JEDDAH, 3 April — One might be fooled into thinking that COMDEX Saudi Arabia, which is ongoing through tomorrow at the Jeddah Exhibition Center, is just about computers, software, services and solutions. The truth is that the most popular items at the show are the latest gizmos and gadgets. Keeping up with the neighbors in the e-age definitely requires more technology, ingenuity and cash.
Take for instance the extreme seat, or “eSeat,” on display at the Panasonic stand at COMDEX. According to Atsushi Hinoki, GM, Advertising and PR, Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE, this is the first time the eSeat has been seen outside Japan. It was decided that because of the Saudi lifestyle the Kingdom was the perfect place to market what amounts to a total fusion of relaxation, entertainment, security and communication.
“The eSeat is only sold as a completely customized product,” said Hinoki. “It’s not something that will ever be mass-produced. We expect it will retail for an average price of SR250,000.”
Takeshi Mizuno, an engineer with the eSeat designers, Matsushita Electrical Industrial Co., pointed out the most important features of this lifestyle furniture.
The eSeat can be manufactured to accommodate one or two individuals and reclines fully flat. Its leather upholstered massage recliner is combined with a wooden frame made of mahogany or walnut. The entire frame has an impermeable seal for protection against nasty spills. A 50” plasma display is placed at the front of the eSeat and then other equipment such as a LCD TV, DVD player, digital video, surround sound system, karaoke, TV phone, Internet connection and integrated remote control, are built into the frame. When not in use, the equipment automatically glides down into the frame to avoid unnecessary clutter.
The eSeat can also be equipped with a home surveillance system, intercom system and call button; the last item is for those users in need of special assistance from a nurse or other attendant.
Arab News took a quick survey of visitors at the Panasonic stand to discover what they thought after trying the eSeat. Most were incredibly amused with the concept but found its price was incredible too. Nevertheless, most would willingly have taken an eSeat home if they could.
A few people mentioned that it would be excellent for physically challenged individuals. There was one feature though that most people thought was missing in the eSeat — a mini refrigerator. That’s why perhaps Audi’s e-automobile would suit some consumers better.
Saudi Arabian Marketing & Agencies Company (SAMACO) has brought the Audi A8 to COMDEX. The A8 does come equipped with a mini fridge. It also has a V8 4.2 liter, 310 horsepower engine. If that’s not enough muscle, a 420 horsepower engine can be specially ordered.
Masaud Parwani, SAMACO sales executive, demonstrated the car’s special e-features. The back seat passengers have access to a TV, video, facsimile, two telephones, dual DVDs and a laptop. For the security conscious, the car has global positioning and its body can be enhanced to become bombproof and bulletproof.
“These vehicles are selling well, especially for senior businessmen,” said Parwani.
“The sticker price starts at SR400,000 and with full-options the cost can reach SR2 million. But for people who need 24 X 7 communication and information combined with the ultimate in transport safety and dependability, this is the ideal automobile.”