CAR NEWS

CAR NEWS – Latest car news around the globe.

  • JAGUAR TCS RACING REVEAL I-TYPE 6

    JAGUAR TCS RACING REVEAL I-TYPE 6 –
    JAGUAR TCS RACING REVEAL I-TYPE 6 – THE MOST ADVANCED ALL-ELECTRIC JAGUAR RACE CAR EVER

    JAGUAR TCS RACING REVEAL I-TYPE 6 – THE MOST ADVANCED ALL-ELECTRIC JAGUAR RACE CAR EVER. The Jaguar I-TYPE 6 is the most innovative and efficient electric Jaguar race car ever. It is the first FIA Formula E race automobile to feature both front and rear powertrains, as 250kW regen is added to the front and 350kW regen added at the back, doubling the regenerative capability over the Gen2 model and removing the need for conventional rear brakes.

    Starting in January 2023, the Gen3 era of Formula E will bring faster and more exciting wheel-to-wheel racing on street circuits across the world. Pioneering new cutting-edge technologies, the third generation of Jaguar’s Formula E race car will set new performance benchmarks: 50kg lighter and 100kW more powerful than the cars that have preceded it, and now capable of reaching a maximum speed of 200mph.

    Jaguar TCS Racing head into the 2023 season with a new, distinctive identity. The compelling colour palette features carbon black, satin white and sophisticated gold accents, with the asymmetric design of the Jaguar I-TYPE 6 livery creating two unique cars for drivers Mitch Evans and Sam Bird. Uniquely in Formula E, the Jaguar driver line-up remains the same for the third consecutive season bringing valuable consistency.

    The next generation of Formula E will continue to be a real-world test bed for Jaguar TCS Racing and Jaguar Land Rover, as the team develops and innovates new cutting-edge technology to compete for World Championship success, it will power important race-to-road learning for electric powertrain, sustainability and software technologies.

    Innovation and technology transfer from the Jaguar I-TYPE 6 will directly enable the reimagination of Jaguar as an all-electric, modern luxury brand from 2025. Racing in a zero-emission motorsport category with the world’s most sustainable race car showcases Jaguar Land Rover’s own commitment to have zero tailpipe emissions and to achieve carbon net zero across its supply chain, products and operations by 2039 as part of its Reimagine strategy.

    Jaguar TCS Racing are entering the 2023 season having recently been awarded FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest possible rating. It confirms that the team demonstrate best practice and commitment in environmental management, while continuously striving to improve existing processes.

    Wolfspeed Official Power Semiconductor Partner

    Ahead of the 2023 championship, Wolfspeed has been confirmed as Official Power Semiconductor Partner. The partnership builds on Wolfspeed’s existing relationship with the team since 2017, where its advanced Silicon Carbide technology has been used to accelerate on-track efficiency and performance.

    It comes as Jaguar Land Rover also recently announced a strategic partnership with Wolfspeed, securing supply of Silicon Carbide semiconductors for the next generation of electric vehicle inverters. Both partnerships will support the technology and knowledge transfer from race-to-road with a particular focus on efficiency.  

    After two successful years with the team, Micro Focus is renewing its partnership as Official Technical Partner. Its world-class software and services, such as IDOL and Vertica Analytics Platform, are embedded into the team’s operations, enabling them to collect and process vast amounts of data, creating more accurate predictions and time-critical decisions during races, which leads to more points, podiums and wins for the team.

    Wolfspeed and Micro Focus join an existing portfolio of world-class partners made up of global IT services, consulting and business solutions organisation Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which continues its multi-year title sponsorship of the team. In addition, GKN Automotive, Dow, and Castrol, and suppliers Alpinestars and Uncommon are connected in the pursuit of performance and innovation for Jaguar TCS Racing.

    This is the first season that Jaguar will supply its successful powertrain technology to fellow British-based team Envision Racing, meaning there will be four Jaguar powered Formula E cars on the grid.

    Jaguar TCS Racing will race in Mexico City, on 14 January 2023 for the first of 17 races in 12 cities.

    After Jaguar TCS Racing’s biggest points haul to date last season in Formula E, with Mitch Evans finishing runner-up in the Drivers’ World Championship, the British team are working hard to once again fight for the World Championship title in 2023.

    “Launch day is always a proud and exciting moment for Jaguar TCS Racing, and this year more than ever, as we head into the Gen3 era of Formula E.

    “Season 9 is set to be the most competitive and thrilling season to date, with an all-new all-electric race car, the Jaguar I-TYPE 6, iconic cities added to the calendar and our new team design has transformed the car into a work of art, in harmony with our modern luxury vision for Jaguar.

    “We’re very excited to welcome Wolfspeed to the team as our Official Power Semiconductor Partner. Their expertise in Silicon Carbide technology will play a pivotal role in our powertrain performance.

    “With our Title Partner, Tata Consultancy Services, alongside new and existing organisations, we have a formidable portfolio of partners, each supporting the team and applying their expertise to accelerate relevant sustainable technologies. As we head into our seventh season in Formula E, I have been reflecting on how far we have come as a team. Jaguar TCS Racing has a vital role to fulfil beyond the success of the racetrack, and it remains a privilege to play our part supporting the reimagination of Jaguar as an all-electric brand from 2025.

    I am incredibly proud of what we achieved last season, we had our biggest points haul to date, but we know we can do better, and we are here to compete for the World Championship. We are confident in the Jaguar I-TYPE 6 and in the strength of our talented team and I look forward to what this season will bring. ”

    James Barclay – Jaguar TCS Racing Team Principal

    “Last season was my best to date, finishing runner-up in the Drivers’ World Championship, so we are determined to do one better this season. The new Jaguar I-TYPE 6 gives us a lot more to play with, with more power and speed, and the team and I have been working tirelessly to make sure we maximise this effectively to use it to our advantage. Formula E is such a competitive category, but I can’t wait for the season to get underway in January and fight to win both the Drivers’ and Teams’ World Championship. ”

    Mitch Evans, Jaguar TCS Racing driver #9

    “Last season was full of ups and downs for me, and I couldn’t finish the season due to injury. I’ve taken the off-season to reset, come back stronger and I’m hungrier than ever to do well for the team. We’ve been focusing all our efforts into the Jaguar I-TYPE 6, and I’m really looking forward to getting back out there for my third season with the team and showing everyone what we can do. ”

    Sam Bird, Jaguar TCS Racing driver #10

    “Wolfspeed is proud to strengthen our relationship with Jaguar Land Rover by serving as the Official Power Semiconductor Partner for Jaguar TCS Racing. Our Silicon Carbide semiconductor technology in the Jaguar I-TYPE 6 creates an ‘Innovation Lab on Wheels’ to engineer improved powertrain efficiency in a high-performance electric vehicle. Our collaboration with Jaguar TCS Racing in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will support our shared goal of translating innovation from the race to the road and enable Wolfspeed to support Jaguar TCS Racing as the ultimate competitor on the track.”

    -Jay Cameron, Wolfspeed Senior Vice President and General Manager, Power Business
  • Nissan launches the all-new 2023 Serena in Japan

    Nissan launches the all-new Serena in Japan
    Nissan launches the all-new Serena in Japan

    Nissan launches the all-new 2023 Serena in Japan – Nissan launched the fully-revamped Serena in Japan today with sales of gasoline-powered models starting this winter, and Serena e-POWER models are to start in spring.

    Since it’s unveiling in 1991, the Serena has always been in close touch with the changing forms and need of families. With the notion from the beginning being “Big, Easy, Fun”, the all-new 2023 Serena is armed with spacious seating, convenient utilities and the latest in cutting-edge technologies.

    “We have planned and developed the new Serena so that the whole family can spend their precious time together, having great fun,”

    Nissan Executive Vice President Asako Hoshino.

    Advanced technologies

    • The Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now armed with an all-new, specially developed 1.4 L engine. The system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
    • ProPILOT 2.0*1 advanced driver assistance system comes on the highest e-POWER grade, the Luxion—the first time*2 such a system that enables hands-off driving (in a single lane on a highway at speeds of 40 km/h or above) has been adopted in a minivan*3 in Japan. For all other grades, ProPILOT has now been made standard. This driver assistance technology helps reduce driver fatigue on long road trips.
    • The Luxion is armed with ProPILOT Park with memory, which records and recognizes parking space lines, marking the first time this technology has been adopted on a Nissan vehicle. The Luxion also has ProPILOT Remote Park.
    • Steering assist with forward collision avoidance supports steering when avoiding obstacles in front of the vehicle. This technology is also a Nissan first.

    Second-generation e-POWER creates a quiet cabin, making conversation easier

    • The Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now fortified with an all-new, specially developed 1.4 L engine. The system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
    • The Serena is also fortified with world-first, energy management technology*4 that controls when the engine turns on and off in accordance with vehicle speed, traffic conditions and the navigation system. Reduced engine operation contributes to a quieter cabin.
    • Enhanced insulation further contributes to a quieter cabin, resulting in an easy conversation space, even for rear-seat passengers.

    Science-based approach to reducing motion-sickness

    Various design and packaging approaches have been taken with the aim of reducing motion-sickness. These include:

    • A wide, open view from inside the vehicle and an optimal display monitor positioning
    • All-new seat design that dampens occupant movement
    • A highly rigid steering wheel enhances handling stability
    • A vehicle structure that deflects crosswinds and reduces shakiness at high speeds
    • The second-generation e-POWER system and tighter suspension enable smoother vehicle body movement
    • e-Pedal Step, which allows the driver to control vehicle speed by just using the accelerator

    A friendly design with premium quality and sense of innovation

    • A modern touch has been added to the exterior design. For Luxion and Highway Star grades, the exterior design is finished to evoke the dynamic and powerful performance of the vehicle. All lamps are now LED.
    • Close attention has been given to interior:
      ・The windshield is the widest in the minivan category in the market*3.
      ・As a first for Nissan, the all-new Serena features a switch-type shift for smart looks and ease-of-use.
      ・The seat material is water-repellent, a family friendly feature.
    • 14 body colors are available, including four two-tone combinations.

    Convenient family features

    The most spacious cabin in the minivan category*3 enables all on board to stretch out and relax.

    • 120 mm of addional driver legroom compared to the previous generation.
    • A multi-purpose center seat in the second row allows the vehicle to carry seven or eight passengers*5.
    • The dual rear door allows easy loading and unloading, even in small parking spaces. When needed, just the small back door at the top can be used. The side passenger door comes with the hands-free, auto-open function.
    • Pockets for smartphones and wallets are now now in easy reach for every seat. Other useful features include: Holders that can accommodate a 500 ml cardoard carton, USB ports, onboard Wi-Fi, and a pre-cooling air conditioning system*6.
    • Air conditioning can be controlled by a simple, intuitive and innovatively designed touch panel, with independent controls for the driver’s seat, passenger seat and rear seats.
    • An optional 100V AC power source (1500 W) is available for e-POWER models, which can be used to operate electric appliances when outdoor or as a power source, especially helpful in emergencies.

    Japan nationwide recommended retail price (including consumption tax)

    *1 Subscription to the NissanConnect ProPILOT plan is required

    *2 Nissan survey; as of November 2022

    *3 Nissan survey; as of November 2022. Minivan definition used: 1.2 – 2.0 L class 7/8-seat vehicle with overall height over 1.8 m

    *4 Nissan survey; as of November 2022. The technology controls battery charge and discharge to maintain electric-only driving (no engine operation) near the destination, by using information from the navigation system

    *5 The e-POWER Luxion is a 7-seater

    *6 Onboard Wi-Fi and air conditioning pre-cooling need NissanConnect services subscription.

    Note: Features may be available only for certain grades or factory-installed options.

  • The all-new 2023 Honda Pilot

    America’s Rugged and Sophisticated Family SUV, All-New 2023 Honda Pilot, Arriving at Dealerships in December
    America’s Rugged and Sophisticated Family SUV, All-New 2023 Honda Pilot, Arriving at Dealerships in December

    The all-new 2023 Honda Pilot, the largest and most authoritative SUV in Honda history, will go on-sale Dec. 12. Offering a class-leading blend of off-road capability and nimble on-road dynamics, the fourth-generation Pilot is the ultimate family SUV with rugged new styling, and more passenger and cargo space.

    Pilot’s five well-equipped trim levels include the new Pilot TrailSport, the most rugged and off-road capable Honda SUV ever, with special off-road features engineered to get weekend adventurers even further off the beaten path.

    Pilot’s Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) begins with the Pilot Sport at $39,1501 (excluding $1,295 destination charge).

    “We’ve reengineered the all-new Honda Pilot from the ground up to set a new benchmark in the midsize 3-row SUV class. With more space, power and capability, the new Pilot is more rugged than ever and ready for that next great family adventure.”

    Lance Woelfer, assistant vice president, Honda National Auto Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

    Exceptionally Well-Equipped

    Designed and developed in the United States of America, the 2023 Pilot lineup starts with the very well-equipped Sport, which comes with Honda’s all-new 3.5-liter V6 that debuts on Pilot, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that has been tuned exclusively for Pilot. The mixture is smooth and responsive, with 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm (both SAE net). A new standard Hill Descent Control system enhances Pilot’s off-road capability.

    A new easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen audio system is standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, physical volume and tuning knobs and a simplified menu structure. Partial digital instrumentation, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, LED headlights and Shark Gray 7-spoke 20-inch wheels are also standard.

    Pilot EX-L builds on the Sport’s equipment with leather seats and a standard 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a simplified menu structure. Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging, an upgraded 9-speaker audio system and a power tailgate are all standard. EX-L also adds exterior flash with chrome trim and grille bar and machined 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels.

    The new Pilot TrailSport conveys even more off-road capability to the Pilot lineup. Exclusive rugged hardware consist of an off-road tuned suspension with an additional inch of ground clearance, robust steel skid plates to better protect the underbody from damage on the trail and expanded all-wheel drive capabilities.

    Pilot TrailSport is also the first Honda SUV with all-terrain tires for improved off-road traction. TrailSport’s unique 18-inch wheels have a rugged look and are carefully designed to reduce the likelihood of trail damage.

    A new TrailWatch camera system (also standard on Elite) uses four exterior cameras and four camera views to help drivers navigate off-road obstacles.

    Exclusive to TrailSport, a new available Diffused Sky Blue paint color highlights its rugged design and adventurous spirit. In the cabin, TrailSport stands out with rugged details including exclusive orange contrast stitching, all-season floor mats with TrailSport logos, and head restraints embroidered with the TrailSport logo. A sliding panoramic sunroof is also standard.

    For a higher level of versatility,Pilot Touring adds on-demand 8-occupant flexibility (also standard on Elite). In the second row, a first-in-class multi-function removable middle seat can be conveniently stored underneath the rear cargo floor instead of being left at home in the garage. Families then have the seat available if they need it later in their journey, providing owners three distinct seating options on demand. Pilot is the only truck in its class with 8-occupant seating and an opening panoramic sunroof.

    A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system custom-engineered for the new interior delivers a concert-quality listening experience. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability are also standard.

    Pilot Elite tops the lineup with standard all-wheel drive, and additional interior features and functions including perforated leather seat inserts, ventilated front seats, a configurable 10.2-inch digital instrument display, a color head-up display, and a multi-view camera system with a 360-degree view.

    Touring and Elite also receive premium exterior finishes, including a gloss black grille mesh and B-pillar, dual chrome exhaust garnish and distinct 7-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels with a machined-finish.

    Stronger, Safer and More Capable

    Every 2023 Pilot benefits from extensive improvements to the body, chassis and powertrain, safety technology, and overall driving refinement. A sportier and more engaging driving experience was created through an all-new chassis and Pilot’s stiffest body structure ever. The extremely rigid platform was engineered with TrailSport’s true off-road capabilities in mind from the beginning, which also benefits the ride, handling and overall refinement of the entire Pilot lineup.

    Pilot also introduces the second generation of Honda’s award-winning torque vectoring i-VTM4™ all-wheel drive system, which is available on all grades and standard on TrailSport and Elite. The new and more capable i-VTM4 system features a stronger rear differential that can handle 40% more torque and provides 30% faster response, optimizing traction in all driving scenarios, especially slick conditions and off-road.

    Five standard selectable drive modes optimize the driving experience for various conditions: Normal, Econ, Snow, plus new Sport and Tow modes. EX-L models and above (with all-wheel drive) also feature a Sand mode and a new Trail mode which optimize Pilot’s off-road capabilities.

    In addition, all 2023 Pilots come standard with an expanded Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technologies that includes Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) have been updated to feature more natural responses. A rear seat reminder and rear seatbelt reminder are also new and standard across the lineup.

    Special Option Packages

    Available for the first time on Pilot, a new HPD Package takes Pilot’s rugged new styling even further. Developed in collaboration with Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda’s U.S.-based racing company, the HPD Package adds fender flares, aggressive bronze- or black-colored wheels and special HPD graphics ($2,950). Available on all Pilot trims, it’s one of several new post-production option packages that include Protection ($290), Function ($405) and Tow ($305 – $990).

    Additional details on the all-new 2023 Honda Pilot are available here on Hondanews.com.

    Pilot Manufacturing

    The new fourth-generation Pilot and Pilot TrailSport will continue to be built in America*, exclusively at the Honda Alabama Auto Plant in Lincoln, Alabama, continuing the 40-year legacy of Honda’s commitment to build products close to the customer. Since 2006, Honda has produced more than 2 million Pilots in the U.S. 
    * using domestic and globally-sourced parts

  • Ghana’s Parliament approves removal of Luxury Vehicles Tax

    Ghana’s Parliament approves removal of Luxury Vehicles Tax
    Ghana’s Parliament

    Ghana’s Parliament approves removal of Luxury Vehicles Tax – Ghanaʼs Parliament has passed the Luxury Vehicle Levy (Repeal) Bill, to scrap the taxes on luxury vehicles introduced by the government in 2018. This Bill gives effect to one of the policy measures announced in the Mid-year review by Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta on Monday.

    The levy was introduced during the 2018 mid-year budget review, which took effect in August 2018 despite opposition from various groups. The tax which mandated owners of luxury vehicles with engine capacities of 3 litres or more, to pay an annual tax on their vehicles.

    Vehicles with engine capacities of 3.0 – 3.5 litres were to pay an annual tax of GH¢1,000.00; those with engine capacities of 3.6 – 4.0 litres will pay GH¢1,500.00 annually and 4.1 litres and above are to pay an annual tax of GH¢2000.00. However, the implementation was greeted with a series of protests by owners and dealers in vehicles with engine capacity of 3.0 and beyond with a call on the Ghana government to rethink the tax.

    Earlier this week, Mr Ofori-Atta told Parliament, the government had “noted suggestions from the general public on the implementation of this tax” and proposed its withdrawal only a year after implementation.

    Earlier this month, the Minority in Parliament demanded the removal of the luxury vehicle tax which it deems as “economically inefficient.” Government had projected a GH¢136.53 million revenue from the tax, but revenue collected in the first quarter of 2019 yielded only GH¢30.19 million.

  • REVEALED – NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT WITH EPIC SPILLWAY CLIMB

    REVEALED – NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT
    NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT

    REVEALED – NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT WITH EPIC SPILLWAY CLIMB; – The New Range Rover Sport made its global debut with a dramatic world-first climb up a flooded 193m dam spillway in Iceland.

    The epic ascent saw the New Range Rover Sport repel the surging torrent of water flowing down the ramp of the Karahnjukar Dam in Iceland;  the biggest of its kind in the world at a rate of 750 tonnes per minute. A loss of traction risked plunging down the perilous 90m drop at the base of the spillway to the valley floor below.

    The third generation of Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV is the most wanted, technologically advanced and capable yet, mixing a commanding road presence with instinctive driving responses using the most advanced combination of chassis technologies ever fitted to a Land Rover.

    The prosperous spillway ascent was screened for the first time at a special debut event at Jaguar Land Rover’s Advanced Product Creation Centre in Gaydon, United Kingdom. Certified James Bond stunt driver Jessica Hawkins was behind the steering wheel as the New Range Rover Sport demonstrated its grip, traction, performance and composure, completing the latest in a series of challenges for Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV. Previous achievements include a record-setting hill-climb at Pikes Peak, a first recorded crossing of the ‘Empty Quarter’ desert in the Arabian Peninsula and a first ascent of the 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate in China, in 2018.

    Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover, said:-

    “Land Rover’s pioneering MLA-Flex architecture and the latest chassis systems come together to deliver the highest levels of dynamism we’ve ever seen on Range Rover Sport. Integrated Chassis Control governs the comprehensive suite of innovations, co-ordinating everything from the latest switchable-volume air suspension system to our Dynamic Response Pro electronic active roll control. The result is the most engaging and thrilling Range Rover Sport ever.”

    Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover

    The spillway climb was the final obstacle on the drive from the valley floor to the summit of the dam, taking in a flooded riverbed, long steep tunnels and the 40-degree rocky dam wall itself. The 294m stretch of spillway had water furiously cascading down its 90-metre drop, to provide the ultimate test of traction and driver confidence.

    Jessica Hawkins, Stunt Driver, said:-

    “The power of the water surging down the spillway was breath-taking from the side of the valley. Driving into it knowing that a 90-metre drop was waiting behind me at the bottom of the slope, if things went wrong, made this the most challenging drive I’ve ever undertaken. Despite the steep slope and rushing water, New Range Rover Sport made it look easy. Its traction, composure and commanding visibility inspired so much confidence I was able to enjoy the whole experience.”  

    Jessica Hawkins, Stunt Driver

    New Range Rover Sport is based on Land Rover’s advanced, flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA-Flex), which offers the perfect foundations for its superior dynamics and peerless refinement. Its line-up of powerful and efficient powertrains includes two six-cylinder extended range Electric Hybrid plug-ins, which offer a pure-electric driving range of up to 113km (70 miles) and CO2 emissions as low as 18g/km1.

    The new 530PS V8 Twin Turbo delivers sports vehicle performance, with 0-100km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds (0-60mph in 4.3 seconds) with Dynamic Launch engaged. Patrons can also choose from powerful and efficient mild hybrid petrol and diesel Ingenium engines, while pure-electric propulsion will be available in 2024, as Land Rover carry on its electrification journey.

    Assertive modern design

    Dramatic proportions accentuate the Range Rover Sport’s emotive design with taut surfacing, a dynamic stance and instantly recognizable profile, perfectly accentuated by its muscular proportions – giving the impression the vehicle is poised and ready.

    Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Range Rover, said: –

    “Our latest Range Rover Sport embraces fully our modernist approach of vehicle design whilst amplifying its unquestionable sporting and confident character”

    Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Range Rover

    New Range Rover Sport’s reductive design spreads to its all-new interior. Containing a new cockpit-like interpretation of the trademark Range Rover Command Driving Position, the latest convenience and driver assistance technologies and finest materials combine to ensure every drive is an experience to savour. 

    Engaging on every journey

    A comprehensive dynamic toolkit combines for the most engaging and dynamically capable driving experience, based around the inherent strength of the flexible mixed-metal MLA body architecture. A suite of technologies administered by Land Rover’s Integrated Chassis Control system work in harmony to provide instinctive responses and agility.

    A new Stormer Handling Pack provides the ultimate combination of chassis technologies for the most dynamic and agile handling and includes Dynamic Response Pro, All-Wheel Steering, an Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking, and Configurable Programmes.

    Dynamic Response Pro is a 48-volt electronic active roll control system, capable of applying up to 1,400Nm of torque across each axle, for a confidence-inspiring driving experience and new levels of body control and cornering composure, while All-Wheel Steering helps achieve unrivalled agility and maneuverability at low speeds, with superior stability at high speeds.

    Dynamic Air Suspension introduces switchable-volume air springs for the first time and is fitted to every New Range Rover Sport. The intelligent system enhances the bandwidth of the suspension by varying the pressure within the airbags to deliver traditional Range Rover comfort with the dynamic handling expected from the Range Rover Sport. To optimize responses, the automobile monitors the road ahead using eHorizon navigation data to pre-emptively prime the vehicle for upcoming bends.

    Epitome of sporting luxury

    New Range Rover Sport makes every journey an event and can be honed to be as dynamically engaging as the driver desires, while also offering enhanced levels of refinement and comfort. This ability to combine dual features is made possible by a comprehensive set of technologies.

    The advanced Cabin Air Purification Pro system produces and upholds the optimum interior environment for wellbeing and alertness, while a selection of powerful Meridian audio options is available. The Meridian Signature Sound System is the most advanced and powerful audio system ever fitted to a Range Rover Sport, with up to 29 speakers plus four headrest speakers to create personal sound zones for the four main cabin occupants. Next-generation Active Noise Cancellationplays its part here, reducing the number of external sounds entering the cabin for ultimate cabin refinement.

    Seamless technology

    Land Rover’s powerful Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) supports an ecosystem of seamless connected technologies, including Software Over T he  Air (SOTA). The clever technology provides remote updates for 63 electronic modules, ensuring New Range Rover Sport remains at the cutting edge of innovation, modern technology and services throughout its life.

    The award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment features a high resolution floating 13.1-inch haptic touchscreen positioned at the center of the modernist dashboard. Controlling everything from navigation to media and vehicle settings, it learns the user’s habits and intelligently personalizes the onboard experience, becoming a truly intuitive personal assistant.

    Amazon Alexa brings a new level of convenience, providing the ability to control various settings and features using natural voice commands while reducing the potential for distraction. Alexa is embedded in Pivi Pro and the clever voice AI even integrates the use of Alexa devices in the home via the Land Rover smartphone app and Remote Skills.

    Peerless capability

    New Range Rover Sport is the most dynamically capable version of Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV and the most competent away from paved roads, using the latest Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) and integrating Land Rover’s latest all-terrain innovations and technologies to ensure its breadth of dynamic capability.

    Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control makes its debut on New Range Rover Sport and helps drivers navigate tricky terrain by maintaining steady progress according to the ground conditions. Drivers can select one of four comfort settings and the system intelligently adjusts the speed, allowing the driver to focus on steering the vehicle. 

    New Range Rover Sport will be exclusively produced at the Solihull Manufacturing Facility in the UK, the historic home of Range Rover production, alongside New Range Rover.

  • President of Ghana commissions a US$ 9-million Nissan’s state-of-the art Navara assembly plant at Tema

    President of Ghana commissions a US$ 9-million Nissan’s state-of-the art Navara assembly plant at Tema
    President of Ghana commissions a US$ 9-million Nissan’s state-of-the art Navara assembly plant at Tema

    President of Ghana commissions a US$ 9-million Nissan’s state-of-the art Navara assembly plant at Tema – The president of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, officially commissioned the brand-new state of the art Nissan Navara assembly plant in Tema in the Greater Accra Region.

    The Nissan Navara assembly plant is the highest of a journey that started in 2018 when Nissan became the first mover in Ghana to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Ghanaian government to work towards creating the Ghana Automotive Development Policy.

    Nissan designated Japan Motors, one of its two long standing distributors in Ghana, as its certified assembler in 2020. Work on the 5000 sq.m plant began shortly afterwards and today, 17 months later, the plant was officially opened by president Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo as the first Nissan Navaras began rolling off the assembly lines.

    Speaking at the Nissan Assembly Plant’s opening, President Nana Akufo-Addo stated that the importation of motor and transport vehicles constitutes the leading import into Ghana, estimated at $1.5 billion annually. He noted the emergence Covid-19, has emphasized the need for Ghana to be self-reliant and produce domestically.

    “Today marks yet another important mile stone I our quest to make Ghana a new manufacturing hub for Africa, in particular, realise our vision of becoming a leading player in the automobile industry in Africa. I’m delighted that in the automobile sector, we have attracted investment from a number of global iconic brands,”

    – President Nana Akufo-Addo

    He said the presence of the facility comes to support the industrial transformation agenda to diversify the economy.

    Nana Akufo-Addo noted Ghana government identifies that the establishment of assembly plant alone does not create the significance deployment opportunities expected from the automotive industry.

    In this regard, he added –

    “The elaboration of a comprehensive complement and supply development program by the Trade Ministry to support local production of component and parts for the automobile industry.”

    – President Nana Akufo-Addo

    The President further added that the component manufacturing policy that will provide targeted incentive to attract various investors to manufacture domestically components and parts is being developed.

    “The rolling out of this policy will lead to harnessing the capacity of local value chained actors particularly technicians, operating in the Suame Magazine, Abosey kai and others across the country to play critical role in component manufacturing and supply development program”

    – President Nana Akufo-Addo

    President Akufo-Addo further indicated that three other vehicle manufacturers, namely Hyundai, KIA and Renault will embark commercial production this year.

    Present at the opening was Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, who said the facility, will create the needed jobs for Ghanaians and that the growth of the automobile industry will also attract foreign direct investment.

    “We believe that this is just not going to bring investment in the auto industry into our country but will bring other investments,”

    – Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen

    The new state-of-the-art Nissan assembly plant has the capacity to assemble 5,000 new automobiles annually and will also produce Peugeot vehicles.

    Nissan Africa managing director, Mike Whitfield, said it was an incredible joyous and emotional experience.

    “Less than eight months ago, the Nissan plant in Rosslyn South Africa passed its final test to be given the green light to start manufacturing the all new “built of more’ Nissan Navara. Right at that time, a key group from this plant graduated in the same plant, having received extensive and intensive training on the assembling of these vehicles. Just over a month ago, this brand-new assembly plant passed its own final test – the very same one that the Rosslyn plant had to pass because in the world of Nissan there is only one standard – it is Nissan’s. I can tell you all, without any fear of contradiction, that this is the most modern, most state-of the art plant anywhere in West Africa.”

    – Nissan Africa Managing Director, Mike Whitfield

    The plant, he said, was proof of the fantastic public private partnership between the government of Ghana, Japan Motors and Nissan Africa.

    “The existence of this plant is tribute to the passion and commitment of Japan Motors investing US$ 9-million, which in itself would not have been possible without the security and certainty offered by the government of Ghana’s progressive automotive industry development policy which was signed into law in record time. Ghana today stands as a benchmark for the African automotive industry, an example of what can be done when there is a will and a vision.”

    Japan Motors MD, Salem Kalmoni

    Japan Motors MD, Salem Kalmoni, whose grandfather began what would become Japan Motors 100 years ago, said the US $9-million investment was proof of his family’s commitment to the country and the government, creating jobs and opportunities in the country.

    “To borrow from the Minister of Trade and Industry Alan Kyerematen; we have indeed “put our skin into it’.”

    Kalmoni said he hoped that the government would now fully implement the Ghana Automotive Development Policy, after having identified vehicle assembly and automotive component manufacturing as a strategic anchor industry for its Ten Point Plan for Ghana’s industrial development.

    Whitfield paid tribute too to Nissan’s other distributor in Ghana, APL Nissan;-

    “I am grateful too today for our continued friendship and association with Subhi Accad and his company APL Nissan Ghana, who together with Japan Motors are Nissan’s two sole distributors in Ghana. I have no doubt that together these two companies will put Nissan right back up as the top selling automotive brand in Ghana once more.”

    Nissan Africa Managing Director, Mike Whitfield
  • Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle Launched in Ghana

    Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle Launched in Ghana
    Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle Launched in Ghana

    Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle Launched in Ghana; assembling of Peugeot vehicles in Ghana to begin in March 2022

    Disclosing at the unveiling of the all new Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up automobile at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Chief Executive of Silver Star Auto, Asad Nazir, labelled the launch as a historic milestone for partners to deepen their strategic proposition to a quality automobile industry in Ghana.

    Stelantis Group will assemble both cars by Silver Star within six months from today (March 2022). We believe the environment for automobile industry is an enormous opportunity for us to expand and provide the best for the Ghanaian and West African market.

    -Asad Nazir, Chief Executive Officer, Silver Star Auto

    Speaking at the Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up launch, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi enlightened that Ghana governments automotive development programme will give equipment manufacturers access to regional and continental trade opportunities.

    To provide opportunities for higher value addition and highly skilled employment, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has developed a comprehensive package of incentives and policy measures to support the establishment of an automotive assembly and component manufacturing industry, as a strategic anchor of industrialization and a new pillar of growth in Ghana.

    Michael Okyere Baafi, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry

    Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 vehicle

    The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK marks the revitalization of the PEUGEOT Pick-up and includes all the brands best strengths.

    This new Pick-up truck finalizes a range of commercial automobiles from the PEUGEOT brand, which has been famous for its robustness and its adaptation to customer usages across the African continent for nearly a century.

    It enables Peugeot to make a tough comeback on the African market where the brand has a very strong heritage powered by its numerous racing victories, and it personifies the DNA of legendary models such as the 404 wagon and the 504 Pick-up truck.

    The new Peugeot Landtrek 4×4 has 1.9L (150HP) Engine, 4×4 Hill Descent Control Radio, Disclaimer MP3, Bluetooth, USB with 4 speakers Heavy Duty Eliptic Leaf Spring rear Suspension.

    The Peugeot brand is becoming progressively more global with the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK, which is entering the One Ton Pick-up segment with the goal of becoming a new reference in a market that represents around 300,000 annual sales units in the Middle East Africa region.

    The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK is available in three body styles: double and single cab as well as a chassis cab suitable for different conversions.

    It has the most accommodating body in its classification and an adaptability that is unique in the segment. It offers faultless crossing performance and meets both professional and family needs, with a payload that can exceed one tonne and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons.

    When designing the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK, particular attention was paid to reliability, robustness and ease of repair, which are among the main prospects of commercial vehicle customers.

    The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK automobile will be obtainable in more than 180 PEUGEOT sales outlets throughout the region, with highly trained sales staff and technicians.

    As for spare parts, they will be accessible at a competitive price with a service rate of over 90% thanks to the Brands partner networks.

    The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK includes all the essential elements of the segment, and makes it possible to fulfill all the expectations and cover the wide variety of the markets on the African continent, thanks to the breadth of its range.

    It is available in three silhouettes (Single Cab, Double Cab and Chassis Cab), in Petrol and Diesel, with manual or automatic gearboxes, and has fantastic crossing capacities with two or four wheel drive transmissions.

    The PEUGEOT LANDTREK offers up to three tons of towing capacity and a payload that exceeds 1t and can even reach 1.2t on some versions and has the most accommodating cargo bed in the segment!

    In terms of comfort, the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK comes with state-of-the-art on-board technology, advanced adaptability and SUV-like driving pleasure.

    Joseph Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, a former Member of Parliament for Tema East and a former Deputy Minister of Transport, being the first Ghanaian to purchase the new Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle.

    I feel very special, Titus Glover expressed. We tried the first brand, we work in the mines and so far, so good. And I think this is going to give us more luxury. 25 years of my life, Ive been driving Peugeot and they are efficient.

    – Joseph Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, former Member of Parliament for Tema East & former Deputy Minister of Transport
  • All New Nissan Navara 2021: built in Africa for Africa

    All New Nissan Navara 2021: built in Africa for Africa
    Nissan Navara 2021 pickup

    All New Nissan Navara 2021: built in Africa for Africa – The all new Nissan Navara 2021 pickup will be one of the few mass-market automobiles to be produced in Africa for Africans and will be available in 2021 after its debuts. Kabelo Rabotho, Country Director, Nissan South Africa and Sub-Sahara Africa, disclosed that the All New Nissan Navara 2021 will brag of features preferably fit to the rugged strains positioned on light commercial vehicles (LCVs) operating on – and off – the Africa’s roads.

    Rabotho further added that-

    “For the first time in history, the full model line-up of the next generation Navara will be produced on home soil, made in Africa for Africans. I am immensely proud that we have overcome adversity and the effects of COVID-19 to reach this milestone and bring this amazing pickup to Africa.”

    The Nissan Navara 2021 model will be produced at Nissan’s plant in Rosslyn, South Africa and also assembled in Accra, Ghana in corporation with long-time Nissan purveyor Japan Motors. Nigeria will be a key marketplace, thanks to the nation’s established automotive industry and strong craving for Nissan automobiles.

    All new Nissan Navara: built in Africa for Africa

    Kabelo Rabotho disclosed that the above factors and Nissan’s 3-billion-rand ($195-million) investment in the Rosslyn manufacturing plant demonstrated its assurance to actively pursuing the Nissan NEXT transformation plan in Africa.

    “Africa is a critical region for Nissan. Africa is one of the fastest-growing territories for the company globally in terms of Total Industry Volume (TIV), therefore Nissan will continue to enhance its product offering through vehicles like the Navara as well as footprint throughout the region,

    Kabelo Rabotho

     “The wealth of features perfectly suited to African conditions combined with Nissan’s considerable investment in manufacturing capacity demonstrates our commitment to the African market. The new Navara marks a significant milestone in our journey towards making safe, smart, stylish and sustainable mobility available to more people in Africa,”

    Kabelo Rabotho
  • 2020 Jeep® Gladiator to be debut in the Middle East

    2020 Jeep® Gladiator to be debut in the Middle East at the Legendary Liwa Festival
    2020 Jeep® Gladiator to be debut in the Middle East at the Legendary Liwa Festival

    2020 Jeep® Gladiator to be debut in the Middle East at the Legendary Liwa Festival:- The highly anticipated all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator – the most off-road capable pickup truck ever is set to make its Middle East debut at the legendary Liwa Festival, taking place in Abu Dhabi’s breath-taking Liwa Desert from December 26 , 2019 to January 10 , 2020.

    As Middle East’s biggest and wildest celebration of motorsports and 4×4 culture, the Liwa Festival is the perfect setting for the launch of the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator pickup truck in the Middle East market. Attracting over 1 million petrolheads and off-road enthusiasts from across the Middle East and the world, the Liwa Festival takes place at the foot of the infamous Tal Moreeb (Moreeb Dune).

    With a peak sitting at 300m above sea level and an incline of 50 degrees, it is the largest sand dune in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), and draws off-road drivers from across the Middle East region to take on the daunting challenge of climbing its imposing face.

    A purpose-built Jeep obstacle course will be one of the festival’s main attractions, challenging the contenders with their own SUVs to pass the ultimate Jeep trial, testing the limits of their vehicle’s capabilities, articulation and rigidity.

    The all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator will be displayed at the Jeep stand during the festival, and will feature genuine Jeep accessories and parts from MOPAR – the dedicated service, parts and customer care provider for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) around the globe – for optimum capability and performance.

    2020 Jeep Gladiator Launch Edition to celebrate its arrival in the Middle East market, a limited run of just 300 Jeep Gladiator Launch Edition models will be made available to customers in the Middle East showrooms in February 2020.

    Along with a Launch Edition Badge, the Gladiator will have unique features and design elements including a steel front bumper, 17-inch Mid Gloss Black aluminium wheels, 33-inch BF Goodrich M/Tires and black leather seats with red accent stitching.

    Standard features:-

    Standard features include LED head and taillights, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system, keyless entry, Forward Facing TrailCam camera, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, ParkSense rear park assist system, Advanced Brake Assist, Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, spray-in bedliner and wireless speaker.

    Built on the Gladiator Rubicon trim, the new Launch Edition is equipped with signature red tow hooks, Rock[1]Trac® 4×4 system, featuring a two-speed transfer case with a 4b1 low-range gear ratio, front and rear heavy[1]duty Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lok® electric front- and rear[1]axle lockers, segment-exclusive electronic sway bar disconnect, cab and bed rock rails, and Jeepʼs upgraded 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 285 horsepower and 353 Nm of torque in combination to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

  • VW JETTA brand successfully launched in China

    VW JETTA brand successfully launched in China
    Volkswagen’s new brand in China – JETTA

    VW JETTA brand successfully launched in China:- Volkswagen has successfully launched its sub-brand JETTA in China with the new SUV VS5 and the VA3 sedan. The Volkswagen JETTA is the most prosperous recent brand introduced in China with nearly 30,000 automobiles delivered to clienteles since market admittance in September.

    Almost 80 percent of VW JETTA deliveries were SUVs. With the new JETTA brand, Volkswagen is aiming young Chinese clienteles who are looking for an entry into the world of Volkswagen.

    “THE ENTRY-LEVEL SEGMENT HAS SO FAR BEEN SERVED ALMOST EXCLUSIVELY BY CHINESE BRANDS. THE JETTA BRAND CLOSES THE GAP BETWEEN THE ENTRY-LEVEL SEGMENT AND THE VOLUME SEGMENT, AT THE TOP END OF WHICH THE VOLKSWAGEN BRAND IS POSITIONED. WE SEE TREMENDOUS POTENTIAL THERE, AND THE FLYING START OF JETTA PROVES US RIGHT.”

    JÜRGEN STACKMANN, SALES BOARD MEMBER, VOLKSWAGEN

    About one third of all passenger cars in China are presently sold in the entry-level segment. Within this segment, around 80 percent clienteles buy a car for the first time in their lives. First-time purchasers in China are on average 20 years younger than in Europe or America. In the entry-level division they spend from 8,000 up to 15,000 euros.

    VW JETTA brand successfully launched in China
    Volkswagen’s new brand in China – JETTA

    With VW JETTA, for the first time in Volkswagen history a model is transformed into a brand with a proprietary model family. JETTA is situated independently in the market, but with an identifiable proximity to the world of Volkswagen.

    Innovative sales concepts such as highly digitized showrooms complete the brand experience.

    JETTA relies on the Volkswagen DNA: quality, safety, value retention and a clear design language. The JETTA collection includes a sedan and an SUV. A second SUV will follow in the near future.

    All JETTA models are produced by FAW-Volkswagen in a state-of-the art factory in Chengdu, working closely with FAW-VW’s central hub in the city of Changchun. With a share of almost 50 percent of worldwide distributions, China is Volkswagen’s leading single market. The brand delivered over 3 million automobiles in China for the second time in a row last year.

    While the overall market state in China remains challenging in 2019, the Volkswagen brand has grown market share by maintaining deliveries largely at last year’s level. Therefore the brand is expectant to deliver over 3 million vehicles once again in 2019.

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