cars

Subterms

    Latest story

    138 Shares

    Eco-luxury drives the future: Blacklane ME’s bold move ahead of COP28

    by

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    In an ambitious stride towards sustainable luxury travel, Blacklane Middle East has announced a tenfold expansion of its all-electric fleet.
    The providers of premium global chauffeur services have unveiled first-class Mercedes EQS-SUVs in response to the region’s burgeoning demand for eco-friendly transportation.
    The move, strategically timed ahead of COP28, solidifies Blacklane ME’s commitment to green initiatives in the UAE.

    The regional expansion doesn’t stop at vehicles; it extends to the workforce with a noteworthy surge in female chauffeurs. Over 50% of the 120 chauffeurs completing the rigorous training at Blacklane’s Chauffeur Training Academy are women, a move that underscores the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

    Dubai residents can now effortlessly book the new Mercedes-Benz EQS-SUVs through the app, offering both on-demand and scheduled rides.
    Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager of Blacklane ME, emphasized the company’s dedication to impeccable service standards, reflecting the high calibre of their offerings. “We are witnessing an exhilarating phase of expansion in our business with remarkable tenfold growth of our dedicated all-electric fleet since March 2023. The introduction of our newest fleet member, the Mercedes EQS-SUVs, directly reflects the high calibre of services that Blacklane ME is committed to delivering,” said Nicolas Soucaille, General Manager of Blacklane ME. “Our focus on maintaining the highest standards for our chauffeurs has been exceptionally well-received by the local residents, driving unprecedented progress in a market that values sustainability as much as we do,” Nicholas expressed.

    The UAE expansion, covering Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah, caters to both B2B and B2C customers, ensuring reliable and convenient transportation options. Notably, all Blacklane rides globally are now 100% carbon neutral, a pioneering move in the industry to offset emissions from every journey.
    Internationally, Blacklane operates in over 50 countries and recently expanded its City-to-City service to nearly 200 routes, with the Dubai – Abu Dhabi route becoming a local favorite. The company’s global revenues soared to a record €200 million in 2022, marking a year of strategic advancements.
    As Blacklane paves the way for the future of premium chauffeur services, its commitment to inspiring a better future and setting industry standards for climate protection stands as a testament to its mission and vision for discerning travelers worldwide.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Blacklane  More

    More stories

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      End of an era: Torsten Müller-Ötvös retires as Rolls-Royce CEO

      by

      Emirates Man

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      After nearly 14 years at the helm, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, the CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, has announced his retirement.
      Müller-Ötvös, the marque’s longest-serving CEO since its inception, leaves behind a legacy of transformation and growth.
      Under his leadership, Rolls-Royce transitioned from being a pinnacle automotive manufacturer to a true luxury house. The company’s annual sales increased sixfold, bringing substantial economic benefits to the United Kingdom.
      Notably, Müller-Ötvös introduced the first all-electric Rolls-Royce in the marque’s 120-year history, paving the way for a fully electric Rolls-Royce product portfolio by the end of 2030.
      Müller-Ötvös’s tenure also saw the introduction of several new models, including the Rolls-Royce Wraith, Dawn, and Cullinan, the marque’s first-ever SUV. This year, Rolls-Royce is set to launch the Spectre, an ultra-luxury electric super coupé, further advancing its journey toward electric mobility.

      One of Müller-Ötvös’s significant achievements was redefining Bespoke craftsmanship at Rolls-Royce, ensuring that every vehicle leaving the company’s Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence in Goodwood, West Sussex, is tailor-made to the specific wishes of its owner.
      Furthermore, Müller-Ötvös’s strategic vision expanded the brand’s appeal, attracting a younger clientele, with the average age of a Rolls-Royce client now at just 43.
      His legacy extends beyond sales figures. Rolls-Royce under his leadership contributed significantly to the UK economy, employing over 2,500 individuals from more than 50 nationalities in West Sussex.
      Chris Brownridge, currently CEO of BMW UK, will succeed Müller-Ötvös on December 1, 2023. Brownridge brings nearly three decades of experience with the BMW Group and is poised to lead Rolls-Royce into its all-electric future.

      Chris Brownridge
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      The Aston Martin DB5 celebrates its 60 years of revered British automobile craftsmanship

      by

      Emirates Man

      by Camille Macawili
      2 hours ago

      The Aston Martin DB5: world’s most iconic car turns 60.
      Six decades on, the DB5 continues to be an icon of British culture, design, and innovation and firmly establishes Aston Martin as one of Britain’s desirable luxury automobile brands.

      First introduced in 1963, the DB5 has become one of the most iconic automobiles thanks to its timeless and svelte aesthetic that has graced in a series of James Bond movies over the course of more than half a century. It includes celebrity patrons like Sir Paul McCartney of The Beatles, Rolling Stone’s Mick Jagger, Elle McPherson, and Ralph Lauren as its avid fans.
      To celebrate the landmark anniversary, the DB5 is photographed alongside the Super Tourer DB12. This latest addition to the DB lineage is a testament to Aston Martin’s commitment to continuously pushing the envelope in the automobile space.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Optimize your time – The Horology Issue with Blacklane

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Amy Sessions
      34 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 13 IMAGES
      Words & Creative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotographer: Ziga MihelcicFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Ania Poniatowska at MMGModel: Kristina Stojanovic at MMG
      Welcome to The Horology Issue.
      For the cover, we have partnered with Blacklane, a luxury brand synonymous with a top-tier approach to saving time, with a dedicated team of professional Academy-trained chauffeurs that allow you to maximise your travel time.
      Blacklane’s Chauffeur Service delivers an unparalleled ride experience so you can optimize your travel time.
      You are the first all- electric fleet Chauffer service. Can you expand on this initiative and why it was so key to be sustainable?
      At Blacklane, we understand the significance of creating a sustainable future for generations to come. Our all-electric fleet in Dubai is a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship. We aim to make a positive impact by setting an example for others in the industry to follow, joining us in our mission towards sustainability. Since 2017, we have been offsetting carbon emissions, and in 2021, we went further by offsetting our remaining emissions from our inception. The next logical step was to reduce emissions altogether which is reflected by our transition to an all-electric fleet, this move also brings us one step closer to achieving our goal of becoming a net zero company by 2040.
      Blacklane is a luxury brand. What are the key signifiers for you of luxury?
      We pride ourselves on delivering a luxurious experience that sets us apart from other transportation options. We believe that certain signifiers such as comfort, convenience, and professionalism, are essential to our guests and our brand. We place a strong emphasis on attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of our guest’s rides is carefully considered and executed to perfection. Our chauffeurs are meticulously trained to provide a seamless and safe experience for our guests. From the cleanliness of the vehicle to the in-car amenities and features, we go above and beyond to exceed expectations. Guests can indulge in a variety of in-car amenities, such as choosing your own playlist, sipping on still or sparkling water, and even enjoying a massage in a cool-air ventilated seat. We believe that these small touches make a big difference, ensuring that the journey with us is not only comfortable but also enjoyable. Quality is another important signifier. We believe that our clients deserve the best, which is why we offer a fleet of premium vehicles that are well-maintained and equipped with the latest technology, included HEPA filtered cabins that remove fine particles and other pollutants from the air inside the car, ensuring our guests breathe clean, fresh air throughout their journey. We also understand that convenience is key and with our app, guests can select from our on-demand or pre-scheduled service, ensuring that they have the flexibility to book a ride that works best for them. We understand that unexpected delays can happen, which is why every booking comes with a complimentary 15-minute wait time, for airport pickups, we go the extra mile by offering a 60-minute complimentary wait time with a meet and greet service.
      What is the core DNA of the brand?
      At the heart of our brand, Blacklane is driven by a mission to create true peace of mind today for a better tomorrow. Through our commitment to delivering perfect experiences around the world, we seek to inspire a brighter future that is sustainable, socially responsible, and economically sound. Our core DNA is built around providing a seamless, premium travel experience that is tailored to individual needs. Our commitment to excellence, reliability, and professionalism is at the forefront of everything we do, ensuring that every journey with Blacklane is a memorable one.
      You train all Chauffeur’s in the Academy- can you tell us what this involves?
      Our chauffeurs are the backbone of our service. Their comprehensive training through the Blacklane Chauffeur Academy is essential in delivering unparalleled experiences to our clients. The Academy ensures that our chauffeurs are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to create seamless and memorable travel experiences. The program covers a diverse range of topics, from professional driving techniques, safety procedures, customer service, communication skills, navigation and route planning, vehicle maintenance and upkeep, to etiquette and discretion. Our training program, developed by global experts and conducted by experienced instructors, guarantees that our chauffeurs are always up to date on industry best practices.
      You have the option to have a female Chauffeur- is this popular with female clients in the region?
      We recognize the importance of personalization when it comes to delivering an exceptional ride experience and understand that our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have unique preferences, which is why we offer a range of options to better meet their needs. For instance, we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests who have opted for our female chauffeurs and we’re proud to offer this option to ensure that every aspect of the travel experience is tailored to their preferences.
      Time is precious. How does this service allow its clients to optimize their time?
      Time is one of our most valuable commodities, and we’re dedicated to providing a service that optimizes every moment of our guest’s travel experience. Imagine being able to work on a crucial project, make an important call, catch up on some reading, or simply relax in a massage seat during your daily commute. Our easy-to-use app enables quick and hassle-free bookings, while our commitment to punctuality ensures that you’ll arrive at your destination on time.
      As well as advance booking trips you can book a car by the hour- has this been a popular feature to date?
      Our hourly booking option resonates deeply with the discerning clientele who value adaptability and the freedom to dictate their own schedules. This sought-after feature offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing our guests to travel the city at their leisure, enjoying the convenience of a dedicated chauffeur and a luxurious vehicle especially as temperatures rise. Our emphasis on personalization and timesaving ensures that we can cater to the needs of our guests, whenever and wherever they need us.
      You can now download the app from the iOS store here.
      May’s – The Horology Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Elevate Your Ride with Blacklane’s premium Chauffeur service in Dubai

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      31 mins ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: Introducing a seamless, stress-free, and eco-conscious chauffeur service in Dubai.
      Blacklane is a combined concept of stress-free and sustainable travel that allows fast-paced travellers to move through the city seamlessly – and save the planet one ride at a time. Currently operating in more than 50 countries globally, Blacklane is the leading chauffeur-hailing service offering a premium experience with sustainability in mind. Providing a comfortable ride experience, passengers can enjoy the journey with its ventilated seats, in-chair massage, and ambient cabin lighting, creating an oasis of calm – which is all a tap away.
      This month sees Blacklane’s first-of its-kind launch in the region of an all-electric fleet of customised, top-of-the-range Mercedes EQs, captained by impeccably dressed male and female chauffeurs that provide the highest standards of service, safety, etiquette, and discretion.
      “As part of our commitment to the environment, we are proud to offer an all-electric fleet, which will dramatically reduce carbon emissions […] a step forward towards a more sustainable future,” says Nicolas Soucailler, General Manager.

      The electric vehicle rollout bolsters Blacklane’s already impressive eco-credentials that align with the United Arab Emirates Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative and supports the UAE’s announcement to declare 2023 as the year of sustainability. One of out of the many service highlights of Blacklane includes transparent fixed pricing at the time of booking for short trips and inter-emirate journeys, with a 15-minute complimentary wait time. Guests have the option of booking rides on-demand or using the pre-booked option with a minimum wait time of 60-minutes. These updates are just the beginning and there is more to come.
      “We are strategically investing in the important Middle East market as a test bed to introduce new offerings which will diversify our business model and allow us to expand and open new markets,” says Dr Jens Wholtorf, Co-Founder and CEO of Blacklane.
      April’s – The Elevate Issue – Download Now 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Inspired by Couture, Rolls-Royce & Iris Van Herpen collaborate on a masterpiece

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      59 mins ago

      Automobile giant Rolls-Royce joins forces with innovative fashion designer and couturier Iris van Herpen to presents Phantom Syntopia—the most technically complex Bespoke Phantom ever produced.
      To push the boundaries of of innovation, craftsmanship and luxury, the two luxury houses have come together. “In collaborating with internationally renowned designer and Haute Couturière Iris van Herpen, we once again redraw the boundaries of innovation, craftsmanship and Bespoke possibility; not just for a motor car but across the wider luxury sector,” shares Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
      Designer Iris van Herpen will design a bespoke Haute Couture ensemble to complement the Phantom Syntopia.“For this special collaboration I was inspired by the concept of ‘Weaving Water’ and transformed the sense of being in movement into an immersive experience of fluidity inside the Phantom,” added the couturier.
      The name Phantom Syntopia is derived from Iris’ iconic 2018 collection, based on the principles of biomimicry, in which art is inspired by patterns and shapes found in nature. Similar to the collection, which features a number of sculpted garments brought to life through movement—Phantom Syntopia embodies the same fluidity through through its ‘Weaving Water’ theme.
      The interior features three-dimensional textile sculptures that captures the essence of flowing water. The one-of-a-kind ‘Weaving Water’ Starlight Headliner is the most complex in Rolls-Royce history, the artwork for which was exclusively hand-crafted by specialists at the Home of Rolls-Royce and Iris van Herpen’s Amsterdam atelier.
      The stunning shimmering exterior was developed with a one-off Liquid Noir paint which is iridescent in sunlight. It reveals purple, blue, magenta and gold undertones when viewed from different angles. To master this effect, the marque’s darkest solid-black paint is overlaid with a finish, incorporating a mirror-like pigment, selected for its colour-shifting properties.
      In an attempt to pay tribute to Rolls-Royce’s heritage, the Phantom Syntopia dives back into an era where the driver’s seat was trimmed in hardwearing leather and the rear compartment in luxurious, inviting fabrics. The front seats of Phantom Syntopia are finished in Magic Grey leather, distinguished by its lustrous finish.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Supplied  More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      7 app-based car services in Dubai for a smooth ride

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      32 seconds ago

      Tired of waiting in long queues for your next car ride? Dubai has all the right options for you.
      From premium cars to airport cabs, each app has a variety of options to choose from making travelling in the emirate an effortless task.
      After entering the destination and pickup point passengers can lay back and enjoy the hassle-free ride through any of these mobile apps. For utmost safety, each app includes 24/7 support, GPS tracking, and emergency assistance.
      So, for your next ride, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the car apps to download in Dubai for a seamless journey.
      Careem
      As a one-stop solution for all its users’ needs, this app has been operating in the country for over a decade. Without limiting to taxi services, the other options include delivery, recharging, transferring money, ordering food and shopping. To receive returns on every ride, customers can also subscribe to the rewards programme starting at Dhs19 per month.
      For more information visit careem.com
      Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC)
      In a smooth and innovative manner, customers can reserve taxis and limousines via the smart application. After registering on the app, passengers can select and reserve a vehicle, after which they search for the nearest one to the customer’s location. Payments can be made directly or through a credit card for a seamless process.
      For more information visit dubaitaxi.ae
      XXRide
      This global ridesharing and ride-hailing service allows customers to seamlessly book a ride after signing in within a few minutes. For an exception experience, the app also offers luxury car rides, making quality prices available at a lesser price. Without forgetting the little ones, the app offers baby car seats in the family category to ensure a safe and seamless ride for them.

      For more information visit xxride.com
      Uber
      While still operating independently across the Middle East, this ride-hailing American service was taken over by Careem in early 2020. As a premium airport car service, the app offers pickups and transportation with a click of a button. For any planned events, Uber has the option of requesting ride up to 30 days in advance at any time and on any day of the year.
      For more information visit uber.com
      WOW
      Dubai’s latest ride-sharing company, WOW Electronic Transport Services allows potential passengers to book rides and have luxury trips or even be a leader and drive with the app. Without limiting any onboarding customers, the app allows one to book a ride for family or friends with minimum effort. With stress-free rides, WOW ensures anyone can book a ride within minutes. To ensure women and children feel comfortable and safe, the app offers an exclusive premium journey for them at any given time of the day.
      For more information visit wowets.com
      BaronFleet
      This premium car booking platform is the GCC’s first on-demand premium service. From limousines to business class Mercedes options, customers can book via the app and opt for the cashless payment option. Whether an airport transfer or an hourly ride, professional chauffeurs ensure customers enjoy a comfortable luxury ride to their destination. With fixed rates, passengers can know the price estimate of their ride in advance.
      For more information visit baronfleet.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Emirates Woman shoot with Ferrari for March 2022 More

    • 113 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Rolls-Royce introduces a brand new private office in Dubai

      by

      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      25 seconds ago

      Rolls-Royce cars exude a high degree of sophistication like no other with endless personalisation options.
      However, the luxury automobile maker’s customisation options have remained only available at their Goodwood base in the UK, base, until now.
      Rolls-Royce has introduced its first international outpost, allowing for customisations, and it’s based right here in the UAE.
      A new Rolls-Royce private office has opened in Dubai, allowing clients to choose exact specifications and designs with an expert to produce the final outcome.

      Whether you’re thinking of highlighting a colour with sentimental value or showcasing a bespoke constellation on the roof, this luxurious feature brings any vision to life.
      Rolls-Royce’s CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos described the opening of the new Dubai private office as the next chapter in the history of the luxury automobile maker.
      “This is yet another step in the evolutions of the marque, rooting itself as a true house of luxury with effortlessly elevated design services that are on a par with our products,” he said.
      With over 44,000 ready-to-wear hues available, each customer can craft an individual ride that projects their vision, Rolls-Royce style.
      Through the brand’s coachbuilding programme, buyers are taken through a step-by-step process where they can go through the journey of seeing the motors being built entirely by hand.

      After establishing the success of this programme, Rolls-Royce plans to open more private offices in the near future.
      Customers can book appointments through local showrooms across the UAE at the private office or visit rolls-roycemotorcars.com
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Emirates Woman February cover shoot More