GAZ Issue 123 February 2017

GAZMAN

motorsport

instagaz

Audi A5 Coupe Review: Another piece of German engineering class.

Issue 123

February 2017

Gulf Auto Zone

turning around the curves

www.gazgroup.com

Gaz_Magazine Gaz Magazine

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editor’s note

FEB 2017 ISSUE 123 CGAZ709

It is Chinese New Year and in honour we have yet another amazing edition full of

GAZ Team

animalistic beasts. No beast is bigger than the Bentley Continental Supersports:

CEO/Editor-in-chief Ebrahim Al Khaja

Officially the world’s fastest 4 seater revealed here. We witnessed the launch of 2017 Subaru Impreza. Feel Again’ – the all new Nissan Maxima. We look at Porsche and

Managing Editor Arif Al Khaja

compare the leading Panamera models. A review of the 10th Annual UAE and Oman

Production Director Sawsan Al Khaja

Road Trip 2016. We take the new Porsche 911 GTS models for a spin. MotorSport: Jackson sends Bahrain 1 Racing to the top with a new World Record and Pro Mod

Editor Alexis Budda

victory. Nissan Drifts to Podium Dominance in Storming Red Bull Season Finale.

Batelco Drag 965 Achieve Major Success in 2016 Sodi World Series. Sebastien Ogier won his 4th consecutive Rallye Monte-Carlo in his Ford Fiesta World Rally Car. We

Photojournalist Ani Abraham

interview Saddadi and Isa Al Khalifa Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East – the

Online Editor Hassan Aldoy

most professional one make series in the Middle East.And the usual suspects Gaz Tech, Gaz Safety and Gazman all about the colour of your car and what it says about

Marketing & Sales

you.

Every page in our magazine is a dedication to the entire automobile fanciers all around

abzinvest.com Angelo V. Krause

and for sure you can feel it when you flip it. We as a team, had tried our best to strive hard to reach perfection. But, the driving force is always the opinion and genuine

Accounts ABz Invest

critics from you all. So, please give us your feedback on our style of presentation at Gaz@gazgroup.com. Enjoy and experience the ride, lets move together. Cheers!

Editor-in-chief Ebrahim Al Khaja

Design & Lay-out Consultant Ammar Alsadiq Photography

MK Studios Moh’d AlKhaja Aziz Al Kharaz Contributor Photographer Sanu Raj Test Drivers Osama Buflasa Ahmed Al Khaja Carina Abdul Rahman

For Editorial / Advertising Contact Gulf Auto Zone (Journalism, Publishing & Distribution), P.O. Box 524, Kingdom of Bahrain.

E-mail: gaz@gazgroup.com Tel: (+973) 17 334007, Fax: (+973)17 334008 Distributed by Al-Ayam Corp Publisher:

The information presented in this magazine was verified for its correctness from various sources. Any error, omission or inaccuracy thereafter will not be a legal responsibility of the magazine. The materials used in this magazine are the exclusive property of GAZ Journalism, Publishing & Distribution. No reproduction in any form is allowed except after receiving a written permission from the company.

Gaz_Magazine

Gaz Magazine

Printed at Awal Press. Bahrain.

contents 06

NEWS Launches Motoring Updates Motoring Economics

REVIEW

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Bentley Continental Supersports INFINITI QX50

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TEST DRIVE Audi A5 GAC GS 4 Panamera

FEATURES Car/ Bike Modified Classic Car

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EVENTS Race Car Show Rides

TECHNICAL GAZMAN 4

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New MITSUBISHI

Audio & Handsfree Phone Switch

21.8 km/Litre

Dual Airbags

Fog Lights

15� Alloy Wheels

450L Storage Capacity

Handsfree Phone Switch

STARTING FROM

BD3,999*

10 YEARS OR 1 MILLION KMS WARRANTY*

*Terms and Conditions apply

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NEWS

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons achieve new milestone with brand new Renault Store showroom

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Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons (YKA), the exclusive distributor for Renault across Bahrain, has forged a new chapter in their story with the launch and opening of Renault’s newest state-of-the-art showroom in Bahrain.

The new showroom was inaugurated in Sitra on 21 January 2017, in the presence of Farouk Almoayyed, Chairman, Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons His Excellency Bernard Regnauld-Fabre, Ambassador of France to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Marwan Haidamous, Managing Director of Renault Middle East, YKA directors and other top officials, the Almoayyed Family, media and customers.

YKA intends to transform the way their customers experience Renault, hence the rollout of the new Renault store – a new visual space identity concept, in line with Renault’s leading global standards and specifications.

The new showroom will focus on Renault’s brand identity and give customers an experience like never before. Right from their first touch point to browsing around the showroom, customers will get to experience what Renault has to offer in a new light.

Renault being a major sponsor of The French Week - which took place between 18 and 23 January – the launch date of the showroom was chosen to be in line with the

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celebrations, taking place on 21 January 2017. Commenting on the inauguration, Mona Almoayyed, Director, YK Almoayyed & Sons said “We are very proud to have achieved such a huge milestone. Our team has worked very hard to make this day possible and we are honored to be in the presence of such distinguished guests and all our wonderful clients. We hope to continue innovating and creating superior customer experiences for anyone who walks through the doors of Renault.”

Managing Director, Renault Middle East, Mr. Marwan Haidamous also remarked “Renault is consistently growing owing to leading partners like Y.K. Almoayyed, who make major investments to sustain our tremendous expansion in the Gulf Region.

In the Middle East, we have achieved 7% growth in a TIV decreasing by 21% in 2016.

Our current market share is 3.6% and that’s 1.2 points additional versus 2016. We have achieved the best M/S ever in the GCC and Egypt. With the Renault store, we are delivering a unique experience through an outlet that is modern, friendly and dynamic.

By 2017, all our showrooms in the GCC will bear the colors of Renault Store. These new facilities will offer the best customer service experience. ” YKA is proud to be able to continually deliver and innovate their superior customer service. This leap in their offering will ensure their standing as one of Bahrain’s leading and most successful automotive brands.

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NEWS

Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover to Celebrate in Grand Style the 2nd Year Anniversary of Land Rover Experience and Host the Jaguar’s Art of Performance Tour

Euro Motors, the exclusive importer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain, is ecstatic to announce that preparations are well underway for the 2nd Year Anniversary of the Land Rover Experience Bahrain, that will be held on the 17th and 18th of February, 2017 at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir.

To commemorate the very special occasion of 2 years since the inception of the first Land Rover Experience Centre in the Middle East region, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover is set to host a 2 days celebratory event consisting of LRE Experience sessions for VIPs, representatives of the media, as well as current and prospective clients, in a revamped and refurbished Land Rover Experience Lounge, boasting spacious grounds and diverse off-road tracks, on Friday, the 17th of February 2017 from 3 to 9 pm, and on Saturday, the 18th of February 2017 from 12 to 6 pm.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr.Yazid Mourad, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, said: “It is with great pleasure that I, on behalf of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, invite our esteemed guests to join our celebration of the 2nd year anniversary of the launch of the Land Rover Experience Centre. In addition to serving the Bahraini market, we are delighted to welcome our guests and prospects from all around the MENA region to the Land Rover Experience Centre, where they can enjoy the thrill of an allterrain adventure in our very own fleet of Land Rover vehicles.”

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“We are also extremely elated to announce that along with the 2nd year anniversary celebrations of the Land Rover Experience, we will be hosting the semi-finals of Jaguar’s Art of Performance Tour for the very first time in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

This includes the Jaguar Dynamic Drive event, which is an opportunity for Jaguar prospects to drive the Jaguar range of vehicles On-Road and on Open Tarmac exercises managed by Jaguar’s very own qualified instructors. By doing so, this year we will be able to offer our Jaguar enthusiasts the opportunity to experience a unique and unforgettable driving adventure. With numerous activities in store for our guests, we are extremely pleased to introduce this year a children’s section as well as a hospitality area where guests can enjoy their time in the comfort

of a relaxing ambience,” he added.

“At this point in time, I would like to express my gratitude to our honourable partners, the very experienced and professionally renowned Bahrain International Circuit, our very own team members responsible for the operations at the Land Rover Experience Centre Bahrain and the staff present at the Centre on a daily basis to ensure smooth functioning. I would also like to thank our loyal customers for their commitment and interest and the government of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the integral role they play in facilitating foreign investments and stimulating interest in the Kingdom, thereby making all this possible,” concluded Mr. Mourad.

To book your Drive, call the Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover showroom on +973 17460460.

Mob: +973 36650501 info@abzinvest.com

Design | Printing | Exhibition Interactive Media | Branding | Signboard abzinvest.com | Tel: +973 17334007 | Fax: +973 17930090 P.O Box 524 - Kingdom of Bahrain 9

NEWS

Affordable Luxury and Guaranteed Quality with the Enhanced Jaguar Land Rover APPROVED Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Program vigorous inspection and testing before being put on display, hence prospective customers are assured that the vehicles are available in the best of conditions while being extremely affordable.

Euro Motors, the exclusive importer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in the Kingdom of Bahrain, now makes purchasing one of their masterpieces ever more appealing with the Jaguar APPROVED and Land Rover APPROVED

certified pre-owned vehicle program.

With an entire floor dedicated solely for Jaguar Land Rover APPROVED vehicles, customers can browse through and select their dream cars with absolute ease. Each and every APPROVED vehicle available at the showroom goes through

Elaborating on the cost affective APPROVED vehicles campaign, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, Mr. Yazid Mourad said: “As part of our constant efforts to provide unrivalled customer experience, we at Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover are delighted to offer our loyal and prospective clients with the advantageous APPROVED pre-owned certified vehicle program. A program such as this enables us to meet the demand of the pre-owned vehicle market and facilitates in making Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles more accessible to everyone. All the vehicles in this program go through comprehensive testing which includes a multi-point inspection that covers 165 mechanical, electric and safety checks.”

Ebrahim K. Kanoo announces 2017 Land Cruiser fitted with TRD kit

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, sole distributor of Toyota vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, announced the availability of the new 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser GXR 4.6L fitted with the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) kit. The enhancements which include superior off-road capabilities and a sportier front, are the culmination of over five decades of Toyota’s off-road expertise.

Customers can order various TRD parts that enhance the vehicle’s exterior, interior and performance capabilities from Ebrahim K. Kanoo. Exterior items include front and rear bumper garnish,

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a front grille and backdoor emblem, and an over-fender set. Interior items include a carbon interior panel set and a red push-start switch with TRD’s logo.

Performance items include 18-inch alloy wheels that provide proper weight offset and brake clearance, a high-response muffler with TRD’s logo, and a skid plate to protect the vehicle’s lower body.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo Senior Manager of Toyota Marketing, Ayman Shehadeh said: “Off-road enthusiasts will absolutely love the new high-performance kit items.

Each part has been engineered, tuned and tested by TRD to ensure the best

off-road experience for drivers. It adds striking visual elements to your vehicle and makes for a much more thrilling time behind the wheel, especially if you enjoy desert driving.”

Offering an outstanding performance with a 4.6 Litre V8 Dual VVT-i engine and dynamic handling, the Land Cruiser is ideal for navigating city streets, cruising the fast lane or driving through the open desert.

The 2017 TRD-fitted Land Cruiser GXR 4.6L is now available at the Toyota Showroom in Sitra. For more information, call 17730730 or visit www.ekkanoo.com

Ebrahim K. Kanoo sponsors Japan’s National Day reception Ebrahim K. Kanoo, sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, sponsored a reception held by the Japanese Embassy to celebrate Japan’s National Day at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain hotel. The event also celebrated the birthday of His Majesty Emperor Akihito, who has been Japan’s reigning Emperor since acceding to the throne in 1989. This year marks his 83rd birthday.

H.E. Mr. Kiyoshi Asako, Ambassador of Japan in the Kingdom of Bahrain said: “We appreciate the continuous support of Ebrahim K. Kanoo on the occasion of H.M. Japanese Emperor’s Birthday Reception, and it is our pleasure to cooperate with this excellent company.”

Ebrahim K. Kanoo’s latest luxury offering, the Lexus GS F model, was also on display for guests. With a 5.0-litre V8 engine that delivers 471HP and a control system that ensures optimum brake force even while turning sharp corners, the GS F combines luxury and power to deliver a superior performance and a stylish look and feel.

The event was attended by representatives of the embassy and Ebrahim K. Kanoo, Japanese nationals and other prominent officials and dignitaries.

E. K. Kanoo sponsors 5th Juniors Open Tennis Championship for unisex Singles; Under 14s and Under 16s for unisex Doubles; and Under 16 Singles for girls. In addition, there is a Mini Tennis Festival, with over 100 children participating in unisex tennis competitions for age categories 6 to 8, and 9 to 10.

Ebrahim K. Kanoo Senior Manager of Toyota and Lexus Marketing, Ayman Shehadeh said: “It is extremely gratifying to see this kind of turnout and interest from young tennis players in Bahrain.

Learning the sport in a competitive fashion and at such a young age means they may be ready to take on professional roles in the future. We are happy to be playing a part in helping the youth of the Kingdom reach their full potentials.”

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, sponsored the 5th Juniors Open Tennis Championship, an annual event organised by the Bahrain Tennis Club. One of the most important

local tennis activities in the Kingdom, the Juniors Open Tennis Championship has been held every year since 2012. This year, the championship consists of six competitions, with categories including Under 12s, Under 14s, and Under 16s

Lexus Bahrain will also be showcasing the 2017 Lexus GS and RX Hybrid models to spectators. Hybrid technology offers improved performance and produces cleaner energy compared to traditional petrol fuel engines, which produce more carbon emissions.

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NEWS

Celebrating 50 years of MercedesAMG success

AMG – these three letters stand worldwide for supreme automotive performance, exclusivity, efficiency and highly dynamic driving pleasure. In 2017, the company founded by Hans-Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher is celebrating its 50th anniversary. In the course of this halfcentury, Mercedes-AMG has recorded numerous successes in motor sport and through the development of unique road-going vehicles, thereby repeatedly underlining its position as a highly successful sports car and performance brand – and today this is truer than ever.

Today, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, the Affalterbach-based company represents the sporting spearhead of the Group. In this anniversary year, with an eye to the future, MercedesAMG will carry on the exceptional success

story of what began as a two-man company. For each of the now around 1500 employees, the focus will be on the brand promise of “Driving Performance”, which unites the core strengths of AMG: cutting-edge technology and a passion for dynamic, emotively appealing products. The company from Affalterbach stands worldwide for outstanding engine expertise, which includes not only development, but also the “one man, one engine” philosophy, which means that each engine is, so to speak, hand-crafted by one engine builder. With almost 100,000 units delivered in 2016, i.e. over 40 percent growth, and the biggest strategic model initiative in the company’s history, AMG heads into this anniversary year with record figures under its belt.

Parking made easy: a decade of “Park Assist”

Park Assist – the first automated parking aid introduced to the automobile world

by Volkswagen – reaches its ten-year milestone in the Middle East. The feature which previously only supported a maximum of two moves for parallel parking and a clearance requirement of ‘the vehicle length plus 1.40meters’, has since become the ideal companion for drivers, particularly for those living in cities. Arriving in the region in 2007 with the Tiguan, Park Assist brought with it, a safe and convenient solution to the long-suffering car-parker. “Volkswagen engineers made it their mission to solve the universally

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common frustration of parking through pioneering innovative technologies. Over the past ten years, we’ve seen Park Assist develop from a feature with limited options to a fully-fledged, affordably innovative assistant that makes parking hassle-free for drivers,” commented Andrew Savvas, Brand Director Volkswagen Middle East.

First introduced in the Volkswagen Touran in 2006, Park Assist supported the driver by automatically performing the correct steering wheel movements to take the ideal line to park. The measurement of the parking space, the assignment of the starting position and the steering movements were automatically undertaken by the Park Assist and the driver was only required to accelerate and brake. By 2010, parking in spaces lengthwise could be done more quickly and by 2012, the option of parking at right-angles to the road was added. Thanks to ever more complex algorithms, the total of twelve ultrasonic sensors on the vehicle made it possible to consistently and precisely assess the environment, subsequently reducing the required buffer in the size of parking space significantly down to 90 centimetres.

BMW Group, Intel and Mobileye will have autonomous test vehicles on the roads by the second half of 2017 The BMW Group, Intel, and Mobileye announce a fleet of approximately 40 autonomous test vehicles that will be on the roads by the second half of 2017 The three companies reveal details about their partnering model including a scalable architecture that can be used by other auto developers.

BMW Group, Intel and Mobileye today announced that a fleet of approximately 40 autonomous BMW vehicles will be on the roads by the second half of 2017, demonstrating the significant advancements made by the three companies towards fully autonomous driving. Revealing this at a podium discussion held during a joint press conference at CES, the companies further explained that the BMW 7 Series will employ cutting-edge Intel and Mobileye technologies during global trials starting in the U.S. and Europe.

This news follows the partnership that was announced between the BMW Group, Intel and Mobileye in July of last year. The companies have since developed a scalable architecture that can be adopted by other automotive developers and carmakers to pursue state of the art designs and create differentiated brands. The offerings scale from individual key integrated modules to a complete end-to-end solution providing a wide range of differentiated consumer experiences.

SHELL SELECTED AS EXCLUSIVE SUPPLIER OF ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS GENUINE ENGINE OIL Shell today announced that it has been chosen by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd as the exclusive manufacturer and supplier of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Genuine Engine Oil. From October 2016, this oil has started to become available to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dealers around the world.

The new passenger vehicle engine oil has been developed and rigorously tested to meet the latest Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. passenger vehicle engine specifications and to work perfectly with their V12 engines. Shell PurePlus Technology, present in Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Genuine Engine Oil, helps protect the engine from power-robbing deposits and sludge. In addition, its properties enable the oil to reach peak operating efficiency sooner in challenging conditions with low oil consumption and long engine service life.

President for Lubricants Key Accounts.

“We are delighted to have been chosen to develop and supply the new passenger vehicle engine oil for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd., using our most recent innovation - Shell PurePlus Technology,” said Richard Jory, Shell’s Global Vice

Shell PurePlus Technology is a breakthrough in how passenger vehicle engine oils are formulated.

It is a patented gas-to-liquid (GTL) process, developed over 40 years of research, which converts natural gas into crystal

clear base oil. Base oil, usually made from crude oil, is the main component of finished oils and plays a vital role in the quality of the finished passenger vehicle engine oil. The base oil is produced at the Pearl GTL plant in Qatar, a partnership between Shell and Qatar Petroleum.

Nissan Vmotion 2.0 Wins EyesOn Design Award for Best Concept Vehicle at North American International Auto Show director, Nissan Global Design Strategy, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “This prestigious award, earned from top design leaders from around the world, exemplifies the enormous potential of Nissan’s newest design direction. We’re honored to be here and excited to continue to show the world the limitless capability of Nissan design.”

Nissan Vmotion 2.0 is the evolution of the “V-motion” front design signature seen on many of today’s Nissan products.

The award-winning vehicle color, Silver Copper, is a unique blend of copper and other metals, creating a layered effect with different hues and reflections in different angles.

Vmotion 2.0, a concept vehicle showcasing Nissan’s new sedan design direction, is the winner of the 2017 EyesOn Design Award for Best Concept Vehicle. The concept vehicle also received the award for Best Innovative Use of Color, Graphics and Materials.

The announcement was made Tuesday at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) EyesOn Design Awards ceremony, just a day after the vehicle’s global debut.

One of the premier awards in transportation design, the EyesOn Design Awards – selected by a panel of design leaders from around the globe – honor the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut in Detroit.

“Vmotion 2.0 offers a stunning look into the future of Nissan design – fresh and dynamic, yet cabin-focused,” said Mamoru Aoki, executive design

“In our never-ending quest for perfection, over 100 attempts were made to get this color just right,” said Nicole Fonseca, senior color and materials designer, Nissan Design America, Inc. “On our 101st try – our magic number, apparently – we discovered the perfect blend of 2 copper, silver and other metals to create this beautiful, multi-layered paint.

Thank you to EyesOn Design for this distinguished award – what an excellent testament to the future of Nissan design.”

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NEWS

ROBORACE ANNOUNCES MICHELIN AS OFFICIAL TYRE SPONSOR

Roborace names Michelin as its official tyre partner. Michelin has been working secretly at its testing facilities and sharing over 125 years of its expertise with Roborace to develop an exclusive solution for the ultimate ‘Robocar’, designed by Daniel Simon, which will feature next-generation Michelin road tyres to be used in the series.

Roborace partners with the best suppliers in the world to push the limits of autonomous development to places never imagined. The tyres are critical as they must be capable of handling the speeds and rigours of a new format of racing when the Roborace series begins. Equally, the tyres must be suitable for use on standard

The new BMW 4 Series.

Endowed with an aesthetic appeal and dynamic flair all of its own, the BMW 4 Series has stood out with its supremely assured and stylish air ever since its launch.

A total of nearly 400,000 sales worldwide (up to the end of 2016) is testimony to the tremendous allure of the BMW 4 Series, whose story began in 2013 with the arrival of the BMW 4 Series Coupe. The following year, it was joined by the BMW 4 Series Convertible and the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe to create a complete model family.

The cars are manufactured in Munich (BMW 4 Series Coupe), Regensburg (BMW 4 Series Convertible) and Dingolfing (BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe).

The new BMW 4 Series models write the next chapter in this success story with even sharper styling and revised suspension.

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road cars, as one of the key goals of the series is to develop software and hardware that accelerates the speed to market of driverless technology that will benefit the end consumer.

Michelin is the third global partner to be officially announced by Roborace, after Nvidia, which will provide Robocar’s A.I. brain with Drive PX2 technology, and Charge, the smart electric truck maker which will supply all power electronics.

“We are extremely proud to have Michelin as our partner. We expect our partners to be bold and to believe in a driverless future where our cities are greener, safer, quieter and smarter in ways that improve everyday

lives. Michelin impressed us every time we met and they deeply understand the powerful opportunity of what road travel will become. They are pushing us, and themselves, to develop a world that moves from possibility to reality. Their commitment to safety and innovation, and the way we inspire each other to design the best possible solutions makes this a perfect partnership.” Denis Sverdlov, CEO, Roborace.

“We are very excited to confirm our partnership with Roborace today. We have been following the championship’s progress very closely and have been testing privately with them for some time.

We are very impressed by the speed at which Roborace has been developing driverless technology and hardware for its championship. Driverless technology is coming and we want to be at the forefront in terms of research and development. At Michelin, we have always been committed to innovation and using global events and motorsport to take our products to the next level, Roborace now provides us with a unique opportunity to apply our expertise and knowhow to the world of autonomous cars. Michelin wants to help shape the future, not just be a part of it.”

- Pascal Couasnon, Michelin Motorsport Director. Michelin Motorsport is the official tyre supplier to and technical partner of the FIA Formula E Championship, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the FIA World Rally Championship and MotoGP™, as well as to many other competitions and events.

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NEWS

Land Rover Reveals MYLAND Falconry;

World-First Hot Air Balloon and Falconry Experiences

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Butti Bin Juma Al Maktoum, Land Rover Middle East and North Africa brings you MYLAND Falconry in partnership with Balloon Adventures Dubai, the world’s most experienced Hot Air Balloon Company and Royal Shaheen, the best falcon trainers in the business, to create a falcon experience unlike any other.

As one of the first vehicles to navigate the region, Land Rover continues to support and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East through its MYLAND (Ardhi in Arabic) creative communications platform. The most recent chapter of MYLAND sees the premium SUV brand offer adventure-seekers in the UAE a unique desert experience with hot air balloons and never-before-seen falconry demonstrations.

Speaking about the new adventure experience the project’s visionary and patron, His Highness Sheikh Butti Bin Juma Al Maktoum said: “It is our vision to build the world’s most unique falconry project of the 21st century – MYLAND Falconry is an innovative experience which will open up an ancient tradition of the Emirati culture to visitors from around the world.

Falconry has long been deeply rooted in the cultural fibers of the Middle East and it is our duty to support the modernisation of falconry heritage through this incredible project to ensure it remains an integral part of the culture of this region long after we are gone.”

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Hannah Naji, Brand Director of Jaguar Land Rover Middle East and North Africa, said: “We are extremely proud to be involved in this truly unique concept alongside our partners Royal Shaheen and Balloon Adventures. Playing a part in the heritage of the region since the introduction of our Land Rover Series I in 1948, this exciting experience is integral to our Land Rover brand promise; to celebrate and showcase the rich history of this region in exciting modern settings.”

Capturing each stage of the five month adventure, Land Rover has launched the MYLAND Falconry film series featuring stunning footage starting with the hatching of the falcons in the Scottish Highlands, where they were bred exclusively for the project. The falcons then travelled across Europe to the Balloon Adventures Italy centre

in Umbria, Italy where they underwent complex training and learned to fly while getting acclimatized to the interior of the balloon as a natural part of their surroundings.

Throughout 2,600km journey, the falcons’ trainers dedicated their time building a strong relationship with these stunning creatures to nurture trust, skill and patience, all key elements to the success of this incredibly challenging project.

Now live on the Land Rover MENA YouTube Channel, the film follows the full project from falcon inception through to hatching, training and arrival to their new home in the Dubai desert in specially adapted Land Rover vehicles.

Bookings for the World-First Hot Air Balloon Falconry Show can be made through the Balloon Adventures website or via phone enquiries on+97143884044.

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NEWS

Most successful year ever for flagship BMW 7 series as it crosses 5,000 unit mark in 2016 selling 5,098 cars, corresponding to a 69% increase over 2015 figures.

Commenting on another successful year for the brand, Johannes Seibert, Managing Director for BMW Group Middle East, said “2016 was the year of the 7 Series. It was the best year ever for our flagship model, and feedback from media and customers has been overwhelmingly positive.

Customers appreciate the combination of sportiness, quality, finesse and refinement, along with an ample array of innovative features. Also, several top hotels, airlines and airports have also decided to choose the 7 Series for their VIP shuttle services.”

• sales

BMW X models also driving

• MINI Countryman and Hatch models drive MINI sales • 2017 will see launch of the highly anticipated all-new BMW 5 Series

The BMW Group is reflecting on another positive year in the Middle East, in which sales were heavily dominated by the successful launch of the all-new 7 series, which came to markets in October 2015.

The brand’s flagship model crossed the 5,000-unit barrier for the first time,

Overall, the BMW brand increased its market share within the premium segment in 2016 to 29%. Figures showed a 3% increase in share across the region compared to 2015 as well as segment gains for the brand across most individual markets – the UAE performed the best with a 5% growth, followed by Oman and Lebanon with 2% increases respectively.

BMW at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2017 in Las Vegas

BMW is shaping the future of mobility and the way we experience it through ongoing development projects and technically revolutionary innovations in automated driving, intelligent connectivity and interior design. At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2017, taking place in Las Vegas on 5 – 8 January 2017, the German premium car maker will present a wide range of new products and services which are set to headline this radical change in the very

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near future. It will also be revealing a vision of an interior whose architecture and user interface are extensively adapted for fully automated driving on board a vehicle that is seamlessly integrated into the driver’s digital life.

The innovations BMW is presenting at the CES show in design, technology and functionality emphasise the company’s leading role over many years – through its ConnectedDrive programme – in the field of connected driving.

BMW’s pioneering advances in the areas of automated driving, intelligent connectivity and control and display systems are closely interconnected.

The company offers highly innovative systems and technologies in all these areas. Examples include the driver assistance systems available for the brand’s current model range, the BMW

Connected digital mobility companion and intuitive and flexible control and display systems such as the Head-Up Display, BMW iDrive, voice control and BMW gesture control. Such technologies provide an ideal platform for innovations aimed at delivering a futuristic mobility experience defined by hallmark BMW characteristics.

INFINITI previews ‘co-pilot’ autonomous driving support technologies at 2017 NAIAS

INFINITI today previewed ‘co-pilot’, an evolving suite of autonomous drive support technologies, at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, USA. Central to the strategy for the development of all future ‘co-pilot’ systems is that they should ensure the driver retains ultimate control over their vehicle – in keeping with INFINITI’s focus on driver engagement. Empowering rather than replacing the driver, ‘copilot’ will act as a ‘co-pilot’ and take on the management of less rewarding driving tasks, such as ensuring safe progress in stop-start traffic on the highway or keeping track of the position of surrounding vehicles.

The ‘co-pilot’ technologies showcased at NAIAS feature on the QX50 Concept, which demonstrates how a future

INFINITI premium mid-sized SUV could look and also makes its debut at the show.

Since its inception in 1989, INFINITI has brought pioneering driver-assistive technologies to the customer. The company has been responsible for a series of world-first semi-autonomous technologies, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning, drive-by-wire Direct Adaptive Steering and Active Lane Control.

Roland Krueger, President of INFINITI, commented: “INFINITI customers love to drive and our approach to autonomous driving reflects this. Equipping drivers with their very own co-pilot, the QX50 Concept lights a path to the future integration of INFINITI’s autonomous drive ‘co-pilot’ technologies, reimagining how the driver interacts with the car.”

‘co-pilot’ is designed to improve onroad safety by supporting the driver in identifying and responding to other road users and potential hazards. The technologies draw on inputs from laser scanners, radar and camera to read the road ahead and monitor the vehicle’s surroundings, and allow the car to react accordingly. ‘co-pilot’ wraps up all of INFINITI’s existing and near-future autonomous drive support technologies under one brand. The QX50 Concept’s ‘co-pilot’ system previews the first productionready incarnation of this technology package ahead of its roll-out – and further development – in the coming years.

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NEWS

New Bentley Continental Supersports: The world’s fastest four-seat car model a sharpened athletic appearance highlighting its performance potential.

As well as offering supercar pace and a highly focused driving experience, there is no compromise in the refined nature of the Continental’s ride quality.

This fusion of extremes in luxury and performance make the Supersports the ultimate iteration of a model that has come to define and dominate the grand touring genre. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, said: “The Supersports name is legendary at Bentley. From the very first Supersports of the 1920s, to the Continental Supersports of 2009 – and now with the third iteration of this iconic model – it is a name which excites, impassions and thrills. Only Bentley could create a car which blends immense performance and unrivalled luxury in this way.”

• New Continental Supersports is the pinnacle grand tourer • Fastest accelerating ever: 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds

Bentley

• (0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds); top speed of 209 mph (336 km/h) • Most powerful Bentley yet: 710 PS (700 bhp), 1,017 Nm (750 lb.ft.)

• Extreme agility combines with refinement and luxurious ride quality • Unique styling highlights performance potential; available as coupe or convertible Bentley has announced its fastest and most powerful production model to date: the new Bentley Continental Supersports.

A top speed of 209 mph (336 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds) make the new Continental Supersports the world’s fastest and most powerful luxury fourseat car.

Similarly, its soft-top sibling, the Continental Supersports Convertible, is the fastest four-seat convertible in the world, despatching the sprint to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.9 secs) on its way to a 205 mph (330 km/h) top speed. Bentley’s mighty W12 engine, redeveloped for the Supersports with new high-performance turbos and engine hardware, and a torque vectoring system create a Continental Supersports as agile as it is powerful. Meanwhile, unique styling cues inside and out give the new

20

Extreme Power and Torque; StandOut Performance A bespoke drivetrain featuring Bentley’s W12 engine combines extreme power and torque to offer exhilarating performance.

Key to the Supersports’ additional outputs are newly designed, highercapacity turbochargers and a revised charge-air cooling system which create more boost and additional power.

In order to harness these additional outputs, upgrades have also been made to the Continental’s cranktrain, including new main and conrod bearings.

These extensive engine revisions result in an increase of 80 PS (79 bhp) and 217 Nm (160 lb.ft.) over the 2009 Supersports model – a 10 percent power-to-weight and 25 percent torque-to-weight ratio improvement. The top speed rises by five miles per hour (and the 0-60 mph time drops by 0.3 seconds).

redesigned to breathe more freely and provide an unmistakeable Bentley soundtrack, with down-shifts eliciting a rifle-fire crackle.

Ultimate Handling Refinement

and

Luxury

This performance is matched by athletic handling. The Supersports has a specifically calibrated and updated version of the torque vectoring system first introduced on the Continental GT3-R. This dynamic system brakes individual front and rear wheels during acceleration out of corners to increase performance, whilst maintaining full power to unbraked wheels, and brakes the inside rear wheel on turn-in to improve agility. It also has a bespoke, less intrusive stability control calibration for a more precise chassis response.

The new Supersports retains the rearbiased torque split of Bentley’s allwheel-drive system, sending 60 per cent of the engine’s power to the rear wheels as standard for a better balanced, more sporting character, but with the ability to adjust the front-rear power split depending on available traction.

Continental Supersports Engine Type: 6-litre twin-turbocharged port injection W12 Max Power: 700 bhp / 710 PS / 522 KW @ 6,000 rpm Max Torque: 1,017 Nm / 750 lb.ft @ 2,050 – 4,500 rpm Transmission Type: ZF 8-speed automatic with Quickshift, Block Shifting and wheel-mounted paddleshift.

The Supersports also benefits from a new torque converter which locks up faster allowing the car to make best use of the enhanced torque figure of 1,017 Nm (750 lb. ft.), and accelerate from standstill even more rapidly.

In order to rein in this immense performance the new Supersports is fitted with high-performance carbon ceramic brakes with enhanced cooling.

The brake discs are the largest of their type in the world, providing excellent performance with minimal fade under extreme conditions.

The brakes sit behind lightweight 21” forged alloy wheels, together offering a 20 kg weight saving in unsprung mass.

A further 5 kg weight-saving is offered via an optional titanium exhaust system.

The new Supersports is the lightestever iteration of the current Continental GT and lighter than the 2009 four-seat Supersports model.

Enhancing the driver experience still further, the exhaust system has been

21

NEWS

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS ANNOUNCES SECOND HIGHEST SALES RECORD IN MARQUE’S 113-YEAR HISTORY of Rolls-Royce in the UK.”

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has today announced its second highest ever annual sales result in the marque’s 113-year history, up 6% on its 2015 results. A total of 4,011 cars were delivered to customers in more than 50 countries, affirming the brand’s strength and resilience in a year of challenging market conditions for luxury goods worldwide.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO, said, “This remarkable result emphatically affirms the global appeal of the very finest British luxury goods to the world’s most discerning

BMW Group Appoints Head of Corporate Communications for Middle East Region The BMW Group Regional headquarters in Dubai, responsible for BMW and MINI business operations across the Middle East, has announced the appointment of Silke Brigl as Head of Corporate Communications. Effective 01 February, 2017, Brigl succeeds Leanne Blanckenberg, who has taken on the role of Marketing Manager for Rolls-Royce Motorcars for the Asia Pacific region.

With a career at BMW Group that spans 10 years, Brigl has worked in various Corporate Communications positions including Electronic Media, ConnectedDrive and Research and Development. In her most recent role, she has been based in Munich as the Spokesperson for the BMW 1 and 2 Series, Light and Sight and Ergonomics.

Commenting on Brigl’s appointment, Johannes Seibert, Managing Director for BMW Group Middle East, said: “It’s a great pleasure to welcome Silke to the Middle

22

patrons. Rolls-Royce is a true Great British manufacturing success story, one driven by the hard work and ingenuity of the men and women employed at our Centre of Luxury Excellence in Goodwood, West Sussex.

We are deeply committed to a long term, sustainable, successful growth strategy and this result, amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty, affirms this approach. 2016 has proven the perfect year to sign off the successful first chapter of the renaissance of Rolls-Royce. Success for Rolls-Royce is success for Great Britain and we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining the Home East where she will share her considerable experience with our team across the region, as well as our importer partners. We believe her arrival to the region will enable her to contribute to the strengthening of our position in the premium automotive segment in the Middle East. We look

The company recorded its highest-ever sales in key global markets including the Americas (up 12%), Europe (up 28%) and Asia Pacific (up 5%). A number of individual markets also exceeded previous records, notably Japan (up 51%), Germany (up 30%), the UK - the marque’s home market - (up 26%), China (up 23%) and the USA (up 10%).

The only major region where conditions remained difficult was the Middle East where consumer demand for all luxury goods was dampened by economic and political uncertainty. However, despite these challenging market conditions, the Middle East ended the year as the third largest market in 2016, while Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai earned the accolade of the highest selling dealership globally.

As part of its commitment to longterm sustainable growth, Rolls-Royce announced six new dealerships during 2016, bringing the global dealership network to 136. New launches included the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Studio in South Korea and an innovative boutique-style concept in Dubai.

forward in welcoming her as our new Head of Corporate Communications.”

Silke Brigl holds a Masters Degree in Media and Communication Management as well as English and History. Furthermore, she also has a diploma in TV journalism.

Motorcity Bahrain Debuts 2017 Subaru Impreza

Motorcity, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, unveiled the all-new 2017 Subaru Impreza on the sidelines of the two-day Subaru Annual Middle East and Africa (MEA) Distributors meeting, held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Motorcity and Bahrain were selected to host the annual conference this year, which was attended by more than 60 participants from the MEA region, including the manufacturer’s senior management from Japan. “Subaru has developed a very loyal customer base in Bahrain,” said Motorcity Senior General Manager, Bijan Majidi. “This is the reflection of our continuous efforts to provide one of the best products with the highest customer service and satisfaction. I am very pleased that Bahrain was chosen to host Subaru’s Annual Middle East and Africa Distributors Meeting which gave us the opportunity to share and exchange experiences with our colleagues from several other countries.”

In occasion of the Subaru MEA Distributors meeting in Bahrain, Motorcity introduced the ALL NEW 2017 Impreza and debuted several first-of-its-kind features, including Subaru Global Platform architecture designed to deliver significantly higher levels of driving

agility, increased protection against crashes, and added levels of ride comfort. The technology will be the underpinning platform in a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles.

It also debuted Subaru’s new design language, which incorporates the brand’s signature hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights into a more sculptural body, with an increase in body structure rigidity of over 70 percent, and a 40 percent improvement in crash energy absorption than the previous model.

The Impreza 2.0i and 2.0i Sport are available as 4-door sedans, with a revised version of the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine that now gains from direct fuel injection and other performance boosting enhancements, to generate 152 horsepower compared to its previous output of 148. The Impreza Sport features 17-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension and Active Torque Vectoring, exclusive exterior styling and upgrades such as an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system, keyless access, push-button start, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and many other features.

For more information or to book a test drive, visit Motorcity showrooms in Sitra or call 17736222.

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NEWS

NEW JAGUAR F-TYPE DEBUTS WITH WORLD-FIRST GOPRO TECHNOLOGY operation, intelligent navigation functions such as Share ETA and online services such as real-time traffic and live weather reports make every journey more rewarding and put a world of information at the driver’s fingertips.

True enthusiasts will be able to capture and share their driving experiences using the new ReRun app developed in collaboration with GoPro. In a worldfirst, ReRun combines real-time video from the driver’s GoPro with key vehicle performance data including speed, throttle position, gear selection, braking force and g force. The high quality video – including unique ‘highlights’ sections – can be downloaded to the driver’s smartphone and shared on social media • New announced

Jaguar

F-TYPE

range

• State-of-the-art technology, new look exterior and exclusive 400 SPORT launch edition • New R-Dynamic model with 340PS and 380PS engines gives customers more choice • World-first ReRun app developed with GoPro creates high quality video with real-time performance data • World-class, super-fast Touch Pro infotainment system now available on every F-TYPE • New full-LED headlights and front bumpers give the F-TYPE a distinctive new look • Lightweight slimline seats offer improved ergonomics and comfort and deliver a weight saving of more than 8kg • The new F-TYPE range goes on sale from the second quarter 2017 Already recognised as the most dynamically capable, performancefocused Jaguar, the F-TYPE sports car continues to evolve, with a fresh look, state-of-the-art infotainment system and world-first ReRun app that combines vehicle data with GoPro video to enhance the driving experience.

Since launch in 2012, Jaguar’s allaluminium two-seater has firmly established itself as the best-selling sports car in its segment in its home market and has won nearly 160 awards

24

worldwide. The unrivalled balance of seductive design, stunning performance and outstanding dynamics has always made the F-TYPE unique, in a range that has evolved to include Coupé bodystyles, manual transmissions and intelligent all-wheel drive.

The new F-TYPE range offers even more driver-focused technology and a broader model range than ever, comprising 28 derivatives from the purist appeal of the rear-wheel drive, 340PS F-TYPE to the 200mph (322kmph), all-wheel drive F-TYPE SVR – Jaguar’s all-weather supercar.

Every F-TYPE now features the Touch Pro infotainment system. Its superfast responses, intuitive tablet-style

The F-TYPE’s award-wining design is stronger and more focused, with clearer visual range differentiation thanks to model-specific front bumpers. Full LED headlights boost visual appeal still further and help improve driver safety and comfort.

“Great sports car design is about proportion and purity. The most challenging element of the process for designers is to focus on and maintain an exciting silhouette that promises performance. For the 2018 model year F-TYPE, we looked at how we could fine-tune key details to deliver even more clarity of purpose in the overall design – for the driver, the passenger and onlookers.” Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar.

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons announce winners of ‘Shake and Win’ campaign

Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons, exclusive dealers of Renault in the Kingdom of Bahrain, are delighted to announce the winners of the ‘My Renault – Shake and Win’ campaign. Rahul Bhavan and Vincent Hua have emerged victorious winning gift vouchers for an accessories pack worth EUR 400 (BHD 160).

The contest required participants to download the application ‘My Renault’ on their mobile phones and on completion they were instructed to shake the device,

following which their details were directly submitted to an online raffle draw for the chance to win rewards like one-year free service, an accessories pack and the grand prize of a Renault Captur.

to the online draw. Mr. S Sreekumar, General Manager, Renault Bahrain said, “This was a unique opportunity for our customers to be able to connect with the brand and Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons are pleased with the overall response and success of the campaign. Besides, it was the ideal platform to bring customers together to build brand loyalty and create greater awareness of the My_ Renault app.” The contest emerged with a total of 25 winners from Egypt and the GCC region. Four winners were announced every week. One lucky winner will win a brand new Renault Captur, which will be announced on 20 January, 2017. The “My_Renault” App can be downloaded from Play Store and Apple Store.

The campaign ran from 27 November, 2016 to 10 January, 2017 across the region and included countries like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman and Egypt. The winners were randomly selected after the registered entries were exported

SO FRENCH 2017 AL HAWAJ PROMOTION any Al Hawaj shops, the customer gets a raffle ticket. The raffle draw will be on 2nd April 2017 at 11 am at Seef Mall.

Al Hawaj Managing Director Mr. Jawad Y. Al Hawaj led the presentation of French products to the Ambassador followed by the General Manager Mr. Abdul Wahab Y. Al Hawaj. Also present on the occasion were Mr. Hussein Y. Al Hawaj, Mr. Mohammed Jawad Al Hawaj, Mr. Yusuf Abdul Wahab Al Hawaj, Operations Manager Mr. Shyam Narayanan and Retail Manager Mr. Hazem Elrazek and other officials; as well as members of the press.

French Ambassador H.E. Bernard Regnauld-Fabre graced the So French 2017 Al Hawaj Promotion on Thursday, 19rd January at Al Hawaj outlet in Bahrain City Centre. The promotion runs from 20 January – 31 March for all products in all outlets of Al Hawaj.

The event featured French-themed displays and special promotions for French products. Another highlight was the visit of the French Ambassador and

other VIP personalities during the event.

This collaboration aims to strengthen ties between France and Bahrain.

The So French 2017 Al Hawaj promotion will feature major raffle prizes of Renault Capture French car as 1st Prize filled with French branded perfumes, 2nd prize of Charles Jourdan watches with diamonds for 15 winners and 3rd prize will win French Perfumes in a tree for 5 winners.

In every BD20 worth of purchase from

25

NEWS

Experience the Power of h with Lexus

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, sole distributor of Lexus vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, invites automobiles technology enthusiasts to experience the power of h with the new Lexus GS450h and RX450h.

The two hybrid models redefine luxury in an age of responsible consumption, while still adhering to Lexus’s brand values of high quality, craftsmanship, exhilarating performance and imaginative technology.

The GS450h comprises a 3.5-litre V6

direct-injection petrol engine and a highoutput electric motor, which delivers 341 HP. Acceleration is both smooth and incredibly rapid (100 km/h in 5.9 seconds), with full tank mileage up to 1,047 km, while CO2 emissions are reduced by 35%.

The RX450h is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine and front-mounted electric motor to generate a total output of 308 HP, with 1,048 km full tank mileage and a more than 30% reduction in emissions.

“In terms of performance there is no compromise at all, and in fact it is even better than traditional power trains, with the electric component also prolonging the life of the vehicle. The hybrid also uses less gasoline and offers lower exhaust emissions,” remarks Senior Manager of Lexus Marketing, Ayman Shehadeh. “We also offer an unmatched 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery.

For environmentally-minded consumers and car enthusiasts alike, Lexus hybrids are a wise choice.”

New ‘Hydrogen Council’ launches in Davos Thirteen leading energy, transport and industry companies have recently launched a global initiative to voice a united vision and long-term ambition for hydrogen to foster the energy transition.

In the first global initiative of its kind, the Hydrogen Council is determined to position hydrogen among the key solutions of the energy transition.

Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier with favorable characteristics since it does not release any CO2 at the point of use as a clean fuel or energy source, and can play an important role in the transition to a clean, low-carbon, energy system.

Hydrogen technologies and products have significantly progressed over past years and are now being introduced to the market. The Council will work with, and provide recommendations to, a number of key stakeholders such as policy makers, business and hydrogen players, international agencies and civil society to achieve these goals.

26

Feel Again’ - all new nissan maxima

The completely redesigned 8th generation Maxima is the sportiest and most powerful Maxima ever built. The Nissan Maxima further reinforces the ‘Feel Again’ slogan and proposition.

The completely redesigned vehicle showcases Nissan’s new design language. In fact, this new vehicle was developed using the Blue Angels based at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida, USA, as inspiration.

The Nissan Maxima’s totally redesigned interior is anchored by a command centre like a driver’s cockpit and incorporates bespoke craftsmanship. The interior matches that which luxury vehicles offer, and provides and exhilarating experience for both driver and passengers alike At the heart of the Nissan Maxima is a responsive 3.5 L VQ Series V6 that generates an incredible 300 horsepower.

This power plant is complemented by a new performance-oriented Xtronic transmission that allows for faster acceleration.

To test drive the Nissan Maxima, visit any of the Nissan Showroom in Sitra, Arad and Exhibition Road or give us a call 17 732732, 17221555 or 17002222.

27

FEATURE

Porsche showcases new segment

Featuring redeveloped engines, reinterpreted design and a new range of assistance systems, the second generation of Porsche’s luxury four-door saloon was showcased this week by the Stuttgartbased manufacturer at a drive event. A road tour incorporating routes around the Emirate of Dubai demonstrated the Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo’s abilities in further extending the boundaries between ambitious sports car and comfortable sedan.

Following a comprehensive overhaul of the model’s concept, new technical advancements, such as rear axle steering, electromechanical roll stabilisation and a three-chamber air suspension, have been

28

introduced. Meanwhile inside, a completely new display and control concept greets the driver and passengers upon entry. Touchsensitive surfaces replace classic hard keys, and high-resolution displays merge into the interior.

During the launch event, Deesch Papke, Chief Executive Officer of Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE, commented: “We are proud to showcase this executive saloon that typifies Porsche’s operating philosophy.

The undeniable performance of the new engines, introduction of a futuristic interior concept, and range of driver-focused assistant systems make this four-door sports car an embodiment of comfort, performance

and luxury presented in the most beautiful form. The new Panamera model range demonstrates that we don’t just talk about segment-leading cars, we produce them.”

Also commenting on the new model, Dr. Gernot Döllner, Vice President, Product Line Panamera, Porsche AG said: “Our aim for the second generation of the Panamera was to enhance an already successful concept of a saloon that bridges the gap between sports car and passenger car.

Once again our development teams have successfully mastered the challenge.

The new model range is infused with the unique characteristics of typical Porsche performance and design DNA, whilst also

leading Panamera models

providing a generous amount of space for four people. It is a model fuelled by the power of opposites and we truly believe it is the best car you can find in its segment.”

New engines and transmission New six- and eight-cylinder twin-turbo engines have been introduced to produce more power, whilst significantly improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.

The brand’s first eight-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission enables an even better gear ratio spread alongside a reduction in fuel consumption.

Panamera 4S The 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo engine of

the Panamera 4S is a completely new development, which produces 440 hp, available at 5,650 rpm and represents a 20 hp increase from the previous model.

Reaching 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds (4.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package), the Panamera 4S has a top speed of 289 km/h. A NEDC combined fuel consumption of 8.2 – 8.1 l/100 km (186 – 184 g/km CO2) means that the new Panamera 4S offers a fuel saving of up to 1.0 l/100 km or 11 per cent in comparison to the first generation model.

Panamera Turbo With its powerful petrol engine, the Panamera Turbo’s new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 develops

550 hp at 5,750 rpm, with a maximum torque of 770 Nm between 1,960 and 4,500 rpm.

It has 30 hp more than its predecessor as well as a torque increase of 70 Nm. The new Panamera Turbo accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, whilst with the Sport Chrono Package the sprint time is down to 3.6 seconds. The new turbo model features a top speed of 306 km/h and a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.6 kg/hp. A lower combined fuel consumption of 9.4 – 9.3 l/100 km, is up to 1.1 l/100 km less than that of the previous model (NEDC), therefore equating to CO2 emissions of 214 – 212 g/km.

When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package featuring launch control,

29

FEATURE engine response can be further increased using the mode switch on the steering wheel. It was first introduced in the Porsche 918 Spyder, is an intuitively operated rotary ring, which can be used to activate one of four driving modes (Normal, Sport, Sport Plus or Individual). Located at the centre of the switch is the Sport Response Button. It can be used to free up the maximum power potential of the Panamera at the press of a button.

New design philosophy At first glance, the unique concept and performance credentials of Porsche’s latest four-door sports car are reflected in a new design which creates a stylistic link to the

Advanced Cockpit.

The gearshift console between the driver and the front passenger is dominated by the 12.3-inch touchscreen of the new generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, which the driver and front passenger can configure individually.

Naturally featured in the PCM are Porsche Connect, smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and a new voice control system that responds to natural language input.

In addition, the Porsche Panamera offers the best layout variability of any model in the luxury class, making it the most practical for everyday use with a 40:20:40 split of the

30

brand’s iconic 911. The sharpened exterior includes a completely new front-end, with a crossbar in the radiator grille emphasising the car’s width and an arrow-shaped bonnet that features a prominently contoured powerdome. The Panamera’s wheelbase has been increased by 30 mm while the front wheels have been shifted forward, giving the car a more powerful appearance.

LED headlights with four-point LED daytime running lights and larger wheels also add to a sporty look.

The rear of the vehicle now further highlights the Panamera’s four-door coupé credentials, distinguishing it from a conventional saloon.

Features, such as the three-dimensional LED

folding rear bench backrests (495 to 1,304 litres of luggage capacity). Raising the comfort experience of the Panamera to an entirely new level are new equipment options such as the panoramic tilt roof, massage seats, ambient lighting and a 3D high-end sound system from Burmester.

New generation assistance systems The Panamera is equipped with a range of standard and optional assistance systems which make life while driving more convenient as well as safer. Night Vision Assistant is a new feature which uses a thermal imaging camera to detect people and large animals by displaying a

rear lights that include integrated four-point brake lights, interconnected by a narrow LED strip, result in a distinctive night design.

Futuristic interior concept With a redesigned interior, the new Panamera has been reinterpreted for the future, through black panel surfaces and interactive displays which combine to present an intuitive user interface similar to a smartphone. For the benefit of the driver, front and rear passengers, classic hard keys and conventional instruments have been significantly reduced. Instead they have been replaced with touch-sensitive panels and individually configurable displays which take centre stage in the new Porsche

colour highlighted warning indicator in the cockpit. If the new LED Matrix Headlights (with 84 image points) are selected, people beyond the visual range of the dipped beam headlight are also illuminated briefly, should they be in the computed driving corridor, enabling the driver to avoid critical situations in advance.

Looking further ahead is the new Porsche InnoDrive system, which includes adaptive cruise control. Based on navigation data and signals from radar and video sensors, it computes and activates the optimal acceleration and deceleration rates as well

as gear selections and coasting phases, for the next three kilometres. In doing so, this electronic co-pilot automatically takes bends, inclines and speed limits into account.

Presenting a harmonious balance between dynamic driving, comfort and luxury, the new Panamera has been developed for sports car drivers who appreciate four doors and four seats. With a new lap record of 7 minutes 38 seconds on the legendary NĂźrburgringNordschleife circuit, the Panamera Turbo has already demonstrated the undeniable performance heights Porsche has reached with this new model.

31

FEATURE

The 10th Annual UAE and Oman Trip Dec 2016

On the drive back we stopped in the city of Khorefkan and we slept there for one night and then it was on to Khasab City where we stayed one night. After that we decided to visit the bright lights of Dubai and we slept one night there before we rode all the way back home to the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Amazingly we managed 4,500 kilometres in total on this breath-taking journey. It was amazing and we can’t wait for next years.

A huge thanks to all the people that helped us along the way and also: It is the perfect time for exploring on bikes at this time of year and so it was that the annual trip to Oman and UAE went ahead in December 2016. We started in Bahrain and then went across the causeway to KSA. It was a very fast trip down to the UAE for a well needed rest and some sleep and then it was off to the Jebel Hafeet area and green Mubazarrah in the city of Al Ain. After that we continued on to Oman through AlHoukaan in Rustaq district. After that it was a fairly short ride to the capital Muscat where we all stayed for five nights. Whilst we were based in Muscat we went on some rides to some beautiful touristy spots like Wadi Bani Khaled, Wadi Shab and Saad Wadi Theqa.

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Bahrain Motorcycle Club who organised the trip.

Al Ezzel Power Company for sponsoring the trip.

Gaz for their media coverage.

And finally big thanks to our member Hussain Almohri for his generosity and hospitality.

33

FEATURE

the performance guru

Last week I had the pleasure to talk to Ahmed Sadadi of the legendary Sadadi Performance Shop. He doesn’t need any introduction as he is one of the most famous faces in motor circles in Bahrain.

He told me about he was born in a racing car shop and was raised by his cousin the legend Hassan Sadadi. Driving and cars were in his blood from a very early age. He spoke a lot about how much his cousin meant to him and I asked if he was also interested in bikes or anything else but he told me he was only in cars and his only driving hero was his cousin.

I asked him if he ever got into any trouble

as a youngster driving cars and he said that it is not about getting into trouble that is important it is about how you deal with trouble that is the most important thing.

We talked about if he was under any pressure to get a “real� job when he was younger and he told me that he had been as being a business owner is difficult especially if you are dealing with a niche market like high end cars or expensive parts. Also, car enthusiasts are all very different people so it is hard dealing with all these different types of customers and still having to travel around the world

racing and also being the boss. It felt to him like the business was running him not the other way round and he was a real victim of his own success.

One thing that is obvious about Ahmed is how much he knows about cars. He is like the Wikipedia of cars and I wanted to know where he obtained that knowledge from. He was working on cars from the age of 15 with his cousin Hassan and he also worked at Euro Motors, RUF Bahrain and SMS and then he eventually decided to put his knowledge to the test

34

and do it all on his own. A brave man.

His Dad kept telling him that he should put his skills and passion to the test and start on his own and this was the major push factor to start his own garage. He remembers that his Dad told him that he should have the cake all for him and that is what he has done. He constantly keeps up with the latest car news and innovations and he is not afraid to ask people questions and use other people’s experience to help him. He trusts his own ability and knowledge and that has made him the man he is. His garage is all about quality and maintaining high standards and I wanted to know how he achieves those levels. He told me that it all went back to working with the Germans at RUF they had two ways of working the right way and the wrong way. They made sure that you did stuff the right way and that was what I learnt from them.

You can never believe that you are the finished article you must continue to set yourself goals and work just as hard to maintain those high standards and that was why he moved to a bigger garage so he could continue to deliver those and that he could offer new services as well.

We then started to chat about our favourite cars and Ahmed typically found it hard to choose a favourite car as he loves so many. His first car was a 1994 Camaro Z28 one of my particular favourites and he now owns his dream car a 2010 ZR1 Corvette another beauty.

He tells me that his dreams have not stopped and that he is dreaming about the Porsche 991 Turbo S. I think we know his type of car‌‌. At the moment he is driving the Lexus 300 GS.

35

TEST DRIVE

Another piece of German engineering class Audi A5 Coupe

Photography: Moh’d Alkhaja - BIC

36

Quick Look Model

A5 Copue

Engine

Turbo 2.0L Inline-4

Max Power

252 hp

Max Torque

273 LB FT

0-100

6.4 sec

37

TEST DRIVE

What can you say about Audi that hasn’t already be said? They are constantly producing excellent drives with classic German efficiency. I went to take the 2017 A5 Coupe for a spin.

It is a fair point to say luxury coupes are a very busy market and you can say that luxury German coupes are a busy market all on its own. Audi have three versions of the A5 for you to decide upon. They have the Coupe, the Sportback and the Cabriolet. Alongside this are the S5’s in the same three categories. Luckily my decision was made up for me and I was taking the A5 Coupe for a ride.

I hope you are just as decisive when you get to choose the A5 you buy.

First impressions are that it just looks as spectacular as you have come to expect from Audi. It is classically Audi and yet it just looks fresher. One of the best things about owning an Audi is that it always looks good.

They look as relevant now as they do in five years’ time. The A5 looks a little sportier than its predecessor. It somehow manages to combine luxury and fun. Inside it is yet more classic Audi, the increased space is as a result of the longer wheelbase and it is very spacious. The cockpit is a thing of brilliance all chrome and leather working together beautifully.

The infotainment is spot on. You have all the usual suspects and the classic Audi circle.

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The Virtual Cockpit looks amazing with the 12.3 inch TFT display. It feels futuristic and the music sounded great.

Under the bonnet the A5 is a powerful machine. It has a choice of two TFSI engines.

They range from 170 hp to 272hp. I of course had the bigger engine of the two and we clocked the car going from 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds which is seriously nifty. I can only imagine how much fun the S5 is to drive as that can shift from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. You can really feel that turbo charged engine when you put your foot down on the open road.

Driving it is great. It is so quiet I did think that maybe I hadn’t switched it on. The car is 60kg lighter than the last version so it doesn’t have to do as much to keep up the pace and this means you’ll be spending less on petrol.

It is 22% more economical and 17% more powerful. Soon to be launched Sport back Cabriolet and performance based S5 variants, stay tuned for the updates.

At the end of the day a bit like Apple and Samsung it all goes down to which one your prefer. I’ve driven the BMW 4 series and the Mercedes C-class and for me there is not much difference between all three but for me what makes the Audi more impressive is how you feel in that cockpit and the fact you can customise it all is just the cherry on the cake.

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TEST DRIVE

well priced crossover GAC GS4

Photography: Moh’d Alkhaja - Arad Fort

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Quick Look Model

GAC GS4

Engine

1.3T MT/DCT

Max Power

101/5500

Max Torque

202/1500- 4200

Max Speed

220 kmph

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TEST DRIVE

There are some days when my boss gives me a job and it’s like being a child again test driving a Ferrari or a Lambo. Sometimes I have to pinch myself and tell myself that I am getting paid to drive this car. Other times it’s like being forced to go to the dentist without any anaesthetic. I was worried that it might be one of those dentist days when I was given the task of reviewing the GAC GS4.

First of all GAC it stands for Guangzhou Automobile Company so it was a good move to call it GAC. Secondly it is obviously Chinese and I don’t have the best history with Chinese cars. I once was asked to review a Ssangyong and destroyed it on the dunes in Oman so we are not the best of pals. But is it time to move on from these views. I’m sure Korean and Japanese cars had similar tough times when they started to move onto the American and European market and what I do know about the Chinese is that they love their cars.

On first view I was pleasantly surprised it looks very similar to a Hyundai, don’t know what I was expecting but looks wise it’s a good solid choice. It is quite high off the ground so I am sure that you can do some off-roading but it is definitely more a compact SUV along the lines of a RAV4.

Inside is spacious enough for a compact and

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they have some tech in it in the form of an 8 inch HD touch screen. The one thing I particularly like is the gear stick which makes you feel like you are flying a jet plane.

The drive was good. It is very smooth but does lack a bit of power as you would expect from a compact SUV. The engine is a 230T engine with a 7 speed G-DCT. It is certainly responsive enough. It is a good car for someone that just likes short journeys. For a long time Chinese cars were seen as quite dangerous to drive but the GS4 comes with six airbags and the G9 Bosch ESP which can save your car in the event of a slide.

It is almost Chinese New Year so I can’t be too critical of this car and as it is the year of the rooster I am not sure if this car is the car to send the rooster’s home but it is definitely a decent car to drive and let us not forget the price. The GS4 is very well priced and that must appeal to anyone looking for a first car or maybe a present to their children on passing their exams. This could well be the car that puts China on the automobile map and it is one day going to be a major player.

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REVIEW

Dynamic, comfortable and efficient

the new Porsche 911 GTS models

Porsche is expanding the 911 product line with a range of new GTS models. A total of five variants will be launched, this includes: the 911 Carrera GTS (with rear-wheel drive), the 911 Carrera 4 GTS (with all-wheel drive) – both available as a Coupé or Cabriolet – along with the all-wheel drive 911 Targa 4 GTS. A newly developed turbocharger for the 3.0-litre six-cylinder flat engine increases power to 450 hp (331 kW), delivering 30 hp (22 kW) more than the 911 Carrera S and 20 hp (15 kW) more than the naturally aspirated engine of the corresponding prior GTS model.

All newly launched variants are available with a manual seven-gear transmission or the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK).

More power for more performance

With a maximum torque of 550 Nm, available between 2150 and 5000 rpm, the new GTS models provide even better acceleration and elasticity figures. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is included as standard on all GTS models, whilst the Coupés feature the PASM sports chassis, which lowers the vehicle’s body by ten millimetres. The fastest sprinter in the family is the 911 Carrera 4 GTS Coupé, with Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) and the Sport Chrono Package as standard,

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the variant races from zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds.

All GTS models feature a top speed in excess of 300 km/h, with the frontrunner of the range at 312 km/h being the Coupé, with manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. Despite the increase in performance, the GTS remains efficient – the 911 Carrera GTS with PDK for example, consumes only 8.3 l/100 km according to the NEDC. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 188 g/km.

Typical GTS design: sporty styling elements both inside and out

GTS models traditionally stand out within the 911 model line not only in terms of technology, but also in relation to their visual design. All of the vehicles are based on the wide all-wheel-drive chassis, which measures 1852 mm, including on the rearwheel-drive models. The new Sport Design front apron emphasises the sporty model’s character. An aerodynamically optimised

front end featuring a low front spoiler, as well as the increased rear spoiler extension height, all further reduce the lift forces on the front and rear axles, in comparison to existing Carrera S models.

At the rear, the GTS is unmistakeable, thanks to smoked tail lights, silk-gloss black air intake grille and central black twin tailpipes for sports exhaust system, which is included as standard. A new black trim strip between the tail lights characterises the rear-wheeldrive models, with a light strip reserved for the all-wheel-drive models. Sport Design exterior mirrors, 20-inch wheels with central locking device painted in silk-gloss black and GTS logos on the doors complete the side view. The characteristic Targa bar, which is supplied in black for the first time on the GTS, also lends the 911 Targa a particularly distinctive look.

High-quality equipment

GTS genes also shape the interior, this includes the Sport Chrono Package stopwatch which is integrated as a central component of the dashboard. Meanwhile, driver and passenger sit on Alcantara seats with a new stitching pattern. The Sports seats Plus with GTS logos on the headrests can be adjusted in 4-ways electrically and provide increased lateral support and comfort. Other features include brushed, black anodised aluminium trim strips on the instrument cluster, as well as a high proportion of Alcantara, which can be found on the steering wheel rim, centre console and armrests.

The new 911 GTS models are available to order now, basic retail prices in Bahrain are as follows: 911 Carrera GTS BHD 48,300 911 Carrera 4 GTS BHD 51,000 911 Carrera GTS Cabrio BHD 52,500 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabrio BHD 55,200 911 Targa 4 GTS BHD 55,200

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INTERVIEW

turning around the curves

The most professional one-make series in the Middle East Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East Motorsport fans have been treated to a thrilling opening two rounds of the region’s most competitive and most professional racing series, the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East. The new season got underway on 18th November at Bahrain International Circuit as part of the wellknown World Endurance Championship.

Regarded as the purest form of racing with all drivers competing in identical fifth generation Porsche 911 GT3 Cups, the unique one-make series consists of 12 races between November 2016 and April 2017.

With the eighth season of the championship continuing with the aim of providing a platform to establish more homegrown Arab racing talent, the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East also plays host to some of the leading up-and-coming drivers from Europe and around the world.

Season 8 has 16 drivers’ from 12 different countries, including nine newcomers to the series – this has proved the perfect recipe for action-packed racing and the most exciting season yet. Four races into the 12 race season and there is nothing to split the top two drivers, Ryan Cullen and Charlie Frijns, both sitting level on 90 points each.

Everything is building up towards an incredible climax for the final race, held as an official support race to the incredible Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix in April.

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As a young racing driver, how would you describe your experience has been in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East?

I think for young local drivers like myself, the championship is a great opportunity to test our driving skills against racing professionals from different backgrounds and racing experiences. This racing series is a step towards my dream of being a professional racing driver and it’s my first full championship debut. Coming from a background of Go-Karting, the GT3 Cup car surely feels different but I’m focused on nothing less than enjoying the process of learning about the series, the car and myself

as a driver. It feels so special to be on the podium – it has definitely been great to also see my father proud of my success.

How would you rate the level of competition? How do you think the new GCC Rookie Championship helps open up new doors for young drivers in the Middle East?

There is no doubt that the competition is very high with a lot of newcomers joining the series this year, some with racing experience from Europe and past seasons. Though it’s great to be on the track battling with the drivers, the new GCC Rookie Championship category definitely helps keep the

competition in line with myself and the other young regional drivers – it’s another reason to drive in this series and compete against drivers from our own age. Needless to say, we will all be working hard to win the GCC Rookie Championship and I’m really excited to see where the season will take me.

What are your ultimate goals in your motorsport career? How does participating in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East help you achieve them?

My ultimate goal is to race in Le Mans!

Participating in this series allows me to build my motorsport career, to further develop myself to race in Europe and then get into endurance racing which is something I’m passionate about. The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East has proven to be the perfect platform to accelerate driving skills – a lot of participating drivers in GT3 have also taken part in other racing series in Europe like the Porsche Supercup which makes me feel hopeful and optimistic about the future.

What is the one thing you like to do before getting behind the wheel for a race?

I like to get into my car, clear my mind and have a calm moment to imagine myself on the track driving the race – turning around the curves, overtaking other drivers and staying ahead to secure a good win.

Since the start of the season, what have you learned about yourself so far?

I learned to be confident. I joined the series quite nervous and overwhelmed about racing on such a professional level but I’m definitely focused on enjoying the races and the positives behind taking part in this challenge. Though the competition on the track is very high, drivers of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East are very welcoming to share advice and data around what has worked well for them. This has really helped boost my confidence and get more comfortable.

Tell us how you got into racing and what you like most about being a car racer?

I’ve always been fond of cars – for as long as I can remember, motorsport has always been my passion and blew me away. From the age of 7, my interest in racing grew and next thing I knew, I got into Go-Karting a year later. That’s how it all began. With racing, anything can happen at any second and that adrenaline rush is one of my favorite parts of being a car racer.

Round 3 Race 1 at Dubai Autodrome will kick off on Friday 27th January with Race 2 on Saturday 28th January and can be followed on the official website: www.gt3cupchallenge-me.com or on the social channels: www.facebook.com/porscheGT3CCME Twitter @PorscheGT3CCME Instagram @porscheGT3me

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MOTORSPORT

Jackson sends Bahrain1Racing to the top with new World Record and Pro Mod victory Steve Jackson set a new Pro Mod Fight World Record en route to claiming a fantastic victory in the highly competitive category during round three of the 2016/2017 Bahrain Drag Racing Championship-Arabian Pro Series.

Driving for Bahrain1Racing Team in his 1969 Chevy Camaro, Jackson registered a blistering time of 3.640 seconds with a speed of 324.75kph down Bahrain International Circuit’s (BIC) world-class quarter-mile drag strip on Friday.

The American won his semi-final head-tohead with Mahana Naemi and in the process shattered the old World Record of 3.663s, set by compatriot Lizzy Musi at 326.21kph.

Interestingly, Musi had set the previous World Record just the night before on Thursday during qualifying.

By setting the new best mark, Jackson lived up to his nickname of “Stevie Fast” and he provided the highlight of the weekend’s action at “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East”.

Jackson then moved on to defeat E Kanoo Racing Team star Khaled Mohammed by just two-hundredths-of-a-second in the Pro Mod final to cap a brilliant night out in Sakhir.

Earlier, in the quarter-finals, Jackson got the better of Mustafa Al Atat to set up his meeting with Naemi, who in turn had beaten Jackson’s Bahrain1Racing teammate Khaled Al Belooshi. In the other quarter-final match-ups, Mohammed defeated Khalil Al Ansari while Bader Korshid overcame Lizzy Musi.

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With Naemi and Korshid beaten in the final four, Jackson made no mistake with his final pass. He clocked a mark of 3.668s at 321.86kph while Mohammed had a time of 3.687s at 351.55kph.

The result earned Jackson his second Pro Mod victory in three rounds in Bahrain, after he had also taken the season-opening win last November.

More than 170 drag racers from across the Gulf and beyond flocked to BIC to compete in the event.

Also in the championship, E Kanoo Racing Team had plenty to celebrate with two of their drivers winning other categories.

Mohammed made up for his Pro Mod defeat with a win in the Super Street V8 category.

He beat Turki Al Humedi with a brilliant pass of 4.027s in the final.

E Kanoo teammate Gary White was another to win. He clinched the Outlaw 6-Cylinder title after he beat Mohammed Ali Haji with a last run of 13.218s.

Mohammed Zain Alabden won the Super Street 6-Cylinder class with a dominant final run against Hamed Al Murbati; while Mohamed Al Jalahma won the Street 4 and 6 category with a final pass of 9.199s against Jamil Ebrahim Hilal; Rounding out the remaining classes, Mohamed Mubarak triumphed in the Outlaw FWD category despite his 12.725s time as rival Ali Mahfoth was charged with a stage foul and Mohammed Sulyman beat Salah Salahuddin in the Street V8 final.

Elsewhere, Jaber Almagribi won the Competition 4.5 class, Mustafa Atat won the Outlaw 10.5 trophy, and Raeed Ali won the Index 10.5 category, Mohammed Jawad triumphed in the Index 9.5 and Majed Al Sharshini won in the Index 8.5 class.

Amongst the motorbike participants, Bader Bin Edan claimed the Street Bike category; Mishari Al Turki was the winner in the Super Street Bike; Meshal Al Saber clinched a win the Pro Bike class, and in the Index Bike 9.50, Waleed Albadeen was the winner.

Following all the action, the winners were awarded their respective trophies by officials from the BIC, the Bahrain Drag Racing the Bahrain Motorcycle Club.

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MOTORSPORT

Ecclestone says he has been “dismissed” from F1 role Bernie Ecclestone has given the clearest indication yet his time in charge of Formula One is at an end.The F1 chief told German publication Auto Motor und Sport he “was dismissed today” by the sport’s incoming new owners Liberty Media. Ecclestone confirmed recent rumours he is to be offered an honorary position within the sport. “My new position is one of those American terms,” he said “I have this title now, even though I don’t know what it means.

The 86-year-old has been involved in the promotion of F1 in one capacity or another since the early seventies. But his position in charge of the sport has been in doubt since Liberty Media began their takeover last September in a deal valued at £6 billion ($8 billion).

Chase Carey has taken over in charge of Formula One Group according to Ecclestone. Carey, the former the president of 21st Century Fox, became F1 chairman when Liberty announced their takeover.

Renault announce BP/Castrol deal for 2017 Renault has confirmed BP and Castrol as its new suppliers of fuel and lubricants for the 2017 season, replacing Renault’s long-term partner Total. “With the new aerodynamic regulations for the 2017 Formula 1 season, power sensitivity will increase,” said team boss Cyril Abiteboul.

“Therefore fuels and lubricants will make an even greater difference to the overall performance of the car than they have since the new power unit regulations have been introduced in 2014.” “The teams at BP and Castrol are very excited by the challenges offered by Formula 1 and we are confident they will help us achieve our ambitions for our new car in 2017 and beyond.”

Renault Sport president Jerome Stroll said: “The return of BP and Castrol, brands with such strong heritage in motorsport, is very good news and opens new opportunities for our Formula One team.”

“BP’s commitment highlights the ongoing appeal of Formula One to major multinational companies. We are very proud and motivated to have a technical partner and sponsor of this calibre.”

Renault last worked with BP and Castrol in 1997, when their engines powered Jacques Villeneuve and Williams to the 1997 drivers’ and constructors’ championships.

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Hamilton to break pole record? The stats to watch for in 2017 The 68th running of the Formula One world championship could see Lewis Hamilton become the all-time king of qualifying.

Other records are also likely to topple in the coming 12 months – here’s which ones to keep an eye out for. Michael Schumacher has held the record for the most pole positions for over a decade.

His 66th pole position, set at the 2006 French Grand Prix, moved him ahead of Ayrton Senna’s record of 65. The Ferrari driver went on to establish a new record of 68.

However Hamilton is poised to overhaul both of them. He’s currently on 61 pole positions and has 20 chances to add more over the course of this year. Eight more pole positions will put him in the lead – and he racked up a dozen last year.

It’s not a foregone conclusion Hamilton will be able to do that. Red Bull could spring a surprise on Mercedes and Hamilton’s new team mate Valtteri Bottas is very good over a flying lap. But there’s a good chance we’ll see a new pole position record this year.

Manor faces the end as it fails to find a buyer

Manor’s hopes of continuing in Formula One have ended as the team has failed to find a buyer.

The team’s staff had been kept on until the end of January in the hope a buyer could be found at the eleventh hour to secure its place in this year’s championship.

Manor was the only team left from the four new entries which were granted

admission to the championship in 2010.

Of those, US F1 never started a race, while HRT lasted three seasons before going under.

Lotus rebranded as Caterham in 2012 but it too collapsed at the end of the 2014 season. Manor entered the championship under the Virgin brand owned by Richard Branson, but was renamed Marussia by the short-lived Russian sports car company. The team

was bought by Stephen Fitzpatrick at the end of 2014 and renamed Manor.

The team scored a point in last year’s Austrian Grand Prix courtesy of Pascal Wehrlein. However they fell to last in the constructors’ championship before the end of the season, costing them millions in prize money.

The news leaves Formula One with just ten teams on the grid for the 2017 F1 season.

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MOTORSPORT

OGIER WINS MONTE-CARLO SÉBASTIEN OGIER WON HIS FOURTH CONSECUTIVE RALLYE MONTE-CARLO ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON IN A FORD FIESTA WORLD RALLY CAR.

He eased through the final leg in the mountains above Monaco to claim his fifth Monte success in total by 2min 15.0sec in a Ford Fiesta World Rally Car. It was a dream debut for the Frenchman with the M-Sport World Rally Team, for whom this was a first win since November 2012.

Jari-Matti Latvala finished second in a Toyota Yaris on the Japanese manufacturer’s return to the WRC after a 17-year absence. Final day engine problems for Ott Tänak denied M-Sport a one-two as he slipped to third, a further 42.8sec behind.

Ogier took the lead late on Saturday’s penultimate leg when event-long leader Thierry Neuville broke his Hyundai i20 Coupe’s suspension after an impact.

With a comfortable gap, Ogier took no risks through the final snow-hit speed test over the famous Col de Turini.

“I was hoping to win but to take it from the first rally, after only one month together and with so little preparation, feels really amazing,” he said. “The conditions didn’t make our life easy this weekend, starting first in the snow on day one and finishing with more and more snow.”

Latvala struggled to find a good rhythm initially but changes to his car’s setup revitalised the Finn. Third overnight became second when Ott Tänak dropped time with a broken ignition coil pack in his Fiesta and Latvala sped by.

With no service, Estonian Tänak worked

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furiously to make repairs and did enough to hold onto third, fending off Dani Sordo’s i20 Coupe with a spirited downhill drive to the finish of the last special stage in falling snow.

Craig Breen finished fifth in a Citroën DS 3 with Elfyn Evans completing the top six in another Fiesta. The Welshman won three stages on Saturday to offset a disappointing start when he dropped several minutes in snow and ice.

WRC 2 winner Andreas Mikkelsen was seventh ahead of team-mate Jan Kopecký, while Stéphane Lefebvre continued his recovery from a broken clutch on the opening day to climb to

ninth in a Citroën C3. Bryan Bouffier completed the leaderboard in a Fiesta R5.

Neuville eventually finished 15th and gained maximum bonus points after winning the final Power Stage. Kris Meeke did not restart after his C3 suffered broken suspension following a collision with a non-competing car on the liaison section to Monaco on Saturday night.

More snow and ice are in store for competitors at the second round next month. Rally Sweden is based in Torsby on 9 - 12 February.

MotoGP 2017 testing: Ducati taking ‘lots of updates’ to Sepang Ducati will bring “a lot of updates” to the first major MotoGP test of 2017 at Sepang next week, as it adapts to Jorge Lorenzo’s feedback and the winglet ban.

“And that’s what Jorge requested, so I’m happy about that - and there will be more effort in that way from Gigi to improve that point.”

Dovizioso added that the winglet ban would play a big role in Ducati’s preseason work to improve its handling.

“We have to adapt the balance of the bike and the set-up of the electronics,” he said when asked about the ban.

“I did a comparison in Valencia and the difference was very, very big.

“In the last two years everybody increased the downforce, and we arrived at a level that’s quite big.

“So if you take anything out, at the beginning you are lost.

The Italian manufacturer led the way on aerodynamic developments over the last two years, meaning it potentially needs to make the most changes in the wake of those devices being outlawed for 2017.

Ducati test riders Casey Stoner and Michele Pirro started running new parts, including an off-centre exhaust layout, at Sepang last week, and Lorenzo’s teammate Andrea Dovizioso says the two race riders have been on the same page

with their requests over the winter.

“Still we are not fast in every track - this is our goal, and one of the biggest points is to improve the bike in the middle of the corners,” he said.

“We will have a lot of updates in Malaysia on our bike in every area, but I’m focused on the middle of the corner, to try to turn the bike a little bit easier, a little bit faster.

“The biggest change is when you still have a lot of [lean] angle and you’re opening the throttle, already the wheelie starts - with the winglets that didn’t happen.

“And it’s difficult to change direction - in the test everyone who was without winglets changed completely the line on [corner] exit. “It’s about adapting the style, the set-up of the bike, but I’m not worried about it.”

Grand Prix of Qatar Losail International Circuit Qatar - 23 Mar - 26 Mar 2017

5.4 kilometres, surrounded by artificial grass designed to prevent sand from the neighbouring desert from blowing onto the circuit. The main straight is over a kilometre in length and there is a good mix of medium and high-speed corners, including a couple of quick left-handers which has proved particularly popular with the riders.

About the circuit The fabulous Losail International Circuit lies on the outskirts of Doha, the capital city of Qatar. Built in little over a year, the track cost $58 million USD and required

round-the-clock dedication from almost 1,000 workers in order to get it ready for the inaugural event - the Marlboro Grand Prix of Qatar on the 2nd October 2004.

The track itself is a flowing layout of

In 2008 Qatar celebrated the first night time Grand Prix in history, following the construction of permanent outdoor lighting. The switch to night time racing was a success and has continued to be so, with the Qatar event now established as one of the most spectacular on the MotoGP calendar.

Losail International Circuit is located approx. 30 km from the Doha Airport and approx. 20 km from the Doha Centre.

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MOTORSPORT

Nissan Drifts to Podium Dominance in Storming Red Bull Season Finale

Nissan has once again demonstrated its legendary motorsport prowess, with the three podium finishers at the Red Bull Car Park Drift Final 2016 all driving Nissan Silvia sports cars.

“This company’s heritage when it comes to motorsport is the envy of the world,” says Samir Cherfan, Managing Director of Nissan Middle East. “And as the motorsport scene continues to evolve, so do we. To be successful at drifting at this level, which is absolutely top tier, a driver needs a car that’s completely controllable.

“That the three podium finishers in the recent Red Bull championship final were all driving Nissans says all anyone needs to know about how in tune we are, and have always been, with the unique demands of competitors, from drifters to endurance racers and everything in between.”

Nissan has been at the cutting edge of world motorsport for eight decades, being involved at every level, from grass roots amateurs to Formula 1. The company’s vehicles have proved ideal for use in many applications due to their intelligent design, rugged engineering and inherent reliability, and Nissan’s own NISMO brand has continued

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• •

Top three Car Park Drift finalists all driving Nissan sports cars Motorsport history continues to be made after eight decades at the top.

to set new standards in performance that has been bred at the world’s most demanding motorsport events and venues.

At the Red Bull Car Park Drift Final 2016, which concluded on 9 December, a trio of Omani competition drivers took the top three places, with Haitham Al Hadidy taking the crown as ‘King of Drift’. Just 18-years old, Al Hadidy’s performance was remarkable, especially as this was his first time competing at a professional level. He scored 390 points to take first place, with previous champion, Ali Al Balushi coming in second and Tarek Al Shaihani achieving third in a formidable array of talent from across the Middle East.

“We would like to congratulate Haitham Al Hadidy,” adds Fadi Ghosn, Chief Marketing Officer at Nissan Middle East, “for taking the crown at Red Bull Car Park Drift Final.

At Nissan Middle East, motorsport is in our DNA and we are proud to be the partners of such an exciting event. This has been a particularly exciting year for Nissan in the high performance space, having launched our NISMO models in the region and being part of the Red Bull Car Park Drift 2016. We would like to congratulate all of the drivers who participated in this year’s event and we look forward to more excitement in 2017.”

Rear-wheel drive Nissan cars have proved to be ideal for drifting competitions and, in December 2014, Nissan Middle East set a new Guinness World Record for the longest twin vehicle drift. To achieve that feat, two Nissan 370Zs were drifted together on track, without stopping, for a distance of 28.52 kilometres.

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MOTORSPORT

Batelco Drag 965 Achieve Major Success in 2016 Sodi World Series

Batelco Drag 965 has finished 3rd overall in the 2016 Sodi World Series (SWS) competing against a huge regional and international line up of over 1800 teams from 52 countries.

Over the course of 2016 Batelco Drag 965 amassed 8381 points during 12 races in different countries with six 1st and five 2nd podium places.

Batelco Bahrain CEO Eng. Muna Al Hashemi said that this is a great achievement for the Kingdom of Bahrain and elevates the reputation of racing in Bahrain on the international stage.

“Batelco is proud of the team’s success in the SWS races, especially considering that the international level of competition is very high. Success on the international stage boosts Batelco’s and Bahrain’s profile which helps to confirm the Kingdom as a reputable business and residential hub within the region,” Eng. Al Hashemi added.

Team Manager and Corporate Affairs Senior Manager Osama Alsaad said that he and all the Batelco Drag 965 team members were delighted with this great success especially as it was achieved competing against some of the heavyweight teams and drivers of the karting world.

“The success was only possible thanks to tremendous support from our supporters and sponsors in addition to the dedication and efforts of all team members, whether behind the wheel or working in the background.”

“Accordingly Batelco Drag 965 extends grateful appreciation to Batelco for its ongoing support and to Kuwait based Drag 965 for its invaluable sponsorship throughout 2016. Ensuring we get to all of our international races is Gulf Air, the team’s official carrier and we offer a big vote of

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thanks to them,” said Mr. Alsaad.

“We additionally want to take this opportunity to thank Bahrain Motor Federation for its ongoing efforts to drive the success of racing in Bahrain and the BIC (Bahrain International Circuit) and BIKC (Bahrain International Karting Circuit) for their support, encouragement and tremendous organisational efforts to host an excellent line-up of events throughout each year,” he added.

Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer Mr Maher Salman Al Musallam said: “We have enjoyed a longstanding and fruitful relationship with Batelco over the years and it is thanks to

that strong relationship between two leading Bahraini organisations, and in line with our national carrier’s commitment to supporting home-grown initiatives that we became official carrier to the Batelco Drag 965 racing team.”

“As Bahrain’s national carrier we are committed to supporting initiatives that raise the profile of the Kingdom globally and increase awareness of our people and country - across the Gulf Air network.

Batelco Drag 965’s achievement in the 2016 Sodi World Series (SWS) is Bahrain’s achievement and we are delighted to provide whatever support possible.”

Hassan and Al Alawi clinch fine wins in karting sprints at BIKC

Hussain Hassan and Nasser Al Alawi were the big winners in the latest edition of the Bahrain Karting Sprint Championship (BKSC), held this past weekend at Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) in Sakhir.

Hassan won round three of the 2016/2017 Bahrain Rotax Mojo Max Challenge (BRMMC) 0000while Al Alawi triumphed in round five of the 2016/2017 Bahrain SWS Sprint Championship (SSWS).

Racing was held along BIKC’s 1.414-kilometre Commission Internationale de Karting (CIK) Track.

In the BRMMC, which is a category exclusively for Rotax kart owners, Hassan was in fine form from the early going. He topped the timesheet in qualifying before winning the Pre-Final to secure pole for the deciding sprint.

Hassan quickly started from where he left off and maintained his lead throughout the 15lap Final. He took the chequered flag after a total winning time of 14 minutes 25.997 seconds.

Hassan finished 2.725 seconds ahead of runner-up Abdulla Al Thawadi, while Mohammed Mattar completed the podium placers in third a narrow 2.815s behind the winner.

All three top finishers were a part of the Max class, which also featured Ali Baslar and Khalied Alsaei who were fourth and fifth, respectively.

Meanwhile, winning their race categories were Luca Santiago and Anthony Genocchio.

Luca claimed first place in the Junior Max class ahead of Sulaiman Alkanderi, Anas Lecaillon and Alexander Bekkers.

Genocchio, on the other hand, won the Max Masters as the category’s lone competitor.

In the SSWS, Al Alawi bested a field of 19 other karters to win their 15-lap Final in 18:02.442.

Al Alawi couldn’t have been engaged in a tighter battle at the chequered flag, as only 0.080 separated Al Alawi from runner-up Ahmed Ebrahim.

Abdulla Buhindi was another karter who came close to stealing away the victory, but he had to settle for third although was only 0.218s off of the victor’s pace.

Rashid Khalifa and Mohammed Ameen completed the top five and both were within a half-second from first. Khalifa finished 0.517s after Al Alawi while Ameen was 0.524s back.

Rounding out the top eight in the final classification were Mohammed Jalal, Khalid Alwazzan and Bader Mubarak.

Following the third round of action in the BRMMC, Hassan leapfrogged Mattar to the number one spot on the Max category with 80 points. Mattar is behind by just a single point, while Alsaei is third on 60.

Luca’s win in the Junior Max class helped him move to second place with 42 points, only 12 behind leader Sulaiman. Anas is third with 32 points.

Almuammari is second on 117 points, while Ebrahim is third on 106 points.

To mark the end of the day’s events, the winners were presented their respective trophies in a podium ceremony attended by high-ranking officials from BIKC, Bahrain International Circuit and the Bahrain Motor Federation.

The next edition of the BKSC is scheduled to take place in February.

For more information on the BKSC, kindly call the BIKC on +973-1745-1745 or visit www.bahrain-karting.com.

Genocchio stayed in first in the Max Masters category with 45 markers. Mohammed Faqihi is in second with 25 points.

The BRMMC Entrants Championship, Batelco Drag 965 Racing are in first place with 276 points.

Following the fifth round of the SSWS, Buhindi stayed atop the championship standings with 146 points. Rashid

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MOTORSPORT

Cullen opens up championship lead after victory in opening race of Round 3 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East clean drives while every other driver was forced into battle over the slightly shortened International Circuit reduced to 4.29 km at the Dubai Autodrome.

Team Bahrain’s Isa. S. Al Khalifa and Sweden’s Christoffer Bergström were the grateful benefactors of the mistakes ahead, with Al Khalifa finishing a career high fifth to win the bronze category and likewise Bergström a championship sixth overall. Unfortunately for Saudi fans KSA driver Mohammed Al Saud was one of seven drivers who failed to finish a bruising encounter.

Ireland’s Ryan Cullen has swept to an emphatic victory in the opening race of the third round of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East Season 8 and opened up a lead at the front of the drivers’ championship.

Behind Cullen, surprise package Oman’s Al Faisal Al Zubair continued his impressive debut in the series with an assured race in second place, the best finish of his young career. Third position and final step of the podium went to Saudi’s experienced driver Bandar Alesayi, who like Al Zubair achieved the highest finish of his season.

For the consistent Alesayi the first race of 2017 provided his best result of Season 8. Having competed in the Dubai 24 Hour race the additional track time and preparation has served him well as he looks to win the silver category of the leading race series in the region.

Speaking after the race Alesayi said: “I am very pleased with the race today and my overall performance. I had a strong start and going into the first corner managed to overtake two cars, I took advantage of the battle between Ryan Cullen and Dylan Pereria, which saw me take 3rd place early on. I tried to close the gap on Al Zubair but he drove very well, I also didn’t want to push too hard and risk losing my position. The result was better than expected considering I was on old tires so I am optimistic about tomorrow and hope to achieve another good result.”

Refreshed and eager to prove he had lost no speed over the winter break Cullen, who started in second on the grid made the win look easy after he emerged unscathed from the opening corner to take the chequered flag by

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1.998 seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Speaking after his third race win of the season Cullen said: “I had a good start and managed to catch Dylan (Pereira) up immediately. We had a bit of a battle going into the first corner which sent us both quite wide. I was able to stay ahead without making a collision and with Dylan being pushed wide the cars chasing managed to take the inside line which meant he dropped back quite a few places. I continued to push and built a strong gap ahead of the rest of the pack. I focused on not making any mistakes and took the win. To have won the race on old tires feels even more satisfying, I am looking forward to setting another quick qualifying time tomorrow and trying to make it two out of two wins for Round 3.”

The race was not for the faint hearted and summed up perfectly the highly unpredictable nature of Season 8.

Constant position changes throughout highlighted the fine line between glory and disappointment in this ultracompetitive one-make series.

Only Cullen, Al Zubair and Alesayi enjoyed

After the race he said: “I had a very disappointing first race today. I managed to qualify with a strong time and the car felt great, but as soon as the race started there was a warning light on the dash, which meant I couldn’t see which gear I was in. I lost a lot of positions and was struggling with the car. I had to take the car off the track so I didn’t affect anyone else, and that was the end of my race today. Tomorrow we hope that the car is in good shape to drive and we will prepare to go again, hopefully I will have better luck in the race.”

Round 3 racing continues this weekend and fans can experience the live action for Race 2 at 3.40pm on Saturday 28th at Dubai Autodrome.

Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East represents the most professional series of its kind in the region and offers a proven pathway to world-class international motorsport. Season 8 features an international grid of 16 drivers representing 12 different nationalities covering every level of competition from professionals, amateurs and rookie drivers. International drivers hail from Ireland, Norway, Germany, Luxenberg, Sweden and Turkey with the best local drivers representing the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Saudi racers return for Round 3 of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East at Dubai Autodrome After two opening rounds Season 8 has already positioned itself as one of the most open and tightest championships the series has ever seen with expectations high for the remaining four rounds.

Walter Lechner, the owner of Lechner Racing, and founder and manager of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East, added: “It’s great to be back and to resume what is proving to be a truly enthralling season. The competition between the drivers in every single category is so intense which is exactly what we all want. It really is Porsche GT3 racing at its very best.

Saudi drivers Bander Alesayi and Mohammed Al Saud were both back in action today for the third round of the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East, and have qualified strongly for the opening of two races over the weekend.

Two weeks ago both drivers cut short their winter breaks to compete in the Dubai 24 Hour race and that additional track time has served them well as Bandar Alesayi managed to qualify sixth and Mohammed Al Saud eleventh.

The Saudi drivers feature part of a strong grid of 16 international drivers who all returned to the Dubai Autodrome with clear minds and strong intentions for the remainder of Season 8 following a 6 week layoff for the series.

So far the season has been highly unpredictable, characterised by an ever-changing script with many twists and turns as no single driver has dominated the grid or their category.

That changeable scene continued in qualifying for the opening race of Round 3 with Pereira, who currently sits in fourth overall, claiming his first pole position in the championship in the dying seconds of the session. Behind Pereira Ryan Cullen is in second place on the grid with championship leader Charlie Frijns in third.

this track and I’m hoping I can have a really strong race. I’ve two other drivers ahead of me in Al Zubair and Triller so I’ll have to be at my best to get ahead of them on the track.”

On their return to the Dubai Autodrome this weekend for the second and final time of the season the drivers face a new test with even more pressure placed on every corner and each manoeuvre.

A slightly shortened configuration of the Motor City circuit, reduced to the International Circuit covering 4.29 km for Round 3 will make the slightest of mistakes very difficult for drivers to recover from. There is no room for error.

Mohammed Al Saud added: “Every time I’m on the track I feel I’m improving. My pace is getting better and my confident is definitely high. This is still my first season so to now be so close to the top ten is really pleasing. Today I’ve only one car in my category ahead of me on the grid and I’ve out qualified a driver in the next category above me so I’m definitely moving in the right direction. Hopefully I can make the podium.”

“As a former racing driver and driving coach I’m particularly pleased to see all the drivers develop their style and improve with each race. That was the founding vision of establishing the series in this region and it’s become a reality with a perfect blend of new emerging talent from the region and seasoned professional from around the world all competing on the one grid.”

Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East represents the most professional series of its kind in the region and offers a proven pathway to world-class international motorsport. Season 8 features an international grid of 16 drivers representing 12 different nationalities covering every level of competition from professionals, amateurs and rookie drivers. International drivers hail from Ireland, Norway, Germany, Luxenberg, Sweden and Turkey with the best local drivers representing the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Returning from the winter break this weekend, fans can experience the live action at the Dubai Autodrome on 27th28th January 2017. Race 1 will take place at 3pm on Friday 27th, with Race 2 at the slightly later time of 3.40pm on Saturday 28th.

The Saudi drivers looked refreshed and eager to prove they had lost none of their speed over the winter break with both managing to secure impressive lap times ahead of the first race in 2017.

Speaking after qualifying Alesayi said: “It felt good to get back to the action today and record some strong lap times in a competitive environment. After so many laps around the Dubai Autodrome circuit very recently I feel very comfortable on

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BIKE

PASSIONate biker

Photography: Moh’d Alkhaja - Arad Fort

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BIKE

I was chatting recently to a good friend of Gaz magazine, Ahmed Ahmedi, a 34 year

old Senior Operator whose main hobby is riding motorbikes.

He is the proud owner of a Harley Davidson

Sofitel mod 2007. He spends a lot of his

time, when he is not working, modifying and making different bikes. His bike has been

customised a lot and the wheels are now 21� rather than the original 16�, both the fenders and the gas tank are stretch. The custom headlight and rear lights are now all LEDs. All the control switches are now

the brand PM. The handle bars are now beach bars and they look amazing. The full kit has seen the engine radically changed

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and the exhaust has been replaced by a 36� fish tail. The bike is spectacular. It is a real work of art and looks stunning.

The number plate is a 100% original from Ahmed and was designed by him.

We chatted about where he got his passion for bikes from and unsurprisingly it started

from a young age. When he was about 9 or

10 he started to become really interested in them but not just riding them being able

to take them to pieces and understanding how they worked. He spent a lot of time making new bikes from leftover pieces.

He now owns 3 Harleys and before he has owned a 1996 Heritage. His favourite bike is a Harley Shovel Head and his favourite

modern bike is the Honda Goldwing GL 1800. The man has impeccable taste in

motorbikes. His all-time classic bike is the Harley Davidson Pan Head.

Ahmed is not a member of any motorbike

organisation or club but he is very interested in bike safety and his message

to the readers is to respect him and other motorcyclists when they are on the road.

He has a family so you should respect that and respect him and all of us at GAZ feel exactly the same.

Thanks Ahmed.

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INSTAGAZ

MENTION @GAZ_MAGAZINE TO BE FEATURED HERE 64

Collected by @aldoyh

MENTION @GAZ_MAGAZINE TO BE FEATURED HERE

Collected by @aldoyh

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INSTAGAZ

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Collected by @aldoyh

SAFETY

How to use your high beams properly In our Highway that every driver should not make use of their high beam headlights when they are within 60 metres of following a vehicle or within 150 metres of an approaching vehicle.

Sounds simple and straight forward.

However, I would bet there isn’t a motorist on our roads today that could judge when they are within 60 metres of the car ahead or 150 metres from an approaching vehicle.

No one could judge that distance in daylight, never mind at night when it is applicable.

In other words, we all need to use common sense when deciding when to dip our high beams.

When I drive at night, I’ll use my high beams at speeds over 70 km/h. Slower speeds only require the low beam and most new vehicles will not “overdrive” their headlights at these lower speeds. The term “overdrive” in this case refers to the ability of the headlights to illuminate enough road ahead to stop in.

When I approach a vehicle from behind, I’ll dip my high beams when I can make use of the lights of the vehicle in front: in other words, when the vehicle in front is illuminating the road that I am looking toward. I practice keeping my vision high and looking as far up the road as possible, this is usually well before I get within the 60 metres required by law. Keeping your vision high and scanning the whole road makes for safer driving. Do not stare at the tail lights in front of you.

If I have my high beams on when I encounter oncoming traffic, I’ll dip my high beams when I can see two distinct oncoming headlights.

This is well over the 150 metres required, but I do not want to blind oncoming traffic.

Here are 10 lighting tips: 1. Most vehicles mount the high beam switch on a stalk on either the left or right side of the steering column. When you hold the steering wheel in the nine and three o’clock position (ideal for safe driving), this allows you to place a finger tip on the high-beam switch.

This helps to remind you that you have your high beams on and makes it easy to turn them off at a moments notice. Naturally, you cannot keep your finger on the switch while cornering due to hand movement, but on straight stretches of road this works well.

look toward the right at the edge of the road until they have passed and do not stare at their lights.

3. If the vehicle behind you does not dip their high beams while following you, use your night vision mirror. If their lights are still too bright, turn the rearview mirror up toward the roof so the glare of their lights does not affect your vision. If it is still uncomfortable, pull over in a safe area and let them pass. Do not retaliate by braking or with hand gestures as this may worsen the situation. The driver behind you may be drunk.

4. On hilly roads you can dip your high beam when going up hill. Since your vehicle is pointed upward, all you are doing is lighting up sky and not roadway. This can help when another vehicle comes over the hill unexpectedly catching you with your high beams still on.

5. Watch for oncoming headlights lighting up trees or telephone wires. This can tell you when oncoming traffic is just over the crest of the next hill or around the next corner. It gives you a heads up to dip your high beams before being surprised by oncoming traffic.

6. Upgrade your headlights with better quality bulbs. Both GE and Sylvania make higher output bulbs that are still legal and safe to use. They will light up more roadway

at night to increase your safety. When using these better quality bulbs, dip your high beams sooner than when you used the regular style bulbs.

7. Make sure your headlights are properly aligned. Too many vehicles are driving our roads with lights out of alignment. This is dangerous to both you and oncoming traffic.

8. If your vehicle was not equipped from the factory with HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights, do not try to convert your vehicle to this system. They require special lenses and reflectors as designed by the factory engineers.

9. Do not use coloured bulbs in your headlights. These are not permitted under the HTA (see Section 168). It may look cool but it can get you a ticket.

10. Do not use your fog lights on clear nights unless you turn them off for oncoming traffic as you do with your high beams. Too many motorists have no idea when to use fog lights and they will leave them on all the time. This is dangerous and annoying to other drivers.

Fog lights have a specific use. They are too be used when the fog is too thick to allow low beams to penetrate the mist. They are not to be used to appear cool or racy.

2. If the oncoming vehicle does not dip their high beams, give them a quick on-off flash to remind them their high beams are still on.

If they continue toward you with the high beams on, do not put yours on high beams to “punish” them. This may blind them and cause them to drift into your lane. Simply

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GAZTECH

BMW i pilots augmented reality product visualiser powered by Tango, Google’s smartphone AR technology

BMW i is the first automotive brand in the world to offer customers an interactive, 3-D augmented reality experience of their products in a pilot programme which is being rolled-out from today. Using Tango, Google’s smartphone augmented reality technology, customers can explore their ideal BMW i3 or i8, as a real-size, interactive visualization.

“Our vehicles are emotional products and to get that emotional feeling, you really need to experience them,” commented Andrea Castronovo, BMW Group Vice President, Sales Strategy and Future Retail. “In situations where the desired product isn’t available on the spot, this visualisation is the next best thing,” he continued.

Piloting initially in a double-digit number of sales outlets, selected Product Geniuses will be provided with a consumer mobile device which is Tango-enabled. Using this, they can then support customers to visualize and experience the BMW i products, using augmented reality to create a 3-D image which can be explored interactively: the customer can open the boot or the doors, even getting “inside” the car to take a closer look at the interior. Eric Johnsen, Head of Business Development for Augmented Reality at Google, said, “The thing that sets Tango apart is the fact that it understands the context of the space that it’s in. So the wheels are really on the floor, for example, giving the whole experience a much more realistic feel.”

The quality of the images created is certainly extremely realistic. “In our initial tests, we saw people ducking down when they were getting into the car, as if there really were a roof there for them to bang their heads on,” Andrea Castronovo recalled. “It’s that level of detail which means this technology

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offers the customers real added value,” he commented.

BMW i is the first automotive brand to use Tango to provide customers with this interactive experience. “BMW i is the spearhead of innovation at the BMW Group, so it’s clearly a good fit for the pilot of this new customer and retail tool,” explained Stefan Biermann, BMW Group Head of Innovations Sales, BMW i. The BMW i Visualiser App is the latest innovation in the BMW Group’s Future Retail programme, which began rolling out around three years ago and which has transformed the customers’ experience of buying a car. Many significant elements of Future Retail, such as the Product Genius or the Virtual Product Presenter, have set new

benchmarks for the industry.

The BMW i Visualiser was designed and developed by Accenture, integrating BMW i picture data of the vehicles into an app which uses Tango technology. It offers customers a new and interactive way to experience the car, with functions that enable customers to open the door or switch on the lights.

In order to keep the user-experience as intuitive and simple as possible, the app is a visualiser instead of a full configurator, where features such as interior and exterior colours or wheel rims can be altered at a touch of the screen. Once the visualisation is complete, the customer can save the data and share it with others, including BMW i sales outlets, via social media, email or QR code.

Once the pilot is successfully completed, it is planned to offer the app on Google Play so that customers with Tango-enabled devices can download it for use any time, any place.

“We believe that over the next couple of years, the majority of premium Android devices will be Tango-enabled,” said Eric Johnsen. “Augmented reality has such huge potential for retail, we’re just getting started,” he continued.

“Our research shows that consumers are seeking improved use of technologies like augmented reality during the carbuying process to make the online-offline experience more compelling,” said Christina Raab, managing director in Accenture’s Automotive practice. “BMW i’s use of Tango technology and its integration with sales outlets and existing configuration tools is helping create the seamless multichannel experience customers are seeking.”

gazman Car Colour I don’t want to start this column off with some blatant sexism as I often chat with female car enthusiasts but on the whole what separates men from women when we talk about cars, and you can test this theory, is men talk about brands whereas women talk more about the colour. If you ask not just a woman but anyone not that into cars about any car they will say the red one a man will say the Audi. I’ve been looking at buying a new car this month and as a married man with kids there are four opinions on everything. The one that gets the most debate is colour. I’ve been doing some research into this and the colour of your car says a lot about you.

White Let’s start with Bahrain’s favourite colour white. I was told the first time I bought a car here that it wouldn’t sell if it was any colour other than white. I don’t know if this was a blag from the person selling me the car but I often quote that line to people. White conjures up honesty, elegance and purity. It also doesn’t absorb the heat as much and indicates a youth and newness. Not convinced…

Black

with colour and grey is seen as making something appear more spacious.

a red car is a confident person that likes fun.

Silver….

Blue

A slightly shinier version of grey but it’s a huge difference in personality.

Not boring at all this is the colour of a stylish person that is also concerned with security. Personally I think certain brands look better in silver for example a Mercedes or and Audi I can’t imagine driving them in any other colour than silver. Not surprisingly silver is a colour that indicates high standards and high class.

Blue is one of the most popular colours of car in the world. Blue is a happy and practical colour and it suggests a happy outlook on life. We like looking at a blue sky and therefore we like to see blue. Blue is a good colour for a happy family. It projects serenity, stability and truthfulness so you should never be cut up by anyone driving a blue car…..

Red I have a good friend that collects classic cars and he has a number of Ferraris but none of them are in red. I asked him, why?

He told me that it is arrogant to drive a red Ferrari. You must be a show off if you drive a red Ferrari……. He is true in his accusations red is all about power and lust. People that drive red cars are go getters. It is the equivalent of showing off your six pack and your muscles. A man with a red car is an exhibitionist he wants you to look at him. A woman that drives

Brown Brown is the colour of someone that doesn’t like change so whoever buys a brown car will be driving it until it dies of natural causes on the slow lane of a highway. This person does not care about image or looks. They care about saving money and getting value for money rather than anything else.

I hope that was a useful insight into the psychiatry of car colours. Personally it has just made a tough choice even tougher. What do you think? Do you agree? Get in touch……..

If white is Bahrain’s favourite does that make black the least popular? Black is the most popular car in the luxury market. Not surprisingly black is thought to show sophistication and class. We have black limos and black is all about power and control.

Grey Now a little secret here I’m slightly colour blind and I can’t tell the difference between grey and silver but according to the experts there is a difference.

Grey cars suggest a person that likes to blend into their surroundings and is a bit boring. Grey car drivers are more mature, dignified and traditional. Designers say that the size of your car is also important

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