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Lincoln marks a successful 2024 with strong sales growth n the middle east

Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha-Qatar, 3 February 2025 – As Lincoln celebrates 103-year of elegance and innovation on February 4, the brand has concluded a successful 2024 with sales achieving 17% year-on-year increase. The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia emerged as Lincoln’s top-performing markets, each registering a 21% YoY growth. Commenting on this exceptional sales performance, Ravi Ravichandran, President, Ford Middle East, said, “We are grateful to our distributor partners for their dedication to the Lincoln brand. Their efforts have been instrumental in achieving yet another successful year for Lincoln in the region, solidifying our status as one of the most desired automotive brands.” He added, “This year, we are thrilled to introduce the all-new Lincoln Navigator to our customers, whose addition will complete the brand’s most refreshed lineup, alongside the all-new Nautilus and the new Aviator introduced in 2024. As our flagship SUV, it will feature the first-ever Lincoln Split Gate and the unique multisensory experience known as Lincoln Rejuvenate, setting a new benchmark for full-size luxury SUVs in the region.” The Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair led the charge as the brand’s top-selling vehicles by volume last year. The mid-size Nautilus SUV (launched in 2024) offers customers the choice of two powertrains; a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque, as well as a hybrid powertrain boasting a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission and 100kW electric motor for a total output of 310 horsepower. The 2025 Nautilus with the immersive 48” display – the largest in its class – is also the first Lincoln nameplate in the region to offer Lincoln Rejuvenate; a multisensory experience that combines sight, sound, touch, and scent to help occupants unwind and reduce stress, providing increased relaxation. The strong-selling compact SUV Corsair – delivering versatility, style, and a spacious interior including plush, hand-selected materials – features nimble performance from a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with Auto Start-Stop technology mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 250 horsepower and 373 Nm of torque. In terms of year-on-year growth, matching the Nautilus’ impressive increase in sales of 46%, was the Aviator, a large three-row SUV combining power and elegance. Captivating both inside and out, Aviator has been meticulously crafted for connoisseurs of refinement, complemented by effortless performance from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating an impressive 400 horsepower and 563 Nm of torque. Looking ahead, Lincoln is poised for continued success with the highly anticipated launch of the all-new Navigator in the Middle East later this year. The flagship SUV will redefine luxury and capability, further enriching the Lincoln lineup.

Doha Film Institute’s ‘Geekend’ Returns From 6–8 February with Largest Creative Marketplace To Date

Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar; February 3, 2025: Geekend, the region’s premier pop culture event by Doha Film Institute, returns this February with its largest creative marketplace yet—the Geekend Market. The event will bring together 37 Qatari and regional talents, including participants from the UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait, for an exciting three-day celebration of creativity and community. Taking place from 6–8 February at the Geekdom Building on Lusail Boulevard, Geekend 2025 will unite Qatar’s diverse geek communities for a weekend of camaraderie and collaboration. Abdulla Al Mosallam, Chief Administrative Officer of Doha Film Institute, and Founder of Geekdom, said: “What makes this year’s Geekend truly special is the extensive participation of Qatari and regional creative talents, making it the largest of its kind Geekend Market to date. This underlines our support and commitment to nurturing talent and building a vibrant ecosystem for content creators in Qatar. Geekend has evolved considerably since its inception not only as a showcase of creativity that brings together like-minded creative individuals and geek enthusiasts but also in building the creative economy of Qatar.” At the Geekend Market, visitors can engage with numerous creative talents, including character designers, concept artists, storyboard artists, and fan artists, who will showcase their talents. Visitors can purchase original artwork, merchandise, and collectables directly from the creators, supporting the local and regional creative community. Geekend also features multiple zones catering to diverse interests. Visitors can relax at the Geekend Lounge or enjoy snacks and beverages at the Geekdom Café. Gaming enthusiasts can participate in competitive board game tournaments, including Quoridor and the first official Qatar Catan Championship, hosted by Majlis Shabab. The winner of the championship will be sponsored by SuperHeated Neurons to represent Qatar at the Catan World Championship 2025 in Germany. Side quests and a board game area with games for all skill levels will also be available. The Escape Room – The Black Forest invites players to solve riddles and challenges to secure their escape. Stage programmes include Karaoke Nights, a Cosplay 101 Workshop, the Yorozuya Anime Quiz, and other anime events hosted by Team Nakama. Visitors can also join a weekend gaming challenge and other fun-filled activities. As always, Geekend serves as a vital networking platform for creative professionals, fostering collaboration and strengthening Qatar’s creative sector. Artists, designers, and contemporary culture enthusiasts will find opportunities to connect, share ideas, and build relationships in a welcoming environment. Tickets for the three-day event are priced at just QAR 20 per day, providing access to a vibrant celebration of pop culture and creativity. For more details please visit: https://www.dohafilminstitute.com/nowplaying/geekend Geekend has become a highly anticipated event on Qatar’s cultural calendar since 2023, attracting a diverse group of artists and creatives from across the region, reflecting its growing popularity and appeal amongst the community. Over the past 2 years, Geekend has seen 347 participants, many of whom have turned their creative projects into independent businesses or licensed ventures, contributing to Qatar’s evolving creative economy.

Volvo Trucks Makes History with the Launch of Qatar’s First-Ever Heavy-Duty Electric Truck

Reading Time: 3 minutes– Pioneering Sustainability: Launch of the Volvo FH Electric marks the introduction of the first heavy-duty electric truck in Qatar, setting a new benchmark for the nation’s green mobility transformation.  – Unmatched Performance: Designed to redefine heavy transportation, the Volvo FH Electric offers a range of up to 300 km, charging time of just 2.5 hours (fast charger), and an impressive 666 horsepower.  – Strategic Innovation: Strengthens Qatar’s position as a regional leader in adopting cutting-edge, zero-emission transportation technologies.  Doha, January xx, 2024— Domasco and Volvo Trucks, the global leader in electrification of heavy vehicles, is set to revolutionize Qatar’s transport landscape with the unveiling of the Volvo FH Electric, the nation’s first-ever heavy-duty electric truck. Hosted at the iconic Fire Station venue—an artistic hub and event space in Doha—the launch signals a bold step forward in Qatar’s sustainability and decarbonization efforts.  The Volvo FH Electric is designed to deliver exceptional performance, offering a seamless balance between power, efficiency, and sustainability. With a Gross Combination Weight (GCW) of up to 44 tonnes and a range of advanced features, it meets the demands of Qatar’s growing industries while contributing to the nation’s green transition.  Specifications include:  – Range: Up to 300 km per charge.  – Charging Time: 2.5 hours (fast charger) or 9.5 hours (overnight charger).  – Power: Up to 666 horsepower with a battery capacity ranging from 180 to 540 kWh.  As the first of its kind in the region, the Volvo FH Electric aligns seamlessly with Qatar’s sustainability strategy, which includes the government’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. Qatar has pledged to lower greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2030 through targeted awareness campaigns and progressive policies. This launch, driven by Domasco’s initiative to make the Volvo Electric Truck available in Qatar, further reinforces its alignment with the nation’s vision. By supporting Qatar’s government in advancing green mobility across all industries, Domasco underscores the critical role of zero-emission technology in achieving decarbonization targets within the logistics and heavy transportation sectors, paving the way for a more sustainable future. Ramez Hamdan, Managing Director of Industrial Equipment, commented: “The launch of the Volvo FH Electric is a testament to our dedication to driving sustainable transformation in the region. By introducing Qatar’s first heavy-duty electric truck, we are not only revolutionizing the logistics and transportation sectors but also setting a new standard for innovation and environmental stewardship[LS1] .” This launch highlights Volvo Trucks’ unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. With competitors yet to introduce electric models in Qatar, Volvo Trucks is paving the way for a cleaner, more efficient future in transportation. 

Visit Qatar announces five-year partnership with Professional Triathletes Organisation

Reading Time: 4 minutesFrom 2025 to 2029 the T100 Triathlon World Championship Final to be held in Doha Visit Qatar, the Professional Triathletes Organisation, World Triathlon, and the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation have announced the hosting of the Triathlon World Championship Finals Qatar T100 from 2025 to 2029. This comes as part of a five-year partnership agreement between Visit Qatar and the Professional Triathletes Organisation. The inaugural Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final will be held from December 11th – 13th, 2025. The swim leg will take place in the Arabian Gulf, while the bike and run legs will navigate through Doha and Lusail, passing several iconic landmarks such as the Lusail Stadium. The multisport festival weekend will also offer a series of swim, bike, and run events for amateurs, including the chance for amateur athletes to participate in the new 100km triathlon distance (2km swim, 80km bike, 18km run) alongside the best professional triathletes in the world. Commenting on the partnership, Eng. Abdulaziz Al–Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said: “We are delighted to partner with the Professional Triathletes Organisation to host the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final in our vibrant cities for the next five years. This event underscores Qatar’s growing reputation as a premier sports destination, showcasing our commitment to hosting world-class international sporting events. Qatar’s infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities, and rich sports culture offers the perfect environment to host this event. This collaboration further strengthens Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports tourism, inspiring both professional athletes and enthusiasts alike.” Antonio F. Arimany, President of World Triathlon, who have designated the series as the ‘Official World Championship Tour of long-distance triathlon’, added: “The T100 Triathlon World Championship Final represents a new chapter for our sport, combining elite competition with global accessibility and participation. As we continue to grow triathlon around the world, confirming the presence of the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final on the calendar for the next five years is another major milestone for our great sport in this dynamic region. Partnering with Visit Qatar and the Qatari Triathlon Federation to host this prestigious event in Doha ensures not only a world-class experience for professional athletes but also an incredible opportunity for the broader triathlon community to connect with our sport. Qatar’s dedication to innovation and excellence aligns seamlessly with our vision for the T100 series, and we’re excited to see triathlon thrive in this dynamic and inspiring destination. Mass participation events are once more thriving alongside the elite racing around the world and really building into a major movement in the Middle East.” Sam Renouf, CEO of the PTO, said at a press conference held in Doha: “We have always been clear about our strategy for the T100 Triathlon World Tour – to feature iconic locations and create a world-class destination for our series. This five-year partnership with Visit Qatar allows us to achieve that vision in one of the fastest-growing, family-friendly tourist destinations in the world, which welcomed more than five million visitors last year. Qatar’s residents and visitors are showing increasing demand not only to attend world-class sporting events but also to participate in them. The legacy of major events like the FIFA World Cup and Formula 1 has encouraged such demand. The season-long series will be known as the T100 Race to Qatar and will not only be a spectacular finale for our new professional series, but also provide opportunities for amateur swimmers, cyclists, and runners – from first timers to the inaugural T100 Age Group World Championships.” He added: “Qatar is a nation with a deep respect for its heritage, yet one that is firmly focused on the future. In addition to its role as a hub for global universities and cutting-edge health and research centres, the country has a rapidly growing sports ecosystem, including training, sports medicine, and wellness facilities. This aligns perfectly with the goals we have for the T100 series.” Abdulaziz Al Tamimi, Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation President said, “As President of the Qatar Triathlon Federation, I am thrilled to announce that hosting the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final over the next five years marks a significant milestone in strengthening Qatar’s position as a global hub for sports. This prestigious event aligns with our vision to elevate triathlon in Qatar and support our athletes in achieving international excellence.” “As a passionate triathlete, it has always been a dream to witness a world-class event like this in our homeland. Hosting this championship simplifies logistical challenges for athletes and reflects Qatar’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture. Developing our national team is a key priority, as we prepare our athletes to compete globally and proudly represent Qatar. The presence of elite triathletes offers opportunities for inspiration and growth, encouraging the community to embrace the sport.” he added. He concluded by saying, “This championship will inspire younger generations to adopt active lifestyles, aligning with Qatar’s National Vision 2030. By hosting this event, we reinforce Qatar’s legacy of organizing world-class sporting events that promote health, wellness, and resilience. We look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators from around the globe to share in this incredible experience and celebrate the sport of triathlon together.” The list of athletes for the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Tour was announced earlier this month, with a remarkable group of Olympic champions and World Championship winners from 13 countries participating. The women’s field will be led by American and Belgian Olympians Taylor Knibb and Marten Van Riel, who won the inaugural T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals in Dubai, becoming the first-ever T100 series world champions. Each athlete will have to compete in at least five of the ten T100 races during the season, with their four best scores plus their result in the Qatar T100 Triathlon World Championship Final, where points will count double, contributing to their final T100 standing. Qatar’s global positioning as a hub for international sporting excellence continues to grow, and events such as the 2025 T100 Triathlon World Championship contribute to its

Lincoln Nautilus Wins a 2024 Popular Science Best of What’s New Award

Reading Time: < 1 minuteDoha-Qatar, Jan. 28, 2025 – The all-new Lincoln Nautilus is the Grand Auto Winner in the 2024 Popular Science Best of What’s New awards Automotive category. Each year the editors of Popular Science review thousands of new products and innovations and choose the top 50 winners across 10 categories. To win, a product or technology must represent a significant step forward in its category and the Nautilus has done just that with new, effortless connectivity. “Simply put, the Nautilus is a mobile communication center with luxury seats.” says the Popular Science Team. The all-new Nautilus advances the notion of sanctuary with a reimagined interior that maximizes space and gives you a sense of tranquility with the help of new, connected experiences. The Lincoln Digital Experience comes to life through the 48-inch panoramic display that is crafted around the driver to be simple and intuitive. The system is designed to help you stay connected and provides easy access to music, podcasts, videos, and gaming apps from the Google Play store when the vehicle is in park. See the complete list of Popular Science ‘2024 Best of What’s New Awards’ here.

Doha Film Institute Opens Submissions for 2025 Qatari Film Fund to Nurture Homegrown Film Ecosystem

Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar; January 27, 2025:  Doha Film Institute has announced that submissions for the 2025 Qatari Film Fund (QFF) will open on January 26, underlining its commitment to nurturing local voices and building a robust creative economy. Since its inception, the Qatari Film Fund has supported more than xx projects, with Above the Tamarind Tree by Buthyna Al-Mohammadi and I Lay For You To Sleep by Ali Al Hajri gaining acclaim at the 2024 Ajyal Film Festival. Two QFF projects, awarded in 2024, are currently in pre-production: Sad Boy: The Movie by Qatari artist N&LS, which is set in a surreal and melancholic world, and follows the story of a grief-stricken boy who learns to navigate pain and haunting memories by embarking on an emotional journey toward healing and self-discovery, and Maria and the Unicorn by filmmaker Kholoud Al-Ali, a touching tale about a lonely girl whose life transforms when she befriends a lost unicorn but tensions arise when the girl is faced with helping the unicorn find its way back. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute, said: ” Qatar Film Fund has been a cornerstone in the development of our national film industry, providing vital support to emerging and established filmmakers. Over the years, QFF has helped create a strong national film ecosystem, with local talents benefiting not only from funding but from comprehensive script-to-screen support. It has empowered our storytellers to bring their unique visions to life, fostering a vibrant creative community and positioning Qatar as a hub for cinematic excellence. Through this fund, we are not only advancing our local talent but also sharing our culture and stories with the world.” Supporting the skills and accomplishments of Qatari filmmakers, the Fund is committed to the development of up to four feature films, and the development, production and post-production of up to eight short films annually. Feature films developed through the fund are eligible for financial support for production, and one film will be selected for production funding in the following year. Short films are eligible for funding valued at up to QAR182,500 that includes development, production and post-production funds, mentorship, equipment and production support from the Institute. They must adhere to specific duration limits: short narrative films should not exceed 12 minutes, 2D animation should be limited to 7 minutes, and documentaries can run up to 30 minutes. Feature film treatments and screenplays at any level of progress are eligible for development funding valued at up to QAR182,500 that includes development services, mentorship, equipment and other support from the Institute. The duration for feature-length films are defined as 80 minutes or longer, and the director applying for funding must have completed at least one short film. DFI’s team of experts will work closely with successful applicants throughout the development, production and post-production stages, working with each filmmaker to develop and finalise scripts, establish budgets and schedules, secure creative and technical teams and provide mentorship opportunities with industry specialists as required. For feature films, the support includes script notes and feedback, script editors, writers’ fees, legal services, location scouting, budgeting and scheduling and casting, among others. Recipients of the Qatari Film Fund will also receive creative and technical training and mentoring through Doha Film Institute’s Learning Initiatives. Qatari directors and writers can submit their applications from January 26 until February 13, 2025, covering various genres, including narrative, documentary, and 2D animation projects. Applicants can add production feasibility in their scripts, particularly regarding location numbers and cast size. The selection process involves three comprehensive stages, beginning with initial project submission to be sent by email to qff@dohafilminstitute.com, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates, and final selection. Those who are not selected will also receive valuable feedback and development suggestions through the Institute’s Learning Initiatives, with the opportunity to reapply in future funding cycles. For detailed information visit: https://www.dohafilminstitute.com/financing/grants/qff

West Lake Motors Unveils SOUEAST brand in Qatar at an exclusive launch event

Reading Time: 5 minutes– West Lake Motors introduced the SOUEAST brand to Qatar with a grand launch event at Barahat Msheireb, unveiling three impressive models, Soueast S06, Soueast S07, and Soueast S09.– The event, attended by 150 distinguished guests, seamlessly blended Qatar’s rich hospitality with SOUEAST’s cutting-edge vehicles, promising a new era of mobility for exclusivity-seeking customers. Doha, Qatar, January 27th, 2025:  – West Lake Motors Co., a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, has successfully introduced the SOUEAST automotive brand to Qatar in a spectacular launch event held recently at Barahat Msheireb. The exclusive event attracted VIPs, customers, media, and automotive enthusiasts, with over 150 guests in attendance, and marked the debut of three impressive SOUEAST models in the Qatari market, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality in the automotive industry. The event not only highlighted SOUEAST’s entry into the Qatari market but also demonstrated the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation and quality in the automotive industry. The grand unveiling included the introduction of three cutting-edge SOUEAST models: the SOUEAST S06, SOUEAST S07, and SOUEAST S09. These models were carefully selected to represent the brand’s diverse offerings, from compact SUVs to larger, more luxurious vehicles, giving potential customers a broad range of options to explore. Christopher Preston, Executive Director of West Lake Motors, added: ” We are excited to introduce SOUEAST to Qatar, marking a significant step in our commitment to offering both innovative vehicles and new mobility options to the local market. This launch is a two-fold approach: not only are we bringing a fresh brand to Qatar, but we are also providing customers with cars that feature advanced technologies, fuel-efficient engines, and sleek, modern designs. The SOUEAST range is designed to set new standards in its segments, offering a perfect balance of style, performance, and practicality. These vehicles are tailored to meet the evolving needs of Qatari consumers, who are seeking quality, efficiency, and cutting-edge features. We are confident that SOUEAST will quickly become a popular choice and look forward to seeing these cars become a regular presence on Qatar’s roads, reflecting the country’s demand for high-quality, modern automotive solutions.” Dai Lihong, Executive Vice President of SOUEAST Motor pointed out, “The launch of the three products – S09, S07 and S06 – is based on in-depth market research, and is designed to satisfy the different needs of users. The launch of the three new products – S09, S07 and S06 – is based on in-depth market research and is designed to meet different user needs. The simultaneous launch of these three new products also demonstrates our determination to always put customer needs first. In our future planning, we will also continue to launch a richer and more diverse range of products.” He continued, “The Qatari market, with its growing demand for quality vehicles, is an important focus for SOUEAST Motor. The company’s product offerings are well-suited to meet the diverse preferences of Qatari consumers, positioning SOUEAST for continued growth in this key market.” Alex Tan, Vice President of SOUEAST International, stated, “With our ‘EASE YOUR LIFE’ philosophy, we deliver on ‘EASY TO OWN,’ ‘EASY TO DRIVE,’ and ‘EASY TO CONNECT,’ ensuring seamless ownership, smart mobility, and engaging services.” The Qatari market, with its rapidly growing economy and increasing demand for innovative, reliable vehicles, is a key focus for SOUEAST. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure and smart technologies, SOUEAST is well-positioned to meet the needs of Qatari consumers, offering solutions that align with their preferences for quality, convenience, and modern mobility. This strategic focus on Qatar reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the region. Amir Darwish, National Sales Manager at West Lake Motors , expressed his enthusiasm: ” The launch of SOUEAST in Qatar represents a significant milestone in our continued commitment to offering world-class automotive solutions to the region. This partnership reflects our strategic vision of delivering innovative, high-quality vehicles that meet the diverse and dynamic needs of the Qatari market. As the automotive industry here continues to evolve, we are confident that SOUEAST’s range of vehicles—characterized by cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and sophisticated design—will resonate deeply with our customers. We are confident that these vehicles will exceed the high expectations of Qatari consumers and play a pivotal role in the development of the local automotive market, introducing fresh and competitive options. We are excited to introduce SOUEAST’s vehicles to Qatar and look forward to how they will elevate the driving experience for our valued customers.” The event showcased three impressive models from SOUEAST’s lineup: SOUEAST S06The SOUEAST S06 is a compact SUV that combines style with functionality. Its sleek design, spacious interior, and advanced technology features, make it ideal for urban driving. The event also introduced the S06 hybrid variant, highlighting SOUEAST’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation solutions. SOUEAST S07The S07 model represents SOUEAST’s entry into the mid-size SUV segment. It perfectly balances power, comfort, and versatility, catering to families and adventure enthusiasts alike. The S07 boasts impressive safety features and a capable infotainment system. SOUEAST S09As the flagship model, the SOUEAST S09 blends luxury and performance. This full-size SUV is designed to impress with its foreboding presence, premium interiors, and state-of-the-art technology. About SOUEASTSOUEAST Motor is a renowned automotive manufacturer known for its innovative approach to vehicle design and technology. The brand’s philosophy, “EASE YOUR LIFE,” is reflected in every aspect of their vehicles, from user-friendly interfaces to comfortable interiors. SOUEAST’s commitment to tech innovation is evident in its advanced drivetrain technologies, innovative connectivity features, and focus on sustainable mobility solutions. With the slogan “EASE YOUR LIFE,” SOUEAST aims to inspire drivers to embrace a spirit of adventure and sophistication. The brand’s range of vehicles is designed to cater to various lifestyle needs, offering options from compact city cars to luxurious SUVs. SOUEAST new showroom-coming soon where this modern space will showcase the full range of SOUEAST models, providing customers with a unique opportunity to explore the brand’s latest vehicles in a stylish and spacious setting. Stay tuned !

Sealine Season Draws More Than 48,000 Visitors as Al Samri Night Shines Bright

Reading Time: < 1 minuteVisit Qatar’s Sealine Season, organised for the first time as a complete desert experience, has achieved remarkable success to date, welcoming more than 48,000 visitors since opening on January 3rd. Al Samri Night, held on January 24th, was a standout event, attracting an enthusiastic crowd who experienced the rich cultural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula. The Samri Band, consisting of 400 members, captivated more than 23,000 visitors with their traditional music and poetry. In an impressive feat, the entire site was fully prepared in just 72 hours, showcasing exceptional planning and execution. The final Sealine Season weekend also treated visitors to drone shows, a dazzling fireworks display, and the excitement of the Sealine Digital Raffle. With activities running until January 27th, the Sealine Season continues to offer diverse experiences, including desert safaris adventures and family-friendly entertainment such as football, volleyball, kids’ activities, and creative workshops. The overwhelming response from visitors underscores Sealine’s enduring appeal as a premier seasonal destination, celebrating Qatar’s rich culture and adventure-filled experiences.

Auto Class Cars Launches the New MG HS in Qatar: A Bold Step in the Middle East’s Mid-Size SUV Segment

Reading Time: 4 minutesDoha, Qatar, 25 January 2025: Auto Class Cars, the authorized general distributor for MG in Qatar, has proudly revealed the new new MG HS, in Qatar, in a special ceremony held at MG Qatar showroom in Lusail. The new MG HS unveiling took place in the presence of Mr. Frank Zauner, General Manager, Zaher Janbieh General Sales Manager, and Ahmad Firoozi, Marketing Manager at Auto Class Cars, alongside distinguished guests, and representatives of media. The new MG HS brings a bold new vision to the segment, building further on its international success. It is an exceptional mid-size SUV that redefines style, performance and technology in the sector. Building on the success of the first-generation MG HS, which was voted Middle East Car of the Year by a panel of industry experts in 2020, the new model is now available at Qatar at Auto Class Cars, in MG Qatar showrooms on Salwa Road and in Lusail. Mr. Frank Zauner, General Manager, Auto Class Cars said: “We are proud to present the new MG HS—a mid-size SUV that redefines style, performance, and technology in its segment. This launch represents the next chapter in our mission to elevate the driving experience and set new benchmarks in the automotive industry. Today’s reveal of the new MG HS resembles a beginning of another successful year, following a remarkable year, during which we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the MG brand, achieved several milestone accomplishments, launched new vehicles, and inaugurated this very showroom. We gather once again to continue this journey of success for Auto Class Cars with the launch of the new MG HS. Auto Class Cars is steadfast in its commitment to delivering the latest and most innovative products from the MG brand to our valued customers in Qatar, consistently meeting their expectations and demands”. Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East, remarked: “The new MG HS represents the next step in our journey to redefine the mid-size SUV experience. Designed with the needs of young, ambitious drivers in mind, it combines passion, power, and practicality. If buyers are looking for a reliable SUV which is both sporty and stylish, the MG HS delivers on all fronts, making it a game-changer in the segment.” The new MG HS safety systems The new MG HS offers exceptional value for money. With its sporty design and advanced features, the new MG HS is perfect for younger buyers seeking passion, drive and control in their everyday adventures. The new MG HS is designed to stand out in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, offering a perfect balance of style, performance, and technology. Its five-star Euro NCAP safety rating highlights MG’s commitment to safety, with the Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) providing added convenience and protection. Safety is further enhanced with features such as Intelligent Cruise Control, Automated Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Information System. The vehicle includes a 360-degree HD camera, front and rear parking sensors, and up to six airbags, ensuring maximum occupant security. Performance Under the bonnet, the new MG HS offers two powerful and efficient engine options. Drivers can choose between a 1.5T powerplant, delivering 173 hp with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, or the 2.0T engine, producing 231 hp with a 9-speed automatic transmission. These engines, coupled with superior handling dynamics and enhanced NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, make every drive smooth, responsive, and exhilarating. The sporty three-spoke squaricle steering wheel adds a touch of dynamism, ensuring an engaging driving experience that matches the SUV’s bold character. Bold design and advanced technology features Visually, the MG HS is a masterpiece of modern design. Its striking ‘Hunting Eye’ LED headlights and ‘The Shard’ full-length LED taillights lend it a confident and sophisticated look. Inside, the cabin combines high quality materials with cutting-edge technology. Dual 12.3-inch HD screens provide a fully immersive digital cockpit experience, while the premium BOSE audio system with eight speakers delivers crystal-clear sound. Convenience features such as dual-zone air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers, a wireless phone charger, and seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration further benefit the driving experience. Practicality meets elegance in the MG HS, with a power tailgate and a versatile cargo capacity of up to 1,397 litres, making it perfect for family adventures and weekend getaways. The electronic panoramic roof invites natural light into the cabin, creating a spacious and airy feel, while memory functions for the driver’s seat and mirrors add a personalised touch. By delivering a winning combination of utility, performance, and affordability, the MG HS offers unparalleled value for young professionals and families.

Silver Lake Motors Introduces OMODA & JAECOO to Further the Automotive Landscape in Qatar

Reading Time: 3 minutesDoha, Qatar – January 23, 2025 – In an exciting development, Silver Lake Motors, a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding, has established a distribution agreement with OMODA & JAECOO, the innovative automotive brands under the Chery Group umbrella. This collaboration marks OMODA & JAECOO’s expansion into the Middle Eastern market, with Qatar at the forefront of this offering. OMODA & JAECOO has garnered attention for its youth-focused vehicles that merge striking design, state-of-the-art technology, and exceptional performance. The brand is set to pilot in a new era of automotive excellence, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Through this partnership, Silver Lake Motors reinforces its commitment to bringing premium, eco-conscious vehicles to the local customers. Guibing Zhang, the President of Chery International, commented, “The strategic partnership established with Al Mana Holding marks a significant stride in our advancement within the automotive market of Qatar. This collaboration deepens our commitment to Chinese automotive brands in the Qatari market and broadens our global market presence. Through this alliance, we will be able to offer a more diverse range of products, catering to the Qatari consumers’ pursuit of high-quality, high-performance vehicles. We look forward to working hand in hand with Al Mana Holding to enhance the market influence of Chinese automotive brands in Qatar and throughout the Middle East region, providing local consumers with a greater variety of choices and innovative experiences.”- Commenting on this agreement, Hisham Saleh Al Mana, Chairman and Managing Director of Al Mana Holding, stated, “This collaboration represents a significant leap forward for our organization. By introducing the OMODA & JAECOO brand, we are expanding our portfolio of high-quality vehicles and contributing to Qatar’s sustainable development objectives. OMODA & JAECOO’s products embody our dedication to innovation, luxury, and environmental stewardship. We are proud to align ourselves with a brand that shares our commitment to both excellence and sustainability, further solidifying our position in the Qatari market and supporting the nation’s broader goals for a sustainable future.”. Ping Ding, Brand Manager, Silver Lake Motors, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “At Silver Lake Motors, we are delighted to offer OMODA & JAECOO’s innovative and high-quality vehicles through this promising partnership. Qatar has long been a pivotal player in the automotive sector, and we are excited to contribute to this dynamic market by providing car enthusiasts with exceptional products that combine cutting-edge design, performance, and sustainability. At Silver Lake Motors, we are committed to not only offering top-tier vehicles but also delivering unparalleled customer service to ensure an outstanding ownership experience. This partnership reflects our dedication to meeting the evolving demands of the Qatari market and reinforcing our position as a trusted and forward-thinking leader in the automotive industry.” Exclusively through Silver Lake Motors, automotive enthusiasts will have access to the range of OMODA & JAECOO models: OMODA C5:The OMODA C5 is a fashionable and dynamic SUV with future technology. It features a 1.5T engine, 10.25-inch dual screens, and 17 ADAS functions. The C5 aims to attract young urban elites with its modern design and high-tech features. JAECOO J7:The JAECOO J7 is an A-class SUV with sophisticated off-road capabilities. It features a 1.6TGDI engine, 14.8-inch large screen, and 7 driving modes for various terrains. The J7 targets urban new elites who desire both style and off-road performance. JAECOO J8:The JAECOO J8 is a B-class. It offers all-road capability with torque vectoring four-wheel drive and CDC active suspension. The J8 emphasizes modernist luxury design and spacious comfort, aiming to appeal to the ‘New Urban Pillar’ demographic. Silver Lake Motors is committed to ensuring customer satisfaction beyond purchasing OMODA & JAECOO vehicles. The company boasts a comprehensive network of service centers staffed by skilled technicians well-versed in the latest automotive technologies ensuring that OMODA & JAECOO owners in Qatar receive top-notch support, including maintenance, repairs, and access to charging infrastructure. To commemorate OMODA & JAECOO’s debut in Qatar, Silver Lake Motors will host customer events and test-drive opportunities to raise brand awareness and offer local customers eco-focused vehicles throughout the local market.