Automotive
VISION EQXX once again delivers groundbreaking energy efficiency of 7.4 kWh/100 km[1] on electric journey from Riyadh to Dubai

On its third long-distance road trip over 1,000+ kilometres, the VISION EQXX technology programme demonstrated that even the Arabian Desert is no obstacle to energy efficiency. On a challenging route profile encompassing busy city streets and open desert, the pioneering test vehicle delivered electric power consumption of 7.4 kWh/100km (8.4 mi/kWh)1. This equates to an equivalent of around 0.9 l/100 km or 282 MPGe for a petrol-fuelled vehicle. In ambient temperatures of up to 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), the VISION EQXX beat its own previous best by a considerable margin.
“With an exceptional consumption of just 7.4 kWh/100 km1, the VISION EQXX continues to provide valuable data for ongoing development of advanced electric efficiency technologies. As expected, all systems performed perfectly in the desert conditions, handling challenges such as road surface finish and temperature as well as dust with ease. Further proof that electric drive is ready for global markets.” Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer
“Embarking on an electric drive from Riyadh to Dubai isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about igniting a transformative journey for the Middle East. The VISION EQXX’s groundbreaking drive from Riyadh to Dubai not only symbolizes our commitment to shaping the future of mobility but also fills me with immense pride that this record was achieved in the region. In navigating this transformative path, we’re setting new benchmarks, reinforcing our technology leadership in electric mobility.” Michael Stroband, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East.
Third VISION EQXX trip tests efficiency in the Middle East
The starting point for the efficiency drive on the Arabian Peninsula was the Mercedes-Benz Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The destination was the recently opened Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai, UAE. The route of 1,010 km (627.6 miles) was completed in a total driving time of 14 hours and 42 minutes. Having left Riyadh at 4:15 a.m. with a full battery, the VISION EQXX still had 309 kilometres (192 miles) of range left when it arrived in Dubai at 7:57 p.m. The route incorporated urban and sub-urban sections in Riyadh and Dubai with heavy traffic as well as lengthy highway sections across the open desert.
Further chance to test technology features such as thermal management and solar roof
The VISION EQXX has twice proven its ability to cover well over 1,000 kilometres on a single charge (Sindelfingen – Cassis and Untertürkheim – Silverstone). The purpose of this third road trip was to maximise efficiency in all areas and examine system performance under extreme desert conditions. Of particular interest in the dry desert heat of up to 34 degrees Celsius was the car’s advanced thermal management. The intelligent on-demand system kept the electric drivetrain and the cabin cool. The air conditioning system was operational during the trip with minimal negative impact on energy efficiency thanks in part to the multi-source heat pump. A further developed version of this heat pump is integrated into the Concept CLA Class unveiled at IAA Mobility 2023. This close-to-production concept previews the model family based on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) and benefits from wide-ranging technology transfer from the VISION EQXX.
The relentless desert sun also gave engineers the opportunity to examine closely the performance of the solar roof on the VISION EQXX. The 117 solar cells are used to power many of the ancillaries, reducing the energy drain on the high-voltage system and further improving overall efficiency. On the drive to Dubai, the system harvested 1.8 kWh of solar energy, adding approx. 24 km to overall range. Research continues into the series-production benefits of this technology. Also relevant for comparative analysis with previous test drives were the data gathered on the influence of wind and sun on efficiency. As well as the temperature of the sun, measurements even include the angle and direction of sunlight.
Teamwork between driver and intelligent assistant maximises energy efficiency
One of the most important factors in the efficiency of any vehicle is and remains the person behind the wheel. The driving team on the efficiency trip are highly experienced experts with specific testing tasks. To help maximise energy efficiency, they took full advantage of the car’s intelligent efficiency assistant. It curates a wide range of available information and suggests the most efficient driving style in real time. This includes data such as the direction and intensity of the sun and wind. For instance, during challenging crosswinds along the coast in the UAE, the system helped the drivers adjust their speed accordingly. For maximum solar yield during stops, the team parked the VISION EQXX in alignment with the sun using the solar information display (Tech View).
An important global ambassador for electric mobility that pairs efficiency with luxury
More than two years after it was unveiled, the VISION EQXX remains an eye-catching crowd puller. During that time, it has also covered 23,340 kilometres (14,503 miles) testing its pioneering electric technology under a wide range of demanding real-life conditions. In a region often associated with super sports cars and full-size SUVs, the compact dimensions and sleek proportions of the VISION EQXX drew intense interest. The slippery drag coefficient of just 0.17 pairs with a sophisticated fastback design to represent a highly desirable ambassador for electric mobility. Likewise, with charging infrastructure still sparse in many parts of the world, this was a valuable opportunity to demonstrate long-range electric efficiency under real-life conditions. Another important aspect of the Mercedes-Benz electrification strategy.
In addition to the two previous road trips in Europe, Mercedes-Benz has also taken the VISION EQXX to audiences in the US and China. This has given key global target groups the chance to experience for themselves a realistic, road-going example of luxurious and sustainable electric efficiency.
VISION EQXX: the trip log in figures
Start | Mercedes-Benz Center, Riyadh, 8 March 2024, 4:15 a.m. (AST) |
Arrival | Mercedes-Benz Brand Center, Dubai, 8 March 2024, 7:57 p.m. (GST) |
Travel route | Riyadh, Haradh, Al Batha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai |
Driving distance | 1,010 km (627.6 miles) |
Total travel time / in motion | 14:42 h / 12:45 h |
Ave. speed | 68.7 km/h (42.7 mph) including vehicle static (1:57 h due to border crossing and driver change) 79.4 km/h (49.3 mph) in motion |
Max. speed | 140 km/h (87 mph) |
Ave. consumption | 7.4 kWh/100km (8.4 mi/kWh)1, equalling around 0.9 l/100 km or 282 MPGefor a petrol-fuelled vehicle |
VISION EQXX technology programme: the most important technical data at a glance
Battery energy content | kWh | <100 |
Rated voltage | Volts | >900 |
Cd value | 0.17 | |
Front face | m2 | 2.12 |
Power | kW | 180 |
Wheelbase | mm | 2,800 |
Length/width/height | mm | 4,975/1,870/1,348 |
Unladen vehicle weight | kg | 1,755 |
Automotive
OMODA & JAECOO Bring Next-Gen Driving to Al Wahda Mall with Immersive Pop-Up Activation

Automotive innovation meets urban flair as OMODA & JAECOO launch an exciting new campaign activation at Al Wahda Mall, offering visitors a first-hand experience of their boldest models yet. Running throughout June, the pop-up invites the public to discover and test drive the cutting-edge OMODA C5, the versatile JAECOO J7, and the powerful JAECOO J8 — all under one roof.
Strategically located in one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest lifestyle hubs, the OMODA & JAECOO pop-up is more than just a car display — it’s an immersive journey into the future of driving. The space blends striking vehicle showcases with interactive experiences, allowing guests to explore the design, technology, and performance that define these new-age vehicles.

“This activation is more than a showcase — it’s a celebration of what’s next in the world of driving,” said Saj Jabbar, General Manager of MAHY Khoory Automotive. “We’re inviting customers to get behind the wheel, experience the innovation firsthand, and become part of a new era in automotive excellence. Whether it’s the bold design of the OMODA C5 or the adventurous appeal of the JAECOO lineup, there’s something here to excite every kind of driver.”
Designed to spark curiosity and engagement, the campaign caters to a wide audience — from first-time buyers and SUV enthusiasts to anyone eager to explore the buzz surrounding OMODA & JAECOO. With dedicated brand experts on site, visitors can enjoy personalized consultations and in-depth insights throughout the activation.
This month-long event at Al Wahda Mall is a rare chance to explore the latest in smart mobility and stylish design — right in the heart of the capital.

As part of this exciting OMODA & JAECOO pop-up presentation, customers can explore the choice between two exceptional purchase offers. The first offer includes free service for 4 years or 80,000 km, free insurance, free registration, free tinting, a free warranty extension of up to 10 years or 1 million km, seven years of free roadside assistance, and free two-tone paint—offering unbeatable peace of mind and value. Alternatively, customers can choose five years of 0% finance, making next-generation driving more accessible than ever.
Event Highlights:
- Discover the OMODA C5, JAECOO J7, and JAECOO J8 up close
- Book your test drive directly at the pop-up
- Enjoy exclusive offers throughout the activation period
Interact with brand specialists for a personalized experience
Automotive
99% Faster EV Charging: NIO Redefines Electric Vehicle Charging in the UAE with 3-Minute Battery Swaps

NIO, a global leader in premium smart electric vehicles, is redefining how drivers in the UAE power their EVs with the successful deployment of its Power Swap Station technology. Offering a seamless alternative to conventional charging, NIO’s patented battery swapping technology enables users to receive a charged battery in as little as 3 minutes.
This advanced infrastructure provides a faster and more energy efficient solution compared to traditional EV charging, addressing two of the biggest challenges facing EV adoption in the UAE: long charging times and limited charger availability.
The system is fully automated, from autonomously parking inside the station, to removing and replacing the discharged battery and a complete health check is performed on the battery, motor, and electric systems. Every swapped battery is charged under optimal conditions and monitored to ensure peak performance and safety.

The five key benefits of battery swapping are:
- As fast as refuelling, a battery swap only takes 3 minutes
- Hassle-free and automated swap, without leaving the car
- Every swap is a health check, ensuring every battery is in Full system health check at every swap
- Optimized charging for longer battery lifespan
- A swappable battery is more easily reused or recycled
The UAE’s first Power Swap Station was officially opened in February 2025, located at Yas Marina Circuit. Since then, around 15% of NIO users in the UAE are actively battery swapping, a number which will continue to grow as more stations are added to the network. This reflects genuine user adoption and an increasing preference among local users.
Unlike conventional charging, that, due to charging curves, slows as the battery nears full capacity, battery swapping provides a charged replacement instantly. NIO Power Swap can provide a more efficient energy deliver solution for the user, eliminating delays, making electric vehicles more practical for everyday use.
Comparing swapping to charging, a 100-kilowatt-hour battery from 5% to 95% would typically take:
- 8 hours on 11kW AC – up to 99% time saving via NIO Power Swap Station
- 2 hours on 50kW DC – up to 97% time saving via NIO Power Swap Station
- 45 minutes on 120kW DC – up to 93% time saving via NIO Power Swap Station
To date, more than 1,749 kilowatt-hours of electricity have been delivered through battery swaps. Delivering the same amount of energy with a 120kW DC charger would take around 15 hours, while the Power Swap Station has done it in just 1.4 hours of total swapping time, a tenfold improvement in energy delivery time.
As demand for battery swapping continues to grow, a second NIO Power Swap Station is set to open in Dubai in the coming weeks, with further stations to follow later this year.
NIO’s Power Swap Station reinforces the brand’s alignment with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, which encourages investment in sustainable and innovative mobility solutions designed to support the UAE’s fast-growing population.
Automotive
Alessio Soligo appointed as Head of Lamborghini Middle East & Africa

Automobili Lamborghini has announced the appointment of Alessio Soligo as the new Head of Middle East & Africa, following six years in a similar role in South Europe. In his new position, Soligo will oversee sales, marketing, and after-sales operations across all 13 locations of the brand’s MEA dealership network.
Alessio Soligo joins the Middle East & Africa team following his successful tenure as Area Manager in southern Europe, responsible for Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece and Turkey. With a background in electronic engineering, he joined Lamborghini as a production engineer in 2015. His decade of diverse technical and commercial expertise gained within the company will play a pivotal role in the brand’s further growth across this important region.

Francesco Cresci, Regional Director of Europe, Middle East and Africa at Automobili Lamborghini, commented, “We are delighted to welcome Alessio Soligo as Head of Lamborghini Middle East and Africa. With a strong technical background, and proven track record of successful management in key European markets, he brings a wealth of automotive experience to the role. We are confident that his background, strategic vision and expertise will help us continue to deliver exceptional experiences to our wide range of customers in the MEA region.”
Lamborghini currently operates through 13 dealerships across the Middle East & Africa, catering to a well-established and engaged community of enthusiasts and customers. The brand continues to explore opportunities to expand its footprint in the region and further elevate the customer experience.
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