October 2018 61 www.bahrainthismonth.com motoringnews&launches The Audi e-tron is the first fully electrically powered series production model. Its expressive sill area, the electric tailboard and the light grey Singleframe are indicators of the high-voltage technology. It is powered by two powerful electric motors that are locally CO2neutral and virtually silent. A key factor for the sporty character and outstanding transverse dynamics is the low and central position at which the battery system is installed, giving the vehicle a range that is suitable for driving long distances. During far more than 90 per cent of all decelerations, the Audi e-tron recovers energy solely via its electric motors. The electric SUV taps its maximum recuperation potential in combination with the integrated electrohydraulic brake control system. Audi is the world’s first carmaker to use such a system in an electrically powered series production vehicle. The optional virtual exterior mirrors are a worldwide first in a series production model. They reduce aerodynamic drag, and also take digitalisation in the vehicle to a whole new level. Nissan has unveiled two new vehicles at the 2018 Hannover Motor Show – the Nissan Navara Dark Sky Concept and the Nissan Navara N-Guard – both highlighting the marque’s increasing versatility in Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV). Inspired by the cosmos, and developed in the UK, in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA), the Navara Dark Sky Concept functions as a mobile astronomy lab, featuring a world-leading, observatory-class telescope on a bespoke off-road trailer. It also comes with upgraded ProPILOT driver assistance technology, upgraded to make it the most capable pickup for safe and convenient towing. ESA precisely maps stars using the Gaia satellite, and the Nissan Navara Dark Sky concept helps astronomers conduct follow-up observations of the universe from hard-to-reach, so-called ‘dark sky’ locations – away from the visibilityreducing night-time glow of urban areas. The concept includes a range of smart features such as the Intelligent Around View Monitor system, Blind Spot Warning, and Intelligent Towing Hitch Alignment. Also making its debut was the Nissan Navara N-Guard, a tough and stylish special version featuring a number of exterior and interior design upgrades, extending the Navara’s appeal to those who want a superior pickup for off-road adventures. A Celestial Partnership A Fun Drive Following the global launch of the McLaren Shadow Project – the virtual racing programme that mirrors McLaren’s real world – Bahrain-based TIG Holdings together with UK-based motorsport agency MPA Creative and McLaren announced a dynamic new partnership. The triumvirate will promote esports across the Arabian Gulf region (GCC) through the McLaren Shadow Project. This will be the first Arabic language esports competition, and will give a GCC national the opportunity to compete in the worldwide finals at McLaren headquarters in Woking, UK, in January 2019. The competition aims to identify talent, attract broader consumer engagement, and provide road safety and driver awareness education across the GCC. “Our long-term agreements with McLaren and MPA Creative provide us with a solid and sustainable platform to expand this initiative across the Arab-speaking world over time,” says TIG Holdings co-founder and director Dr Mohammed Ahmed Jumaan. A Virtual Racing Concept Hackett and Aston Martin have collaborated to create a Hackett edition of the Aston Martin Q Rapide S car, combining sensational sports car performance with Hackett’s key brand values. Designed exclusively by Hackett chairman, Jeremy Hackett, in collaboration with chief creative officer of Aston Martin, Marek Reichman, the car’s Mako Blue exterior, Union Jack Aston Martin wings and 3D minted polo player side badges embody Hackett’s identifying values. The interior is covered with a Prince of Wales check supplied by Fox Brothers and Co, with the inside of the accessories featuring a blue and white striped material, like a traditional suit lining. Additionally, it includes highlights of Hackett’s blue colourway and embossed logo. An exclusive luxury accessories range will also launch in line with the car, including a large holdall and a small 24-hour holdall both made from the check cloth with black leather piping and handles, adorned with the Aston Martin by Hackett signature label. Limited Edition Ride Inaugural winner Rudy van Buren
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