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Category: World

This section brings you news reports from around the world, covering global events, politics, economy, and more. Stay informed with the latest international updates and developments.

  • Nissan launches all new X-Trail in Japan

    Nissan launches all new X-Trail in Japan

    YOKOHAMA, Japan: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd on Wednesday launched all new X-Trail which will be in sale from July 25, 2022 in Japan.

    X-Trail went on to become a bestselling SUV and is widely viewed as an iconic Nissan. Over the years, Nissan has continued to evolve the X-Trail. The latest incarnation features leading-edge technologies, powerful performance and a level of equipment that only a genuine SUV offers.

    READ MORE: Pakistan’s import of CBU motor cars surges by 21% in FY22

    The fourth-generation X-Trail maintains the “tough gear” concept from the first-generation model with an even greater focus on quality. The second-generation e-POWER electric powertrain system and e-4ORCE electric-drive all-wheel control technology raise the bar for its class. As an authentic SUV that combines tradition and innovation, the all-new X-Trail provides excitement in a wide range of scenarios, ranging from daily use to exciting outdoor adventures.

    Ashwani Gupta, Nissan’s chief operating officer said, “As announced in Nissan Ambition 2030, Nissan aims to drive towards a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world through our products and services”.

    READ MORE: Prices of KIA Motors raised up to 19.3% amid rupee devaluation

    “With this in mind, we are electrifying major models, with the X-Trail for the Japan market becoming a dedicated e-POWER model with e-4ORCE an option. The new X-Trail will play an important role in leading our electrification” he said. 

    e-POWER and VC-Turbo engine provide powerful yet quiet acceleration
    The all-new X-Trail features a completely redesigned platform that reduces body weight while increasing rigidity. A high level of cabin quietness has been achieved by insulating against road and powertrain noise.

    READ MORE: Rolls-Royce, Hyundai signs pact to lead advanced air mobility market

    The X-Trail comes equipped with the second-generation e-POWER system, which features improved power, smoothness and quietness. The system’s gasoline engine, the world’s first mass-produced variable compression ratio engine, serves as a generator to produce electricity. Specifically tuned for the e-POWER system, the VC-Turbo engine significantly improves output even at low revs. The combination of e-POWER and the VC-Turbo engine provides a powerful driving experience and unparalleled quietness, while maintaining high fuel efficiency.

    e-Pedal Step reduces the need to apply the brakes by providing deceleration when the accelerator pedal is released. The function provides increased peace of mind and smoother driving on city roads, slippery surfaces and downhill slopes.

    READ MORE: Global car manufacturers agree to introduce electric mini-commercial vans

    e-4ORCE changes the view of 4WD
    The 4WD X-Trail is equipped with e-4ORCE, which integrates Nissan’s electric propulsion and 4WD control technologies with its chassis-control technology for a huge leap in acceleration, cornering and braking performance. e-4ORCE raises driving performance and confidence on a wide variety of road surfaces, while providing a supremely comfortable onboard experience for all occupants.

    e-4ORCE delivers:

    • Intuitive driving: Instantly assessing the road surface and vehicle condition, e-4ORCE precisely controls the driving force and braking of the front and rear twin electric motors to maximize tire frictional force. This ensures smooth cornering and boosts driving confidence.
    • Confidence on all kinds of road surfaces: By always ensuring optimal traction, e-4ORCE minimizes wheel slippage and enables smooth starting and driving, even in slippery conditions.
    • Ride comfort for all: When decelerating, the front and rear motors control regenerative balance to stabilize the vehicle’s movement, ensuring a smooth ride for driver and passengers alike.
    • Powerful, smooth output: The high-output motors respond instantly to accelerator pedal pressure, delivering powerful yet smooth acceleration that makes merging onto expressways easy. 

    READ MORE: Pakistan car sales surge 54 per cent in FY22

    Advanced technologies
    The all-new X-Trail features a wide range of safety technologies that support driving in a variety of conditions.

    • Nissan Safety Assist 360 utilizes cameras, radar and sonar to constantly monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and can take safety steps if necessary.
    • An SOS call service can provide assistance in the event of an emergency.
    • An adaptive LED headlight system enables use of the high beam in conjunction with the low beam to illuminate surrounding areas even when there are preceding or oncoming vehicles.
    • Navi-link has been added to ProPILOT, Nissan’s autonomous drive technology designed for highway use in single-lane traffic. ProPILOT with Navi-link reduces the frequency of driver operations by supporting vehicle speed changes in line with posted speed limits, as well as deceleration support for curves.
    • ProPILOT Park controls the steering, accelerator, brakes, gear shift and the parking brake for precise, safe parking in a wide variety of situations.

    Sturdiness and premium quality

    • The all-new X-Trail’s exterior raises the bar for SUVs by combining the “tough gear” legacy of the first-generation with even higher levels of quality. The headlamps have a two-layer structure, with the position lamps and turn lamps at the top and the main lamps below. The boomerang-shaped rear combination lamps use a delicate faceted pattern that conveys exquisite workmanship.
    • The interior design gives a feeling of both toughness and premium quality. The center console has a bridge structure that includes a large cup holder and storage space. The console lid also functions as an armrest. Roll-down sunshades are installed on the rear windows to enhance interior comfort.
    • The lineup features 12 body colors, including five two-tone options and Cardinal Red, which is inspired by the deep crimson hues of a rose. Four seat materials are available: black fabric, premium tan Nappa leather, Nissan’s exclusively developed Tailor Fit™ and Cell-Cloth®, a water-repellant material that’s ideal for people who enjoy outdoor activities like skiing and marine sports.

    User-friendly features

    • The 12.3-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display has two display modes. The 12.3-inch NissanConnect navigation system in the center display has a voice recognition function that enables operation using everyday language and Amazon Alexa*3 for greater convenience. The large 10.8-inch head-up display allows the driver to see information while watching the road.
    • The luggage space is best-in-class and its large opening makes it easy to load and unload luggage.
    • The Bose Premium Sound System is tuned exclusively for the X-Trail and provides a premium sound experience.
    • The 100V AC power source has a maximum output of 1500W and can be used as an emergency power source.
  • Rolls-Royce, Hyundai signs pact to lead advanced air mobility market

    Rolls-Royce, Hyundai signs pact to lead advanced air mobility market

    FARNBOROUGH: Rolls-Royce and Hyundai Motor Group on July 18, 2022 signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on bringing all-electric propulsion and hydrogen fuel cell technology to the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market.

    The partnership will leverage Rolls-Royce’s aviation and certification capabilities and Hyundai Motor Group’s hydrogen fuel cell technologies and industrialization capability. Both companies share a vision of leading the way in the AAM market delivering battery-electric and fuel cell electric solutions to the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and Regional Air Mobility (RAM) markets and advancing sustainable aviation.

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Rolls-Royce and Hyundai Motor Group includes five strategic aims:

    • Collaborating on the technology development and requirements of power and propulsion systems for Hyundai’s Advanced Air Mobility Division.

    • Collaborating on the industrialization of Rolls-Royce power and propulsion systems for the Advanced Air Mobility market.

    • Development of electric propulsion systems based upon hydrogen fuel cells as an energy source for Hyundai’s RAM platforms.

    • Collaborating to bring to market a joint fuel-cell electric propulsion system to the wider AAM market.

    • Delivering a joint fuel-cell electric aircraft demonstration by 2025.

    Supernal (the Company) revealed its initial eVTOL vehicle cabin concept at Farnborough International Airshow, providing the first look at how Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is integrating automotive capabilities to develop the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market.

    Supernal partnered with the Group’s design studios to create the cabin concept as the Company works to certify its eVTOL vehicle for commercial use in the United States starting in 2028 – and in the E.U. and U.K. shortly after. Beyond the vehicle, Supernal is collaborating with external partners and the Group’s more than 50 affiliates – which span automobiles, automotive parts, construction, robotics and autonomous driving – to responsibly co-create the expansive AAM value chain.

    “In order for Advanced Air Mobility to become a wide-spread mode of transportation, every detail – from the passenger experience to regulations and infrastructure – needs to be addressed from the start and work in lockstep with one another,” said Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal.

    “Leveraging Hyundai Motor Group’s mobility capabilities, Supernal is investing time and resources upfront to ensure the industry can scale to the masses in the coming decades and reach its exciting potential.” He added.

    Harnessing Automotive Design

    Supernal’s five-seat cabin concept provides clues to how the Company is harnessing automotive design processes and materials – while meeting commercial aviation’s highest safety standards – to optimize the AAM passenger experience and price-point. The design embodies biomimicry philosophy – a butterfly in this case – and the Company’s pillars of safety above all, human-centered design and environmental responsibility.

    “Supernal is partnering with Hyundai Motor Group’s top automotive designers to develop our eVTOL vehicle for manufacturability and wide-spread public acceptance,” Shin added. “We are taking the time to create a safe, light-weight commercial eVTOL that provides our future passengers with the security and comfort they find in their own cars.”

    The team of engineers and designers utilized the automotive industry’s reductive design approach to create the light-weight interior cabin, which is made of forged carbon fiber. Ergonomically contoured seats offer a cocoon-like environment for passengers. Deployable seat consoles mimic automobile center consoles and provide a charging station and stowage compartment for personal items. Grab handles built into the cabin doors and seatbacks assist with ingress and egress. A combination of lighting – including overhead lights inspired by automobile sunroofs – adjusts with the various stages of flight to emulate a “light therapy” effect. The cabin layout draws on automotive space innovation with a minimized bulkhead, which allows for generous headroom and package functionalities.

    With sustainability as a priority, the cabin concept incorporates materials such as advanced recyclable carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic, durable plant-based leather, recycled plastic fabric and responsibly sourced woods. The seat frame also utilizes excess raw material from the airframe manufacturing process.

    “The Supernal eVTOL vehicle draws on the competence of the Hyundai Motor Group and the skillset of experienced automotive designers, which allowed us to develop a new air mobility concept that is not only safe and rational but also highly emotional,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Hyundai Motor Group.

    Developing Air Mobility Beyond Urban Markets

    The Group is leveraging its expansive mobility and mobility-enabling capabilities to develop a family of electric air vehicles, as well as the surrounding value chain.

    Complementing U.S.-based Supernal’s battery-powered eVTOL vehicle designed for intra-city passenger journeys starting in 2028, the Group’s Korea-based division (the Division) focused on Regional Air Mobility is developing a hydrogen-powered mid-sized vehicle for regional – city-to-city – cargo and passenger journeys. The Division plans to launch service of its hydrogen vehicle in the 2030s.

    Supernal and the Division are partnering with the Group’s manufacturing innovation teams across the globe to create a robust high-rate, high-quality AAM manufacturing process that will produce electric air vehicles at scale – at an increasingly affordable price-point – over the coming decades.

    “Hyundai Motor Group is working to leverage synergies between automotive’s high-rate manufacturing capabilities and aerospace’s high certification standards to build the foundation for everyday use of passenger and cargo air vehicles,” Shin said.

    The signing ceremony took place at Supernal’s booth at Farnborough Airshow and was attended by Warren East, CEO of Rolls-Royce, Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology and Strategy Officer and Rob Watson, President of Rolls-Royce Electrical as well as Euisun Chung, Executive Chair of Hyundai Motor Group, Jaiwon Shin, President and Head of AAM Division of Hyundai Motor Group, and Jaeyong Song, Vice President of AAM Division of Hyundai Motor Group.

    Jaiwon Shin, President of Hyundai Motor Group, said: “We are pleased to partner with Rolls-Royce to draw upon their aviation and certification expertise to accelerate the development of hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion systems. Hyundai has successfully delivered hydrogen fuel cell systems to the global automotive market and is now exploring the feasibility of electric and hydrogen propulsion technologies for aerospace integration. We believe this to be the key technology to support the global aviation industry’s goal to fly net zero carbon by 2050.”

    Rob Watson, President, Rolls-Royce Electrical, said: “We are delighted to partner with Hyundai Motor Group which provides a valuable opportunity to leverage and build on the capabilities each company brings from the aerospace and automotive sectors. The Advanced Air Mobility Market offers great commercial potential, and this collaboration supports our joint ambitions to lead the way in the Advanced Air Mobility Market. It is also another demonstration of Rolls-Royce’s role in delivering the solutions that will enable passengers to travel sustainably and help deliver net zero carbon by 2050.”

    The benefits of using a hydrogen fuel cell system in an all-electric aircraft propulsion system is that it is a zero-emission, silent and reliable on-board power source that enables scalability in power offerings as well as long distance flight range. Hyundai will work with Rolls-Royce to bring hydrogen fuel cells, storage systems and infrastructure to the aerospace markets, and advance this technology into Hyundai’s RAM vehicles and Rolls-Royce all-electric and hybrid-electric propulsion system offerings.

    Last year, Rolls-Royce announced a pathway to net zero carbon emissions and its electrical technology is one way in which the company is helping decarbonise critical parts of the global economy. Rolls-Royce is committed to ensuring its new products will be compatible with net zero carbon operation by 2030 and all its products will be compatible with net zero carbon by 2050.

    Hyundai Motor Group earlier this year announced its AAM business roadmap, which encompasses the UAM and RAM segments to offer eco-friendly air mobility solutions for people within and between cities. Hyundai Motor Group’s US-based Supernal unit is aiming to begin commercial services of UAM businesses in the US in 2028 while Hyundai Motor Group plans to launch RAM services in the 2030s.

  • Global car manufacturers agree to introduce electric mini-commercial vans

    Global car manufacturers agree to introduce electric mini-commercial vans

    TOKYO, Japan: Leading global car manufacturers have agreed to work towards the market introduction of mini-commercial van electric vehicles (BEVs) in FY 2023 to achieve carbon neutrality.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, Suzuki Motor Corporation (Suzuki), Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (Daihatsu), Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), and Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corporation (CJPT) announced that they have agreed to work towards the market introduction of mini-commercial van electric vehicles (BEVs) in FY2023 to achieve carbon neutrality.

    READ MORE: Toyota unveils all new Crown for first time

    Mini-commercial vehicles cover areas accessible only to them because of their small size and are important in supporting last-mile logistics. They have become widespread accounting for about 60% of the total commercial vehicle fleet, making them a type of vehicle capable of contributing significantly to the achievement of carbon neutrality if electrification advances.

    However, a major issue in promoting the electrification of mini-commercial vehicles is the increasing burden on society as a whole, including the higher vehicle costs associated with electrification, the costs related to charging infrastructure, and the charging time (downtime: a period when vehicles and cargo are stopped).

    READ MORE: Honda Motors to start pre-orders of ZR-V SUV by September 2022

    It is under these circumstances, to realize an affordable mini-commercial van BEV that meets the usage needs of commercial customers, CJPT will participate in the planning, and Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Toyota will jointly develop a BEV system suitable for mini-commercial vehicles by combining Suzuki and Daihatsu’s know-how in manufacturing mini vehicles with Toyota’s electrification technology.

    The mini-commercial van BEV developed by these four companies will be used by partners in social implementation projects in Fukushima Prefecture and Tokyo.

    Suzuki, Daihatsu, Toyota, and CJPT will continue to promote efforts to practically achieve carbon neutrality through the provision of sustainable means of transportation.

  • Global economy to witness weak growth: ACCA survey

    Global economy to witness weak growth: ACCA survey

    KARACHI: The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has conducted the Q2 Global Economic Conditions Survey (GECS).

    According to the statement issued on Friday, all the main global indicators fell in the Q2 GECS, pointing to a decisive deterioration in the global economic outlook.

    The Q2 GECS points to a decisive deterioration in the global economic outlook due to the effects of war in Ukraine and the surge in inflation across much of the world. But while risks have risen, indications are that a global recession will be avoided.

    While confidence among financial professionals has dropped sharply, the level remains above the low-point reached at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    READ MORE: ACCA suggests imposing income tax on landowners

    The two “fear” indices reflecting level of concern that customers and suppliers may go out of business were little changed in the Q2 survey, both edging slightly higher. Both indices have fallen back from the extreme levels seen in 2020 but are still above pre-pandemic levels. 

    The largest fall in confidence occurred in the Middle East, a region more exposed to trade with Russia/Ukraine while North America and Western Europe recorded especially large falls due to big jumps in inflation in recent months. 

    Elsewhere the falls in confidence were still significant, but more modest. Only in North America has confidence fallen back to levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

    READ MORE: ACCA, IMA global economic conditions survey released

    While the outlook has darkened, the drop-in confidence is much greater than in orders. Indeed orders a lead indicator of economic activity are above their long run average. The employment index is also well above its long run average, despite dropping in Q2. Jobs markets are tight, and employment is rising in many economies, providing some offset to the effects of high inflation on real incomes.

    In a list of top concerns since the Q1 survey, financial professionals have swapped concerns over COVID for worries about inflation and rising interest rates. But for the third GECS in a row, supply shortages and supply chain issues have remained the highest ranked risk. Hopes are that this issue would fade in importance as this year progressed are fading.

    Jamie Lyon, head of skills, sectors and technology at ACCA said, “Post-pandemic recovery has now given way to negligible economic growth, elevated inflation, and extreme uncertainty. The war in Ukraine has given inflation a further boost by pushing commodity prices higher. But inflation was already high and rising before the war started in February: a strong rebound in demand fuelled by a massive monetary and fiscal response to the COVID pandemic had run up against supply shortages, resulting in a surge in price pressures.”

    READ MORE: Sales tax rate in Pakistan highest in region: ACCA

    Loreal Jiles, vice president of research and thought leadership at IMA added, “High inflation is resulting in falls in real disposable incomes putting downward pressure on private demand, especially household consumption. Prices of both food andenergy are rising rapidly. The result is a cost-of-living crunch on low-income households in advanced economies and across virtually all low and middle-income countries, where these two categories account for a high share of spending.”

    Jamie Lyon concluded, “Risks of a global recession have increased but our central case is that growth will be positive if rather weak. Employment growth may support total consumption. Nonetheless, with the exception of the COVID recession of 2020, we expect global GDP growth this year and next will be the weakest since the Global Financial Crisis of 2007-09.”

  • Toyota unveils all new Crown for first time

    Toyota unveils all new Crown for first time

    JAPAN: Toyota Motor Corporation on Friday unveiled its all new Crown. The four new models of Crown are Crown (Crossover Type), Crown (Sport Type), Crown (Sedan Type), and Crown (Estate Type).

    The company will release the Crown (Crossover Type) as the first model during the fall of this year.

    TOYOTA has unveiled the all new Crown for the first time in the world, and will release the Crown (Crossover type) as the first model around the fall of this year.

    The Crown made its initial debut in 1955 as Toyota’s first mass production passenger vehicle created with Toyota’s own domestic technology. The DNA of “innovation and limit-pushing” that led to the creation of the first independently developed luxury car in the early postwar period has been passed down to successive models of Crowns for the past 67 years, always pursuing new values that are one step ahead of the times and loved by many customers.

     However, the times have changed even faster, and the Crown has become unable to fully meet the diversifying needs of its customers, and its presence as a flagship vehicle has become less significant.

    In designing the new Crown, the development team thoroughly reexamined what “Crown” is, and as a result of their pursuit of a “Crown for a new era,” they have created four completely new models. In addition to the Crossover type, a new style that combines a sedan and an SUV, the Sport offers a sporty driving experience with an enticing atmosphere and an easy-to-drive package. The Sedan is a new formal design that meets the needs of chauffeurs, and the Estate is a functional SUV with a mature atmosphere and ample driving space. The new series will be rolled out in about 40 countries and regions.

    The details of the new Crown (Crossover type) are as follows.

    Vehicle Outline

    The “Crown” for the future reimagined from the ground up with a high-quality minimalist design

    Exterior Design

    The stylish, coupe-like silhouette is combined with elevated styling that conveys a sense of strength, achieving both fluidity and dynamism and expressing a completely new form of a flagship vehicle for a new era.

    The headlights and taillights, connected from left to right in a single straight line, and the side view that expresses sophistication through surface variation without relying on character lines, combine to create a simple yet refined and majestic design.

    Large-diameter tires that break with the conventional idea of a sedan have been adopted. By applying innovations to the body structure to create an underbody that extends outward close to the sides of the body and carefully examining the balance of the spaces between the body and the tires, we have created a powerful style that is neither a sedan nor an SUV with the sense of stability representative of an elevated sedan.

    Interior Design

    Horizontally integrating the display and operating equipment creates a functional layout that can be operated intuitively from any seat. The wrap-around form from the instrument panel to the doors also give a sense that all seats are special, enabling the driver to focus on driving and providing comfortable and enjoyable mobility for passengers.

    Meticulous attention to every interior component, including the understated and welcoming decorations of WARM STEEL, an invitingly shaped and comfortable shift knob, seats that focus on instantly recognizable finishing and provide a sense of security when seated, and other features, helps create a space with a sense of quality and richness.

    Color Design

    In terms of body colors, the newly developed “Precious Bronze” and “Precious Ray” as well as other distinctive bytone colors are coordinated to express the new Crown’s transformation. A total of 12 body color and four interior color combinations offer a wide range of variations.

    Effortless and dignified driving and a comfortable ride becoming of a Toyota flagship

    2.4-liter Turbo Hybrid System

    The hybrid system, which combines an inline 4-cylinder turbo engine that produces powerful torque even at low RPM, the latest eAxle electric powertrain that provides high driving torque, and a newly-developed bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery have been combined for the first time by Toyota. The hybrid system responds linearly to the operation of the accelerator by the driver creating a driving feel with a sense of comfortable acceleration.

    2.5-liter Series Parallel Hybrid System

    The Crown (Crossover type) is equipped with an optimized, high-efficiency hybrid system and a newly-developed bi-polar nickel-hydrogen battery, achieving class-leading fuel economy and quietness and further advancing the high-quality and smooth driving performance distinctive of the Crown.

    Newly developed platform

    Using a hip point higher than earlier sedans enabled through the adoption of large-diameter wheels makes entry and exit easier and allows excellent visibility. Additional space is provided above the head and to the front and rear to create a comfortable interior space with the sense that every seat is a first-class seat.

    While the package prioritizes ease of entry and exit and driving, the TNGA platform provides a lightweight and well-balanced high-rigidity body. The use of McPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear also allows for solid straight-line stability characteristic of the Crown, agility, and a flat feeling that does not blur the line of sight. All these features along with a smooth ride with minimal vibration were pursued to achieve a comfort level that makes you want to stay in the car for a long time.

    The most advanced safety and driving support systems provide reassuring and convenient driving

    Toyota Safety Sense

    Toyota Safety Sense, the latest active safety package with advanced and improved functions, is standard on all Crown grades. The range of accidents it can respond to has been expanded even further, enabling enjoyable driving with peace of mind.

    Toyota Teammate

    The new Crown (Crossover type) is equipped with Toyota Teammate, a suite of driver-assistance technologies. Advanced Drive (support during traffic congestion), which supports safe driving in traffic congestion, Advanced Park (with remote function), which automatically parks and exits from a parking space in a variety of parking situations and can be operated remotely as well, and other safety and convenient advanced functions are included.

    The new Crown (Crossover type) will also start being offered via the KINTO*4 car subscription service. When ordered through KINTO, automobile insurance, periodic maintenance, and various other vehicle expenses are included in the monthly payments. Customers, corporations, and individuals can sign up either online or at a dealer to enjoy easy access.

    In addition, if the “Cancellation Fee Free Plan” is selected as the payment method, the cancellation fee can be reduced to zero and the vehicle usage can be continued after the expiration of the initial three-year contract period by paying a predetermined application fee. The CROSSOVER G “Advanced Leather Package” monthly fee starts at 89,100 JPY (including tax).

  • Honda Motors to start pre-orders of ZR-V SUV by September 2022

    Honda Motors to start pre-orders of ZR-V SUV by September 2022

    TOKYO, Japan: Honda Motor Co., Ltd launched a teaser of ZR-V, all new SUV on July 14, 2022, which will be sale in Japan.

    The company launched a teaser page on their official website to share initial information on the ZR-V.

    Honda will release more details about the model in stages, including its plan to begin taking pre-orders in September of this year.

    READ MORE: Honda Cars declares 40% surge in annual profit

    According to details, the company launched a teaser page on its company website to share initial information on the ZR-V, an all-new SUV scheduled to go on sale in Japan this fall. Honda will release more details about the model in stages, including its plan to begin taking pre-orders in September of this year.

    Based on the grand concept of “Unleash your potential,” the all-new ZR-V was developed as a model to uplift the spirit of customers, like a favorite “special day” piece of clothing, and bring out their individuality. Key features include beautiful and sophisticated design, developed under the key words “glamorous & elegant,” and dynamic performance, achieved with a goal to realize driving at the will of the driver.

    READ MORE: Honda Cars posts Rs928 million quarterly profit after tax

    These attributes will enable the driver to enjoy the vehicle with more confidence and in a relaxing manner, a value new to SUV models. 

    All-new ZR-V adopts smart and elegant design which makes this model fit well in urban environments. The exterior design features flowing proportions characterized by large, smooth surfaces that flow from front to rear.

    The design of the front-fascia features a vertical grille, designed in concert with surrounding areas, and sharp-looking, wide-set headlights that flow horizontally. These features create a highly sophisticated expression, yet with stature and a strong presence. The rear of the body is shaped to emphasize the vehicle’s wide tread by adding volume around the bottom of the body, with a smooth, upswept look.

    The interior design realized a spacious cabin by adopting an instrument panel that stretches out horizontally in a linear fashion. Moreover, the interior design features a functional and precise finish on all parts to accentuate the beauty of the form, creating a high-quality interior space that is one class above the competition. In addition, a high-deck center console separates the front seats to create personal space for the driver and front passenger.

    READ MORE: Honda Cars declares 82 percent decline in annual profit

    By realizing both a low, stable driving position and a view of the road with great visibility, the packaging design enhanced the ease of driving and sense of oneness the driver will feel with this vehicle.

    In addition to a wide, horizontal forward field of vision, the rear view was designed to make it easier for the driver to recognize objects behind the vehicle, including vehicles and pedestrians, thereby pursuing excellent visibility while driving.

    As with the front seats, the hip point of the rear seats was set low to allow greater freedom for the end point of the roof design, resulting in both a sleek roof line and enhanced aerodynamic performance.

    Moreover, a variety of user-friendly storage spaces are provided, ensuring excellent utility to meet various customer needs. 

    The hybrid model of the all-new ZR-V will be the first Honda SUV to be equipped with the Sports e:HEV that combines a 2.0-liter direct injection engine that debuted on the Civic e:HEV and the advanced 2-motor hybrid system (e-CVT). The all-new ZR-V e:HEV will offer a high-quality, exhilarating and one-class-above driving experience in various driving situations including driving on city and suburban roads, highways and winding roads.

    READ MORE: Atlas Honda reports 73% decline in after tax profit

    The all-new ZR-V also will be available as a gasoline-powered model equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo engine with CVT, which offers highly-responsive and sporty driving.

    Both hybrid and gasoline models offer a real-time AWD variation, which enables customers to drive on snowy roads with greater peace of mind by realizing outstanding performance in making turns and climbing up snowy roads. 

    Starting on Saturday, August 13, 2022 (Japan time), Honda will hold pre-launch showcasing of the production models of all-new ZR-V at various locations in Japan. Please visit and enjoy an initial look at the highly-sophisticated ZR-V.  

    ・August 13-14, 2022: The “BIGMAN” square at Hankyu Umeda Station, Osaka, Japan
    ・August 20-21, 2022: The event space at Tokyo Station (near the Yaesu Central Exit)
    ・August 27-28, 2022: The JR Gate Tower at Nagoya Station, Aichi, Japan

  • Forbes China includes Xiaomi in best employers list

    Forbes China includes Xiaomi in best employers list

    BEIJING: Xiaomi, a global technology leader and the third largest smartphone manufacturer has been named one of the top ten employers by Forbes China.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi joins hands with SELECT for phone production

    Xiaomi had 33,000 full-time employees worldwide at the end of last year. Other companies on the list include Schneider Electric, Hitachi Energy, Bank of China, etc.

    Forbes China made its selection after surveying 70,000 people over three months. The survey, which involved multiple topics, was conducted by Forbes China and Russell Consulting Company.

    READ MORE: Xiaomi plans assembly plant in Pakistan

    Xiaomi was listed as one of the “World’s Best Employers 2021” by Forbes. It was also ranked No. 4 on the list of “China’s Most Attractive Employers” for engineering students by Universum.

    Xiaomi prides itself on maintaining best practices for recruitment, employment, and employee benefits. According to the Company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report last year, Xiaomi was free of unfair labor practices or gender discrimination.

    READ MORE: Clearance of mobile phones: Customs valuation of 234 brands, models issued

    “Xiaomi is pleased and honored to be recognized for our employment practices,” said Wang Xiang, Partner and President of Xiaomi Group. “We recruit talent from around the world and give our employees the best opportunity we can to unleash their creativity to make products that improve the world. Xiaomi is committed to operating at the highest standards and protecting the rights of our employees.”

  • Twitter moves court against Musk for breaching $44bn deal

    Twitter moves court against Musk for breaching $44bn deal

    Twitter Inc. on Tuesday reportedly filed a case against Elon Musk, the CEO Tesla Inc. for cancelling $44 billion purchase deal.

    The Twitter filed case against Elon Musk in the Delaware Court of Chancery to hold Musk to pay the amount of $44 billion for the deal of Twitter.

    READ MORE: Ufone increases rates amid rising inflation

    The CEO of Tesla, Inc., Elon Musk decides to terminate the $44 billion deal to buy Twitter claiming about the multiple violations in the agreement.

    Elon Musk claimed that the deal of purchasing Twitter was canceled because the Twitter breached the deal by failing to hand over data. He demanded that the number of bots and spam accounts on the platform should be evaluated.

    READ MORE: Jazz invests Rs14.9 billion during first quarter

    The legal experts said that the dispute could result in the involvement of judge forcing Musk to complete the deal or forcing him to pay a $1 billion breakup fee, or other scenarios including a settlement, renegotiation of the purchase price, or even Musk walking away without paying anything.

    In May, Musk said that the deal was “temporarily on hold” as he was waiting for the dates on the number of fake and spam accounts on Twitter.

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    The billionaire businessman had asked for evidence to back the company’s assertion that spam and bot accounts make up less than 5% of its total users.

    In a letter filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Musk’s lawyer said that the Twitter had failed or refused to provide this information.

    According to the letter: “Sometimes Twitter has ignored Mr. Musk’s requests, sometimes it has rejected them for reasons that appear to be unjustified, and sometimes it has claimed to comply while giving Mr. Musk incomplete or unusable information.”

  • US calls for strengthening bilateral trade with Pakistan

    US calls for strengthening bilateral trade with Pakistan

    KARACHI: US Special Representative for commercial and business affairs Dilawar Syed has visited Pakistan to strengthen trade ties between the two countries.

    Syed visited Karachi July 6-9 as part of a visit to Pakistan that also included stops in Islamabad, Lahore, and Sialkot. 

    In Karachi, Special Representative Syed met with government officials, industry leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and business journalists to further strengthen the economic partnership and bilateral trade between Pakistan and the United States. 

    “I am pleased to be in Karachi, a dynamic and diverse financial and commercial hub,” said Special Representative Syed. “I am in Pakistan to reaffirm the U.S. government’s commitment to building our economic ties and to explore ways to expand trade and investment between our two countries. Our economic ties are decades long and I’m excited to focus on this relationship as we are celebrating 75 years of relations between the United States and Pakistan.”

    During his visit to Karachi, Special Representative Syed met with Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto, Minister of Climate Change Sherry Rehman, Minister of Information Technology and Telecommunication Syed Amin ul Haque, Minister of Maritime Affairs Faisal Subzwari, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Cabinet Members, and municipal and provincial officials to discuss how the United States and Pakistan can continue to work together to facilitate broad-based, equitable, and sustainable economic growth for both nations. Special Representative Syed also met with Acting Director of the State Bank of Pakistan Dr. Murtaza Syed and other state bank officials about financial inclusion for women and underserved communities and the importance of improving Pakistan’s business climate for U.S. companies and investors to spur greater economic growth.

    Special Representative Syed met with numerous industry leaders to explore how to increase Pakistan’s trade balance in critical areas that will provide benefits to both Pakistanis and Americans. 

    They discussed how the government and private sector can work together to promote a better investment climate in Pakistan and increase women’s economic empowerment, sustainability, workforce development, and corporate social responsibility. Currently, the United States is Pakistan’s largest single country export market and one of the largest sources of foreign investment. U.S. companies and their local affiliates are among Pakistan’s largest employers, with roughly 80 U.S. companies directly employing more than 120,000 Pakistanis. Special Representative Syed also visited Gatron Novatex, a company with strong trade relations with the United States, where he learned more about their recently launched electronic vehicle Ecodost and recycling initiatives.

    One of the highlights of Special Representative Syed’s time in Karachi was a visit to the National Incubation Center Karachi (NICK) at NED University where he participated in a panel discussion about promoting U.S.-Pakistan innovation and investment. 

    While at NICK, Special Representative Syed discussed how the United States and Pakistan can cooperate to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. “The United States believes that a strong, prosperous, democratic Pakistan is vitally important for the region,” Special Representative Syed noted. “Entrepreneurship, gender equity in all sectors, and education and capacity-building opportunities are key ingredients to reaching that goal.”

  • Bitcoin plunges over 9%; biggest intraday fall

    Bitcoin plunges over 9%; biggest intraday fall

    KARACHI: The major digital currency i.e. Bitcoin (BTC) on Thursday fell over 9 per cent, the biggest intraday fall following the Federal Reserve’s meeting on Wednesday faded.

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