The automotive industry is witnessing a significant transition of power and market control from Western manufacturers to Eastern players. Here are some noteworthy developments from the previous week that highlight this trend:
EXEED Launches New Energy Vehicles in the Region
The Chinese brand EXEED revealed its lineup of electric and hybrid vehicles at Skydive Dubai on April 9. Featuring Super Hybrid REEV technology, the fully electric EXLANTIX ET SUV and the EXLANTIX ES sedan boast a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. Both models emphasize safety, having received 5-star ratings from C-NCAP and are equipped with advanced driver assistance technologies.
The EXLANTIX ET SUV presents options for both fully electric and range-extended powertrains, utilizing EXEED’s innovative Golden Range Extender Technology to alleviate concerns about charging. The SUV is equipped with an adaptive air suspension system, promising a smooth ride, a low drag coefficient of only 0.266 Cd, and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Inside, passengers enjoy an intelligent cockpit, zero-gravity seating, and Arabic voice command capabilities.
The EXEED EXLANTIX ES, the brand’s first sedan, showcases a sporty and artistic design with a superb aerodynamic profile, featuring a drag coefficient of 0.205 Cd. Notable design elements include frameless doors and a D-shaped steering wheel, along with performance that allows it to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds.
Additionally, EXEED introduced the RX Plug-in Hybrid SUV powered by the Super Hybrid REEV System, which offers a total range surpassing 1,300 km and achieves fuel efficiency as low as 1.2L/100 km with a full charge. Its Three-Speed Super Hybrid Transmission provides 445 kW of power through 11 gearing combinations. Safety is enhanced by a high-performance CATL battery that incorporates EXEED’s M3P material system for real-time diagnostics and rapid power shutdown within 2 milliseconds during collisions. Designed for extreme environments, it operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -35°C to 60°C, making it well-suited for UAE conditions.
Kia Tasman Launches in UAE Pickup Truck Market
Kia Middle East & Africa unveiled the all-new Tasman pickup during the UAE Tasman Roadshow in Dubai on April 9-10. Backed by 20 years of research and experience in off-road capabilities, the Tasman is engineered for diverse landscapes while delivering practicality and SUV-like comfort.
<pIt features a bold, boxy aesthetic inspired by Kia's Opposites United concept and introduces an industry-first factory-backed customization program with 12 original equipment manufacturer (OEM) packages. With nine exterior colors and four interior options such as Espresso Brown and Terracotta Brown, it caters to professionals, adventurers, and families alike. The environmentally conscious interior utilizes bio-plastics and recycled PET fabric alongside eco-friendly paints.
The Tasman is equipped with advanced technologies, including Kia Connect Car Services that offer over 50 smart functions, Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, and a premium sound system by Harman Kardon. Designed for high performance, it offers 252 mm ground clearance, an impressive 32° approach angle (in the X-Pro variant), a payload capacity of 1,195 kg, and can tow up to 3.5 tons. The company noted that the vehicle has undergone extensive testing—1,777 tests across more than 18,000 cycles, including off-road, towing, and track assessments—demonstrating its reliability.
Two engine options will be available: a 2.5L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a 2.2L turbocharged diesel engine available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Kia Tasman will be available in the region starting August this year, with pricing in the UAE beginning at AED 118,290 for the Base LX 2WD trim, up to AED 178,090 for the high-end X-Pro+ variant.
Geely Introduces Cityray Compact Crossover to Middle East
Geely continues to expand its footprint in the automotive market by unveiling the new compact crossover, the Geely Cityray, during an event at the Festival Arena in Dubai Festival City. The Cityray combines stylish elements from its larger counterpart, the Starray, with the efficient powertrain found in the smaller Coolray model.
Measuring 4,510mm in length, 1,650mm in height, and 1,865mm in width, the Geely Cityray is built on the CMA architecture. It features a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, delivering 178 PS and 290 Nm of torque—allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.6 seconds. The interior is designed with a contemporary cabin that includes a 4-spoke steering wheel and a toggle-style gear shifter, enhanced with plastic trim featuring graphic designs. On the technology side, it offers a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen with 2K resolution and anti-glare features.
The Cityray is available in three distinct trims. The entry-level GC model, priced at Dh86,500, includes features such as 18-inch wheels, a 4-speaker audio system, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), parking sensors, Hill Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control. The mid-range GK variant, priced at Dh91,500, upgrades to a 6-speaker audio system, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, Blind Spot Detection, and six airbags. The top-tier GF+ Black Roof trim comes with a price of Dh97,900 and adds features like a black roof, electric tailgate, an 8-speaker sound system, power-adjustable seats, and 19-inch wheels. All models come standard with LED headlights and faux leather upholstery.
The pricing includes a 7-year/250,000 km warranty, complimentary insurance totaling Dh3,000 support (for financing or cash purchases), and a service contract valid for 3 years or 60,000 km.