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Prioritise safety, environment automakers urged

Dubai, March 9, 2010

Automobile manufacturers were urged to keep safety and the environment as major priorities as they plan their recovery from the economic downturn at the opening of a major event for the commercial vehicle industry in Dubai.

Organised by Streamline Marketing Group, a Dubai-based event management and marketing specialist, Commercial Vehicles Middle East 2010, the regional showcase for vehicles, parts and services, opened today (March 9) at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre to run until March 11.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), also called on the leading commercial vehicle brands to prove that new models being launched today can be as reliable and long lasting as their predecessors.

“The good news today is that the commercial vehicles industry in the region has a new focal point in Dubai,” Sulayem said.

“It’s great to see so many big names supporting this event, supporting each other, making a stand, sending a message that they’re here to stay, and that better times are ahead,” he added.

“At the ATCUAE we’re concerned with vehicle safety, and with the effects on the environment from emissions. I hope to see that the new models on show this week reflect that the manufacturers are just as concerned as we are.”

At Sulayem’s suggestion, event organisers Streamline Marketing Group invited Sharjah Old Cars Club and Museum to put on a display of classic commercial vehicles dating back to the 1940s.

“They’re a reminder that commercial vehicles are part of the history of the UAE and the Middle East as a whole,” said Sulayem. “Some say they’re not made like this any more, that today’s vehicles don’t last as long.

“It’s up to the manufacturers to prove them wrong. I hope they do, and that years from now vehicles being launched this week will be part of another classic collection, at a much bigger event. This is just the start, but it’s a good one.”

Mustansir Lakdawala, managing director of Renault GCC said: “The commercial vehicles sector is becoming competitive as fleet managers, small and medium sized businesses and traders are looking for vehicles that offer more versatility, durability and value for money.”

The opening day of the event’s two-day conference, running alongside the exhibition, included sessions focusing on “Fleet and safety on the road” and “Managing the environmental impact of fleets.”

Both themes were of special significance for Sulayem and the ATCUAE which is the official representative in the Emirates of the FIA, the organisation representing motoring organisations worldwide and a long-time driver of initiatives on vehicle safety and environment protection. – TradeArabia News Service




Tags: Dubai | ATCUAE | Commercial vehicles | Middle East 2010 |

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