The Los Angeles Auto Show has been postponed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, its organisers have announced.

Earlier billed for this November, the LA Auto Show will now hold in May, next year.

The press preview days were scheduled for November 18 to 19 with the public show running from November 20 to 29. Now, the show will kick off for media on May 19 and open to the general public on May 21.

“Memorial Day weekend is a fantastic time for enhanced outdoor activations and product debuts. The LA weather creates exciting new opportunities for a spring show,” Lisa Kaz, LA Auto Show Chief Executive Officer, said in a statement.

Read Also: Hyundai recalls 52,000 SUVs

Assuming the rest of the next year’s auto show season goes as planned, this will make for a super busy spring. The New York Auto Show is scheduled for early April, the LA Auto Show will take place in May and the Detroit Auto Show will resume its new June dates. Auto lovers will be interested to see how, if at all, automakers shift their product debut cycles to accommodate.

The success of these shows hinges on the country’s ability to stop the spread of COVID-19. That’s been a struggle, to say the least, but hopefully these rescheduled auto show dates are far enough into the future that the events will be able to take place as planned.

Koreanautomakers Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 600,000 vehicles in the United States and Canada to fix a brake fluid leak that could cause engine fires.

The recalls cover more than 440,000 Kia Optima midsize sedans from 2013 through 2015 and Kia Sorento SUVs from 2014 and 2015. Also covered are 203,000 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport SUVs from 2013 to 2015.

In Canada, only the Santa Fe Sport is affected; about 52,000 examples are covered there by the recall.

The affiliated automakers say brake fluid can leak inside a hydraulic control unit for the anti-lock brakes, possibly causing an electrical short that can lead to fires.

Read Also: BMW cars going electric

Kia’s recall will start October 15, while Hyundai’s will start October 23. Dealers for both firms will inspect the control units for leaks and replace them if needed at no cost to owners.

In company documents posted by U.S. safety regulators, Hyundai said it had 15 reports of engine fires caused by the fluid leaks, while Kia said it had eight. Hyundai said it’s not aware of any injuries, and Kia said it had none.

Hyundai said in a statement that there’s no need to park vehicles outdoors before the problem is fixed, but if the anti-lock brake warning light comes on, owners should not drive their vehicles and should contact a dealer. They also should disconnect the 12-volt battery by removing the positive cable, the company said.

The BMW Group is taking all the necessary measures to up the ante in the motoring world. The giant automaker is remodelling its fleet of vehicles to meet the future goal by embracing the electrification challenge, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO.

The BMW Group empire, which also includes MINI and Rolls-Royce, is planning to have 25 electrified models in its portfolio by 2023, cutting its average fleet emissions by over a third. About half of these are expected to be fully electric models, with most cars designed to accommodate a range of powertrains.

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) needs to rise to this challenge as many automakers are embracing electrified models.

If the vision of the NADDC is  aimed at transforming Nigeria into a modern industrialised nation, then its Director-General Jelani Aliyu, should be working on how the country would not be left behind.

An electric version of the next BMW 7 Series has already been confirmed, and now a camouflaged prototype model has been spotted during its development phase. The 7 Series EV may be called the BMW i7 and could be available for order it in 2022. There’ll also be an electric Jaguar XJ, plus a Mercedes S-Class-sized car called the Mercedes EQS.

The prototype i7 looks to have low-set headlights, but it’s hard to know how much is hidden by the disguise. The next-generation 7 Series will have supersized grilles, although they’ll be blanked off on the i7. At the rear, the design looks more stepped than the current car. This prototype appears to be a long-wheelbase model, which will be sold alongside a standard version.

As BMW’s flagship saloon, the forthcoming 7 Series and i7 will be full of the manufacturer’s latest technology. One of the main focus areas will be autonomous driving, and one expects the i7 to feature enough gadgetry to be able to drive itself for long periods of time, where legal. This development mule looks to be adorned with an array of sensors and cameras.

Buyers will be able to choose between a wide range of power options, including petrol or diesel with 48-volt mild-hybrid hardware, and a plug-in hybrid. The electric 7 Series will use BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, which will make its debut in the iX3 sport utility vehicle (SUV) this year. This integrates the electric motor, electronics and transmission into a single unit, reducing total weight and size.

Performance and battery details have yet to be released but to be competitive the 7 Series EV will need a range of at least 300 miles. The Tesla Model S offers a range of up to 379 miles. The iX3 has two electric motors that provide all-wheel drive and are linked to a 70kWh battery pack for an output of 532bhp and a range of up to 285 miles. Given that all the power in electric cars is available instantly, it is expected that the iX3 and the 7 Series will be blisteringly fast in a straight line.

The iX3’s maximum range is on par with other luxury electric SUVs like the Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes EQC. The Mercedes EQS, meanwhile, is said to manage up to 434 miles on a charge, so it’s likely that BMW will be aiming to get closer to this figure.

By TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO.

CFAO Motors, the sole distributor of Suzuki vehicles, has unveiled a special coronavirus (COVID-19) Business Support package for Suzuki vehicles.

The Japanese auto brand has been in existence for over 65 years and sold in different countries.

According to the General Manager of Suzuki by CFAO, Mrs. Aissatou Diouf, “this package aimed at providing succour to corporate organisations because of the negative effect on their businesses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, will offer N1 million discount for some models of Suzuki vehicles within August 15 and September 30.”

With this package, corporate organisations are entitled to the discount when they purchase any of these Suzuki models – Alto, Dzire or Ciaz – within the given period. All three models are suitable for corporate organisations as official vehicles for Executives or pool cars.

The N9.9 million Ciaz will go for N8.9 million while Dzire will be offered for N6.2 million instead of N7.2 million. The Alto was brought down to N3.5 million from N4 million.

The Suzuki Ciaz is a 1.5 litre engine luxury sized sedan; the Suzuki Dzire is a medium-sized sedan with a 1.2-litre engine displacement, while the Alto is a small smart city car.

Since CFAO Motors secured the exclusive franchise for Suzuki vehicles in the country last year, it has unveiled a couple of mouth-watering packages and incentives for sales and after-sales.

Key among the packages is the trade-in option which gives owners of vehicles the opportunity to trade in any brand of vehicle for a brand new Suzuki vehicle. CFAO Motors is also partnering with major banks for finance scheme.

The company is also offering a water-tight service package which guarantees quality servicing, genuine spare parts as well as after-sales pick-up and drop off service in Lagos.

Aside the Alto, Dzire and Ciaz, CFAO Motors also sells other reliable Suzuki models like the Jimny, Vitara, Swift, Baleno and the Ertiga. All Suzuki models are sold with a three-year/100,000 kilometer warranty, and CFAO Motors offers test drives to prospect customers to experience the Suzuki range.

Our Reporter

Some cars ooze sophistication and style which makes them undeniably an aesthetic pleasure.

There are various features of a flashy luxury car in the automotive world.

Some of these cars might be stately regardless of the size or style of vehicle, or the governing principle in its features.

Elegant Cars Trading Limited is a registered automobile business body renowned for vehicle distribution across the world. The automotive company sells new or used cars at a retail price.

It conveys its services to individual consumers for his or her own use. The transaction involved in purchasing vehicles and luxury cars may occur through a number of different sales channels, and online sales. But mainly in an auto storefront, through direct sales, or direct mail by a sales representative.

The stated goals of the company are to ensure a prompt delivery in terms of its best product services, thereby envisaging a vision of obtaining vast recognition in providing an outstanding delivery. Hence, a valid basis for supplying the best deals on opulent cars. By certifying uniformity in feasible pricing, quality services and clients contentment.

The elegant car trading company has portrayed an exemplary service and an advanced idea that is far ahead of the competitive nature of the business. Thus, its luxury cars traded in the showrooms are; Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Cadillac, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Mercedes Benz, Mini Cooper, Porsche, Range Rover, Rolls Royce, and Ford raptor.

By Tajudeen Adebanjo

Five days after it featured on The Nation Motoring section, Kia Sonet has received 6,523 bookings.

According to Kia Motors India, the compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) upcoming model has generated an overwhelming response, with a record 6,523 bookings, the form said in a statement.

With the introduction of Kia Sonet, Kia is assuring its clients worldwide of a new dawn in the automobile world.

The Kia Sonet is equipped with Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus protection to further promote the safety of drivers and their loved ones.

This feature sets the Sonet apart in its segment and once again sets a new benchmark in its category. The new Smart Pure Air Purifier in Sonet has a two-level purification system.The pollutant-cleansing HEPA filter incorporates N29 which uses fiber made from nano-ionic bonding technology of copper sulphide, to remove pollutants and bacteria from the cabin.

Read Also: Kia unveils ‘Air Purifier anti-virus’ Sonet

The company would like to assure the customers that it is fully committed to delivering Sonet in the least time possible with Anantpur plant operating with optimum efficiency.

Kia Motors had begun Sonet bookings from Wednesday midnight.

“The tremendous response to the all-new Sonet, proves that there is never a bad time to launch a good product. It also shows that the faith of Indian consumers in Brand Kia has grown leaps and bounds over just one year of our operation in India,” Kia Motors India MD and Chief Executive Officer Kookhyun Shim said.

The company would like to assure the customers that it is fully committed to delivering Sonet in the least time possible with Anantpur plant operating with optimum efficiency, he added.

Kia Sonet, when launched next month, will compete with Maruti Vitara Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, among others.

For those who desire luxury and a spirited driving experience in the same ultra-pricey motor car, the 2020 Rolls-Royce Ghost is the answer. The interior boasts sumptuous leather seating and handsomely crafted wood veneers. A 6.6-litre V-12 engine runs near-silently under the Ghost’s long bonnet and provides effortless acceleration, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

The Ghost’s suspension is tuned for comfort and its driving demeanour doesn’t try to be anything but plush. The Ghost is a Rolls-Royce to take when the parking is tighter and the chauffeur’s gets the day off. Smaller, in the same way a tanker is to a supertanker, the Ghost keeps Rolls-Royce’s imperious manner, but hides it behind slightly more bluff edges and not quite as aggrandising a front grille.

Indeed, driven and specified conservatively, the Ghost doesn’t even draw that much attention from other drivers or passers-by. And those that do notice it don’t react with fury and vitriol, as they might to a Ferrari, Lamborghini or, perhaps, Rolls Phantom, but with respect and deference.

You get let out of side-turnings, and nobody dare tailgate you. After all, you might be some lesser-known royal and, therefore, worthy of a measure of respect. Or you could have them killed.

In addition to this luxury, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Lagos, the exclusive representative of the iconic luxury brand, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Nigeria, has come up with a special package designed specifically for all Rolls-Royce Ghost owners to get a bespoke ownership (Aftersales) service free.

Coscharis Group, the franchise owner of Rolls-Rolls Motor Cars in Nigeria, said the package is to delight owners of the Rolls-Royce Ghost  for them to enjoy their favourite luxury item, especially during the pandemic that has restricted movements for some time.

According to Abiona Babarinde, Coscharis General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, the offer was to honour their customers, adding: “More importantly for us is that we adhere strictly to all the COVID–19 health protocols for both the home and workshop service as we put premium on our customers and staff in terms of safety. This offering is bespoke in nature because you have an option to have this service delivered for you in the comfort of your home or we come and take the car to our workshop, all at no cost to the customer under a strict precautionary measures’’.

Coscharis Group Executive Director, Ownership Services, Cosmas Maduka Jnr, said: ‘’We guarantee top notch ownership service for all Ghost owners leveraging the expertise of our Rolls-Royce certified technicians that will deliver the service with the right tools and original parts. This, ultimately, gives the customer the peace of mind for a seamless package that resonates with the luxury brand.’’

As a result, some customers that have shown interest had enjoyed the special package exclusive for Rolls-Royce Ghost Car owners, which started early this month  while more have equally indicated their interest to keep their luxury car in good shape. The special Health Check offerings will last till the end of next month.

The Ghost comes in several flavours. There are standard and long-wheelbase versions.

All Ghosts come with a large infotainment touchscreen in the front with navigation, but a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system is an option that allows passengers to control the car’s radio, navigation, and other infotainment features remotely. An 18-speaker premium stereo system is also available to replace the car’s standard 16-speaker unit.

Other than a new dark-brushed metal finish option for the Ghost’s interior dashboard trim, the car carries over unchanged from the 2019 model. Since this year will be the final model year before a full redesign, Rolls-Royce is sending the Ghost off with a limited production Zenith model.

The Ghost’s hood is topped by the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy ornament. Underneath it lives a twin-turbo, 6.6-litre V-12 good for 563 horsepower that’s paired to a satellite-aided gearbox. This setup uses GPS data to read the roadscape ahead of you in an effort to anticipate your driving needs and shift gears at precisely the right moment. Black Badge models make another 40 ponies; Rolls claims a governed top speed of 155 mph for every version. The last Ghost wthat was tested had the standard power level, but it still managed to move with authority in a straight line—even though it listed like a sailboat when going around corners.

To enter the cavernous back seat on the Ghost Series II, have your personal assistant open the rear-hinged door. Available with a short or long wheelbase, the Series II provides generous spread-out space; one-percenters will be happy to know that they will be treated to some of the finest interior materials on the planet.

The cabin can even be outfitted with a headliner that replicates a star-studded night sky, while two 9.2-inch screens complete the Ghost’s rear-seat theatre system.

Our Reporter

Owning a car is a proclivity for spectacular opulence. Ever since the dawn of luxury automobiles, the urge to drive cars heightened as its inception over fifteen years ago has made a series of car dealers spur from the zones of the world.

Exotic cars have been a pacesetter for concessionaires of brand spanking new and previously owned cars. These cars belong to luxury sports and exotic brands.

Elegant Cars Limited Liability Company is a certified auto broker. It was established to be one of the fastest-growing auto merchandise in the United Arab Emirates. Thus, It is an auto broker of export demand for Africa and Europe.

However, Elegant Cars is a legally registered business entity, renowned for vehicle local distribution. The auto company sells new or used cars at the retail sale, as it conveys services to an individual consumer for his or her own use.

READ ALSO: Making Nigeria an automobile hub

The transaction itself may occur through a number of different sales channels, such as online, in an auto storefront, through direct sales, or direct mail. The goal of the company is to ensure a prompt delivery in terms of the best product services and to envisage a vision of obtaining vast recognition in providing the best services. Hence, a valid basis for supplying the best deals on opulent cars. By certifying uniformity in feasible pricing, quality services and clients contentment.

Furthermore, with a broad spectrum of trending models of classy cars, The elegant car trading company has portrayed exemplary services and advanced ideas which is far ahead of the competitive structure of the business.

The automobile company parades ample options of top-end and high-quality brands.

The fleet of luxury cars traded by the company includes Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Cadillac, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Maserati, McLaren, Mercedes Benz, Mini Cooper, Porsche, Range Rover, Rolls Royce, and Ford raptor.

Whilst these automated beauties of combustion adorns the showrooms of the company, its customers remains triggered by its mission.