SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTSUNDAY 10 JUNE 2018

Maserati, the world-renowned manufacturer of luxury automobiles, is a name synonymous with sophistication, racing performance and attention to detail. As official dealers of the Italian marquee in Qatar, Alfardan Sports

Motors brings the unparalleled brand experience to clients in the country through an array of services and amenities.

For the month of Ramadan, Alfardan Sports Motors is com-mitted to rewarding its clients in line with the season’s spirit of giving. In an unprecedented move, the dealership has announced coverage of installments for a period of 6 months ensuring peace of mind and real value that comes with the ownership experience.

As part of the offer, clients are entitled to a one-year full com-prehensive insurance scheme in addition to a 3-year full warranty and service package up to 60,000 km. The package covers all genuine Maserati components and consumables, including air, pollen and oil filters, as well as their replacement and technical inspections.

Maserati’s superior craftsmanship is matched by its premium accessories, allowing clients to drive in world-class comfort and style. For the Holy Month, the clients can enjoy a range of mer-chandise by redeeming exclusive gift vouchers. In addition, they can also avail services such as glass tinting that perfectly enhances the vehicle’s sporty aesthetics.

Commenting on the Ramadan offer, Charly Dagher, General

Manager of Maserati Qatar, Alfardan Sports Motors, said: “The month of Ramadan is a special time for us to reflect upon our values as a company and make a difference. Every year, we take this opportunity to give back to our clients, by offering them a range of benefits and services. We are driven by a simple goal of ele-vating the Maserati experience, in line with our culture of service excellence.”

The exclusive offer is valid until the end of Ramadan and includes the full range of Maserati – from the stylish coupe Gran-Turismo models to the sports executive sedan – Ghibli, the latest generation of Maserati’s flagship sedan – Quattroporte and its first-ever SUV, the Levante.

Alfardan Sports Motors unveils exclusive Maserati Ramadan offer

ACTING MANAGING EDITORMohammed Salim Mohamed

CHAIRMAN Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFDr. Khalid Mubarak Al-Shafi

SUPPLEMENT COORDINATORMuhammad Shammas

ADVERTISING MANAGERAli Wahba

SUPPLEMENT EDITORPramod Prabhakaran

DESIGNAbraham Augusthy

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 20182

Injected with an unmatched 707 horsepower courtesy of an awe-inspiring supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine, the most awarded SUV ever and the most capable full-

size SUV on the planet has been trans-formed into the most powerful and quickest SUV ever - the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.

The new benchmark engine com-bines with an upgraded high-torque capacity TorqueFlite eight-speed auto-matic transmission, world-class on-road driving dynamics and new Brembo brakes - the largest standard front brakes ever offered on a Jeep vehicle - to deliver a new level of performance: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds), quarter mile (400 metres) in 11.6 seconds at 116 mph (187 km/h), top speed of 180 mph (289 km/h), 60-0 mph braking distance in 114 feet (100-0 km/h in 37 metres) and .88 g capability on the skid pad. It’s also capable of towing 2,949 kgs.

“We are so excited to introduce the New Grand Cherokee Trackhawk to the Qatar Market” said Gurdeep Singh Multani, General Manager of United Cars Almana.

“Our Customers are great fans for muscle cars and powerful engines. Our experience with SRT range and Hellcat has proven significant success in the market and the feedback from cus-tomers was outstanding. We introduced Grand Cherokee Trackhawk to com-plement the range of Hellcat and deliver to our customers the fastest SUV ever in the best price possible” he added.

Performance is bolstered by various upgraded driveline components

engineered to handle the additional torque output from the supercharged engine. The standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission delivers improved shift response, quality and consistent performance and drivability. The transmission software takes into account variables such as engine torque gradients, kick-down events, longitu-dinal and lateral acceleration, grade changes, friction detection and down-shift detection to determine the appro-priate shift map.

The Trackhawk’s Selec-Track system uses performance-tuned software to pre-configure and distin-guish five dynamic modes, including: Auto, Sport, Track, Snow and Tow, ena-bling drivers to choose a vehicle setting that ideally meets their requirements and ambient conditions.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk rides one inch (25.4 mm) lower than non-SRT Grand Cherokee models and is further set apart with

body-coloured wheel flares, side sill cladding and a sculpted hood with dual heat extractors.

The signature seven-slot upper front grille is flanked by adaptive, bi-xenon headlamps and surrounded by an LED character lamp treatment.

From behind, Trackhawk features a unique Gloss Black rear valence and 4-inch (101.6 mm) Black Chrome quad exhaust tips. The new quad exhaust system design provides an exhilarating and unmistakable note during maximum acceleration.

Available in nine exterior colours: Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Diamond Black, Ivory Tri-coat, Bright White, Velvet Red, Rhino (exclusive), Redline 2 (exclusive) and True Blue, the driver-focused interior features premium soft-touch materials, unique Light Black Chrome finishes and carbon fibre spears, and a 7-inch (177.8 mm) driver infor-mation display (DID) instrument cluster, which features the tachometer in the middle. The 320 km/h speedometer is on the left side of the cluster.

Additional premium interior features

include: standard Active Noise Cancel-lation; premium headliner; leather stitched instrument panel, doors, centre console and armrest; Berber floormats with Trackhawk badge and available dual-screen rear-seat entertainment centre with Blu-ray. There is a choice of two audio systems, including an 825-watt Harman Kardon high-performance audio system with 19 speakers and two subwoofers.

Trackhawk is equipped with more than 65 safety and security features.

Visit United Cars Almana to book the New Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.

Powerful and quick2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

“We introduced Grand Cherokee Trackhawk to complement the range of Hellcat and deliver to our customers the fastest SUV ever in the best price pos-sible.”

Gurdeep Singh Multani,

General Manager of United Cars Almana

JIM EFSTATHIOU JR / BLOOMBERG

A Canadian startup is testing a system that sucks Carbon dioxide from the air and converts it into fuel for Cars and other vehicles.

Carbon Engineering Ltd.’s technique com-bines several common manufacturing processes and will eventually be able to produce fuel for about $4 a gallon, according to David Keith, a Harvard University professor and co-founder of the company.

With oil prices climbing and US petrol fol-lowing suit, that’s a level that could make this alternative fuel competitive. Many companies have developed ways to make fuel from plants, trees, sugarcane waste and other substances instead of petroleum, but the challenge has always been the cost. Carbon Engineering’s technique was developed specifically to address this.

“This isn’t some new clever piece of science or weird chemical we synthesized in some fancy lab,” Keith said in an interview. “The key thing that the company’s done from the beginning is focus on doing this in a way that is industrially scalable.” The “direct air capture” process starts with common industrial cooling systems and a solution that draws Carbon from the air, according to a paper published Thursday in the journal Joule. The Carbon is combined with hydrogen to make motor fuel, through a tech-nique used at pulp mills. The most expensive

part is the electricity used to extract hydrogen from water.

Pilot PlantWhile Carbon Engineering’s $4 price point

is about 40 percent higher than fossil fuels, it may be competitive in markets like California that require cleaner low-Carbon fuels, Keith said. The company has been sucking Carbon dioxide from the air since 2015 and producing fuel at a pilot plant in Squamish, British Columbia, since the end of last year.

Power plants and transportation are the biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions blamed for climate change. Keith and other sci-entists are advocating for more resources to study geoengineering techniques to manipulate the climate. Some argue it may be the only way to meet the Paris climate accord’s goal of holding the increase in the average global temperature “well below” 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.

Paris TargetsDirect air capture of Carbon dioxide could

help governments meet pollution targets out-lined in the Paris accords that otherwise are likely out of reach by just cutting emissions from power plants and Cars, Keith said.

While past estimates of direct air capture have run as high as $1,000 a metric ton, according to the paper, Carbon Engineering’s technique comes in at $94 to $232 a ton.

“Our fundamental value proposition for fuel is that we can deCarbonize any vehicle,” said Steve Oldham, chief executive officer of Carbon Engineering. Oldham said he’s in talks with oil and natural gas companies interested in using his fuel in markets with Carbon restrictions. A plant that can produce 2,000 barrels of fuel a day would cost about $300 million and take about 3 years to build.

“We have signed agreements with a US company that has very cheap wind power,” Keith said. “They like the investment proposition of taking that now very-low-value wind power, and doing a high capital cost investment in us to make this fuel that’s a very high-value fuel. In some ways you can call it energy arbitrage.”

One day, your car may run on fumes - from power plants

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 2018 3

Mazda’s Ramadan cam-paign offered by National Car Company, the sole agent for Mazda in Qatar, has

attracted fantastic response from the enthusiastic car buyers in Qatar.

Mazda’s Ramadan campaign offers value added benefits such as extended warranty, comprehensive insurance, service, registration etc. on select models over and above the very attractive and competitive prices. Besides other benefits of purchase, Mazda is offering an assured gift to every customer as they get a chance to “Spin” the wheel of fortune and “Win” a surprise high value gift.

Briefing on the Ramadan offers, Sathish Nair, Marketing & Sales Manager – NCC, said, “We are launching our Ramadan campaign with the theme “Everyone Is A Winner”. This is in line with the posi-tioning of Mazda as affordable premium with a unique design, inno-vative technologies, Japanese quality and workmanship. We are sure that this will be a welcome proposition for the customers who are looking for “Quality” and “Value” at the same time”

Among Top Three Finalists at ‘WCOTY 2018’ awards

All-New CX-5 2018 was intro-duced recently realizing Mazda’s dream of delivering an SUV which break through the traditional trade-off between driving pleasure and pas-senger comfort.

One can well imagine what it takes to be the top three finalists at the “World Car Of The Year Awards 2018” even though the crown eluded by a whisker in the final. The finalists were selected by a total of 82 international journalists from 24 different countries.

Each juror “typically drives and eval-uates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of their professional work.”

Kodo DesignThe Kodo – Soul Motion design,

breathing life into the car, has been redefined by strengthening the low, wide expression of the evolved Mazda identity. Mazda has settled on ‘refined toughness’ as a keyword and chal-lenged themselves to elevate the KODO concept to a new level. Inspired by traditional Japanese crafts, Mazda has pursued minimalist aesthetics - Less Is More Concept - free of all non-essential elements. The result is a bold and premium-looking exterior, and an interior that gives all occupants a pleasant feeling.

Driving DynamicsDriving performance has been

polished in line with human sensibil-ities, realizing dynamic behavior that

corresponds with driver expectations and a comfortable ride with minimal torso-sway for all vehicles occupants. The cabin is quieter, allowing for more comfortable conversation, and the rear seats provide greater levels of comfort and usability.

Pro-Active SafetyMajority of the Mazda models,

when equipped with optional front crash-prevention and specific head-lights, tested by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety - USA) has been rated a Top Safety Pick+ and Mazda is the only full-line of passenger manufacturer able to make such a claim in the recent years.

IIHS tests evaluate two aspects of safety: crashworthiness — how well a vehicle protects its occupants in a crash — and crash avoidance and mitigation — technology that can prevent a crash or lessen its

severity. The IIHS awards those who earn good ratings in five crashwor-thiness tests, as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention qualify for Top Safety Pick status.

Mazda’s unwavering com-mitment to making vehicles that thrill and delight is evident in the driving dynamics derived from the confident inspiring i-ACTIV AWD which is far ahead in technology and performance than any contemporary crossover SUV.

The assurance of i-ACTIV all-wheel drive comes through its sensors, which take into account factors like steering angle, throttle inputs and wheel-spin along with temperature and use of wipers to paint a clear picture of the outside conditions. i-ACTIV all-wheel drive can adjust power output more than 200 times per second, using 27 dif-ferent variables, to “predict” what

the road conditions look like.Brand-New Mazda CX-9 is the

ultimate blend of stunning sophis-tication and family SUV. It’s the very first Mazda to feature the break-through SKYACTIV-G 2.5T petrol engine. Delivering class-leading per-formance with real-world efficiency, the turbocharged engine offers driving excitement never before felt in a seven-seat SUV.

The innovative Dynamic Pressure Turbo adjusts boost pressure and airflow according to engine speed to overcome tradi-tional problems such as turbo lag.

Mazda6 is a driver’s car. A per-sonal sports sedan with everything in the cockpit dedicated to helping you celebrate driving through a direct feeling of being at one with the vehicle. For more information, visit Mazda showroom, call 44435965/44417859 or visit www.mazda-qatar.com

‘Every One Is A Winner’ with Mazda’s Ramadan campaign

We are launching our Ramadan campaign with the theme “Everyone Is A Winner”. This is in line with the positioning of Mazda as affordable premium with a unique design, innovative technologies, Japanese quality and workmanship.” Sathish Nair,

Marketing & Sales Manager, NCC

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 20184

The IONIQ Hybrid has been named as the Best Hybrid Car at the inaugural Qatar Car Award for 2018 organized by two of the leading automotive mag-

azines in the Middle East, Maqina and Arabmotors. The Qatar Car Award will be an annual showcase recognizing automotive excellence revealed through rigorous testing and review by the expert team at Maqina and Arab-motors. Hyundai vehicles are available in Qatar at Skyline Automotive, the official distribution partner for the Hyundai Motor Company in Qatar.

Spearheaded by the knowledgeable team from Maqina and Arabmotors, the Qatar Car Award is Qatar’s only recognized automotive award cer-emony, focusing on selecting vehicles that perform best in Qatar’s unique environment. It honors a number of segment-leading vehicles in several categories, including Best Luxury Coupe, Best Supercar, Best Compact SUV, and Best Luxury Crossover. Winners were chosen based on the quality of design, interiors and engines, as well as test drive performance.

“Hyundai Motors has ambitious plans for low or zero emission cars and is quickly establishing itself as a leader in this sector. Adapting a flexible approach that aims to provide a

realistic transition towards clean mobility that fits the different needs and markets, IONIQ Hybrid is the first step towards a full range of electric cars in Qatar,” said Paiman El Malla, General Manager of Skyline Automotive.

“Skyline Automotive has been the official distribution partner for the Hyundai Motor Company in the country since early 2017 and we are proud to be offering some of the best and most diverse cars available in Qatar to our customers,” he added.

Internationally, the Hyundai Motor Company has a wider range of drive-trains than any other company, including fully electric, plug-in, hybrid,

and hydrogen fuel cell. Current pro-duction models, include electric ver-sions of the IONIQ – which is also available as a plug-in and a hybrid, the KONA compact SUV, the NEXO, and the Le Fil Rouge concept car that was revealed in Geneva International Motor Show in 2018.

The IONIQ Hybrid has rewritten the rules for fuel-efficient vehicles and is a response to consumer demand for greener automobiles that deliver exceptional driving experiences.

It is a physical example of Hyundai’s commitment to lead the automobile industry’s sustainability

agenda, both in Qatar and around the world.

The IONIQ Hybrid combines two engines – a 32kW electric motor and

a Kappa 1.6-liter Atkinson GDi engine – which alternate seamlessly through a highly advanced predictive energy management system that collects and analyzes data based on travel routes, driving style and individual driving habits, to optimize energy storage in switching between electric and gasoline propulsion modes to improve overall fuel

efficiency. The IONIQ emits 79g/km of CO2

compared to around 118g/km in the normal vehicle.

Hyundai IONIQ named Best Hybrid Car at Qatar Car Award

“Hyundai Motors has ambitious plans for low or zero emission cars and is quickly establishing itself as a leader in this sector.” Paiman El Malla,

General Manager, Skyline Automotive

AFP

A flying car project backed by Google co-founder Larry Page was closer to take-off on Wednesday, with a model for test flights by aspiring buyers.

Kitty Hawk, funded by Page, unveiled a “Flyer” model it described as “an exciting first step to sharing the freedom of flight.”

The company was created last year in Google’s home town of Mountain View, California, and has been testing a prototype in New Zealand.

Images and details were available at a freshly launched website at flyer.aero, and CNN posted coverage of a reporter taking to the air in a Flyer over a lake at a test site near Las Vegas.

Kitty Hawk chief executive Sebastian Thrun, who founded the Google X lab devoted to “moon-shots” such as self-driving cars and internet-synched eyewear, was quoted by CNN as saying piloting Flyer was as easy playing the video game “Minecraft.”

“Making Flyer accessible, which is what we do at our Lake Las Vegas training facility, helps more people experience the freedom and possi-bilities of vehicles of the future,” a Kitty Hawk spokeswoman told AFP.

“Our immediate priority is to invite small groups of people -- customers, influencers, media and community members - to experience the freedom of flight here in our newly opened

training facility.”People interested in buying Flyers were invited

at the website to apply for an invitation to do so,

with no price specified.An early version of Flyer was shown off last

year.The electric aircraft had 10 small lift rotors on

its wings, making it capable of vertical take-off and landing like a helicopter.

Kitty Hawk said that at 15 meters (50 feet) away, it sounded about as lound as a lawn mower, while from 250 feet away the volume was on par with a loud conversation.

Test flights by first-timers were over water, with the top speed limited to 32 kilometers per hour (20 mph) and the altitude to no more than three meters.

The uncovered cockpit appeared big enough for one person, with their head poking out as it might from a go-kart.

“Flyer is designed to be easy to fly and flown for recreational purposes over water and uncon-gested areas,” the website said.

“Flyer is Kitty Hawk’s first personal flying vehicle and the first step to make flying part of everyday life.”

An earlier prototype, introduced in an article in the New York Times in early 2017, included protective netting around the pilot seat and a pair of red-tipped pontoons as landing gear.

The company didn’t say when the Flyer would go on sale or how much it would cost. It’s likely

the vehicle will first be made available to luxury resorts or clubs as a form of recreation over open water, similar to the water jet pack.

The Flyer is one of two major initiatives at Kitty Hawk. The other, dubbed Cora, is a two-seat electric aircraft with 13 rotors that takes off and lands vertically and is designed as a trans-portation alternative in cities. The company is currently testing Cora in New Zealand. On its website, Kitty Hawk says the plan is to offer the aircraft as “part of a service similar to an airline or a rideshare.”

At least a dozen other companies around the world, including Airbus, Uber and a startup called Joby Aviation, are also pursuing the sci-fi dream of personal aircraft that can zoom over congested highways.

While Kitty Hawk is developing single-seat and two-seat aircraft, other companies are looking at vehicles that seat from four to six, imagining this new form of transportation as akin to a flying taxi cab.

Page and Sergey Brin founded Google in 1998, starting out in a Silicon Valley garage and trans-forming into one of the world’s largest companies.

He remains chief executive of Google-parent Alphabet but the Kitty Hawk project is a personal pursuit, not part of the tech giant’s operations.

Flying car startup offers test flights

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 2018 5

The all-new Honda Jazz has won Wheels Magazine’s Best Compact car award at the annual Wheels Car of the Year awards which was held

recently. The Wheels Car of the Year is the region’s longest running independent auto-motive awards and is in its 10th year.

According to the judges, comprising of the editorial team at Wheels, the Jazz won for several good reasons including that fact that this ‘car is fun to drive and is blessed with a cabin with lots of space.’

Commenting on the award, Faisal Sharif, Managing Director of Domasco, said, “We are extremely pleased to have been recognised by one of the foremost motoring teams in the region. This award is a fantastic accolade for both the Honda brand and the Jazz. With its updated and

sportier styling, the all-new Jazz offers unmatched versatility and class-leading space and has an extremely loyal fol-lowing. We look forward to building on this success.”

The all-new Jazz comes loaded with fea-tures including a new 7.0in colour Display Audio touchscreen with swipe and touch functionality, Steering Wheel Mounted Con-trols, keyless entry, cruise control, rear parking sensors, a four-speaker sound system, two USB ports and an HDMI port. As for safety, it has ABS with EBD, hill-start assist, Isofix latches, and two airbags.

The Jazz exudes a bold confidence too with its sporty, lower and wider look while under the bonnet is a peppy 1.5-litre Direct Injection i-VTEC engine that generates 130hp and 155Nm of torque.

A low and confident stance gives way to a sleek, streamlined profile, where the emphasis is on sporty detailing and a striking set of new 16” alloy wheels. Front fog lights help to navigate in poor visibility weather and striking rear lights make the Jazz a head turner.

The 2018 Jazz incorporates ‘man maximum, machine minimum’ design phi-losophy and offers unmatched practicality and versatility. The new platform employs optimized packaging solutions to provide best-in-class space for occupants and cargo.

A lower-profile fuel tank mounted in the center frees up underfloor space beneath the rear seats, enabling the platform to accommodate Honda’s innovative Magic Seats system.

Honda CR-V has won the Best Small SUV at the 2018 Middle East Car of the Year Awards held recently.

Now in its 5th year, the MECOTY awards are the biggest, most coveted awards cer-emony of the regional automotive industry and the judging panel includes some of the most respected motoring journalists from around the region. Winners of the MECOTY awards were chosen based on test drives by the jury members and public voting.

Vehicles that are ‘All New’ model over the period of 06-12 months are nominated. The cars then go through a 3-stage process namely: Nomination, Jury Test Drives and Final Scores based on Jury Scoring and Public Voting.

The new CR-V boasts of bold new styling, a more premium interior and a host of new features and technologies. The CR-V targets the highest levels of quality and driving refinement in its class with top class steering precision, ride comfort, body control and cabin quietness. The new CR-V comes in four grades namely, DX and LX in 2 Wheel Drive (2WD) and EX and Touring in All Wheel Drive (AWD).

The CR-V is powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC, direct injected i-VTEC engine that is mated to a smooth shifting and sporty con-tinuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic.

In addition to the CR-V, Accord which was launched in October 2016 won the Best Midsize Sedan in the 2018 MECOTY awards. It should be noted that Accord has undergone a full-model change on March 2018.

Faisal Sharif, Managing Director of Domasco, the exclusive distributor of Honda in Qatar, said, “We are extremely pleased to

have won these prestigious awards as the MECOTY awards recognize the very best in the automotive industry. These awards are also further testament to the quality and per-formance of these vehicles and is a fantastic accolade for the brand as the judging panel includes some of the biggest names in auto-motive journalism and experts in their field.”

Domasco announces Ramadan offers

Doha Marketing Services Company (Domasco), the exclusive distributor of Honda in Qatar, is giving away up to three million Qatar Airways Privilege Club Qmiles

as part of its Ramadan promotion this year. Customers purchasing a new Honda car will receive between

20,000 to 60,000 Qmiles and can also benefit from two years interest-free payments and 90 days deferred payment on their first instalment. On pre-owned Honda vehicles, Domasco is giving Marks & Spencer gift cards worth up to QR 2,000 and two years interest-free payments on select models.

On the purchase of a Honda bike, customers can avail cashback of up to QR 47,000, get their first two services free along with free registration, free third party insurance for 1 year and a free Honda jacket.

Honda Marine is offering an attractive price of QR 125,000 on a set of two BF250 engines. An added feature that customers can benefit from is the new multifunctional display screen that has replaced the conventional gauges. With each purchase, customers get free installation and the first five services free.

Faisal Sharif, Managing Director, Domasco, said, “In the true spirit of Ramadan, we’ve put together one of our best deals with attractive financing options, deferred payments up to 90 days and two years interest-free payments.”

Domasco’s Honda Ramadan offers are available at the showroom on Khalifa Street near the National Mosque and TV signal. During the Holy month, the showroom will be open Sat-urday to Thursday from 8am to 2pm and 7.30pm to midnight and on Friday from 8pm to 11pm.

Honda CR-V named Best Small SUV at MECOTY Awards

Honda Jazz wins Best Compact car award

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 20186

AHMED SALEM

Doha Marketing Services Company (Domasco), the exclusive agent and distributor of Honda, Volvo, & GAC vehicles in Qatar, has implemented a set of strategies specifically

designed to ensure that their goals for 2018 for their automotive divisions (Honda, Volvo, & GAC) are met. This set of strategies will ensure that Domasco’s future endeavors in 2018 are success-fully carried out in a manner that aligns with their high standards and their constant quest for cus-tomer satisfaction.

In line with Domasco’s strategies for Honda in 2018, the company has put all its emphasis on rein-venting its customer engagement program. “We set out to engage our customers in a manner that is proactive. We are keen on receiving our cus-tomers’ input, to help us in satisfying them effec-tively, and to adhere to any potential requirements or needs,” stated Faisal Sharif, Managing Director — Domasco. “We are not confused about how we decide to approach our customers, however, with employing new strategies such as the new cus-tomer engagement program, our goal is to actively engage our customers in the conversation and help us satisfy their needs. Through the customer engagement program, our team will be trained to handle customers’ input well, and to actively work on addressing them in a way that leads to customer satisfaction,” he added.

Honda has so far witnessed a successful year with the launch of its acclaimed new CR-V that has recently won the ‘best small SUV’ at the 2018 Middle East Car of the Year (MECOTY) Awards. The MECOTY awards are the biggest and most coveted in the regional automotive industry. The Honda Accord also won the ‘best midsize sedan’ in the 2018 MECOTY awards. The Accord has undergone a full-model reinvention in 2018. “We are extremely elated to have received those prestigious awards by the MECOTY awards distinguished panel of judges,“ stated Sharif.

“These awards are a further testament to the quality and performance of those vehicles and an extraordinary accolade for Honda.” Although the current political situation seemed to create chal-lenges for Domasco’s automotive divisions’ per-formance, reality has proven otherwise.

“We have grown our automotive businesses. We had to realign some of our parts sourcing which

we managed in a timely and successful way,” expressed Sharif. “Our after-sales team worked relentlessly to ensure that our always high levels of customer satisfaction were not impacted, and we are confident in our after-sales team’s efforts in carrying out our strategies successfully, at all times.”

In line with Ramadan’s giving nature, Honda plans to give away a total of 3 million Qatar Airways Privilege Club Qmiles. Honda Customers can benefit from 20,000 to 60,000 Qmiles with the purchase of each new Honda Car. In addition, they can also avail free interest for 2 years and a 90 days grace period for the first installment. As for the Used Cars division, Honda customers will be able to receive free Marks & Spencer gift cards worth up to QR 2,000 with the purchase of all Honda used cars along with a 2 years interest free option on some select models.

Domasco’s 2018 strategies for Volvo Cars, another blue chip automotive brand that makes up a part of their automotive portfolio, are designed to accommodate Volvo’s specific brand DNA. “Volvo is a technologically advanced car brand, and one of the most revered and established world-wide,” stated Sharif.

“Volvo DNA encompasses the 3 core values of safety, quality, & environmental care. Volvo’s vision is to ensure the erosion of car fatalities and injuries by 2020. It is definitely a bold vision, however, Volvo has proven time and time again that it can make such statements, because the brand is renowned internationally for manufacturing the safest cars in the world.” Volvo aims to completely revamp its entire model line-up by 2020 as well,

and that incredible feat is supported by the brand enthusiasts, as well as its investors and backers. The catalyst in this incredible rebranding is Volvo’s endless quest for high-quality advancement and its diligence in maintaining customer satisfaction and safety.

“Domasco has successfully helped Volvo in achieving its highest automotive market share in Doha amongst other GCC countries.” stated Sharif “For a premium car brand such as Volvo, to acquire and maintain such a sizable market share, that is an unprecedented achievement, and we are keen on upholding it.”

For Ramadan, Volvo Cars offers to provide its customers a total of 1 million Qatar Airways Priv-ilege Club Qmiles, 0% interest for the 1st year on select models, three months grace period, 4 years/100,000 KMS warranty, and 4 years/60,000 KMS free service. As for the Volvo Used-cars division, Customers will be offered cash back of up to QR 20,000, 0% interest for the 1st year on select models, 2 years warranty, and free acces-sories worth QR 1,000.

GAC Motor, the third of Domasco’s Automotive portfolio, and a subsidiary of GAC Group, has con-sistently introduced products that combine state-of-the-art technology and innovation, which has resulted in a strong interest from customers. “Domasco has been successful in establishing GAC Motor as a legitimate competitor in the local market,” expressed Sharif.

Every vehicle in the GAC Motor range has been awarded a 5 star rating in the C-NCAP test, which provides every driver with the confidence that both the passive and active safety features are beyond question. The company develops and manufac-tures premium quality vehicles, engines, compo-nents and auto accessories. With sales and service

networks established in 14 countries supported by top global suppliers, GAC Motor is to enter the US market in 2019. For Ramadan, GAC Motor offers its customers Cash Back up to QR 3,000, 1 year free comprehensive insurance, 1 year/20,000kms free service, 1 year free registration, low down payment,QR 888 per month installment on the GA3 model, QR 1,199 per month installment on the GS4, and QR 1,799 per month installment of the GS8 model.

As a testament to Domasco’s Success with Volvo, the company was awarded the ‘Best Per-formance of the Year’, for the third successive year, in 2017 by Volvo Trucks, where Domasco was ranked atop the entire Middle East, East and North African region. The company was also awarded the ‘Outstanding Aftersales & Parts Performance’ award by Volvo Trucks.

“We take pride in receiving both awards by Volvo Trucks. Our skilled and experienced team help us inch more and more towards ultimate cus-tomer satisfaction every day, thereby ensuring increased vehicle uptime, lower cost of ownership, maximum safety and best in class fuel efficiency,” stated Sharif.

“These awards are a further testament to our relentless efforts in providing our customers with the highest levels of service and quality products.”

“Buses marked another success story in our automotive businesses with the delivery of 37 Volvo luxury buses to MBM Transport for their high profile, blue chip customers. This deal was awarded the “Star Deal of the Year” award for the Middle East, Africa & CIS (MEAC) region by Volvo Bus Corporation.”

“We are also entering into new automotive businesses, the successes of which you will be seeing in the days to come,” Sharif concluded.

Domasco lays out 2018 strategies for automotive divisions

We have grown our automotive businesses. We had to realign some of our parts sourcing which we managed in a timely and successful way.” Faisal Sharif,

Managing Director, Domasco

Alfardan Sports Motors, the official importer of Ferrari in Qatar, welcomed the latest model from the iconic Ferrari stable, the Ferrari Portofino. The new model arrived to the market this month showcasing perfect

combination of outright performance and versatility in addition to a level of driving pleasure and on-board comfort unparalleled on the market.

Ferrari has chosen a particularly evocative name for this exceptionally versatile drop-top car. Portofino is renowned for its charming port and, over the years, has become internationally synonymous with elegance, sport-iness and understated luxury. The launch colour of the new Ferrari has also been dedicated to this marvellous town: Rosso Portofino.

Capable of unleashing a massive 600 cv and sprinting

from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, the Ferrari Portofino is the most powerful convertible to combine the advantages of a retractable hard top, a roomy boot and generous cockpit space plus two rear seats suitable for short trips.

The Ferrari Portofino’s all-new chassis features a signif-icant weight saving over the California T it replaces. Thanks to the extensive use of modern production technologies, all the chassis and body-in-white components have been rede-signed with a consequent reduction in weight despite an increase in torsional rigidity.

The Portofino is a Ferrari designed to be driven every day that also effortlessly converts from an authentic ‘berlinetta’ coupé to a drop-top capable of delivering a unique Ferrari soundtrack and superb driving pleasure even in day-to-day situations.

Ferrari Portofino arrives in Qatar

Turkey to allocate $3.7bn for first indigenous carYUCEL VELIOGLU / ANADOLU

Turkey will allocate €3.2 billion ($3.7 billion) for its first domesti-cally-produced car, Science, Industry and Technology Minister Faruk Ozlu said on Friday.

“The basic parameters of the project were shaped. We will invest €3.2 billion. There will be a facility that has a capacity of producing 200,000 cars. There were five models of cars. As we thought since the beginning, the car will be electric one,” Ozlu said, in a live interview with private news channel TGRT Haber.

Ozlu said the project will have a contribution of around €50 billion ($58.8 billion) to the gross national product in the long term.

“Within this project, we will provide directly 4,000 and indirectly 20,000 jobs,” he added.

The minister said they will catch the fancy of middle and upper classes, adding: “We are mostly thinking of a car in segments B and C. It will be cheaper than peers. We aim it to be at least five percent cheaper than its peers. We aim to produce a car that will be more qualified than its peers.”

Last November, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that the prototype of the first domestically produced car -- expected to be pro-duced in Ankara -- would be ready in 2019 and enter market in 2021.

“The place is not certain yet. Our aim is to unveil the prototype of the domestic car in 2019 and want to present it for sale in 2021,” Ozlu said.

A partnership agreement to create the country's first indigenous car brand was signed on May 31.

The manufacturing company was named Turkey's automobile Initiative Group. Five local firms -- Anadolu Group, BMC, Kok Group, Turkcell, and Zorlu Holding with 19 percent of shares each -- and the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey (TOBB) with 5 percent of shares will jointly lead the firm.

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 2018 7

Celebrating the Holy Month of Ramadan, Al Taleb Motors, the exclusive distributor of Borgward vehicles, is launching its special promotion for the Borgward,

German-brand CUVs (Cross-over Utility Vehicles). Borgward Group AG is a globally-active auto-

motive manufacturer that is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany with three research centers across the globe.After more than half a century, Borgward, an iconic and highly-praised German car brand, is proud to announce its return. With its global strategy and its innovative, dynamic and high quality vehicles, Borgward has set its path to return as an internationally-acclaimed German automotive brand with the launch of the award-winning and highly-anticipated German designed and engineered, the BX5 and BX7 intelligent SUV’s.

Al Taleb Motors, a member of the Taleb Group of companies, offers to Borgward customers- 5

years/ 100,000 kilometres manufacture warranty, 5-years /93,000 kilometres service, and customers can avail of the 5 years/ up to 60 months in-house financing instalment plan, No down payment, free 1 year registration. Also, a lucky draw for 2 buyers to win tickets to visit Bremen in Germany and coupons for car window tint.

BX7 is equipped with a 2.0T Direct Injection Turbo Engine which was jointly researched and developed by Borgward R&D team and world top partners like Bosch, FEV and IHI etc. The adoption of advanced direct injection system and accurate cylinder processing technologies not only can reduce engine oil consumption, but also can bring users more effective power output and more dependable durability.(Maximum Torque 300Nm/1500-5000rpm, Acceleration time from 0 to 100km/h in 9.1s). “Aisin” 6-Speed triptronic AT Transmission with manual and sports mode.

Electronic Speed Sensitive Power Steering for high driving steering convenience.

It has a spacious body -1911mm width and 4715mm length aggressive design and elegant texture excels its peers of the same class and even luxury SUVs of higher class.

Panoramic Sunroof and dual sport exhaust system, xenon HID adaptive headlamps, and 18 inch alloy rim with black coating shows its rede-fined design. While the interior elegance features, premium leather seats and door trims with diamond patterns shows the superior German quality of the interior details. A large- 12.3 inches touch anti-glare screen monitor, equip with navigation/GPS/ Bluetooth and voice command system for a full sense interactive experience. A dual zone climate control air conditioned system with rear air vents for the 2nd and 3rd row passenger’s comfort. And a 360 degrees panoramic camera for drivers full driving manoeuvring.

Introducing BX7’s innovative 4 MAX Borgward Intelligent AWD system with Electronic stability control. Up and down hill assist. Electronic parking brake and auto-hold features.Borgward 4 wheel

real-time intelligent distribution of power and torque, thus reasonably distributing driving force and improving performance in corners for a smooth and comfortable driving advantage.

While the BX5 models comes with1.8L (190hp) or 1.4L (150hp) (4cylinder) direct-injection turbo engine with options of AWD /FWD drive system, 8’inches interactive touch screen monitor and leather interior. Its young energetic and smart design makes it a favourable SUV for sports and active enthusiast. Both models have active safety features such as high steel strength body for pas-senger protection and many others.

Test Drive a Borgward and receive a gift for the first 100 customers, just visit the Borgward showroom, located at New Salata, C-ring road, beside Turkish Hospital, Saturday- Thursday, 8-12 noon/ 4-8 pm.

For inquiries customers can call 66307316, or send email to altaleb.sales66307316@talebgroup.com / ttc.mgr.33603864@talebgroup.com.

Readers can follow Borgward Qatar on https://www.facebook.com/BorgwardQA and Website: www.borgward.com.qa

Special promotion for Borgward CUVs

DAN COOPER

Your vehicle’s starter motor has the important job of starting the engine. But something also has to start the starter. And that something is the

solenoid. In most automotive applications today, the solenoid is attached to the starter, with the two of them getting removed as a unit when necessary.

How a solenoid worksWhen running properly, and as long as it

has a supply of fuel, the internal combustion engine continues to run by itself in an ongoing process from the inertia of the engine’s moving parts.

But starting the engine is a separate process to get that inertia moving in the first place. This is the job of the starting system, whose main components include the:

� Battery� Starter motor� Solenoid� Starter switch

Starting an engine: The first action

The process involves not one, but two sep-arate electric currents – a stronger one and a weaker one.

When activated, usually by turning a key in the ignition switch, the weaker current passes through the switch and to the solenoid.

At that point, the current forces two large contacts to come together in the solenoid, which allows the stronger electric current to pass through the solenoid’s contacts.

These contacts carry a current that requires heavy wiring cables directly from the battery. This current is heavy enough that it would be unwise to send it through a hand-operated switching mechanism. Hence, the need for the weaker current through the ignition switch.

The stronger current passes to the starter motor where it initiates two separate actions. The starter motor is designed so that the electric current activates a lever, forcing a small gear outward on a spring shaft.

When extended, this gear, called a pinion,

comes in contact with a toothed gear on the outer rim of a large flywheel on the end of the engine’s drive shaft. This large gear is called the starter ring gear.

Starting an engine: The second action

The second action in a direct current electric motor is the rotation of its central shaft, caused by the larger current passing through the motor. A motor transforms electric energy into the mechanical energy of the central shaft’s rotation. It does this because the electric current interacts with the magnetic field in the starter motor and results in the rotor on the shaft beginning to turn. By the time this turning action reaches the motor’s designed top speed, the pinion at the end of this shaft has already engaged the ring gear on the fly-wheel. The engine then starts running on its own and the starter’s safety features automatically dis-engage the pinion from the ring gear. The spring brings the pinion safely back to its resting position and the job of the starting mechanism is done.

When starting, if you hold the ignition key in the “start” position a little too long, you will encounter a problem. Here, too, is a spring that brings the switch back to the “on” position from “start” as soon as you release the key. If you fail to do so, you will hear the evidence of your mistake pretty quickly. The good news is that your mistake is not as bad as it sounds. The safety mechanism in the starter has already released the pinion from the ring gear. The bad news is if you do this often or for any extended period, you may drastically shorten the life of the starter motor.

What is a solenoid?

SUNDAY 10 JUNE 20188

The all-new Isuzu D-Max marks a whole era in pick-up trucks. It is toughness redefined. Encompassing aggressive new styling and new levels of comfort added to the legendary durability and

fuel efficiency of Isuzu, it strives to bedazzle the competition and succeeds. Whether it is hauling big loads, powering through the work week, cruising through the weekend or going where the others would not even dare, this is one pick-up you can depend on.

Isuzu DNA Isuzu D-Max boasts of a lineage of the

world’s toughest, most reliable trucks. Almost a century of truck-manufacturing DNA has gone into the all new Isuzu D-Max to deliver a pick up that truly redefines the category. A brand-new truck-tough chassis means even better balance and performance whether loaded or not, delivering superior stability and road holding in all conditions. And it doesn’t stop there. Under every bonnet you will find an Isuzu diesel engine that offers continuous power for all types of work and the fuel economy to help you save. Designed with superior know-how that has seen over 23 million Isuzu diesel engines sold worldwide, and combined with state-of-the-art Japanese technology, you don’t just get a pick-up, you get true truck DNA with every Isuzu D-Max.

Impressive Capabilities Over and above the sporty new looks and lux-

urious interior, Isuzu D-Max, true to its line and badge, is built to work hard for all professionals. With a larger and stronger rear tray and 4WD elec-tronic shift-on-the-fly, there’s not much it can’t handle. Big loads, steep gradients, tough terrains, bumps and scrapes—it takes them all in its stride. If you need a tried and tested workhorse that you can depend on, the all-new Isuzu D-Max is the pick-up for you.

Amazing Comfort Isuzu D-Max surrounds you with new levels of

comfort, whether behind the wheel or riding as a passenger. The spacious cabin provides greater head and leg room for front and rear passengers; the newly designed wider door arches and A-pillar

assist grips make access even easier. Ergonomi-cally designed seats provide superior support and allow you to appreciate the luxury touches you wouldn’t expect in a pick-up. From advanced noise control to keep the outside world at bay, to a mul-titude of storage compartments and cup holders within easy reach which are developed under the concept of Isuzu’s “universal design,” no effort has been spared to ensure every drive is a pleasurable journey.

Impeccable Safety Isuzu D-Max amply benefits from the Isuzu

priority for safety. There are dual air-bags with pre-tensioning seatbelts, an energy absorbing nose section, and side impact anti-intrusion bars. The newly engineered cabin shell constructed from high tensile steel for increased strength and rigidity gives even greater safety to all pas-sengers. Coupled with these you have the extra assurance of Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), not to mention new projector headlamps and LED for rear combination-lamps for maximum visibility. You can drive with con-fidence that the new Isuzu D-Max is the safest pick-up yet.

Future Ready Isuzu D-Max easily balances the most demanding

task of balancing environmental sensitivities with a high performance work vehicle. With class-leading aerodynamics developed from the ‘Bullet Train’ and aeronautical technology, it is perhaps the most fuel-efficient of pick-ups which achieves class leading CO2 emission reduction. Combine that with superior engine performance, Isuzu’s renowned reliability, toughness, and a sleek new look that is guaranteed to turn heads - You have the complete package—a new era in pick-up trucks. In fact, Isuzu D-Max epit-omizes the future of pick-up motoring.

The future of pick-ups