Latest from ArabGT
ArabGT
3 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
GM Leads the Race to Reinvent EV Battery Technology
'Don't put all your eggs in one basket'—that seems to be the philosophy driving General Motors' current strategy. While the automaker is moving forward with a new generation of internal combustion engines, it's equally committed to advancing electric vehicle (EV) battery technologies. GM's focus is clear: enhance battery quality, extend driving range, improve charging speed, and lower overall cost. At the heart of this effort lies an ambitious research initiative involving seven distinct battery chemistries. Among these, sodium-ion, solid-state batteries, and silicon-based anodes stand out as particularly promising, and each plays a unique role in GM's vision for next-generation EVs. GM's Rise to the Top of the Battery Industry GM has emerged as a dominant force in battery development, now standing as the largest battery cell producer in North America—surpassing Tesla—thanks to its joint venture with LG Energy Solution. A key contributor to this leadership is the Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Michigan, established in 2022. This facility gives GM full control over the development pipeline, from raw material selection to vehicle integration, allowing for rapid innovation and scalable production in-house. Sodium-Ion Batteries: Abundant and Affordable Sodium-ion batteries are still early in their development, but their advantages make them a compelling alternative to lithium-based cells. They're safer, perform better in cold temperatures, and rely on sodium—a material that's about 400 times more abundant than lithium. With countries like China already deploying sodium-ion batteries in production vehicles, GM is leveraging its technical know-how to explore viable use cases and build out the necessary supply infrastructure. Solid-State Batteries: The Energy Storage Breakthrough Solid-state batteries are widely considered the future of EV power storage. By replacing traditional liquid electrolytes with solid materials like ceramics or sulfides, these batteries can deliver higher energy density, greater safety, and faster charging times. Although manufacturing at scale remains a challenge, GM is actively pursuing this frontier through ongoing research at the Wallace Center, alongside global players like Toyota, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Silicon Anodes: A Leap in Performance Another area of focus for GM is the use of silicon in battery anodes. Replacing or supplementing graphite with silicon significantly boosts energy capacity and shortens charging time. GM is already conducting real-world tests of large-format silicon cells built to automotive standards, laying the groundwork for future implementation across its EV lineup. Looking Ahead: LMR Batteries and the 2028 Vision By 2028, GM plans to debut its first production vehicle powered by lithium manganese-rich (LMR) prismatic cells. These new batteries are expected to offer more than 400 miles of range, reduce overall vehicle weight, and cost similarly to today's lithium iron phosphate (LFP) options. While some chemistries may take longer to mature, GM's commitment to innovation remains firm—even amid shifting political landscapes. Attempts to dismantle clean energy initiatives won't derail its long-term battery R&D. Ultimately, GM's expansive investment in diverse battery technologies is a reflection of its long-term vision: to lead the future of electric mobility through science, adaptability, and self-reliance.
ArabGT
4 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
China's Zero-Mileage Used Cars Explained
Imagine heading to a used car lot and finding it filled with shiny electric vehicles that look like they just rolled off the production line. The 'new car' smell still fills the cabin, the seats are wrapped in plastic, and the odometer barely registers any mileage. Yet, the paperwork says it's a used car. This isn't a fictional scenario, but part of a growing practice in China's auto industry: the 'zero-mileage used car.' Chinese car manufacturers are registering brand-new vehicles as used and exporting them abroad at lower prices. This tactic, known as the export of zero-mileage used cars, has become increasingly widespread—actively supported by local governments, even as it draws criticism from top industry officials and regulators. How does the scheme work? It starts the moment a car leaves the factory. It's registered in the name of a local dealer or affiliated company, receiving official license plates in China. This formally reclassifies it as a used vehicle. In some cases, no actual payment is made to the manufacturer, or it is deferred—making the transaction largely symbolic for the sake of recording a sale. The car is then resold domestically or exported abroad as 'used.' This allows manufacturers to log it as a completed sale and book the revenue—without the vehicle ever reaching an actual consumer in China. For local governments, the strategy is a convenient way to boost economic output and meet growth targets, often linked to officials' promotions and access to funding from Beijing. Why is China doing this? The answer lies in the structural challenges facing its auto industry: overproduction, the aftermath of massive government subsidies, and fierce domestic competition. As a result, automakers are resorting to any means—sometimes accounting tricks—to clear excess inventory and inflate performance metrics. According to Wei Jianjun, CEO of Great Wall Motors, more than 4,000 dealers are believed to be involved in this scheme. He compared the situation to the collapse of property giant Evergrande, suggesting that a similar crisis may be brewing in the EV sector. Local government support Despite growing concerns, at least 20 local governments—including major provinces like Guangdong and Sichuan—have openly backed the export of zero-mileage used cars. Support measures include simplified registration processes, fast-tracked tax rebates, free warehouse space near borders, and promotional funding through e-commerce platforms like Alibaba. In Shenzhen, local authorities pledged in 2024 to expand these exports, targeting 400,000 vehicles annually. Guangzhou has even allocated additional registration quotas specifically for gasoline vehicles intended for export. Inflated figures and a distorted market In 2023, China surpassed Japan to become the world's largest car exporter, shipping 6.41 million vehicles. The China Automobile Dealers Association estimates that about 6% of these were zero-mileage used cars. Within the used car segment, the figure is even more striking—around 90%. These exports largely include gasoline-powered vehicles, alongside a substantial share of electric cars that benefited from domestic subsidies and yield healthy profit margins when resold in regions like Central Asia. Global reactions The practice has triggered mixed reactions worldwide. Russia has banned the import of zero-mileage used Chinese cars from brands that already have local dealerships. Jordan has started redefining what qualifies as a used car, setting a minimum time between registration and export. Domestically, however, official silence prevails. China's ministries of commerce and foreign affairs have not responded to Reuters' inquiries, raising more questions about the legality and ethics of the practice.
ArabGT
5 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach enters the world of ultra-luxury convertibles as the sportiest and most extravagant model in the brand's history. Joining the esteemed Maybach family—alongside the S-Class, GLS, and EQS SUV—it exemplifies Mercedes-Benz's strategy of delivering top-tier luxury within its existing lineup rather than launching a standalone marque like Rolls-Royce or Bentley. This model combines open-top driving exhilaration, limousine-like comfort, and supercar performance into a single, finely crafted package. The model has already launched in Europe and is expected to reach Middle Eastern markets by year-end. Exterior Design From the first glance, the SL Monogram Maybach captivates with its meticulous detailing and assertive presence. The hood, finished in Obsidian Black and adorned with the Maybach monogram using the innovative PixelPaint process, becomes a visual centerpiece with its three-dimensional depth. This handcrafted multi-layer process involves a base coat, printed monogram layer, and multiple hand-sanded clear coats, creating a truly bespoke effect. The signature A-shaped vertical-slat grille is finished in polished chrome and illuminated, while rose gold accents in the headlights add a refined contrast. Chrome trim surrounds the windshield and rear diffuser, and the exclusive dual exhaust outlets with a horizontal chrome bar complete the sporty yet stately rear profile. The light black Acoustic Comfort soft top is subtly patterned with Maybach graphics, and 21-inch forged wheels—available in five-hole or multi-spoke designs—accentuate the car's elegance when the roof is down. 2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach Interior Inside, the SL Monogram Maybach offers a two-seat configuration designed for ultimate indulgence. The rear seats are omitted to enhance space and comfort. The interior is wrapped in sustainably tanned MANUFAKTUR Exclusive Nappa leather in crystal white, which covers the seats, door panels, center console, and rear cabin wall. The elegant floral seat design and galvanised chrome trim radiate a serene, airy ambience. Brand-typical quilting on the seats ensures comfort, and lowered bolsters allow easy access. Advanced insulation using foam layers, acoustic fleeces, and aluminium butyl materials guarantees a quiet, cocoon-like experience—distinctly more serene than performance-oriented AMG models. Mechanical Specifications Under the hood lies a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm of torque. It's mated to a 9G-TRONIC automatic gearbox and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Semi-active hydraulic roll stabilization replaces traditional anti-roll bars for smoother cornering and superior ride comfort. Custom Maybach damper valves and soft steel springs deliver plush suspension response, while Pirelli P-Zero tires and rear-axle steering enhance both agility and stability. Four drive modes—Comfort, Maybach, Sport, and Individual—let drivers tailor their experience. Maybach and Comfort modes soften throttle response for smooth cruising, while Sport mode sharpens dynamics and activates the richer engine tone for an assertive character. 2026 Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach Price The Mercedes-Benz SL Monogram Maybach 2026 starts at approximately $250,000 globally—roughly 937,500 SAR or 918,000 AED. This commanding figure secures one of the most exclusive and technologically advanced roadsters on the market, combining unmatched elegance, craftsmanship, and dynamic ability.
ArabGT
5 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
New Ford Expedition Tackles Hot Weather Testing in Dubai
Ford is putting the new Ford Expedition through intense real-world testing across the Middle East to ensure it performs reliably in some of the world's harshest driving environments. The automaker has integrated the SUV into its long-standing hot-weather testing program, a regional initiative aimed at validating the durability of Ford vehicles before they are offered in local markets. Each year, Ford engineers test vehicles like the new Ford Expedition under the blistering sun of Dubai, simulating daily usage across diverse terrains—including paved roads, gravel paths, and desert dunes. The goal is to assess the SUV's resilience under extreme conditions, focusing on areas such as engine performance, cooling efficiency, air conditioning output, and material integrity. The new Ford Expedition is subject to a systematic testing process designed to identify any vulnerabilities in its systems and components. High temperatures, abrasive sand, and sudden shifts in terrain are part of the region's natural challenges—conditions Ford says make the Gulf an ideal testbed. Before any model is officially introduced in Middle Eastern or North African markets, it must first undergo this comprehensive evaluation. Ford's engineers focus particularly on the effects of prolonged heat exposure. The company acknowledges that the new Ford Expedition must withstand elevated engine bay temperatures, increased stress on mechanical components, and the risk of accelerated wear on interior materials due to sun exposure. Specialized equipment is used to measure variables like coolant effectiveness, oil pressure, cabin temperature control, and the durability of dashboard materials under direct sunlight. One of the key components examined is the air conditioning system, which Ford engineers describe as essential in Gulf countries. In the new Ford Expedition, this system is tested for rapid cooling, humidity control, and consistent performance even when the vehicle is parked under the sun for extended periods. The interior is also evaluated for long-term exposure to UV rays, ensuring materials remain intact and visually stable over time. Mechanical reliability is another major focus. The new Ford Expedition's engine is tested for performance stability, with engineers tracking temperature spikes, throttle response, and system recovery during heavy load and off-road conditions. The cooling system is also placed under strain to verify it can handle extended operation in ambient temperatures well above 40°C. According to Ford, several updates in the new Ford Expedition were implemented in direct response to data collected from these Gulf-based trials. Features such as an integrated cooler box, a specialized front cooling module, and a redesigned front end to improve off-road clearance have been included to better align the vehicle with regional usage patterns. Karthik Ramanathan, chief engineer on the Expedition program, noted that hot-weather testing is a strategic priority for Ford. He explained that insights from the Middle East inform not just design adjustments, but also broader vehicle development plans. Adrian Aguirre, lead engineer for the new Ford Expedition, added that regional feedback helped refine specific features for this market. While these tests do not guarantee long-term reliability, they serve as a key development checkpoint. Ford acknowledges that continued monitoring post-launch is just as important to ensure that the new Ford Expedition performs consistently under customer use. In conclusion, Ford's hot-weather testing program highlights its efforts to adapt the new Ford Expedition for Middle Eastern climates. Through detailed field testing and iterative engineering, the company aims to deliver an SUV capable of handling the region's heat, sand, and rugged terrain with confidence and reliability.
ArabGT
5 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
Which Lasts Longer? Electric Vehicles or Traditional Gas Cars?
While skeptics often cast doubt on electric vehicle battery longevity, a fresh study offers compelling evidence that modern EV batteries can outlast the average gas-powered car by several years—with room to spare. According to new data from UK-based telematics provider Geotab, today's EV batteries degrade very slowly—just around 1.8% per year on average. At that rate, most batteries can comfortably continue functioning for 20 years or more, significantly outlasting the average U.S. vehicle, which is now about 14 years old. Despite persistent myths, battery degradation is proving to be far less concerning than critics suggest. Over two decades, an EV battery will typically retain around 64% of its original capacity, assuming no major failures—hardly a fatal flaw, especially given the typical driving patterns and urban use of most EV owners. Importantly, large-scale data backs this up. The study analyzed performance from over 10,000 electric vehicles, showing that serious battery failures are extremely rare. For EVs produced in the past decade, the failure rate is under 0.5%, which positions EV batteries as one of the most reliable components in the vehicle. That said, battery wear isn't uniform. Degradation tends to occur more noticeably in the early years, before stabilizing—then may pick up again near the battery's end-of-life. Hot climates are especially hard on battery health, as heat accelerates chemical breakdown. Parking in shaded areas and avoiding charging during extreme heat can help extend battery life. Today's EVs are equipped with sophisticated thermal management systems to regulate battery temperature, but fast charging—particularly DC rapid charging—still puts a bit more strain on the battery compared to slower Level 1 or Level 2 charging. For those driving EVs with NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) or NCM (nickel-cobalt-manganese) batteries, keeping the charge between 20% and 80% is a good strategy to preserve longevity. LFP (lithium-iron-phosphate) batteries are less sensitive to full charges, although one study suggests that constantly charging them to 100% could also reduce their lifespan slightly. Ultimately, all batteries degrade, just like combustion engines wear down, hoses crack, or fuel pumps corrode over time—even if the car is rarely driven. But unlike the outdated fears, the reality is clear: with minimal effort and smart charging habits, EV owners can expect their battery to easily outlive the lifespan of the typical gasoline vehicle.
