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Satyendra Pathak
Doha
Hundreds of thousands of car enthusiasts flocked to the eighth edition of Qatar Motor Show 2018 (QMS 2018) on Wednesday where auto giants unveiled 14 new cars for the first time in Qatar and in some cases in the region.
Organised under the patronage of the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani, more than 165 models of classic, sports, mid-range, and luxury cars by over 20 top international car brands are on display at the show.
Opened by the Minister of Transport and Communication HE Jassim bin Saif al Sulaiti, the five-day QMS 2018 is being held under the theme 'Driving to Innovation,' demonstrating the country's commitment to introducing the latest technology from the automotive industry.
Commenting on opening of the show, Sulaiti said,"This edition comes as Qatar intensifies its efforts to enhance innovation and safety in the field of transportation. New innovations in the use of electric cars are in line with our commitment to promote clean and sustainable energy.
"The roads, rail, port, and airport projects that the Ministry of Transport and Communication is now completing, will make Qatar's transportation sector one of the most advanced in the world. This will support the development plans of all national institutions as they work to achieve Qatar National Vision 2030."
While concept and electric cars by four international manufacturers including BMW and Hyundai hogged the limelight on the first day of the show, visitors were also treated to several unveiling of latest car models by other manufacturers.
Abdullah Abdulghani Group launched the all new Toyota Avalon for the first time in Qatar, and Lexus showed its collection of hybrid cars. Saleh AlHamad AlMana Group launched the all new Infinity QX50 car for the first time in Qatar, while Jaidah Group launched Chevrolet's Corvette ZR1 for the first time in Qatar.
AlFardan Group revealed the all-new BMW X5 2019 model for the first time in the region, while Nasser Bin Khaled Group launched Mercedes CLS 53 AMG and GLE 450 for the first time in the region.
In addition, NBK launched Mercedes S65 Maybach 2019, D90 Maxus 2019 and the MG6 2019 from MG for the first time in Qatar.
Taleb Group revealed ZX Auto's Terralord pickup 2019 for the first time in Qatar, in addition to the BX7 TS and BXi7 from Borgward.
Universal Motors displayed Lotus Car model EVORA GT430, which is one of only 60 cars around the world that were hand-manufactured for this limited edition.
Giving a sneak peak of an upcoming design, Genesis unveiled its concept of the first SUV, which will be launched under the model name of GV80.
Organised by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) in cooperation with Fira Qatar, 37 booths representing manufacturing brands, local well-known car accessory brands and partners are also showcasing their products and activities at the fair.
QTA Exhibitions Director Ahmed al Obaidli said,"This year's edition focuses on new offerings for the public, car enthusiasts, exhibitors, and the car industry in Qatar and the region in general. QTA invests in developing the business events sector as part of its strategy to grow the tourism sector as a whole.
"We work with various partners from public and private sectors to attract the largest and most important international conferences and exhibitions as well as to promote local events to attract more visitors and, consequently, increase tourism spending and support the hospitality, transport, and aviation sectors."
Over the past seven years, Obaidli said, QMS has evolved to become one of the leading motor shows in the region, strengthening its position as a platform for interaction between international brands and their local agents on one hand and consumers and potential customers in Qatar and the region on the other.
Fira Qatar General Manager Ahmad al Mulla said,"The business events sector is witnessing large growth in Qatar. QMS is one of the most prominent and highly popular events given its content and the experience it creates for visitors. It is also an opportunity for auto brands to showcase their latest innovations and technologies. With the exhibited cars and the accompanying activities, this year's show will provide an excellent experience for all visitors."
