QC Chief 36 Austrian Companies Including Three Wholly-Owned Operational in Qatar Tribune News Network Doha

AAB launches new Lexus IS 2021 page 14

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

30,230.46 10,480.69 46263.17 1,855.50 +368.91 pts -1.27 pts +9.71 pts Gold +1.28 % 4 startups emerge winners of Dow QE sensex QBIC’s 2nd wave of LMP page 13 Price percentage Price percentage 24.63 Brent 50.77 +0.95 % WTI 47.63 +1.36 % Silver +2.42 % Qatar-Austria trade volume exceeds $210 mn: QC chief 36 Austrian companies including three wholly-owned operational in Qatar Tribune News Network Doha

Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani participated in the General Assembly Meeting of the 29th Session and 30th Meeting of the Board of Di- rectors of the Arab-Austro The 26th session of the Partnership Summit 2020 kicked off in Mumbai on Tuesday. Chamber of Commerce (AACC) held on Tuesday via videoconference. The meetings discussed a Kuwari chairs Qatar’s team report on the economic and commercial cooperation between Arab countries and Aus- at Partnership Summit 2020 tria, in addition to other topics identified in the agenda. Tribune News Network held under the theme “Partner- Additionally, the summit For his part, Sheikh Doha ships for Lives, Livelihood, and features looking into expand- Khalifa underscored the im- Growth”, is aimed at discussing ing business partnership op- portance of economic coop- Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani participates in a meeting of Arab-Austro Minister of Commerce and ways to enhance trade and in- portunities in various sectors eration between both sides, Chamber of Commerce held online on Tuesday. Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed vestment cooperation channels of common interest. noting that the AACC plays a Al Kuwari chaired the Qatari between Qatar and India, shed- The Partnership Summit vital role in this regard, and as strengthen cooperation these relations. and three companies with delegation that participated ding light on Qatar’s investment had 25 previous sessions, wit- acts as a bridge between Arab prospects between business The two countries’ bilateral full Austrian capital, he said. in the 26th session of the environment, as well as the nessing the participation of a states and Austria. sectors for the good of both trade amounted to $ 210 mil- Founded in 1989, AACC Partnership Summit 2020. promising investment opportu- number of ministers, senior Pointing out the strong countries’ economies. lion last year, while it reached aims to strengthen the eco- Held through videoconfer- nities that would contribute to officials, decision-makers, relation between Qatar and Qatar and Austria en- $138 million at the end of the nomic and commercial ties ence, the four-day summit attracting more foreign direct business leaders, political Austria, he underlined the joy close and multi-faceted third quarter of 2020. between Austria and the began in Mumbai on Tuesday. investments and enhancing Qa- leaders, investment organisa- interest of both countries to relations, he noted adding There are about 33 Aus- Arab countries, as well as en- The participation of Qatar tar’s competitive position in the tions, investors, and experts promote their investment that the private sectors in trian companies operating in hance communication in sci- in this year’s summit, which was region and beyond. in industrial field. and trade cooperation, as well both sides sought to support Qatar with Qatari partners ence, art and technology.

MoCI-New Economy & Business Wednesday, December 16, 2020 13 QND an occasion to celebrate 4 startups emerge winners achievements, praise values of solidarity, unity: Kuwari of QBIC’s 2nd wave of LMP

QNA Mohsin Al Shaikh’s Oxy Tank, Khalifa Al Thani’s Biscuit Factory, Hassan Al Doha Ansari’s Arkana and Beehive from Sarah Al Dorani and Eliana are the winners Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari affirmed that Qa- Tribune News Network tar National Day is an occasion to celebrate Doha the huge and honorable achievements thanks to the vision of the wise leadership The Qatar Business Incuba- and a milestone for maintaining the values tion Center (QBIC) has suc- of solidarity, unity and patriotism, which cessfully concluded the sec- were established by the founder Sheikh ond wave of its newly formed Jassim bin Mohammed bin Than. The Lean Manufacturing Program founder laid the foundation for establishing (LMP), following an event the State of Qatar that turned the State into streamed live from QBIC’s a cohesive society and a united and inde- headquarters in Doha. pendent country. The seven-week pro- In an exclusive statement to the Qatar gramme, which is the first of News Agency (QNA) on the occasion of the its kind in the country, has National Day, the minister said the slogan Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin seen several promising in- of the National Day this year “We praise Ahmed Al Kuwari dustrial startups and rapidly you, the Lord of the Throne”, is taken growing manufacturing com- from poetic verses from the founder of the panies take part in practical State of Qatar. The leaders and sons of the workshops and developmental country who were raised in the spirit of online sessions. what the slogan signifies believed that the The LMP team received path of victory could not be achieved except applications from more than with determination, patience and making ‘Inspiring devp policies’ 40 startups, out of which five massive sacrifices with the help of God teams were selected to pitch Almighty. Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali their ideas before a panel of The minister explained that the lead- bin Ahmed Al Kuwari said that Qatar has expert judges. The four win- experts. sion. Another successful wave tional seminars by the team ers of the State, since its establishment, pursued inspiring development policies that ners for the second wave of the The LMP is designed to of the LMP concludes today, at Fab-Lab. Participants were have exerted everything that would raise ensure self-reliance, cooperation and programme were Oxy Tank build the capacity of compa- but we are excited to continue also given the opportunity to the country and its people, and the State international openness as strategic (Mohsin Al Shaikh), which nies that are aiming to manu- supporting Qatari talent to visit Jahiz factories and QBIC of Qatar today has become a civilized, principles to raise various regional and produces watertank coolers; facture products and goods in achieve maximum potential industrial workshop where developmental and economic model to be global challenges, especially the economic Biscuit Factory (Khalifa Al Qatar. Participants in the LMP within the manufacturing in- they received advice and guid- emulated. repercussions of the global COVID-19 Thani), a made-in-Qatar bis- are trained to develop their dustry.” ance from factory owners on He pointed out that Qatar has pursued pandemic. He stressed that Qatar, thanks cuit production startup; Arka- ideas alongside invaluable Within this programme, how to scale their operations. inspiring development policies that ensure to the guidance of its wise leadership, has na (Hassan Al Ansari) which insights provided by interna- entrepreneurs and busi- Graduates of the LMP can self-reliance, cooperation and international demonstrated its ability to deal with one of has an innovative approach to tional experts and partners, ness owners gain a thorough, now transfer their knowledge openness as strategic principles to raise air conditioning, and Beehive as QBIC continues to deliver hands-on understanding and skills to empower indi- various regional and global challenges, the most difficult challenges by adopting a (Sarah Al Dorani and Eliana), world-class content that is rel- of the holistic manufactur- viduals currently within the especially the economic repercussions of flexible strategy that places the health and bringing the number of ideas evant to the local market. ing process through a series industrial and manufacturing the global COVID-19 pandemic. safety of citizens and residents at the top of started by LMP to 16. Hamad Dashin Al Qahta- of practical sessions that are sector, as they pave the way to He stressed that Qatar, thanks to the its priorities and has directed an important QBIC will support the win- ni, General Manager at QBIC, based on the lean methodol- leading change within the sec- guidance of its wise leadership, has dem- part of its efforts to preserve the strength ners by providing each with said. “It is a pleasure to see ogy. tor in Qatar. Program gradu- onstrated its ability to deal with one of the and durability of its national economy. a workshop space at a sub- more aspiring entrepreneurs During the programme, ates leave with the skills and most difficult challenges by adopting a sidised rate and a dedicated participating in the LMP. This participants visited Fab-Lab knowledge to efficiently scale flexible strategy that places the health and office space, in addition to is proof that we are stead- at QBIC to learn more about their operations and grow into safety of citizens and residents at the top of gradually lifted in line with the stages set by on-going coaching and men- ily achieving self-sufficiency digital manufacturing and the next stage of the produc- its priorities and has directed an important the Supreme Committee for Crisis Man- torship services by industry in line with the nation’s vi- received a number of inspira- tion cycle. part of its efforts to preserve the strength agement, the minister pointed out, adding and durability of its national economy. that in parallel with this, an important The minister said the country has set of awareness-raising campaigns about moved forward towards continuing its sound business and health practices were march to achieve Qatar National Vision launched to intensify inspection campaigns 2030, as it adopted an inspiring model in on various commercial activities in the QFTH announces Wave 2 of flagship programmes crisis management by adopting integrated country. mechanisms and procedures that ensured He confirmed the ministry’s direc- Tribune News Network empowering services to fuel the financial service ecosystem the sustainability of the economy and tion, through the committee concerned Doha the digital transformation of in Qatar”. business continuity and enabled recovery with studying and addressing the private the markets across the region “The announcement of and restoration of growth within a record sector’s obstacles, towards coordinating Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH), and globe. the second wave of the pro- period. cooperation with the various concerned co-founded by Qatar Develop- QFTH aims to develop the grammes shows our commit- Qatar succeeded in maintaining its government agencies in order to approve a ment Bank (QDB) and estab- Fintech industry in Qatar, in ment towards the develop- credit rating, with the testimony of stud- set of exemptions in support of the private lished to support the growth of accordance with the Qatar Na- ment of the financial service ies conducted by international institutions sector, such as canceling the rental value of the FinTech industry in Qatar, tional Fintech Strategy created ecosystem in Qatar,” conclud- for 2020 that unanimously affirmed the industrial land for a period of 6 months for has announced that registra- by Qatar Central Bank (QCB), ed Al Khalifa. country’s high credit rating and confirmed factories in the Small and Medium Enter- tion for Wave 2 of its flagship and to contribute and reiter- Upon the completion of the stable future outlook for its economy, prises Zone and Mesaieed, in addition to Incubator and Accelerator ate Qatar’s position as a lead- the programmes, eligible par- Kuwari added, indicating in the same exempting operating factories from paying Programmes is now open. ing international FinTech hub ticipants will also be referred context that the IMF confirmed in its latest electricity and water fees for a period of 6 Both programmes are set to in the region, as outlined in to QCB’s Sandbox where they reports on promising prospects for the Qa- months. start in March and will run un- QDB CEO Abdulaziz bin Nasser Qatar’s National Vision 2030. will receive support on licens- tari economy, which is expected to achieve He pointed out that an important quali- til June 2021. Al Khalifa The first wave of the Incubator ing needs in Qatar, in addition growth of 3 percent between 2021-2022. tative leap had been achieved in the path of Catering to both local and and Accelerator Programs are to benefiting from a fee waiver He noted that these economic indica- supporting national companies, referring global FinTech entrepreneurs USD$250,000 with bespoke centered around payments in on registration. Licensing op- tors translate the speedy measures taken to the role of the recently issued Public- and startups who are looking mentoring and training pro- alignment with the Qatar Fin- portunities from Qatar Finan- by the State, which balanced between Private Partnership Law (PPP law) in for a launchpad and a hub in vided by QFTH in the form Tech Strategy, and in synergy cial Center (QFC) as well as strengthening the immunity and integrity framing the contribution of private sector the Middle East to acceler- of investment. Additionally, with QCB - Sandbox and up- the opportunity to collaborate of financial and banking markets and the institutions and motivating them to partici- ate their growth at an inter- this investment will ensure coming regulations. with over 17 local financial general budget on the one hand, and sup- pate in the implementation of the country’s national level, the FinTech a long-term relationship be- Commenting on the antici- institutions and regulators porting the private sector on the other. major development projects, especially Programmes will comprise of tween the hub and the FinTech pated Wave 2 of the FinTech who are part of the QFTH In this regard, the minister said Qatar projects related to the 2022 FIFA World an Incubator for early-stage to help them navigate the local Programmes, Abdulaziz bin task force including Dukhan allocated about QR75 billion in financial Cup organization. startups, and an Accelerator financialservice ecosystem in Nasser Al Khalifa, Chief Ex- Bank, the QFC and Ooredoo. and economic incentives to private sector The minister affirmed that the ministry for mature FinTechs. Qatar and also support them ecutive Officer of Qatar Devel- In addition to this, a range of enterprises, including small, medium and will continue to work to raise all challenges The highly anticipated in raising the future rounds of opment Bank & Fintech Task business development oppor- micro-enterprises, which contributed to that would face the various components FinTech programmes in Wave funding. Force Chairman, said: “The tunities on the global scale will reducing their burdens and encouraging of the private sector and support them 2 will focus on emerging tech- During the current pro- first wave of the QFTH Incu- also be made available to the them to maintain the continuity of their in the economic recovery phase from the nologies for financial services. gramme of Wave 1, interna- bator and Accelerator Pro- successful FinTechs. business under the current circumstances. pandemic and direct them towards prior- The call for applications tional and local FinTechs are grams received an overwhelm- As part of its commitment Regarding the role of the Ministry of ity economic sectors based on technology, will open during middle of taking part in a series of high- ing response with over 750 to offer world-class expertise Commerce and Industry during the pan- scientific research and development as December 2020 for a period level Business Development applicants from 72 countries, to participating FinTechs, demic, the minister explained that the they are considered the locomotive of the of 8 weeks. FinTechs applying meetings and specialized Mas- including Qatar, UK, USA, QFTH is continuously collab- ministry, in turn, was keen to accelerate the national economy towards achieving Qatar to the programmes will get an terclasses conducted by QFTH India, Singapore, Turkey, Ni- orating with strategic stake- response to the repercussions of COVID-19 National Vision 2030. opportunity to be part of a 12- partners and renowned speak- geria, Germany, Russia, Indo- holders within the FinTech and to organize commercial and industrial Kuwari extended congratulations to week incubation or accelera- ers from across the world. The nesia, and Australia. Follow- ecosystem including financial activities in accordance with the procedures HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad tion journey that will provide structure of the program en- ing a thorough and multilevel institutions, technology pro- and measures adopted to limit the spread Al Thani, HH the Father Amir Sheikh essential support required to forces a refined early selection evaluation process, 11 early- viders, payment networks, of the pandemic and protect the health and Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and HH the establish their businesses lo- process which in turn is maxi- stage startups and 12 mature Global FinTech Hubs, aca- safety of citizens and residents. Necessary Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad cally, regionally, and interna- mizing value for all stakehold- FinTechs were chosen to join demia, and regulators. Recent decisions and circulars were issued to stop Al Thani, expressing honor in renewing the tionally. ers. With Demo Day scheduled the ongoing partnerships include Amazon, some commercial activities and then the covenant and loyalty to HH the Amir and Each participating Fin- in January 2021, the Wave 1 programmes. Progress Soft, Vodafone, and restrictions imposed on these sectors were determination to serve the State. Tech will receive financial FinTechs are well on their way “The FinTechs have been Global Positioning System and in-kind support of up to to launch a host of new and welcomed with open arms by (GPS) to name a few. Qatari laws strengthen arbitration institutions, says Sheikh Thani Al Thani

Tribune News Network Commerce’s (ICC) Court of ties enjoy a broad freedom 2021, the ICC New Rules of ald, Senior Associate Pinsent Doha International Arbitration, was to agree on arbitration pro- Arbitration shall enter into Masons, and Thomas Wil- addressing a virtual forum of cedures which are character- force, he said, stressing that liams, Partner of Sultan Al- The issuance of Law No 2 of the ICC Young Arbitrators Fo- ised with efficiency, flexibil- they focus on efficiency, flex- Abdulla & Partners. 2017 promulgating the civil rum (YAF) under the theme ity, and confidentiality,” he ibility, and transparency to Moderated by ICC YAF and commercial arbitra- ‘Arbitration in Qatar: Current said. keep the rules attractive and Qatar Representative Saad tion and Qatar becoming a Issues & The Next Generation Underscoring the impor- innovative. Hegazy, the online webinar seat of arbitration in several Opportunities’. tance of arbitration, Sheikh “The New rules embrace explored the current issues cases attest to the impor- “The Qatari Arbitration Thani noted that arbitration virtual hearings as an option and the future of interna- tance the country attaches to Law strengthens the role of and other forms of ADR are to the parties due to Covid-19 tional arbitration in Qatar, dispute resolution, Sheikh arbitration institutions and gaining popularity and con- pandemic.” HE said. and the opportunities for Dr Thani bin Ali Al Thani their authority in adminis- fidence by the contracting Speakers included Dr young international arbitra- has said. trating the procedures. It parties, whether public or Nader Ibrahim, Professor tion practitioners, as well as Shiekh Thani, a member contains only few mandatory private entities. of Law College of Law Qatar the current issues commonly of International Chamber of rules. This means that par- With the approach of Sheikh Dr Thani bin Ali Al Thani University; Pamela McDon- experienced in Qatar. 14 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Economy & Business Building sales dominate property deals Decarbonisation crucial to cement last week: Ezdan report position of gas in energy mix: GECF

Tribune News Network Doha GECF’s third annual workshop discusses impact of climate action and initiatives on energy and gas markets

Real Estate deals worth Tribune News Network According to him, decar- QR373.7 million took place Doha bonising natural gas is gaining between December 6 and 10 momentum and companies are in Qatar, the latest Ezdan Real As the world gets increasingly exploring alternative options, Estate report has said, cit- committed to limiting global including carbon offsets in the ing figures from the country’s warming to well below 2C de- LNG market, as evidenced by Real Estate Registration De- grees, the success of various the recent announcement by partment. Of this, building initiatives to decarbonise natu- Qatar Petroleum in its sales sales during the period gen- ral gas will be key to ensure agreement with Singapore’s erated QR 210 million and that this fastest growing and Pavilion Energy. 56.2 percent of the sale trade the cleanest hydrocarbon fuel “Consequently, decarbon- value. Meanwhile, the sale of remains prevailing in the fu- ising natural gas is becoming vacant land lots saw transac- ture energy mix, participants of increasingly important for the tion worth QR163.6 million, a recently-held Workshop on gas industry. The resilience of representing 43.8 percent of Environmental Advantages of natural gas in the energy mix the total, the report, which is Natural Gas heard. will depends on success of de- sponsored by SAK Partner- Organised by the Gas Ex- carbonising it,” concluded Di ships, said. porting Countries Forum Odoardo. All seven municipalities (GECF), the 3rd annual edi- The final speaker of the — Umm Salal, Al-Khor, Al- tion of the workshop was held workshop, the Policy and Envi- Thakhira, Doha, Al-Rayyan, virtually and in the backdrop ronment Analyst at the GECF, Al-Shamal, Al-Daayen and of COVID-19 pandemic when Sid-Ahmad Hamdani, shared Al-Wakrah, saw property countries are juxtaposed be- key insights from the perspec- sales during the period. The tween the need to restore tive of developing an Energy deals included sale of vacant economies and implement en- Sustainability Index (ESI). land lots, residences, multi- vironmental safeguards. The An ESI aggregates several use buildings and mixed-use importance of environmental GECF Secretary General Yury Sentyurin (top) , (L-R) Wood Mackenzie’s Global Gas Analysis VP Massimo Di Odoardo, Head of GECF’s Energy Econom- indicators on different energy- pace and residential build- protection in energy systems ics and Forecasting Department Dmitry Sokolov and GECF Policy and Environment Analyst Sid-Ahmad Hamdani address the GECF virtual workshop. sustainability dimensions. It ings. was evident in the workshop’s allows ranking of countries Al-Daayan municipality size, whose participants have climate policy orientations that ed the prospects for energy- targets of the Paris Agreement quarter of global gas demand,” according to the sustainability witnessed the highest deals been increasing in numbers will unfold in the future. “The related CO2 emissions in the and more and more efforts are noted Di Odoardo. of their energy systems and as- in terms of value by selling a since the first edition. world hopes to maintain emis- 2020 edition of the Global Gas needed to reach the UN SDGs”. “With COP26 in Glasgow sesses the position of natural multi- use land lot in Jeryan The event was opened by sions on a decreasing trend Outlook 2050. This landmark The Secretariat official also scheduled for November next gas in different countries not Jenayhat. The transaction the Secretary General of the through sustainable means annual publication is based added, that “switching from year, others might follow suit. only on the environmental generated up to QR16.5 mil- Forum, Yury Sentyurin, who with activities running and on the most comprehensive coal-to-gas, and oil-to-gas in A new, more ambitious climate dimension, but also through lion at a price of QR13,750 outlined the ongoing efforts of economic prosperity on track. modelling tool available today transport, for instance, will al- change goal might well be on considering other criteria in- per square foot. The land lot the GECF Secretariat to moni- That is where natural gas is – the GECF Global Gas Model low the world to significantly the horizon, perhaps supported cluding energy access, compet- extends over an area of 1200 tor climate actions and ini- supporting nations globally.” – and allows the Secretariat to reduce CO2 emissions on a by a new Biden (the US Presi- itiveness and affordability. square meters. tiatives, assess their impact on “Although there is a con- provide energy balances with a global scale.” dent-elect) administration.” According to the expert, Rental rates energy and gas markets and sensus around the need to full forecast on energy-related The subject of how to de- It should be noted that net- the framework for GECF’s ESI The report highlighted the highlight the inherent features achieve a transition towards emissions for all energy sectors carbonise natural gas and zero emissions and carbon- takes into consideration six rental rates of Ezdan Real Es- of natural gas that make this more efficient, less carbon- up to 2050. make it a zero-emission source neutral system don’t mean criteria: access to modern en- tate developments in Doha, energy source compatible with intensive and sustainable en- “Countries that adopted of energy was also tackled by that fossil fuels, including gas, ergy, availability and reliabil- namely “Msheireb” com- the UN Sustainable Develop- ergy systems, countries need natural gas immediately bene- the Vice President of Wood will cease to exist to ensure ity of supply, affordability and pounds, which are ones of the ment Goals and Paris Agree- to consider energy options that fitted from a reduction of emis- Mackenzie’s Global Gas Analy- zero greenhouse gas emissions competitiveness, reduction of most key residential projects. ment provisions. allow for achieving the appro- sions. For 2020, we of course sis, Massimo Di Odoardo, who (GHGs). Carbon sinks, includ- GHGs, pollution mitigation They enjoy a premium loca- The GECF is working with priate balance between envi- understand that reduction of outlined the various challenges ing carbon capture and seques- from energy-related activities, tion in the center of Doha, in the most reputable interna- ronmental and climate-related CO2 emission is mostly due and options that different play- tration, and carbon offsets, will and cooperation between en- vicinity from the Doha Cor- tional institutions such as the commitments on one side, and to the slowdown of the global ers are currently exploring. be key to achieve carbon neu- ergy stakeholders. niche. The complexes include UNFCCC, UNECE, UNESCO, social and economic progress economy, but this process is “2020 will be remembered trality. “A balanced energy solu- about 803 residential units, G20, BRICS in a broad dia- on the other side,” added Sen- also due to the effect of pen- as the year when China, Japan “But obviously, renewables tion is one that enables a stable all consisting of two rooms. logue on the essential role of tyurin. etration of more natural gas and South Korea have pledged and other emerging zero and and synchronised progress of The monthly rent for a fur- natural gas in achieving the The welcoming remarks into the global economy,” said to achieve a carbon neutral low-carbon energy, including all these criteria. This is why nished apartment QR3900, ambitious targets. were followed by Head of the Sokolov. energy system, following an- hydrogen, will gain traction, we want to assess and score while the monthly rent for an According to him, the COV- GECF’s Energy Economics “However, any progress (on nouncement from the UK and providing substantial down- different energy options based unfurnished apartment starts ID-19 pandemic has triggered a and Forecasting Department, emissions) between 2010 and the EU in 2019. Those coun- side risk to natural gas in the on these criteria,” noted Ham- at QR3750. large debate on the energy and Dmitry Sokolov, who present- 2019 is not enough to meet the tries together represent about a long term,” he added. dani. Sports sedan redefined: AAB launches new Lexus IS 2021

Tribune News Network Doha Bold exterior AAB launched the new Lexus ● New model features bold IS in Education City Golf Club. exterior styling and athletic The event was attended by silhouette AAB Acting CEO RK Murugan, Senior Marketing Manager Fi- ● New 10.3-inch ras Mufti and Senior Manager touchscreen multimedia (Lexus National Sales) Ahmed system with Apple CarPlay Abusaad, in addition to senior and Android Auto AAB managers, staff and Lex- compatibility us Brand ambassador Amal Ameen, along with Media rep- ● Vehicle incorporates resentatives and influencers. state-of-the-art Welcoming the guests, technologies including the Firas Mufti said, “Today is a latest Lexus Safety special day because not only System+ are we launching a new vehicle but we are perfecting the Lexus brand and DNA with East. The latest version of the “Previous generations of duction. rear fenders blend into the ture. Owners can choose from (AHB). this bold and athletic vehicle.” popular vehicle remains true the IS already enjoy a strong The suspension stabilizer extended, lowered rear deck, two engine options; an up- The vehicle also includes RK Murugan added: “Since to its foundation as a front-en- reputation among drivers, bar has also been optimized creating a low stance and em- dated 2.0-liter, turbocharged comprehensive safety fea- the debut of its first genera- gine, rear-wheel-drive sports and we are confident that the using a new material to pro- phasizing the L-shaped full- and intercooled inline four- tures designed to protect tion in 1999, the IS has been sedan, while expanding on many refinements our design vide a 17 percent weight re- width rear light. cylinder engine delivering 241 its occupants, such as 8 renowned for its exhilarat- the qualities that have built its and engineering teams have duction. The new model’s distinct hp and 350 Nm of torque, and SRS airbags, Vehicle Stabil- ing driving performance and loyal following. made, created a performance The new bold exterior styl- personality is completed by a sophisticated 3.5-liter V6 ity Control (VSC), Traction sporty styling and has sold “What we had foremost that everyone can be passion- ing and athletic silhouette of its exquisite interior, which engine that produces 311 hp Control (TRC), Anti-lock more than a million units over in mind when developing the ate about. I’d like to thank our the 2021 IS signifies the agile invites drivers and passengers and 380 Nm of torque. The Braking System (ABS) with two decades. With the unveil- new IS was to create a vehicle loyal customers in the region changes that have taken place to enjoy a range of advanced two engines are paired with Electronic Brakeforce Dis- ing of the 2021 model, it is that excelled in communicat- for continually inspiring us as below the surface. features for a refined cabin an eight-speed sport direct- tribution (EBD), Brake As- clear that careful craftmanship ing with the driver, regardless we strive to create Amazing The new IS evokes lower, experience. These include a shift automatic transmission sist (BA), Blind Spot Monitor and countless hours of testing of the road conditions or driv- Experiences by transforming wider proportions with mus- new 10.3-inch touchscreen that offers superb drivabil- (BSM), Parking Support Alert have gone into developing the ing situation,” said Chief Engi- performance into passion and cular fenders, reflecting the multimedia system featuring ity, together with outstanding (PKSA), Rear Cross-Traffic best IS to date. We are excited neer Naoki Kobayashi. technology into imagination.” vehicle’s high performance. Apple CarPlay and Android fuel efficiency and quietness Alert (RCTA), Active Corner- to launch the new Lexus IS in “We retained the well-re- One of the first things that The sleek lines are also com- Auto compatibility, a 4.2-inch even at high speed. ing Assist (ACA), and Hill- Qatar, a vehicle that combines ceived compact body, and set Lexus’ engineers targeted was plemented with aggressive color multi-information dis- As with any Lexus vehi- start Assist Control (HAC), luxury and performance in out to deliver exceptional ride to enhance the IS’s body ri- sharpness carved into the side play (MID), and a dual-zone cle, safety is a top priority for among many others. perfect harmony.” comfort while offering a high gidity. This not only helps to and shoulder character lines. automatic climate control the new Lexus IS. Drivers can Further adding to its styl- Following the reveal of level of control. The longer reduce unwanted noise and vi- The 2021 IS’s newly de- system with touch-sensitive enjoy complete peace of mind ish visual appeal, the 2021 the all new Leux IS, the guests the new IS is driven, the more bration, but also improves ride signed spindle grille features controls. The vehicle also of- thanks to the Lexus Safety Lexus IS comes in a refined participated in the Golf clinic, one can experience the fun of comfort and contributes to an intricate pattern that em- fers SmartAccess with push- System+, an advanced safety range of color options that organized by the Education driving – we wanted people to dynamic driving performance phasizes a sense of presence, button start, a 17-speaker technology package that in- allow discerning owners to City Golf Club coaches where feel the aspirations of the team through enhanced steering re- while the slender headlamps Mark Levinson sound system, cludes Pre-Collision System customize their vehicles ac- they had the chance to com- who created it.” sponse. and daytime running lights a powered moonroof, 8-way (PCS) which include Auto- cording to their tastes. Cus- pete with one another in a Kei Fujita, Chief Repre- To complement these with a sharp L-shape signa- adjustable powered and ven- matic Emergency Braking tomers can choose from casual and fun setup and win sentative, Middle East and enhancements, multiple re- ture have been redesigned to tilated front seats, as well as (AEB) and Emergency Steer- seven distinctive exterior col- some exclusive prizes. Central Asia Representative finements were made to the complement the low-profile ample luggage space thanks ing Assist (ESA), Daytime ours. Meanwhile, the interior Striking a perfect balance ‎Office, Toyota Motor Corpo- suspension setup. The new IS hood. New rocker panels ac- to the 60:40 split-folding rear Pedestrian Detection (DPD), comes in three elegant col- between sportiness and so- ration, said, “We are excited features coil springs that are cent a side profile that features seats. all-speed range Dynamic Ra- ours — Ocher, Dark Rose, and phistication that embodies the to launch the new Lexus IS in 20 percent lighter than the a sharper contour and carries The new Lexus IS’s eye- dar Cruise Control (DRCC), the universal Black. Two new- aspirations of customers in the the region, a vehicle that com- outgoing model, as well as new into the muscular shoulders catching looks are comple- Lane Departure Alert (LDA), ly developed wheel designs region, the 2021 Lexus IS has bines luxury and performance forged aluminum A-arms that over the rear wheel wells. At mented by its balanced, linear Lane Tracing Alert (LTA), and have also been introduced in been launched in the Middle in perfect harmony. offer an 18 percent weight re- the back of the vehicle, the and confident driving signa- Adaptive High-beam System 18-inch and 19-inch sizes. Wednesday, December 16, 2020 15 Economy & Business

Auto Class Cars launches all-new Maxus vehicles in Qatar The launch includes the new Maxus V80, as well as all-new V90 (Deliver 9), the G50 MPV and the D60 mid-size SUV Satyendra Pathak High-performance, The All-New Maxus D60 Doha MAXUS D60 is an all-new SUV great design launched by SAIC-MAXUS. The To meet the growing demand for new car is positioned in a medium- eco-friendly Maxus brand of ve- The all-new Maxus V90 is sized SUV and offers 7-seat layout. hicles in Qatar, Auto Class Cars, a completely new minivan The D60 made its global debut the authorised general distribu- that employs cutting-edge with a 1.5-liter turbocharged en- tor of Maxus in Qatar, launched design with its large, gine mated to a seven-speed DCT four new Maxus vehicles in Doha octagonal and chrome- under its hood. This setup gener- on Monday. laden grille and smaller ates a decent 159hp and 250Nm The launch included the new and more defined LED of torque. Its massive octagonal 12-seater bus Maxus V80, and three lights grille up front features a honey- all-new vehicles – the 16-seater bus comb-like design. This is flanked Maxus V90, the G50 MPV compact ● The new Maxus V80 has by aggressive-looking swept-back vehicle, and the seven-seater mid- now a shorter wheelbase that headlamps as well as a pair of size D60 SUV – that are introduced accommodates 12 seats sporty fog lamps. for the first time in Qatar. The D60 also gets a gigantic Speaking at the launching cer- ● The all-new Maxus G50 is a 8-inch infotainment display up emony, Nasser Bin Khaled Group compact MPV with seven front, complemented by a 12.3-inch Managing Director- Auto Sheikh seats for executive luxury full LCD digital instrument panel. Faleh bin Nawaf Al Thani “The transportation As a mid-sized SUV for the family, launch of four new vehicles from it considers more on practicality in the renowned Maxus brand is in ● Maxus D60 is positioned in the interior design. A large area of line with our strategy to bring to medium-sized SUV and offers soft material is used above the cent- Qatar the best and latest prod- 7-seat layout er console to highlight the excellent ucts the meet expectations of our texture. customers.” Nasser Bin Khaled Group Managing Director- Auto Sheikh Faleh bin Nawaf Al Thani with senior officials of Auto Class Cars Sheikh Faleh said, “Maxus is at the launch of all-new Maxus vehicles in Doha on Monday. The New Maxus V80 globally known for its reliability The new Maxus V80 has now a and sustainability. The brand has shorter wheelbase that accommo- always responded to the needs of dates 12 seats. It is equipped with customers in terms of individual standard headlamps that come with use, family use or transportation tilt adjustability and LED Daytime use. These vehicles add great value Running Light. to the Maxus portfolio in Qatar.” In terms of Interior design, the Auto Class Cars General Man- Maxus V80 is distinguished with its ager Hesham Al Sahn, who also Humanized Design Interior. From addressed the gathering on the front to back, Maxus V80 gives you occasion, said the launch of three efficiency and comfort. With its Vari- all-new models from Maxus is a ous Space Arrangement, the incred- clear indication of the ambitious ible boot space and various styles of plans that Auto Class Cars has for seat arrangement allow V80 in pro- the brand in Qatar. viding various setting possible for “This launch is part of Auto different occasion. The Centre Con- Class Cars and Maxus expansion sole is simple that facilitates the ease plan in Qatar that aims to meet of usage in a modern way. the increasing demand for reli- The All-New Maxus V90 touchscreen display. All mod- compact MPV with seven seats for minimal effort, and while bigger Its surging power comes from able and eco-friendly transport The all-new Maxus V90 (Deliver 9) els also feature electrically-assisted executive luxury transportation. than a typical MPV. an advanced, economical 2.5-litre solutions,” he said. is a completely new minivan that power steering, rear doors that open The G50 is equipped with a 12- The technology also includes turbo-diesel engine that gener- “These new vehicles are distin- employs cutting-edge design with 260 degrees and a choice of normal, inch infotainment system, pano- USB, AUX, and Bluetooth con- ates 134hp of power and 330Nm guished with their quality, design, its large, octagonal and chrome- eco and power driving modes. ramic sunroof, LED headlamps, nectivity options, rear parking of torque. Besides, the new ver- feature and 5-star safety ranking, laden grille and smaller and more Propulsion comes in the form of automatic air-conditioning and sensors, automatic climate con- sion is equipped with Automated making them the perfect fitfor eve- defined LED lights. The 16-seat bus a brand-spanking 2-litre Turbo Die- power tailgate. trol, a keyless entry system with Mechanical Transmission (AMT), ry day’s use. With the new vehicles, is an ideal solution for transport. sel Direct injection engine produc- Powering and motivating the push-start, steering wheel audio the computer-controlled automat- Maxus enters a new era of produc- From inside it is similarly stylish ing 148hp and 375Nm for European G50 is a 1.5-liter turbocharged en- controls, and cruise control among ic system based on the dry clutch tion, and together with Auto Class with its ‘panoramic’ and curved customers, with torque peaking as gine that produces 159hp and 250 other features. The G50 is also and manual transmission. Com- Cars, we are confident that this dashboard which employs a mix of low as 1,500rpm. Interestingly, a Nm of torque, making for decent equipped with power-adjustable pared with traditional ATAMT, the brand will maintain its top position hard and soft-touch plastics. Its in- lot of work has gone into improv- performance over naturally aspi- seats for select variants. new AMT is simpler, more stable as one of the favourite brands in terior appears to now be one of the ing the NVH (noise, vibration and rated rivals. The engine is mated to Safety for all variants includes and its volume is smaller than the Qatar,” he said. smartest and most car-like of any harshness) with rubber-molded and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission driver and front passenger airbags, previous version. The launching ceremony, large van on sale giving the sense of foam covers surrounding the en- that courses the power to the front 3-point seatbelts for all passen- Formerly known as Leyland which took place at Auto Class Cars a surprisingly classy product. gine. The engine is hooked to a new wheels. gers, electronic stability control, DAF Vans, Maxus is one of the showroom at Salwa Road, was also V 90 has been furnished with 6-speed manual transmission with The G50 comes with electronic ABS with electronic brake assist, products of Shanghai Automotive attended by Auto Class Cars Mar- all the latest tech. Comfort and con- rear-wheel drive. power steering, which allows this hill hold control, a tyre pressure Industry Corporation (SAIC). It is keting and Communications Head venience features include keyless MPV to be piloted with absolute monitoring system, and an engine among the most respected compa- Karim Monir and Maxus Brand entry and ignition, adaptive cruise The All-New Maxus G50 MPV ease. Steering feel is not that appar- immobiliser as well as ISOFIX nies for light passenger and cargo Manager in Qatar Tamer Abdallah. control, dual-zone AC and a 10-inch The all-new Maxus G50 is a ent, however, the wheel turns with tethers. transport.

Maxus V90 Maxus G50 Maxus D60 Maxus V80 16 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 Economy & Business Volkswagen Lawmakers push US stimulus buries hatchet in boardroom battle plan to break stubborn deadlock AFP horns with Bernd Osterloh, Frankfurt the head of the group’s in- The bills worth $908 bn to help unemployed, small businesses and state and local governments fluential works council. Car giant Volkswagen’s su- As recently as June, an pervisory board on Monday attack by union representa- announced a deal to end tives cost the chief executive infighting over topjobs and his role as head of the flag- strategy that risked top- ship VW brand, after they pling chief executive Her- accused him of “massive bert Diess, saying the boss’s failures of management” in strategy had their “full sup- launching two crucial new port”. models. Diess, 62, has come into Now there is “total conflict with VW’s powerful agreement between the su- worker representatives over pervisory board, the board his plans for the massive of management and the carmaker to shift towards electric vehicles and break decades-old power structures that many observers blame for its “dieselgate” emissions cheating scandal. The company said in a The tiff statement that the supervisory board “unanimously chief executive Herbert resolved to give its full sup- Diess, 62, has come into port to the strategy, in par- conflict with VW’s powerful ticular the orientation of worker representatives over the company towards elec- his plans for the massive tromobility and digitalisa- carmaker to shift towards tion. electric vehicles and break “In the upcoming years, decades-old power the board of management... structures that many will implement the strategy observers blame for its In this file photo, the US Treasury Department building is seen in Washington, DC.(Eric BARADAT/AFP) with Herbert Diess at the “dieselgate” emissions top,” it added. cheating scandal. AFP plans. tration and from Republican Steven Mnuchin, who unveiled Press reports suggested Washington The proposal would follow Senate Majority Leader Mitch a proposal last week costing that Diess had demanded up on the $2.2 trillion CARES McConnell is unclear, but Contents $916 billion. an extension of his contract employee representatives” US lawmakers introduced a Act rescue package passed in Democratic House Speaker ● The latest proposal However, that attracted lit- beyond its current end date on VW’s objectives, Oster- pair of stimulus proposals cost- the Covid-19 pandemic’s early Nancy Pelosi last week indicat- contains elements of the tle support from Democrats, in 2023 as proof he had the loh was quoted as saying. ing $908 billion that have the days, which was credited with ed she was open to the group’s and another suggestion from non-executives’ backing. VW is pumping more support of Democratic and Re- keeping the US economy from idea. original CARES Act, including McConnell that aid to state and While the company did than 35 billion euros ($43 publican lawmakers and rep- a more severe downturn. expanded $300-per-week local governments as well as li- not grant the former BMW billion) into electric vehi- resent a final push to get new But its main provisions Flurry of proposals unemployment payments for ability protections be excluded executive that vote of con- cles and plans to sell 26 aid for the pandemic-ravaged expired in recent months, and Lawmakers are up against 16 weeks and a refresh of from the package was also fidence, it did confirm his million cars from a range of economy approved before as the United States faces sky- two deadlines: the end of the the Paycheck Protection turned down. nominees to top roles. 70 electric models by 2030. Congress heads home for the rocketing Covid-19 cases, law- week, when their session ends, Programme of loans and The US economy has seen Arno Antlitz, finance Diess has publicly stat- holidays. makers from both parties as and December 26, when the grants to small businesses. mass layoffs and a sharp con- chief at high-end subsidiary ed his objective is to catch The bills would fund pro- well as the Trump administra- last benefit programs paid for traction in growth caused by Audi, will take control of up with US competitor Te- grammes to help the unem- tion have been unable to agree by the CARES Act that support ● Also included is $160 the Covid-19 pandemic, and the entire group’s finances sla. ployed, small businesses and on how much to spend in a new millions of unemployed people billion in funding for state despite signs of recovery in re- from June. Also in Monday’s state- state and local governments stimulus measure, and what to will expire. and local governments to cent months, analysts fear the Meanwhile Thomas ment, the supervisory while offering liability to some spend it on. The latest proposal con- help them recover from the resurgent virus will cause a Schmall will move from board said sportscar maker employers, but their chances “Let’s not go home for tains elements of the original pandemic renewed downturn just as the Volkswagen Components Lamborghini and motor- for passage in the final weeks Christmas, without passing CARES Act, including expand- first vaccines are being rolled to take responsibility for bike company Ducati would of President Donald Trump’s this much-needed relief for the ed $300-per-week unemploy- out. Also on lawmakers’ minds “technology” across the both remain part of the VW term remain unclear. American people,” said Repub- ment payments for 16 weeks well as liability protections for is Democratic President-elect group, while Murat Aksel group, although press re- “We have people hurting lican Senator Susan Collins, and a refresh of the Paycheck businesses facing lawsuits over Joe Biden’s inauguration in will become group head of ports and analysts regularly right now. We have an emer- who is part of the 50-member Protection Programme of loans Covid-19 exposure -- both con- January, and two elections in purchasing on top of the suggest the two world-fa- gency, so let’s do what we need bipartisan Problem Solvers and grants to small businesses. troversial issues in the negotia- Georgia that same month that same role at the VW brand. mous brands could be sold to do to take care of the emer- Caucus that backs the meas- Also included is $160 bil- tions. will decide whether Republi- Diess’ push for change off or floated separately on gency,” Republican Senator ures. lion in funding for state and lo- Others have weighed in cans maintain their majority in at VW has seen him lock the stock market. Mitt Romney said in a press The proposal’s support cal governments to help them with plans in recent weeks, the Senate or if Democrats win conference announcing the within the Trump adminis- recover from the pandemic, as including Treasury Secretary a knife-edge lead.

heradling a new era Porsche Centre Doha welcomes all-electric Taycan Tribune News Network and modern styles. For the first Doha time, the brand also offers an entirely leather-free interior. New Porsche Centre Doha, Al Boraq colours and an optional interior Automobiles Co. w.l.l., has entered accent package give customers a a new era with Tuesday’s official wide choice. For an even higher launch of the brand’s first fully degree of personalisation, Por- electric sports car, the Taycan, at sche Exclusive Manufaktur of- its showroom in Medina Centrale, fers around 90 finishing options The Pearl-Qatar. exclusively for the new four-door Available in three models com- sports saloon. prising the 4S, Turbo and Turbo S, the all-new Taycan links the Por- Charging sche heritage to the future, offer- The Taycan is the first produc- ing typical Porsche performance, tion vehicle with a system voltage everyday usability combined with of 800 volts. This is a particular cutting-edge innovations of Por- advantage when high-power sche E-Performance. charging access is available, allow- Commenting on the arrival of The new Taycan at Porsche Centre Doha L-R: Salman Jassem Al Darwish, Chairman and CEO of Porsche Centre Doha ing exceptionally short charging Porsche’s all-new Taycan, Salman and Ahed Dawood, Brand Manager of Porsche Centre Doha, with the new Taycan times. All Taycan drivers can com- Jassem Al Darwish, Chairman and fortably charge their car with up CEO of Porsche Centre Doha said: on either side house the new-look to 11kW AC charger at home with “The future of high-performance LED matrix headlights, while at the Porsche Mobile Charger Con- motoring has arrived in our coun- Taycan 4S QR411,200 the rear, a full width illuminated nect, at work on a fast industrial try, as we welcome the all-electric light bar pays its respects to the charger, or at any public charging Porsche Taycan to our showroom. Taycan Turbo QR573,100 first 911 Turbo. point while running errands. The Our new four-door sports saloon Taycan Turbo S QR44,600 On the inside, the early 1963 Taycan can be charged on either writes a new chapter in the brand’s Porsche dash provided the inspi- side using alternating current (AC) 70-year history as a genuine sports ration for the Taycan’s curved, or by using direct current (DC) on car for the age of electromobility.” free-standing 16.8-inch instrument the right side. He added: “Unlike a car with a Basic prices cluster atop the steering column “The launch of our first all- conventional internal combustion with the rounded look that’s typi- electric model comes at a time engine, the Taycan boasts high- cal of Porsche. when there is a strong focus by the powered electric motors which de- The upper and lower sections Government of Qatar on promot- liver their full torque instantly for The Turbo S is among the most further enhanced by the world’s of the dashboard stretch across ing e-mobility in a sustainable breath-taking acceleration. Thanks powerful production models in first two-speed transmission in the entire width of the vehicle in living environment,” said Salman to the lowest centre of gravity and the Porsche range, generating 761 an EV, installed on the rear axle, Future-oriented design the shape of a wing, featuring a Jassem Al Darwish. the lowest drag co-efficient in the PS (560 kW) overboost power in enabling fast acceleration and The Taycan ushers in a new central 10.9-inch infotainment This governmental initiative brand’s entire model range, the combination with Launch Control, high-end speed. The Taycan Turbo design direction with a minimalis- display and an optional passenger is supported by Porsche Centre Taycan feels like a Porsche in every while the Turbo delivers 680 PS and Turbo S share the same top tic theme that looks to the future display. Doha through the continuous sense, true to the badge on its (500 kW) and the 4S follows with speed of 260 km/h, with the 4S but at the same time pays homage The black panel replaces expansion of the local charg- bonnet.” 571 PS (420 kW) when equipped coming in at 250 km/h. According to the brand’s past. The Porsche- many hardware controls, such as ing infrastructure. At present, a with the Performance Battery to WLTP tests, all three derivatives typical ‘flyline’ that curves from switches and buttons, with on- network of AC chargers have been True sports car performance Plus, which is part of the standard feature a generous driving range. the roof down to the tail is carried screen, haptic-touch menus that set up at local Porsche facilities The Taycan Turbo S matches equipment for Qatar. When equipped with the Perfor- over from the 911. The car sits low are intuitive and can be operated and strategically located destina- the iconic 911 GT2 RS acceleration Power comes via two perma- mance battery Plus, the Taycan 4S at just 1,380mm tall and wide at by the simple voice command of tion partners. The organisation time from zero to 100 km/h in nently excited synchronous mo- leads the range with a driving range 1,966mm, giving it a purposeful “Hey Porsche”. is working on further plans to just 2.8 seconds, while the Turbo tors, one mounted on each axle, of up to 463 km, followed by the sports car stance, underlined by a The Taycan is available with a expand the charging network for completes this in 3.2 seconds and making the four-door saloon an Turbo derivative with 450 km and sloping bonnet reminiscent of the wide range of interior and exterior customers and owners of electric the 4S covers it in four seconds. all-wheel drive. Performance is the Turbo S with 412 km. 911. Two highly pronounced wings configurations, in both traditional or hybrid vehicles.