Automotive
smart and AW Rostamani Group Partner to Launch Premium Electric Vehicles in the UAE
smart, the iconic premium intelligent all-electric auto brand, has made a bold entry into the UAE market in partnership with AW Rostamani Group, one of the UAE’s leading family business groups whose automotive vertical has been servicing UAE consumers’ mobility needs for more than 50 years. The highly anticipated launch event took place on Monday 21st October 2024 at the prestigious Armani Hotel, Dubai, against the impressive backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
The launch event is a key pillar of smart‘s global flagship brand introduction, establishing “open your mind” as its claim. By introducing a range of cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs), smart and AW Rostamani Group aim to redefine the future of driving in the region, highlighting what premium means in the EV space with a key focus on modern, sustainable engineering, and exceptional customer experience.

The debut of the smart #1 and smart #3 models at the event is aligned with smart’s core values of “contemporary premium,” “mindful technology,” and “inspirational co-creation.” These brand fundamentals are embodied through the exquisite features of the EV lineup and the premium customer experience. The smart #1 and #3 models offer three trims: Pro+, Premium, and Brabus, the latter featuring performance enhancements such as the Brabus #3’s 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds.
The smart #1 is a sport utility vehicle with a spacious, high-tech interior, while the smart #3 is a sport-utility coupe with a striking shark-nose design and sporty curves. Both models come in a variety of colours, allowing customers to enjoy the sophistication of the Brabus trim.
The strategic partnership with AW Rostamani Group, augmented by the combined strengths of Mercedes-Benz and Geely, marks an exciting chapter as smart brings these trendsetting EVs to a country that is diverse and embraces both heritage and innovation, signifying a step towards the UAE’s vision of sustainable, zero-emission mobility. This presents a unique opportunity for existing Mercedes owners in UAE to complement their existing vehicles with the new product range from smart.

Michel Ayat, CEO of AWR Automotive, stated, “We are thrilled to bring smart to the UAE market at such a pivotal time for sustainable mobility. Through our partnership, we are aligning smart’s slogan “open your mind” with the UAE’s green initiatives. Our shared vision of contemporary premium and mindful technology ensures that our customers experience unparalleled sleek modern design and sustainability, redefining their expectations for electric vehicles in the UAE.”
Yen Fong Raad, GM of smart Mobility at AWR, added: “The smart brand has a rich heritage, coupled with the combined strengths of Mercedes Benz and Geely Group, we are positioned to take the UAE market by storm. With AW Rostamani Group’s decades of success in automotive leadership in the UAE market where diversity, culture, innovation and businesses thrive, the stars have aligned for us to open our mind to greater heights together.”
Mandy Zhang, Global CMO of smart Automobile, remarked: “smart is on a drive to achieve new heights of development. ‘open your mind’ is more than just a brand claim – it’s a philosophy that guides every innovation and decision. Launching the smart #1 and #3 in Dubai, where special heritage meets cutting-edge technology, mirrors our vision perfectly. We look forward to working with AW Rostamani to help transform urban lifestyles for our customers with creativity, sustainability, and like Dubai’s architecture, a continuous push towards new heights of excellence and innovation.”
As electric vehicles continue to gain traction in the UAE, smart and AWR Group are poised to accelerate the movement towards UAE’s vision for net zero emission by 2050 as well as AW Rostamani Group’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework.
Automotive
BMW Motorrad Middle East and AGMC showcase next-generation frontline motorcycles at Intersec 2026.
BMW Motorrad Middle East along with AGMC, the authorised importer of BMW Group vehicles for Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, showcases BMW Motorrad’s latest Authority and Protection motorcycles at Intersec 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for security, safety and fire protection, taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Intersec brings together global leaders, government entities and industry experts to explore the technologies shaping the future of public safety and emergency response. As part of this year’s exhibition, there is a lineup of BMW Motorrad motorcycles specifically engineered to support frontline and authority operations across diverse and demanding environments in the emirate.
Purpose-built authority motorcycles on display
On display at the BMW Motorrad and AGMC stand are the four BMW Motorrad Authority models, each designed to deliver reliability, performance and adaptability in real-world operational conditions:
BMW R 1300 RT-P
The BMW R 1300 RT-P is a touring-focused authority motorcycle designed for high-performance patrol duties and everyday operational versatility. It combines excellent ergonomics and long-distance comfort with outstanding maneuverability in urban traffic. Powered by BMW’s 1,300 cc ShiftCam boxer engine delivering 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, the RT-P provides strong, efficient performance and high stability for demanding authority use.
BMW R 1300 GS-P
The BMW R 1300 GS-P is a highly capable all-terrain authority motorcycle built for operation across mixed and challenging environments. Its air/liquid-cooled 1,300 cc boxer engine produces 145 hp and 149 Nm of torque, ensuring confident performance on and off road. Advanced rider assistance systems support stability, safety and control, making the GS-P a reliable platform for complex operational requirements.
BMW F 900 GS-P
The BMW F 900 GS-P is a versatile enduro motorcycle designed for authority operations on asphalt and unpaved surfaces. Its parallel-twin engine delivers strong, controllable performance, while the lightweight design and 14.5-litre plastic fuel tank contribute to improved handling and operational efficiency. The F 900 GS-P offers a balanced combination of agility, rider comfort and safety-focused technology.
BMW F 800 GS-P
The BMW F 800 GS-P is a proven midsize adventure motorcycle offering efficient performance and confident handling. With an output of 87 hp and a balanced chassis, it delivers dependable capability without excessive fuel consumption. Its manageable weight and rider-focused ergonomics support safe, controlled operation in demanding situations.
Steve Noon, Head of BMW Motorrad Middle East, said: “At BMW Motorrad we take pride in delivering purpose-built motorcycles that support law enforcement agencies in carrying out their duties with confidence and precision. Our ongoing commitment to innovation and rider-focused engineering has established BMW Motorrad as a trusted and leading choice for authority fleets in the region.”
Muhamet Latifi, General Manager for BMW Motorrad at AGMC, commented: “The participation of AGMC with BMW Motorrad Middle East at intersec 2026 reinforces our ongoing commitment to delivering specialised mobility solutions for authority and government partners. By combining advanced engineering, rider-focused technology and adaptable performance, BMW Motorrad’s Authority motorcycles continue to set benchmarks in reliability and operational readiness.”
Intersec is currently underway at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with visitors invited to experience BMW Motorrad’s Authority and Protection range firsthand throughout the exhibition.
Automotive
NIO Inc. Provides December, Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025 Delivery Update: Achieving a New Record-High Monthly and Quarterly Deliveries
In December 2025, NIO Inc. delivered 48,135 vehicles globally, marking a new monthly record and representing a year-on-year increase of 54.6%. The NIO brand delivered 31,897 vehicles, achieving a historic high with 54.8% year-on-year growth, and recording five consecutive months of growth. The ONVO brand delivered 9,154 vehicles in December. The firefly brand delivered 7,084 vehicles, reaching a new monthly record, with a month-on-month increase of 16.4%, and attaining five consecutive months of growth.
In the fourth quarter of 2025, NIO Inc. achieved record-high quarterly deliveries of 124,807 vehicles, representing a 71.7% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the NIO brand reached 67,433 vehicles, marking an all-time high and a 27.8% year-over-year growth. The ONVO brand delivered 38,290 vehicles in the fourth quarter, posting a 92.1% year-over-year increase. Deliveries of the firefly brand totaled 19,084 in the fourth quarter, achieving a record high and representing a 52.8% quarter-over-quarter increase.
In 2025, NIO Inc. delivered a total of 326,028 vehicles, representing a new annual record and a year-on-year increase of 46.9%. Total deliveries of the NIO brand reached 178,806. The ONVO brand delivered 107,808 in 2025, hitting a record high. The firefly brand delivered 39,414 vehicles for the year.
As of today, NIO Inc. has cumulatively delivered 997,592 vehicles. Cumulative deliveries of the NIO, ONVO, and firefly brands reached 829,609, 128,569, and 39,414 vehicles respectively.
Automotive
Goodyear continues support for Team De Rooy in the 2025 Dakar Rally
Goodyear continues its partnership with Team De Rooy for the upcoming Dakar Rally 2025. As the official tire supplier, Goodyear will equip the Dutch team with its high-performance Goodyear OFFROAD tires and advanced Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), helping to ensure reliable performance throughout the rally’s demanding stages. This collaboration highlights Goodyear’s dedication to truck motorsport, combining innovation with proven durability on some of the world’s toughest terrains.
Dakar 2025: new challenges await
The 2025 Dakar Rally, running from January 3 to January 17, will cover nearly 8,000 kilometers, including over 5,000 kilometers of competitive stages, starting in Bisha and finishing in Shubaytah. This edition ramps up the difficulty, featuring an early 48-hour chrono stage that flows into the marathon stage, setting a challenging pace from the outset. In the second week, competitors will tackle the demanding dunes of the Empty Quarter, with over 45% of the course on separate tracks for different vehicle classes, enhancing safety while complicating navigation.
Goodyear OFFROAD tires and TPMS: performance in challenging conditions
Team De Rooy relies on Goodyear OFFROAD tires for their durability and reliable traction across different conditions. Designed to handle heat and challenging surfaces, these tires help reduce heat buildup at high speeds and provide consistent performance on sand, rocks, and steep slopes.
Goodyear’s TPMS offers real-time monitoring of tire pressure and temperature, helping the team make quick adjustments and avoid potential issues. This advanced system helps to minimize downtime and supports better strategic decisions—crucial for maintaining momentum during the rally.
A Legacy of motorsport excellence
Goodyear’s continued support of Team De Rooy highlights its long-standing commitment to truck motorsport. As the title sponsor of the Goodyear FIA European Truck Racing Championship (ETRC), Goodyear uses motorsport as a proving ground for tire technology advancements. The partnership with Team De Rooy reflects this commitment, driving innovation and performance in demanding environments.
Maciej Szymański, Marketing Director Commercial EMEA at Goodyear, commented:
“Our continued collaboration with Team De Rooy for Dakar 2025 underscores our commitment to supporting motorsport teams in extreme conditions. With Goodyear OFFROAD tires and TPMS, we aim to provide the reliability needed to tackle the rally’s challenges. We wish Team De Rooy all the best and look forward to another exciting competition at this iconic rally”.

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