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Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom
Ideally suited for the terrain and the driving conditions in the Kingdom, the BMW XM comes with 4WD Sand mode, conceived specifically for navigating terrain on and off the road.
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Updated 30 March 2023
Arab News

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi launches BMW XM in Kingdom
Updated 30 March 2023
Arab News

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi, the official importer of BMW Group vehicles in Saudi Arabia, launched the BMW XM, representing a fresh interpretation of the sports activity vehicle created out of the groundbreaking fusion of the high-performance BMW M and progressive plug-in hybrid technology.

The first BMW M original since the BMW M1, the new BMW XM is the automotive group’s latest offering in celebration of BMW M’s 50th anniversary, featuring the newly developed M Hybrid drive system, an extravagant design and progressive luxury ambience. Ideally suited for the terrain and the driving conditions in the Kingdom, the BMW XM comes with 4WD Sand mode, conceived specifically for navigating terrain on and off the road.

BACKGROUND

The first BMW M original since the BMW M1, the new BMW XM is the automotive group’s latest offering in celebration of BMW M’s 50th anniversary.

Commenting on the launch, Andre Bonthuys, managing director of BMW Group Saudi Arabia, said: “We are thrilled to launch the all-new BMW XM here in the Kingdom. This model is truly made for our customers, with the all-new M xDrive system ideal for navigating the country’s terrains. We are confident that the BMW XM will be a pillar of success in the M segment in the Kingdom, bringing new customers to experience the incredible power and performance of BMW M. Mohamed Yousuf Naghi is committed to being one of the first in the region to introduce new models, providing our valued customers with the latest that BMW has to offer.”

The M Hybrid drive system in the BMW XM delivers an overall output of 653 hp and is underpinned by a high-revving V8 engine with cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 4.4-liter engine is assisted by an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, delivering a maximum overall torque of 800 Nm.

The BMW XM sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, accompanied by an energy-charged soundtrack amplified by hexagonal dual tailpipes arranged one above the other for the first time on a BMW M model. Uniquely, the BMW IconicSounds Electric, developed in a collaboration with Hollywood music legend Hans Zimmer, creates a suitable backing track for the electric motor’s power delivery.

Chery Arrizo 8 — the new sought-after sedan in Kingdom

Chery Arrizo 8 — the new sought-after sedan in Kingdom
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

Chery Arrizo 8 — the new sought-after sedan in Kingdom

Chery Arrizo 8 — the new sought-after sedan in Kingdom
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

The new Arrizo 8 is the latest addition to Chery’s stellar lineup for this year. The model is an exceptionally appealing sedan, set on a newer chassis and powered by technologically superior petrol engines, ensuring the highest levels of comfort and fuel efficiency.

There are two variants being launched — a sporty version for the thrill-seekers, with a dot matrix grille featuring a blue trim, and the more premium, upmarket version with a unique grille design which features gold-colored trim. The light unit is visually striking, complete with LED daytime running lights, in addition to the main headlights, that make for an unforgettable look. The front also includes an LED stripe with the Chery badge in the middle, guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on its onlookers.

The Arrizo 8 is a sizable car with dimensions of 4,780/1,843/1,469 and a wheelbase measuring 2,790 mm. It is spacious from every angle, no matter how you look at it.

Sanabel Modern Motors Managing Director Abdullah Madhoun said that the launch of Arrizo 8, the newest Chery product, in the Saudi market is a testament to the successes of Chery and its models. Chery has grabbed a major market share and is highly competitive in the Kingdom.

Madhoun praised Chery’s innovative strategy in creating an interactive platform called “WCWL” to engage with users. The platform not only helps achieve 360-degree customer care service when using the car, but also provides users with a feedback mechanism, helps them schedule periodic servicing, and even lets the user in on activities for Chery owners.

The Arrizo 8 interior is upmarket with premium materials and upholstery, with the eye-catcher in the cabin being the sleek, 12.3-inch dual instrument panel. The infotainment system boasts soothing graphics and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in addition to having an integrated digital assistant.

Sanabel Modern Motors National Marketing Manager Ibrahim Hassan said the executives at Chery and Sanabel attach great importance to the company’s consumers in Saudi Arabia. They all agree that it is not only an important market for Chery products, but also a stepping stone in the progress to other global markets as well. “Chery will continue to keep investing in visionary human resources while maintaining exceptional customer satisfaction,” he said.

Hassan attributed the recent success achieved by the company in global markets, to its commitment to the philosophy of “focusing on the user,” and the constant focus toward existing and future consumers in other regions, listening to their needs, and meeting their expectations when it comes to Chery’s high quality products and services.

The sedan’s cabin features a three-spoked, D-shaped, sporty steering wheel that allows not only for easy ingress and egress but also provides a youthful feel. The driver is assisted with a range of controls and buttons, right at his fingertips, which helps to provide uninterrupted driving pleasure. The audio system boasts a Sony setup with eight speakers, providing for an immersive audio experience. Moving toward the rear of the cabin, the rear seats have enough space to seat three full-sized adults in comfort. There is no shortage of leg room and no compromise on comfort for the passengers sitting in the back, even on long journeys.

The Arrizo 8 looks like a hatchback due to its design that allows for exceptional cabin space but has a traditional sedan boot offering highly competitive boot space.

Unilever first company to add electric van to UAE logistics fleet

Unilever first company to add electric van to UAE logistics fleet
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

Unilever first company to add electric van to UAE logistics fleet

Unilever first company to add electric van to UAE logistics fleet
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

Unilever Arabia has announced the addition of the first-ever electric van to its fleet in the UAE. The incorporation of the 1-ton battery-powered van signifies a major stride in Unilever’s efforts toward reduced emissions via its logistics operations and achieving net-zero value chain emissions by 2039. 

As part of a strategic partnership with retailer Carrefour — which is owned and operated by Majid Al-Futtaim in the UAE — the EV van will initially deliver Unilever’s products to Carrefour’s Mall of the Emirates store. This will provide customers in Dubai with a sustainable delivery solution, reducing emissions by up to 15 percent in comparison with traditional vehicles. 

The region’s first EV van was launched in the presence of Youssef Lootah, CEO, corporate strategy and performance sector, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, along with Ahmed Kadous, Unilever’s head of supply chain MENA and PC Middle-East and Turkiye; Khalil Yassine, head of Unilever Arabia; and Luc Charrier, vice president of merchandise for Carrefour at Majid Al-Futtaim Retail.

Kadous said: “Sustainability is integrated into everything we do at Unilever. As part of our vision to ensure a purpose-led and sustainable business model, the EV van aligns with our bold ambitions toward delivering a profitable, yet responsible performance and growth. The introduction of electric vehicles to our delivery fleet is a core ambition and is central to Unilever’s sustainability commitment. We look forward to working more closely with the public sector and industry to further expand the infrastructure and seamlessly support the transition to electric mobility. I would like to congratulate the team for their unwavering efforts in driving Unilever’s vision forward and thank our partners for sharing our ambitions toward achieving a net-zero business model.”

Bertrand Loumaye, country manager for Carrefour at Majid Al-Futtaim Retail, said: “We are committed to sourcing and delivering sustainably sourced produce as part of our ‘Dare Today, Change Tomorrow’ strategy. The launch of the first electric delivery van in the UAE from Unilever, a highly valued partner, marks a major milestone in Majid Al-Futtaim’s journey to becoming net positive in carbon and water by 2040 — as well as our collaborative efforts to achieve the UAE’s Net-Zero 2050 strategy. It is exciting to be at the forefront of such momentous, positive change as we continue to make industry firsts happen.”

Prior to joining the existing fleet, the EV van underwent a series of planning and testing to ensure its readiness and compliance.

Major real estate investment exhibition begins in Jeddah

Major real estate investment exhibition begins in Jeddah
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

Major real estate investment exhibition begins in Jeddah

Major real estate investment exhibition begins in Jeddah
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

The first edition of the Saudi Real Estate Development and Ownership Exhibition 2023, the leading real estate event in the Kingdom, opened on May 28, welcoming more than 60 international and regional developers.

The event, spanning 10,000 square meters of exhibition space, was officially inaugurated by Saad Al-Otaibi, member of the board at Jeddah Chamber.

Taking place until May 31 at the Jeddah Center for Forums and Events, the exhibition is Saudi Arabia’s largest and most influential property investment showcase, expecting to attract more than 15,000 visitors with an interest in purchasing or promoting real estate.

A highlight this year includes dialogue sessions and workshops to review opportunities and modern methods in real estate development, in addition to a number of specialized training courses. The event features the participation of competent authorities and real estate developers and financing agencies, who will review the opportunities and modern methods in real estate development.

The Saudi Exhibition for Real Estate Development and Ownership, or SEREDO, is considered a major platform to develop and upgrade the Saudi real estate market, as it brings together the agencies that serve the real estate sector and its pioneers under one roof, contributing to the exchange of experiences, dissemination of knowledge and raising awareness among visitors of the exhibition about the importance of real estate investment and real estate products, in addition to providing successful marketing solutions to meet the demand.

Abdulrahman Al-Zahrani, general manager of Aalyalshan Company, the organizer of the exhibition, said the goal is to present an effective real estate exhibition that contributes to the development and advancement of the Saudi real estate market.

Al-Zahrani said that holding such specialized real estate exhibitions is in tune with the aspirations to upgrade the sector and diversify economic resources to increase the contribution of the non-oil sectors to the GDP.

He also pointed out the positive results being achieved in the real estate sector, which are in line with the positive indicators in the economic plan.

Al-Zahrani noted the government’s measures to attract investments in the real estate sector, implement Saudi Vision 2030 and achieve the sustainable development goals.

It is expected that the volume of real estate financing in the coming period will reach more than SR100 billion ($26.6 billion). This will reflect on real estate demand, market stability and growth, in addition to the facilities and infrastructure provided by the government that encourage real estate investment and require expertise, planning and analysis.

Amidst the rise in real estate market indicators in Saudi Arabia, studies show that the Kingdom needs more than 3 million housing units until 2040.

Omoda and Jaecoo set up Riyadh office for Saudi launch

Omoda and Jaecoo set up Riyadh office for Saudi launch
Updated 28 May 2023
Arab News

Omoda and Jaecoo set up Riyadh office for Saudi launch

Omoda and Jaecoo set up Riyadh office for Saudi launch
Updated 28 May 2023
Arab News

Lately, Omoda and Jaecoo have been winning the hearts of customers across the globe. In the list of their success stories, Mexico, Australia, South Africa and other EU countries are on the top. With this, Omoda and Jaecoo are going to set their foot in the Saudi market in the third quarter of 2023 and 30 other countries altogether.

The parent company of Omoda and Jaecoo in China is already serving 11.2 million consumers globally, becoming the biggest passenger car exporter in the country. This also indicates that Omoda and Jaecoo are well equipped to enter the Saudi market with all their R&D and experience. In fact, during the Auto Shanghai show, they launched their Omoda 5 EV model. Globally, they hold a prestigious reputation and widespread popularity with young, smart technology-driven and urban elite consumers who understand and value future technology and luxury.

Omoda aims to offer a lifestyle to their consumers and not just a piece of metal. Omoda is the sheer depiction of cutting-edge technology. In fact, the slogan of Omoda is “Cross From Future,” which is based on the characteristics of target consumers who seek fashion and freedom and are no longer shackled by conventional norms. Also, Omoda as a brand is bold, so individuals who are fearless and passionate about socializing will certainly vibe with this brand. Omoda is devoted to providing users with personalized, dynamic, technological and smart travel experiences through crossover products.

Even though cars cannot be summarized in single words, Jaecoo makes it tempting to try: It is sophisticated. While their global launch at the Shanghai auto show turned some heads, the response from the media was evident when the curtains were raised. Needless to say, Jaecoo’s drop-dead styling alone inside and out was roaring luxury. Jaecoo is positioned as an urban road-off SUV brand and is oriented to urban elites with exquisite taste and extraordinary style.

Just like the brands Omoda and Jaecoo, the business strategy is also bold. Almost all car manufacturers find themselves major distributors and conduct their business through them in the Kingdom. However, Omoda and Jaecoo have not adopted the conventional way, instead, they are setting up their own international office in the capital city of Riyadh. This means the level of services they would provide in all aspects would be far better than any other car manufacturer. Their customers would have access to the principal company directly in Saudi Arabia. While car services have become a major issue for other auto brands, nevertheless, for Omoda and Jaecoo it will not be the case, as their maintenance centers and other services will be directly under the supervision of their subsidiary here in the Kingdom. This would be a game-changer in the Saudi automobile industry. For sales, each region will have a few selected dealers, which will be monitored by the subsidiary in the Kingdom. All showrooms and other facilities will be jointly developed with them.

New ‘coffee ritual’ Starbucks Oleato arrives in Riyadh

New ‘coffee ritual’ Starbucks Oleato arrives in Riyadh
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

New ‘coffee ritual’ Starbucks Oleato arrives in Riyadh

New ‘coffee ritual’ Starbucks Oleato arrives in Riyadh
Updated 29 May 2023
Arab News

Starbucks customers in the Middle East can now try the new Starbucks Oleato beverages at select stores in Riyadh.

Starbucks Oleato is a new, unexpected coffee ritual, bringing together Starbucks arabica coffee, infused with premium extra virgin olive oil. The result is a velvety smooth, deliciously lush coffee that uplifts each cup with an extraordinary new flavor and texture.

Having launched in Italy, followed by Chicago, Seattle and New York in the US, selected stores across Japan, Paris and London over the past months, the two new beverages have now arrived in the Middle East. The Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew and Oleato Iced Shaken Espresso will be available at selected Starbucks stores across the region.

As for the Oleato Golden Foam Cold Brew, cold foam contrasts with dark, smooth cold brew, creating subtle sweetness and the inviting aroma of lush extra virgin olive oil infused cold foam.

Meanwhile, the Oleato Iced Shaken Espresso comprises rich espresso sweetened with notes of toasted nuts and creamy oats infused with extra virgin olive oil.

Michelle Chin, vice president, marketing, product, digital and sustainability at Starbucks EMEA, said: “At Starbucks, we are always looking for new ways to innovate and bring new, exciting flavors to our customers, and our priority is to be relentless in creating new beverages and experiences that continue to exceed their expectations. The fusion between Starbucks’ finest arabica coffee beans and extra virgin olive oil — a unique pairing between two of nature’s finest ingredients — produces an elevated hand-crafted coffee experience. After their first sip of Oleato, we are confident that coffee lovers will reconsider their regular routines in favor of this revolutionary new coffee ritual.”

Italy’s romance with coffee, food and connection has served as an inspiration for Starbucks since the company’s earliest days — and that continues with Starbucks Oleato beverages. Originally inspired by a time-honored Italian tradition, Starbucks Oleato aims to deliver the next transformational community coffee ritual to the world.

Andy Holmes, president of Alshaya Starbucks, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Starbucks Oleato for the first time to our customers in the Middle East, introducing a revolutionary new coffee ritual to the region’s coffee aficionados. The alchemy of coffee and olive oil creates a rich texture, blending the buttery, round flavors of olive oil with the soft, chocolatey notes of coffee — it’s truly one-of-a-kind.”

Coffee lovers in Riyadh can also try an exclusive sensory experience at Starbucks Riyadh Park, which will immerse people in the Sicilian heritage via Starbucks Oleato Portal. Through a series of bespoke Italian arches, customers can step through four distinct aspects of the Oleato experience that will immerse all four senses — touch, smell, sound and taste — to bring to life the infusion of Arabica coffee beans and extra virgin olive oil.

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