Vietnamese EV automaker Vinfast set to arrive in the Middle East

Global New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sales leader BYD recently opened a brand new showroom in Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road in collaboration with Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company as part of BYD’s “Closer to You” strategy. Both firms hosted an official SZR showroom opening where visitors and select media personnel including The Cornea Impression had an exclusive opportunity to preview the highly anticipated YangWang U8, marking its first-ever appearance in the UAE. Launch for the same is scheduled for sometime in 2025 with up to 8 variants on offer comprising both BEV and Hybrid powertrains.

This state-of-the-art facility sprawling 750 square meters, located right next to the Oasis Mall for easier accessibility to Dubai residents, has already registered more than 1,000 walk-ins and test drive bookings. The new BYD facility boasts special interactive discovery zones within its premises to educate customers of the benefits and capabilities of BYD’s cutting-edge technologies such as BYD’s Blade battery and DM-i engine and technologies through full-scale models and interactive exhibits. Ample parking equipped with EV charging stations is also available within the facility’s premises. Hasan Nergiz, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company, commented, Our focus moving forward is accessibility, therefore by the end of the year, we aim to cover 90% of the market within 15 kilometres of a BYD showroom, with new locations opening in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Ras Al Khaimah. We’re also aiming to expand our after-sales services and introduce mobile servicing, allowing customers to service their vehicles at their convenience, at home or on the go. This initiative is a major step in making the transition to EVs even more convenient in the region.”

Developing EVs has been a capital-intensive affair for brands which has influenced them to join hands. BMW and Toyota recently announced plans of coming together to explore hydrogen fuel-cell EV technology. And now, the latest alliance to be announced involves General Motors and Hyundai Motor Company as they sign an agreement to “explore future collaboration across key strategic areas”. These key areas include potential collaborations to co-develop passenger and commercial vehicles featuring clean-energy, electric and hydrogen technologies as well as internal combustion engines, sourcing raw materials for batteries and steel and working together to reduce production costs overall.

The framework agreement was signed by Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung and GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra where the former commented, “This partnership will enable Hyundai Motor and GM to evaluate opportunities to enhance competitiveness in key markets and vehicle segments, as well as drive cost efficiencies and provide stronger customer value through our combined expertise and innovative technologies.”