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

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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

StartMercedes-Benz Center, Riyadh, 8 March 2024, 4:15 a.m. (AST)
ArrivalMercedes-Benz Brand Center, Dubai, 8 March 2024, 7:57 p.m. (GST)
Travel routeRiyadh, Haradh, Al Batha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai
Driving distance1,010 km (627.6 miles)
Total travel time / in motion14:42 h / 12:45 h
Ave. speed68.7 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. speed140 km/h (87 mph)
Ave. consumption7.4 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 contentkWh<100
Rated voltageVolts>900
Cd value 0.17
Front facem22.12
PowerkW180
Wheelbasemm2,800
Length/width/heightmm4,975/1,870/1,348
Unladen vehicle weightkg1,755
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Automotive

ZEEKR SETS GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ TITLE WITH THE ZEEKR 7X AT YAS MARINA CIRCUIT, CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS OF INNOVATION

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The Zeekr 7X has earned a Guinness World Records™ title for the tightest gap passed through whilst drifting an electric car, successfully passing through a gap with an astonishing clearance of just 25 centimetres.

The record was officially achieved at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, showcasing the exceptional precision, stability, and dynamic control of the Zeekr 7X. The achievement demonstrates the advanced capabilities of Zeekr’s intelligent electric vehicle platform and reinforces the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence and innovation.

The Zeekr 7X’s record-setting performance is underpinned by a combination of advanced chassis engineering and intelligent vehicle control systems. Its front double wishbone suspension delivers exceptional steering precision and responsiveness, faithfully translating driver inputs into accurate vehicle movement. The high-output rear electric motor provides instant, precisely controllable torque, enabling smooth, sustained drifts while allowing fine adjustments to the vehicle’s direction through throttle modulation. Complementing these systems, the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) provides exceptional body rigidity and a low centre of gravity, enhancing stability, balance, and driver confidence under extreme driving conditions.

The record attempt formed the centrepiece of Zeekr’s global celebrations marking its fifth anniversary. Since its launch in 2021, Zeekr has rapidly established itself as a premium intelligent electric mobility brand, continually pushing the boundaries of design, technology, safety, and performance. This latest Guinness World Records™ achievement reflects the brand’s relentless pursuit of innovation and serves as a powerful demonstration of the engineering excellence behind the Zeekr 7X.

“Achieving a Guinness World Records title is a proud milestone for Zeekr and a fitting way to celebrate our fifth anniversary,” said Mr. Mars Chen, Vice President of Zeekr. “The Zeekr 7X embodies our commitment to intelligent engineering, precision, and performance. This achievement demonstrates the strength of our technology and reinforces our ambition to continue redefining premium electric mobility through innovation.”

“This Guinness World Records™ achievement reflects the innovation, precision, and performance that define Zeekr,” said Roberto Colucci, Director of Electric Vehicles at AWR Automotive. “We’re proud to celebrate this milestone and to bring the intelligent technology and advanced engineering of the Zeekr 7X to customers across the UAE.”

The celebration continued on 13 June 2026, when more than 200 Zeekr owners, customers, partners, and members of the UAE media gathered at Yas Marina Circuit to commemorate both the world record achievement and Zeekr’s five-year journey. The event brought together the Zeekr community to experience the brand’s latest innovations and celebrate this landmark moment.

As Zeekr enters its next chapter, the company remains committed to accelerating the future of intelligent electric mobility through cutting-edge technology, exceptional craftsmanship, and customer-centric innovation.

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Automotive

UDRIVE CUSTOMERS CROSS 45 MILLION KILOMETRES AS UAE DEMAND FOR CAR SHARING ACCELERATES 

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Udrive, the UAE’s leading car-sharing platform, has strengthened its mobility network across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman, as app-based car access becomes a bigger part of how people move across the country. In 2025 alone, Udrive customers have driven more than 45 million kilometres, reflecting rising demand for smarter urban mobility that aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’s focus on flexible means of transportation.

The growth reflects Udrive’s expanding role as a practical alternative to traditional car rental and private car ownership. The platform now operates a fleet of over 2,000 vehicles and has completed more than three million rentals to date. In 2025, Udrive recorded over half a million trips, while registrations grew by 14% compared with 2024, indicating stronger adoption among customers seeking on-demand access to vehicles.

Residents make up 90% of Udrive’s customer base, showing how car sharing has become part of daily commuting, errands, weekend plans and short-term transport needs. Retention has strengthened, with active customers for 12 months or more rising from 21% to 32%. Growth across shorter-term segments has also supported higher trip volumes and revenue, pointing to sustained adoption among both new and returning users.

Fleet choice has also expanded; Udrive now offers vehicles from Kia, Ford, BYD and MINI, with Toyota, Suzuki, Nissan and Mitsubishi also available on the platform. With the company’s ongoing partnership with AGMC, recent additions include MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works models, the launch of MINI Convertibles. Udrive has also added hybrid BYD Song and BYD QIN vehicles to its fleet, offering customers premium, lower-emission mobility options.

“At Udrive, our growth is being shaped by customers who want access without the cost and commitment of ownership. Expanding across four emirates and growing our fleet gives residents and visitors the freedom to choose the right car for every journey. Stronger retention shows that flexible mobility is becoming part of daily life in the UAE, while supporting a more practical alternative to private vehicle dependency,” said Hasib Khan, Founder and CEO of Udrive.

As part of its wider network growth, Udrive has added new Business Zones in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman, extending coverage across almost every area within its operating network. This gives customers more flexibility to pick up and end trips across key residential, commercial and lifestyle districts, supporting everyday journeys across the UAE’s major urban centres.

Through the Udrive app, customers can locate, book and unlock a vehicle in minutes, with flexible rental options by the minute, hour, day, week or month. The service is designed around convenience and transparency, with zero deposit, no paperwork, office visits or delivery fees, and inclusive benefits such as free fuel and parking.

As the UAE’s mobility needs continue to evolve, Udrive will focus on deeper coverage, stronger fleet variety, and partnerships that improve access to flexible transport across the country. The company’s growth strategy is centred on making shared mobility easier to use, more widely available, and more relevant to how residents move across cities every day.

The expanded Udrive network is now live on the app. Customers can open the map, find a nearby car, choose the rental option that fits their journey and start driving in minutes.

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Udrive customers cross 45 million kilometres as UAE demand for car sharing accelerates 

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Udrive, the UAE’s leading car-sharing platform, has strengthened its mobility network across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Ajman, as app-based car access becomes a bigger part of how people move across the country. In 2025 alone, Udrive customers have driven more than 45 million kilometres, reflecting rising demand for smarter urban mobility that aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’s focus on flexible means of transportation.

The growth reflects Udrive’s expanding role as a practical alternative to traditional car rental and private car ownership. The platform now operates a fleet of over 2,000 vehicles and has completed more than three million rentals to date. In 2025, Udrive recorded over half a million trips, while registrations grew by 14% compared with 2024, indicating stronger adoption among customers seeking on-demand access to vehicles.

Residents make up 90% of Udrive’s customer base, showing how car sharing has become part of daily commuting, errands, weekend plans and short-term transport needs. Retention has strengthened, with active customers for 12 months or more rising from 21% to 32%. Growth across shorter-term segments has also supported higher trip volumes and revenue, pointing to sustained adoption among both new and returning users.

Fleet choice has also expanded; Udrive now offers vehicles from Kia, Ford, BYD and MINI, with Toyota, Suzuki, Nissan and Mitsubishi also available on the platform. With the company’s ongoing partnership with AGMC, recent additions include MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works models, the launch of MINI Convertibles. Udrive has also added hybrid BYD Song and BYD QIN vehicles to its fleet, offering customers premium, lower-emission mobility options.

“At Udrive, our growth is being shaped by customers who want access without the cost and commitment of ownership. Expanding across four emirates and growing our fleet gives residents and visitors the freedom to choose the right car for every journey. Stronger retention shows that flexible mobility is becoming part of daily life in the UAE, while supporting a more practical alternative to private vehicle dependency,” said Hasib Khan, Founder and CEO of Udrive.

As part of its wider network growth, Udrive has added new Business Zones in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman, extending coverage across almost every area within its operating network. This gives customers more flexibility to pick up and end trips across key residential, commercial and lifestyle districts, supporting everyday journeys across the UAE’s major urban centres.

Through the Udrive app, customers can locate, book and unlock a vehicle in minutes, with flexible rental options by the minute, hour, day, week or month. The service is designed around convenience and transparency, with zero deposit, no paperwork, office visits or delivery fees, and inclusive benefits such as free fuel and parking.

As the UAE’s mobility needs continue to evolve, Udrive will focus on deeper coverage, stronger fleet variety, and partnerships that improve access to flexible transport across the country. The company’s growth strategy is centred on making shared mobility easier to use, more widely available, and more relevant to how residents move across cities every day.

The expanded Udrive network is now live on the app. Customers can open the map, find a nearby car, choose the rental option that fits their journey and start driving in minutes.

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