a unique appearance.

Alfa Romeo 147 Praise for Alfa Romeo cannot end without mentioning one of its modern achievements. This comes in the shape of the 147. The Alfa Romeo 147 was produced as a compact family car from 2000 to 2010. It had such a nice design, it was spacious and it had a decently powerful engine. Therefore, the car won the Best European Car of the year award in 2001. The 147 was given a 1.6-liter, 2.0-litre or a 3.2-liter petrol engine. A diesel variant was also introduced later. As is true with Alfa Romeo they could not stay away from producing a sports version of this car. And as such a GTA variant was launched that had a 3.2L V6 engine capable of producing 247 hp. The small car could reach speeds of up to 245 km/h.

Alfa Romeo 164 By the time Fiat took over Alfa Romeo in 1986, there was no decent road sedan made by the company. The folks at Alfa Romeo and Fiat decided that this should be changed and thus the designing of the 164 started. The 164 was designed by Pininfarina to compete against the likes of Ford Granada, BMW 5 Series, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The 164 had a number of variants including the 2.0L Twin Spark, the 3.0L V6, and the 2.5L Turbodiesel. Later on, the company introduced a more sports-oriented version that housed a large 3.0L V6 Quadrifoglio engine. This variant also had four-wheel drive to make it more effective in terms of acceleration. The Alfa Romeo 164 Q4 as it was called came on par with other luxury cars in its era. Although in terms of design the car was lacking. It was not as beautiful as its competitors but it sure did perform like a beast.

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MG RX8 Is Here To Conquer

 By: Tarek Hawchar  PHOTOGRAPHY: SHADI PANOSIAN

t takes time to rise up as an automotive marque and to truly become a force to be reckoned with. The British auto manufacturer MG motors did it in a short time. In a period of over 7-8 years, MG motors have infiltrated deep into the British automotive scene and have been able to get itself recognized internationally. Their wellbuilt and stylish family sedans, SUVs and coupes are the reason behind the brand’s success. Recently MG Motors released their brand-new seven-seat SUV called the MG RX8, not to be confused with the Mazda RX-8 sports car. Large-sized SUVs are the talk of the town nowadays and it is no surprise that MG wants in on the action. I had the absolute pleasure of driving one myself in Qatar a few days ago and might I say MG Motors has done a brilliant job of keeping the seven-seater relevant to today’s standards.

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the RX8 is more stylish than aggressive

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Unmatched Beauty I was scheduled for an afternoon test drive in the all-new MG RX8, needless to say, I wasn’t able to sleep very well the night before. The excitement got the best of me and I had to keep myself contained until I reached the designated venue. I was a bit groggy from the lack of sleep but boy did I wake up when I saw the RX8 in its full grandeur. This SUV does not look like any large-sized SUV in the market right now. SUVs are built to be huge and muscular with intimidating personas; however, the RX8 is more stylish than aggressive. It seems like the designers started from scratch when they sat down to imagine this vehicle. The RX8 has large headlights that merge into the front grille, that makes the grille and the headlamps look as if they are one piece. The MG logo sits in the middle of the grille. The designers have included air vents on both sides of the bumper for style and practicality while a skid plate sits at the bottom adding to the overall style of the SUV. I love the dual-slot hood that enhances the overall look of the car. The body lines on the side are minimal and subtle, nothing too aggressive. The rear of the vehicle is pretty muscular with dual exhausts as the cherry on top.

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Interior Cabin The cabin was expansive, which is an obvious assumption since the RX8 is a seven-seat SUV. I was doubly impressed by the intent towards luxury. Soft and exquisite materials are widespread throughout the interior cabin. The leather front seats are a nice touch and they are actually very comfortable. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel tired or uncomfortable at any time. The dash is very clean, in that there are no unnecessary buttons or knobs to distract the driver. A touch screen panel lets you control almost everything. It is also where you can play music and videos, make calls while driving, etc. The use of chrome and wood was really impressive.

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Both these materials have been added into the cabin carefully so that they are not ubiquitous. The center console has a mode selector which lets you switch between the different driving modes. The MG has six modes in total including Sport and Off-Road. I was able to switch between modes with relative ease and I was also able to control the traction, hill-assist feature using the buttons just below the knob. The rear-end seats of the RX8 are foldable so you can add extra luggage and cargo. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think I have ever seen boot space like this in a seven-seater.

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It is practical while being powerful at the same time. That’s a rare combination. Engine and Driving Dynamics It takes power to propel such a large vehicle forward and you can imagine how much power would be needed to haul the RX8 if it is full of people and cargo. Hence, I was compelled to check out the engine before I head out for a test drive. On opening the hood I saw the 2.0T engine. This 2-liter engine may look small, but it packs a punch. It is rated at 220 hp with peak torque of 360 Nm. If you compare this engine’s power and its size with its competitors you’ll be surprised, as I was. None of its competitors come close in engine performance. Impressed, I headed back into the cabin and started the SUV. The cabin was completely soundless. I could not hear any engine noise or road noise when I drove off towards the road. The overall ride was smooth with bumps and potholes not making much of a difference to the ride experience. The 20-inch alloy wheels are to be thanked for that feat. The MG RX8 is a 4X4 off-road vehicle, so that means it has a lot of grip both on and off the road. Verdict I only hope the MG RX8 gets the popularity it deserves because I felt it was a great vehicle to drive and to look at. It is practical while being powerful at the same time. That’s a rare combination. As I left the RX8 behind making my way to the hotel I had only one thought on my mind that this was one of the best days and the best drives of my life.

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Porsche Panamera Could Be the Sedan of Your Dreams  By: Tarek Hawchar  PHOTOGRAPHY: SHADI PANOSIAN

erman automobiles are known for their luxury, dependability, design and immense power. The German brand Porsche has the added benefit of being the one automobile marque from Germany that only makes performance-based cars. The Porsche car is built for racing, for reaching higher speeds and looking good while doing it. Sure, there are luxury aspects here and there, but nothing too serious. As such, the Stuttgart based auto marque rarely makes any four-door sedan style cars. A high percentage of their cars are coupes and roadsters, meant for speed and acceleration. However, it is hard to survive in an ever-changing market. Porsche has had to adapt over the years to stay relevant and to make inroads into sedan and SUV production. They made the Porsche Cayenne and the Porsche Panamera, as a result.

Looks That Could Kill The Porsche Panamera Turbo S has an appearance that is pleasing to the eye. From the front, it looks like any other Porsche with those huge headlights and lip-style grille. However, things start to change once you start tracing the subtle lines on the sides to the rear end of the car. The rear of the car is sleek and bulky at the same time. The taillights are like slits that sit well with the curving down the roof. I was impressed by the quad exhausts on this car. The throaty exhaust help brings out the true sound of the engine. Yes, quad exhausts are a must nowadays and it is no surprise that Porsche is following suit like the others. I must say that the Porsche Panamera Turbo S was a sight for sore eyes in the early morning Doha sun. If it wasn’t the Panamera, I wouldn’t have ever gotten out of bed.

The Panamera is a sedan for Porsche lovers that want a touch of luxury with the same racing ability that Porsche cars are known for. The Porsche Panamera comes in a hybrid variant, diesel variant, and a turbo variant. I had the chance to drive the Porsche Panamera Turbo S over the weekend and to state the obvious; the car was an absolute delight to drive around.

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The Beautiful Interior The leather seats in the interior cabin were soft and comfortable, something you would expect out of a luxury sports car. The words turbo emblazoned on the headrest were a nice touch. The entire cabin, on first glance, seemed to be bathed inexpensive materials. I could see leather almost everywhere from the dash to the center console. The wide rectangular infotainment system stood out in the dash but it matched well with the rest of the dashboard making it look like a part of it. The center console had several useful functions that can come handy in daily driving. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good thing since sedans are expected to be driven around in the city daily. The gear shifter was ergonomic and smooth. I could shift gears quite easily with it. The Doha day heat can get excruciating at times but as a plus point, you get to test the air conditioning system of any car. Needless to say, the Porsche Panamera A/C worked pretty well. The car has a climate control option that can adjust the cabin temperature based on the temperature outside. The gauge cluster is pretty basic but the addition of an extra informative screen is a plus where the driver can see their position on a map. This is a handy option for those of you who are not that good when it comes to navigation. I loved it since I am not that great with directions.

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Performance Dynamics The naturally aspirated Porsche Panamera is quite speedy so you can imagine what would happen if a turbocharger is applied to an already fast car. It would get fast beyond imagination and that is exactly what the Panamera Turbo is all about. However, Porsche didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop there, instead they made an even faster variant and called it the Panamera Turbo S. The Turbo S shares the 4.8-liter V8 twin-turbo engine with the Turbo variant; however, the Turbo S makes a whopping 542 hp and 750 Nm of torque. I could feel the difference in power from my experience of driving the Panamera Turbo earlier. The extra 50 hp in the Panamera Turbo S makes a difference. You jump from 0-100 km/h in a matter of seconds, 3.8 seconds to be exact. And that is all thanks to larger turbochargers, high-pressure fuel injection, aluminum alloy pistons, and a better launch control system. The car felt responsive to acceleration and sudden braking. It felt pretty solid in the corners with minimum effects of body roll. I was able to manage high-speed turns without fear of rolling over and the 7-speed dualclutch transmission was as smooth as silk giving me the liberty to drive at any speed I wanted.

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The naturally aspirated Porsche Panamera is quite speedy so you can imagine what would happen if a turbocharger is applied to an already fast car

Verdict There are not many sedans out there that can excite a motorhead. However, it is safe to say that the Porsche Panamera Turbo S is one sedan that you should at least drive once in your lifetime. The entire experience I had was worth waking up in the morning and braving the heat. You should try it out yourself.

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Exclusive Interview

Michiel van Ratingen Secretary General, Euro NCAP ď š By: ahmed magdy youssef

120 INTERVIEW

or more than 22 years, the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) has been evaluating the safety of passenger cars by providing consumers with an independent assessment of the safety level of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Not only does the Euro NCAP influence consumers’ purchase decisions by giving them the information they need to choose the safest cars possible, but it also encourages the carmakers to improve their safety technologies and produce safer cars. That being said, safety technologies that were non-existent or optional at the very best—such as driver and passenger airbags, side protection airbags, belt reminders, and electronic stability control—are now standard on all cars sold in Europe. Since 2017, Euro NCAP crash tests helped save more than 78,000 lives. Today, almost 95% of the cars sold on the European market hold a Euro NCAP rating and the automotive industry consistently supports the development of new requirements for the top safety ratings. For the first time since he joined the organization in 2007, Dr. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary-General of Euro NCAP, granted an in-depth interview to a Middle Eastern media outlet. He spoke to Maqina magazine about his renowned organization and the challenges that are looming large for the industry with the advent of advanced vehicle technologies. He also revealed more secrets about the future plans of the Euro NCAP and his perspective on the quality of the European cars assembled in some Middle Eastern factories, among other issues.

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To get a five-star rating, a manufacturer must not only perform excellently in safety tests, but also make safety equipment available as standard

Q. Today, many car manufacturers are implementing cutting-edge technologies aimed at reaching a death rate of zero in their cars. What is the role of Euro NCAP in helping those carmakers to implement such ambitious initiatives? Consumer ratings help car buyers make the right choice when it comes to a safe vehicle. Open, transparent, and reliable information about vehicle safety is needed to create consumer trust in the cars on sale. Euro NCAP both functions as a catalyst for the introduction of new safety technology and as an industry watchdog. Euro NCAP operates beyond legislation imposing higher requirements and evolving at a faster pace. To get a five-star rating, the vehicle manufacturer must not only perform excellently in safety tests but also make safety equipment available as standard across the EU market. Q. The number of vehicles receiving the highest safety rating is rapidly increasing; do you think this improvement has been achieved in the sector because of the strong impact of Euro NCAP, IIHS, and other international consumer test programs? Up to 95% of all new vehicle sales in Europe either have a star rating or are covered by a star rating, despite the system not being mandatory. This shows that most manufacturers selling cars in Europe have now made a good Euro NCAP star rating a part of their engineering target. Consumer programs, hence, are having a big impact on the investments made in the industry, the technologies that are prioritized, and therefore on vehicle safety as a whole. The fast evolution of safety technology is also helped by the emergence of sensing technology. Sensing has made it more and more possible to avoid and mitigate crashes. It has a higher potential to save lives over the traditional occupant protection measures such as airbags (as prevention is better than cure). Q. Well, what about the remaining 5% of new cars that are not covered by a star rating, do you usually refer to them on the Euro NCAP website and can you give us examples? I can give you some examples. Cars like Maserati, Porsche 911, Ferrari, and other super luxury cars with low sales volumes, which are also very expensive to purchase. Q. On the Euro NCAP website, there is a section that says: “up to four cars are needed for an assessment by Euro NCAP, and the latter buys these cars from dealers,” so how is this test not mandatory? Do you mean that some dealers simply don’t approve buying these cars for testing purposes? Euro NCAP does not have enough funds to test each model on the market. Each of our members is required to sponsor one model per year at least, which means that Euro NCAP can only fund about 12 model ratings per year. Since the start of the program, however, we have been allowing the OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) to sponsor testing of models for which they would like to have a rating. The fact is that most OEMs today are keen to sponsor their cars to be rated. That is the reason why we can cover such a high percentage of the market. However, it is not mandated by law to have a rating; only type-approval tests must be completed before sales can begin. The process of testing is independent of who is sponsoring, so there is no difference whether an OEM or a member is sponsoring the rating testing.

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Far-side crashes are the most commonly overlooked car safety issue that carmakers still don’t pay attention to

Q. In the Middle East, there are regional factories that assemble European cars, like the BMW factory in Egypt, if a car received an overall “five-star” rating on the Euro NCAP tests, is it theoretically possible that the same exact model variant assembled in another country outside the EU would receive a “one-star” rating? In other words, can such a gap exist, theoretically at least? I can only speak for Euro NCAP as the answer depends very much on how the safety rating is determined. It is known that locally built cars may differ from the European specification. This can be done unintentionally, for instance, when a different plant is building according to a slightly different standard. On the other hand, it’s mostly intentional, like using different metal grades for the body, a reduction in the number of welding points, etc. This is done for cost saving reasons and because the country does not have strong legal requirements on vehicle crash safety. We have seen several examples of this in Latin America where European OEMs sell “European” cars with reduced crashworthiness. The second and potentially the more significant case is where safety equipment is removed or made optional rather than being standard for the local market. Not having airbags, belt reminders, radars, and cameras installed on cars as standard would mean that the local car is not expected to perform equally well and the effective star rating is significantly less than awarded by Euro NCAP—indeed a one-star rating would not be unimaginable. To check if the Euro NCAP star rating is valid on the locally assembled cars, the first thing to do is to compare the standard safety equipment listed on our website with that of local cars. In most cases, it is not that hard to spot differences when it is related to the body; the effect of these changes to the body, however, can only be established in true crash testing. Q. In the ME, there are some calls for sending regionally assembled European cars to conduct safety tests by Euro NCAP. So, is it possible to send European cars assembled in Egypt, for example (either through the authorized dealer or individuals) to be tested and rated by Euro NCAP? Euro NCAP only tests cars available on the European market and EU typeapproved. However, many of our labs would be able to run an equivalent test program and tell you what the outcome would be in Euro NCAP stars. We could certainly support this if there was a real concern about de-specification and degrading of car models. Q. Do you mean a dealer or an individual from outside the EU can approach one of your labs to run an equivalent test program? Alternatively, does a government do this after a car collision where a specific model is involved? And, if you have previous cases, could you please mention it? In principle, any third party can sponsor tests according to Euro NCAP protocols if they had the money to do so. The lab can execute the test series and provide the data to calculate a star rating. The full documentation and rating calculator are available on our website. However, this is done without the involvement of the Euro NCAP secretariat who would normally give out the rating for a car. Warning: This would not be cheap. It would cost about 250,000 euro for the test only, in addition to offering four cars and other consumables (parts). Q. Can you give me a direct answer to this question please: If there is a car assembled in another country outside the EU using a complete knock-down (CKD) kit (no different metal grades or a reduction in welding points), and this car uses the same standard safety equipment listed on your website, the ratings can be similar to the Euro NCAP tested model? Am I right? Yes, this is correct. The star ratings of the two cars (the locally assembled and the European one) will then be identical.

122 INTERVIEW

Q. Nowadays, self-driving technologies and autonomous vehicles are dominating the automotive industry. What challenges does the latter pose in Euro NCAP ratings? Autonomous driving has been hyped up for a few years now, but all experts agree that it may take longer than expected to create a robust autonomous car technology and bring it to the market in an economically viable way. Meanwhile, we see traditional ADAS being further developed and integrated to offer semi-automated (assisted) driving functions, for instance, on the highway. Consumers should understand that these systems are still far away from automated and self-driving, and they need constant oversight. Euro NCAP has started to evaluate some of the systems—highway driving assist technology, last year—and will continue to develop tests for Level 2 and Level 3 systems going forward. Q. Tesla has recently posted a press release saying that its Model 3 has the lowest chance of injury in crash of any car the NHTSA has ever tested. Similarly, the same car got a five-star rating via Euro NCAP, can you agree with the statement that the Model 3 is the safest car the Euro NCAP has ever tested? No. I believe that NHTSA has already asked Tesla to retract this statement. Also, in Euro NCAP we normally release best in class results at the start of the year, based on the so-called overall scores achieved. If you check cars tested under the latest rating scheme to date (2018/2019), and sort the results based on overall rating, you will see that Tesla does not have the highest score so far. Audi A1, Ford Focus, and even SsangYong Korando have better overall results. However, Tesla does have the highest Safety assist score, meaning that the car has top-performing ADAS. It also offered highway pilot technology, or as you call it, semi-autonomous driving, others however are also offering this type of technology.

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No, Tesla Model 3 isn’t the safest car the Euro NCAP has ever tested. Audi A1, Ford Focus, and many other cars have better overall results

Q. Over the past two decades, what has been the most commonly overlooked car safety/equipment issue that has contributed to fatal injuries and that carmakers still don’t pay attention to? There are a few but if I may mention one, that would certainly be the farside crashes and side-impact crashes where the vehicle is hit from the side furthest away from the driver. All technology currently on the market like seat belts and curtain airbags are not really effective to avoid serious injuries in these types of crash. Far-side crashes represent 30% of all fatal side crashes. Euro NCAP will introduce a new test in 2020 to promote countermeasures for far-side impact. Q. Since the Euro NCAP was founded, have you sensed a change in consumer attitudes and trends towards its data and ratings? Of course. Twenty years ago, vehicle safety was a big concern, and consumers were skeptical about car safety. Thanks to major improvements, the attitudes have changed; complacency has even set in, as consumers now believe that all cars are safe (enough). Despite the fact that the program is much more mature and influential than two decades ago, it is harder to reach consumers and provide them with information about vehicle safety, especially those with a low level of interest in cars, as social media has gradually become the leading information channel for them. INTERVIEW 123

The ‘Beginning of a New Era’ All New MAZDA 3 Launched

ational Car Company (NCC), the sole agent for Mazda in Qatar for over 4 decades, launched the ALL NEW MAZDA 3 at a lively event held at the Doha Festival City on Thursday, 10th October, which was attended by representatives from the Media and invited guests. The new models were unveiled by the chief guest H.E. The Ambassador of Japan, Mr. Kazuo Sunaga, and Sheikh Ahmad Bin Nasser Al Thani – President Director of National Car Company. The newly launched sedan and hatchback models were on display at the mall during the weekend and received an enthusiastic response from the mall visitors .

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The New Mazda 3 Hatchback offers an emotive design, while the sedan aims to present more elegant proportions. Both the Hatchback and Sedan models feature Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0 liter engine with 6-speed automatic transmission while the SKYACTIV-G 1.5 litre engine option is also available. Speaking at the launch, Sheikh Ahmad Bin Nasser Al Thani, President Director of NCC said: “It is an important milestone for the unique Mazda brand and the National Car Company and marks “the beginning of a new era” with these new generation models which blend exquisite design with exhilarating driving dynamics.

I am sure that these premium Mazda models will delight the discerning car lovers of Qatar and set higher expectations when it comes to design, performance, safety… and above all the pleasure of driving!” New Mazda 3 was developed to inspire and create an emotional bond with its customers in two very distinct ways. A completely new design approach was taken when styling the sedan and hatchback, each embodying strikingly different personalities. Mazda’s further-evolved KODO design is skillfully applied to the sedan’s hood, cabin and trunk evoking an air of elegance and sense of sleekness. The body features a horizontal flow that accentuates the wide and low stance look, while presenting an atmosphere of serenity that would appeal to a sophisticated audience. In contrast, the Mazda 3 hatchback is meant to be sportier and more emotion oriented, featuring aggressive body sides and C-pillars that do away with traditional body lines with constantly shifting reflections. The hatchback design is topped with a roofline that suggests speed and accentuates its powerful presence. REGIONAL NEWS 125

ALFARDAN AUTOMOBILES

HOSTS QATAR MEDIA FOR EXCITING HIGHWAY DRIVE EXPERIENCE FROM DOHA TO NEW BMW AL KHOR FACILITY

eading figures from Qatar’s media stepped behind the wheel of Alfardan Automobiles most popular BMW models, including the new X7, for a unique driving tour from Doha to Al Khor.

The 50km route from Doha to Alfardan’s new Al Khor facility was the ideal opportunity to test the smooth ride, precision handling, and stunning interior luxury of each of the 7 BMW models.

Setting out from Alfardan’s West Bay showroom, the fleet of 7 BMWs embarked on a thrilling Highway Drive Experience taking in the sites of the capital city and coastal roads on the way to the newly opened BMW Al Khor Service Centre and Showroom.

Once the convoy arrived at Al Khor, the guests were invited to tour the recently opened service centre and showroom. A major milestone in Alfardan’s ambitions, the Al Khor facility will allow the official importer of BMW cars in Qatar to seamlessly deliver BMW’s premium levels of care, service and engineering to customers across the peninsula.

During the 45-minute drive from Doha to Al Khor the specially invited guests, including journalists from Qatar’s most popular newspapers and motoring magazines as well as social media personalities, influencers and bloggers, experienced the very definition of sheer driving pleasure. The parade of premium BMW vehicles consisted of a BMW X7, BMW X5, BMW X3, and BMW X2 as well as a BMW M5, BMW 3 series, and BMW 5 Series.

THE HIGHWAY DRIVE EXPERIENCE WAS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA TO DISCOVER THE PREMIUM RANGE OF BMW

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The Highway Drive Experience was the perfect opportunity for members of the media to discover the premium range of BMW motor cars from luxury X-range SAVs, ultra-high performance M5 to sporty urban sedans.

Members of the media were briefed on the high standards of design, build quality and attention to detail that went into the construction of the new facility. The final leg of the Highway Driving Experience saw the guests swap motor cars once again before a leisurely cruise to Doha before returning to Alfardan’s BMW West Bay showroom.

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REFRESHED, REFINED, AND READY TO COMMAND THE ROADS OF QATAR SALEH AL HAMAD AL MANA CO. ANNOUNCES THE ARRIVAL OF THE POWERFUL NEW 2019 NISSAN MAXIMA

aleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., the authorized distributor of Nissan in Qatar, announced the arrival of the new 2019 Nissan Maxima. Drivers can now discover exclusive enhancements to Nissan’s flagship sedan which include a sleek, sculpted, V-motioninspired exterior, new wheel designs, and a refined interior at the Nissan showrooms in Al Khor, Bin Omran, Al Sadd, and the main showroom on Salwa Road. With a commanding new attitude that combines power, safety, and seductive streamlined design, the new 2019 Maxima offers 300-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine and sport-tuned steering, braking and suspension. Add to that 19-inch diamond-cut wheels, an enlarged V-motion grille with boomerang signature LED lighting, and the Nissan Safety Shield 360 – a suite of advanced driver-assist systems that supports Nissan Intelligent Mobility. The model continues its reputation as an exciting near-luxury sports sedan that gives drivers greater freedom and confidence on the roads. Mr. Martin Aherne, General Manager Automotive, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., said: “Nissan Maxima maintains its position as the 4-door sports car. Our bold and refreshed 2019 Maxima sets a new standard for the sedan market that showcases practicality, futuristic technology, design, and an engaging experience behind the wheel. We at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. are pleased to launch this car in Qatar and happy to welcome all our customers to live this experience. Brand survey results from the region revealed positive sentiments for the Nissan Maxima. The car was voted as #1 in the sedan segment vs. competitors in areas such as personality, inspired styling, exciting to drive, trendy, good driving performance and distinctive design.

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Nissan Intelligent Mobility and Nissan Safety Shield 360 The new 2019 Maxima embraces the visionary Nissan Intelligent Mobility philosophy, which provides technology in a way that moves people to a better world. For Maxima, this includes the availability of Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of six advanced active safety and driver-assist technologies designed to help provide 360 degrees of active driver assistance, crash avoidance, and pedestrian detection. Safety Shield 360 includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. In addition to Safety Shield 360, the 2019 Maxima also expands the availability of Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). Refreshed exterior and interior The Maximaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aggressive, updated exterior appearance was created by Nissan Design America in La Jolla, California. It features a larger front grille with a deeper V-motion flow that carries into the hood and down the body to the redesigned rear tail lamps and rear fascia. The standard jewel-like LED headlights and Nissan Signature Daytime Running Lights add to the Maximaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premium, high-performance appearance, along with the new, deep fascia design. The new rear fascia includes integrated quad-tip exhaust finishers, and a new sport rear spoiler is also added to the Maxima SR grade. In addition, drivers can opt for a new premium exterior paint color, Sunset Drift.

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Inside, the dramatic Maxima body is a driver-centric cockpit and comfortable seating for all five occupants. Enhancing the Maxima’s already high level of quality and premium luxury appointments is a new seat insert pattern and charcoal headliner and pillars for SR grades. The SR grade features special Rakuda Tan semi-aniline leather appointments, similar to that available on the Nissan GT-R Premium Interior Package. The interior retains the Maxima’s “Gliding Wing” interior layout which emphasizes horizontal movement and ergonomic, easy access to all controls, but this year’s model offers updated trim finishers and materials. Different grade level offer updated instrument panel, door panels, steering wheel insert, stitching, seat materials, headliner, pillars, and A-pillar speaker grilles to provide a more premium look and feel. The 2019 Maxima also comes equipped with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, with 8-inch multi-touch color display, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System and Streaming audio via Bluetooth®. The new Maxima’s selection of audio and infotainment choices include a Bose® Premium Audio system with 11 speakers. Nissan Door to Door Navigation adds directions that move from your compatible smartphone to Maxima’s touch-screen seamlessly. And, also particularly handy for busy cities, is that if you end up parking several blocks away, the navigation system can send a walking route to your phone.

THE DRAMATIC MAXIMA BODY IS A DRIVER-CENTRIC COCKPIT AND COMFORTABLE SEATING FOR ALL FIVE OCCUPANTS

The one-line destination search simplifies the process of finding a destination by providing a single text box to search for a Point of Interest or address. Lastly, over-the-air updates allow owners to update the audio unit software and maps via WiFi or a USB device without making a trip to the dealer.

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NATIONAL CAR COMPANY INTRODUCES UNIQUE 2020 MODEL YEAR PREMIUM

MAZDA SEDANS AND SUVS

ational Car Company, the sole agent for Mazda in Qatar, has introduced the new 2020 model range of premium Mazda sedans and SUVs to the delight of car enthusiasts and buyers in Qatar. The new generation of Mazda sedans and SUVs are currently on display at the state-of-the-art showroom located in Al Nasr. Mazda team in Qatar is eagerly waiting to share the excitement by inviting the discerning customers to test drive and experience the Mazda difference. Introducing the 2020 model range, Sathish Nair – Marketing & Sales Manager – NCC said, “Each Mazda vehicle is brought to life through a sense of motion and speed, even at a complete standstill through impassioned designers and engineers. Mazda’s “soul of motion” KODO design philosophy is reflected in the sleek and aerodynamic lines breathing life into the car. The design embodies the dynamic beauty of life, the power and elegance of a wild animal in the instant when it pounces on its prey. That’s the essence of the ultimate “Motion Form” envisioned by Mazda and the reason why Mazda stands unique in a diverse marketplace.”

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ALFARDAN AUTOMOBILES OFFICIALLY REOPENS BMW FLAGSHIP REMODELED SHOWROOM AT WEST BAY AND LAUNCHES TWO EXCITING FIRST-EVER BMW MODELS

lfardan Automobiles, the official importer of BMW cars in Qatar, has officially announced the reopening of its stylish and state-of-the-art BMW remodelled flagship showroom at West Bay alongside the launch of two exciting first-ever BMW models. Offering a new, modern and customer-centric take on the complete showroom experience, the newly revamped location will connect Alfardan’s clients with the very best BMW automobiles, professionals and services. A landmark offering for Alfardan Automobiles and BMW fans in Qatar, the showroom is located in the heart of Doha’s bustling business district. It is spacious enough to house up to 30 BMW models with areas dedicated for each category, including the powerful BMW M range and luxury class models. Mr. Nasr Jairoudi, General Manager, Alfardan Automobiles, and Dr. Hamid Haqparwar, Managing Director BMW Group Middle East, officially opened the showroom in front of an audience of VIPs and invited media from Qatar and further afield. Conceptualised and created in line with BMW’s Future Retail Strategy, the showroom features a range of expertly designed features and facilities aimed at enhancing the overall customer experience. Among these premium features is a comfortable and spacious area designated to cater to clients who have purchased a new or preowned BMW. Customers also get a prestigious handover experience that sets the standard of exceptional services throughout a client’s journey with Alfardan. The showroom reopening also welcomed two new BMW models to Qatar: the first-ever BMW 8 Series M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and the first-ever BMW X4 M Competition. A powerful four-door sports car, the BMW 8 Series M850i xDrive Gran Coupe boasts impressive exterior design as well as incredible powertrain and chassis technology – all of which combine to deliver a supremely dynamic drive experience. The third model in the BMW 8 Series range, the BMW 8 Series M850i xDrive Gran Coupe has been expertly shaped by the twin goals of dynamism and elegance resulting in a BMW that perfectly represents a premium case study in modern automotive luxury.

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THE SHOWROOM FEATURES A RANGE OF EXPERTLY DESIGNED FEATURES AND FACILITIES AIMED AT ENHANCING THE OVERALL CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE The second engine variant – the BMW 8 Series 840i Gran Coupe. It outputs 340hp through a new 3.0 litre six-cylinder inline petrol engine, which weighs around six kilograms less than the engine it replaced. Representing the expansion of the high-performance BMW M model line into the SAV segment for the first time, the first-ever BMW X4 M Competition is one of BMW’s most exciting vehicle launches in recent years. It was launched globally with the BMW X3 M Competition recently, which is also expected to reach Alfardan Automobiles showrooms soon. As well as featuring the most powerful straight-six petrol engine ever seen in a BMW M car, which is capable of an astonishing output of 510hp, the BMW X4M Competition also boasts flawless power distribution thanks to the latest 8-speed M Steptronic transmission. Mr Nasr Jairoudi, General Manager, Alfardan Automobiles, said: “The opening of our newly redesigned flagship showroom at West Bay is a key milestone for Alfardan Automobiles and for BMW fans in Qatar. It was only fitting that this important occasion coincides with the launch of two of BMW’s newest and most exciting models. The exceptional BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe and BMW X4M Competition are vehicles that represent the very peak of BMW’s engineering and performance capabilities. “Our new redesigned West Bay showroom also represents a major step forward in Alfardan Automobiles’ ongoing development of the auto market in Qatar. We are thrilled to be able to showcase our renowned customer service and care offerings in such a prestigious setting.”

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“ALFARDAN SPORTS MOTORS” ORGANIZES MEDIA TOUR OF ALFA ROMEO, FIAT, AND ABARTH MOPAR SERVICE CENTER ON AL KHOR COASTAL ROAD

lfardan Sports Motors—the new authorized reseller of Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Abarth in Qatar—has organized an exclusive media tour to explore the all-new Mopar service center for the three worldrenowned Italian car brands, located on Al Khor Coastal Road. The reputable Qatar-based company which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, gave the journalists an opportunity to test drive some of the finest models in Alfa Romeo’s and Fiat’s lineup, including Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Giulia and Giulietta, along with the iconic Fiat 500 and Fiat 500 X. The test drive started in Alfardan Sports Motors’ showroom located in The PearlQatar’s Medina Centrale area, and ended at the Mopar service center a mere 20-minute drive from downtown Doha.

“ WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT OUR ALFA ROMEO, FIAT, AND ABARTH SERVICE CENTER LOCATED ON AL KHOR COASTAL ROAD WILL ENSURE OUR CAR OWNERS HAVE PEACE OF MIND AS SOON AS THEY WALK IN ” CHARLY DAGHER - GENERAL MANAGER

Mr. Charly Dagher, General Manager of Alfardan Sports Motors, gave the media representatives an exclusive tour around the world-class Mopar service center, allowing them to explore the facility’s latest diagnostic and maintenance tools that were specially manufactured to support Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Abarth vehicles’ superior engineering. Designed in line with Alfardan Sports Motors’ retail concept and customer service standards, the state-of-the-art premises includes a service reception area, a retail sales counter, a vast parking area reserved for customers, and a full package of maintenance services.

Aside from combining cutting-edge technology and excellent factory-trained technicians, Al-Khor’s Mopar service center includes a unique customer waiting area—the perfect environment for car owners to relax while their Alfa Romeo, Fiat or Abarth vehicle is serviced, while using the cozy entertainment area equipped with a ping-pong table and a few gaming consoles (PlayStation 4). For customers who don’t want to wait around, a complimentary shuttle service. From the time customers drive up to the 110-meter service reception area to the moment their car keys are returned, the skilled and dynamic staff will be there assisting them and ensuring that they are 100 percent satisfied with the treatment they receive. Better yet, the Italian brand’s customers will receive a complimentary car wash and valet service. A 150-meter spare-parts warehouse completes the five-star amenities of Al Khor’s Mopar service center.

Commenting on the media tour of Al Khor’s Mopar service center, Charly Dagher said: “One of our top priorities is to offer a world-class, high-quality service to all our customers that is in line with Alfardan Sports Motors’ vision and its invaluable experience in after sales services, especially since we recently celebrated our 20th anniversary.” Mr. Dagher added: “Alfardan Sports Motors has already won many accolades for its exemplary sales and aftersales services, which reflects its long-lasting commitment to curate exclusive experiences that go beyond clients’ expectations. We are confident that our Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and Abarth service center located on Al Khor Coastal Road will ensure our car owners have peace of mind as soon as they walk in.” The Italian brand’s loyal customers can contact us at landline number 44208750 to book their car for servicing; the service center’s working hours are from Saturday to Thursday, 9 am to 6 pm.

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The Ferrari Aftersales Service Delivering ultimate peace of mind for Prancing Horse enthusiasts

he Ferrari ownership experience is about much more than enjoying the incredible performance potential and the cutting-edge technology of the renowned brand’s diverse product range. The ownership of a Ferrari presents a unique relationship of trust that bonds Ferrari customers to the brand, providing them with ultimate peace of mind that their valuable vehicles will be taken care of by the most qualified professionals, at the most advanced state-of-the-art facilities. As the Prancing Horse takes its first gallop out of the showroom, the proud new owner is confident that from that moment onwards, their prized possession will age gracefully. Every new Ferrari comes with an exclusive seven-year free maintenance contract in addition to the standard factory three-year warranty. The Genuine Maintenance service ensures that each car is maintained to the highest standards to meet the company’s strict requirements for safety, performance and reliability. The Genuine Maintenance program includes: labour, original replacement parts, lubricants, engine oil and brake fluid. The checks are scheduled to take place once a year and are performed by highly-qualified dealer staff who have been trained at the Ferrari Training Centre in Maranello using factoryapproved dedicated diagnostic equipment. Nobody knows the unique characteristics of the various Prancing Horse models better than them.

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The first-of-its-kind maintenance package covers each individual vehicle, and thus extends to any subsequent owner during the entire seven-year period, setting an unprecedented standard throughout the industry for customer care. The program covers the scheduled maintenance at standard service intervals (20,000 km, or once a year, with no restriction on total kilometres) along with the relative original spare parts, engine oil and brake fluid. The advantage to the owner is the assurance that the vehicle will be subject to regular annual inspection by Ferrari-trained personnel using factory-approved, dedicated diagnostic equipment. Every Ferrari is assigned a dedicated Service Advisor at the local authorized dealership who is tasked with following the status of the car throughout the course of its life. The Service Advisor follows up with the owner on a regular basis to check whether the car is due for service and acts as the main point of contact for the Ferrarista in case any technical issues are encountered. Once the car arrives at the Ferrari service center, the customer is welcomed by the dealership’s staff and supported by the Service Advisor who fills the car’s Job Card. The external check is then conducted ahead of the more extensive 360 check which happens once the car is positioned on the lift in the garage.

All the details related to every Ferrari are registered on a continuous basis in the Modis Aftersales System, providing the Ferrari Service Advisors with detailed insights into each and every model. Whilst the car is at the service center, any additional required fixes covered under the warranty are carried out directly at the center without the need to consult the owner. When additional cost is required, the Service Advisor personally contacts the customer to secure approval for the job before proceeding. Following the completion of the servicing procedure, the customer is called to collect the car and another follow-up call takes place one week after to receive the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feedback. All Ferrari owners therefore feel entirely assured and safe in the knowledge that their precious vehicle is being kept in perfect working order, maintaining the highest levels of efficiency, performance and safety as the years pass. This peace of mind can be prolonged with the Extended Warranty programme, protecting the value and functional integrity of their Prancing Horse over 15 years. The world of Ferrari has been designed to cater to those who demand and expect nothing but the best, offering excellence and flair to match their carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adrenaline-pumping performance. Ferrari is committed to deliver an unrivalled automobile ownership experience for its discerning clientele through endless passion and tireless attention to detail during every stage of its Aftersales Service Program.

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ERSACE

PRESENTS A NEW COLLECTION OF EYEWEAR

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Versace presents a new collection of eyewear. The styles celebrate the heritage of the brand â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the elegant metal frames have an all-over Greek Key motif delicately laser engraved, while Medusa studs adorn bridges and temple tips. The advertising campaign imagery features modern frame shapes modelled by actor Luke Evans. The optical and sun models represent the Versace craftsmanship and range from classic pilot to modern visor silhouettes.

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OPTICAL STYLE: VE 1257 Greek Key pattern and Medusa medallion decorated temple tips characterize this optical style for men. The metal open wire construction features a “clip on” double bridge effect, while the lasered Greek Key temples are decorated with Medusa medallion tips. This optical model is presented with a gold frame, matte black metal double- bridge and temple tips.

SUN S T YLE: VE 2213 GREC AM ANI A VISOR This visor-shaped sun model boasts a clean-cut lens construction and lateral cut-outs. A Medusa medalliondécor is applied on the bridge and fine metal temples areenriched with a laser-engraved Greek Key pattern. The visor sunglasses are available in a gold color palette with gold-tone details and gray lenses.

SUN STYLE: VE 2212 GRECAMANIA PILOT A flat metal shape featuring a clean-cut lensconstruction and lateral cut-outs. The Medusa medallion on the bridge and the Greek Key laser- engraved metal temples characterize this model. The frame silhouette is available in a gold tone with gold mirror lenses, or in a dark silver with gunmetal details and gray mirror lenses.

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The Monaco got its name from the glamorous and well-known Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix. TAG Heuer is the Official Watch of the Monaco Top Cars Collection museum and has close ties to the Automobile Club de Monaco. In 1971, the Monaco shared the cinematic limelight with Steve McQueen in the movie Le Mans.

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TAG HEUER Like the race and city it’s named for, the Monaco is the epitome of elegance and prestige with a vintage flair. The world’s first automatic chronograph became legendary after Steve McQueen sported it in the classic 1970 Hollywood racing film “Le Mans.” It’s the ultime watch for those living life in the fast lane

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menwatches THE ONLY JEWELRY MAN CAN WEAR

BREITLING NAVITIMER 1 AUTOMATIC 41 LIMITED EDITION EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE MIDDLE EAST: A SOPHISTICATED INTERPRETATION OF A LEGEND

HUBLOT Big Bang Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary. The 45mm diameter houses the famous UNICO movement, a flyback chronograph that offers a 72-hour power reserve. The bezel is cut in ceramic carbon, the same material that is used for Formula 1 brake discs

AUDEMARS PIGUET NEW ROYAL OAK PERPETUAL CALENDAR IN WHITE CERAMIC

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HUBLOT CELEBRATES THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF

SCUDERIA FERRARI Big Bang Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary

Hublot, which has been a long-standing partner of Scuderia Ferrari, is proud to present the Big Bang Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary watch. This is a model that reflects the rich history and heritage of Scuderia Ferrari realized in three limited editions conceived in collaboration with the Ferrari Design Centre. These pieces illustrate the development of the materials used in car racing over the years. This is a permanent quest of both companies, as illustrated by Hublot’s motto “The Art of Fusion”. No future and no victories without innovation. It is only through technical and technological research that the two houses have been able to maintain their respective positions in their respective worlds. The 45mm diameter of each of the three editions houses the famous UNICO movement, a flyback chronograph that offers a 72-hour power reserve. Their bezel is cut in ceramic carbon, the same material that is used for Formula 1 brake discs. The first version is inspired by the early years of Scuderia Ferrari and its glorious past. The visible metal parts, the peccary leather from the bucket seats and the brushed look of the dashboard are represented here by the platinum case and the stitched perforated strap. Its dial evokes old-fashioned speedometers with its calendar underlined in yellow. In this way, it falls in-line with the purest traditions of car racing. The 3D carbon that is used to make the case of the second edition reflects the present day Scuderia Ferrari. Today, research into new composite materials and high-technology are all powerful in competition driving. Its strap is made from Nomex—the fire-resistant synthetic fibre used to make racing driver’s suits—on which the red and black stitching makes a striking contrast. Its colour code is black and red, the colours currently used by Scuderia Ferrari for its singleseater Formula 1 cars. The third model is instantly recognisable by its transparent case made from sapphire, an innovative material that is hard to work, giving it a resolutely futuristic style. It demonstrates the extreme sophistication that technology is heading towards and the possibilities it offers for the future. A promise of innovations that will apply to both car manufacture and watchmaking. Its strap adopts a highly futuristic Kevlar look. Each of the three versions of the Hublot Big Bang Scuderia Ferrari 90th Anniversary watch bears one of the three colours of the Scuderia on its border, the numbers and the index. Yellow for the platinum edition, red for the 3D carbon edition and black for the sapphire edition. All three will be produced in a limited edition of 90, and 10 ‘collector’ sets with all three watches will also be available.

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CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE

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