Electric vehicles are all the rage these days for their immense benefit to climate change and global warming. Likewise, Government of Pakistan is also taking serious measures to fight air pollution and climate change through the introduction of electric vehicles in the country. A meeting at BIO (board of investment) was held on May 29, 2019 in this regard. The Ministry of climate change has formulated a policy regarding the vehicles sold in the country; with an expected annual income of Rs 110 billion.
The Government has also decided to introduce 100,000 new electric vehicles such as cars, vans and small trucks under a five year mid-term plan from 2020. A target has been set to convert 30% sales of yearly 60 thousand vehicles to electric cars by 2030 and about 90% vehicles to electric cars by 2040. According to the electric vehicle policy draft prepared by the Ministry of Climate Change, the government has also set a target of introducing 500,000 two, three and four wheel drive electric vehicles in the next 5 years under the long term plan. The policy also includes increasing the annual 900,000 sales of 2, 3 and 4 wheel drive vehicles to 50% as electric cars by the year 2030 and about 90% by the year 2040.
The introduction of electric cars is expected to fight against increased air pollution in the country, while also contributing towards an economic fuel consumption. Vehicle emission is one of the main contributors to air pollution in Pakistan which also negatively affects the growth in the agriculture sector.
Although PM Imran Khan has approved the concept, it will be presented to the cabinet in 2 weeks. The electric vehicle policy is a tough ask for the government due to immense market barriers. There is no proper charging mechanism, revenue collection, import duty statistics and infrastructure for self-assembly industry in place in the country.
The automobile industry has already opposed the decision considering it as a contradiction of Auto-Industry Development Policy 2016-21. They have also emphasized that the electric vehicle policy in Pakistan is relying mainly on imports instead of the local automobile market unlike countries such as the US, India and China which have a proper policy in place to also offer a healthy growth for their local automobile market.
Existing car assemblers were not much interested in the formulation of a separate policy for Electric vehicles. On the contrary, the new auto investors looked quite interested in working with the Electric vehicles and EV policy draft that has been set up so far. The new auto investors under the new auto policy-2016-21 includes the likes of Sazgar Engineering, Topsun Motors, Khalid and Khalid Holding, Ka Hanteng Motor Company are much interested to introduce EV in country.
Stakeholders also urged the government to consider some policy regarding the age limit of old vehicles running on roads especially heavy vehicles such as trucks which cause a lot of carbon emission.
Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM) former chairman Mashood Khan is of the view that the country needs to put a proper infrastructure such as electric charges in place before bringing the electric vehicles. He suggests government to gradually introduce electric cars over a period of seven to ten years under long term planning. Auto-Industry experts also want the imports to be reduced to 30% components with remaining 70% to be manufactured by the local automobile authorities of Pakistan.
Dubai, UAE: Automechanika Dubai 2019, the 17thedition of the Middle East and Africa’s (MEA) largest automotive aftermarket trade fair, was opened today (10th June)by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
With 1,880 exhibitors from 63 countries spanning 63,300sqmat the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the annual three-day event features 23 country pavilions and 34 international trade associations, while more than half of the 32,000-plus trade visitors are expected to come from outside of the UAE.
The biggest names in the global automotive aftermarket will look to make big inroads in a MEA spare parts market and auto services industry that’s estimated to grow by six per cent annually over the next six years.
“Automechanika Dubai over the years has transformed into a trade event of truly global scale, thanks to its continued track record of innovation, targeting and fine tuning its offerings in line with the particular market requirements,” said Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, Automechanika Dubai’s Show Director.
“We’re confident that demand for the automotive service industry and aftermarket products will remain robust, with growth largely fuelled by demand from existing vehicle parc and the expected improvement of car sales moving forward.
“With that said, the aftermarket is changing, and with that change comes new opportunities. Our vision for Automechanika Dubai is to be at the forefront of these new opportunities, presenting a unique platform for all industry stakeholders to start discussions, plan ahead, and to ultimately lay the foundations for long-term sustainable success.”
Automechanika Dubai 2019 covers the six major product sections of Parts & Components and Electronics & Systems (1,181 exhibitors); Accessories & Customizing (246 exhibitors); Tyres & Batteries (226 exhibitors); Repair & Maintenance (155 exhibitors); and Car Wash, Care & Reconditioning (72 exhibitors).
It opens as the MEA’s auto aftermarket, valued at US$61 billion in 2018,is estimated to continue its upward trajectory, valuing US$87.3 billion in 2024, according to analysts TechSci Research.
Organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East also added new sub-sections that underline the show’s evolution, namely Agricultural Parts & Equipment; Body & Paint; Motorcycle Competence; and Oils & Lubricants.
Exhibitors are keen to use Automechanika Dubai’s impressive regional scope to reach out to far-flung markets. Emerald Spare Parts, based in the UAE and distributors of auto parts, batteries and lubricants for Japanese and Korean cars, is looking to reach new markets.
Rajesh Daga, Assistant General Manager of Emerald Spare Parts said: “The majority our business comes from the Middle East and Africa, where we’ve been traditionally very strong. Demand in these markets have been growing at a fast clip, and we’ve also evolved keeping in mind the intricacies of working in these markets.
“We feel some of these markets are maturing and also becoming financially stronger. Hence, we feel high quality products that we represent, will have a greater demand and consumption.”
Balkrishna Industries (BKT) is a manufacturer and exporter of Off Highway Tyres, and one of the headline returning exhibitors to Automechanika Dubai in 2019.
The Indian-headquartered BKT is one of the world’s fastest growing companies in the OHT segment, with a 5th manufacturing facility planned in Tennessee, USA. “This will be the first BKT manufacturing facility outside India, and will be helpful in increasing our presence in the American continent,” said Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director of BKT.
“BKT growth will be mainly coming from the All Steel OTR (Off-The-Road) radials as this the fastest growing segment for BKT. Owing to the sustained market demand, BKT will also grow in Construction and Industrial tire segments with its vast product range.
“At Automechanika Dubai 2019, BKT is launching its first “On & Off road” Tipper tire 12.00R24 in SR423 pattern. In addition, some important sizes in Multi-Purpose Truck segment are being showcased. BKT is also expanding its range in Solid tire segment where 4.00 – 8 ECO Rib pattern has been introduced for Ground Support Equipment and 7.00 – 12 Maglift ECO pattern as a high performance tire for Forklift and Material Handling,” added Poddar.
Elsewhere, Polish manufacturer Troton is a headline exhibitor in the new Body & Paint section, and is launching its Brayt line of polishing compounds and the Rangers bed liner.
“The weather in this region can be harsh on the car, what with the intense heat and dusty conditions,” said Karol Duda, Director of Business Development at Troton.
“Applying Braytprotect a car’s exterior from road dirt and the sun’s harmful UV rays.Polishing systems are recommended for fresh and old paint coatings and easily removes scratches and traces ensuring the achievement of the perfect glossy finish. Optimal modern formulation prevents surface overheating and allows for easy cleaning.
“The Rangers bed liner is designed to protect the underbodies of vehicles to be used on wheel house liners, tub liners, fender flares, bumper bars and industrial applications. We started out as an easy way for truck owners to protect their cargo area, however it’s grown to be more than that. Today, Rangers is in use in all kinds of industries from automotive restoration, off-roaders,bikes, agricultural, and even with heavy equipment,”Duda added.
A key returning highlight to Automechanika Dubai 2019 this week is the Innovation Zone, a dedicated area at the centre of the show floor featuring presentations and product showcases from exhibitors such as Wabcoand FSE that are steering the course for the regional and global automotive aftermarket.
Other features include the Truck Competence initiative, where 1,260 exhibitors are showcasing their products dedicated to the entire value chain in the truck sector, from truck parts and accessories, to workshop equipment, body repairs and care.
The Automechanika Academy (AA) also returns, featuring key presentations such as Dubai’s auto parts and accessories trade in 2018 by the Dubai Customs, along with the findings of a survey exploring innovations in the Middle East automotive industry by global research company Explori.
Other AA highlights include a series of sessions by AMENA and Tiqani, as well as AfriConnections, which explores rising opportunities in the African aftermarket.
I had
been a member of Pakistan business delegates during 26 April to 28 April 2019 in
China organize Belt and Road Forum at Beijing. The Belt and Road Initiative is
a grand strategy to manage global deficits, platform for international
cooperation and an internationally acclaimed and public good.
Countries
heads, diplomats and politicians from Pakistan, Russia, Turkey, Malaysia,
Indonesia, Hungary, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Mongolia,
Tajikistan, Cyprus, Uzbekistan, The Philippines, Kenya. Serbia, Egypt, Papua
New Guinea, United States, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Cuba, Austria and list goes
on..
Twenty-nine
international organizations and 126 countries, including developed and
developing nations, have signed 174 cooperation documents with China on the
BRI. From 2013 it has been transformed from an ambitious plan into concrete
results. The trade volume between China and countries and regions participating
in the BRI has excesses $6 trillion, according to the National Development and
Reform Commission, the country’s top macro-economic regulator.
FDI
in the countries along the Belt and Road has increased. According to Ministry
of Commerce (china) data, from 2013 to 2018 Chinese enterprises invested more
then $ 90 billion in countries along with the BRI at average annual growth rate
of 5.2 percent. The investments in BRI projects have not only boosted global
investment, but also created more growth.
According
to a world Bank research report, the transportation projects under the
initiative’s framework, once completed, will reduce the shipment time and trade
costs for BRI between 1.7 percent and 3.2 percent, and 1.5 and 2.8 percent. The
initiative will also help increase actual income growth in local areas by 1.2
to 3.4 percent and global income growth by 0.7 to 2.9 percent.
Just
three days, more than $64 billion in deals were signed at second Belt and Road
Forum, parties reached 283 pragmatic outcomes, including intergovernmental
cooperation agreements, cooperative projects and the launch of multilateral
cooperation platforms. That show Belt and Road conforms to the trend of the
times, wining the hearts of the people, improving livelihood and benefiting the
whole world.
(Reference from The author is the founder of the centre for China and
Globalization, a Beijing-based non-governmental think thank. CHINA Daily )
CHINA President point of view:-
President
China Mr. Xi said BRI is an initiative for economic cooperation, rather than a
geopolitical alliance or military league. It is an open and inclusive process
rather than an exclusive bloc to differentiate countries by ideology or play a
zero-sum game. Belt and Road construction should pursue higher-quality
development. This requires more efforts to properly address key issues, such as
major projects, financial sup-port, investment environment, security and risk
management with focus on infrastructure construction and production capacity
cooperation.
The
results from the BRI open up more space for global economic growth build a
platform for international cooperation and make new contributions to the
building of community with a shared future for mankind.
BRI
cooperation projects will be market-based. To ensure sustainable development,
the leaders agreed to promote a level playing field for business communities
and create a
non-discriminatory business environment.
Countries Leader point of view:-
Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic said
firmly supports and proactively takes part in Belt and Road cooperation and the
major cooperation projects including a Chinese-invested steel plant and has
greatly promoted the economic development id Serbia.
United Arab Emirates: Vice-President
and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the visit by Mr.
Xi last year was a huge success and provided a boost for the development of
bilateral ties.
Indonesia: Vice President Jusuf Kalla
said his country stands ready to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in trade.
Investment and education, and promote cooperation in Indonesia regional
comprehensive economic corridors.
Malaysia: Prime Minsiter Mahathir
Mohammad said Malaysia will move China ties to a higher level. The BRI not only
helps solve problems of infrastructure connectivity, but also helps address
unbalance development, the initiative is conducive to promoting dialogue
between different culture, and eliminating such problems as conflicts,
extremism and terrorism.
Belarus: President Alexander Lukashenko
said Belarus trusts China wholeheartedly and will remain a trustworthy friend
of China and hopes the China-Belarus industrial park will be helpful in
promoting the joint building of Belt and Road in the Eurasian region.
Kenya: President Uhuru Kenyatta said
the Belt and Road has enabled different countries to establish even closer
trade connections and partnerships, and it has been widely recognized by the
international community. It has also helped promote the connectivity and
industrialization process of Africa countries.
Egypt: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi
said The first Arab country to have established diplomatic ties with China
hopes to align closely its development plans with the BRI and is committed to
deepening Africa-China cooperation. Egypt highly commends china for upholding
justice in the Middle East issue and hopes China continues to play a
constructive role.
BRI 2 – Key features announced:-
Zones Developments:
China
plans to further advance the building of economic and trade cooperation zones
in countries and regions related to the Belt and Road Initiative. The country will set up new zones in Pakistan
(Haier-Ruba Economic Zone) Africa (China-Egypt Suez Economic and Trade
Cooperation Zone), China-Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), Southeast Asia,
South Asia, Middle East, Eastern Europe and Latin America.
China Railway Express (CRE) :
The
train, branded under the “China Railway Express (Changdu)” banner, passed
through Germany, Poland, Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan, and entered China
through the Alashankou port in Xinjing Uygur autonomous region. CRE has linked
25 overseas cities and 14 Chinese cities. It has seven international railway
channels and 5 international rail-sea combined channels to further open up
city. Chengdu geographical advantages and key role in future.
Air Silk Road:
Transport
hub in Central China, Henan province is taking advantage of its location to
further develop air transportation. Over the past few years Luxembourg and Henan
have maintained robust development in trade and have established a long-term
partnership with construction of the Air Silk Road. Henan should deepen
cooperation with Luxembourg and other European countries. That will bolster its
transportation advantage in fields including expanding its network of routes,
cultivating special industries and exchanging economic and cultural experience,
which will be helpful to construct the Air Silk Road and participate in the
BRI.
Green Belt and Road
Initiative:
Chinese
green bond market became the second largest in the world – after the united
Sates- with the issuance of $ 30 billion. China has accumulated experience in
mixing policy and finance for green transport and developed leading green
mobility technologies, particularly in electric vehicles mobility. These
experiences, for example from Shenzhen that financed and now operates 17,000
electric buses and 4,600 electric taxies, or from China Railway Corporation
that invested in the construction and operation of the 29,000 kilometre high
speed rail network can be useful for greening the BRI.
Who Lead by Banking
Initiative:
The
initiative is aimed at boosting global growth, it should have a more inclusive
definition. Belt and Road International Development Plan to emphasize its overarching economic goal and remove
doubts that China is using it as a tool to expend its influence across the
world, there is a need to strengthen cooperation between China and
international organizations under the Belt and Road framework, in order to
enhance overall multilateral cooperation. For instance, the Asian
Infrastructure Investment Bank model could be used to better collaborate with
World Bank, Asian Development Bank, African Development, Inter- American
Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and other
regional and international banks and to provide loans for Belt and Road
projects.
Global Scientific
Cooperation:
China’s
scientific out reach, the nation will need stronger government planning and
support, as well as better management and services to over come cultural and
legal barriers.
The
Chinese Academy of Sciences launched the Alliance of International Science
Organizations, the first organization created to connect the scientific
communities of participants in the BRI with the goal of improving scientific
cooperation, sharing knowledge and promoting sustainable development. The first
37 members of the alliance recently published and action plan for 2019-20. They
plan establish a prize for contributing to scientific cooperation within the
BRI. New scholarship programs, subsidiary groups on specific issues and new
joint talent-training programs.
China-Pakistan Joint
Research Center on earth Sciences
CAS Innovation Cooperation
in Bangkok
China-Brazil Joint
Laboratory for Space Weather
South America Center for
Astronomy – Chile
China-Sri Lanka Joint
Center for Education and Research
Sino-Africa Joint Research
Center – Kenya
Southeast Asia Biodiversity
Research Institute – Myanmar
Kathmandu Center for Research
and Education – Nepal
Central Asian Center of
Drug Discovery and Development – Uzbekistan
Research Center for Ecology
and environment of Central Asia – Kazakhstan
Chinese artificial intelligence technology demand increased
in Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
(Reference fromCHINA DailyNewspaper)
Pakistan ready to grab
this opportunity:
During
the BRI – 2, I observed a lot of countries want to be part of this initiative,
those who already are a part of this, are trying to transfer advantages to
their own community.
We
are pioneer partner of this initiative, and a key stake holder as GAWADER and
the route that runs in from Pakistan will give access to the rest of the world
but somehow, we are near but not ready to getting the true potential of this
initiative.
We
don’t have a level playing field in any industry, the trade deficit between the
two countries is huge and we have to closely be studied and researched to
position our industries in China to get maximum benefit. With the trade wars in
place, and Pak China relations on full scale, Pakistan has an opportunity to
penetrate in many areas.
Businessman:
I
really appreciated our businessman who went with the delegation on self-finance
and tried to create liaison with Chinese companies and signed MOU’s. More than
19 projects were signed between the two countries. I would like to advise our businessman,
to start preparing and do not be part of these delegations if you have not done
your homework. It is really important to have a plan. During the discussions I
felt a lack of knowledge and direction. Our businessmen
are really depending entirely on the government which is not the correct
strategy.
Zones Development:
When
I look at our zone developmentit really breaks my heart, I cannot estimate how
our businessman will survive. Government departments are not aligned with each
other and businessmen getting loses. Currently
there are huge gaps with what is being portrayed and the ground realities that
exist in the SEZs of Pakistan. At the moment companies are fighting and running
from pillar to post to get basic necessities like Energy, tax exemptions,
approvals etc. Second most interesting factor is the basic objective of the
SEZs is to attract foreign investment like many developed countries have done
in their economic infancy days. Currently SEZs are opening throughout the South
Asian region, many developing countries are opting for this model. Their
economic indicators are much better than ours then how will the government be
able to attract and fill its economic zones? We need to upgrade our Ease of
Doing Business Index. This will also help and create an environment of trust
for our domestic direct investment to start investing.
Railway:
After
14 years we have a chance to update our railway systems, new routes, and
increase efficiency. This Is a basic pillar for development of country to save
time from port to plant and it ismoreeconomically to transfer the cargo. The
Railway network and system has played a vital role in the development of many
nations. Our Ministers signed M1 project and start study M2 during this time
hope results will come positively.
Air Link Development:
Last 10 years we have not developed any remarkable
international airport. Pakistan really
needs to step up the process of opening airports in remote regions where
economic activity needs to be diverted. This is a huge step what is the plan of
the government to make it successful.
Green Belt
Development :
Our government has done a good job and we must appreciate the
million trees to make. We need to do more onECO City developments. All of our
environment protection laws and organizations need to be reactivated to ensure
that the future is safe for our children.
Our policies and practices need to reflect environmentally friendly.
Our Banks:
I
have experienced to meet our bankers at Beijing, I was totally shocked they are
not aggressively working to be strong partner of BRI projects to facilitate our
Large &SME businessman, I would
suggest to start the B2B from the finance industry. But it doesn’t mean perception will be same here B2B means
Bankers and Businessman to select as best projects and involves as a nation, to
build and Road Projects for peoples of
Pakistan .
Sciences and Technology:
I am also surprised BRI doing scholarship but from our sides
who get these benefits and what outcomes for the nation I lack to understand
and see. We should start thinking out of the BOX and we need Mr. Atta ur
Rehmans to come back on the team and
this time we will need taking initiatives from the infant stages of education.
Conclusions:
The government needs
to Plan, take action and keep a strong follow up on all activities, it will
have to take the business community on board, invite technocrats and get this
ball rolling. We need to set goals and start the hard work to achieve them. It
is a long dark road with a ray of hope along the way but a prosperous and
One nation and one goal to build our self for the world to provide best serving services, industry, trades, communication and IT.
By Mashood Khan / Director Export / Mehran Commercial Enterprises
Road traffic accidents have emerged as an important public health issue which needs to be tackled by a multi-disciplinary approach. The trend of injuries and death is becoming alarming in Pakistan. The number of fatal and disabling road accident happening is increasing day by day and is a real public health challenge for all the concerned agencies to prevent it. The approach to implement the rules and regulations available to prevent road accidents is often ineffective and half-hearted. Awareness creation, strict implementation of traffic rules, and scientific engineering measures are the need of the hour to prevent this public health catastrophe. This article is intended to create awareness among the health professionals about the various modalities available to prevent road accidents and also to inculcate a sense of responsibility toward spreading the message of road safety as a good citizen of our country.
Multiple distractions, risk factors A number of risk factors unique to the teen driver increase the likelihood of crashes.
Teens lack experience, may drive at unsafe speeds and maintain shorter following distances, especially with friends in Pakistan. They can be distracted visually (eyes off the road), manually (removing one’s hands from controls) and cognitively (attention diverted from driving). Electronic devices, such as cellphones, can create all three distractions, a major threat to driver safety. Having friends as passengers also creates distraction.
Use of alcohol, illicit substances and certain medications can impair driving. Although alcohol remains the most common ingested substance resulting in crashes and fatalities for teens, drug-impaired driving is a growing concern, with cannabinoids the most commonly detected substance.
Sleep deprivation also is an emerging factor in motor vehicle crashes, as most Pakistani teens do not get enough sleep. The statement discusses the impact of adolescent brain development and its effect on teen drivers.
Improper Turns, the reason that we have stop lights, turn signals, and lanes designated for moving either right or left as opposed to straight is because when drivers ignore the rules of the road, car accidents are often the result. To prevent a car accident, always look for signs and obey the proper right-of-way before you make a turn.
Road Rage, everyone has been angry at another driver for one reason or another, but some drivers let their rage overcome them. By tailgating another driver in anger or speeding past another driver only to pull in front of them and brake, these road “ragers” cause many needless car accidents each year.
Ignorance of fasten seat belt, is the major cause of deaths during crashes Seat-belts can help to save lives. They are important safety features that, like air bags, help to protect a driver or passenger in a collision and minimize injuries. Those who do not wear their seat-belts while in a vehicle put themselves at greater risk of severe injury or even death. It’s been proven time and again, on back roads and superhighways: A seat belt can save a life in a car accident. According to the National Highway Authority Pakistan (NHA), more than 10,000 lives are saved each year in Pakistan because drivers and their passengers were wearing seat belts when they were in accidents.
Things to always remember for safe ride Buckle up for the love of your life • Always wear your seat-belts • Obey all speed limits and signs. • Be attentive and drive responsibly. • Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Understand the safe braking distance. • Before driving a car, do a simple safety check. … • When you get into the car, adjust all mirrors and seats before placing the key in the ignition. • Avoid hard braking, acceleration, and cornering
Eight Pakistani companies are exhibiting at Automechanika which is to be held in Dubai. The event will begin on June 10th and conclude on June 12th.
Automechanicka Dubai is one of the biggest exhibitions related to all automobile; be it auto-parts, auto accessories, tyres, batteries, auto machinery and business solutions etc. Therefore, this will be the 17th exhibition held in Dubai.
Auto industry is a sector that has witnessed major growth in the recent years. Hence Pakistani companies focuses on value addition exports which includes auto parts to contribute to this growing sector.
Last year, this exhibition saw a record participation of 1801 exhibitors from over 61 countries. Moreover, around 31,971 people visited from 146 countries whereas 23 official country pavilions were also part of the show. Even from Pakistan, 600 visitors were present at the exhibition last year.
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is arranging a national pavilion in the exhibition in order to represent the eight companies from Pakistan. Few of the companies namely Century Engineering, Ghauri Tyres & Tubes, Multi-tech Engineering, Super Horn and Pakistan Accumulators are going under Pakistani pavilion whereas Daewoo Battery, Panther Tyres and Rastgar Engineering are has their own booth at exhibition ground.
Pakistan Auto Spare Parts Importers & Dealers Association (PASPIDA) has also arranged a delegation in order for their executive members to visit the fair in Dubai.
According to company sources Regal Automobiles, assemblers of Prince Vehicles in Pakistan are opening booking of Pearl in July-2019.
Pearl will be available to the customers in September-2019 while price of the vehicles has not announced yet.
Company has been almost ready to produce and assemble this vehicle in Pakistan at the assembly plant in Lahore. Few units of the Prince Pearl 800cc hatchback car already reached to Lahore for test drive and marketing purpose as per available information.
Specifications: Prince Pearl 800cc hatchback car – 796cc water-cooled – EFI engine – 40 horsepower – 60 Nm torque – Ground clearance: 145mm – Turning radius: 4.5m – Gross weight: 735 Kg – Fuel Type: Petrol – Steering Type: Rack and Pinion with Electric Motor – Fuel tank capacity: 27L – Mileage City: 22 KM/L – Mileage on Highway: 25 KM/L – Transmission Type: Manual and Auto – Seating Capacity: 5 persons – Top Speed: 120-130 KM/H – Front Wheel-drive – Brakes: Front: Discs, Rear: Drums – Suspension: Front: McPherson independent; Rear: Coil Spring – Tyres: 155/65R13 etc
Prince Pearl Features – Power window – Central locking
Modern-looking LCD
Power steering
Seat-belts
Aluminium Rims
Air conditioner
Heater
Fog Lamps
Retractable Mirrors/Power Mirrors
About Regal Automobiles:
Regal Automobile Industries Limited (RAIL), country’s third-largest bike assembler, has set up an assembly plant in Lahore with an investment over Rs800 million to produce light commercial vehicles and vans from April 2018.
The company has signed a technical collaboration agreement with China’s DFSK Group to assemble vehicles under the name Prince.
The Ministry of Industries (MoI) earlier in February in last year had awarded a manufacturing license to RAIL.
DUE TO POOR SALES IN THE EXECUTIVE SEDAN SEGMENT AND MORE AND MORE CUSTOMERS BUYING COMPACT AND MID-SIZED SUVS, TOYOTA HAS ANNOUNCED THE DISCONTINUATION OF THE COROLLA ALTIS FROM APRIL, 2020.
A rather shocking news, but Toyota will be discontinuing the Corolla Altis executive sedan in the Indian market from April 2020, when the BS-VI emission norms come into effect. Toyota also had plans of sharing the Corolla Altis with Maruti Suzuki as part of product sharing deal where a Suzuki-badged Corolla Altis would have sold through the Nexa outlets. With this decision, a Suzuki-badged Corolla Altis will never see the light of day either.
With more and more consumers moving to compact SUV and mid-size SUV segments, the sales of executive sedans have seen a sharp decline. Even Suzuki had second thoughts about how successful a Suzuki-badged Corolla Altis would have been in a dying segment of cars. Toyota was also doubtful that the brand strength may not stretch enough to be able to garner healthy margins.
In the financial year 2019, all the executive sedans witnessed a decline in sales by 30%. This includes the Toyota Corolla Altis, the Hyundai Elantra and the Skoda Octavia. Ironically though, Toyota sold 2,783 units of the Corolla Altis, finishing at the top of the segment. However, the overall numbers are still quite small and there does not seem to be much potential from a Suzuki-badged Corolla Altis as the segment itself has not been doing good at all. Toyota therefore sees no viable reason to upgrade the car or bring a new version of the sedan to India.
The Toyota Corolla Altis comes with a 1.4L diesel engine and a 1.8L petrol engine. With the BS-VI emission norms kicking in next year, there was no point upgrading the BS-IV compliant Corolla Altis to the BS-VI specifications as that would call for heavy development costs and the sales anyway aren’t enough to justify that. Also, the diesel Altis constituted a significant portion of sales for the Altis. With the diesel gone, there was no reason to keep the Corolla Altis anyway.
On last week Honorable Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan inaugurates phase 1 production facility of JwForland truck assembly plant in Lahore. CM Punjab, Governor Punjab, Information Minister and many other high level government officials were with him on that special visit and on ceremony.
Imran Khan says Pakistan will soon be exporting ‘Pakistan-made’ vehicles. He has stated that Lahore’s JwForland Manufacturing facility would roll out autos totally Made in Pakistan, with even their spares being constructed regionally.
Addressing the ceremony right here, the premier lauded Faisal and Javed Afridi, the owner of JwForland Pakistan, for his proactive efforts to herald foreign investment and technical assistance for increasing the manufacturing facility’s operations.
He stated that Pakistan wouldn’t solely meet its automobile necessities however it should additionally export Pakistan-made autos. “We now have to take away all obstacles in approach of international traders, as solely international funding can resolve Pakistan’s financial disaster”, stated PM Khan. He additionally stated that he was trying ahead to the manufacturing of electrical automobiles within the JW Forland plant within the in future which would “resolve Lahore’s air pollution downside”.
South Korea’s transport ministry on Sunday issued recall orders for 11,500 units of 58 different imported cars, including those from BMW, Volkswagen and Honda.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said 2,461 units of Germany-based carmaker BMW’s 320d and 116i models will be recalled, citing battery problems.
Around 2,000 units of 22 different BMW models, including the 523i, will also be recalled over heater issues.
Another 2,000 units of seven Volkswagen models, including the Golf 1.4 TSI, will be recalled due to potential flaws in their transmissions.
Four models of Audi, including the TT Coupe 45 TFSI Quattro, will be recalled for using defective air bags produced by Japan’s Takata.
The recall involves defective inflators in Takata air bags that may deploy improperly during crashes, shooting metal fragments into the driver and passengers.
Two models of Japan-based Honda, including the Accord, will also be recalled over the air bag issue, covering some 1,300 units. (Yonhap)
