47 June 2023 motoring news With the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, BMW M puts an all-electric performance model at the top end of the new BMW 7 Series model range. It is the most powerful model with an all-electric drive in the overall BMW Group portfolio. With an electric motor on both the front and rear axles, which together generate a maximum system output of 485kW/660bhp, and an M suspension, the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive offers the perfect combination of electric mobility and performance, providing a driving experience that is unique in the luxury segment. The top model of the new BMW 7 Series accelerates from zero to 100kmph in 3.7 seconds, making it the fastest all-electric BMW model. The top speed is electronically limited to 250kmph. This new performance record is achieved thanks to an innovation patented by the BMW Group, which uses six excitation coils in the stator of the electric motor instead of the usual three. This allows the electric machine to generate extremely high power in a light and compact design and to provide it continuously up into high speed ranges. The standard suspension technology of the new BMW i7 M70 xDrive includes M specific adaptive two-axle air suspension with automatic self-levelling and electronically controlled shock absorbers whose response is optimised thanks to M specific hydraulics. Integral Active Steering and the Executive Drive Pro suspension package including Active Roll Stabilisation with Active Roll Comfort also feature as standard equipment. The package also offers an M sports brake system and 21-inch M light alloy wheels. Kia has been awarded two significant accolades at the iF Design Award 2023. The brand’s success in the prestigious ‘Company Branding’ and ‘Shop/Showroom Store Identity’ categories signifies the continued strength and effectiveness of Kia’s creative approach to customer engagement and its competitiveness in global design since the brand relaunch in 2021. Kia’s ‘Movement that Inspires’ ethos and its ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy sit at the heart of every strand of the brand’s global corporate identity and showroom identity strategies. Combined with models such as the recently revealed EV9 allelectric flagship SUV, they play a pivotal role in accelerating Kia on its rapid transition from a car manufacturer to a sustainable mobility solutions provider. ‘Movement that Inspires’ represents Kia’s determination to create spaces for customers to find value in every moment to become inspired and find more time to bring their ideas to life. Meanwhile, the marque’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity, utilising the character of one element to bring out the character of another. BMW LOOKING TO THE FUTURE WITH I7 M70 XDRIVE McLaren Automotive, the British creator of pioneering supercars partly-owned by Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat, has announced the appointment of Robert Holtshausen as Market Director for the Middle East and Africa. With more than a decade of experience at McLaren Automotive, including six years within the Middle East and Africa (MEAF) region, Mr Holtshausen will be spearheading the company’s local operations from the brand’s regional office based in Bahrain. Having joined McLaren Automotive in 2012, Robert’s professional background is predominantly automotive sales and marketing, having most recently held the position of Regional Sales Manager – Middle East and Africa. In his new role, Robert will be focusing on consolidating the brand’s leading position in the region and will report directly to Brett Soso, Managing Director – Europe, Middle East and Africa, who is based at the company’s headquarters in Woking, UK. “I am incredibly proud and excited to be taking up the role of Market Director for the Middle East and Africa,” said Mr Holtshausen. “The MEAF region provides amazing opportunity and I look forward to contributing to, and driving, our continued success in the region.” KIA SCOOPS DOUBLE AT iF DESIGN AWARD 2023 MCLAREN AUTOMOTIVE APPOINTS NEW MEAF MARKET DIRECTOR www.bahrainthismonth.com
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