Gulf Insider - September - October

The multi-award winning Arabian Magazine

GETTING TO KNOW THE NEW PRESIDENT OF THE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF BAHRAIN

Gulf Insider speaks with newly appointed President of the American University of Bahrain, Dr. Bradley J. Cook.

Succeeding Dr. Susan E. Saxton, the Founding President of the American University of Bahrain (AUBH), Dr. Bradley J. Cook joined the University in the summer of 2022. He has over thirty years of distinguished experience in higher education across the US and the Middle East. We reached out to learn more about his plans as he takes up his new role, his definition of leadership as related to education, his greatest achievements, and more.

What are your primary focus areas as you take up this new role?

I am thrilled to join AUBH and the wide array of potential I can see within the University. During my years of experience in higher education, I have worked with numerous practical institutions to better understand and analyse the needs of the marketplace. Being connected to the industry is crucial to supporting AUBH in developing a caliber of graduates with world-class education who possess the essential skillsets required to thrive in the practical environment. This will in turn drive the growth of the Kingdom’s economy.

As I take up the new role, I am currently focused on the following: firstly, leading AUBH in seeking US institutional accreditation. We are engaged and have achieved eligibility in seeking accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC), a first for higher education in Bahrain.

Secondly, optimising our recently forged academic partnership with California State University, Northridge (CSUN), based in Los Angeles. What we established through this academic partnership is the opportunity for AUBH students to begin their university journey here in Bahrain with access to a pathway to continue their education at CSUN, which has a diverse and large portfolio of programs and a studentcentric environment.

Our portfolio of partnerships with several entities and organisations in both the private and public sectors is rich and diverse. We are looking forward to strengthening those and at the same time expanding our national and international reach. These partnerships and relationships will help us improve our caliber of graduates as well as develop our academic programs in line with the ever-changing needs of the workforce.

Lastly, working on a future programmatic approach to raise the profile of AUBH. This is one of my focus areas to add value to the students’ experience here on campus, and highlight the academic quality of our education and the social well-being of the AUBH Community.

In 2020, you were identified as one of the “most visionary education leaders” by Education Magazine. What is your vision for AUBH for the next few years?

As the first American-style University in the Kingdom, we envision the campus to be a place of learning both in mind and body with students participating in both individual and team sports.

I envision AUBH to be a global destination that feels like home for all learners. One of the hallmarks of American-style education is peer learning, which is one of our differentiators here at AUBH. With a dynamic campus alive with dazzling events all around the year, AUBH is more than just a university, it is a community bonded with the “culture of care.”

In addition, inclusive learning for all profile learners is on the top of my list, stressing on the importance

of developing learning communities and valuing members’ diversity, while strengthening the bond between all members of the AUBH Community.

What is your definition of leadership as related to education?

The essential bedrock of successful leadership is creating a shared purpose and getting everyone on the team to embody that vision and articulation. This applies to all sectors, and much more specifically when we speak about higher education. Leaders who can elevate their academic communities are in high demand, but it really takes the right combination of passion, experience, and education for leaders to succeed.

be open to different modalities and methods of learning to cater to different profiles of learners, which includes the graduates, who do not necessarily have the time to dedicate as much as undergraduates. Embracing online experience and creating options for lifelong learners is one of the things I am most passionate about.

What has been your greatest achievement thus far in your many years as a higher education leader?

Record-breaking growing enrollments and graduations. Celebrating students’ success and being on the ground engaging with the student and staff culture helped achieve those great records. Working on a distinct and strong internalisation agenda and diversification of the student community as well has been one of my greatest achievements.

Finally, what is your personal motto for success?

Lead with integrity, collaboration, and a laser-focused vision. Be brave, imaginative, creative, and innovative.

Delving deeper, I think the two arms crucial to success in any environment are safety and a sense of belonging.

For long-term success, a leader should be able to lead, facilitate, coach, and show up for his team members. Working hand in hand to achieve a common goal and perspective, and understanding the importance of building a collaborative and inclusive community is at the forefront of good leadership in education.

If you could, what is one change you would make to higher education today?

Creating a positive change in higher education today in my own words means creating more meaningful connections with students in a way that works best for them. Understanding the students’ perspectives and trying to reach a common ground is salient, especially in these times.

I would like educators to explore and

A safe environment is a prerequisite for studying successfully. We are continually endeavoring to create a climate that is conducive to interactive healthy learning. At the same time, we work with all efforts to help the AUBH Community, whilst keeping the students at the center of our enterprise, to help them always feel connected. This sense of belonging motivates students and gives them more academic self-confidence, higher levels of academic engagement, and overall higher achievement in several aspects of life.

To apply atAUBH or for more information, call +973 7799 7008 or visit https://aubh.edu.bh/

Our portfolio of partnerships with several entities and organisations in both the private and public sectors is rich and diverse.

The American University of Bahrain (AUBH) mirrors the best universities in the United States.

DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU CAN START UNIVERSITY IN BAHRAIN AND GRADUATE IN THE US?

CSUN is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is widely recognised for preparing students for leadership roles.

Home to some of the world’s finest universities, it comes as no surprise that the United States (US) hosts the largest number of international students globally. This is fueled by driving factors such as receiving quality education, international recognition, a flexible education system, and employment prospects.

The American University of Bahrain has partnered with California State University, Northridge (CSUN) to offer students a strong academic curriculum in preparation for a successful career both regionally and internationally.

The partnership has opened doors for students to pursue further studies abroad or finish their studies in California. They can attend summer programmes in the US and earn a CSUN degree by completing one, two, or three years of coursework.

CSUN is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is widely recognised for preparing students for leadership roles. It is one of the largest universities in the US and educates more international students than most master’s universities.

The flexible and interactive approach to learning at AUBH exposes students to real-world scenarios and practical, case-based lessons. The campus is constantly bustling with academic extra-curricular activities keeping them engaged while preparing them for their professional journey ahead.

To apply or for more information, call +973 7799 7008 or visit https://aubh. edu.bh/

BACK TO SCHOOL

American School of Bahrain kicks off new school year 2022-2023.

The start of a school year is always an exciting time. The American School of Bahrain (ASB) has come a long way since it first opened in 2020 with 112 students and 40 staff and faculty members. This new school year, they welcomed 515 new and returning students, two new senior leaders, and 100 faculty members.

Before classes officially began, the new staff and faculty attended the new teachers’ orientation from 21-25 August. Among the new members are Middle & High School Principal, Dr. Juan Saavedra and new coordinator of the school’s Early Childhood Center, Ms. Casey Bucheler.

On 31 August, the new students also attended an orientation where they were taken on a tour to see their classrooms, meet their teachers, and participate in some activities. New ASB parents had the opportunity to meet with other parents and members of the senior team in the library over coffee and snacks.

ASB is holding another event in September where parents can seek further information about the curriculum and programmes offered.

The first official day of school for students was on 4 September from Grades 1-11 and 5 September for students from Pre-KG to KG2.

“As the ASB community continues to grow, we work hard to stay true to our commitment towards delivering a comprehensive learning experience in a positive school environment.”

Dave McMaster, Director, American School of Bahrain

A typical day for an ASB student is abuzz with arts, sports, and music, and you will rarely walk into a classroom to find them sitting in rows. They offer a holistic learning environment with a diverse range of activities and opportunities to enable students to be well balanced individuals. Their technology-embedded learning approach brings together STEM learning, projectbased learning with cross-curricular links and design thinking.

For more information and to learn more about their educational program, call +973 1721 1800 or visit www.asb.bh

“As the ASB community continues to grow, we work hard to stay true to our commitment towards delivering a comprehensive learning experience in a positive school environment.”

HOW IMPORTANT ARE EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD?

Whether it be in arts, sports, or academics, developing extracurricular skills is an integral part of an ASB student’s typical day at school. We recently spoke with Athletic & Activities Director, Michael Balo, on the important role extracurricular activities (ECAs) play in a child’s education, how it enables them to become well-balanced individuals, and the diverse range of activities offered at the school.

You mentioned that you firmly believe that ECAs are the second half of education. Why and how so?

A comprehensive ECA programme is the second half of education because it focuses on developing skills and giving students additional learning opportunities that might not be offered in a regular curriculum. Hence, it is an extension of the classroom. By being an active participant in an activities programme, students will learn important life skills that they

will use in their adult lives. These skills include, but are not limited to, communication, perseverance, risk taking, sportsmanship, how to win and lose, overcoming challenges, time management, stress relief, and many others.

At ASB, all ECA’s are tied directly to our school pillars. By participating in ECA’s, students are happy, exposed to international mindedness, lead balanced lifestyles, are part of our ASB community, and develop leadership skills. This is what we do in the

Gulf Insider speaks with Michael Balo, the Athletic & Activities Director at the American School of Bahrain (ASB).

The key components of any ECA programme are a variety of offerings which are in line with the schools’ mission and vision.

classroom each day, so we extend that to our activities programme.

What are the key components of a successful ECA programme and how are these implemented into ASB’s curriculum?

The key components of any ECA programme are a variety of offerings which are in line with the schools’ mission and vision. We strive to offer a balance of activities which meet the needs of all students. Each student is unique, has different interests and learns in their own way, and our programme aims to meet those needs.

What ECA offerings are available at ASB currently? Are these open to all students?

We offer activities to all ASB students from Kindergarten to Grade 11. Participation is optional; however, it is strongly encouraged by the school. All of our activities fall in four categories: Leadership, Creativity, Academics, and Wellbeing. Most of our activities are

free of charge for ASB students, but we do have outside providers come into the school and offer activities at a cost. This is only done when we are not able to offer them internally.

Finally, you have been an international educator for over 28 years. What is your personal motto for success?

My passion is offering a comprehensive activities programme to every student at ASB. It is very important to me to give students choices, challenge, and push them to excel in whatever they choose to do. My aim is to offer a wide variety of activities which meet the needs of every student. Each student is different, learns differently and has different interests. A strong ECA programme meets those needs and that is my aim!

For more information about ASB, call 1721 1800 or visit www.asb.bh

WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE FINANCIAL MARKET DURING THE SECOND HALF OF 2022

summarized as the ‘end of the era of supply abundance in the Western world’ (cheap labour, capitals, raw materials, energy, cheaply manufactured goods, etc.).

For three decades, we were living in a state where supply was never a problem. The central banks stepped in to support the market during every single shock that the Western world has experienced. In the wake of the Ukraine war, the reaction function involved the central banks beginning to change. In the midst of a shock such as this, for the first time, we saw the federal reserve tightening interest rates, monetary policy, etc. This is how fast and how radically the situation has evolved.

The first phase of that adjustment was having higher interest rates, higher cost of capital, and readjustment of all assets. That’s why safe-haven bonds, credit, and equities have readjusted to almost the same extent. Going forward, there’s a lot of uncertainty. Therefore, it’s very difficult to make a forecast.

Gulf Insider catches up with Yves Bonzon, Group Chief Investment Officer and member of the Executive Board at Swiss Wealth Manager, Julius Baer to discuss their secular outlook, what’s to come in the financial markets, and advice for investors for the second half of 2022.

The 2022 market decline has been extremely broad-ranged, from safe-haven bonds to equities. What do you predict is next?

The market decline during the first half of 2022 was a broad-based reset for the new paradigm that resulted from the geopolitical situation in the wake of the war in Ukraine. This can be

The cost of energy has exploded in Europe. In terms of inflation, the US is facing demand problems resulting from excessive stimulus to support the economic and post-pandemic economic recovery. There are different sets of circumstances, which might imply a slightly different path forward for management policy.

At the corporate level, the key question to us is: how will the profit pool of the corporate sector migrate? Those who were the main beneficiaries of the old paradigm, will probably no longer be the main beneficiary going forward. Priorities have changed in the US and Europe. Therefore, we expect new leadership to emerge.

In your April 2022 Secular Outlook, you mention that you have put an end to your five-year call on Chinese equities rising to core asset class status. Why is this?

In 1992, I was convinced that China would tremendously develop over the next couple of decades. But Chinese equities were not very attractive to investors for a variety of reasons. At the time, the kinds of companies listed on the stock market were of very mediocre quality. So, for 25 years, I hardly considered an asset allocation for Chinese equities. In 2017, we came to the conclusion that China had reached the development level at which it could no longer afford to allocate capital in a suboptimal way. Therefore, going forward, efficient allocation of capital required adapting best practice, such as that which you observe in corporate management in the US.

This whole scenario has been unfortunately wrecked by the domestic policy shift towards common prosperity. Clearly, the Chinese government has set very clear priorities for society and development. This has challenged the case for efficient allocation of capital. Furthermore, we’ve learned the lesson from what happened in Ukraine earlier this year. The value of Russian assets, both bonds and equities have been tremendously impacted, but the main driver of the asset value decline above and beyond the conflict, have been the sanctions imposed by Western governments and regulators. There is additional risk and it’s something that is very difficult to price. Whether you want to accept that risk and harvest the benefit of China’s diversification, is something very personal to each and every investor.

So, there are diversification merits to Chinese capital markets. But, we have these new sets of circumstances with common prosperity, which challenge the case.

What is motivating investors to buy stocks amidst a highly volatile economy today?

It’s plain and simple. Stocks are real assets. So are revenues, company turnover, and benefit from higher

inflation over time. In this new environment, we expect stocks to outperform bonds by a greater margin. One reason is the cash flow of bond investments won’t be indexed in most circumstances to inflation, whereas the corporate sector will have the tailwind of more inflationary condition. However, that also has implications in terms of who benefits in the corporate sector of Europe and America.

What is your advice to investors for the second half of 2022 to secure returns and reduce risk?

We recommend investors to stay invested and manage the overall portfolio risk separately. In our case, we’ve made the choice to implement through a position in short S & P 500

What is your preferred asset class for long-term investment today and why?

If I had to own one asset class at this point, I would probably go for Canadian equities. This is because Canada’s stock market structure has a lot of exposure to everything the Western world needs for reshoring purposes. I think Canada is one of the unintended beneficiaries of the new geopolitical situation. Therefore, it’s certainly one asset class that we would rank higher on our hit list.

Where do you see cryptocurrencies going?

We believe Bitcoin is gold in digital form. It shares many of the characteristics of the yellow metal. It’s complicated and risky to store. It can be stolen. And we think in the exact same way gold benefits from inflation in the long term, Bitcoin will fulfill the same role. It will be the gold of the new generation of investors.

Ethereum and other coins that enable smart contracts are a different story. We think there is still tremendous potential for those technologies to develop into real world applications that are profitable. We’ve hardly seen those applications starting to emerge yet, and we should not be fooled by the digital asset space responding to the reset of liquidity conditions and interest rates.

futures, reducing thereby our equity exposure.

We like the portfolio construction where you stay invested and have a hedge. As we saw on 26 August 2022, markets have developed a tendency to rise in a relentless manner until they break abruptly. This occurred a number of times in the last few years. In our experience, it’s easier to unwind the hedge after a market decline and harvest the profit of the hedge rather than redeploy fresh money in the midst of a market decline. We think the second half 2022 is time to position the portfolio for the next cycle. The most important question is not so much about timing the market short term, but about how, where, and in what you want to be invested for the next 3-5 years.

When equities eventually bottom later this year, you will also observe a bottoming process in the digital asset space. The ones to own are really those that will enable the digitization of trust, the switch in the financial sector from T+2 settlements to T+0 instant settlement, and eliminating counterparty risk. All of those revolutions are still in the pipeline and eventually will happen. And those protocols that support these revolutions will be very valuable in the future.

For more information on Julius Baer, visit https://www.juliusbaer.com/ international/en/.

When equities eventually bottom later this year, you will also observe a bottoming process in the digital asset space.

IS INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE WORTH IT IN BAHRAIN?

One investment at Kazerooni Heights can go a long way.

In today’s uncertain economic times, investors are looking for something they can rely on to add value to their portfolios. Real estate is known to be one of the most reliable long-term investments and apartments are a good option to consider.

Kazerooni Heights offers two investment options for those looking to diversify their portfolio by investing in real estate:

• Investment plan with guaranteed 6% net return for 3 years

• 5-year (interest free) payment plan with 10% down payment

Bahrain ranked first for economic freedom and fourth for financial, investment, and trade freedom in the MENA region, according to the 2022 Index of Economic Freedom published by the Heritage Foundation.

According to the report, overall investment framework in Bahrain remains transparent and investors (foreign or domestic) are treated equally. According to the Economic

Development Board (EDB) Bahrain, the Kingdom’s real estate transactions jumped 46% in 2021. As demands surge, residential, retail, and tourism properties would present plenty of investment opportunities.

Why Kazerooni apartments?

They are built for comfort and style. Kazerooni Heights apartments are not just spacious, but also come with highquality, state-of-the-art finishing – giving residents and investors a great value for price per square meter.

Kazerooni Heights apartments are not just spacious, but also come with high-quality, stateof-the-art finishing.

Their amenities include a rooftop temperature-controlled pool, BBQ facility with dining room at the pool deck, state-of-the-art gym, steam and sauna facilities, and more. Located in Amwaj Islands, the property is in close proximity to The Lagoon, which offers indoor and outdoor cafes and restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment.

Here are the available units at Kazerooni Heights:

• 1 Bedroom (starting at 87sqm)

• 2 Bedroom (starting at 128sqm)

• 2 Bedroom + Maid’s Room (starting at 164sqm)

• 3 Bedroom + Maid’s Room (starting at 251sqm)

• 3 Bedroom Duplex + Maid’s Room (starting at 247sqm)

In addition to the investment opportunities, there are also a limited number of apartments available for rent that come with a complimentary membership at Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain starting from BD 425 (1-Bedroom).

For detailed prices or more information on Kazerooni ownership and investment options, call +973 39900956 / 39405038 or visit www.kazerooniheights.com

THE FIRST SUPERCAR SUV JUST GOT EVEN BETTER!

Gulf Insider drives the latest Porsche Cayenne GTS.

By Charlie Cooksey

The Porsche Cayenne is a luxurious mid-size SUV with amazing power, handling, and offers great performance.

It’s hard to believe there was so much criticism when Porsche announced back in 2002 that the company was going to make its first SUV, and the first ever Porsche with four doors!

Yet, history proved the Cayenne to be a genius move by Porsche. It became a

massive success and began the trend for high-performance SUVs by other sports and luxury car brands.

The GTS badge signifies the very top-of-the-range version of any Porsche model, and the Cayenne GTS does not disappoint. It has a twin-turbo V8 that provides 480 hp to rocket you from zero to 100 kph in just over four seconds – for comparison, the base Cayenne models use a 335-hp turbocharged V-6.

The GTS also comes with lowered air

suspension, a torque-vectoring rear axle, a revamped sport exhaust system, and black 21-inch wheels. All those extras would cost way more individually.

Despite its power, this is an easy and very comfortable car to drive. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels, and with as much as 9.6 inches of ground clearance from the available air suspension, the Cayenne can climb a mountain and drive in rivers up to 20 inches (50.8 cm)

The Cayenne can comfortably seat five passengers, though Coupe versions are only capable of seating four passengers.

– useful when Bahrain’s roads flood in winter.

Inside, the Cayenne has a high-end feel with typical Porsche attention to detail. Despite having lots of space, it still manages to somehow feel like a true sports car. I really loved the look and feel of the luxurious red leather interior of the model I drove. I also particularly liked its huge panoramic roof.

There’s a big 12.3-inch touchscreen and an update to the Cayenne’s infotainment system this year brings wired Android Auto to join wireless Apple CarPlay.

The GTS has special eight-way sports seats fitted as standard, and there’s Alcantara on the roof lining, seat centre panels, centre console armrests and doors, as well as dark-brushed aluminium and black GTS logos.

The Cayenne comes in either the traditional SUV shape, or as a Coupe with a steeply sloping roof line, wider

shoulders, panoramic fixed glass roof and adaptive rear spoiler. The Coupe is a great option for those happy to sacrifice rear passenger space for artistic design.

The Cayenne can comfortably seat five passengers, though Coupe versions are only capable of seating four passengers.

This is a tremendously versatile SUV, with power, a comfortable ride, and sharp steering – and the GTS offers the best balance between performance and value.

Porsche Cayenne prices start from BD 37,787 including VAT

Cayenne GTS prices start from BD 53,018 including VAT

To arrange a test drive in Bahrain, call +973 17459911 or visit www.porsche.com/middle-east/_ bahrain_/

SHEER ELECTRIC PLEASURE –

BMW EV’S IN THE SUNSHINE STATE

Gulf Insider drives BMW’s exciting new iX and i4 in Florida, USA.

By Charlie Cooksey

During August, I was in Florida – America’s Sunshine State, for a few wonderful weeks. While there, I had the opportunity to enjoy driving various cars stateside.

First, I hired a couple of American ‘muscle cars’, a Ford Mustang followed by a Chevrolet Camaro. Both were convertibles and I loved them. Driving these iconic American cars for a couple of weeks felt somehow satisfying. But things started to get interesting when

BMW North America kindly provided me with BMW’s new electric iX for a week.

The iX is an SUV powered by two electric motors providing all-wheel drive. Two versions are available, the xDrive50 (516 hp – zero to 100 kph in 4 seconds), and the M60 (610 hp – zero to 100 kph in just 3.3 seconds). This is Ferrari worthy power!

The iX has a spacious, luxurious, and futuristically designed interior. On the centre console, there is a large digital dashboard display controlled by a cool

‘crystal’ rotary knob.

Its large panoramic sunroof features electrochromic shading – a new feature found on only a few vehicles.

There’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an 18-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system.

The battery offers a driving range of up to 500 kilometres per charge, and the iX can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 35 minutes when hooked up to a 200-kW connection. Granted, the USA is far more well

equipped with the infrastructure for EV’s compared to the GCC.

Driving on the long, wide straight American roads was a dream –especially on the Interstate-95 going North and South as I did a bit of commuting between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach. Using all the wonderful BMW technology of distance control and assisted driving, other than having to keep my hand on the wheel, she virtually drives herself. This made long distance driving wonderfully comfortable whilst I enjoyed whatever podcast I was listening to.

The iX is an amazing vehicle that ticks all the boxes – power, comfort, design, space, build quality, technology… and not least enjoyment.

BMW i4

From the French Riviera to Florida’s Atlantic Coast, I also had the chance to drive the BMW i4 for a couple of

days. The last time I drove the i4 was during a regional drive event in Nice, France. BMW’s i4 is essentially an electric version of the BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe. It’s a fantastic drive and probably one of the most desirable cars on sale today.

It offers all the same technologies and luxuries as the iX, and is available as an eDrive40 (rear-wheel drive, one electric motor), and M50 (four-wheel drive, two motors – producing 536hp!).

To arrange a test drive in Bahrain, call EuroMotors on 1775 0750 or visit www.euromotors.com.bh

A special thanks to BMW North America for providing us with the BMW iX and i4 to review.

The iX is an SUV powered by two electric motors providing all-wheel drive.

FERRARI UNVEILS ITS FIRSTEVER SUV

Ferrari unveiled the Purosangue, the first ever four-door, four-seater car in the Prancing Horse’s 75-year history.

Since the marque’s earliest years, 2+2 cars (i.e. with two front and two smaller back seats) have played a significant role in its strategy. Now, in the culmination of 75 years of leading-edge research, Ferrari has created a car that is unique on the world stage: not only do performance, driving pleasure, and comfort coexist in perfect harmony, but it is also a peerless encapsulation of the Prancing Horse’s iconic DNA. This is the reason why the name Purosangue, Italian for ‘thoroughbred’, was chosen.

A completely different layout and innovative proportions compared to

modern GT archetypes (so-called crossovers and SUVs) were adopted.

The Purosangue has a mid-frontmounted engine with the gearbox at the rear to create a sporty transaxle layout. The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) is coupled in front of the engine to provide a unique 4×4 transmission. This delivers exactly the 49:51% weight distribution that Maranello’s engineers deem optimal for a mid-front-engined sports car.

The Purosangue is the only car with proportions to sport a mid-frontmounted, naturally-aspirated V12: Maranello’s most iconic engine debuts in this brand-new configuration to

ensure the car unleashes more power than any other in the segment (725 cv) whilst guaranteeing the most enthralling Ferrari engine soundtrack. Furthermore, it can deliver 80% torque even at low revs for unique driving pleasure at all times.

New aero development solutions include synergy between the front bumper and wheelarch trim which generates an air curtain that aerodynamically seals the front wheels, preventing turbulent transverse air flows being generated.

Ferrari has also given the Purosangue the very latest iterations of the vehicle dynamic control systems introduced on

The Purosangue has a mid-frontmounted engine with the gearbox at the rear to create a sporty transaxle layout.

its most powerful and exclusive sports cars, including independent four-wheel steering and ABS ‘evo’ with the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor (6w-CDS). Making its world debut is the F.A.S.T. (Ferrari Active Suspension Technology) system. This very effectively controls body roll in corners as well as the tyre contact patch over high-frequency bumps to deliver the same performance and handling response as in one of the marque’s sports cars.

The all-new chassis has a carbon-fibre roof as standard to keep weight down and lower the centre of gravity. Rearhinged back doors (welcome doors) were also incorporated to make ingress and egress easier while keeping the car as compact as possible. The cabin has four generous heated electric seats that will comfortably accommodate four adults. The boot is the largest ever seen on a Ferrari and the rear seats fold to increase the luggage space. Naturally enough, the Purosangue has a more commanding driving position

than other Ferraris, but the configuration is the same as on every other Ferrari. As a result, the driving position is still intimate and close to the floor to provide greater connection to the car’s dynamic capabilities.

The Purosangue offers class-leading performance figures (from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 s and from 0 to 200 in 10.6 s); the driving position and the heady, naturally-aspirated V12 soundtrack deliver an entirely new yet also entirely Ferrari driving experience. The fact that a vast array of comfort-focused content is provided as standard, such as the Burmester© audio system, and that the many optional extras including the brand-new Alcantara® upholstery, derived from certified recycled polyester, make the PUROSANGUE the most complete four-door, four-seater in the segment.

For more information, visit www.ferrari.com/en-EN

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