CAR NEWS

Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato makes its EMEA unveiling – Automobili Lamborghini presents the Huracán Sterrato[1] to VIP guests and media from Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), at its floating Lounge created in Doha. The Huracán Sterrato was formally presented by the Lamborghini executive management team, headed by Chairman and CEO Stephan Winkelmann. Joined by Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Federico Foschini, behind-the scenes workshops with Chief Technical Officer Rouven Mohr and Head of Design Mitja Borkert provided comprehensive insights into the design and engineering evolution of Sterrato.

“The Huracán Sterrato is the culmination of a development project that is entirely symbolic of Lamborghini’s philosophy: pushing expectations and possibilities to produce something unexpected but immediately recognizable as a Lamborghini. Following the car’s official unveiling in Miami, its presentation in Doha has enabled us to share the inspiration and evolution of this fun, all-terrain super sports Lamborghini with our EMEA clients, where the production Huracán Sterrato has received an equally enthusiastic reception.”

 – Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO, Lamborghini

Initially conceived in 2017, a two-year development period saw the Sterrato concept presented in 2019, with the 1499-unit production automobile announced just one week ago on the occasion of the Art Basel Miami Beach, for delivery in 2023 and 2024. While the world premiere in the United States had featured two different liveries in Verde Gea and Bianco Phanes, the Sterrato displayed on the terrace of the Doha lounge was dressed in Bianco Isi with the Italian flag livery, showcasing the Italian pride and heritage of the super sports automobile manufacturer from Sant’Agata Bolognese.

The Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato comes with a 5.2-liter V10 engine with maximum power output of 610 hp and 560 Nm of torque (at 6500 rpm), combined with 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and electronically controlled all-wheel drive with back mechanical self-locking differential. The exterior expresses the adventurous spirit of the Sterrato right from the first glance. The increased ground clearance by 44 mm ensures greater suspension travel, the front (+30 mm) and rear (+34 mm) tracks are wider.

In addition to protecting the Sterrato’s body, the aluminum front underbody protection, the reinforced sills, the rear diffuser and the sturdy wheel arches all emphasize its muscularity. The classic air intake located on the rear hood not only enhances the sporting spirit of the model, but also helps supply the engine with clean air when driving on dusty tracks. 

Clienteles joining Lamborghini in its pop-up Lounge floating on a pontoon in Doha Bay, were also able to consult Lamborghini’s Ad Personam specialists to configure their new Sterrato, selecting from more than 350 exterior paints and finishes, 60 internal leathers and a host of other finishes and options for virtually unlimited personalization potential.

New Lamborghini products including Urus Performante[1], Urus S[2], Huracán Tecnica[3] and Huracán STO[4] were also accessible for test drives, while the VIPs and journalists present enjoyed the Lounge’s hospitality overlooking the Doha coastline. Invited VIP guests and Lamborghini owners visiting the area can experience the world of Lamborghini from 21 November to 18 December. 

[1] The vehicle is not yet offered for sale and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC. The fuel consumption and emissions data are in the type of approval stage. 

[2] Fuel consumption and emission values of Urus Performante; Fuel consumption combined: 14,1 l/100km (WLTP); CO2-emissions combined: 320 g/km (WLTP)

[3] Fuel consumption and emission values of Urus S; Fuel consumption combined: 14,1 l/100km (WLTP); CO2-emissions combined: 320 g/km (WLTP)

[4] Fuel consumption and emission values of Huracán Tecnica; Fuel consumption combined: 14,5 l/100km (WLTP); CO2-emissions combined: 328 g/km (WLTP)

[5] Fuel consumption and emission values of Huracán STO; Fuel consumption combined: 13.9 l/100km (WLTP); CO2-emissions combined: 331 g/km (WLTP)

Lamborghini Squadra Corse announces Romain Grosjean as official Factory Driver with Iron Lynx Team – Lamborghini Squadra Corse is delighted to announce the arrival of Romain Grosjean as an official Lamborghini Factory Driver from 2023. The experienced former Formula 1 driver will also be a key cog in the development of the Lamborghini LMDh project, which will unveil in 2024.

The Swiss French driver, who has spent the last two seasons racing in the IndyCar Series, will make his factory unveiling at the 24 Hours of Daytona aboard a Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2, run by Iron Lynx, alongside fellow Lamborghini Factory Drivers Andrea Caldarelli and Mirko Bortolotti. Grosjean will also contest further endurance events throughout the 2023 season, with a full programme to be announced in due course.

In addition to his GT3 programme next year, Grosjean will also join Caldarelli and Bortolotti as a test driver for Lamborghini Iron Lynx’s LMDh car, with which it will compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship in 2024.

Romain Grosjean History

Born in Geneva but competing under a French licence, Grosjean spent nine seasons in Formula One and recorded 10 podiums. He raced for Renault, Lotus and Haas before switching to the IndyCar Series in the US in 2021. A versatile driver, Grosjean has a number of junior single seater titles to his name over the years, winning the Formula 3 Euroseries in 2007, AutoGP in 2010 and the GP2 Series in 2011. He has equally raced in GTs and took a race win on his FIA GT1 World Championship debut in Abu Dhabi in 2010 as well as contesting the Spa 24 Hours the same year.

Iron Lynx, which is owned by the Swiss company DC Racing Solutions Ltd, will be the partner Lamborghini team in the FIA World Endurance Championship and IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship. Iron Lynx and Lamborghini will also work in close collaboration with PREMA Engineering, which will utilize its 30-year championship-winning expertise.

Speaking about the latest step in his career, Grosjean said:-

“First of all, it’s an honour to be joining Lamborghini, it’s such an iconic brand for everyone who loves cars, including myself and my kids. On top of that, I am very excited about two things: the first is starting in Daytona with the GT3 which has been very successful in Daytona and a really good team like Iron Lynx and team-mates around me, so that is going to be a nice discovery for myself. And then, later in the year developing the new LMDh which is a beautiful car – I’m lucky to have seen it – and an incredible project in endurance. It’s becoming a very exciting category with all the constructors coming. With Lamborghini being such a successful brand, I hope we can do well in the future.” 

Lamborghini Head of Motorsport Giorgio Sanna added:-

“We are very proud to welcome Romain Grosjean to the Lamborghini family, for this new and exciting period in the history of Squadra Corse. He’s a driver with a huge amount of experience in various categories over the years and will be able to add a great deal of value to both our GT3 programme but more importantly, the development of our LMDh car as well. I am looking forward to seeing Romain out on track in Daytona which will hopefully be the start of a very successful partnership going forward.” 

Nissan launches the all-new 2023 Serena in Japan – Nissan launched the fully-revamped Serena in Japan today with sales of gasoline-powered models starting this winter, and Serena e-POWER models are to start in spring.

Since it’s unveiling in 1991, the Serena has always been in close touch with the changing forms and need of families. With the notion from the beginning being “Big, Easy, Fun”, the all-new 2023 Serena is armed with spacious seating, convenient utilities and the latest in cutting-edge technologies.

“We have planned and developed the new Serena so that the whole family can spend their precious time together, having great fun,”

Nissan Executive Vice President Asako Hoshino.

Advanced technologies

• The Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now armed with an all-new, specially developed 1.4 L engine. The system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
• ProPILOT 2.0^*1 advanced driver assistance system comes on the highest e-POWER grade, the Luxion—the first time^*2 such a system that enables hands-off driving (in a single lane on a highway at speeds of 40 km/h or above) has been adopted in a minivan^*3 in Japan. For all other grades, ProPILOT has now been made standard. This driver assistance technology helps reduce driver fatigue on long road trips.
• The Luxion is armed with ProPILOT Park with memory, which records and recognizes parking space lines, marking the first time this technology has been adopted on a Nissan vehicle. The Luxion also has ProPILOT Remote Park.
• Steering assist with forward collision avoidance supports steering when avoiding obstacles in front of the vehicle. This technology is also a Nissan first.

Second-generation e-POWER creates a quiet cabin, making conversation easier

• The Serena features the second-generation e-POWER system, now fortified with an all-new, specially developed 1.4 L engine. The system delivers more powerful and smooth acceleration with less engine noise.
• The Serena is also fortified with world-first, energy management technology^*4 that controls when the engine turns on and off in accordance with vehicle speed, traffic conditions and the navigation system. Reduced engine operation contributes to a quieter cabin.
• Enhanced insulation further contributes to a quieter cabin, resulting in an easy conversation space, even for rear-seat passengers.

Science-based approach to reducing motion-sickness

Various design and packaging approaches have been taken with the aim of reducing motion-sickness. These include:

• A wide, open view from inside the vehicle and an optimal display monitor positioning
• All-new seat design that dampens occupant movement
• A highly rigid steering wheel enhances handling stability
• A vehicle structure that deflects crosswinds and reduces shakiness at high speeds
• The second-generation e-POWER system and tighter suspension enable smoother vehicle body movement
• e-Pedal Step, which allows the driver to control vehicle speed by just using the accelerator

A friendly design with premium quality and sense of innovation

• A modern touch has been added to the exterior design. For Luxion and Highway Star grades, the exterior design is finished to evoke the dynamic and powerful performance of the vehicle. All lamps are now LED.
• Close attention has been given to interior:
  ・The windshield is the widest in the minivan category in the market^*3.
  ・As a first for Nissan, the all-new Serena features a switch-type shift for smart looks and ease-of-use.
  ・The seat material is water-repellent, a family friendly feature.
• 14 body colors are available, including four two-tone combinations.

Convenient family features

The most spacious cabin in the minivan category^*3 enables all on board to stretch out and relax.

• 120 mm of addional driver legroom compared to the previous generation.
• A multi-purpose center seat in the second row allows the vehicle to carry seven or eight passengers^*5.
• The dual rear door allows easy loading and unloading, even in small parking spaces. When needed, just the small back door at the top can be used. The side passenger door comes with the hands-free, auto-open function.
• Pockets for smartphones and wallets are now now in easy reach for every seat. Other useful features include: Holders that can accommodate a 500 ml cardoard carton, USB ports, onboard Wi-Fi, and a pre-cooling air conditioning system^*6.
• Air conditioning can be controlled by a simple, intuitive and innovatively designed touch panel, with independent controls for the driver’s seat, passenger seat and rear seats.
• An optional 100V AC power source (1500 W) is available for e-POWER models, which can be used to operate electric appliances when outdoor or as a power source, especially helpful in emergencies.

Japan nationwide recommended retail price (including consumption tax)

*1 Subscription to the NissanConnect ProPILOT plan is required

*2 Nissan survey; as of November 2022

*3 Nissan survey; as of November 2022. Minivan definition used: 1.2 – 2.0 L class 7/8-seat vehicle with overall height over 1.8 m

*4 Nissan survey; as of November 2022. The technology controls battery charge and discharge to maintain electric-only driving (no engine operation) near the destination, by using information from the navigation system

*5 The e-POWER Luxion is a 7-seater

*6 Onboard Wi-Fi and air conditioning pre-cooling need NissanConnect services subscription.

Note: Features may be available only for certain grades or factory-installed options.

The all-new 2023 Honda Pilot, the largest and most authoritative SUV in Honda history, will go on-sale Dec. 12. Offering a class-leading blend of off-road capability and nimble on-road dynamics, the fourth-generation Pilot is the ultimate family SUV with rugged new styling, and more passenger and cargo space.

Pilot’s five well-equipped trim levels include the new Pilot TrailSport, the most rugged and off-road capable Honda SUV ever, with special off-road features engineered to get weekend adventurers even further off the beaten path.

Pilot’s Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) begins with the Pilot Sport at $39,150¹ (excluding $1,295 destination charge).

“We’ve reengineered the all-new Honda Pilot from the ground up to set a new benchmark in the midsize 3-row SUV class. With more space, power and capability, the new Pilot is more rugged than ever and ready for that next great family adventure.”

Lance Woelfer, assistant vice president, Honda National Auto Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Exceptionally Well-Equipped

Designed and developed in the United States of America, the 2023 Pilot lineup starts with the very well-equipped Sport, which comes with Honda’s all-new 3.5-liter V6 that debuts on Pilot, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that has been tuned exclusively for Pilot. The mixture is smooth and responsive, with 285 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm (both SAE net). A new standard Hill Descent Control system enhances Pilot’s off-road capability.

A new easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen audio system is standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, physical volume and tuning knobs and a simplified menu structure. Partial digital instrumentation, tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, LED headlights and Shark Gray 7-spoke 20-inch wheels are also standard.

Pilot EX-L builds on the Sport’s equipment with leather seats and a standard 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a simplified menu structure. Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging, an upgraded 9-speaker audio system and a power tailgate are all standard. EX-L also adds exterior flash with chrome trim and grille bar and machined 5-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels.

The new Pilot TrailSport conveys even more off-road capability to the Pilot lineup. Exclusive rugged hardware consist of an off-road tuned suspension with an additional inch of ground clearance, robust steel skid plates to better protect the underbody from damage on the trail and expanded all-wheel drive capabilities.

Pilot TrailSport is also the first Honda SUV with all-terrain tires for improved off-road traction. TrailSport’s unique 18-inch wheels have a rugged look and are carefully designed to reduce the likelihood of trail damage.

A new TrailWatch camera system (also standard on Elite) uses four exterior cameras and four camera views to help drivers navigate off-road obstacles.

Exclusive to TrailSport, a new available Diffused Sky Blue paint color highlights its rugged design and adventurous spirit. In the cabin, TrailSport stands out with rugged details including exclusive orange contrast stitching, all-season floor mats with TrailSport logos, and head restraints embroidered with the TrailSport logo. A sliding panoramic sunroof is also standard.

For a higher level of versatility,Pilot Touring adds on-demand 8-occupant flexibility (also standard on Elite). In the second row, a first-in-class multi-function removable middle seat can be conveniently stored underneath the rear cargo floor instead of being left at home in the garage. Families then have the seat available if they need it later in their journey, providing owners three distinct seating options on demand. Pilot is the only truck in its class with 8-occupant seating and an opening panoramic sunroof.

A 12-speaker Bose premium audio system custom-engineered for the new interior delivers a concert-quality listening experience. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability are also standard.

Pilot Elite tops the lineup with standard all-wheel drive, and additional interior features and functions including perforated leather seat inserts, ventilated front seats, a configurable 10.2-inch digital instrument display, a color head-up display, and a multi-view camera system with a 360-degree view.

Touring and Elite also receive premium exterior finishes, including a gloss black grille mesh and B-pillar, dual chrome exhaust garnish and distinct 7-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels with a machined-finish.

Stronger, Safer and More Capable

Every 2023 Pilot benefits from extensive improvements to the body, chassis and powertrain, safety technology, and overall driving refinement. A sportier and more engaging driving experience was created through an all-new chassis and Pilot’s stiffest body structure ever. The extremely rigid platform was engineered with TrailSport’s true off-road capabilities in mind from the beginning, which also benefits the ride, handling and overall refinement of the entire Pilot lineup.

Pilot also introduces the second generation of Honda’s award-winning torque vectoring i-VTM4™ all-wheel drive system, which is available on all grades and standard on TrailSport and Elite. The new and more capable i-VTM4 system features a stronger rear differential that can handle 40% more torque and provides 30% faster response, optimizing traction in all driving scenarios, especially slick conditions and off-road.

Five standard selectable drive modes optimize the driving experience for various conditions: Normal, Econ, Snow, plus new Sport and Tow modes. EX-L models and above (with all-wheel drive) also feature a Sand mode and a new Trail mode which optimize Pilot’s off-road capabilities.

In addition, all 2023 Pilots come standard with an expanded Honda Sensing® suite of driver-assistive technologies that includes Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS) have been updated to feature more natural responses. A rear seat reminder and rear seatbelt reminder are also new and standard across the lineup.

Special Option Packages

Available for the first time on Pilot, a new HPD Package takes Pilot’s rugged new styling even further. Developed in collaboration with Honda Performance Development (HPD), Honda’s U.S.-based racing company, the HPD Package adds fender flares, aggressive bronze- or black-colored wheels and special HPD graphics ($2,950). Available on all Pilot trims, it’s one of several new post-production option packages that include Protection ($290), Function ($405) and Tow ($305 – $990).

Additional details on the all-new 2023 Honda Pilot are available here on Hondanews.com.

Pilot Manufacturing

The new fourth-generation Pilot and Pilot TrailSport will continue to be built in America*, exclusively at the Honda Alabama Auto Plant in Lincoln, Alabama, continuing the 40-year legacy of Honda’s commitment to build products close to the customer. Since 2006, Honda has produced more than 2 million Pilots in the U.S. 
* using domestic and globally-sourced parts

REVEALED – NEW RANGE ROVER SPORT WITH EPIC SPILLWAY CLIMB; – The New Range Rover Sport made its global debut with a dramatic world-first climb up a flooded 193m dam spillway in Iceland.

The epic ascent saw the New Range Rover Sport repel the surging torrent of water flowing down the ramp of the Karahnjukar Dam in Iceland;  the biggest of its kind in the world at a rate of 750 tonnes per minute. A loss of traction risked plunging down the perilous 90m drop at the base of the spillway to the valley floor below.

The third generation of Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV is the most wanted, technologically advanced and capable yet, mixing a commanding road presence with instinctive driving responses using the most advanced combination of chassis technologies ever fitted to a Land Rover.

The prosperous spillway ascent was screened for the first time at a special debut event at Jaguar Land Rover’s Advanced Product Creation Centre in Gaydon, United Kingdom. Certified James Bond stunt driver Jessica Hawkins was behind the steering wheel as the New Range Rover Sport demonstrated its grip, traction, performance and composure, completing the latest in a series of challenges for Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV. Previous achievements include a record-setting hill-climb at Pikes Peak, a first recorded crossing of the ‘Empty Quarter’ desert in the Arabian Peninsula and a first ascent of the 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate in China, in 2018.

Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover, said:-

“Land Rover’s pioneering MLA-Flex architecture and the latest chassis systems come together to deliver the highest levels of dynamism we’ve ever seen on Range Rover Sport. Integrated Chassis Control governs the comprehensive suite of innovations, co-ordinating everything from the latest switchable-volume air suspension system to our Dynamic Response Pro electronic active roll control. The result is the most engaging and thrilling Range Rover Sport ever.”

– Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle Programmes, Jaguar Land Rover

The spillway climb was the final obstacle on the drive from the valley floor to the summit of the dam, taking in a flooded riverbed, long steep tunnels and the 40-degree rocky dam wall itself. The 294m stretch of spillway had water furiously cascading down its 90-metre drop, to provide the ultimate test of traction and driver confidence.

Jessica Hawkins, Stunt Driver, said:-

“The power of the water surging down the spillway was breath-taking from the side of the valley. Driving into it knowing that a 90-metre drop was waiting behind me at the bottom of the slope, if things went wrong, made this the most challenging drive I’ve ever undertaken. Despite the steep slope and rushing water, New Range Rover Sport made it look easy. Its traction, composure and commanding visibility inspired so much confidence I was able to enjoy the whole experience.”  

– Jessica Hawkins, Stunt Driver

New Range Rover Sport is based on Land Rover’s advanced, flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA-Flex), which offers the perfect foundations for its superior dynamics and peerless refinement. Its line-up of powerful and efficient powertrains includes two six-cylinder extended range Electric Hybrid plug-ins, which offer a pure-electric driving range of up to 113km (70 miles) and CO₂ emissions as low as 18g/km¹.

The new 530PS V8 Twin Turbo delivers sports vehicle performance, with 0-100km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds (0-60mph in 4.3 seconds) with Dynamic Launch engaged. Patrons can also choose from powerful and efficient mild hybrid petrol and diesel Ingenium engines, while pure-electric propulsion will be available in 2024, as Land Rover carry on its electrification journey.

Assertive modern design

Dramatic proportions accentuate the Range Rover Sport’s emotive design with taut surfacing, a dynamic stance and instantly recognizable profile, perfectly accentuated by its muscular proportions – giving the impression the vehicle is poised and ready.

Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Range Rover, said: –

“Our latest Range Rover Sport embraces fully our modernist approach of vehicle design whilst amplifying its unquestionable sporting and confident character”

– Prof Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, Range Rover

New Range Rover Sport’s reductive design spreads to its all-new interior. Containing a new cockpit-like interpretation of the trademark Range Rover Command Driving Position, the latest convenience and driver assistance technologies and finest materials combine to ensure every drive is an experience to savour. 

Engaging on every journey

A comprehensive dynamic toolkit combines for the most engaging and dynamically capable driving experience, based around the inherent strength of the flexible mixed-metal MLA body architecture. A suite of technologies administered by Land Rover’s Integrated Chassis Control system work in harmony to provide instinctive responses and agility.

A new Stormer Handling Pack provides the ultimate combination of chassis technologies for the most dynamic and agile handling and includes Dynamic Response Pro, All-Wheel Steering, an Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking, and Configurable Programmes.

Dynamic Response Pro is a 48-volt electronic active roll control system, capable of applying up to 1,400Nm of torque across each axle, for a confidence-inspiring driving experience and new levels of body control and cornering composure, while All-Wheel Steering helps achieve unrivalled agility and maneuverability at low speeds, with superior stability at high speeds.

Dynamic Air Suspension introduces switchable-volume air springs for the first time and is fitted to every New Range Rover Sport. The intelligent system enhances the bandwidth of the suspension by varying the pressure within the airbags to deliver traditional Range Rover comfort with the dynamic handling expected from the Range Rover Sport. To optimize responses, the automobile monitors the road ahead using eHorizon navigation data to pre-emptively prime the vehicle for upcoming bends.

Epitome of sporting luxury

New Range Rover Sport makes every journey an event and can be honed to be as dynamically engaging as the driver desires, while also offering enhanced levels of refinement and comfort. This ability to combine dual features is made possible by a comprehensive set of technologies.

The advanced Cabin Air Purification Pro system produces and upholds the optimum interior environment for wellbeing and alertness, while a selection of powerful Meridian audio options is available. The Meridian Signature Sound System is the most advanced and powerful audio system ever fitted to a Range Rover Sport, with up to 29 speakers plus four headrest speakers to create personal sound zones for the four main cabin occupants. Next-generation Active Noise Cancellationplays its part here, reducing the number of external sounds entering the cabin for ultimate cabin refinement.

Seamless technology

Land Rover’s powerful Electrical Vehicle Architecture (EVA 2.0) supports an ecosystem of seamless connected technologies, including Software Over T he  Air (SOTA). The clever technology provides remote updates for 63 electronic modules, ensuring New Range Rover Sport remains at the cutting edge of innovation, modern technology and services throughout its life.

The award-winning Pivi Pro infotainment features a high resolution floating 13.1-inch haptic touchscreen positioned at the center of the modernist dashboard. Controlling everything from navigation to media and vehicle settings, it learns the user’s habits and intelligently personalizes the onboard experience, becoming a truly intuitive personal assistant.

Amazon Alexa brings a new level of convenience, providing the ability to control various settings and features using natural voice commands while reducing the potential for distraction. Alexa is embedded in Pivi Pro and the clever voice AI even integrates the use of Alexa devices in the home via the Land Rover smartphone app and Remote Skills.

Peerless capability

New Range Rover Sport is the most dynamically capable version of Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV and the most competent away from paved roads, using the latest Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iAWD) and integrating Land Rover’s latest all-terrain innovations and technologies to ensure its breadth of dynamic capability.

Adaptive Off-Road Cruise Control makes its debut on New Range Rover Sport and helps drivers navigate tricky terrain by maintaining steady progress according to the ground conditions. Drivers can select one of four comfort settings and the system intelligently adjusts the speed, allowing the driver to focus on steering the vehicle. 

New Range Rover Sport will be exclusively produced at the Solihull Manufacturing Facility in the UK, the historic home of Range Rover production, alongside New Range Rover.

President of Ghana commissions a US$ 9-million Nissan’s state-of-the art Navara assembly plant at Tema – The president of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, officially commissioned the brand-new state of the art Nissan Navara assembly plant in Tema in the Greater Accra Region.

The Nissan Navara assembly plant is the highest of a journey that started in 2018 when Nissan became the first mover in Ghana to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Ghanaian government to work towards creating the Ghana Automotive Development Policy.

Nissan designated Japan Motors, one of its two long standing distributors in Ghana, as its certified assembler in 2020. Work on the 5000 sq.m plant began shortly afterwards and today, 17 months later, the plant was officially opened by president Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo as the first Nissan Navaras began rolling off the assembly lines.

Speaking at the Nissan Assembly Plant’s opening, President Nana Akufo-Addo stated that the importation of motor and transport vehicles constitutes the leading import into Ghana, estimated at $1.5 billion annually. He noted the emergence Covid-19, has emphasized the need for Ghana to be self-reliant and produce domestically.

“Today marks yet another important mile stone I our quest to make Ghana a new manufacturing hub for Africa, in particular, realise our vision of becoming a leading player in the automobile industry in Africa. I’m delighted that in the automobile sector, we have attracted investment from a number of global iconic brands,”

– President Nana Akufo-Addo

He said the presence of the facility comes to support the industrial transformation agenda to diversify the economy.

Nana Akufo-Addo noted Ghana government identifies that the establishment of assembly plant alone does not create the significance deployment opportunities expected from the automotive industry.

In this regard, he added –

“The elaboration of a comprehensive complement and supply development program by the Trade Ministry to support local production of component and parts for the automobile industry.”

– President Nana Akufo-Addo

The President further added that the component manufacturing policy that will provide targeted incentive to attract various investors to manufacture domestically components and parts is being developed.

“The rolling out of this policy will lead to harnessing the capacity of local value chained actors particularly technicians, operating in the Suame Magazine, Abosey kai and others across the country to play critical role in component manufacturing and supply development program”

– President Nana Akufo-Addo

President Akufo-Addo further indicated that three other vehicle manufacturers, namely Hyundai, KIA and Renault will embark commercial production this year.

Present at the opening was Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen, who said the facility, will create the needed jobs for Ghanaians and that the growth of the automobile industry will also attract foreign direct investment.

“We believe that this is just not going to bring investment in the auto industry into our country but will bring other investments,”

– Minister for Trade and Industry, Alan Kyerematen

The new state-of-the-art Nissan assembly plant has the capacity to assemble 5,000 new automobiles annually and will also produce Peugeot vehicles.

Nissan Africa managing director, Mike Whitfield, said it was an incredible joyous and emotional experience.

“Less than eight months ago, the Nissan plant in Rosslyn South Africa passed its final test to be given the green light to start manufacturing the all new “built of more’ Nissan Navara. Right at that time, a key group from this plant graduated in the same plant, having received extensive and intensive training on the assembling of these vehicles. Just over a month ago, this brand-new assembly plant passed its own final test – the very same one that the Rosslyn plant had to pass because in the world of Nissan there is only one standard – it is Nissan’s. I can tell you all, without any fear of contradiction, that this is the most modern, most state-of the art plant anywhere in West Africa.”

– Nissan Africa Managing Director, Mike Whitfield

The plant, he said, was proof of the fantastic public private partnership between the government of Ghana, Japan Motors and Nissan Africa.

“The existence of this plant is tribute to the passion and commitment of Japan Motors investing US$ 9-million, which in itself would not have been possible without the security and certainty offered by the government of Ghana’s progressive automotive industry development policy which was signed into law in record time. Ghana today stands as a benchmark for the African automotive industry, an example of what can be done when there is a will and a vision.”

– Japan Motors MD, Salem Kalmoni

Japan Motors MD, Salem Kalmoni, whose grandfather began what would become Japan Motors 100 years ago, said the US $9-million investment was proof of his family’s commitment to the country and the government, creating jobs and opportunities in the country.

“To borrow from the Minister of Trade and Industry Alan Kyerematen; we have indeed “put our skin into it’.”

Kalmoni said he hoped that the government would now fully implement the Ghana Automotive Development Policy, after having identified vehicle assembly and automotive component manufacturing as a strategic anchor industry for its Ten Point Plan for Ghana’s industrial development.

Whitfield paid tribute too to Nissan’s other distributor in Ghana, APL Nissan;-

“I am grateful too today for our continued friendship and association with Subhi Accad and his company APL Nissan Ghana, who together with Japan Motors are Nissan’s two sole distributors in Ghana. I have no doubt that together these two companies will put Nissan right back up as the top selling automotive brand in Ghana once more.”

– Nissan Africa Managing Director, Mike Whitfield

Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle Launched in Ghana; assembling of Peugeot vehicles in Ghana to begin in March 2022

Disclosing at the unveiling of the all new Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up automobile at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra, Chief Executive of Silver Star Auto, Asad Nazir, labelled the launch as a historic milestone for partners to deepen their strategic proposition to a quality automobile industry in Ghana.

Stelantis Group will assemble both cars by Silver Star within six months from today (March 2022). We believe the environment for automobile industry is an enormous opportunity for us to expand and provide the best for the Ghanaian and West African market.

-Asad Nazir, Chief Executive Officer, Silver Star Auto

Speaking at the Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up launch, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi enlightened that Ghana governments automotive development programme will give equipment manufacturers access to regional and continental trade opportunities.

To provide opportunities for higher value addition and highly skilled employment, the Ministry of Trade and Industry has developed a comprehensive package of incentives and policy measures to support the establishment of an automotive assembly and component manufacturing industry, as a strategic anchor of industrialization and a new pillar of growth in Ghana.

Michael Okyere Baafi, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry

Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 vehicle

The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK marks the revitalization of the PEUGEOT Pick-up and includes all the brands best strengths.

This new Pick-up truck finalizes a range of commercial automobiles from the PEUGEOT brand, which has been famous for its robustness and its adaptation to customer usages across the African continent for nearly a century.

It enables Peugeot to make a tough comeback on the African market where the brand has a very strong heritage powered by its numerous racing victories, and it personifies the DNA of legendary models such as the 404 wagon and the 504 Pick-up truck.

The new Peugeot Landtrek 4×4 has 1.9L (150HP) Engine, 4×4 Hill Descent Control Radio, Disclaimer MP3, Bluetooth, USB with 4 speakers Heavy Duty Eliptic Leaf Spring rear Suspension.

The Peugeot brand is becoming progressively more global with the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK, which is entering the One Ton Pick-up segment with the goal of becoming a new reference in a market that represents around 300,000 annual sales units in the Middle East Africa region.

The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK is available in three body styles: double and single cab as well as a chassis cab suitable for different conversions.

It has the most accommodating body in its classification and an adaptability that is unique in the segment. It offers faultless crossing performance and meets both professional and family needs, with a payload that can exceed one tonne and a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons.

When designing the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK, particular attention was paid to reliability, robustness and ease of repair, which are among the main prospects of commercial vehicle customers.

The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK automobile will be obtainable in more than 180 PEUGEOT sales outlets throughout the region, with highly trained sales staff and technicians.

As for spare parts, they will be accessible at a competitive price with a service rate of over 90% thanks to the Brands partner networks.

The new PEUGEOT LANDTREK includes all the essential elements of the segment, and makes it possible to fulfill all the expectations and cover the wide variety of the markets on the African continent, thanks to the breadth of its range.

It is available in three silhouettes (Single Cab, Double Cab and Chassis Cab), in Petrol and Diesel, with manual or automatic gearboxes, and has fantastic crossing capacities with two or four wheel drive transmissions.

The PEUGEOT LANDTREK offers up to three tons of towing capacity and a payload that exceeds 1t and can even reach 1.2t on some versions and has the most accommodating cargo bed in the segment!

In terms of comfort, the new PEUGEOT LANDTREK comes with state-of-the-art on-board technology, advanced adaptability and SUV-like driving pleasure.

Joseph Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, a former Member of Parliament for Tema East and a former Deputy Minister of Transport, being the first Ghanaian to purchase the new Peugeot Landtrek Double Cabin 4×4 Pick-up Vehicle.

I feel very special, Titus Glover expressed. We tried the first brand, we work in the mines and so far, so good. And I think this is going to give us more luxury. 25 years of my life, Ive been driving Peugeot and they are efficient.

– Joseph Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, former Member of Parliament for Tema East & former Deputy Minister of Transport