Dubai Autodrome invited us to a press conference to introduce some of their new “experience” offerings, namely involving driving their cars on their track with some instruction thrown in. One of us went to try it out. Sort of.
I have updated the Future Preview section to reflect new information on tons of 2008, 2009 and 2010 cars. Spy shots, computer renderings and what not.
According to Gulf News, Dubai Police has deployed unmarked police vehicles fitted with mobile speed cameras. The number of vehicles will eventually expand to 12, and they patrol Sheikh Zayed Road and Emirates Road. Apparently the cars will chase you down and fine you Dhs 200 on the spot.
General Motors Middle East is quietly recalling all 2007 Chevrolet Aveo sedans sold in the UAE due to a fault in the fuel line that could cause the car to catch fire in the case of an accident.
Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer, apparently “to commemorate their unique legacy and support children around the world,” joined forces with the Save the Children charity to create the “Dream Machines driven by Generous Hearts†project, a photographic exhibition and charity event “celebrating the very special love affair between influential men and women and the Avant-Garde “dream machines†that inspire them.”
Motor oil giant Castrol is celebrating its the first anniversary of its Middle East launch of Castrol EDGE synthetic engine oils with a competition. For a chance to win prizes, including an XBox, people should visit www.castroledge.ae between 8th July and 15th August 2007.
Today, on the last day with our Chevy Tahoe Z71 tester, I decided to go do some acceleration tests before we return the car. Today also is the first day of Dubai RTA’s Salik road tolls. And what a hellish experience it has been.
The United States and Europe have civilian governmental authorities to monitor dangerous defects in cars. Around here, we have the Dubai Police apparently. The police forensics lab found a defect that can cause fires in 2.0-litre Ford Mondeos, and are asking owners to head to the nearest dealer for free repairs.
Chinese cars are starting to make inroads in the Middle East thanks mainly to their price. While we feel they should be even cheaper, people are still starting to snap up some of these cars. The Chinese are also trying to conquer Europe, but they have to pass Europe’s strict crash test regulations. Shown above is the latest car to try, known as the Brilliance BS6, a midsize luxury car.
Dubai is apparently only the fourth city till now to get powerful Honda Goldwing bikes that are fitted to tow a car.