The Dubai International Motor Show (DIMS), the largest automotive event in the Middle East and North Africa, will provide a glimpse into the future of the automobile with a number of high-tech concepts from the world’s leading automakers incorporating game-changing cutting-edge technologies.

More than 100,000 visitors will experience the new auto world with concepts and innovations that will soon filter through to the showroom as well as some new models which feature the very latest in driver-assisted functions that will remove some of the more tedious driving tasks in the not too distant future. DIMS takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from November 10-14.

An independent report from Business Insider UK claims that by 2020, 75 per cent of cars sold globally will be Internet compatible. The connected car market is expected to grow 10 times faster than the overall car market with a five-year compound annual growth rate of 45 per cent.

“It’s an exciting time for the automotive industry as it moves further into the digital arena,” said Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice president, exhibitions and events management, Dubai World.

TRADE CENTRE

“Each of our participating exhibitors is offering something very unique. Some are bringing new infotainment systems, while others are enhancing their engine performance. We are committed to bringing the latest innovations from a host of manufacturers and brands under one roof, and our visitors will have the chance to see many of these new car technologies at the show.”

THE AUDI

With its lightweight, multi-material body and all-new chassis, the new Audi Q7 is the lightest car in its class. It can now offer the performance of Audi’s more sporting saloons while reducing its C02 footprint.

A powerful engine combined with adaptive suspension and its lightweight body makes the new Audi Q7 a dynamic car in the large SUV bracket. The 45 TFSI engine with 333 hp takes the new Audi Q7 from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and gives it a top speed of 250 km/h – figures that just a few years ago were confined to pure-bred sports cars, and yet the Q7 achieves this while consuming just 7.9 litres of fuel per 100 km.

The Q7 features a second-generation modular infotainment platform as well as Audi’s virtual cockpit as an option. The new MMI all-in-touch control unit with large touchpad and a tablet for rear seat passengers operates the B&O 3D sound system and is intuitive and simple to operate.

Another highlight is the extremely broad and graduated range of new driver assistance systems, which includes adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist and the cross-traffic assist in the rear.

THE BMW

The all-new BMW 7 Series combines state-of-the-art comfort with dynamic agility and styling. Offering advanced design and technology features, visitors to the show will be able to witness elements such as BMW’s futuristic Laser Light headlamp technology, which throws a high beam range of up to 600 m that’s double the length of regular LED headlamps. It also features a Welcome Light Carpet that illuminates the area in front of the car doors in white to create an elegantly hospitable impression. Once seated, occupants can then admire the night’s constellation through its star-gazer-inspired panorama glass “Sky Lounge” roof.

Inside, technology offers both the driver and passengers optimal levels of comfort and luxury. BMW’s ConnectedDrive driver assistance portal has been upgraded and now includes Touch Command for the rear seat passengers via a seven-inch tablet that gives passengers a new experience in controlling multiple in-car functions. Through Touch Command, rear passengers can control in-car infotainment and comfort features such as the new Vitality Programme which provides a luxurious in-seat massage option, as well as a unique Gesture Control function which allows for specified functions to be operated by hand movements.

FORD AND LINCOLN

Ford and Lincoln also plan to showcase some of the latest technologies emerging as part of their 2016 model range through their latest concepts making their regional debut at the Dubai Motor show. Ford’s EcoBoost technology serves as the main highlight around the company’s direction to offer high performance while delivering impressive fuel economy. Driver assist technologies such as MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch, Active Park Assist, Lane Keeping System and Lane Departure Warning continue offering drivers the confidence and safety they need. Ford Motor Company has led the democratisation of driver assist technologies, making high-end features that would be reserved for premium cars only, available on more mainstream models. Momentum will pick up through both the Ford and Lincoln lineups as the future of these brands and technologies are shown in the region, a Ford spokesman said.

Held every two years, the Dubai International Motor Show is the main highlight of the Dubai Motor Festival, which is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The Dubai Motor Festival is organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), and builds on the widespread passion of all motor-related sports across the region.

The 2015 Dubai International Motor Show is supported by Show partners ACDelco, Alienware, Autopro, Cooper Tires, Enoc, RTA and Swiss Tourism.