2021 Toyota Venza

Toyota has introduced its all-new 2021 Venza which comes equipped exclusively with the Toyota Hybrid System II powertrain and advanced Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive. Along with comfortable urban and highway performance, Venza is expected to have impressive fuel efficiency, with a preliminary manufacturer-estimated 40 MPG combined fuel economy in LE trim.

The 2021 Venza, which arrives in Toyota dealerships this summer, is built around a version of the Toyota New Global Architecture K platform that underpins some of the company’s sedans and crossovers. As such, Venza delivers the best of both worlds: sedan-like driving comfort and CUV versatility.

The 2021 Venza offers ample room for five in a highly maneuverable package. A host of tech-focused features are available, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with nine JBL speakers, 7-inch multi-information display (MID), digital rear-view mirror, and 10-inch color Head-Up Display. Other available features include a Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof, a first-ever for Toyota, and heated and ventilated front seats that set the stage for true, graceful grand touring.

Venza’s top innovation is literally found on top of the vehicle. In a first for Toyota, the 2021 Venza offers an available Star GazeTM fixed panoramic glass roof. The Star GazeTM electrochromic glass technology allows drivers to switch from transparent to frosted modes within one second using the ON/OFF button. In the frosted mode, Star GazeTM brightens the interior while reducing direct sunlight, giving the cabin an even more open, airy, and inviting feeling.

Visibility-enhancing technology surrounds the driver. The Venza LE grade features a 4.2-inch color MID, while XLE and Limited grades receive a 7-inch color MID.  In either display, a Hybrid System Indicator shows the driver system output and regeneration status to encourage eco-driving habits. As used on other Toyota hybrid models, the display suggests the optimal acceleration amount for eco driving and provides a game-like scoring function for the driver.

The 2021 Venza is equipped with eight airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows. Toyota’s Star Safety System includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically from Dallas - tosan@trendyafrica.com

covid-19 pandemic: Bugatti restarts production in the workshop

From today, Bugatti is once again producing its unique hyper sports cars in the workshop in Molsheim. Following the break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, some employees are now returning to the main factory in Alsace. They will be able to work on the hyper sports cars; Chiron, and Divo subject to strict conditions.

A Bugatti task force has been working over recent weeks on specific rules of conduct for the restart, taking into consideration the legal requirements of the French government and recommendations from international experts.

Every employee will be given their own protective face mask on arrival at the Molsheim site. These must always be worn on the premises and in the work areas, even if a safety distance of 1.5 metres is also maintained and specified rules for washing hands are followed. In addition, employees will be required to clean their tools thoroughly before and after use.

Contactless processing of incoming and outgoing goods wherever possible, as well as reduction of deliveries and maintenance to a minimum, will be as much a part of the new normal in the coming weeks as continued meetings via Skype.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring from Dallas

Jaguar F-PACE SVR in Sub-Sahara Africa

Jaguar’s highest performance SUV, the F-PACE SVR, is now available in sub-Sahara Africa regions. Inspired by the F-TYPE sports car, the new SVR features Jaguar’s Variable Valve Active Exhaust System which provides a throaty soundtrack and is another factor behind the SVR’s increased performance capability. The advanced design allows increased exhaust flow and is 6.6kg lighter than the standard system.

To make the most of the SVR’s 5.0-litre V8 Supercharged engine, Jaguar’s eight-speed ‘Quickshift’ automatic transmission has been specially calibrated and its uprated suspension delivers driving dynamics to match its performance. The chassis upgrades include progressive front and rear springs that are 30 and 10 per cent stiffer respectively and incorporate an anti-roll bar specification that contributes to a 5% reduction in body roll. With over 400HP, the F-Pace SVR can sprint from 0-60mph in 4.3 seconds.

SVR-specific lightweight forged 21- and optional 22-inch alloy wheels are wider at the rear by 25mm compared to the front and contribute to the SVR’s enhanced handling. Aerodynamic enhancements include larger air intakes at the front and side fender vents that lower pressure in the wheel arches, reduce lift and provide additional cooling while also optimizing high-speed stability.

The Dynamic Stability Control system has been adapted to suit the added performance potential of the F-PACE SVR with the system able to reduce engine torque or apply braking to individual wheels to help maintain the chosen line when cornering.

The Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) has been tuned to manage the specific demands of high-speed cornering and the steering adapts depending on the drive mode selected – in Dynamic mode drivers experience a sportier set-up with enhanced steering feel and more direct response.

Drawing on Jaguar Land Rover’s extensive all-terrain expertise, the F-PACE SVR features a host of advanced technologies to ensure superb all-surface performance. All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics, All Surface Progress Control and Adaptive Surface Response ensure the SUV can handle all weather conditions and a wide variety of surfaces.

Inside, the F-PACE SVR features slimline performance front seats that provide enhanced lateral support and have signature lozenge quilting and embossed SVR logo. Unique rear seats echo the heavily sculpted designs up front and the SUV’s sports car character is underlined by the Sport Shift Selector. An SVR branded steering wheel features aluminium paddle shifters.

Customers have a choice of seven exterior paint finishes, while four interior colour themes help to highlight the vehicle’s high-performance personality; Pimento Red with Ebony Black, Light Oyster with Ebony, Siena Tan with Ebony and all black Ebony on Ebony. Veneer choices include Meshed Aluminium and Aluminium Weave Carbon Fibre

The F-PACE SVR is available now with pricing available from respective sub-Sahara Africa distributors. All Jaguars come standard with a 5-year/100,000km Care Plan.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically. - flowtranglobal@gmail.com

2019 Ford Ranger Launched in Pretoria

Ford has gone further in the ultra-competitive light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment with the launch of the New Ranger for 2019. The new Ranger was launched in Pretoria, South Africa, recently. Featuring an extensive range of mechanical, technological, feature and comfort upgrades, the new line-up will make the Ranger an even more compelling choice amongst workhorse and leisure-oriented pick-up customers.

“The current Ranger has been a fantastic success story for Ford in Sub-Saharan Africa, and is the leading LCV export to markets in Europe, the Middle East and the rest of Africa,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at Ford Motor Company Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) Region.

“The New Ranger introduces fresh exterior and interior design cues that build on its ‘tough truck’ image, complemented by the adoption of new technologies that further bolster the Ranger’s established reputation for supreme safety, convenience and comfort,” she adds.

The model line-up has been revised for New Ranger, with the new XLS series slotting in above the entry-level Base and XL versions. The XLS offers superb value for money along with an impressive list of standard features. The Ranger Limited makes way for an enhanced XLT specification in SSA, and the range is topped off as usual with the exclusive and luxuriously appointed Ranger Wildtrak.

Commenting on the New Ranger, Abiona Babarinde, the General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications at Coscharis Motors, the exclusive distributors of Ford in Nigeria says “We are excited about this new addition to our Ford collections that will certainly deliver the expected value in the auto market as this is expected to delight our numerous existing customers and convert new prospects in the truck segment. Surprisingly, some of our loyal customers have already started to make enquiries on this New Ranger which is a good signal that this vehicle will be well accepted and will do well in our market”.

Continuing the Ranger’s proven ‘Built Ford Tough’ heritage, the assertive styling of the 2019 model delivers an even more powerful presence on the road. The latest model offers the opportunity to provide greater differentiation in the series. Accordingly, the front-end design of the popular XLT series has been updated to have a more horizontal feel, with the centre grille bar now divided into two, giving it a more precise and well-crafted look.

The lower bumper also presents a sense of solidity and strength through the centre beam that runs into the outer fog lamp areas. With a wider lower grille the new bumper complements and harmonises well with new front end. The same design execution has been applied to XL and XLS variants.

The new Ranger comes in three different engine options: The powerful five-cylinder 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine continues to lead the range, delivering impressive performance and outstanding load-lugging abilities with a peak power of 147kW matched to 470Nm of torque.

The reliable and efficient 2.2-litre TDCi engine remains a key part of the New Ranger line-up across the Single Cab, SuperCab and Double Cab models. It continues in the two existing levels: 88kW/285Nm with a five-speed manual gearbox for the base-spec models, and 118kW/385Nm for the more upmarket versions, available with a choice of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions on selected derivatives

The dependable and more preferred in Nigeria 2.5-litre four-cylinder Duratec petrol engine is also available in selected models, providing 122kW of power and 225Nm of torque, combined with a five-speed manual gearbox.

The Ranger is already highly regarded for its impressive ride and handling characteristics, and the 2019 model range has benefitted from further improvements that result in significantly improved ride quality more akin to that of a sport utility vehicle (SUV) than a pick-up.

The refinements made on the new Ranger provide a plusher ride over rough surfaces by better isolating the occupants from the road inputs. They also improve vehicle handling over corrugated surfaces, give better steering precision and control, and benefit the vehicle posture and ride performance when laden.

The Ranger’s exceptional towing capacity of up to 3 500kg remains unchanged, as do the impressive load capacity of up to 1 199kg (on selected SuperCab models), the 800mm water wading depth and 230mm ground clearance.

The Ford Ranger continues to rewrite the rulebook by introducing trend-setting technologies to the pick-up segment, and the New Ranger is no exception.

Added for everyday convenience is the new Passive Entry and Passive Start (PEPS), fitted as standard on the XLT. The keyless entry and passive start uses an intelligent access system that allows the driver to unlock the vehicle and start the engine without removing the key fob from a pocket or bag. When the key is in the vehicle, the driver simply presses the Start/Stop button while applying the brake pedal to start the car.

Ford’s award-winning SYNC® technology remains the cornerstone of the Ranger’s in-car entertainment system on the high-end models. XLT models are equipped with high-end SYNC® 3 linked to the integrated eight-inch touch-screen colour display. Navigation is standard on selected XLT derivatives.

The safety package offered in the New Ranger is of the highest order. Depending on specification level, it incorporates a comprehensive Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system with Traction Control (TC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Adaptive Load Control (ALC) and Roll Over Mitigation (ROM).

A full Category 1 Thatcham-specification alarm is now standard on all Ranger XL, XLS, XLT and Wildtrak models, complemented by a spare wheel lock across the range.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically

Karma presents hot new models at Shanghai 2019

Luxury electric vehicle automaker, Karma Automotive, chose Auto Shanghai 2019, the world’s largest automotive show, to usher in a new era for the company and launch its New Dawn product showcase illustrating its immediate, mid-term and long-term future.

The big three include;

1.       2020 Karma Revero GT luxury electric vehicle: it’s fast, smart, stunning in design, and will be available for sale during the second half of this year. The new car offers improved technology, performance, interior and exterior options and customization capability. It features a TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder in-line engine supplied by BMW AG to power an on-board electric generator and enhance overall vehicle performance. Karma engineers created a world-class electric drive system that alongside a series of other technological advancements enables the new 2020 Revero to be as fast as it looks.

2.    Karma Pininfarina GT coupe: the first result of a partnership with Pininfarina, the iconic Italian design and engineering house. The Pininfarina team took a new 2020 Revero GT, retained the fundamental engineering parameters and then crafted a new body style, panels and interior, offering an alternative design interpretation.

3.       Karma SC1 Vision Concept: a signpost to Karma’s future – one that recognizes and embraces full electrification. The roadster reimagines Karma design language for tomorrow and soon-to-come customization options and shows the brand’s future direction based on full BEV offerings at the company’s core. The Karma SC1 Vision Concept features the best of some of tomorrow’s cutting-edge technologies with Karma’s distinctive take on integration. At the core of SC1 Vision Concept’s technological suite is a new infotainment architecture with 5G connectivity as well as a humanized communication system, which integrates touch, voice, eye, and graphical interfaces to enable seamless interaction with the roadster.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically - flowtranglobal@gmail.com

COTA IndyCar series 2019

The inaugural IndyCar Classic was held at Circuit of the Americas-COTA on March 24, 2019. It was a 60-lap event that was won by rookie Colton Herta of Harding Steinbrenner Racing, who became the youngest race winner in IndyCar Series history at 18 years of age.

It was one of the two additions to the 2019 IndyCar Series schedule, which officially revealed that COTA had obtained a race as part of a multi-year agreement when it was released on September 4, 2018.

COTA was joined on the 2019 schedule by a revived Grand Prix of Monterey on September 22, the season finale and the first IndyCar race at Laguna Seca in 15 years. IndyCar Classic was the second race of the 2019 season, following the season-opening Grand Prix of St. Petersburg two weeks earlier on March 10.

The placement of the Austin race, as well as the forward shift of the Grand Prix of Alabama that follows it, will reduce the number of long gaps in the early portion of the season.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically - flowtranglobal@gmail.com

Land Rover’s expedition to tackle malaria

Land Rover is working with the Mobile Malaria Project, winners of the 2018 Land Rover Bursary in partnership with the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), as it heads to sub-Saharan Africa to embark on a unique eight-week journey of Discovery.

Made up of three Oxford University researchers, led by Dr George Busby, the Mobile Malaria Project will travel more than 6,300km across Namibia, Zambia, Tanzania and Kenya. Driving a specially-modified Land Rover Discovery, they will investigate the challenges facing those on the front line of malaria control in Africa – where 90 per cent of the world’s cases occur.

Designed and developed by Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations, the Discovery is equipped with a mobile genetic sequencing laboratory that makes full-use of the vehicle’s 1,137-litre load space. Not only does it feature a fridge/freezer unit to safely store scientific supplies, there is also a bespoke load space configuration frame system with specially-designed storage equipment cases and an on-board expedition battery.

The Land Rover Discovery has a 30-year track record of tackling the most difficult terrain, reaching threatened habitats and vulnerable people across the world. The expedition group has also teamed up with another of Land Rover’s global humanitarian partners, what3words, to accurately plan their route, navigate on the ground and document their findings in real-time.

The Mobile Malaria Project will depart the UK on 22 March to begin its eight-week expedition.

bout the Land Rover Bursary

About Land Rover Bursary

The Land Rover Bursary was first awarded by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) in 2007, offering funding and the use of a Land Rover vehicle, as part of a partnership that stretches back more than 35 years. The bursary is awarded every year to an enthusiastic team who undertake a journey for which a Land Rover is integral, to promote a wider understanding and enjoyment of geography and to take the recipients beyond their normal limits and boundaries.

About Land Rover

Since 1948 Land Rover has been manufacturing authentic 4x4s that represent true 'breadth of capability' across the model range. Defender, Discovery, Discovery Sport, Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Velar and Range Rover Evoque each define the world's SUV sectors, with 80 per cent of this model range exported to over 100 countries.

About the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

The Royal Geographical Society (with IBG; Institute of British Geographers) is the learned society and professional body for geography. Formed in 1830 for 'the advancement of geographical science', today we deliver this objective through developing, supporting and promoting geographical research, expeditions and fieldwork, education, public engagement, and geography input to policy. The Society aims to foster an understanding and informed enjoyment of our world. The RGS-IBG holds the world's largest private geographical collection and provides public access to it. www.rgs.org

About the Mobile Malaria Project

As winners of the 2018 Land Rover Bursary, Dr George Busby from the University of Oxford's Big Data Institute, Jason Hendry and Dr Isaac Ghinai will drive 6,300km across Africa in March 2019 to document current innovations and challenges in eliminating malaria – a parasitic infectious disease transmitted between humans by mosquitoes.

Tosan Aduayi contributes on motoring from Dallas, Texas

BUGATTI hyper sports “LA VOITURE NOIRE”

French luxury brand Bugatti has shown that it can transform these challenges into unique models. With its one-off car “La Voiture Noire1“Bugatti has again proved that it makes the world’s most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive hyper sports cars. “The true form of luxury is individuality. ‘La Voiture Noire’ is now at the cutting edge of automobile production.

The heart of the new creation is the iconic 16-cylinder engine with a displacement of 8 litres developing 1,103 kW/1,500 PS and 1,600 Newton-metres of torque. Six tailpipes at the rear bear witness to its incredible power and are also a tribute to the 16 cylinders.

The new “Voiture Noire“, the perfect grand tourisme, is just as exclusive, powerful and luxurious as Jean Bugatti’s historic car. “Bugatti arouses passion and emotions throughout the world. Customers expect us to continually surprise them and to raise the goalposts beyond the limits of their imagination. 

We have just succeeded in doing so with ‘La Voiture Noire‘,” says Stephan Winkelmann. Bugatti will continue to work hard to shape the future of the brand. This will be a future full of beauty, passion and surprises.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically - flowtranglobal@gmail.com

Jaguar I-PACE wins European Car of the Year

The all-electric Jaguar I-PACE has been voted ‘Car of the Year’ at the European Car of the Year Awards 2019. This is the first time a Jaguar has won the coveted prize. The European Car of the Year jury comprises 60 motoring journalists from 23 countries, and the award recognises technical innovation, design, performance, efficiency and value for money.

Designed and developed in the UK, the Jaguar I-PACE has had profound sales success globally, with more than 8,000 customer deliveries to date – 75 per cent of them in Europe*.

Nothing else on the road looks or drives like the I-PACE. It is engineered to take full advantage of its electric powertrain and bespoke aluminium architecture, offering sports car performance and SUV practicality.

Charging is made easy for customers using the Jaguar public charging service, accessed via a dedicated app or using an RFID key. With tailor-made charging packages and tariffs compiled into a simple monthly bill, it gives I-PACE customers access to more than 85,000 charging points throughout Europe.

The I-PACE has received 55 awards worldwide since it was revealed a year ago, including German, Norwegian and UK Car of the Year, BBC TopGear magazine EV of the Year, China Green Car of the Year, and Autobest’s ECOBEST Award.

Tosan Aduayi reports on motoring periodically - flowtranglobal@gmail.com

USA cops receive safer Dodge Chargers

A while back in New York, two police officers were attacked unnoticed and murdered in their patrol vehicles. There has been a push to ensure that cops feel safer while on duty. To this effect, more than 10,000 Dodge Charger Pursuit police sedans across the U.S. are now equipped with the Officer Protection Package thanks to an alliance between FCA US LLC and Intermotive, Inc.

 The Officer Protection Package combines InterMotive’s Surveillance Mode Module™ with FCA’s Fleet Safety Group technology – ParkSense rear park assist system and ParkView rear backup camera – to alert officers when movement at the rear of the vehicle is detected.

Cops are can now immediately see what is behind the vehicle via the camera monitor. At the discretion of the local law enforcement agency, the tripped sensors can also be programed to automatically initiate any or all of the following: a signal for the doors to lock, front windows to roll up, reverse lights to turn on and tail lights to flash, giving the officer a few critical extra seconds to assess and react to the situation.

Dodge SRT offers a complete lineup of performance vehicles that stand out in their own segments. Dodge is America’s mainstream performance brand and SRT is positioned as the ultimate performance halo of the Dodge brand, together creating a complete and balanced performance brand with one vision and one voice.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

KBB 10 COOLEST NEW CARS UNDER $20k FOR 2018

Kelley Blue Book has named its 10 coolest cars under $20k for 2018. The award recognizes vehicles that offer comfort, style and driving excitement at an affordable price.

1. 2018 Mazda Mazda3

Widely regarded as the best-looking and most fun-to-drive vehicle in its segment, the Mazda3 is the all-time champion of our budget-minded coolest cars list, appearing here for the 15th time.

2. 2018 Honda Civic

Kelley Blue Book's Small Car Best Buy of 2018, the Civic is a well-rounded car offered as a sedan or coupe that's comfortable, roomy, practical, efficient, packed with cool tech, and a blast to drive.

3. 2018 Hyundai Kona

The newest addition to this list is the Kona, Hyundai's new small SUV. The Kona was given a healthy dose of modern style, and the clean, crisp cabin is filled with a bevy of connectivity and advanced safety features.

4. 2018 Volkswagen Golf

Euro-tuned handling and a sporty attitude are only part of what makes the Golf such an appealing car.

5. 2018 Kia Soul

Few vehicles match the Kia Soul's alluring combination of bold style, SUV-like versatility, and practicality, with a roster of standard and available features that add to the Soul's value.

6. 2018 Jeep Renegade

Of all the vehicles on this list, the Renegade is the one that can get you the furthest beyond where the pavement ends.

7. 2018 Subaru Impreza

Already earning extra credit for its standard all-wheel drive, a recent redesign gives the Impreza sedan and hatchback sharper looks, more refinement.

8. 2018 Honda Fit

This diminutive hatchback has a feature called the Magic Seat that gives the interior space and versatility that rivals that of a small SUV.

9. 2018 Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai's Elantra was already established as a high-value car loaded with a wide array of standard features.

10. 2018 Chevrolet Sonic

The Sonic's starting price of $16,170 makes it the most affordable car on this list. But what keeps Chevrolet's subcompact sedan and hatch on our list of coolest cars is its compelling combination of tech, comfort and a fun attitude, all wrapped in redesigned sheetmetal.

Tosan Aduayi, a motoring journalist since 1994, is the founder, Trendy Africa Magazine and Flowtran global blog. He has reported on Motoring with trademark columns; Roadrunner and Carliners. Contact; tosan@trendyafrica.com

Only 300 Jaguar XE Project 8 sedans will be hand built

Engineering fine-tuning on the new Jaguar XE SV Project 8 has almost finished, ahead of production starting in June. Only 300 units will be hand built worldwide. The fastest high performance sedan in the world will hit top speeds of about 322km/h and 0-100km/h acceleration takes just 3.7 seconds. With a 441kW version of Jaguar’s legendary supercharged 5.0-litre V8, Project 8 is the most powerful Jaguar road car to date.

Unlike most high performance production sedans, the four-wheel-drive Project 8 is studded with genuine motor racing technology. This includes, as standard, adjustable ride height, adjustable camber, adjustable front splitter and rear wing, a flat underbody, a differential oil cooler, track-perfect Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard on forged 20-inch wheels and – a production car first – F1-style ceramic wheel bearings.

The front uprights, two-part upper wishbones, balljoints in place of rubber bushes, twin coil springs, dampers, lower suspension bushes, anti-roll bars and latest specification carbon ceramic brakes are all new and bespoke to Project 8. The only carryover body components from the standard XE are the roof and front door skins, both made from aluminium. The vented bonnet and flared front wings and bumpers are made from lightweight carbon fibre.

In its most extreme settings, and in ‘Track’ mode, Project 8 delivers 122kg of downforce at 300km/h – that’s 25 percent more than its nearest rival. And, it is the first Jaguar to offer a Track mode, standard on all versions, which tailors driveline and stability control systems for circuit use by sharpening throttle and steering responses and tuning the dampers to their most aggressive setting.

Two versions of Project 8 are available. The four-seat version contains all the motorsport technology that is the hallmark of Project 8. In addition, there is a more hardcore two-seat Track Pack version that saves 12.2kg in weight and includes carbon fibre racing seats and four-point safety harnesses. In place of the back seat is a solid metal panel and Harness Retention Hoop, which helps boost torsional rigidity by 27 percent over the four-seat version.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

Range Rover Velar named most beautiful car in the world

The Range Rover Velar has been judged the most beautifully designed vehicle on the planet, winning the World Car Design of the Year title at the 2018 World Car Awards. Bringing glamor, modernity and elegance to the Range Rover family, Velar offers a unique combination of design excellence and engineering integrity.

The distinctive design of the Range Rover Velar features perfectly optimized proportions and a stunning silhouette. Its super-slim Premium LED headlights, flush deployable door handles and sleek Touch Pro Duo infotainment are all hallmarks of Range Rover’s reductionist design philosophy.

Launched last year and named after the codename for the original concept Range Rovers of the late 1960s, the Velar fills the space between the Range Rover Evoque and Range Rover Sport.

In the U.S., three engines are currently offered, including a 247HP 2.0-liter Ingenium turbocharged gasoline engine, 180HP 2.0-liter Ingenium turbocharged diesel engine, and potent 380HP 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK, the Velar delivers the practicality, connectivity and capability expected from the Range Rover family. With the latest technology and the inclusion of more sustainable materials, this luxury SUV is designed to go Above and Beyond.

The Range Rover Velar, priced from $49,900 (MSRP) in the US, the vehicle is available to order now at Land Rover retailers.

Tosan Aduayi, a motoring journalist since 1994, is the founder, Trendy Africa Magazine and Flowtran global blog. Contact; tosan@trendyafrica.com

Road Safety - A Social Responsibility

Debmarine Namibia embarked upon a long road safety awareness campaign to promote and inculcate road-safety consciousness in the country, primarily among its employees, but also aimed at drivers, passengers and the community members at large. Road safety and accident prevention are recurring, frequently explored subjects, although not always from the same perspective. 

The campaign conducted by Debmarine Namibia, was firstly rolled out internally among the company’s employees. The Company routinely captures and monitors road-related accident statistics of its employees and came to the realisation that with the rise in road-related risky behaviour, employees are more at risk away from the workplace than in the workplace.

This led to the introduction of the internal Safety Ripple Campaign, designed to sensitise employees and create dialogue on the various aspects of risky road behaviour in an effort to encourage responsible safety culture and behaviour. Today, the Debmarine Namibia Facebook page published its locally produced video clip “Driving Safely Is A Social Responsibility”, which is a social experiment dealing with vehicle maintenance awareness. This is part of the Company’s external campaign, as a responsible corporate citizen to encourage other corporates and citizens to weigh in on addressing road safety, as a social responsibility.

Road Safety requires not only driver fitness, but also vehicle fitness. A well maintained vehicle not only speaks volumes about the owner, but also will protect its driver and passengers on the road. The video shows the diverse reactions of Namibian drivers/passengers from all walks of life, when suddenly being confronted with possible drastic consequences of vehicle failure on roads. It is a clear call-to-action to most Namibian drivers to regularly service their vehicles, especially in December, as fatal accidents are punctually on the rise at this time of the year.

Spotting risky behavior is part of the campaign, aiming to make the community more aware of the fundamental importance of vehicle maintenance, which could alone reduce road fatalities. For every person killed in traffic crashes, many more suffer serious injuries with life-changing consequences, such as the story showcased in the Debmarine Namibia’s video. Serious injuries are not only more common, but also often more costly to society because of long-time rehabilitation and healthcare needs.

While it may be obvious that accident-related events are linked to risky behaviour, in Namibia, rollover crashes are mainly attributed to speeding, fatigue, alcohol, but also worn-out tyres, resulting in the loss of vehicle control.

Drunk driving is only one of the leading causes of road accidents and it contributes significantly to accidents on the road. This led Debmarine Namibia to donate breathalyzers testing kits to the Private Sector Road Safety Forum and the MVA Fund worth N$ 130 000. The donation aims to support efforts to reduce drunk driving accidents and save lives.

Police cars get new enhancement features

General Motors Chevrolet Tahoe police cruisers will get new set of safety features. The centerpiece is a new Enhanced Driver Assist Package that’s the first of its kind for a pursuit-rated vehicle. The option package is built around five distinct technologies and features:

Low Speed Forward Automatic Braking: This feature, which has never been offered on a pursuit-rated vehicle before, automatically applies the brakes to help reduce a collision's severity if the vehicle is traveling at a low speed and the system detects that a front-end collision is imminent and the driver has not already applied the brakes.

Forward Collision Alert: This system uses radar and a forward-looking camera to measure the closing speeds between a vehicle and objects in its path. If a driver-adjustable threshold is passed, the system triggers a visual alert and audible beeps or seat pulses, if equipped.

Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning: This feature provides gentle steering wheel turns to help drivers avoid crashes due to unintentionally drifting out of their lanes when they are not actively steering and the turn signals are not activated.

Safety Alert Driver Seat: The GM-patented Safety Alert Seat gives drivers the option of getting haptic seat-bottom vibration pulses instead of audible crash avoidance alerts.

Power Adjustable Pedals: Combined with the Tahoe PPV’s standard 10-way power driver seat and tilt wheel, power adjustable pedals help drivers of all sizes find their optimal driving position for comfort and control.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

Jaguar XE SV world’s fastest 4-door

Jaguar’s SVO-developed XE SV Project 8 is now the world’s fastest four-door car, following a production-intent prototype’s record lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The incredible time of 7min 21.2sec is nearly 11 seconds quicker than the previous fastest sedan around the legendary 20.76km German circuit and puts the 441kW Project 8 ahead of some of the world’s fastest two-door coupés and supercars. SVO exists to push the boundaries of performance, luxury and all-terrain capability. 

The hand-assembled XE SV Project 8 takes that principle to the limit, extracting supercar-beating performance from Jaguar’s most compact four-door sedan. Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) is a specialist team of Jaguar Land Rover designers, engineers and technicians dedicated to enhancing the performance, luxury and capability attributes of Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

Coscharis partners with Jumia to offer black friday bonanza

Coscharis Motors PLC, a foremost automobile dealer in Nigeria and sole representative of globally respected iconic auto brands like Ford, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Morris Garages (MG), etc, in Nigeria, has partnered with Jumia the largest online shop in Africa to present the most exciting Black Friday shopping experience so far in this part of the world.

As part of the partnership offering, Coscharis will put forward some of her vehicle brands specially to Jumia customers at heavily discounted rates. Shoppers on Jumia will also stand a chance to win a brand new Ford Figo during this Black Friday event.

General Manager Marketing and Corporate Communications for Coscharis Group, Mr. Abiona Babarinde explained that this is another way Coscharis Motors Plc is giving back to her customers as they warm up for the Yuletide season. “We will always seek new ways to delight our customers and give them value for their money, no matter the platform on which they wish to patronize us, online or offline.”

Abiona also said, “During the Jumia Black Friday Promo period, we will offer a number of our vehicle brands at heavily discounted rates for willing customers to take advantage of. Also the entry level Ford Figo will be on offer to be won via a raffle draw on the Jumia platform, for those who will patronize the platform during the Black Friday Promo period.”

Some of the variants which Coscharis Motors is expected to offer at heavily discounted rates are:

Morris Garages - MG 5 COMFORT, MG 6 COMFORT, MG 750 EXECUTIVE

Ford - Ford Expedition King Ranch

BMW - BMW 640, BMW 218i Active Tourer, BMW X-6

MINI - Mini Cooper Countryman

Jaguar - Jaguar XE, Jaguar XF

Land Rover - Range Rover Evoque Coupe, Range Rover Sport HSE

On the choice of Jumia’s Black Friday platform, Mr. Abiona said “Jumia is one of the best online shopping platforms in our market and offers exciting customer experience to shoppers. These are qualities that resonate with our drive to always add value to our numerous customers.” Black Friday falls on November 24th, 2017.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

2018 Jaguar F-Type fitted with a 4-cylinder turbo engine

The award-winning Jaguar F-TYPE is now available in Jaguar’s sub-Sahara Africa markets with a new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Ingenium engine. The most powerful four-cylinder engine ever fitted to a Jaguar boasts superb performance, propelling the F-TYPE from a standstill to 100km/h in just 5.7 seconds – and on to a top speed of 250km/h.

The pairing of Jaguar’s all-aluminium two-seat sports car with the advanced 221kW 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant delivers Jaguar sports car DNA with enhanced agility and improved efficiency and affordability. This is a true F-TYPE, with its own unique character.

The four-cylinder charged F-TYPE completes the 2018 model year F-TYPE line-up, joining the 423kW supercharged V8 F-TYPE SVR, 405kW F-TYPE R, 294kW F-TYPE 400 SPORT, 280kW F-TYPE S and 250kW F-TYPE – in both Coupé and Convertible body styles, as well as the R-Dynamic trim level.

Tosan Aduayi is a veteran motoring journalist and contributor - tosan@trendyafrica.com

Coscharis supports Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Annual Conference & Gala Nite in Lagos

R-L: Abiona Babarinde, General Manager Marketing and Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group; Felix Mahan, Brand Manager; Coscharis Motors Plc; Edwin Okonkwo, Sales Executive, Abro, Coscharis Motors Plc; at the Abro exhibition stand during the 2017 Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) Annual Conference & Gala Nite, cosponsored by Coscharis Group, in Lagos recently.

Coscharis hosts BIMMERFEST 2017 in Lagos

Coscharis Motors Plc in partnership with BMW Club Nigeria, demonstrated the automated driving  capabilities of the new BMW 5 during the BMW Club 2017 Bimmerfest event which held recently at the Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island Lagos. 

The event aimed at celebrating BMW achievements and its enthusiasts across the country while highlighting BMW performance.

Middle​: Abiona Babarinde, General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communication,​ Coscharis Group; 2nd left:​ Kennedy Njideofor, President BMW Club Nigeria; ​extreme​ right: Cletus Aregbeshola, Coscharis BMW Brand Manager; with members of the BMW Club Nigeria during the second edition of Bimmerfest in Nigeria ​

According to Abiona Babarinde, the General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Coscharis Group, the essence of the collaboration with the BMW Club Nigeria is to create an enabling and empowering environment for BMW owners and fans in Nigeria.

From R-L: Kennedy Njideofor, President BMW Club Nigeria; Abiona Babarinde, General Manager, Marketing & Corporate Communication, Coscharis Group; Joseph Omokhapue, National Sales Manager, Coscharis BMW and other members of the BMW Club Nigeria during the second edition of Bimmerfest in Nigeria ​

”It is an avenue for the customers to be celebrated as proud owners of their favourite BMW automobile brand and share experiences amongst each other while Coscharis Motors, as the exclusive representative of BMW, gladly takes feedback towards effective resolution of any after sales setbacks overtime to further delight the customers for their continued loyalty''.

One of the key highlights of the event was when Joseph Omokhapue, the National Sales Manager, Coscharis BMW demonstrated some of the unique features in the new BMW 5 series which offer the driver unbeatable support – not only at critical moments but also in less demanding situations at the wheel, such as traffic jams, slow-moving traffic and monotonous stretches of motorway.

To this end, the 5 Series is fitted as standard with a stereo camera, which teams up with optional radar and ultrasound sensors to monitor the area around the car.

source: Coscharis motors