DOHA: Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, yesterday opened the eighth edition of Qatar Motor Show (QMS), which is showcasing 165 models by top international car brands.

A total of 14 new models were unveiled on the first day of the show, which has emerged as one of the leading motor shows in the region.

Commenting on the opening of the show, the Minister of Transport and Communications, 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,” he added.

The five-day show will run until Saturday at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center.

This year’s show is being held under the theme ‘Driving to Innovation,’ and is the first since QMS adopted a new strategy aimed at enriching content, focusing on the concepts of innovation and sustainability.

“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,” said Ahmed Al Obaidli, Director of Exhibitions at QTA.

“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,” he added.

Organised by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) in cooperation with Fira Qatar, the show features 37 booths representing manufacturing brands, local well-known car accessory brands and partners.

Ahmad Al Mulla, General Manager of Fira Qatar, 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.”

Latest models of classic, sports, mid-range, and luxury cars offered by top international car brands are on display this year.

On the first day, several new models were launched. 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 – all, for the first time in Qatar.

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.

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.

Exhibiting brands and companies at the QMS include BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Infinity, Chevrolet, Maxus, MG, Mitsubishi Motors, Harley Davidson, Jaguar, Land Rover, Genesis, ZX Auto, Borgward, Universal Motors (Lotus), Crystal Car, Auto Stacker, Kracher, Breu, Four Stroke, Car Care Centre, Al Jaber Car Care Centre, Pegasus, My Tyre, and Titanium (Smart Line).

Source: The Peninsula Qatar