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Breaking Down the Metrics: What the Numbers Tell Us About Chinese EV Growth

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Exclusive Interview with Paige Lingwood, Insights Consultant, CARMA – Author of the “CARMA: Driving Change” report.

As Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers rapidly expand their global footprint, their media strategies are fundamentally reshaping how automotive innovation is communicated to consumers worldwide. In this exclusive interview, Paige Lingwood, Insights Consultant at CARMA and author of the “Driving Change” report, reveals how brands like BYD are capturing an unprecedented 41% of positive media coverage, while established automakers scramble to adapt their communication strategies.


How do Chinese EV brands’ media strategies differ from how traditional automakers typically approach innovation marketing?

Established brands have the ability to tether to their rich heritage, which can allude to brand loyalty and trust, while Chinese brands are currently needing to build this rapport.

Your report suggests that BYD alone generated 41% of all positive coverage. Could such media concentration around a single brand lead to distorted market expectations for other Chinese players trying to enter the EV space?

I wouldn’t necessarily say it distorts market expectations, but it does demonstrate just how much BYD is dominating coverage on behalf of Chinese brands. It also shows a level of white space that other CN OEMs have to play in with their Communications strategies, giving them the ability to understand what media are talking about in similar manners for BYD to emulate this for themselves.

How did Chinese automakers’ media resilience compare to established players during industry disruptions like chip shortages?

The Semi-Conductor shortages became a significant issue in the industry after the main wave of the COVID pandemic, therefore, this is slightly premature to the main insurgence of Chinese OEMs truly disrupting the industry. However, the incredible upcoming of Chinese automotive brands adds to the turbulence that the industry has faced over the past five or so years, having experienced COVID-19, into semi-conductor shortages, into Chinese brands shaking up the industry exponentially. It will be interesting to see what comes next!

A front three-quarter shot of a BYD Yangwang U8L parked outdoors under blue skies on a platform
BYD Yangwang U8L

What drives the UAE’s 75% innovative positioning of Chinese brands, while many other established markets remain skeptical of Chinese EVs?

UAE also supplied a large share of innovative positioning of established brands, demonstrating that media within the market are not necessarily aligning with one or the other, especially given its long-term affiliation and loyalty with some Asian legacy manufacturers. From our sampled coverage, a similar volume of media outlets highlighted both BYD and Tesla as being technologically innovative.

What do you believe Chinese automakers still underestimate in terms of building long-term brand loyalty beyond price and tech?

Long term loyalty comes with just that – longevity in the industry, something that is difficult to win over, just look at how dominant the likes of Nissan are in the UAE. We conducted a study at the end of 2024 that focused on car owners in the UAE where multiple nationals stated that they would continue purchasing the Patrol simply because it’s the Patrol – this is a very difficult mindset for other OEMs to overcome.

How are legacy OEMs interpreting this surge in media confidence for Chinese EV brands? Do you see a reactive shift in their PR and communication strategies, especially in this region?

On global scale, we have observed a substantial global shift in recent years, indicating a desire to innovate beyond conventional frameworks. For example, OEMs are shifting out of being labelled a volume brand to premium, then premium to luxury etc.

In a similar vein, more OEMs are wanting to shift to the title of “technology brand”, showcasing their innovative technological advancements. It will be interesting to see how legacy brands continue to future proof and look ahead from a technological point of view, especially when it has been proven that Chinese brands have the agility and speed to launch faster than their established counterparts.

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VOYAH Free Brings Premium Luxury EREV Design to the Emirates

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A front-angle action shot of two VOYAH FREE SUVs driven parallelly on a scenic road

VOYAH has entered the UAE with a clear ambition: to redefine modern mobility for the Emirates. Distributed exclusively by Performance Plus Motors, a homegrown mobility enabler founded in 2021, the brand brings together premium design, advanced technology and sustainable performance. More than a new automotive marque, VOYAH UAE positions itself as both a luxury EV player and a sustainability partner, aligning closely with the UAE’s vision for smart, technology-driven progress.

The brand’s design philosophy is shaped by cultural heritage and harmony with nature. At its heart lies the Kunpeng, a mythical creature from Daoist tradition that symbolises limitless ambition and the pursuit of greatness. This inspiration is reflected in VOYAH’s winged logo and in the flowing light signatures across its vehicles. The result is a design language that blends elegance, balance and innovation, uniting craftsmanship with advanced technology to create a holistic identity for the UAE market.

A front-three-quarter shot of a VOYAH FREE driven offroad through shallow waters.

Leading the charge is the VOYAH Free, an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) that embodies the promise of sustainable luxury. With a pure electric range tailored for daily commutes, the Free engages a compact petrol engine only when needed to recharge the battery on longer journeys. Drivers, therefore, enjoy the benefits of electric mobility without being restricted by charging availability, a particularly relevant solution in the Emirates, where infrastructure is developing. By delivering electric-first performance with the reassurance of extended range, the Free removes barriers to adoption and supports the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy, including the national target for half of all vehicles on the road to be hybrid or electric by mid-century.

Inside, the Free offers a distinctly premium experience. Its cabin features sustainable materials and a tri-screen digital cockpit that pairs next-generation technology with refined design. The spacious layout creates first-class comfort, ensuring that every journey feels both immersive and elegant. Ownership is enhanced with complimentary 1-year car insurance, registration, tinting, and a home wall box charger with installation. Confidence continues long term through 5 years or 100,000 km vehicle warranty, 8 years or 150,000 km battery warranty and 3 years or 60,000 km service contract. Combined with expert after-sales care and customer education, these measures provide an ownership experience that is seamless and reassuring.

An interior shot of the front cabin of a VOYAH FREE SUV

VOYAH UAE also seeks to inspire a wider shift towards sustainability in everyday life. Each Free model contributes to reducing transport-related emissions and encourages greener choices among consumers. Intelligent battery management, AI-enabled mobility, advanced safety systems and seamless connectivity all demonstrate how innovation, luxury and responsibility can progress together.

Through the Free model, VOYAH UAE and Performance Plus Motors are introducing more than a car to the Emirates – they are setting new standards for premium mobility. By combining cultural inspiration, extended-range electric innovation and uncompromising craftsmanship, VOYAH presents a vision that is both practical for today and transformative for the journeys of tomorrow.

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Metadome.ai launches AI Virtual Sales Assistant with Jameel Motors Egypt

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A rear-angle shot of an AI assistant visualized by AI

Metadome.ai, in collaboration with Jameel Motors Egypt, one of the country’s most prominent automotive distributors, has launched an AI-assisted virtual sales assistant designed to support the entire customer journey — both pre-sales and post-sales.

Jameel Motors, a key player in Egypt’s automotive market, brings decades of expertise in the mobility sector and a reputation for representing some of the world’s most recognized commercial and passenger vehicle brands. Its expansive sales and after-sales network position the company as a trusted name in delivering customer-centric innovation.

As a collaboration between two leading technology innovators, Jameel Motors Egypt is stepping into the future of customer engagement by bringing the power of AI to the showroom floor and beyond. Developed by Metadome.ai, the newly launched virtual assistant provides customers with round-the-clock, real-time support across all digital touchpoints. Whether learning about car models, comparing features, booking test drives, or tracking vehicle delivery, the assistant acts as a knowledgeable and responsive digital partner throughout the pre-sales experience.

More than just a sales tool, the assistant also supports post-sales services. Customers can authenticate themselves, book maintenance appointments, access previous service records, receive live maintenance updates, activate warranties, locate service centers, and request spare parts and accessories. It also delivers automated maintenance reminders and other services that’s helping streamline after-sales support while keeping customers fully informed and connected.

“At Metadome.ai, we’re driven by one simple idea—technology should feel intuitive, human, and helpful. That’s exactly what we aimed for with this product. By combining Jameel Motors deep automotive expertise with our conversational AI capabilities and tech backbone, we’ve created an experience that feels less like a bot—and more like a knowledgeable, always-available assistant,” said Shorya Mahajan, Co-founder and COO of Metadome.ai

The assistant is already live at select Jameel Motors digital touchpoints, with early feedback indicating stronger online engagement, faster response cycles, and increased customer satisfaction.

Tarek Abdullatif, Regional Director Jameel Motors Egypt, stated: “We’ve seen firsthand how digital tools can transform industries. This assistant is more than a chatbot it’s a smart, responsive designed to meet the needs of today’s connected customer.”

He added, “In the coming months, the virtual assistant solution will roll out across Jameel Motors entire network, in Egypt as part of the company’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric service.

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INEOS AUTOMOTIVE ACCELERATES IN THE MIDDLE EAST WITH 1,000TH VEHICLE DELIVERED AND MAJOR REGIONAL EXPANSION

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A front three-quarter shot of an INEOS Grenadier parked outdoors.

INEOS Automotive has hit a major milestone in the Middle East, delivering its 1,000th Grenadier 4X4 – just over two years after launching in the region. The rugged British-designed off-roader has quickly gained traction with adventurers, professionals, and off-road enthusiasts alike.

REGIONAL INVESTMENT AND EXPANSION

Executive Headshot of Dan Balmer - Head of Region - INEOS Automotive
Dan Balmer, Head of Region, INEOS Automotive

Building on its fast-growing global footprint, INEOS Automotive is making a bold move and expanding operations across the Middle East and Africa. Leading this next chapter is the newly appointed Head of Region, Dan Balmer – a highly accomplished executive with a CV that spans top roles at BMW, Aston Martin, Lotus, and Rolls-Royce.

Balmer will be based in INEOS Automotive’s brand-new regional headquarters in the Arenco Tower in Dubai’s Media City, where a growing team – including relocated staff from the UK – will drive sales, marketing, aftersales, and the dealer network.

With a strong existing footprint across six countries and seven dealer sites, the company is now gearing up to expand further across the GCC and break into new Middle Eastern and African markets. “The 1,000th Grenadier delivery signifies that drivers across the region are embracing what we’ve built,” said Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive. “We’re backing that enthusiasm with serious investment: a new regional HQ, a growing team, and an exciting leader in Dan Balmer, who’s ready to take things to the next level.”

INDUSTRY HEAVYWEIGHT AT THE HELM

Newly appointed regional chief, Dan Balmer, brings deep global expertise and local insight to the role. Having previously led teams in major markets for some of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands, he’s now focused on growing INEOS Automotive’s presence and partnerships throughout the region.

“Hitting this milestone delivery is just the beginning,” said Balmer. “The Middle East and Africa offer huge potential, and I’m thrilled to lead our efforts here – from expanding into new markets to delivering exceptional customer experiences.”

Balmer started his automotive career as an apprentice design technician, and progressed through the ranks at BMW and Rolls-Royce. His first regional leadership appointment was as General Manager Asia Pacific for Rolls-Royce from 2012. Joining Aston Martin in 2014, Balmer led several regional offices, latterly as President of UK, Middle East & Africa. And at Lotus from 2021, he saw success as President and CEO of Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and most recently held the position of President and CEO of Lotus Cars Europe.

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