The Group is operating 45 eco-friendly World Expo 2030 logo-wrapped vehicles in Davos, Switzerland as delegate transportation
· The electrified fleet includes Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV as well as Genesis GV60, Electrified GV70 and Electrified G80 and is supported by Hyundai IONIQ 5’s V2L feature
· The Group also is displaying the Genesis X concept at the Davos venue hosting ‘Korea Night’
SEOUL/DAVOS, January 16, 2023 – Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is promoting the South Korean city of Busan’s bid to host World EXPO 2030 at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, an event that engages the world’s top political, business and cultural leaders.
During the forum held from Jan. 16 to 20, the Group is operating a fleet of 58 vehicles wrapped with Busan’s World Expo 2030 logo to promote the city to the forum-attending world political and business leaders, Swiss citizens and other visitors.
In line with Busan’s World Expo vision for a sustainable future (‘Transforming Our World, Navigating Towards a Better Future’), the fleet includes 45 eco-friendly models, including 18 Genesis Electrified G80, eight GV60, four Electrified GV70 and 15 Hyundai Santa Fe plug-in hybrid vehicles. In addition, dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are set up near event venues along with IONIQ 5 units to provide emergency charging using the model’s Vehicle to Load (V2L) feature.
Not only will the fleet being used as official transportation for the forum’s Korean delegates, but the wrapped vehicles will also function as moving billboards to promote Busan as the host city for the World Expo 2030.
To support the fleet, the Group arranged safety measures in case of any sudden changes in winter weather or other emergencies. The fleet is being equipped with AWD and winter tires and a dedicated technical team is on site to ensure safety.
The Group is also displaying the Genesis X concept car in a transparent container at the entrance of the event hall that is hosting ‘Korea Night’ during the WEF. The EV-based concept car presents Genesis’ new perspective on sustainable luxury car design.
Prior to WEF, the Group also promoted Busan’s bid at the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) General Assembly in Paris in June and November last year, with fleet vehicles wrapped with the Busan World Expo logo.
The Group also supported the Busan World Expo bid with promotional banners and brochures during the official vehicle delivery ceremony at the G20 Bali Summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, last November.
In addition, the Group is utilizing its global network to further support the bid through various marketing activities, such as new product launches. Also, the Group is producing content to highlight Busan’s ability to host the World Expo and its vision for the future and sharing it through social channels, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
LED High Performance headlamps, comfort seats in ARTICO/fabric, leather steering wheel and 10.25-inch media display already included as standard
New MBUX generation and optional immersive sound experience with Dolby Atmos
Upgraded Driver Assistance Package and electrified powertrains
With numerous innovations and upgraded standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz is strengthening the position of the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake as trendsetters in the compact segment. The newly shaped front apron, the revised radiator grille with star pattern and the new rear diffuser sharpen the sporty character. Added to this are the modernised graphics in the LED High Performance headlamps, which are standard for the first time, and the LED rear lights. The new paint colours hyper blue (exclusive to the CLA models) and spectral blue, as well as three additional wheel-rim designs in sizes up to 19 inches, extend the choice for individualisation. As standard, the new CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake models are fitted with 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels in vanadium silver or a five-double-spoke design in high-gloss black with high-sheen finish.
Exclusive interior with high-tech look, fresh colours and new trims
The highlight of the interior is the free-standing double screen. It now includes a 7-inch and a 10.25-inch display as standard. Two 10.25-inch displays with a wide-screen look are optionally available. They offer a holistic high-tech experience and create an exceptionally open spatial architecture. The steering wheel of the current generation is upholstered in leather Nappa as standard. Alternatively, the multifunction sports steering wheel is available in ARTICO man made leather for the first time. The new trim elements in a dark carbon look, open-pore brown lime wood or brown MICROCUT microfibre (AMG Line only) further enhance the interior. A heated steering wheel rim is also available in the AMG Line for the first time.
The comfort seats are also part of the new high-quality standard in the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake. They are fitted as standard with a combination of ARTICO man-made leather and three-dimensionally embossed fabric in black. They are also optionally available in trendy sage grey. The Progressive equipment line offers three interior colours: black, macchiato beige and sage grey. In the AMG Line, the standard seat upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/microfibre MICROCUT is now also available in bahia brown. A total of five upholstery colours are available in the AMG Line: black, bahia brown, sage grey, titanium grey pearl/black and, for the first time, red pepper/black.
The fabric cover of the comfort seat consists of 100% recycled materials. In the ARTICO/MICROCUT seat cover, this proportion is 65% in the seat mirror and 85% in the bottom fabric. The use of recycled materials is an important measure on the way to CO2 neutrality. As early as the end of this decade, Mercedes-Benz aims to at least halve the CO2 emissions per passenger car in the new vehicle fleet over the entire life cycle compared to 2020. From 2039 onwards, the passenger car and van fleet aims to be CO2-neutral with offsets across the entire automotive value chain.
Significantly upgraded equipment and simplified offer logic
Mercedes-Benz has significantly upgraded the standard equipment and tailored the offer logic even more precisely to specific customer wishes. For example, the basic equipment of the two new CLA models already includes Highbeam Assist, a reversing camera and the USB package in addition to the leather steering wheel and LED front headlamps. From vehicles equipped with the Progressive trim line onwards, customers also receive the Parking Package and Mirror Package as well as the EASY-PACK tailgate for the CLA Shooting Brake.
Other functional equipment is bundled into packages based on real customer behaviour. In terms of design scopes such as colours, upholstery, trims and wheels, customers can configure vehicles as individually as possible.
Latest generation MBUX and Burmester® sound system with Dolby Atmos
The CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake feature the latest generation of MBUX – with newly designed display styles: “Classic” provides all relevant driver information, “Sporty” impresses with the dynamic rev counter and “Discreet” is limited to the most essential items. Together with the three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) and seven colour worlds, the instrument cluster and central display can be individualised according to the driver’s wishes and the situation. The central display offers all previous functions such as navigation, media, phone, vehicle, etc. and can be operated conveniently as a touchscreen.
The revised telematics system impresses with a new design and improved performance. A new feature is connectivity with smartphones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Wireless. For further connectivity, the CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake have an additional USB-C port and increased USB charging capacity. All USB ports are now illuminated.
With the activation of online services in the Mercedes me app[1], the Hey Mercedes voice assistant becomes even more capable of dialogue and learning. Certain actions can also be triggered without saying ”Hey Mercedes”. The MBUX voice assistant can also explain vehicle functions. Initially available in Germany, the new audio travel guide “Tourguide” adds an exciting feature to travel information as part of the “MBUX Voice Assistant” from Mercedes me. When the “Hey Mercedes, start Tourguide” voice command is given, the MBUX infotainment system reads out interesting facts about places of interest along the route. The system responds to the approximately 3,400 brown informational signs along the German motorways.
In conjunction with the latest MBUX generation, the optional Burmester® surround sound system now features the immersive Dolby Atmos audio experience. It gives music more space, clarity and depth. Dolby Atmos allows discrete audio elements or objects to be placed in a three-dimensional sound field and adapted to any playback environment.
The new CLA models also improve in terms of safety assistance. With the upgraded Driver Assistance Package, for example, Lane Keeping Assist is controlled much more comfortably by the active steering control. The next generation of the Parking Package supports longitudinal parking and offers 360-degree visualisation for camera-assisted parking using 3D images.
Electrified and powerful drives
The petrol engines are electrified throughout and include four-cylinder units with a 7- or 8-speed DCT automatic transmission as standard. As mild hybrids, the engines are equipped with an additional 48-volt on‑board power supply that supports agility at start-up with 10 kW more power. The new belt-driven starter‑generator noticeably improves customer comfort and experience. For example, it enables low‑vibration and low-noise engine starting as well as coasting with the combustion engine switched off. During braking and acceleration, the starter-generator recuperates and thus supplies the 12-volt on-board network and the 48-volt battery with electrical energy. This can support the combustion engine during acceleration. The new ECO Score 3.0 motivates drivers to adopt fuel-saving behaviour through a differentiated evaluation of the various driving phases.
More power for plug-in hybrids
Another big step is taken by the new CLA Coupé and CLA Shooting Brake models with plug-in hybrid drive (Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 e Coupé: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 1.1‑0.8 l/100 km, electricity consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 16.9-14.9 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 24-18 g/km; Mercedes‑Benz CLA 250 e Shooting Brake: fuel consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 1.1‑0.8 l/100 km, electricity consumption combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 17.2-15.1 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions combined, weighted (WLTP preliminary): 26-19 g/km)[2]. The improved high-voltage battery offers a higher usable energy content, resulting in greater electric range. The power of the electric motor has increased by 5 kW and now reaches a powertrain output of 80 kW. For charging, three options are still available: in addition to the 3.7 kW standard, the battery can now also be charged with alternating current and up to 11 kW instead of the previous 7.4 kW. The new CLA models also continue to offer the option of charging the battery with direct current, and up to 22 kW. A DC charge from 10% to 80% takes around 25 minutes[3], providing a versatile charging experience suitable for everyday use.
Combined CO2 emissions, weighted (WLTP provisional)
g/km
24-18
26-19
Combined power consumption, weighted (WLTP provisional)
kWh/100 km
16.9-14.9
17.2-15.1
Electric range (EAER) (WLTP provisional)
km
71-82
68-80
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
7.6
7.7
Top speed
km/h
229
226
CLA 180 Coupé
CLA 200 Coupé
CLA 220 4MATIC Coupé
CLA 250 4MATIC Coupé
Displacement
cc
1,332
1,332
1,991
1,991
Rated output
kW/hp
100/136
120/163
140/190
165/224
at
rpm
5,500
5,500
5,500
5,500
Add. output (boost effect)
kW/hp
10/14
10/14
10/14
10/14
Rated torque
Nm
230
270
300
350
Combined fuel consumption (WLTP provisional)
l/100 km
6.5-5.9
6.5-5.9
7.6-6.9
7.5-6.9
Combined CO2 emissions (WLTP provisional)
g/km
147-133
147-133
172-156
172-156
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
9.4
8.4
7.3
6.4
Top speed
km/h
216
229
237
250
CLA 180 d Coupé
CLA 200 d Coupé
CLA 220 d Coupé
Displacement
cc
1,950
1,950
1,950
Rated output
kW/hp
85/116
110/150
140/190
at
rpm
3,400
3,400
3,800
Rated torque
Nm
280
320
400
Combined fuel consumption (WLTP provisional)
l/100 km
5.5-5.1
5.4-4.9
5.5-5.0
Combined CO2 emissions (WLTP provisional)
g/km
145-133
142-129
143-130
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
10.0
8.5
7.3
Top speed
km/h
205
226
244
CLA 180 Shooting Brake
CLA 200 Shooting Brake
CLA 250 4MATIC Shooting Brake
Displacement
cc
1,332
1,332
1,991
Rated output
kW/hp
100/136
120/163
165/224
at
rpm
5,500
5,500
5,500
Add. output (boost effect)
kW/hp
10/14
10/14
10/14
Rated torque
Nm
230
270
350
Combined fuel consumption (WLTP provisional)
l/100 km
6.6-6.0
6.6-6.0
7.8-7.0
Combined CO2 emissions (WLTP provisional)
g/km
151-136
151-136
176-160
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
9.6
8.6
6.5
Top speed
km/h
215
226
250
CLA 180 d Shooting Brake
CLA 200 d Shooting Brake
CLA 220 d Shooting Brake
Displacement
cc
1,950
1,950
1,950
Rated output
kW/hp
85/116
110/150
140/190
at
rpm
3,400
3,400
3,800
Rated torque
Nm
280
320
400
Combined fuel consumption (WLTP provisional)
l/100 km
5.7-5.2
5.6-5.0
5.6-5.1
Combined CO2 emissions (WLTP provisional)
g/km
149-135
147-132
147-133
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
10.1
8.6
7.4
Top speed
km/h
203
221
237
[1]To use the Mercedes me connect services, you must create a Mercedes me ID and accept the Terms of Use for the Mercedes me connect services. The services shown and their availability and functionalities depend in particular on the vehicle model, year of manufacture, selected special equipment and country. [2] Data on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power consumption and range are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible. [3] Supply voltage 400 V, current at least 300 A [4] Data on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power consumption and range are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
Update for CLA and CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG
Newly designed headlights and taillights
CLA 35 4MATIC with AMG-specific radiator grille
AMG Performance steering wheel as standard
Belt-driven starter-generator and 48-volt electrical system for CLA 35 4MATIC
AMG Street Style Edition for CLA 45 S 4MATIC+
Numerous updates make the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake from Mercedes-AMG even more desirable. The new exterior design is particularly striking on the CLA 35 4MATIC Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 8.5-8.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 193-185 g/km)[5] and CLA 35 4MATIC Shooting Brake (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 8.7-8.3 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 197-189 g/km)5. Both entry-level models have been given an AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats, a reshaped front apron and a round badge with the AMG emblem that reinforces the brand affiliation. The revised design of the inside of the headlights with LED or MULTIBEAM LED technology and the LED taillights also characterise the two top models CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 9.0-8.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 205-196 g/km)5 and CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Shooting Brake (WLTP preliminary values: fuel consumption combined: 9.2-8.8 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 209-201 g/km)5.
New alloy wheels for all models
There are three new light-alloy wheels for the 35 models: standard 10-spoke, 18-inch wheels in black with high-gloss turned surfaces and optional 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange. New wheels for the two 45 S versions include standard 19-inch wheels with a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with high-gloss turned surfaces or optional 19-inch wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a high-gloss turned rim flange.
Fresh colours for the seat covers
In the interior, those interested will discover new upholstery covers for the standard sports seats or the optional AMG Performance seats. The combination of ARTICO man-made leather with MICROCUT microfibre can also be ordered in bahia brown. Sage grey/black is the new colour for ARTICO man-made leather. And red pepper/black is available for the first time for the leather seat covers. For the trim elements, open-pore lime wood in brown completes the optional selection.
The Mercedes-AMG CLA models offer the new AMG Performance steering wheel with double-spoke design and seamlessly integrated buttons as standard. The AMG steering wheel buttons impress with brilliant displays and intuitive operating logic. These allow for important driving functions and all drive programmes to be controlled without taking your hands off the steering wheel.
The new Mercedes-AMG CLA models also benefit from the latest MBUX generation: more performance and the AMG-specific screen design make the brand experience tangible.
35 models technically upgraded
The 35 models are equipped with a 48-volt electrical system and a belt-driven starter-generator. The second-generation starter-generator acts as a mild hybrid, providing a temporary power boost of 10 kW (14 hp) as well as functions such as coasting and recuperation for greater efficiency. The 48-volt technology also increases comfort, as the transitions of the start-stop and coasting functions are almost imperceptible. The powerful and agile 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine produces 225 kW (306 hp), which is variably distributed to all four wheels via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The sporty performance (acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds) is combined with a wide range of driving experiences – from very sporty to long-distance comfort. The new front radiator improves temperature management at the limit.
AMG Street Style Edition for the 45 models
A special limited edition is available for the CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé and Shooting Brake: the AMG Street Style Edition. With its MANUFAKTUR mountain grey magno paintwork and side foiling with the AMG logo and AMG pattern in the chequered-flag design, it emphasises the sporty appearance. The same applies to the colour accents in fluorescent orange. The edition rolls on 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-twin-spoke design in matte black with a gloss-turned rim flange. Optionally, customers can order the Street Style Edition with 19-inch AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design, painted matte black and with a high-sheen turned rim flange. The red-painted brake callipers form an attractive contrast to both wheels. Other exterior elements include the AMG Aerodynamics package, the AMG Night package I and II and the AMG fuel-filler cap.
The interior of the AMG Street Style Edition also has a distinctive design: The AMG Performance seat in black MICROCUT microfibre is adorned with seams and highlights in bright orange. The “CLA 45 S” label, also in orange, carries the brand emblem over to the interior. The AMG Performance steering wheel in MICROCUT leather/microfibre and the AMG trim elements in aluminium (with the same pattern as the exterior foiling) add further accents to the interior. Attention to detail is also demonstrated by the instrument panel with contrasting orange stitching and the AMG door-sill trims with “AMG” lettering, a black interchangeable cover and Edition-specific lighting in red. AMG floor mats with “Street Style Edition” lettering and orange stitching complete the high-quality interior design.
With an output of 310 kW (421 hp), the Coupé and Shooting Brake are powerfully motorised. The compact sports cars accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds. The top speed is limited to 270 km/h. In addition to the pure performance figures, the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine impresses with its spontaneous response. The fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL makes a significant contribution to the dynamic driving experience. The rear-axle transmission contains two electronically controlled multi-plate clutches, each of which is connected to a driveshaft on the rear axle. This allows the drive power to be distributed variably not only between the front and rear axles, but also wheel-selectively between the left and right rear wheels.
The data at a glance
Mercedes-AMGCLA 35 4MATIC
Mercedes-AMGCLA 45 S 4MATIC+
Engine
2.0-litre inline four with exhaust-gas turbocharger
2.0-litre inline four with twin-scroll exhaust turbocharger mounted on roller bearings
Displacement
cc
1,991
1,991
Rated output
kW/hp
225/306
310/421
at
rpm
5,800
6,750
Rated torque
Nm
400
500
at
rpm
3,000-4,000
5,000-5,250
Drive
AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
Fuel consumption combined (WLTP provisional)[6]
l/100 km
8.5-8.1
9.0-8.7
CO2 emissions combined (WLTP provisional)5
g/km
193-185
205-196
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
4.9
4.1
Top speed
km/h
250
270
Mercedes-AMGCLA 35 4MATIC Shooting Brake
Mercedes-AMGCLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Shooting Brake
Engine
2.0-litre inline four with exhaust-gas turbocharger
2.0-litre inline four with twin-scroll exhaust turbocharger mounted on roller bearings
Displacement
cm3
1,991
1,991
Rated output
kW/PS
225/306
310/421
at
1/min
5,800
6,750
Rated torque
Nm
400
500
at
1/min
3,000-4,000
5,000-5,250
Drive
AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel drive
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive with AMG TORQUE CONTROL
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission
Fuel consumption combined (WLTP provisional)5
l/100 km
8.7-8.3
9.2-8.8
CO2 emissions combined (WLTP provisional)5
g/km
197-189
209-201
Acceleration 0-100 km/h
s
4.9
4.1
Top speed
km/h
250
270
[5]Data on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible. [6] Data on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are provisional and have been determined internally in accordance with the ”WLTP test procedure” certification method. To date, there are neither confirmed values from an officially recognised testing organisation nor an EC type approval nor a certificate of conformity with official values. Differences between the stated figures and the official figures are possible.
Great success for Jacky Ickx and Claude Brasseur on the adventure through the desert
Engine and aerodynamics are optimised for the run over 12,000 kilometres and 20 days
Mercedes-Benz also wins in the truck classification
40 years ago, Mercedes-Benz triumphed in the world’s toughest rally: racing driver Jacky Ickx and his co-driver, actor Claude Brasseur, won the 1983 Paris–Dakar Rally with the Mercedes-Benz 280 GE. The project was managed by Mercedes-Benz France. From Germany, engineers of the company assisted with the engine and aerodynamics of the off-road vehicle.
At that time, the Paris–Dakar Rally had great worldwide appeal. It was the fifth time it took place. Several hundred adventurers set off from the French metropolis to the capital of Senegal in 1978 for the first time. The start took place early in the morning of 1 January 1983 on the Place de la Concorde in Paris. After around 20 extremely demanding daily stages through deserts such as the Ténéré in the south of the Sahara and in the north of Niger, the heavily thinned out field of participants reached the city of Dakar on the Atlantic coast. The participants in the car, truck and motorbike classifications covered between 10,000 and 12,000 kilometres to reach the finish.
Since its early years, the “Paris–Dakar” has attracted renowned car manufacturers to compete in the African desert. Former car and motorbike racer Thierry Sabine founded and organised the spectacular adventure. In January 1986, he was killed in a helicopter crash. The event continues to this day; it is now called the “Dakar Rally” and currently takes place in the desert regions of Saudi Arabia. It was previously held in South America from 2009 to 2019.
The engine of the Mercedes-Benz 280 GE “Paris–Dakar”
Mercedes-Benz France led the preparation of the winning Mercedes-Benz 280 GE of the 460 model series. Customer service manager Gunter Latour maintained good contacts with Mercedes-Benz in Untertürkheim. Georg Berkmann, a graduate engineer whose main area of responsibility was the combustion processes of passenger car engines in commercial vehicles, was assigned to the project. For the tough rally use of the 280 GE, he reworked the twin-cam six-cylinder M 110 engine. As early as 1977, a Mercedes-Benz 280 E from the 123 model series won what was probably the longest rally in motorsport history with this sporty power unit: Andrew Cowan, Colin Malkin and Mike Broad took first place in the London–Sydney rally marathon after more than six weeks and around 30,000 kilometres.
Georg Berkmann chose the standard version of the M 110 with 136 kW (185 hp) as the basis. He wanted to tease out even more power for the Paris–Dakar Rally in 1982 and 1983. By comparison, the M 110 in the Mercedes-Benz 280 GE launched in 1979 developed 115 kW (156 hp). The engineer resorted to camshafts originally intended for the performance upgrade of the 280 SL (R 107). Thus, the “Paris–Dakar” engine achieved around 145 kW (197 hp). One of the unusual solutions was the hydraulic pump from the 123 model series estate for level control: in the motorsport G model, it was used to cool the manual transmission.
The main problems when operating in the deserts of the African continent are extreme temperatures, dust and poor fuel quality. First, Berkmann relocated the engine’s air intake to the interior. There, temperatures are usually lower and the dust content in the air is less. He chose a simple but effective remedy for the poor quality of the petrol. Four decades later, he recounts: “I put yellow and red markings on the ignition distributor. So drivers could quickly adjust the ignition timing if the engine knocked due to poor fuel quality.” To make this quick and avoid having to search for the right tool, the resourceful engineer attached a four-millimetre Allen key to a chain near the ignition distributor. Jacky Ickx was also thorough. In his preparation, he labelled each relay in order to quickly track down defects.
Aerodynamics optimised
With the upgraded engine, the 280 GE reached a top speed of 175 km/h. That was 25 km/h faster than the standard variant. After the previous year’s experience, however, Berkmann was sure that this pace would not be enough for the victory they were aiming for in 1983: in 1982, the Mercedes-Benz 280 GEs finished third (Jean-Pierre Jaussaud/Michel Brière) and fifth (Jacky Ickx/Claude Brasseur) in the Paris–Dakar Rally. But radically increasing engine power was out of the question for reliability reasons. Berkmann turned to fellow engineer Rüdiger Faul, who had developed the aerodynamics of various racing sports cars and the C 111-IV. This record-breaking car reached more than 400 km/h during world record runs in Nardò in 1979.
To optimise the aerodynamics of the 280 GE, Faul took a pragmatic approach. “I got myself some 70-millimetre-diameter plastic sewage pipes in the construction department of the Sindelfingen plant,” he describes in retrospect. He attached pipe segments around the windscreen and in this way significantly optimised the flow pattern in this area. At the rear, Faul chose striking extensions of the roof and the rear side walls. Within the company, this significant change to the body line was given the name “little bus shelter”. The measures drastically optimised air resistance. Measurements in the Untertürkheim wind tunnel showed that the cd value drops from the original 0.52 to 0.41 – that is a reduction of 20.5 per cent. Georg Berkmann sums up: “Due to the aerodynamic changes, the top speed increased by a good 20 km/h to almost 200 km/h, while fuel consumption was five litres per 100 kilometres lower.”
Jacky Ickx and Claude Brasseur
Born in Brussels on 1 January 1945, Jacky Ickx was one of the best racing drivers from the late 1960s to the end of the 1980s. Between 1966 and 1979, he won eight Grands Prix in Formula One and was the runner-up in 1970. He won the 24 Hours of Le Mans six times between 1969 and 1982. In the Paris–Dakar Rally, in addition to his victory in 1983, the Belgian finished fifth with the Mercedes-Benz 280 GE the previous year and second in 1986. “In 1982, we discovered the 280 GE. You can push it to the limit and trust its engineering without reservation – that’s an asset for the Paris–Dakar Rally,” explained Ickx in an interview shortly after his 1983 victory. In addition, he got on very well with his co-pilot Claude Brasseur. “We did not start out simply as colleagues, but as accomplices. That was certainly fundamental.” Brasseur, who died in 2020, was one of the most famous French movie and TV actors at the time.
The 1983 Paris–Dakar Rally
Mercedes-Benz France’s involvement in the Paris–Dakar Rally bore fruit with third and fifth places already in 1982. Among the first ten vehicles to cross the finish line were two more 280 GEs and a Mercedes-Benz prototype. In 1983, 193 cars, buggies and trucks as well as 111 motorbikes raced the 12,000 kilometres from France via Algeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Mali and Mauritania to Senegal. The most important navigation aid was the compass. The most prominent starters of the field, Jacky Ickx and Claude Brasseur, took the lead early with the 280 GE. Before the stage finish in Agadez (Niger), Ickx noticed a severe loss of power in his engine. He received the engine of a teammate. The exchange of complete major assemblies with another vehicle in competition is permitted. After that, Ickx returned to his usual fast pace.
Many participants dropped out because of the exertions of this rally with 20 daily stages of 300 to 1,000 kilometres: technical equipment failed; accidents or crashes involving the motorcyclists decimated the field. Some gave up out of sheer exhaustion – or because after many hours of wandering through the desert they no longer reached the stage finish in time. Only 61 cars and trucks and 28 motorbikes made it to the finish line. Ickx and Brasseur were the exhausted but celebrated winners on the Dakar beach. Further Mercedes-Benz G models finished in fifth, sixth and eighth place. The brand even celebrated a double victory: Georges Groine, Thierry de Saulieu and Bernard Malfériol reached Dakar as the best truck with a Mercedes-Benz 1936 AK all-wheel drive truck (261 kW/355 hp).
Heads of states and leaders from around the world is set to convene at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2023 from today, January 16 to January 20, 2023 in Davos, Switzerland.
The 2023 edition will host the 20th year of its Open Forum with topics of discussion to include pressing issues on climate, nature and people.
During the Forum, Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Group will speak at a panel titled ‘Real Estate at a Turning Point’. The panel will focus on global real estate and how despite disruptions to the industry such as rising interest rates, changing lifestyle demand drivers, and new and innovative ownership structures like fractionalisation, it remains core allocation for most investment portfolios.
“I have had the pleasure to attend the World Economic Forum for over a decade now. The Forum has played a vital role in helping policymakers and change activists to work on movements and concerns that positively benefit global citizens. I am honoured to be here for the 2023 edition to represent DAMAC and Dubai on this prestigious platform, and am confident to once again take back home valuable inputs and ideas from leadership around the world,” says Sajwani.
The session will be divided into three sections – near and medium-term outlooks, opportunities and changes across both the capital markets and the real world/real economy and what those changes imply in terms of broader industry ambitions related to issues like building decarbonisation, housing affordability, technology, equitable urbanisation, etc.
Under the theme, Cooperation in a Fragmented World, WEF 2023 aims to call on world leaders to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient world.
The 2023 agenda will include five thematic programmes – Addressing the Current Energy and Food Crises in the context of a New System for Energy, Climate and Nature; Addressing the Current High Inflation, Low High Debt Economy in the context of a New System for Investment, Trade and Infrastructure; Addressing the Current Industry Headwinds in the context of a New System for Harnessing Frontier Technologies for Private Sector Innovation and Resilience; Addressing the Current Social Vulnerabilities in the context of a New System for Work, Skills and Care and Addressing the Current Geopolitical Risks in the context of a New System for Dialogue and Cooperation in a Multipolar World.
• Property sales for Q3 2022 (July to September) have increased by 12% compared to Q3 2021. • Emaar’s sales backlog has increased to AED 37.186 billion (US$ 10.124 billion), to be recognised as revenue in the coming years.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates; November 14, 2022: Emaar Development PJSC (DFM: EMAARDEV), the UAE build-to-sell property development business, majority-owned by Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM: EMAAR), achieved its highest-ever property sales during the first nine months (January to September) of 2022, maintaining record-breaking momentum built in the first half of the year. Property sales for the first nine months of 2022 is increased by 11% to AED 23.167 billion (US$ 6.307 billion) compared to AED 20.943 billion (US$ 5.702 billion) in the first nine months of 2021 and property sales for Q3 2022 (July to September) increased by 12% to AED 7.951 billion (US$ 2.165 billion) compared to Q3 2021.
During the first nine months of 2022, Emaar Development successfully launched twenty projects in various master plans, such as Talia and Orania in The Valley, Elie Saab II and Bliss 2 in Arabian Ranches III, Rosewater, Lotus, Creek Palace, Orchid, Creek Crescent and Island Park in Dubai Creek Harbour, St. Regis in Downtown Dubai, Address The Bay and Beachgate by Address in Emaar Beachfront, Greenview 3 in Emaar South, Park Field, Lime Garden, Hills Park and Address Hillcrest in Dubai Hills Estate and Seagate in Rashid Yachts & Marina.
Performance Highlights
In the first nine months of 2022 (January to September), Emaar Development reported EBITDA in line with last year and achieved 19% growth in net profit compared to the first nine months of 2021.
Due to this exceptional performance, Emaar now has a robust sales backlog of AED 37.186 billion (US$ 10.124 billion), which will be recognised as revenue in the coming years.
“Following a record-breaking first half of 2022, we have maintained momentum and growth by delivering another excellent set of sales figures in Q3. Across the board in our portfolio of retail, hospitality and entertainment, we are seeing demand for the exceptional communities and amenities we deliver. Strategically, Emaar is attuned to the market and has a reputation for delivering developments of excellent standards which generates exceptional consumer confidence. This, aligned with a strong ongoing project launch list has enabled Emaar to maintain an upward trajectory for sales and growth,” an Emaar spokesperson said.
Dubai continues to lead the way as a business hub for trade, financial services, logistics, travel and hospitality, with emerging sectors witnessing growth, such as technology, green energy, healthcare and education. The region attracts a community of skilled professionals, and investors continue to invest in the region’s steadfast growth potential, reflective of Emaar’s sales records for Q3 2022.
Delivery update
Emaar Development has delivered over 4,700 residential units during the first nine months of 2022 across prime locations, including Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai Creek Harbour, Downtown Dubai, Emaar Beachfront, Arabian Ranches and Emaar South. As of September 2022, Emaar has delivered more than 56,700 residential units, with over 26,200 residences currently under development in the UAE.
Nakheel, the world-leading master developer, has appointed GINCO General Contracting and Bhatia General Contracting to undertake the construction works of its Tilal Al Furjan project.
GINCO General Contracting will work on the first phase of the project, comprising 235 units, while Bhatia General Contracting will work on second phase, comprising 246 units.
GINCO General Contracting brings to the project over 35 years of experience, specialising in construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of various commercial, industrial, residential and institutional establishments. Bhatia General Contracting has delivered over 250 projects over four decades, earning its reputation as a leading civil contractor since its establishment in 1975.
Located within the Al Furjan master community, Tilal Al Furjan will be a gated community with an ocean of lush, green landscaping and expansive outdoor spaces. A collection of four- and five-bedroom villas, Tilal Al Furjan will offer residents an elevated lifestyle, stylish homes and a host of curated amenities for families.
Homes are connected by cycle paths and walk-ways leading to shared community spaces, encouraging community integration. Residents will benefit from large pools with kids’ pools, tennis and basketball courts, shaded play areas, family picnic areas and outdoor barbeque areas.
The project has sold out, illustrating the strong demand for Nakheel’s developments, and handover of the project is expected by end of 2024.
Emaar Properties PJSC (DFM: EMAAR) announced today it would fully acquire Dubai Creek Harbour, the major development located along the historic Dubai Creek waterfront, from Dubai Holding for a consideration of AED 7.5 billion to be paid equally in cash and shares of Emaar Properties PJSC, thus making Dubai Holding the second largest shareholder of Emaar.
Emaar recorded sales of AED 4.2 billion in 2021 and AED 3.6 billion sales in Dubai Creek Harbour in the first half of 2022. Dubai Creek Harbour has approximately 100 million sq. ft of future development which will provide future profit potential to Emaar.
A spokesperson of Emaar said: “The purchase agreement with Dubai Holding represents another important achievement in Emaar’s rich history as we continue to expand our strategic land bank and build sustained value for our shareholders. We are determined to support the Government’s vision for sustainable urban development in Dubai while providing a redefined experience for residents and visitors.”
A spokesperson of Dubai Holding said: “We are pleased to announce the sale of Dubai Creek Harbour to Emaar, subject to finalisation. This is a landmark transaction that benefits both parties. As joint venture partners, we have created meaningful value in Dubai Creek Harbour, and the transaction represents a significant monetisation for us. We look forward to our investment in Emaar as a reference shareholder and the diversification benefits it offers, and we are confident that Dubai Creek Harbour will continue to reach greater heights and success.”
Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, is excited to announce the opening of Snow Oman on 24 December. Be the first to experience the MENA region’s largest indoor snow park by booking your advance tickets from snowoman.com.
Set in the heart of the Mall of Oman, Snow Oman covers a sprawling area of 14,830 square metres with a “Desert Blizzard” theme – a reimagined world where Oman’s cityscapes and sand dunes are covered in real snow. The coolest must-visit destination will feature family-friendly rides such as the Mountain Thriller, Snow Bullet, Slide Winder, Cloud Climber, and Zorb Ball, unique attractions such as Cold Town Muscat, Frozen Shipwreck and Lighthouse, and a 475-square metre ice rink. Like its sister brands Ski Dubai and Ski Egypt, Snow Oman is now home to a colony of king and gentoo penguins who are provided with the best possible care in a custom-built penguinarium.
In 2005, Majid Al Futtaim pioneered a one-of-a-kind, sub-zero leisure offering in the Mall of the Emirates: Ski Dubai. The award-winning experience has been recognised as the World’s Best Indoor Ski Resort by the prestigious World Ski Awards for seven consecutive years. In 2017, Ski Egypt opened in the Mall of Egypt and set an all-new record for being the first of its kind in the African continent.
Be the first to experience Oman’s first and only indoor snow destination, Snow Oman. Book your tickets now at snowoman.com.
The achievement amplifies the Group’s ongoing commitment to cultural transformation.
• Al Ghurair Investment reiterates continued alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Al Ghurair Investment, one of the largest diversified family business groups in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has been recognised as a Top Employer in the country by the Top Employers Institute for 2023. The recognition, a first of its kind for Al Ghurair Investment, and for a family business in the region, marks a momentous achievement that amplifies the group’s ongoing commitment to driving cultural transformation.
The certification showcases Al Ghurair Investment’s dedication to transforming the world of work and exhibits this by surpassing traditional human resources practices. As part of the group’s Purpose to facilitate and empower meaningful change, Al Ghurair Investment has continued to ‘Enhance Life’ for the communities it serves and the employees that make it possible. Driven by its vision to deliver better, both outwards and within, the family business has cultivated an environment that encourages innovation, sparks curiosity, and nurtures ideas through mutual collaboration and partnership.
Commenting on the achievement, John Iossifidis, Group CEO, Al Ghurair Investment, said: “We are immensely proud to be recognised for our commitment towards cultural transformation and fostering an environment where people can thrive, and be their best selves, every day. This recognition is a culmination of our ongoing efforts to enhance the regional talent hub through engaging and encouraging our people to perform, learn, and most importantly, grow. Our working environment is people-centric, stable and fosters innovation – where every voice has an equal opportunity to be heard and our people are empowered to be part of the company’s legacy.”
Since beginning the Group-wide transformation journey two years ago, Al Ghurair Investment launched its ‘Fit For Future’ model and incorporated it into the organisation’s ‘Employee Value Proposition’ and talent strategy to engage and empower people along their career pathways. The programme, aligned with the Group’s commitment to supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8), focuses on nurturing skills and advancing career pathways across its diverse talent base.
Debra Teles, GVP – People and Culture, Al Ghurair Investment comments: “We are honoured to be recognised as a leading company in the UAE and one that our people are proud to work for. Serving our community, valuing our people for their unique skills, and providing a psychologically safe work culture are central to our purpose as an organisation. We owe our gratitude to our people across the business for this achievement, for their continued and passionate commitment to our cultural transformation, as we strive to be better, every day. We are excited to continue to put our people first as we move into the New Year!”
Commenting on the recognition, David Plink, CEO, Top Employers Institute, said: “Exceptional times bring out the best in people and organisations. And we have witnessed this in our Top Employers Certification Programme this year: exceptional performance from the certified Top Employers 2023. These employers have always shown that they care for the development and well-being of their people. By doing so, they collectively enrich the world of work. We are proud to announce and celebrate this year’s group of leading people-oriented employers: the Top Employers 2023.”
The Top Employers Institute programme certifies organisations based on the participation and results of their HR Best Practices Survey. This survey covers six HR domains consisting of 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Wellbeing and more.
Top Employers Institute is the global authority on recognising excellence in People Practices. We help accelerate these practices to enrich the world of work. Through the Top Employers Institute Certification Programme, participating companies can be validated, certified, and recognised as an employer of choice. Established over 30 years ago, Top Employers Institute has certified 2 052 organisations in 121 countries/regions. These certified Top Employers positively impact the lives of over 9.5 million employees globally.
Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping malls, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia, today announced that Ahmed Galal Ismail has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Holding.
Ahmed Galal Ismail assumes the position from Alain Bejjani, who served in the role for eight years. As the Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim – Properties, Ahmed has been responsible for Majid Al Futtaim’s malls, hotels, communities and project management operations since 2018. He previously served as CEO of Majid Al Futtaim – Ventures and VP Strategy of Majid Al Futtaim – Holding.
Following his appointment today, Ahmed Galal Ismail said: “I am committed to building on our strong, customer-focused strategy that has allowed us to deliver sustained growth. Our prudent financial discipline and strong governance mean that we are well-positioned to remain focused on sustainable value creation and creating great moments for everyone, everyday.”
Following a steady economic recovery in the retail and leisure sectors, Majid Al Futtaim reported revenue of AED18 billion for H1 2022, an increase of 15% compared to H1 2021. EBITDA rose 18% to AED 1.9 billion, a result of the company’s solid operational performance, driven by diversification efforts and a continued focus on cost efficiencies and scale. The Group continues to maintain a strong balance sheet with total assets valued at around AED 62.9 billion. Net borrowings stood at AED 11.2 billion.
