Tiida Ad

2005 1

EDITORIAL

MR. CARLOS GHOSNPRESIDENT & CEO, NISSAN MOTOR CO. LTD.

“There is an air of highly focused excitement at Nissan as we develop products that deliver innovation, interior quality and driving pleasure. But innovation is never confused with novelty. We focus on real-world challenges and concerns – with safety and the environment always front-of-mind. “At the same time, we look ahead for solutions no one has yet imagined.” P

HO

TO: M

INE

KO

OR

ISA

KU

MR. TORU HASEGAWA MANAGING DIRECTOR, NISSAN MIDDLE EAST FZE

I am pleased to be a part of SHIFT Magazine for the firsttime under my new post as Managing Director Nissan Middle East. My move to Dubai to head the operations is from PT Nissan Motor Indonesia where Nissan has gained top honors in customer satisfaction throughout various industry awards so I will feel right at home amid the leading way Nissan Middle East continues to impress on every level.After a record year of vehicle launches, the new Nissan Tiida has certainly rounded up the year on the highest of notes. Tiida has taken the market by storm and created one of the most talked about auto campaigns in recent years. SHIFT was among the first to take Tiida through its paces, provinghow automotive rules can be broken by creating a small car that has both spaciousness, comfort and the luxury of a full-size high-class sedan. The SHIFT_ magazine team also joined more than 200 media at the ever-exciting 39th Tokyo Motor Show to test drive more than 16 vehicles including the 350Z, Skyline Coupe, the US version of the Altima and the Infiniti M45.The Inside Nissan feature focus this edition is on Eiji Imai, Nissan’s senior vice-president in charge of corporate quality assurance who provides his insights into key engineering, safety and challenges faced by the manufacturer when adapting vehicles specifically for regional terrain and marketdemands. SHIFT_’s new travelogue section focuses on great destinations around the Gulf, with the team and Nissan Armada taking to the scenic roads of beautiful Oman to unveil the wonder of the drive-experience which shows it is not always about your destination but the journey.I look forward to also taking the journey with all as Nissan Middle East continues to strive ahead in 2006 and beyond.

CONTENTS

Issue 2V O L U M E 2Editorial BoardTakeshi NakajimaMonal ZeidanNibal SlimAdel FeidiSussan Fernandes

Editorial TeamMonal ZeidanAdel FeidiPankaj DevNeville Jal DarukhanawallaHania Tabet (TBWA/RAAD)Mirna Al-Qassim (TBWA/RAAD)

Design & ProductionAdCom Advertising

Editorial OfficeP.O. Box 61111, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAEe-mail: shift_mag@nissan-me.aeWebsite: www.nissan-me.com

Published forNissan Middle East FZE by Devshri Global Inv. Inc.Suite #215, 933 N. Kenmore Street,Arlington, VA 22201, USA

AdvertisingAdCom AdvertisingP.O. Box 34556, Dubai, UAETel.: +971-4-3522337Fax: +971-4-3595983E-mail: pankaj@adcomonline.com CopyrightLaw prohibits reproduction in whole or part of any matter, without prior written permission of the publisher.Copyright SHIFT_2005

Legal DisclaimerViews and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Nissan Middle East FZE and the publisher. We shall not be held liable in any manner.

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CONTENTS

NEWS

COVER STORYNISSAN THINKS BIG WITH THE TIIDA

FEATURETOKYO MOTOR SHOW NISSAN WOWS THE WORLD WITH GT-R PROTO

INTERVIEWNISSAN QUALITY IN TOP GEAR

FEATURENISSAN’S CASA DRIVE PARK

FEATUREALTIMA ACCOLADES

NISSAN TRAVELOGUEMOTORING HOLIDAY

TECHNOLOGYADVANCED CRASH LABORATORY

BEGINS OPERATIONS FOCUSOF DESIRES AND PASSION... MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE!

ME & MY NISSANRANIA SABEH & MURANO

1EDITORIAL

HSBC Ad

4

GHOSN RECIEVES TOP ATHENA AWARD

Carlos Ghosn, CEO of both Nissan and Renault received the prestigious Athena award in Tokyo in recognition for “contributing the most to the expansion of the auto industry and society’s robust development.” The award is only given every

two years by the Tokyo International Automotive Conference. The event is organized by Nikkei Business Publications, supported by Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) and The Wall Street Journal. The award is named after the Greek symbol for wisdom and Peace and Ghosn focused on this in his acceptance speech and the need for tolerance and inclusion in today’s socio-economic world.

“The award ceremony was followed by a lively question and answer session that covered hot topics such as oil economics, the environment and future growth of car markets around the globe, demonstrating Nissan’s vision towards all these issues,” noted Monal Zeidan, Corporate Communications Manager, Nissan Middle East.

Mr. Ghosn joined the company as its chief operating officer in June1999, became its president in June 2000 and was named chief executive officer in June 2001.

On April 29, 2005, Mr. Ghosn was named president and chief executive officer of Renault S.A. in addition to his current responsibilities at Nissan.As head of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Mr. Ghosn is responsible for two separate companies with combined annual global sales of 5.7 million vehicles.

NISMO WINS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE FOR THIRD

CONSECUTIVE YEAROver 35,000 spectators watched the Xanavi NISMO 350Z of Satoshi

Motoyama and Richard Lyons take second place in the climax of the 2005 Super GT series at Suzuka, to give NISMO the Team Series Championship for a third year in succession.

Heavy rain forced the race distance to be reduced from 52 to 39 laps and the two NISMO cars (No.1 and No.22) took advantage of a safety car period to make driver changes. Motoyama in No1 and Masataka Yanagida in No.22 handed over to Lyons and Michael Krumm respectively for the remaining laps, and although both cars dropped back as a result, by lap 21 they were up to 6th and 8th places.

There then followed a spell of further driver changes among the other teams during which the NISMO cars improved their positions so that by lap 24 they were in 4th and 6th places respectively. By lap 36, the Motoyama/Lyons car was up to 2nd. Lyons then started his fierce pursuit of theleading No.38 Supra and a possible third consecutive driver’s title. The gap between two cars fell from 6 seconds to just 0.8 seconds by the final lap,but the Supra was not going to allow anyone past and the race finished inthat order. The second Nissan, meanwhile, was suffering a 60 kg weight handicap and although up to 6th at one point, ultimately finished in 8th.

In spite of a heavy crash during qualifying, the Calsonic Impul Z (#12, Benoit Treluyer / Yuji Ide) managed to start the race from the back of the grid in the GT500 class. Treluyer drove the first stint and came very close tothe leading No.36 Supra. He then handed over to Yuji Ide, still recovering from the crash, the car returning in 10th place, and finishing in 9th at thechequered flag. The #3 G’ZOX Hasemi Z (Toshihiro Kaneishi /Erik Comas)started from 7th. The car was up to 4th on lap 6, pitted on lap 13 and Kaneishi took over for the remaining two-thirds of the race. He fought hard to finish 4th.

“I am so proud of Richard for his wonderful driving and the effort of the whole team which led the team to series champion,” said Hiroshi Degawa, NISMO Team Director. “I believe that our strategy of changing the drivers in the very beginning was successful. It was a gamble, but it worked. I am glad to end the season by showing that we challenge until the last minute of the race, and that all our fans got excited for being with us all the way in this heavy rain. We thank you very much for your support.”

“Richard made an amazing pursuit. I was so excited watching the track monitor screen,” said Satoshi Motoyama. “Although we missed the third consecutive driver’s title I’m still happy. At one point we all worried the rain was too hard for the race, but at the end of the day I’m glad we could show a very dramatic race to our enthusiastic fans.”

“It was a good race,” recalled Richard Lyons. “A bit disappointed really not winning the driver’s championship but we’re happy to win the team series title. I am very honoured to make a contribution to the team”.

NISSAN PATROL CHOSEN BY ALGERIA

IN LATEST FLEET DEALNissan’s flagship

Patrol has gained the seal of approval by Algeria’s Ministry of Interior as the best all-terrain vehicle to handle the country’s protection needs.

The first shipment of300 vehicles arrived to Algeria earlier this year for the contract awarded to

Nissan’s distributor Nissan Algerie S.A.R.L. The Algerian Ministry of Interior put a number of vehicles under rigorous testing in recent months to evaluate the power and handling against the tough driving and environmental conditions of the country.

The special Nissan Patrols have been customized under the colors of the Algerian Gendarmerie with Nissan committing to support the fleet withunmatchable after sales support, raising the bar of service excellence to new heights.

Takeshi Nakajima, Deputy Managing Director of Nissan Middle East said: “Weare proud that Nissan Patrols will play such a vital role in Algeria providing both on road and off road power, handling and resilience needed.”

2005 5

NEWS

Nissan has announced that it achieved its target of selling an additional one million vehicles in the 12 months to end-September, compared to the corresponding 2001 fiscal year.

Unit sales for the period totaled 3,671 million, against 2.597 million in 2001.

The figure marks the delivery of the final objective in Nissan’s ‘180’ business plan. Operating margin of eight per cent and zero automotive debt were accomplished two years ahead of schedule.

Gulf markets contributed significantly to the record-breaking sales. In the year to end-September, total GCC sales topped a record 100,000 units for the first time in 20 years.

The trend is accelerating, with 2005 year-on-year sales up 37.8 per cent in Saudi Arabia and 44.3 per cent for the rest of the GCC states. Figures for September 05 against September 04 were alone up by 28.5 per cent in Saudi and 38.6 in the rest of the GCC.

“Thanks to the hard work of all of Nissan’s employees, our revival is complete,” said Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO of Nissan. “We have regained the confidence and momentum needed to grow significantly and profitably over the long term.”

His comments were echoed by Takeshi Nakajima, deputy-managing director at Nissan Middle East, who highlighted Nissan’s bold expansion of its line up over the last 18 months with the launch of all new vehicles such as

The Saudi chapter of Superbrands (part of the UK Brand Council) has awarded Nissan “Superbrand Status” for 2005, an elite international rating that recognises exceptional brands in over 42 countries.

An independent Superbrands Council in each country scores candidates against internationally accepted standards, and the top brands are awarded Superbrand status. This is the fourth chapter that grants Nissan the award, after it received it in 2004 from UAE and Egypt and in 2005 from Morocco. This award comes at a time when Nissan celebrates globally the successful completion of its 180 plan.

Nissan’s recognition comes in the wake of a complete business transformation that has seen it move from near extinction to become one of the world’s most profitable auto makers. It was also noted that Nissan has enhanced its commitment towards communicating with its customers and public in the Gulf.

New models, new designs, and a fresh approach to service and customer care have combined to turn around Nissan fortunes – internationally and in the Gulf – prompting the latest Superbrand accolade.

Helping Nissan with its commitment to the Gulf market is Alhamrani United Company (AUC), the sole distributor of Nissan in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the largest dealer of Nissan in the Gulf and the Middle East

RESURGENT NISSAN COLLECTS 4TH ‘SUPERBRAND’ ACCOLADE

region, serving its customer with 35 branches and several authorized dealers kingdom wide. AUC has consistently achieved outstanding sales and service throughout its branches and has been a major contributor in helping Nissan expand its presence and popularity in the Kingdom, yet deserving to be among its superbrands.

“A Superbrand offers consumers significant emotional and/or physical advantages over its competitors which (consciously or subconsciously) consumers want, recognize, and are willing to pay a premium

for,” a Superbrands Council spokesman said. “Nissan has clearly demonstrated these attributes in full measure

regionally and internationally and that’s why it has now been designated as a Superbrand.”

Takeshi Nakajima, Deputy Managing Director of Nissan Middle East, said the recognition paid tribute to the efforts made in the past few years to build the brand in the Gulf with the expansion of its new line-up across the region.

“We are happy to get this recognition in Saudi Arabia which represents the biggest automotive market in the Gulf region. Our customers already see the difference for themselves and now this has been endorsed by an independent authority,” he commented. “It is further proof of Nissan’s dedication to delivering a total ownership experience in vehicles and after-sales care that belong in a class of their own.”

GCC SALES SOAR AS NISSAN DELIVERS ON 1 MILLION COMMITMENT

the 350Z, Altima, Armada, Murano and the introduction of the luxury Infiniti line-up starring the FX35 and the G35 sedan and coupe.

“Implementing the Nissan 180 plan covered a host of improvements in several key areas – in sales, marketing, and after sales – and I think the figures show how well everyone has responded,” he said.

“With an unparalleled range of outstanding vehicles, and first-class support from our dealer network, the Nissan brand has never been stronger in the Middle East. We can now look forward to building even further on our achievements.”

6

A new compact has joined the Nissan model rank - a car that is getting a lot of attention. Named ‘Tiida’, the car will be available in both hatchback and sedan versions in the Middle East – the second region after Japan to launch this new model.

BIG

NISSANTHINKS

TIIDAWITH THE

2005 7

COVER STORY

Introducing the Tiida into the Middle East market comes as a matter of great

importance for Nissan. Till date in the Middle East, Nissan did not

have any such offering in the compact

segment. Bu t

after years in the shadow of sport utility vehicles, this segment is getting more attention around the world, with the Middle East also turning its attention to it - largely thanks to consumer concerns about rising gas prices, plus increasing congestion on roads and a scarcity for parking spaces. The introduction of the Tiida is a timely one for Nissan, as more and more surveys around the world indicate that a considerable amount of owners of

SUV’s and large sedans are switching to smaller cars for daily commuting.

But what actually is so important about the Tiida is

that, it is here to continue in the family way of

the latest breed of cars that

Nissan has

in its offing - with a big part of its persona beingrelated to the Murano.

The idea to design and launch a car of this size was born, according to Shuji Matsumoto, the Chief Product Specialist (Tiida), out of two main focal points – fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Themain objective, he said, was for Nissan to take a conventional C-class car and make the most out of it, especially a roomy and comfortable cabin along with pleasing aesthetics. The ‘Tiida’ name also has a lot of significance to Nissan. It means ‘the sun’ inthe Okinawa dialect of Japanese.

Since the new Tiida has a global footprint, Nissan has made use of the successful Renault-Nissan alliance’s ‘B’ platform for the car, with priorities placed on interior roominess, high quality (both inside and outside) and a comfortable, stress-free environment. In creating the Tiida packaging,

8

the same except for boot space and the rear passenger seats. The rear seat of the hatchback can slide back and forth by 24cm to vary luggage space from 289 to 463 litres. In contrast, thanks to the big boot (467 litres); the sedan does not need a sliding rear seat.

The cabin of Tiida is by far the biggest in the class. From the throttle pedal to the rear seat the total length of the cabin is 2035 mm. This is something absolutely outstanding. It even matches the cabin space of the current Infiniti Q45. TheTiida’s back seat feels super-roomy. Passengers have enormous legroom and headroom matching or even surpassing cars a class above. The reference to the Q45 only serves to illustrate this fact even more strongly.

So how did the engineers manage to create such vastness in a size so miniscule? For starters, the Tiida’s engine and transmission are designed to be as slim as possible so that the engine compartment could be reduced, pushing the firewall forward. This frees up the front passengerspace, which in turn allows rear occupants a larger sitting area. At the back, the Tiida employs a slightly narrower rear seat, which is slotted between the rear wheels. This contributes to most of the additional space in the car. The rears seats in the hatchback recline upto 40 degrees

and can be conveniently folded in a 60:40 split to accommodate extra luggage as and when needed. Apart from space, the cabin is pretty well trimmed too. The plastics are soft-touch ones and most surfaces are covered with soft padding. The dashboard design emphasises living room ambience, using high-quality upholstery and trims combining synthetic leather and top-grade fabric.

“The Tiida design and engineering teams found a way to put a big interior in a small car,” said Takeshi Nakajima, Deputy managing Director at Nissan Middle East. “The interior length, front to back, is more than 1.77 metres long – equal to or larger than some full size luxury sedans.”

For the Middle East, the Tiida comes equipped with a newly developed 1.6-litre HR16 engine, developing 118 bhp at 6000 rpm and 167 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm The engine is mated to a four-speed automatic, with a five-speed manualgearbox available as an option. A bigger 1.8-litre engine will be available soon to further the appeal of this new car.

Being a totally new offering, the engineering team for the Tiida worked really hard getting all facets of this exciting new car absolutely spot on. So, the Tiida gets electronic power steering – a technological ‘first’ for Nissan and Tiida - replacingconventional hydraulics with an independent

the design and engineering teams found a clever way to put a big interior in a compact car.

The car features a 2.6 metre wheelbase with short front and rear overhangs. The signature Nissan grille identifies it with the rest of its brethren.The Tiida follows basic convention in the C-segment – that is to simultaneously portray its versatility in the form of a hatchback or a proper three-box sedan. Both the versions are basically

2005 9

motor-powered system. Together with independent MacPherson strut suspension up front and a multi-link beam axle in rear, superior aerodynamics (a wind-cheating drag co-efficiency of 0.29), ripple-control shock absorbers, and damper rebound springs, the Tiida delivers driving stability and ride comfort comparable to high-priced upper segment models. Thanks to the electronic power steering, the feel on the wheel is light yet intuitive making it extremely easy to manoeuvre in city traffic. Duringour drive in Lebanon at its Middle East preview, the car felt well planted on the road, even at above average speeds.

On the safety aspect too, Nissan engineers have squeezed every available feature in their armoury that could be fitted into the Tiida. Itfeatures a zone body construction with front and rear crumple zones. Twin SRS airbags are employed for the driver and front passenger, which along with front seat Active Head Restraints help minimising injuries in the event of a collision.

Tiida is now being produced for North America in Mexico a well as China, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, South Africa and India, but in every market, Tiida’s size is the story, offering an exceptionally efficientpackage on a compact footprint.

The compact car segment is now the fastest-growing sector in the GCC automobile market,

topping 128,000 unit sales last year – a whooping 40 per cent of total passenger car sales! But current hatchbacks account for only eight per cent of the small car segment – obviously with the Tiida, the prospects for Nissan to further increase its volumes in the region have been greatly enhanced.

Just following existing market trends should see the Tiida hatchback establishing a dominant position. The team at Nissan Middle East are confident they have a winner on their hands, as theTiida starts with a clear lead over rivals in terms of spaciousness, comfort, style and value for money.

“The Tiida is the most exciting small car product to reach Middle East markets,” states Nakajima San. “Tiida’s quality will be among the top of its class. Its smart, stylish interior design and use of premium materials will surely help distance it from the competition. The hatchback alone is set to transform the small car segment, where growth has been limited by the restricted choice and the absence of any Japanese offerings.”

“Now we have a new entrant backed by the Nissan brand and the Nissan reputation, bringing unprecedented zest, inspiration, and stimulus to a market that is virtually untouched. The potential here is clearly enormous and our goal is for Tiida to be number one in the small car segment by the end of 2006.”

The sun is rising, but in a different manner. The Tiida aims to transform consumer wants in a package that is oh so Japanese blended with all the attributes of a global product. Its clever use of space – big on the inside and small outside – and ingenious styling mark this sub-compact as the one for others to emulate.

The bar has been raised in the C-segment and it’s Nissan that’s leading the way.PANKAJ DEV

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To fully understand the near hysteria surrounding the unveiling of this model, one had to be there at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba Prefecture. Photographers jostled with one another for the best vantage points and the stage was a constant burst of flash bulbs going off asthe curtain parted to reveal what promises to be a most exciting car from Nissan. For a car with a lineage that makes grown up men go weak at the knees, there could only be one man who had to unveil this modern day gladiator for the road and track – Carlos Ghosn, Nissan’s CEO was the man and going by the gasps and astonishment that pervaded the atmosphere at the Nissan stand, the top brass of the company were suitably impressed by the collective nod of approval from the world’s media of a job well done. But like said earlier, it is still early days yet and as much as Nissan would like to get this model into production in fast and furious fashion, the GT-R Proto will yet undergo a few more years of development before taking its bow in 2007. But what was shown at the Makuhari is an indication of the final design direction for the production model.The 2007 Nissan GT-R will be the first in eightyears and will be sold globally including the Middle

The 2005 Tokyo Motor Show saw Nissan present eight show cars that incorporate ideas for new models to come. And undoubtedly the star of the 39th Tokyo Motor Show was the spankingly new Nissan GT-R Proto. Slated for production in a couple of year’s time, the GT-R Proto forms the basis for the next gen Skyline GT-R.

TOKYO MOTOR SHOW

NISSAN WOWS THE WORLDGT-R PROTOWITH

East market. The company first unveiled the GT-RConcept at the 35th Tokyo Motor Show in 2001 and more recently at the 37th Tokyo Motor Show in 2003. The design of the GT-R PROTO expresses pure GT-R heritage, coming from the first modelPGC10 (1969) through R34 (1999), in a new and expressive form.

The second concept that Nissan showcased at the Motorshow examines the potential of future electric vehicles. Named “Pivo”, the most distinctive feature is its cabin that revolves through 360 degrees, eliminating the need to reverse. Excellent visibility is enhanced by Nissan’s Around View technology, which helps reduce dangerous blind spots. Pivo promises to turn dreams into reality.

Sports apparel and footwear manufacturer, Adidas, has inspired Nissan’s Note. The interior fabrics and rubber materials that are familiar components of sportswear and related products were applied to the dashboard, door panels and other locations to create a remix image. The fourth concept, Foria, on the other hand is a compact 2+2 coupe concept targeted mainly at customers looking for performance, elegance and high quality.

Under the MPV category, Nissan showcased the Amenio - a six-passenger, multi-purpose people carrier that takes Nissan’s Modern Living concept to a new level. The Amenio is targeted at users who need a vehicle for their own individual requirements but also place a high priority on flexibility. The sixth concept to appear under theNissan stable was the Moco Preview - a concept car with convenience as a top priority. This car has plenty of handy storage nooks and seats that quickly and ingeniously lift up to reveal hidden storage compartments.

The Bluebird Sylphy Preview, a luxury medium-sized saloon, like the Amenio, embodies Nissan’s ‘Modern Living Concept’ with functionality all wrapped in a straight and refined exterior, whereasthe Wingroad Preview – the eighth concept car at the show opens up new possibilities for active people with a spirit of adventure. Sports enthusiasts will love its stylish versatility, which includes a highly flexible seat arrangement. The Wingroad Previewis scheduled to make its debut as a production car in Japan later this year.

NEVILLE DARUKHANAWALLA

2005 11

FEATURE

12

NISSAN QUALITYIN TOP GEAR

“Quality is never an accident. It is the result of a concerted effort!” If ever there was a statement highlighting the importance of quality in today’s world of high technology and advanced products, then it has to be the above.

No manufacturer ever looks at quality based issues with blinkers on and Nissan is no different. In today’s competition-strewn world, quality is one of the most integral factors a car manufacturer imbeds into its products – for without quality, even the best designed and most technologically advanced cars will not make the cut with consumers.

For a resurgent manufacturer like Nissan, quality takes on a serious hue as the company brings forth new models in its bid to drive ahead in the automotive field.

To find out where quality stands in the wide gamut of Nissan’s fastgrowing plans, SHIFT_ spoke to Eiji Imai, Senior Vice President of Quality Assurance at Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., on what drives Nissan forward on quality issues. Imai San was absolutely forthright in saying that Nissan has no choice but to implement best practices in its various activities if the company really wants to be successful. “There is no short cut to the top,” he says.

Excerpts from the interview!

2005 13

INTERVIEW

Quality is a multi-faceted term. What is Nissan doing to raise the bar when it comes to standard quality options in a car? Do you invest in quality assurance?

Perceived quality is very important for us. Since the alliance, we took Renault’s expertise in quality assurance and it has helped tremendously.

Our quality assurance validates all vehicles leaving the assembly line so that the quality checks remain in place right until the product is finishedand ready to leave. And it does not end there. At the dealer’s end, once again the products are subjected to strenuous PDI (pre delivery inspection) and only if the service personnel are satisfied thenthe car is delivered to our customer.

With our range of exciting vehicles, we can only challenge ourselves to keep on doing better with continuous evolution of our quality practices and systems.

Nissan, in recent times, has driven forward thanks to its vibrant and modern design. Where does quality fitin this new design philosophy?

Quality is one of the most important parameters in the Nissan Value Up plan, and it starts right from conceptualizing a car through to the time it gets to the showrooms. For example, at the time of designing the passenger cabin of a car, the details of what material will be used as the top surface are also considered. Ultimately it is the top surface that will come in contact with the passengers as it is the touch, feel and look that forms positive impressions about any product. No matter how good the design may have been, if the contact surface does not feel good, the passenger it unlikely to appreciate it. Similar care is taken in all stages of development.

Tell us about quality assurance at Nissan.The ‘Nissan QA Way’ (NQAW) was created

two years ago and it has made a big improvement to newly launched vehicles in terms of initial quality. The NQAW is informed by the following best practices:• Quality target setting/milestone review • Quick feedback • High level of integration and trade • Balance between design robustness and

manufacturing process capability • Standardisation and recurrence prevention • Continuous improvement and innovative

breakthrough Nissan organises special taskforces to check

field quality so that the company can quickly reactto new vehicle customer complaints. There are thus significantly fewer complaints and warrantyclaims from customers for these new vehicles compared with vehicles in the past.

We have also introduced the ‘Nissan Production Way’ (NPW), which is mainly characterised by a synchronised production system called ‘douki-seisan’. With this system, vehicles are built to customer order with suppliers

producing parts on a simultaneous schedule with the vehicle, reducing the need for inventory. One of the main objectives of NPW is to ensure high production quality through an efficient productionprocess from suppliers to the Nissan plant.’

Does the quality department work closely with the design and marketing departments when a new model is developed?

Certainly! We are responsible for ensuring overall quality that includes what we call NPQP or Nissan Production Quality Policy. This empowers us to have the best levels of product quality incorporating common quality standards taking into account requirements of different markets.

Integration and the trade-off between parts and practices is a juggling act and a constant struggle as we strive to give the best possible quality in our products. We have managed to strike a good balance between design and manufacturing.

Japanese quality is renowned worldwide. But with the global expansion and the opening of manufacturing and service facilities in different countries and regions, there is bound to be some discrepancies. How do you ensure that Nissan quality standards are upheld uniformly throughout different markets?

We have, based upon our experience and cumulative learning globally, developed extensive quality manuals that define and measure theNissan standards. These benchmarks have to be followed worldwide to the same specifications thusensuring uniformity.

Unlike other international markets that have neutral agencies like JD Power providing uniform benchmarking and analysis of product quality, the Middle East region lacks such organizations. On what basis does Nissan set its quality benchmarks for this region?

Nissan’s quality policy works on two platforms. Firstly, we have set ourselves globally applicable benchmarks, and secondly, we consider customer expectations in different parts of the world and set targets to surpass them. Nissan has set itself the target of leading the market segment according to customer expectations. In the Middle East, various workshops and market clinics are held on an ongoing regular basis to gauge customer expectations and the performance of Nissan vehicles vis-a-vis our competition.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

The most difficult part is to predict the resultsof quality enhancement program that has been undertaken on a vehicle. Quality perception is very difficult to apply uniformly. Your opinion aboutquality may be different than mine. Secondly, I am a member of Nissan ‘No Go’ committee. It is a difficult situation when a product introduction hasto be delayed after long months of development and quality tests. But then we are looking at things under the microscope when it comes to finalapprovals, and want Nissan vehicles to be perfect before they are introduced in the markets and therefore sometimes need to bite the bullet and pause things until they are perfected.

So do you have more enemies then friends at Nissan?

(Laughs) I have both. But at the end of the day, we are all friends.

Do people fear you or respect you?Ultimately they respect me.

NEVILLE DARUKHANAWALLA & PANKAJ DEV

Our teams of field officers continuously providefeedback from various parts of the world about Nissan products. These are carefully studied, analyzed and implemented to continuously improve the standards based upon global common quality assurance and subsequently all new products are extensively tested to meet stringent quality benchmarks. All these improvements are based upon the principle of Kaizen. Upon satisfactory completion of all tests, the results are then presented to a high level committee for finalapprovals before a product can be launched. This committee has the authority to refuse or delay the launch of a new product if not satisfied with thetesting results.

14

FEATURE

Nissan Morocco has devised a novel way to highlight its products. Dedicated to 4x4 SUVs in its stable, Nissan Morocco has set up a virtual showroom on more than 11 hectares of land to ably demonstrate the off-road capabilities of Nissan 4x4s. Known as ‘Casa Drive Park’, this was an open air event situated on the Casablanca Corniche, offering a unique demonstration and opportunity to visitors to test Nissan vehicles in extreme conditions, close to those which one meets in the desert. The site at the Corniche was especially prepared to this effect and is perfectly fits in with the overall ambience of the place.

As its name suggests, this event took place on a large ground intended for dynamic tests. It is a known fact that a great part of the 4x4 clientele does not really exploit all capacities of these cross-country vehicles. The majority uses it to drive downtown (school runs or supermarket sojourns) or to travel on asphalt, which is fine all thingsconsidered...

However, it is rather sad that many people cannot see what a 4x4 is able to do. It is thus this potential and these crossing capacities, pertaining to these vehicles that Nissan Morocco tried to uncover to their customers and others. And all that, right in their back yard too…

Nissan Morocco, through this innovative approach, has conveyed the forward thinking ethos of the company of projecting its image in a different manner. The qualities of the products and in particular the potential of the 4x4 range garnered immense interest among customers who also got an opportunity to test drive the vehicles.

Mohamed El Iraki, sales manager of Nissan

Morocco explained: “We contacted a whole team of professionals to conduct this event. It is clear that 4x4’s sometimes traverse rather significantobstacles which explain the need to have some basic skills and control as regards to driving and safety.”

The ‘Casa Drive Park’ had several areas of presentation, dedicated respectively to 4x4’s, pick-ups, as well as private cars particularly the Micra, over an area larger than 2500 sq. metres. It is also a point to have these vehicles exhibited in an original situation

For the tests, a track was designed allowing visitors to discover all the manoeuvres that could be carried out by a cross-country vehicle: going across narrow gullies, driving in deep ruts with cambers and crossing a fjord. Of course, with the Sahara Desert forming an integral part of Morocco, there was lots of sand to replicate the rigours of desert driving.

In many ways, the ‘Casa Drive Park’ was a large merry-go-round for adults. For the younger set, other demonstrations were planned in order to initiate them to driving and road safety measures. This is not to say that families were ignored. Nissan Morocco set up an area known as ‘Nomad Spirit’, where one was able to enjoy a glass of tea all the while taking pleasure in the sounds of the desert.

This was a novel initiative to attract customers to the brand. Certain models were offered with large discounts and visitors made good bargains during the Drive Park.

The ‘Casa Drive Park by Nissan’ proved to be a great hit with Moroccans and in more ways than one gave customers the sensations of pleasure that Nissan vehicles provide, giving them the desire to discover the splendid landscapes of this beautiful Western Saharan country.

NEVILLE DARUKHANAWALLA

NISSAN’S CASA DRIVE PARK

2005 15

FEATURE

Ever since its launch in 2002 in the United States of America and subsequent introduction last year in the Middle East, the Altima has been powering Nissan’s goal of once again reaching the top echelons of automotive integrity. In fact, the Altima, now in its third generation, has quickly become Nissan’s best selling vehicle.

And this is not just quantified by the unit numbers sold but also by the fact that it has endeared itself to the motoring media and public alike with its total VFM (Value for Money) package and inherently strong engine and chassis, not to forget its svelte lines and confident interior.

Since its launch, the Altima has been the recipient of many awards, some of which are mentioned below, which goes to show not only the strong qualities of the model but in many ways reflects the direction Nissan is going ahead with – strong design base, fantastic engineering (as can be seen with the multiple award winning engine), improved interiors, that all put together bring more smiles on consumer’s faces.

ALTIMA ACCOLADES

2002

1. “North American Car of the Year”

2. “Canadian “Car of the Year Award”/ “Best New Design”The Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC)

3. “Best of the Year”MotorWeek Driver’s Choice Awards

4. “Best New Car” and “Best In Class”Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine

2003

1. “#1 Overall Most Requested New Vehicle”Autobytel Consumer Choice Awards

2. “One of the 10 Best Engines of 2003”Ward’s AutoWorld

2004

1. Wheels & Gears (Best Mid Size Sedan)

ALTIMAACCOLADES

16

Oman is a land of diverse topography with a civilisation dating back to at least 5000 years ago. Situated on the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula, the Sultanate of Oman encompasses a total land area of 309,500 square kilometres, making it the third largest country in the peninsula. With a coastline encompassing 170 km from the Strait of Hormuz in the north to the borders of the Republic of Yemen in the south and overlooking three seas: the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, Oman has a prominent sea-faring tradition.

Thus, it was a natural choice for us to base our first motoring holiday (given the time available) on the historic sea-faring town of Sur.

Oman is a pot pouri of stunning and unspoilt landscapes, rich marine life, an ancient culture and most importantly, genuinely hospitable people. The terrain is very diverse – from rugged mountains and rocky deepwater fjords in the North, to the spectacular dunes of Sharqiyah (Wahiba) Sands and two large salt flats in the centre, to the lush

green hills of Dhofar region in the South, with rugged coasts and placid beaches.

The northern coastal strip along the Gulf of Oman is known as the Batinah Coast; a narrow fertile plain separated from the rest of the country by the Hajar Mountains. The highest peak is Jabal Shams (Sun Mountain) at 3,075 m. The southern slopes of the range are notable for their oasis towns where date groves flourish in the dry desert air.

In the south lies the second mountain range in Oman; the Qara Mountains, which attracts the light monsoon rains during the mid-summer months, turning them green with vegetation whose roots help delay the effects of erosion resulting in a soft rolling landscape more akin to central Africa.

As in the north, a narrow fertile coast plain lies between the mountains and the sea at whose centre Salalah lies, surrounded by lush vegetable farms and coconut groves.

The country is divided into eight administrative regions: 3 Governorates: Muscat, Dhofar and Mussandam and 5 regions - Al Batinah, Al

Dhahirah, Al Dakhliyah, Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta. Our destination lies in the Al Sharqiyah regions which is southeast of capital Muscat. Each of these is subdivided into smaller districts called Wilayat, which are governed by the Wali, the person responsible for administrating the area and reports to the Minister of the Interior.

There are two routes to Sur from Muscat – one a proper highway with four lane motorway that winds its way through scenic mountain ranges with twisty roads that are absolutely a joy to drive on. And then there is the coastal route, which though shorter, takes much longer as the road network is not completely developed (although work is on at a frenetic pace) and one has to take in broken or graded roads. It was the second route that we took onwards to Sur as the landscape is truly astonishing and nearly half the distance sees one going through gravelly wadis with the mountains on one side and the sea on the other.

ROUTE: Muscat-Sur - MuscatMuscat - Amerat – Quriyat - Jabel Bani Jabir -

MOTORING HOLIDAY

With wanderlust in our hearts, a Nissan Armada for the drive, and a Nikon loaded for the shoot, we head off to beautiful Oman for the first SHIFT_ travelogue.

2005 17

NISSAN TRAVELOGUE

Wadi Shab – Tiwi - Qalhat - Bibi Maryam’s Tomb – LNG Plant – Sur – Ayeja - Al Kamil – Ibra – Wahiba Sands – Wadi Bani Khalid - Muscat

DURATION: 2 DaysTOTAL ROUTE DISTANCE: 670.6 kmDETAILED ITINERARYDAY 1: Muscat -SurDISTANCE TO TRAVEL: 227.9 km (approx.)TIME OF DEPARTURE: Muscat (3.15 pm)TIME OF ARRIVAL: Sur (8.30 pm)Special Instruction: Please pack some fruits

and water for the day’s drive.ACCOMODATION:Bahwan Engineering Company, Sur, Rotational

Staff AccommodationHOTELS IN SUR:1. Sur Plaza2. Nizwa Hotel3. Sur Beach HotelGETTING THERE -HIT THE ROAD: Its 3.15 in the afternoon. We

leave the Muscat’s Grand Hyatt and slip behind the

wheel and head for Amerat, passing the grand new Nissan showroom – the largest in the world! We top up the cavernous Armada with fuel at the Wadi Adai Shell Select gas station and head towards Amerat. Ten kilometres through Amerat, we take the left exit towards Quriyat. The route snakes its way through the huge Western Hajjar Mountains. The range is like sentinels standing guard and a sight to behold with its volcanic rocks. It is said that the sea bed came up during the evolution of the earth and the mountains are a beautiful reminder of the wonders of mother earth. With Oman FM 90.4 blazing away on the excellent radio tuner, the Armada is eating up the kilometres as we cross into Quriyat Wilayat through the Hajjar. The roads are beautiful, traffic is sparse and we reach Quriyatin just under two hours.

Quriyat is a sleepy little coastal town and when we reached there was no sign of life as since it was afternoon, most residents were resting. Passing through town, the road leads out onto the beach and the rows of fishing vessels was a reminder of

the main vocation of this place. In fact, at one time Quriyat was a thriving fishing community but recenttimes have seen commercial date palm farming fast gaining prominence here.

After circumnavigating Quriyat and driving along the coast we have done 108.9km. Heading out, one comes to a roundabout where we turn left towards Sur, a further 119km away. After about six klicks, there is a fork in the road with the left showing the road to Tiwi and the right showing the road to Sur being under construction. Since Tiwi is on the way, we take the left and end up in yet another fishing hamlet called Dibab where the trailends. We retrace our steps back to the fork and take the other road.

This is the beginning of the graded road that takes in wadis, mountain passes and panoramic coastal tracks. It is an ethereal feeling as the sun starts dipping into the sea and the whole atmosphere begins to change, an orange glow glistening on the waters of the Indian Ocean.

The Armada is on song and the mood in the car

18

is one of sheer delight as we marvel at the natural beauty around us. The Armada is packed with a full complement of passengers – there are seven of us and travelling in total comfort. With daylight fast receding, we push on passing through Qalhat, famous for its dry cisterns and soon come across Bibi Maryam’s tomb (see Places of Interest).

Coming from the coastal road, the first thingone sees before entering Sur is the enormous LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) plant. Our destination wasthe Bahwan Engineering Company’s Rotational Staff Accommodation, just a few km from the LNG plant.

Places of Interest Along the WayBimmah SinkholeThis is just six km after Dibab village, about

500m from the road, but access is denied as a new coastal road is being constructed and hence the area is fenced.

TiwiThe White Sand Beach at Tiwi is also a calming

place for a relaxing break. The snorkelling here is quite famous.

Wadi ShabThe Wadi is 76 Km from Qurayyat–Muscat.

The road to the wadi dips as it crosses the bed of the ravine and rises steeply on the other side where the houses of Tiwi cling to the cliffs. At the mouth of the wadi is a single beach dotted with fishing boats.

Water flows all year round. The wadi runsthrough a narrow gorge with date plantations,

restful pools and lush vegetation. Oleander bushes attract butterflies and the singing of the birds isdelightful.

QalhatLocated in A’Sharqiyah, Qalhat is one of the

oldest towns and seaports in Oman. The original town stood on a cliff overlooking the sea, but today only remnants of the city walls remain. In the 13th century, it was the main port of trade with the interior and was famous for its export of horses to, and import of spices from India. In the 14th century, the town was destroyed by a major earthquake.

When the Portuguese occupied the area in the early 16th century, they made the town their southernmost stronghold until they were evicted towards the end of the century. The town soon declined to become an outpost of Sur.

The tomb of the holy lady, Bibi Maryam, stands high upon the cliff top. Now crumbling, it was once a splendid edifice, its domed interior covered inglazed colourful tiles.

Some Facts about SurThe main city and administrative centre of

A’Sharqiyah Region. It is an ancient port and seafaring town that lies on the east coast 310 Km from Muscat. Portuguese, who ruled the Gulf in the 16th century, occupied Sur until it was recaptured by Nasser ibn Murshid, first Imam of Al-Ya’aribahdynasty, in the 17th century.

The name of Sur is thought to be derived from the city of Sur in south Lebanon (Tyre). Sur played a major part in the trade between Oman, East

Africa, and India. A variety of goods were imported and exported through its port. It was one of the renowned centres for shipbuilding in the country, with great ocean going, high-sterned baghala and ghanja ships in continuous production. The division between Oman and Zanzibar in 1861, and the arrival of the British India Steam Navigation Company which operated between India and the Gulf, had a deleterious effect on the trading activities of the port, which thus affected the shipbuilding industry. Seven boatyards are now operated by the private sector, and craftsmen still use the traditional methods of shipbuilding to create ocean-going vessels. However, the tall ships are no longer made.

The Sur Maritime Museum charts the history of shipbuilding in the town. With its strong seafaring connections, it is hardly surprising that the legendary sailor, Sinbad, is thought to have originated there. A replica of the type of boat Sinbad sailed is situated in the Al-Bustan roundabout in Muscat.

The characteristics of the beaches differ however from one area to another: some are rocky and shingled; others are of clean, white sand such as Khaluf (Al-Wusta) and Al-Ashkharah; the jewel of the eastern Sharqiyah. Some beaches have a landscape scattered with rocks of spectacular forms and colours shaped by erosion as in Ra’as Duqm (Al-Wusta) and Ra’as Al-Hadd (A’Sharqiyah).

DAY 2: Sur - MuscatROUTE FOR THE DAY: Sur – Al Kamil – Ibra

– Wahiba Sands – Wadi Bani Khalid – Muscat (Via

2005 19

Route 23)DISTANCE TO TRAVEL: 342.7 KmTIME OF DEPARTURE: Sur (10.00 a.m.)TIME OF ARRIVAL: Muscat (5.00 p.m.)Special Instruction: Please pack some dry lunch

for the day’s drive as we are taking a few diversions along the route back to Muscat.

GETTING THERE -HIT THE ROAD: Before we hit the road again, we

undertook an early morning drive. Got up at 5.00 a.m. and went to Sur Beach to watch the morning’s catch come in. It was a picture perfect setting with the morning sun framing the numerous fishingdhows laying in wait like enormous factories, with smaller boats flashing across the bay filled to thebrim bringing the catch onto shore.

The merchants were haggling over prices and the scene was one of joisting over the best fishes.Shark, Sahwa, Mek, Swordfish and Tuna were ondisplay and were disappearing into cold storage trucks ready to deliver fresh fish to Muscat andother places. It was quite a sight watching the process of buying and selling go on and it seemed

as though all the men from the village had gathered here.

From the beach, we went on to see one of the main industries of this place – Boat Building. Although Sur no longer produces vessels in the quantities it once used to, the traditional craft still flourishes and we were quite fortunate to see twovery historic vessels in the making. First off, there was a massive royal dhow being constructed for His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. It was a fascinating opportunity watching craftsmen build these massive wooden boats without technical drawings or modern tools, using skills passed down from generation to generation. Then we saw the 3rd Millennium BC reed vessel being made. Similar vessels were used centuries ago to traverse the vast emptiness of the ocean for trade with ancient India. This vessel was being constructed to re-enact the sailing prowess of the ancient Omanis but sadly this vessel sank just seven kilometres into its journey to the Western Indian port of Dwarka in Gujarat in September this year. Weighing seven tonnes, this boat was made entirely true to its

original with construction of reed, tar and wood.Back to base to pick up the rest of the gang

and we were off to Muscat. On the way we took a little diversion to Wadi Bani Khalid. Traversing superb winding roads, this excursion was well worth it, with its overflowing greenery and quaintfalaj (narrow canals) water distribution system. It was quite a relaxing break too and a much needed one at that.

But as all good things have to end, so did our time here and soon it was back in the Armada, which had not missed a beat and kept plugging on as though it was just another day in the office. Backon the highway and with differing tones emanating from the sleeping passengers, the Armada was making good time to Muscat, surprising many a fellow road user with its speed and agility.

Next Time…We leave you now in Muscat to enjoy

yourselves with some more Omani hospitality. The next issue sees us in Lebanon to bring you another fascinating experience. Till then, drive safely.NEVILLE DARUKHANAWALLA

20

Nissan Motor Co Ltd announced in August that it has begun operations at its newly constructed Nissan Advanced Crash Laboratory (NACL) located at the company’s Oppama Proving Ground in Yokosuka City, 50 km southwest of Tokyo. The 40,000 square metre, state-of-the-art laboratory will be used for testing safety performance in vehicle-to-vehicle crashes and occupant protection performance in rollover accidents.

“We are very excited to have opened our second crash test facility in Japan,” said Kimiyasu Nakamura, senior vice president at Nissan. “Nissan Advanced Crash Laboratory will go a long way

to support the development of improved safety systems for Nissan’s vehicles under our Safety Shield approach.”

Safety Shield encompasses Nissan’s safety-related technologies that address both accident prevention and management. Under this approach, which was introduced in fiscal year 2004, Nissanbelieves that the driver is key to improved safety when it comes to helping to prevent an accident from occurring. Nissan’s focus is on how the company can best support the driver with technology that helps him or her avoid an accident or minimises damage in case of a crash.

Nissan’s other crash test facility is located at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Kanagawa

BEGINS OPERATIONSand is used for conducting vehicle tests using rigid or movable barriers.

At NACL, tests designed to reproduce vehicle-to-vehicle crashes can be conducted over a wide range of collision angles from 85 to 185 degrees in 5-degree increments, in addition to frontal collisions at 180 degrees and side collisions at 90 degrees.

Oblique-angle crashes between vehicles travelling in the same direction can also be reproduced at seven different collision angles of 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 degrees.

At NACL, Nissan can also evaluate occupant protection performance in four types of rollover crash modes through a dolly rollover test (1) (see

ADVANCED CRASH LABORATORY

2005 21

TECHNOLOGY

key below), a trip-over test (2), a ditch rollover test (3) and a corkscrew test (4). The tests were developed by Nissan based on real-world accident analysis.

Long-term commitments to safetyNissan has previously adopted technologies

to help achieve better compatibility (5) such as its unique high-strength Zone Body (6) construction. The latest version has been used on Nissan’s models since 2002 with the release of the present generation of the March compact car.

Nissan has set a goal of halving the number of traffic fatalities or serious injuries involving Nissanvehicles in Japan by 2015 compared with 1995. As of 2003, Nissan had reduced the number of

fatal and serious injuries by 22 per cent compared with 1995, indicating that steady progress is being made toward the attainment of its goal.

Key1. Dolly rollover test: Simulates a rollover kerb

impact crash with the vehicle in a fixed position ona dolly.

2. Trip-over test: This test simulates an accident where a vehicle spins and slips sideways until it comes in contact with a kerb or some other formation that causes it to roll over.

3. Ditch rollover test: This test simulates an accident where a vehicle leaves the road, travels down a sloped embankment at an oblique angle and rolls over.

4. Corkscrew test: This test simulates an accident where the wheels on one side run up on the centre divider or some other structure, causing the vehicle to tip and roll over.

5. Compatibility: This refers to helping to improve the protection of the vehicle’s occupant while reducing damage toward the occupants of the other vehicle.

6. Zone Body: The name of the high-strength body construction that Nissan has introduced since 1997. It combines a high-strength cabin (occupant zone) with impact-absorbing body structures (crushable zones) to help protect the vehicle’s occupants.

22

The above phrase would aptly suit H.E. Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nayhan, who through sheer perseverance plus a huge love for all things automotive has established the first museumdevoted to automobiles in the UAE. Surely he is in a league extraordinaire as his quite simply amazingly styled museum proves – of course, along with his fleet of extraordinary machines that he uses on aneveryday basis.

Not always conforming to norm - Sheikh Hamad is famous for his multi-coloured wedding car, gaining him the sobriquet ‘Rainbow Sheikh’ - which by the way, he dislikes. Sheikh Hamad’s museum is as extravagantly styled as are the cars inside; it’s built in the shape of a huge pyramid that stands out like a beacon in the vast emptiness of the desert surrounding it. In many ways it is surreal to see this huge modern pyramid but what are not at all unreal is the man himself and his passion for cars…and in particular, one make and model which the great man uses on an regular basis, especially when he is out traversing the great unknown.

As any intrepid adventurer taking the offbeat path would agree, equipment plays a big role if

one is to be successful in his/her endeavours. In Sheikh Hamad’s case, the most important piece of equipment he uses while traversing the desert – whether here in the Abu Dhabi or in Saudi Arabia (where he has a home) or Morocco – is the rugged Nissan Patrol. Although he has almost all types of 4x4 vehicles in his garage (a very big one at that), it is the Patrol that is his favourite and most preferred mount for desert driving.

His winter palace, about 70 odd kilometres from Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, has a huge backyard which is an ideal testing ground for off-

road vehicles. There are the huge Sarami Dunes, well over 60 metres high and numerous others that well and truly test the mettle of the strong and robust, reliable and powerful SUVs. A fantastic driver himself, Sheikh Hamad says that when he is behind the wheel of his Nissan Patrol, even the most daunting terrain seems easy. “There is a reason why I say this,” the man explains. “Whilst other manufacturers have chopped and changed their off-road vehicles to give them a more road biased persona, the Patrol remains true to its original identity and that is of being a true-blue off-roading machine. This is not to say that it is inferior on the road. Far from it, Nissan have done a very good job in keeping the intrinsic values of this SUV intact while embracing technology that is useful.”

He carries on: “This is proved by the Patrol retaining the solid axles which have given this vehicle the edge over the competition in off-road conditions. Many manufacturers who used this system on their vehicles have now dispensed with solid axles in order to provide a softer ride, but this has cost them to lose their character. Nissan has persisted and rightly so, and I can emphatically

“Desire isn’t a measure of how badly you want something; it’s a measure of how hard you are willing to work to get it.”

2005 23

FOCUS

OF DESIRES AND PASSION…MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE!

state that the Patrol is the most rugged and go-anywhere vehicle in our desert environment.”

An avid horseman and connoisseur of full-blooded Arabian horses, Sheikh Hamad pays the ultimate tribute to the Patrol by stating: “The Patrol is like a really big strong horse. In fact, I would say that it is better than a true-blue Arabian stallion.”

Being a nephew of the late Highness Sheikh Zayed Al Nayhan, ruler of Abu Dhabi and President of the UAE, Sheikh Hamad has been greatly influenced by his uncle, having been in closeproximity to him (Sheikh Hamad was a member of the Royal Guards for 20 years). Recounting H.H. Sheikh Zayed’s love for falcon hunting, he recalls that in the 1980s, His Highness said that no car could compete with the Nissan Patrol when it came to hunting. And this trend continues even today, as most members of the royal family only use the Patrol for hunting.

When not driving in the desert in his Patrol, Sheikh Hamad can be seen in his pristine white Nissan Armada, complete with personalised plate on the rear tailgate. A simple man, the Sheikh says that he likes the Armada for its space, simplicity of

design (he is right cause although the Armada is all new and big, it exudes a sense of minimalism) and its ability to transport a full complement of seven passengers in abject comfort over long distances. He should know, as Sheikh Hamad regularly drives his Armada to his holiday home in Saudi Arabia from Abu Dhabi.

A man who loves the outdoors and nature as much as he loves cars, Sheikh Hamad feels saddened when he sees people abusing nature’s bounty. He says the desert needs to be protected. “We must go live in it…to really appreciate

the beauty it holds”, he says. “People should understand the philosophy of off-roading and not just go driving wildly across the sand of time, as this, in many ways damages the ecology of the desert.”

No story would be complete without a mention of Sheikh Hamad’s incredible car collection which right now stands at 180. His museum, known as the Emirates National Auto Museum is situated on the way to Liwa, about 70 odd kilometres from Abu Dhabi. It houses a vast collection of delectable automobiles from different manufacturers and the first hint of the grandiose inside is seen by the huge‘Globe on Wheels’ at the entrance to the pyramid. This is a fully operational motor home - officially theworld’s largest, according to the “Guinness Book of World Records.” It’s a sphere with the earth painted on it, containing eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms. It sure would be nice to take a tour in.

Now would that be a world tour or a tour of the world! I am still trying to figure that one out.

NEVILLE JAL DARUKHANAWALLA

“…the Patrol is the most rugged and

go-anywhere vehicle in our desert environment”

Rania Sabeh&&

24

ME & MY NISSAN

If you were a car, what would you be?Nissan 350Z with sunset colour.

What’s your favourite stretch of road?From the border of Saida till Tripoli in Lebanon

with music to uplift my mood. This is my self therapy.What’s your proudest achievement whilst driving?

Nothing really, but once I was waiting at a U-turn in my previous car, a Nissan Pathfinder(which I really adored) and a car came out of a side road straight at me. As I wanted to save my car, I managed to move just in time, but the idiot still managed to hit the rear of my car. Thanks to my instincts, I managed to avoid serious damage.What are the trends in your field of work?

Television is such a powerful medium. I want to make it more humanized as I realise that I am entering so many households with my show. I ensure that my mannerisms and diction are absolutely decent whenever I am on air. What made you buy a Nissan Murano?

I am quite a loyal person to a brand. Since I had a Pathfinder earlier that I really liked, theMurano was an obvious choice as it looks stylish, elegant and has that aura about it …just like me!Describe your Murano?

My Murano is dark blue with beige interiors. It’s like my second house and I was connected

with it the minute I laid my eyes on it. I love it.What kind of mileage is on the odometer?

I bought the Murano in January this year and so far have clocked around 17000 trouble-free kilometres.If you were to switch careers, what would you do?

If I do not control what I am doing, I don’t like it. So next year I am started my own event management company. I am a person who hates monotony and want to do something new, so this venture will keep me buzzing.What’s in your car stereo right now?

J. Lo, Usher, R&B Mix, Arabic. ‘Baby Got Back’ by Sir Mix-a-lot is the one track that gives me a rush and I play it over and over again. What would you do with the last tankful of fuel in your car?

I will enjoy my drive with my music, of course…and being the positive person that I am, will be hoping that there will be more fuel ahead.What was the last book you read?

Da Vinci Code by Dan BrownDescribe yourself in one word?

Two words – Honest and Strong.What’s the maddest thing you have done in your Murano?

Race with cars driven by men and not let them by. When they pass me and think they have

achieved something, I simply make a U-turn and go in another direction.How sensitive are you to other people’s judgement?

I listen to others, think what is said, analyse it thoroughly before taking any action.Your views on the traffic situation?

The traffic in Lebanon is bad, but I knowshortcuts. I wish the authorities would improve the roads in Lebanon, as they are really bad.What’s the fastest you’ve driven on the public highway?

I have driven fast and like to drive fast. I like to be control of the car and not the other way around.Your favourite cuisine?

I absolutely love seafood and sushi. Fresh foods form an integral part of my diet as do pasta with cheese and tomato sauce. Meat and chicken are an absolute no-no.Your favourite phrase?

Habeit. (Translated: I love it!)Your favourite destination?

USA and London. I love the weather and the people as in these places there is nobody to prejudge me.Home is where the heart is…what does your heart yearn for?

Happiness inside me.

Young, vivacious and bubbling with enthusiasm, yet with a steady head on her shoulders marks Rania Sabeh – the 31-year-old model and presenter who is beamed into most homes in the Middle East thanks to her programme ‘Akher Al Akhbar’ (or translated into English - ‘Latest News’) on Rotana TV.

Born in Beirut, Lebanon in 1974, Rania’s formative years were spent in Egypt. She was one when the move happened and her family stayed on there for six years before returning to Lebanon. Inculcating a love for music and the media from a young age, it was but natural for Rania to major in Radio/TV from Notre Dame University in Jouni, Lebanon. By then Hanna Touma – one of Lebanon’s famous fashion gurus - discovered her as a 15 year old and her modelling career had begun.

Rania has conquered all facets of modelling in the Arab world – be it catwalks, commercials, photo shoots and has lent her face for many a product.

Rania’s tryst with this industry took a change for the better in 1998 when she acted in a music video for the Iraqi crooner Kazem Al Saher, sending the song ‘Ana Wa Leila’ soaring in the charts.

This led to ART Music asking her to be a presenter, with whom she stayed till 2003 before switching over to Rotana TV.

A self confessed perfectionist, Rania comes across as an honest and quite down to earth person. Rania’s gorgeous looks come from her mother, who she says is still beautiful despite her 63 years. Quite naturally, given her interest in music, Rania loves dancing and listening to R&B, pop and old Arabic music. Her favourite artists are Tracy Chapman, Beyonce, Madonna and Usher among others.

A happy person, Rania has the gift to make people comfortable around her and she quite emphatically states: “I have learnt to appreciate life and would like to see other people as happy as I am. I would advice people to behave normally (even when famous) and to strive to attain inner peace and well being. As only

then can one channelise fame and fortune in the right way.” Well said!

Given her taste for all things fashionable, it is no wonder that Rania drives around in the very artistic and stylish Nissan Murano.

SHIFT_ spoke to Rania to find out what makes her tick.

MURANO

Nissan Middle East FZE Jebel Ali Freezone P.O. Box 61111 United Arab Emirates Tel No.: +971 4 881 7500 Fax No.: +971 4 881 7497 Website: www.nissan-me.com

Saudi Arabia Alhamrani United Company Madinah Road P.O. Box 701 Jeddah 21421 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel No.: +966 2 6696690 TLX: 601556 AFAF SJ Fax No.: +966 2 6673658 E-Mail: info@nissan.com.sa Website: www.nissan.com.sa

Kuwait Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al-Babtain Company 4th Ring Road, Al-Rai P.O. Box 2198, SAFAT 13022, Kuwait Tel No.: +965 4737977 Freephone: 804888 Fax No.: +965 4723677 Email: General Enquiries: nissan@babtain.com.kw Website: www.nissankuwait.com

Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Al Masaood Automobiles P.O. Box 322 Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates Tel No.: +971 2 6811118 Fax No.: +971 2 6776689 E-Mail: almasood@masaood .com Website: www.masaood.com

Dubai & Northern Emirates Arabian Automobiles Co. P.O. Box 2128 Dubai - United Arab Emirates Tel No.: +971 2 2952222/2699770 Fax No.: +971 2 2952828 E-Mail: aaco@al-rostamani.co.ae Website: www.arabianautomobiles.com

Oman Suhail Bahwan Automobiles LLC P.O. Box 156, Muscat, Postal Code 112, Sultanate of Oman Tel No.: +968 24560111 Fax No.: +968 24560101 E-mail: nissan@suhailbahwangroup.com Website: www.suhailbahwangroup.com

Qatar Saleh Alhamad Almana Co. P.O. Box 91, Doha, Qatar Tel No.: +974 4441334 Fax No.: +974 4441337 E-Mail: marketing@shalmana.com Website: www.shalmana.com

Bahrain Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons BSC(C) Tel No.: +973 17 211211 Fax No.: +973 17 731206 E-Mail: almoayyed@almoayyed.com Website: www.almoayyed.com

Lebanon Rasamny Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO) BLVRD, Chiah, P.O. Box 2737 Beirut - Lebanon Tel No.: +9611 273 333 Fax No.: +9611 274188 E-mail: rymco@dm.net.lb Website: www.rymco.com.lb

Jordan Bustami & Saheb Trading Co. Amman - Wadi Saqra Nissan Bldg., P.O. Box 81821 Amman 11121 Jordan Tel No.: +9626 553 2456 E-Mail: bstc@nissan.com.jo

Egypt Nissan Motor Egypt. 6 October City 3rd Industrial Zone Area 6,7, Egypt Tel No.: + 2 02 8340920 Fax No.: +2 02 8340930 Mobile +2 010 60 74 788

Syria Rakha Co. Shallah & Hboubati P.O. Box: 33661 Harasta, Damascus, Syria Tel No.: +963 11 532 99 35 (Lines, 6-7-8-9) Fax No.: +963 11 532 99 40

Yemen The Tehama Trading company P.O.Box 4422 Shamsan street Hodeidah, Republic of Yemen Tel No.: +967 3 200 151

Algeria Nissan Algerie S.A.R.L. 6 Boulevard Colonel Amirouche Alger - Algerie Tel No.: +213 21 63 56 55

Morocco Siab, 166 Boulevard Moulay Ismail Casablanca - Morocco Tel No.: +212 22 24 44 23

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