Official Show Preview - The Dubai International

OFFICIAL SHOW
PREVIEW
10TH - 14TH NOVEMBER
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE
WWW.DUBAIMOTORSHOW.COM
MOTOR SHOW MADNESS
The Dubai International Motor Show is now in its 13th year, and
the 2015 edition promises to be the biggest, best and most actionpacked to date.
Held every two years, the Dubai International Motor Show is the main
highlight of the Dubai Motor Festival, which is held under the patronage of
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum,
Crown Prince of Dubai. The Dubai Motor Festival is organised by
Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s
Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and builds
on the widespread passion of all motor related sports across the region.
The demand from manufacturers for this year’s show is in line with the
growth curve of vehicle sales throughout the region which reached 16.7%
in the UAE in 2013, according to BMI Research. Total vehicle sales in
2015 looks set to top 425,000 by the close of the year, 5.1% up on 2014.
Such vibrancy underscores the show’s importance for manufacturers in
the region.
“The MENA region is regarded as one of the largest growth markets
in the automotive industry,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice
President, Exhibitions & Events Management, Dubai World Trade
OPENING HOURS
TUESDAY 10th NOVEMBER
WEDNESDAY 11th NOVEMBER
THURSDAY 12th NOVEMBER
FRIDAY 13th NOVEMBER
SATURDAY14th NOVEMBER
6.00 PM - 10.00 PM
11.00 AM - 10.00 PM
11.00 AM - 11.00 PM
11.00 AM - 11.00 PM
11.00 AM - 10.00 PM
MORE THAN 15
GLOBAL CAR
LAUNCHES AND
120 REGIONAL
RELEASES FROM
CAR AND MOTORCYCLE MAKERS
Centre. “This is reflected in the significant growth and success of the
Dubai International Motor Show, which is now established as the
definitive platform in the Middle East for showcasing the latest and most
exciting models and marques. We expect this year’s event to generate
even more interest from local and international motoring enthusiasts,
allowing key international automotive heavyweights to connect with a
wide array of audiences from across the globe.”
Show organisers have pulled out all the stops to make the 2015
event one of the most memorable. One of the biggest is the Motoring
Nostalgia Museum, an impressive array of some of the UAE's most
desirable collectors' classics. The pop-up museum will highlight key
vehicles from the 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s that have left their mark on
automobile history from collections that include Tomini Classics,
Mohammed Ben Sulayem's unique collection, the Sharjah Classic
Car Museum, Al Ain Classic Car Museum and owners taking part
in the Grand Parade. New features also include the Boulevard of
Dreams, a spectacular showcase of supercars; an all-new area for
bikers; Ignition live talks by motoring legends and experts; a custom
car section and driving challenges.
TICKET PRICES
EMAIL
1 DAY PASS, AED 65
[email protected]
ADVANCE (ONLINE) AED 55;
CHILDREN (12-18) AED 30;
CHILDREN (UNDER 12) FREE
WEBSITE
ORGANISED BY
www.dubaimotorshow.com
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 1
WHAT’S NEW
ORGANISED BY
NEW IN 2015
SUPPORTED BY
VISIT THE
MOTORING
NOSTALGIA MUSEUM
IN ZABEEL
HALL 1
OFFICIAL TIRE
EVENT PARTNERS
PROMOTION
PARTNERS
OFFICIAL
BATTERY
OFFICIAL GAMING PARTNER
STRATEGIC PARTNER
OFFICIAL AIRLINE PARTNER
OFFICIAL
OFFICIAL
ARABIC STATION ENGLISH STATION
MOTORING NOSTALGIA
If you have an appreciation for classic motoring, the Motoring
Nostalgia Museum – held with the support of Volante magazine
– is a must see. Besides the Motor Show itself, the Motoring
Nostalgia section is the biggest single feature and will highlight
key vehicles which have have left their mark on automobile
history.
The motoring hall of fame includes considerable contributions
from key collections in the region, including major inputs from
Dubai’s Tomini Classics, Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s unique
collection, Sharjah Classic Car Museum, Al Ain Classic Car
Museum and drivers who plan to take part in the Dubai Grand
Parade later in the month (November 21).
Of the 36 cars Tomini plans to display, the 1985 Ferrari 288
GTO is the most expensive. It is one of only 272 ever produced,
and was the only Ferrari built to go rallying. It was designed to
compete in Group B competitions, but the category was outlawed
in 1986 and the car never raced.
The section will also have live talks with experts that include
Promoseven Holdings chairman and founder Akram Miknas,
Alvis Car Company owner Alan Stote, television presenter James
Nicholls, Al Ain Classic Car Museum curator Miguel Llorente,
Simon Thornley – founding director of Getty Images turned car
restoration expert, Tomini’s man-of-many-hats Assyl Yacine and
Vijay Pillai from Max Garage. For a closer look see page 14 and 15.
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MOTORING MADNESS
GLOBAL PREMIERES
Be among the first in the world to see the most anticipated car
launches of the year. The Dubai International Motor Show will act
as a platform for more than 15 global car launches and 120 regionall
releases from car and motorcycle makers – more than at any point
in the history of the Show.
There has also been a significant boost in demand for floor spacee
by exhibitors by 23% - with Cadillac leading the charge by asking forr
70% more floor area than it used in 2013. McLaren, Lamborghini,
i,
Jaguar, Mazda, Porsche and Lincoln have all requested considerablyy
more space to display a broader range of cars this year.
Dubai’s growing importance is also apparent to bespokee
manufacturers like Panoz, David Brown Automotive and the Alviss
Car Company. They will be joined at the affordable end of the markett
by Chinese newcomer Kenbo. For more information on exclusivee
cars at the show, turn to page 6.
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE (L.L.C)
HAS APPOINTED ALPHA TOURS DUBAI
AS ITS OFFICIAL TRAVEL PARTNER, AND
THE COMPANY’S MOTORING MADNESS
PACKAGE INCLUDES THREE NIGHTS’
STAY, TRANSFERS, A TICKET TO FERRARI
WORLD, A DRIVING EXPERIENCE AT THE
DUBAI AUTODROME, A DESERT SAFARI
AND SILVER MARHABA SERVICE AT THE
AIRPORT. FOR DETAILS, FOLLOW THE
LINKS AT DUBAIMOTORSHOW.COM
OFFICIAL MUSIC PARTNER
OFFICIAL EVENT
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SUPPORTING PARTNERS
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DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 3
WHAT’S NEW
TAKE PART IN
THE DRIVING
EXPERIENCES IN
THE
ARENA PLAZA
DRIVING EXPERIENCES
The Dubai International Motor Show is about more than simply
seeing the latest cars on static display. This year, you can get
behind the wheel of an SUV to get a taste of just how capable the
latest road-going cars are when the going gets tough.
Land Rover will be premièring its Mobile Equipment for
the first time in the Middle East, a range of state-of-the-art,
mobile man-made tracks and obstacles that will give visitors the
chance to experience the unique all-terrain ability of Land Rover
vehicles. Toyota will also have a 4x4 experience.
You’ll also be able to sample the kind of terrifying speeds the
Bloodhound SSC project plans to hit when it attempted to break
the 1000mph barrier in Africa next year.
RTA AUCTION
THE DUBAI
INTERNATIONAL
MOTOR SHOW
WILL HOST
THE DUBAI
DISTINCTIVE
NUMBER PLATES
PUBLIC AUCTION
BY DUBAI ROADS
& TRANSPORT
AUTHORITY (RTA),
THE AUCTION,
SPONSORED BY
LEXUS, WILL TAKE
PLACE AT THE
AL MULTAQUA
BALLROOM
AT THE DUBAI
WORLD TRADE
CENTRE ON
14 NOV AT 16.30.
The MV Agusta F4 RR.
RIDE
DOWN TO THE
BIKERS
ARENA AT
HALL 8
BIKERS ARENA
The Dubai International Motor Show isn’t just about things on
four wheels; there is a dedicated section this year for bikers to sinkk
their teeth into, and a day specially dedicated to bikers.
November 13 has been set aside to honour two-wheel riders, with
th
plans for the day still under wraps.
There will be a dedicated Bikers Lounge open throughout the
show where riders and owners can gather to swap stories and ideas,
s,
a display of customised bikes with experts on hand to help with tips
ps
on modifying motorcycles, and a healthy attendance by accessoriess
specialists.
Royal Enfield – which is now based in Chennai, India, and
produces modern interpretations of classic English motorcycles –
will be there, as will Trikkes, MV Agusta, CAN AM, Ducati and
many others.
4 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
GET CONNECTED
THE CONNECTED CAR CONFERENCE WILL
REVIEW WHERE THE INDUSTRY IS HEADED
AND HOW THE SHIFT IN TECHNOLOGY
WILL TURN INTO INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS,
SOLUTIONS AND DRIVER EXPERIENCES. THE
CONFERENCE IS FREE AND IS BEING HELD
IN ASSOCIATION WITH CLOUD COMPUTING
COMPANY HERE, A WEB MAPPING AND LOCATION BUSINESS OWNED BY NOKIA. HERE
HAS MAPS AND SERVICES IN NEARLY 200
COUNTRIES.
WHAT’S NEW
KEN BLOCK TO ROCK DUBAI MOTOR SHOW
Ken Block’s name is synonymous with his Gymkhana antics –
viral videos that show him blasting through warehouses, under
exploding trucks or, in one in particular, taking over the streets of San
Francisco, usually completely sideways, sometimes appearing around
bends shrouded in clouds of tyre smoke. Block plans to be in Dubai
for the Motor Show on November 14, and plans demonstration runs
in his Ford Mustang Hoonicorn RTR from Gymkhana Seven. His
uncompromising driving produces tremendous action for spectators.
We caught up with him ahead of his return to Dubai.
Block's uncompromising
driving style is spectacular.
Is it right you only recently visited Dubai and the Middle East for the
first time?
That's true, I'd never actually been to this part of the world until earlier
this year, but I was really impressed when I came to Dubai. The city itself is
truly incredible to see, especially from the air, and the people are very warm
and inviting, plus, it seems like everyone here is really into cars and car
culture, which is awesome. The introduction that XDubai gave me to the
city couldn't have been better.
You already have a lot of fans in the Middle East, so are you planning on
taking part in any events or races in the region?
I don't currently have any plans for my 2016 race calendar, but my team
director and myself are always keeping an eye on events in the region that
would potentially align with our schedules and that would be a good fit for
myself.
Any plans to produce one of your Gymkhana videos in the Middle East?
We know your fans would love it.
Ha! Perhaps! I'm always looking for new and exciting ideas and locations
for my videos, so I never rule anything out.
Your new Ford Mustang ‘Hoonicorn’ is certainly something
special. How different is it to drive from cars you’ve raced/
performed in the past?
It's very different in the sense that it's the first and only
Gymkhana car I've had that has been a mix of retro muscle
mixed with modern, racing details and a big, naturally
aspirated V8 under the hood. All of my other Gymkhana cars
have been turbocharged four-cylinder cars.
We were glad you were unhurt after rolling your rally car
at the recent Red Bull Global Rally Cross in Barbados.
Are there any other memorable ‘hairy’ moments from your
career and which one was the ‘hairiest’?
I think the "hairiest" moment I've had was on the last run of
shakedown during WRC Portugal in 2011. I got caught out on some
loose gravel on the outside of a swept corner and dropped a wheel
which then got caught up a bump in the side of the road and it sent me
into the air and cartwheeling. That was a really rough crash, but I'm very
fortunate that the Ford Fiestas that M-Sport builds are incredibly safe. I
walked away from that crash with only a sore ankle, both myself and my
co-driver were fine. But that one was definitely scary for me.
This year the DIMS is hosting our own Motoring Nostalgia Classic
car museum. Other than your 1965 Mustang, are there any other
classic cars you’d like to own and ‘Hooniganize’?
I do have a few in mind that I'd love to build up to but I can't share
them with you yet!
This year’s event is also hosting a dedicated car tuning and styling
area, so what do you think is the appeal of custom tuning and
designing your car?
My only advice is to make sure that when you're building something,
you're building it for yourself. As long as you love it at the end of the
day, that's what's important.
What was the first car you ever owned?
It was a Toyota Corolla station wagon that was a hand-me-down from
my mum back in the 80s. It wasn't much, but I definitely had fun with it.
Which is the favourite car you’ve ever owned and why?
My Ford Mustang Hoonicorn from Gymkhana Seven. It's the
ultimate Gymkhana car and with 845 horsepower on tap, it's wild to
drive. I love that car.
"COLIN McRAE WAS MY MOTORSPORT HERO
AND I WAS FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO MEET
HIM EARLY ON IN MY RALLY CAREER HE WAS
ALWAYS MY INSPIRATION FOR GETTING INTO
RALLY SIMPLY BY THE WAY HE MADE THE
CAR DANCE DOWN THE STAGE IN SUCH AN
AGGRESSIVE, FLAT-OUT MANNER."
How do you feel about the rise in automobile technology? For example,
would you ever have a self-driving car and how do you feel about the
entrusting your safety to a machine?
I'm a driver, so of course I'll always want to be able to be in control. I'd be
open to a self driving car if I had to get up early for a flight and wanted to
catch a nap on the way to the airport however!
If you could change one thing about cars and driving, what would it be?
I think it'd be a lot more fun if all cars came with a hydraulic handbrake
like my racecars.
If you could own any car, from across history or present day, what would
it be and why?
A Ford RS200 from the Group B era of rally, which, conveniently, I happen to
have just acquired. I'm very excited to get working on that project and get it on
the road in the next year or so.
What would be your ideal driving holiday?
Racing at WRC Finland again, I know that since I'm not doing WRC
full-time I wouldn't be completely competitive, but I'd love to go and do
Finland once more as a "rally tourist" so to speak, the roads are simply
amazing there.
Who is your motoring or motorsport hero? How have they affected your
own relationships with driving and motorsport?
Colin McRae was my motorsport hero and I was fortunate enough to meet
him early on in my rally career and was able to develop a great friendship with
him. He was always my inspiration for getting into rally simply by the way he
made the car dance down the stage in such an aggressive, flat-out manner.
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 5
EXHIBITOR NEWS
EXCLUSIVE CAR REVEALS AT DIMS
MIDDLE EAST DEBUT
FOR BMW 7 SERIES
The Middle East will get its first look at the all-new BMW 7 Series
during the Dubai International Motor Show following the car’s
global reveal in Frankfurt. The flagship luxury executive sedan has,
for the last four decades, cemented a reputation for class-leading
driving dynamics, long-distance comfort and efficiency and it
remains one of the best-selling BMW models in the region.
The new, sixth-generation, 7 Series draws from lightweight
design lessons learned in BMW’s i3 and i8 programmes, with
the very best company-wide advances in design, powertrain
development, chassis systems, operating systems, connectivity and
interior comfort and design lavished on the car.
It’s not uncommon for sportscars to feature carbon fibre in
their construction, but BMW is the first manufacturer to push
the material into its mainstream vehicles. Much of the car’s upper
structure is made from carbon-fibre, and BMW says it is the first
car in its segment in which industrially manufactured CFRP is
combined with steel and aluminium. Engineers have focused
much of their effort on increasing the strength and rigidity of the
passenger cell while at the same time significantly reducing vehicle
weight. BMW say that the use of carbon fibre only has helped trim
130 kg from the 7 Series.
It’s not all about weight loss. The 7 Series comes with a choice
of completely revised straight-six and V8 engines, latest generation
eight-speed Steptronic transmission and the optional xDrive
intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
The new 7 Series is packed with other innovative features too.
If you find parking a chore, then the 7 Series is the first car in the
world that can be parked and retrieved without anyone behind the
wheel. The Remote Control Parking system is triggered through the
newly designed BMW Display Key, and lets you get out and watch
for obstacles as the car carries out semi-automatic manoeuvres.
The 7 Series is also available with laser headlights, first seen as an
option on the i8, which is not only super bright and has a high-beam
range of up to 600 metres but, coupled with the company’s Selective
Beam system, means oncoming traffic isn’t dazzled.
Inside, the iDrive operating system’s monitor comes in touch display
THIS MEANS
CUSTOMERS
WILL ALSO BE
ABLE TO
OPERATE THE
SYSTEM IN THE
SAME WAY AS
SMARTPHONES
AND TABLETS
form for the first time, making the transition between smartphone and
iDrive operation much smoother. BMW has also introduced gesture
control for the first time too, which interprets hand movements and
translates them into instructions for the car to follow.
Lebanon-born Karim Habib, current head of design at BMW
Automobile, will also be at the show. Habib joined BMW in 1998
(to work on the exterior design of the E65 7 Series) and succeeded
Adrain van Hooydonk as chief designer in 2012. Habib also
designed the 2005 7 Series.
A TOUCH OF CLASS
HEAR DAVID
BROWN TALK AS
PART OF
IGNITION LIVE
WED 11TH NOV AT
6.30 pm
6 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
David Brown Automotive will introduce the Speedback GT to
the UAE during the Dubai International Motor Show.
Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Britain, the
Speedback GT encapsulates a classically styled car with modern
mechanicals, reliability and comforts. It made its US debut at
The Quail, part of the annual auto-extravaganza in Monterey,
California in August, and will now travel to Dubai.
To celebrate its arrival in Dubai, David Brown Automotive
has built a special-edition specification of Speedback GT, which
includes Scottish Bridge of Weir leather, a unique wood veneer
and the marque’s alloy wheel design which denotes the geometry
of the Union Jack. To complete this exclusive Speedback GT’s
look, David Brown Automotive has also developed a stunning
new pearlescent light blue paint colour named Blue Moon.
Company founder and CEO David Brown said: “It’s been a
fantastic time for Speedback GT since its launch. Having had
such a warm reception at a number of world-leading shows in
Europe and the US, it is a natural progression to bring the car
to Dubai, where we’re sure there will be plenty of fans. We have
already received a lot of enquiries asking when we would be
bringing the car over so we’re really excited to finally be making
the journey across.”
The Speedback GT is handbuilt in Coventry using traditional
British materials and craftsmanship. The made to order
machine has a AED2.8m price tag, is powered by a 5.0-litre V8
supercharged engine with 510 hp and 625 Nm, hitting 0-60mph
in 4.6 s and a top speed of 250 km/h.
EXCLUSIVE CAR REVEALS AT DIMS
A BENTLEY WITH GO-ANYWHERE ABILITY
The luxury SUV market received a shot in the arm earlier this
year when Bentley announced that it had given the go-ahead for
production of the world’s fastest, most exclusive and most luxurious
SUV, the all-new Bentayga.
Bentley has made no secret of the fact that it feels the SUV
market has a space big enough to park an uber-luxury vehicle in it,
and they’re not alone. Lamborghini, Maserati and even Rolls-Royce
have, for some time now, been studying the viability of the market
and the impact new models may have on their sales targets globally.
Bentley believes the potential is enormous, with some media
commentators estimating the Bentayga could increase company
sales volumes by at least 50 percent. In the Middle East, at least, that
seems to carry some weight: reception to the company’s EXP 9 F
concept in 2012 may have been mixed internationally, but it struck
a chord with customers in the Middle East who identified with its
blend of uncompromised performance, off-road potential and luxury.
Three years later, the EXP 9 F’s Mulsanne-inspired lines have made
way for a design that seems more influenced by those of the extremely
popular Continental GT. The Bentayga’s wheel arches, fenders and
bonnet deliver a balance between sportiness and SUV presence.
The Bentayga is powered by an all-new version of the Crewebuilt 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 TSI engine. The engine develops
600 bhp and 900 Nm, which should be more than enough to
haul the SUV to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and on to a top speed
of 301 km/h. Despite its displacement and size, the new W12
is super-efficient because it uses both direct and indirect fuel
BLEND OF
UNCOMPROMISED
PERFORMANCE,
OFF-ROAD
POTENTIAL AND
LUXURY
injection. Switching seamlessly between the two technologies, the
combination of these systems maximises refinement, delivers low
particulate emissions and maximises power and torque delivery.
Bentley’s Variable Displacement system, which shuts down half
of the engine under defined conditions, also helps reduce fuel
consumption and emissions.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The
transmission and four-wheel-drive system has been strengthened
to handle the demands and high torque levels of off-road driving,
and the multi-mode air suspension makes off-piste driving a
breeze. Bentley says the development programme for the Bentayga
has been the most exhaustive in the company’s history, ranging
across five continents. From the dirt and gravel of South Africa
and the dunes of Dubai, to the muddy fields of Cheshire, and from
-30°C in the frozen North Cape to searing 50°C desert heat, the
Bentayga’s ability to perform on any surface and even in the most
extreme conditions has been proven.
Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley
Motors, said: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It
redefines luxury in the SUV sector and offers a genuine Bentley
experience in any environment, thanks to a combination of
unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cuttingedge technology. With this extraordinary car we are looking
forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for
Bentley. The Bentayga is the next step in our brand’s bold future.”
Customer deliveries commence in early 2016.
GLOBAL AND REGIONAL DEBUTS FOR FCA
GL
STAND
LOCATION
STAND 100
HALL 1 AND
SS205, SHEIKH
SAEED HALL 2
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the seventh-largest automaker
in th
the world based on total annual vehicle sales, will be showing a
number of exciting new models for the first time in the region on
num
their stands (100, Hall 1 and SS205 in the Sheikh Saeed Hall 2) at
thei
the 2015 Dubai International Motor Show.
There will be a global reveal of FCA’s brand new 1-ton pickup plus, for the first time anywhere in the world outside Europe,
a chance to see the extraordinary 510hp Alfa Romeo Giulia
Quadrifoglio, which is inspired by Ferrari technology and expertise
and a stylish all-new C-segment sedan.
FCA has a broad portfolio of brands that comprises a diverse
range of vehicles including some of the world’s most recognisable
cars - Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Charger, Ram Trucks
and the iconic Fiat 500 Cinquecento.
From the premium Alfa Romeo and Abarth models through
to high performance SRT models including the latest generation
of the legendary 8.4-litre V10 Viper, the 707hp Charger and
Challenger Hellcats and the “go anywhere, do anything” Jeep
range, the benchmark for 4x4 vehicles which celebrates its 75th
Anniversary next year plus award-winning light commercial
vehicles, the FCA product range covers a wider than ever range of
driving options.
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 7
EXCLUSIVE CAR REVEALS AT DIMS
VISIT PANOZ
IN ZABEEL
HALL,
STAND 227
FERRARI 488 LOSES ITS HEAD
PANOZ TO MAKE
UAE DEBUT
For motorsport fans, the
Panoz name needs no
introduction. Entrepreneur
Don Panoz founded the
Panoz Motor Sport Group in
1997, laying the groundwork
for nearly two decades of
successful international
endurance sports car and
open-wheel racing.
The company will have
two cars on its stand at the
Dubai International Motor
Show; the road-going
2015 Panoz Esperante
Spyder GT, and the 1997
Panoz Esperante GTR-1
Le Mans Homologation
Special – fresh from a total,
ground-up, nut and bolt
restoration.
The GTR-1 was designed
by Adrian Reynard and
became the first successful
front-engine prototype race
car in more than 30 years
of motorsports. The one
Panoz is bringing to Dubai
is the last remaining Panoz
Esperante GTR-1 Le Mans
Homologation Special
and a true one-of-a-kind
American V8 supercar. The
Panoz GTR-1, with its 600plus horsepower 6.0-litre
Ford-based V8 engine,
competed in international
endurance racing in various
forms from 1997 to 2003.
While based on the very
successful GTR-1 race
car and constructed very
similarly to its racing
siblings, this Panoz
Esperante GTR-1 Le Mans
Homologation Special is
street legal and sports a
full leather interior. It has
remained in the Panoz
collection in Braselton,
Georgia, its entire existence,
and the Panoz craftsmen
recently completed a full
restoration.
It’s also for sale. If you’ve
got a cool $1.75 million
(AED6,426,962) burning a
hole in your pocket, pop in
and see the team for a chat.
Panoz will also have a
2015 Esperante Spyder GT
built to commemorate the
company’s 25th anniversary
and is one of only 25 the
company will ever make.
Ferrari never fails to disappoint, and the new 488 Spider set pulses
racing during the Frankfurt Motor Show. The company hasn’t
confirmed whether the car will appear in Dubai, but we’re sure the
Italian supercar maker won’t pass up the opportunity to present the
car to its Middle East fans.
The Spider, naturally, follows the launch of the fixed roof coupe
earlier this year and it powered by the same 660-horsepower twinturbo V8 you’ll find shoe-horned into the engine bay of its fixedhead stablemate.
The folding hard-top takes just 14 seconds to retract, giving the
driver and his passenger access to the unfiltered exhaust note and
the utterly sublime feeling of al fresco driving. If you want to keep
the roof up but still hear the V8 howl, a small glass rear window can
be lowered to allow that glorious engine note to sing through to the
cabin. The glass also acts as a windbreak when the roof is stowed.
Surprisingly, the Spider doesn’t carry much of a weight penalty
over the coupe. Traditionally, open topped cars have needed
additional bracing to help maintain chassis rigidity when the roof is
retracted, but Ferrari’s engineers mastered that issue. The Spider is
claimed to offer the same sort of epic performance and handling as
the coupe. The 488 Spider is expected to appear mid-2016. Prices
have yet to be determined.
SOMETHING WILD, SOMETHING REFINED, FROM FORD
Ranger Wildtrak
2016 Edge
Ford has never had an issue proving its worth as a maker of
recreational trucks and workhorse wagons. The F-150 has been
America’s best selling pickup for the past 43 years and the bestselling vehicle for over three decades.
The all-new Ranger Wildtrak, the ultimate version of the midsized truck, is designed to appeal to weekend adventurers and
comes packed with the kind of technologies and
toys you’ll find in Ford’s passenger cars.
“The new Wildtrak takes the Ford Ranger
to the next level with an aggressive exterior, a
premium, sporty, interior, the latest Driver Assist
Technologies and capabilities that ensure it’s up
for any adventure,” said Trevor Worthington, vice
president, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific.
“Building on the bolder, smarter and more
refined new Ranger, the new Wildtrak is a perfect
fit for customers who want to combine genuine 4x4 capability with
stand-out styling and premium features.”
To mark the Wildtrak out as the flagship of the Ranger lineup,
designers worked to emphasise its tough, sophisticated design.
Flanked by projector head lamps, the bold trapezoidal grille with
strong outboard nostrils is finished in a dark, liquid metallic grey. The
8 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
same accent colour continues to the side mirrors, door handles, side
air vents, bed rails and tail lamps for a dark, sporty appearance.
“The accent colours on the Wildtrak help to punch out the
architecture of the fascia, and make what is already a very bold
design even bolder – it’s instantly recognisable on the road,” said
Dave Dewitt, exterior design manager for the Ranger Wildtrak.
“The result is more sports-focused and purposeful,
and a perfect companion for a weekend getaway
with a surfboard, kayak or quad bike.”
Ford will also debut the all-new Edge crossover
during the Dubai International Motor Show. Ford
says that the Edge helped to define the crossover sport
utility vehicle segment when it was launched in 2006.
“With a car-based design, Edge delivered better onroad comfort, fuel efficiency and driving dynamics than
any truck-based SUV. It was proof a utility vehicle
could meet the demanding needs of an everyday commuter.”
The 2016 Edge is all-new from wheels to roof, and is based on
Ford’s successful, global midsize vehicle platform. The Edge has been
reimagined with a stronger, more athletic shape. It has been retooled
to meet higher expectations for quality, and re-engineered to add more
features and technologies for a more rewarding driving experience.
THE WILDTRAK IS
DESIGNED TO
APPEAL TO
ADVENTURERS
EXCLUSIVE CAR REVEALS AT DIMS
RANGE ROVER TO UNVEIL FLAGSHIP
Visitors to the Land Rover stand at this year’s Dubai International
Motor Show will be given a unique opportunity to witness the
regional unveiling of the Range Rover SVAutobiography. The most
luxurious and powerful series-production Range Rover in the
model’s successful 45-year history will be on display alongside the
full line up of Land Rover models.
The SVAutobiography brings a new level of design sophistication
to the line-up and is produced by Land Rover’s Special Vehicle
Operations division. It is the most luxurious and powerful series
production Range Rover in the vehicle’s 45-year history and is
available with distinctive Duo-tone paintwork and a 550PS V8
petrol engine. This year also marks the 21st anniversary of the
introduction of the exclusive Autobiography designation.
Speaking about Land Rover at the Dubai International Motor
Show, Bruce Robertson, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover
MENA, commented “Land Rover has witnessed a remarkable year
with introductions of new and exciting vehicles like the Discovery
Sport and the Range Rover Sport SVR, which continue to receive
an outstanding response both globally and regionally. With such
positive feedback from our customers we are now extremely excited
to regionally reveal the Range Rover SVAutobiography at the
Dubai International Motor Show alongside some of our most
popular Land Rover products including the Range Rover Evoque,
the LR4 and the Land Rover Defender.”
“Land Rover is thrilled to continue its celebration of Range
g
Rover’s 45 year anniversary at the motor show.”
ow.”
LAND ROVER
EXPERIENCE
PART OF THE
JAGUAR LAND
ROVER ZONE,
ARENA PLAZA
INNOVATIVE DESIGNS AWAIT
LEXUS VISITORS
Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributor of Lexus in the UAE,
has chosen the Dubai International Motor Show for the regional
premier of a brand new vehicle which is slated to redefine its
segment with its new design and cutting edge technology that
embody the energy and engineering Lexus will be delivering in the
coming years.
Visitors of the Lexus 1,200 m2 stand at Sheikh Saeed Hall 1
of the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre
will get the chance to check the luxury brand’s latest innovation,
performance and design related offering, through its latest line-up
of SUVs, Sedans, Crossovers and Hybrid vehicles.
“We have always believed in the importance of the Dubai
International Motor Show as a launch platform for our premium
vehicles and as a great venue to showcase our innovative and
out-of-the-box design philosophy,” said Chris Buxton, General
Manager of Lexus Sales at Al-Futtaim Motors.
Lexus has also chosen the show to display prototypes of SenseWear, a collection of sense-oriented garments and accessories
created by two UAE-based Italian designers who won this year’s
global Lexus Design Award at the Milan Design Week.
“Lexus’ mission goes beyond the product itself and through
initiatives such as the Lexus Design Award and Lexus Short Films
competition we are trying to engage the young generation and
inspire young people in the UAE in surprising ways.”
SHOW-STOPPING REGIONAL
REVEALS FOR JAGUAR
Premium car manufacturer Jaguar has announced plans for the regional launch of its much
anticipated Jaguar F-PACE performance crossover at the 2015 Dubai International Motor Show.
The launch vehicle will be just one of a number of exciting showcases at the Jaguar stand which will
be featured alongside the latest models including the all new Jaguar family of saloons and the award
winning Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé.
Celebrating its exciting future and rich 80-year heritage at
the show, Jaguar will be unveiling the all-new Jaguar F-PACE
to consumers from the region for the very first time alongside a
trio of new Jaguar products - the enhanced 2016 Jaguar XJR and
All-New 2016 Jaguar XF-S, along with the award-winning New
Jaguar XE-S.
The Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupé will be showcased in the
Bloodhound Rapid Response livery. The actual Jaguar F-TYPE
R Coupé Bloodhound Rapid Response (RRV) is one of the cars
supporting the Bloodhound world land speed record attempt.
Speaking about Jaguar’s participation at the Dubai
International Motor Show, Bruce Robertson, Managing Director
of Jaguar Land Rover MENA, said: “Jaguar’s 80th year has been
a monumental one of transformation for the brand on both a
global and regional level, from the introduction of the All-New
Jaguar XE, to the launch of the All-New 2016 Jaguar XF and
now the reveal of the newest addition to the family, the F-PACE.
“WE ARE
EXTREMELY
PROUD TO BE
REVEALING OUR
FIRST EVER
PERFORMANCE
CROSSOVER... TO
OUR CUSTOMERS
IN MENA”
ALL-NEW JAGUAR F-PACE
The Jaguar F-PACE, recently unveiled to the
world at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September
2015, is a performance crossover for those who
love driving, with unrivalled dynamics and
everyday usability.
The F-PACE is a five-seat performance
crossover and the third all-new product launched
by Jaguar in 2015. Designed, engineered and
manufactured in the UK, the F-PACE is the
production version of the C-X17 concept car
which appeared in Dubai in 2013, and features
Jaguar’s lightweight aluminium architecture.
ALL-NEW JAGUAR XF-S
The Jaguar XF brings an unrivalled blend of
design, luxury, technology and efficiency to
lead the business car segment. Jaguar says the
XF sticks to the great tradition of sporting
Jaguar saloons while being completely of its
time. Lighter, more efficient and packed with
technology, the Jaguar XF is underpinned by
class-leading driving dynamics and refinement.
With more torque, uprated handling and
attractive styling, Jaguar says its XF-S is as much
a pleasure to drive as it is to behold.
JAGUAR XJR
NEW JAGUAR XE-S
The most performance-orientated XE model
features a race-inspired interior. The Taurus
leather seats have suede cloth panels and the
tread plates and leather sports steering wheel
carry the S logo. The front bumper’s enlarged
air intakes hint at the performance potential
of the supercharged V6. Side sill extensions,
rear spoiler, gloss black rear valance, red brake
calipers and optional forged, 20-inch ‘Propeller’
alloy wheels complete the package.
The Jaguar XJR, one of Jaguar’s flagship sports
saloons, combines supercar performance and
assertive looks with the high levels of luxury
already associated with the XJ range. Embodying
the three pillars of technology, performance and
seductive design which Jaguar is known for, the
Jaguar XJR delivers new levels of dynamic ability
in a luxury saloon.
SSC
EXPERIENCE:
ARENA PLAZA
WHICH IS
ACCESSED VIA
SHEIKH SAEED
HALL 1.
JAGUAR BLOODHOUND SSC EXPERIENCE
Bringing the Bloodhound SSC experience to the Dubai International
Motor Show, Jaguar has created a 1,000 mile per hour drive experience
simulator to give visitors the incredible opportunity to get behind the wheell
of the Bloodhound SSC.
Visitors who decide to take on the challenge can try to set a new Land Speed
peed
Record and claim the title as the fastest driver on the planet.
This Jaguar Experience will be located at the Jaguar Land Rover Experience Zone at the Dubai
International Motor Show in the Arena Plaza which is accessed via Sheikh Saeed Hall 1.
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 9
EXCLUSIVE CAR REVEALS AT DIMS
ROLLS-ROYCE TO REVEAL THREE NEW MODELS
Luxury car maker Rolls-Royce usually pulls out all of the stops
when it comes to the Dubai Motor Show, and this year is no
exception – with three regional reveals scheduled.
The show will mark the first public appearance in the region of the
Rolls-Royce Dawn, which made its debut at Frankfurt in September.
The company says the Dawn is “the world’s only true modern
four-seater super-luxury drophead” open top car made, and that
its design teams were guided by the words of company co-founder
Sir Henry Royce to “Strive for perfection in everything you do.
Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist,
design it. Accept nothing nearly right or good enough.”
While the Dawn is based on the Wraith coupe, Rolls-Royce says
80% of the exterior body panels are unique to the open top car “to
“THE WORLD’S
ONLY TRUE
MODERN
FOUR-SEATER
SUPER-LUXURY
DROPHEAD”
The Rolls-Royce Dawn: Utter
luxury and performance for four.
accommodate an evolution of Rolls-Royce’s design language and to
encapsulate highly contemporary, four-seat super-luxury drophead
architecture.” In fact, the only carryover exterior parts from the
Wraith are the doors and the grille surround.
Rolls-Royce claims the roof of the Dawn delivers the silence of
a Wraith when up and operates in almost complete silence in just
over 20 seconds at a cruising speed of up to 50 km/h.
Working with a fabric roof configuration, the Rolls-Royce
engineering team set themselves a challenging goal which they were
unwilling to compromise on – to make the quietest convertible car
in the world today. This quest for silence applied to all aspects of
tthe engineering of the new roof and by extension the new motor
ccar.
Firstly, the passengers’ on-board aural experience roof up and roof
down while in motion had to be pure Rolls-Royce. The design of
d
tthe roof had to be graceful, beautiful and sensuous whilst remaining
oone of the largest canopies to grace a convertible car. Indeed, the
Dawn’s roof is the second largest fabric roof applied to a current
D
production car, second only to that of the Rolls-Royce Phantom
p
Drophead Coupe.
D
Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce
Motor Cars , said; “Our new Rolls-Royce Dawn promises a
M
striking, seductive encounter like no other Rolls-Royce to date, and
begins a new age of open-top, super-luxury motoring. Dawn is a
beautiful new motor car that offers the most uncompromised opentop motoring experience in the world. It will be the most social of
super-luxury drophead motor cars for those who wish to bathe in
the sunlight of the world’s most exclusive social hotspots. Quite
simply, it is the sexiest Rolls-Royce ever built.”
Deliveries on the new Rolls-Royce Dawn commence in the
second quarter of 2016.
Two other Rolls-Royce models will also be revealed at the show.
The company says the “one of one” bespoke editions include:
The Phantom Coupe ‘Tiger’ and The Ghost ‘Golf ’. The company
couldn’t elaborate on details ahead of the show.
TOYOTA AND AL-FUTTAIM SET FOR IMPRESSIVE SHOW
Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE,
will have something for everyone at the Dubai International
Motor Show, whether they are thrill seekers and adrenaline
junkies, eco-conscious motorists or fans looking for the latest cars
and technologies updates from Toyota.
Guests will have the chance to see regional premiers on the
15,000m2 stand, while also going on a trip down memory lane with
the heritage of Toyota vehicles, witnessing today’s line-up of Toyota
cars and getting a glimpse into the future of Toyota technology.
“The Dubai International Motor Show is a great platform for
us to showcase not just new vehicles, but also new technology
that we believe will change the world of motoring as we know it.
With hybrid and fuel-cell technology on show, we hope visitors
10 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
will get a glimpse at how Toyota has evolved the way it builds cars,”
said Saud Abbasi, Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Motors.
The stand will feature the latest line-up of Toyota vehicles, while
also featuring a heritage zone and a hybrid zone. Also in line with
its philosophy of injecting fun and excitement, Toyota will have an
impressive outdoor activation that guarantees thrill and excitement
to all of the show’s visitors, in an experience unlike any other.
“On our 60th anniversary, we have brought with us all the
showstoppers for this year’s Motor Show. As part of the fabric of
this nation, Al-Futtaim Motors has evolved to meet the needs of
the country and its citizens, and our pioneering cars, along with our
future technology, will continue to move the nation and usher UAE
mobility into the future,” added Abbasi.
WHAT’S NEW
MEET THE EXPERTS
MANUEL
SCHMIDT
FOR DETAILS
ON THE
LIVE IGNITION
TALKS CHECK OUT
THE MOTOR SHOW
WEBSITE
able to replace it within 4 hours using our on bboard
d tools
l at the
h
road side. Besides that, the car has been modified over the years to
be more capable and robust with an uprated drivetrain, suspension
and engine.
AS A CO-FOUNDER OF THE LAND ROVER OWNERS
UAE group, Manuel is a keen explorer of the region’s deserts and
mountains in his specially equipped Land Rover Defender 90.
Manuel will be at DIMS to take part in this year’s ‘Ignition Live
Talks’, where he will be sharing a number of informative talks
including teaching the basics of planning an overland expedition, as
well as the technical requirements necessary for taking your vehicle
off-road. Before that though we were able to catch up with Manuel
to preview some of the useful info he’ll be sharing during his talks,
including the secrets to planning a successful expedition to what to
do when you’ve broken down in the middle of the desert.
What would you say are the most important things to consider
when planning a serious off-road expedition in the region?
It might be in the German mentality, but I always expect the worst to
happen and try to be prepared for it. That can be a technical incident,
or simply not being able to cover enough distance or having enough
food, petrol and water. Every longer trip over a couple of days and
especially into unknown terrain needs a detailed preparation for the
vehicle, route and equipment.
You’ve taken your Land Rover all over the Middle East, so
what would you say has been the most remarkable expedition
you’ve been on so far?
It wouldn’t be fair to single out a specific country since all of them
have had amazing things to explore and discover. For example, even
if you feel you know the UAE pretty well, it still has so much more
to discover than what’s been written about in books. However,
probably one of the most remarkable trips was a round trip around
Saudi Arabia, a very unknown country with is usually difficult to
enter by car for non GCC locals, but which has an amazing and
diverse landscape with endless historical places to explore.
What important lessons have your experiences off-roading
through the Middle East taught you?
Expect the unexpected – besides safety precautions. Going further
beyond the beaten track can open up some amazing discoveries of
region’s history and landscape, but the further you head away from
civilisation, the better it is to be aware of it. We often forget that
we are venturing into one of the harshest environments without
access to support services, food or water. Also, the less cars that are
travelling with you, the more important it is to be independent.
When you’re in Saudi Arabia, being able to make a Satellite phone
call to a friend with a Defender wiring diagram in his head can
really help you when you’re trying to track down an issue with your
fuel system in the middle of nowhere.
What is it you most love about your Land Rover Defender 90?
It’s a box on four wheels. All boxes fit nicely inside without losing
any space. The short wheelbase makes it very manoeuvrable and
capable off road. It’s an agricultural vehicle, which can take a
real beating without sustaining damage and risking you getting
stranded. Fewer electrics inside also means that less can go wrong,
and if things do go wrong it usually won’t fully immobilise the car
to the point where you need a garage to fix it. For example, when
my front differential failed on one of our drives, we took one of
the propeller shafts out and kept driving to the next city and were
EXPECT THE
WORST TO
HAPPEN AND TRY
TO BE PREPARED
FOR IT. THAT CAN
BE A TECHNICAL
INCIDENT, OR
SIMPLY NOT
BEING ABLE TO
COVER ENOUGH
DISTANCE OR
HAVING ENOUGH
FOOD, PETROL
AND WATER.
EVERY LONGER
TRIP OVER A
COUPLE OF DAYS
AND ESPECIALLY
INTO UNKNOWN
TERRAIN NEEDS
A DETAILED
PREPARATION
FOR THE VEHICLE,
ROUTE AND
EQUIPMENT.
Is there any exciting news coming up for the Land Rover Owners
UAE group?
The group was started by four of us some years ago to give likeminded people the opportunity to discuss and experience these great
vehicles. Since then the group has grown to 700 members with a lot
from other countries in the Middle East. While we will continue to
give new members the chance to learn from our more experienced
ones about safe off-roading, recovery workshops and enjoyable
drives, we are also planning to start supporting the building of local
platforms in the other countries of the Middle East in order to serve
as the same valuable platform but with their own local branding.
What was the first car you ever owned?
My very first car was a VW Polo with 55hp and the CL options
that time, which meant metallic paint and coloured seat covers.
Doing lots of music with heavy equipment, the car drove most of
the time below the limit of the suspension.
What’s your favourite car you’ve ever owned and why?
I would do wrong if didn’t say the Defender 90, as after all these
years it always has the ability to make me smile; but I do remember
a Audi A3 3.2l I had back in 2007 which made me smile as well
due to the fast shifting gears, agile and powerful straight engine. It
was probably the opposite of the Defender – and good fun on the
German autobahn.
How do you feel about the rise in automobile technology? For
example, would you ever have a self-driving car and how do you
feel about entrusting your safety to a machine?
An interesting question. Technical evolution is part of our life
and we can’t and shouldn’t stop it. Technology is pushing the
capabilities of our vehicles further and further and almost beyond
a human’s ability to control a car. This technology is beneficial
for safety to a certain extent, but it also means being even closer
to our physical limits, with the possibility that it could possibly
fail without giving us the ability to control the car’s behaviour.
Another aspect is the possibility of immobilization that we face on
our trips. Modern cars loaded with support systems are amazingly
capable – until they fail and can only be fixed in the garage. This
is not something you want when being on long trips away from
workshops.
What do you feel will be the biggest upcoming innovation for
automobiles? For example what upcoming innovations in offroading are you most excited about?
With off-roading in mind, I believe less is still more since less
things can go wrong. Talking about commuter cars, the most
amazing future is surely the connected car for traffic optimization
and especially prediction. If your on-board navigation knows
where you are going together with 300 other cars, it might not
drive you into the SZR traffic but over other routes. From an
eecological perspective, Tesla is on the right track with
b
building more sustainable cars, and I’d be very keen
tto test drive an electrical engine in the dunes with its
im
immediate power to the wheels.
If you could change one thing about cars and
dr
driving,
what would it be?
D
Drivers and the mentality. The road is not a racetrack
an
and five seconds saved in traffic from changing lanes
wo
won’t make a difference to your day, while driving
bumper to bumper doesn’t make anyone win either. But
bu
this will hopefully go back to your previous question,
th
as hopefully advances in electronic support systems will
prevent drivers from going beyond common sense.
pre
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 11
FEATURE
RISE OF THE MACHINES
AUTOMOTIVE EVOLUTION
If you want a glimpse into the future of motoring, take a look
at your smartphone. It may seem an unlikely parallel, but the
evolution of the telephone – from a heavy, wall-mounted box with
a crank handle – to a small piece of touch sensitive glass capable of
controlling your life, music, memories and future decisions – does
share similarities with what manufacturers are planning for the car.
Intelligent connectivity and digitisation both in and outside of
the car are going to play a growing importance on future vehicle
developments. Within a reasonably short space of time, automated
driving systems and assistants will gradually be phased in – slowly
reducing stress on the driver and those travelling with them.
Automated driving – where the car drives itself by using onboard
systems and sensors to work out where it is and where it needs
to go – is one aspect. Audi has already developed a car capable of
doing that. In 2014, a largely stock RS7 nick-named Bobby ran test
laps around Germany’s Hockenheimring F1 track, nailing each of
the 17 turns, hitting top speeds of over 240 km/h and lapping just
30 seconds slower than when piloted by a human.
While impressive, firing a car around a racetrack is a fairly simple
task when compared to the monumental job of dialing that into
every day driving tasks. The clinical environment of a racetrack
doesn’t take into account the complexities of dealing with other
cars alongside, vehicles approaching from side streets, pedestrians,
cyclists, motorcyclists, street signs, traffic lights – and the multitude
of other choices an automated car will have to contend with in the
future. Connectivity is key to unraveling this. This is where vehicles
will communicate with each other, and it’s vital is our future roads
are going to be safe and co-ordinated urban arteries. It’s a major
nut to crack for the automotive industry, manufacturers and road
authorities around the globe, and consists of two major areas.
Car-to-car communication is probably the most important in
terms of road safety, because it warns and informs the driver of
potentially hazardous situations within a short space of time. It’s
where the car and its safety systems are able to respond very quickly
– possibly before the driver could otherwise, and maybe even before
12 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
IN 2014, A
LARGELY STOCK
RS7 NICK-NAMED
BOBBY RAN TEST
LAPS AROUND
GERMANY’S
HOCKENHEIMRING
F1 TRACK,
NAILING EACH
OF THE 17
TURNS, HITTING
TOP SPEEDS OF
OVER 240 KM/H
AND LAPPING
JUST 30
SECONDS
SLOWER THAN
WHEN PILOTED
BY A HUMAN.
hazards are visible to the naked eye. Think heavy fog, and the ability
to penetrate the haze with forward looking scanning systems that
can slow and stop the car should the road ahead be blocked.
Car-to-infrastructure will help future vehicles read information
about road conditions and other hazards like construction sites
and even traffic light phases to help get you to your destination the
easiest and least stressful way.
While it may sound like the driver is being gradually phased out of the
process, manufacturers say the emphasis is not on disengaging the driver,
but on improving road safety, reducing travel times and cutting stress in
the cockpit.There are other benefits too. Intelligently connecting cars to
parking spaces means you won’t spend those frustrating minutes at the
end of a journey scanning for an empty spot. The car will simply deposit
you at the door (or specified transfer zone), then drive off and park itself.
The driver can then retrieve the car at the press of a button. To manage
it all, a lot of work needs to be done by local authorities and global
bodies to implement secure legal frameworks and data centres. Under
the Vienna Convention in 1968, wording stipulates that the driver must
be in control of their vehicle at all times. A wording change in March
2014 by the working group UNECE (United Nations Economic
Commission for Europe) approved ammendments to the 1968 article
which allow for automated driving systems to be used providing they can
be switched off by the driver.
If, as a driver, this worries you – then rest assured that authorities
are well aware of the complexity of the job ahead. While projects
such as Bobby – and the work Mercedes-Benz has done with its
self-driving commercial vehicles – is very real, and very possible,
the legal implications and liabilities will take quite some time to
iron out. It’s tempting to skip ahead a few years and be concerned,
but it’s unlikely that customer versions of Bobby will be available in
showrooms any time soon.
You can learn more about this new chapter in car development
during the Connected Car Conference on November 11. You can
register online by following the links at dubaimotorshow.com.
WHAT’S NEW
WIN!
A GRAND TOUR
OF SWITZERLAND
GCC travellers love nothing more than to drive around in the green nature of
Switzerland and to discover new paths and attractions.
Switzerland’s tourism authority has partnered up with the Dubai Motorshow
to showcase the Grand Tour of Switzerland and to launch a great competition.
The main prize is a SEVEN DAY DRIVING HOLIDAY FOR THE WHOLE
FAMILY, named the Grand Tour of Switzerland. A comfortable Audi, courtesy
of Europcar, overnights in St. Moritz, Lugano and Interlaken and flights with
SWISS, the national airline of Switzerland.
The Grand Tour of Switzerland has been designed to give true driving fans a
real taste of the breath-taking Swiss mountain scenery. The 1600 km route will
take guests through four linguistic regions, over five Alpine passes, to eleven
UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two Biosphere Reserves and along 22 lakes. In
short, an experience to the country’s most scenic and cultural highlights, strung
together like pearls on a necklace.
Winners will also stay at the Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic. The five-star hotel
was built in 1870 in a “Belle Epoque” style by Eugène Jost and was entirely
renovated in 2010.
It is located just in front of the railway station in the heart of Montreux. For a
good rest and a relaxing moment, for a weekend or for your events, the Grand
Hotel Suisse-Majestic is the ideal place.
Montreux offers a wide panel of activities like a cruise on Geneva Lake where
steam boats offer marvelous trips to admire the region.
The Lavaux region has been declared World Heritage by the UNESCO.
VISIT & GET THE
CHANCE TO WIN:
5 DELL
NOTEBOOKS
EVERY DAY
A 2016 MAZDA
MX-5 GRAND
PRIZE
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 13
MOTORING NOSTALGIA
MOTORING NOSTALGIA
EXTRAVAGANZA
SUPPORTED BY
Classic cars bring out the enthusiast in everyone whether it be a
restored 1960s Mini Cooper S or a vintage Rolls-Royce, there’s
something that appeals to every budget and every taste.
For the first time, a host of motoring icons will join the leading
lights of the Dubai International Motor Show (DIMS) as part
of the Motoring Nostalgia Museum for classic and historically
significant cars.
Some of the world’s most desirable and collectible cars from the
1950s to the 1980s will add a vibrant new dimension to the show
for the 100,000 plus visitors expected to pass through the Dubai
World Trade Centre doors.
“This new addition to DIMS is going to be something very
special,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President,
Exhibitions & Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre.
“We are aiming to make it fun, engaging and interactive by
showcasing the great eras of the motoring industry that will take
our visitors back in time. It opens the Dubai International Motor
Show up to a wider audience who are interested in all types of cars
regardless of their age. These iconic vehicles are symbols of their
14 | DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW
A COLLECTION OF
THE FINEST AND
MOST SIGNIFICANT
CARS IN THE
HISTORY OF THE
AUTOMOBILE
FROM EUROPE,
THE UNITED STATES
AND ASIA WILL BE
DISPLAYED
generations, as well as unique pieces which represent some of the
greatest years of motoring.”
A collection of the finest and most significant cars in the history
of the automobile from Europe, the United States and Asia have
been generously loaned from Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Tomini
Classics, the Sharjah Museum and the Al Ain Classics collections
as well as from a number of proud owners from the Dubai Grand
Parade for the duration of the show.
Catherine Grennan, Head of Classic Car Division, Tomini
Classics, said: “Tomini Classics is thrilled to have the opportunity
to share our collection with the car enthusiasts who visit the
Motoring Nostalgia Museum. Our display will take the visitors on
a historical journey through motoring history with classics ranging
from the 1950s to the 80s. We believe that the Motoring Nostalgia
Museum will generate great excitement for these historically
significant classics that are visually stimulating and have become
the world’s most compelling asset class.”
Everything from a delectable 1951 Riley RMC Roadster with
its graceful, sweptback looks that defined the immediate postwar
MOTORING NOSTALGIA
period through to the model that virtually coined the “supercar”
phrase, the twin-turbocharged, all-wheel drive 1988 Porsche 959
will be on display in their dedicated auto alley located in DWTC’s
Zabeel 1 Hall.
They will join a wide variety of cars covering the full spectrum
of desire including a stunning 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, an
original Land Rover, a striking 1955 300SL Gullwing MercedesBenz and a 1974 Ferrari Dino to name just a few.
In keeping with the family friendly feel, visitors to Motoring
Nostalgia will be able to take guided tours from resident experts,
enjoy street food cuisine from Food Trucks and enjoy retro music
down memory lane throughout the five days that take enthusiasts
back to the golden age from 1950s Rock ‘n Roll to the Swinging
Sixties and beyond. Visitors will also have the opportunity to hear
forums covering topics such as how to buy and register a classic car
in the UAE.
Master craftsmen will showcase their skills and interest for
disciplines including leather stitching, to a cobbler at work as well
as artists painting, all of which shows an appreciation for classic
cars as a lifestyle just as much as a beautiful motor vehicle.
IIGNITION LIVE TALKS
I
Ignition
Live Talks is a dedicated
eengagement space where visitors
ccan interact and get personal with
kkey personalities from the motoring
world.
w
Participate in open debates on the
hottest topics from where best to
h
gget your ride customised, to off road
routes, tips and tricks.
ro
These are open, free-to-attend
ssessions hosted by influential speakers
aand personalities focused on sharing
eexperiences and a passion for driving
aand riding.
The list of speakers is being
finalised, but a lively list of debates
fi
oon the cars includes discussions on
motorsport trends; maintenance and
m
ssafety, technology and design; tuning
aand the customisation of bikes and
ccars; drifting and dune bashing, and
favoured touring routes for adventure
fa
rriders and drivers.
For an up to date list of guest
sspeakers, keep checking the DIMS
website at www.dubaimotorshow.com
w
DROP IN TO THE
ALVIS CAR
COMPANY STAND
IN ZABEEL HALL
STAND 323
ALVIS IS IN THE BUILDING
Classic British marque The Alvis Car Company plans to make
a major impact at the Dubai International Motor Show with its
Model 4.3, a modern interpretation of its classic 1930s design.
The company resumed production of the Alvis 4.3 Litre model
in 2010, 72 years after the last one was produced, after scanning the
original blueprints and reproducing the six-cylinder engine to 1936
designs but utilising modern technology for emission compliance as
well as delivering even more power.
This Alvis model was the fastest non-supercharged production car
of its day, and the all-British “Continuation Series” – the name the
company has given the new cars - live up to that heritage. Company
records show that 240 cars were originally ordered, but 77 were never
completed. The Continuation Series has been designed to fill in that
gap. It’s limited to just 77 cars worldwide and will, once sold out,
fulfil the original intention of the Alvis Board.
The company is now owned by Alan Stote who bought it in
1994. Alvis’s sister company Red Triangle restores classic Alvis
models and has produced replacement parts for owners for over 40
years. Mr Stote will participate in the live talks that form part of
the Motoring Nostalgia section of the motor show.
THIS ALVIS
MODEL WAS THE
FASTEST NONSUPERCHARGED
PRODUCTION CAR
OF ITS DAY
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2015 | PREVIEW | 15
PERFORMANCE.
THERE ARE NO SHORTCUTS.
STAND NO. Z274
FIND US ON
GO THE
DISTANCE