Autonomous mobility in the UAE shall witness a rise in the coming months as Bayanat, a leading provider of AI-powered geospatial solutions, declares its intention to enter into a joint venture partnership with South Korean autonomous technology firm, Autonomous a2z. This joint venture will focus on the development and deployment of autonomous solutions and systems across the UAE and the wider MENA region. For the layman, the benefits of this partnership could result in the emergence of a network of autonomous vehicles that can seamlessly carry passengers between inner-city hubs such as Abu Dhabi airport, the capital’s major tourist attractions and other expansive areas. The inaugural DRIFTx event in Abu Dhabi earlier this year already saw both brands officially confirm the commencement of the partnership by displaying a live demonstration of their autonomous capabilities comprising a vehicle 7,000 kilometres away in South Korea being safely teleoperated from the Bayanat Pavilion in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The announcement of this partnership comes at an opportune time as Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, recently issued a resolution to establish the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) that’s aimed to drive the development and integration of autonomous systems across various sectors beyond vehicles in the UAE.

Two legacy British brands join hands as Arsenal Football Club appoints MG Motor as its “official automotive partner”. MG Middle East announced the regional commencement of the three-year partnership with Arsenal Football Club starting July 2024 in the Middle East to boost the brand’s visibility on a global scale. As the Official automotive partner of Arsenal Football Club, MG Motor will support both men’s and women’s football teams with a proud and prominent showcase of the brand at Emirates Stadium and Meadow Park. The partnership will see both brands collaborate in promotion activities, content creation and marketing strategies to boost both brand’s visibility and create a stronger connection with fans globally. Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East, commented: “ At MG, we take a strategic and thorough approach to partnerships both regionally and globally. Partnering with Arsenal Football Club, with its rich history, success, and growing popularity, especially in the Middle East, is a natural fit. Our shared vision for innovation, quality, and exceptional customer experience aligns seamlessly with Arsenal’s values. We are enthusiastic about the opportunities this collaboration presents and look forward to a prosperous future together.”

British carmaker Bentley is all set to launch the most powerful, most dynamic and most efficient four-door car in its 105-year history – the Bentley Flying Spur with the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain. Already doing duty in the recently unveiled Continental GT Speed, the new performance-focussed 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain will put out 771 hp and 1000 Nm torques. The engine is accompanied by a compact electric motor which allows this luxury performance sedan to be driven without any emissions or exhaust note for at least 72 kms or 45 miles and boosts the overall range of the car to an excess of 800 kms or 500 miles. ‘Electrocharging’ is what Bentley calls this combination of electric power with the twin-turbocharger setup with the power output receiving a bump of 150hp and 100Nm torques over the W12 engine in the Flying Spur Speed being sold currently.

June 2024 witnessed the official launch of the all-new Morgan Plus Four in the Middle East with Adamas Motor Group, the exclusive Retail Partner of Morgan Motor Company in the UAE and Bahrain. The launch also hosted a Best of British Charity Auction with five bespoke prints slated to go under the hammer, each inspired by Morgan’s rich history. Now, Adamas Motor Group announced the successful conclusion of its Best of British Charity Auction with all five prints crafted by British artist Jim Wheat collectively raising AED 126,500. The entire amount has been donated to Emirates Red Crescent to support orphans in need across the region. The handover ceremony, held at Adamas Motor Group’s Dubai showroom, was attended by key representatives from Emirates Red Crescent, along with Edward Hobart, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. “The Best of British Charity Auction has been a wonderful showcase of the enduring spirit of British generosity and the exquisite craftsmanship that defines many successful British businesses. I am delighted to see Adamas Motor Group supporting such a noble cause and commend their efforts in celebrating British motoring heritage while aiding those most in need”, commented Edward Hobart, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates.