Mercedes-Benz has launched the EQS, its first all-electric luxury sedan, and the company is positioning it as the most aerodynamic production car in the world.
Its looks certainly suggest this is the case, with the design being what can only be described as sleek and curvaceous. Small cues aside, there is clear blue water between the EQS and its brand siblings.
There is nothing old school here at all. The EQS is a car with modernity as its very core. It has the air of a concept car, but one where the designers have just about kept a grip on reality.
“Fusing technology, design, functionality and connectivity, the EQS delights both drivers and passengers,” Mercedes says, which is a mission statement and a half, even by the standards of traditionally less-than-shy car manufacturers.
Mercedes has clearly put a bit of effort in here – the EQS will be the flagship of the German marque's fleet when it finally hits the world's roads, so there is some anticipation ahead of its arrival. The first models on the market will be the 450+ and the 580 4Matic, and they form a spearhead in Mercedes' bid to offer a carbon-neutral fleet within 20 years.
Power-wise, both models have a top speed of 210 kilometres an hour. There is a considerable difference when it comes to acceleration though, as the 450 can reach a ton from a standing start in 6.2 seconds, while the 580 crushes that with its 4.3 seconds rating.
You can juice both up in just under half an hour at a rapid charging station, and Mercedes says drivers can get up to 770km out of a full battery.
Inside, the cabin appears distinctly plush, palatial even. The seating and layout is all very Starship Enterprise, while the infotainment system is the same as the new S-Class, so you get a 12-inch driver’s display and a 13-inch portrait touchscreen. However, you can also pay extra for the new Hyperscreen system, which, basically, is a large piece of glass with three built-in screens.
No firm date has been set for a UAE launch yet, though summer this year is a good bet. There is no word on price yet either, but reports suggest figures of around $110,000 for a base model.
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
The specs: Audi e-tron
Price, base: From Dh325,000 (estimate)
Engine: Twin electric motors and 95kWh battery pack
Transmission: Single-speed auto
Power: 408hp
Torque: 664Nm
Range: 400 kilometres
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Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
Top investing tips for UAE residents in 2021
Build an emergency fund: Make sure you have enough cash to cover six months of expenses as a buffer against unexpected problems before you begin investing, advises Steve Cronin, the founder of DeadSimpleSaving.com.
Think long-term: When you invest, you need to have a long-term mindset, so don’t worry about momentary ups and downs in the stock market.
Invest worldwide: Diversify your investments globally, ideally by way of a global stock index fund.
Is your money tied up: Avoid anything where you cannot get your money back in full within a month at any time without any penalty.
Skip past the promises: “If an investment product is offering more than 10 per cent return per year, it is either extremely risky or a scam,” Mr Cronin says.
Choose plans with low fees: Make sure that any funds you buy do not charge more than 1 per cent in fees, Mr Cronin says. “If you invest by yourself, you can easily stay below this figure.” Managed funds and commissionable investments often come with higher fees.
Be sceptical about recommendations: If someone suggests an investment to you, ask if they stand to gain, advises Mr Cronin. “If they are receiving commission, they are unlikely to recommend an investment that’s best for you.”
Get financially independent: Mr Cronin advises UAE residents to pursue financial independence. Start with a Google search and improve your knowledge via expat investing websites or Facebook groups such as SimplyFI.
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The five pillars of Islam
1. Fasting
2. Prayer
3. Hajj
4. Shahada
5. Zakat
Haircare resolutions 2021
From Beirut and Amman to London and now Dubai, hairstylist George Massoud has seen the same mistakes made by customers all over the world. In the chair or at-home hair care, here are the resolutions he wishes his customers would make for the year ahead.
1. 'I will seek consultation from professionals'
You may know what you want, but are you sure it’s going to suit you? Haircare professionals can tell you what will work best with your skin tone, hair texture and lifestyle.
2. 'I will tell my hairdresser when I’m not happy'
Massoud says it’s better to offer constructive criticism to work on in the future. Your hairdresser will learn, and you may discover how to communicate exactly what you want more effectively the next time.
3. ‘I will treat my hair better out of the chair’
Damage control is a big part of most hairstylists’ work right now, but it can be avoided. Steer clear of over-colouring at home, try and pursue one hair brand at a time and never, ever use a straightener on still drying hair, pleads Massoud.
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UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Ashes 2019 schedule
August 1-5: First Test, Edgbaston
August 14-18: Second Test, Lord's
August 22-26: Third Test, Headingley
September 4-8: Fourth Test, Old Trafford
September 12-16: Fifth Test, Oval
UK's plans to cut net migration
Under the UK government’s proposals, migrants will have to spend 10 years in the UK before being able to apply for citizenship.
Skilled worker visas will require a university degree, and there will be tighter restrictions on recruitment for jobs with skills shortages.
But what are described as "high-contributing" individuals such as doctors and nurses could be fast-tracked through the system.
Language requirements will be increased for all immigration routes to ensure a higher level of English.
Rules will also be laid out for adult dependants, meaning they will have to demonstrate a basic understanding of the language.
The plans also call for stricter tests for colleges and universities offering places to foreign students and a reduction in the time graduates can remain in the UK after their studies from two years to 18 months.
