GUANGZHOU, China – Monday, December 12th 2011 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)– China Southern Power Grid (CSG) and Better Place announced opening their Switchable Electric Car Experience Center in Guangzhou’s Pearl River New Town. A switchable battery electric car today drove out from the experience center, marking Guangzhou as the starting point for EV network infrastructure in the five Southern provinces served by CSG.

As a member of the State-Owned Enterprise EV Industry Alliance, CSG is aiming to implement China’s national energy conservation and low emission strategy, and implement EV infrastructure construction in accordance with local needs. Not unlike fuel stations for gas-powered cars, widespread EV adoption requires an extensive network of infrastructure.

In March, CSG and Better Place signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement in Guangzhou to develop EV infrastructure in China. As a global EV network provider, Better Place has extensive experience in providing EV solutions for commercial operations at scale.

After extensive research, development and planning, CSG announced in July that it would follow a centralized, open, and government-led but enterprise-guided approach in providing energy for EVs. The company’s strategy has battery switch at its core combined with centralized EV charging. CSG will promote the development of national technical standards and build a smart EV network.

CSG has signed EV infrastructure agreements with Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, and other provinces. The company has also signed similar cooperative agreements with Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanning, Haikou, and other cities. CSG has 14 EV charging stations in its network, with 2,901 charging poles in operation, and 206,000 kWh of usage over 45,000 charge cycles from January to November 2011.

During the “12th Five Year” plan period and under the government’s leadership, CSG will localize smart EV network infrastructure for the Chinese market and meet the needs of the five southern provinces to support development of the EV industry.

The Switchable Electric Car Experience Center in Guangzhou is the first fully automated battery switch facility in the five provinces of southern China. The Switchable Electric Car Experience Center covers 1,900 square meters, and is an important component of Guangzhou’s efforts to promote new energy vehicles.

This semi-translucent light green structure sits near the Guangzhou Auto Mall, the biggest auto mall in southern China, and includes a Better Place battery switch demonstration, electric cars, auditorium, and reception center. Visitors can see the switch process and experience electric cars right next to Guangzhou Auto Mall. Outside the facility are three Better Place charge spots, showing the charging capabilities of EVs. The customer service center makes reservations, and knowledgeable guides will accompany visitors throughout the facility, and explain more about EVs.

The entire switch process takes less than five minutes. The process is completely automated, as the system safely and efficiently switches out depleted batteries for fully charged ones.

This Switchable Electric Car Experience Center not only furthers knowledge about the industry, but it also promotes widespread EV adoption and raises public awareness and acceptance of EVs. This is an important step in promoting the smooth development of new energy vehicles in the five provinces of southern China.

About CSG China Southern Grid. Co., Ltd. (CSG) was established on December 29, 2002 after the power sector de-regulatory reform in China. CSG invests, constructs and operates power networks in Guangdong, Guangxi, Yunnan, Guizhou and Hainan provinces and regions. The service area is of 1 million square kilometres, with a population of 230 million.

About Better Place Better Place is the leading global provider of electric car networks that enables the mass market adoption of electric cars through an innovative battery switch model that makes driving electric cars more affordable, convenient and sustainable than today’s petrol-based cars. Better Place owns and operates a network of battery switch stations and public/personal charge spots, along with the supply of batteries that power the cars, to provide drivers with instant range extension and the convenience to drive, switch and go across an entire region. Where possible, Better Place uses renewable sources of energy to deliver fully zero emissions driving. The World Economic Forum has named Better Place a “Global Growth Company Industry Shaper” for its innovative approach in advancing the global switch to electric cars. Check out www.betterplace.com

Contacts

Better Place

Press:

John Proctor, in Guangzhou

+1 415 297 6205

johnproctor@betterplace.com

Julie Mullins, in Guangzhou

+972 54 830 0654

julie.mullins@betterplace.com

FAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co), the Al-Futtaim Group’s distributor of commercial vehicles and industrial equipment, has announced the acquisition of 100% shareholding of Al-Rehab Equipment & Machinery Company in Saudi Arabia, the exclusive distributor for Volvo Construction Equipment in the Kingdom.

Support was provided by Emirates Investment Bank in Dubai, acting as financial advisors to the buyer.

FAMCO, which is already the Volvo Construction Equipment distributor for the UAE, has made this move as part of its wider regional expansion programme. FAMCO’s entry into Saudi Arabia will position the leading construction equipment distributor to play a significant role in the Kingdom’s infrastructure development. The acquisition will extend FAMCO’s reach in Saudi Arabia across five locations, with the main branch in Jeddah.

Len Hunt, President, Al-Futtaim Automotive said: “FAMCO already has an enviable reputation in the region, but this has come solely from its development in the UAE. Now it has the opportunity to take its excellent standards to a new audience.”

Volvo Construction Equipment awarded FAMCO with its Silver Partnership award in May 2011 recognising the high dealer standards within the organisation. Jonas Gardetun, Vice President, Volvo Construction Equipment said, “We are looking forward to working with FAMCO in Saudi Arabia, as we look to grow and increase our market share in what is a rapidly expanding market.”

Paul Floyd, Managing Director, FAMCO said, “We are known in the UAE as a company that takes pride in working closely with fleet operators, providing high levels of customer service and expert advice. Now we can bring these qualities to the Saudi market where we believe we have much to offer. Saudi Arabia is leading the construction boom in the region and our aim is to set a new benchmark there. We very much look forward to the challenge of developing our operations in Saudi Arabia.”

FAMCO is a distributor of leading industrial and construction brands such as Volvo Trucks, Volvo Buses, and Volvo Construction Equipment, together with Merlo telehandlers, Linde material handling equipment, Dexion industrial storage systems, Ingersoll Rand air compressors and tools, Yanmar power products and Himoinsa generators.

The company is known in the UAE and the region for its customer focused approach and for the strong support it provides through its service and parts network. It has bases in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah and in 2011 started operations in Oman and Qatar.

- Ends -

Notes to Editor

About FAMCO

FAMCO (Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Co.) is a market leading supplier of products & services to a diverse range of industries & commercial undertakings covering the transportation, construction, manufacturing, warehousing, oil & gas and marine sectors. FAMCO serves these industries with world-class brands like Volvo Trucks, Volvo Buses, Volvo Construction Equipment, Merlo, Ingersoll Rand, Linde, Dexion, Yanmar, Himoinsa, Stanley Proto, Fenner, , Bott, Stertil, Hart & Nassau. FAMCO has operations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain & Ras Al Khaimah, plus subsidiaries in Oman and Qatar. The company’s development and success has been based on an in-depth understanding of customer needs and the dedication of its skilled staff. FAMCO is committed to providing outstanding second-to-none service levels to customers and to maintaining quality, safety and environmental standards at the highest possible levels. FAMCO is an ISO 9001:2008 & ISO 14001:2004 certified company.

Contacts

David D’Souza

Director-Public Relations

GMASCO – An Al-Futtaim group company

+971 4 228 2101

David.Dsouza@gmasco.com

(BUSINESS WIRE)– With the launch of the first nationwide electric car networks in Israel and Denmark just months away, Better Place today announced that it has secured $200 million through a Series C equity financing from a consortium of top-tier investors and partners, nearly doubling the company’s valuation to $2.25 billion (post money valuation on a fully diluted basis) since the last financing in January 2010. Since its founding in 2007, Better Place has raised more than $750 million of equity financing globally in an economic climate where investors continue to seek a competitive alternative to oil.

Better Place will use the proceeds to expand into Western Europe while it continues to advance the company’s deployment projects in Northern California, Southern China, Japan, Ontario, Canada, and Hawaii. The company will launch its initial commercial service in Israel and Denmark early next year and has already announced a series of consumer offerings for electric mobility services that are competitive with gasoline-based cars. Better Place will begin initial commercial service in the second quarter of 2012 in Australia, starting in Canberra.

“We’ve worked hard over the past four years to engineer and build a technology solution that competes with oil-based transportation,” said Shai Agassi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Better Place. “We are entering the next phase of growth for our company where we prove that our solution works, that it’s in demand, and that it scales, as we begin to push into new markets and attract new investors and new partners. I believe that our investors should be applauded for having the vision to finance the future of transportation.”

New investors in the Series C round include GE and UBS AG, among others. Existing shareholders, including Israel Corp., HSBC Group, Morgan Stanley Investment Management, VantagePoint Capital Partners, Ofer Group and Maniv Energy Capital, also joined the round. The Series C financing transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2011.

“With this round, our shareholder base now includes the world’s largest banks, blue chip asset managers and leading industrial holding companies,” said Idan Ofer, Chairman, Better Place. “Our Board, as well as all of our investors, continues to be both confident and enthusiastic about the opportunity that Better Place presents. The highly competent Better Place team has the talent and technology to rapidly deploy its electric car network on a global scale. Our Board and investor base are committed to leveraging their vast networks, experience, and diverse set of skills to accelerate the global adoption of electric cars.”

BETTER PLACE TARGETS WESTERN EUROPE NEXT

By the end of the year, Better Place will have demonstrated its solution across four continents including locations in Europe, the Middle East, the U.S., Australia, China and Japan, with each project providing unique insights into these markets.

With the Series C financing, Better Place will expand its geographic footprint beyond Denmark and further into Western Europe where government policy supporting electric cars and interest in public / private partnership are the strongest.

The company, which currently has more than 100 employees in Europe, will leverage its Danish operations, its European Commission-approved projects, and its market-leading ecosystem of partners as the building blocks for expanding into Western Europe. In September, Better Place opened an office in Paris to serve as its European headquarters, which it will use as a base for attracting talent, investors, and partners.

BETTER PLACE SET TO LAUNCH COMMERCIAL SERVICE

Better Place will launch initial commercial service to a select group of customers in Israel and Denmark in the first quarter of 2012, expanding to full commercial operations over the following months. A similar process will follow in Canberra, Australia in the second quarter of 2012. The company is currently in the final technical validation stage of its solution along with the Renault Fluence Z.E. cars. Interest and demand for Better Place mobility services and the Renault Fluence Z.E. electric sedans continues to be very strong across all three initial markets. Better Place’s goal is to help make the switchable battery electric car the top selling car in the markets it enters.

In Israel, Better Place has seen strong market demand from both fleets and consumers, as over 400 corporations, representing a potential of 80,000 employee cars, have signed letters of intent to begin switching their fleets to Better Place as the cars and the service become available.

Denmark is also seeing strong momentum. Almost 7,000 people have come to the Better Place Center in Copenhagen, opened earlier this year, with 90 percent expressing an interest in buying an electric car in the future. The company has received over 1,000 pre orders from both private and business customers. Better Place also has been successful in reaching agreements with 50 of the country’s 98 municipalities, covering 69 percent of the population, related to infrastructure deployment and fleet transitions.

In Australia, the company’s first large country deployment, Better Place has announced a series of agreements with multi-national companies, including Renault and GE, and leading local companies including ActewAGL, Lend Lease, and the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV), for the introduction of electric cars and the rapid deployment of an electric car network. By the end of 2013, Better Place expects to have the largest electric car network in the world in Australia, rivaling other competitive efforts underway in the U.S. and China.

About Better Place

Better Place is the leading global provider of electric car networks that enables the mass market adoption of electric cars through an innovative battery switch model that makes driving electric cars more affordable, convenient and sustainable than today’s petrol-based cars. Better Place owns and operates a network of battery switch stations and public/personal charge spots, along with the supply of batteries that power the cars, to provide drivers with instant range extension and the convenience to drive, switch and go across an entire region. Where possible, Better Place uses renewable sources of energy to deliver fully zero emissions driving. The World Economic Forum has named Better Place a “Global Growth Company Industry Shaper” for its innovative approach in advancing the global switch to electric cars. Check out www.betterplace.com

Contacts

Better Place

Press

Joe Paluska,

+33-6-1440-3998

joe.paluska@betterplace.com

Julie Mullins,

+1-650-387-0486

+972 54 830 0654

julie.mullins@betterplace.com

(BUSINESS WIRE)– Brammo Inc., a leading developer of electric vehicle technology and manufacturer of two-wheel electric vehicles, announced today that it has closed a $28 million Series B funding round designed to accelerate the company’s development plans.

The final tranche of the Series B was led by Polaris Industries and included further contributions from existing shareholder Alpine Energy, while adding NorthPort Investments LLC. Polaris, a recognized leader in the powersports industry joins the team as a key strategic partner for Brammo, bringing opportunities to broaden the range of markets for Brammo Electric Vehicle (EV) drivetrain technology and expertise.

“We are excited to add Polaris Industries as a valued strategic partner. Brammo and its partners are combining forces to gain dominance in the EV powersports market,” said Brammo, Inc. Founder and CEO Craig Bramscher. “We now have the ability to maintain our high standards of quality while we innovate and commercialize at speed, and this enables us to better serve our customers and build a sustainable advantage. Polaris is the clear leader in powersports and our manufacturing partner, Flextronics, is a global leader in electronics manufacturing. Our products are the synthesis of powersports and electronics. Polaris and Flextronics present the best possible partners to help Brammo achieve the scale and prolific product development plans we have for the coming years.”

The foundation of Brammo’s success lies in its innovative battery and powertrain technology, which is integral to its expanding product line, including the Enertia – urban commuter, Empulse – sports motorcycle, and Engage and Encite – supermoto and off road motorcycles. This same EV technology has potential in both the powersports and the low speed vehicles markets. The intent of Brammo’s strategic partnership with Polaris is to enhance Brammo’s leadership in the 2 wheeled EV space, while broadening its reach in terms of product development, geographic reach and aggressive growth; all while continuously improving quality, performance, and customer service.

Flextronics enables Brammo to scale through time efficient procurement, supply chain optimization, and high quality assembly. Additionally, Flextronics is partnering with Brammo on its battery packaging design and is providing design for manufacturing (DfM) services to Brammo. Currently producing the Enertia at its Sarvar facility in Hungary, Flextronics is about to begin producing the Brammo Power™ battery packs at its Frickenhausen facility in Germany.

About Polaris

With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER® for recreational and utility use, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric powered vehicles.

Polaris is a recognized leader in the powersports industry, among the global sales leaders for both snowmobiles and off-road vehicles. The Company has established a presence in the heavyweight cruiser and touring motorcycle market with Victory motorcycles and the acquisition of the Indian motorcycle brand. Additionally, Polaris continues to invest in the Global on-road low speed vehicle industry with internally developed vehicles and the acquisition of Global Electric Motorcars (GEM). Polaris enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships. Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII”, and the Company is included in the S&P Mid-Cap 400 stock price index.

Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicles accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime at www.polarisindustries.com.

About Brammo

Brammo, Inc., is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the Encite™, Enertia™, Empulse™ and Engage™ motorcycles. Brammo is the current TTXGP eGrandPrix champion of North America. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain™ systems including the Brammo Power™ battery pack and Brammo Power™ vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe and Asia. To learn more, visit www.Brammo.com.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50043858&lang=en

Contacts

Brammo Inc.

Adrian G Stewart, 541-482-9555 Ext. 310

astewart@brammo.com

On this occasion, Schlehuber indicated that “the company has gained a leading position worldwide because of its highly developed products, services as well as creativity and due to the fact that Bosch was transformed into a successful global player by a pioneer in the field of technology.”

He stressed that “Bosch’s achievements and spirit of innovation, characterising the company since its inception, has always pushed the company to explore new business fields, markets and technologies, which eventually bring even bigger success for the company.”

Schlehuber has extensive experience: from September 2010 until June 2011, he worked for the Robert Bosch GmbH as Manager of Brake Components Products in the German city of Karlsruhe. Between January 2009 and August 2010, Schlehuber held the position of Manager of Brake Components Products at the Robert Bosch LLC in Illinois, USA, after working as Marketing Manager of Braking Systems and Project Manager for the same company from August 2007 to December 2008. From October 2005 to July 2007, Schlehuber was based in Karlsruhe, Germany, where he worked as Marketing Manager of Braking Systems at the Robert Bosch GmbH after acting as General Manager Aftersales at Bosch K. K. in Tokyo between March 2000 and September 2005. Previous to his position in Japan, he had already held several positions in Germany, such as President of Marketing Automobiles Control Division, Project Manager in Marketing, Technical Support Engineer among others. Schlehuber received his higher education at the Technical University in the German city of Karlsruhe, where he studied Mechanical Engineering, majoring in the fields of reciprocating engines and dynamic-type compressors.

It is worthwhile mentioning that the turnover of Robert Bosch Middle East increased by 21% between 2009 and 2010, which proves the region’s growth opportunities. When compared to the pre-crisis levels of 2007, the turnover rose by 3.5%, showing a significant improvement in Bosch’s Middle Eastern sales activities.

Bosch operates through more than 350 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries with a workforce of over 285,000 associates worldwide. Moreover, its international network comprising sales companies and partners in 150 countries ensures that the company’s products and services will continue to enter further growth markets in the near future. Bosch has also been present in the GCC region for more than 50 years through its agents and representatives. Already ten years ago, the company established its first Gulf branch in Dubai, which has been responsible for the whole GCC region. In 2008, Bosch expanded its Dubai office and transformed it into an integrated regional office for the Middle East and North Africa region.

- END -

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About Bosch:
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 285,000 associates generated sales of 47.3 billion euros in fiscal 2010. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 350 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Bosch spent 3.8 billion euros for research and development in 2010, and applied for over 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.
Bosch is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2011. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as a “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.

Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com, and www.125bosch.com

Reader contact:
Robert Bosch Middle East FZE
Automotive Aftermarket
Phone: +97142123310
E-Mail: mazen.ghanem@ae.bosch.com

Issued on behalf of Robert Bosch Middle East FZE – Automotive Aftermarket in Dubai by bridge:media FZ-LLC, Dubai Media City. For further information, please contact Hiba Moussa on:

Tel: (+9714) 375 43 35
Fax:(+9714) 375 45 00

Email: hm@bridge-media.com
Web: http://www.bridge-media.com

To celebrate Bosch’s double anniversary in 2011: the company’s 125th anniversary as well as the 150th anniversary of its founder, Bosch organised on Wednesday, 8 June 2011 an evening gala event at The Address Hotel in Dubai. On 15 November 1886, Bosch established its “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering” in Stuttgart, laying the foundations for what has since become a leading global supplier of technology and services. Born on 23 September 1861 in Albeck near Ulm, Robert Bosch was a technology pioneer, and propelled his company to international success during his own lifetime. Robert Bosch died at the age of 80 on 12 March 1942 in Stuttgart.

Bosch operates through more than 350 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries with a workforce of over 285,000 associates worldwide. Moreover, its international network comprising sales companies and partners in 150 countries ensures that the company’s products and services will continue to enter further growth markets in the near future. Bosch has also been present in the GCC region for more than 50 years through its agents and representatives. Already ten years ago, the company established its first Gulf branch in Dubai, which had been responsible for the whole GCC region. In 2008, Bosch expanded its Dubai office and transformed it into an integrated regional office for the Middle East and North Africa region with a team of more than 70 employees.

Commenting on Bosch’s anniversary, Gürcan Karakas, Senior Vice President, Corporate Department Marketing and Sales at Bosch, said: “Bosch’s 125-year success story encourages the company to constantly maintain its focus on creativity and investment in the field of research and development, especially in the development of green products. Bosch’s global activities in leading technical fields ensure the company’s competitiveness in the upcoming years.”

Meanwhile, Frank Schlehuber, Vice President, Sales Independent Aftermarket, Automotive Aftermarket Division, indicated that “the company has gained a leading position worldwide because of its highly developed products, services as well as creativity and due to the fact that Bosch was transformed into a successful global player by a pioneer in the field of technology. He stressed that “Bosch’s achievements and spirit of innovation characterising the company since its inception, always pushes the company to explore new business fields, markets and technologies, which eventually bring even bigger success for the company.”

Guido Gring, Vice President, Automotive Aftermarket, Middle East and Africa, said: “The presence of Bosch through its office in Dubai for a whole decade and the fact that it was responsible for the Middle East and North Africa region in recent years, show the company’s interest in this region and its aspiration to strengthen its activities in it.” He pointed out that “Bosch’s anniversary activities reflect the company’s past, present, and future as well as its goal to enhance relationships with customers, trade partners and employees around the world”.

For the Bosch Group, the double anniversary will be the dominant event in 2011. With 700 activities around the world, including more than 200 events for associates, the company will be celebrating its two anniversaries over the course of this year. The first of these activities is the interactive anniversary website, which went online in January 2011. At www.125.bosch.com, everything revolves around the “BoschGlobe”, which encourages visitors to explore and take part in. In this multimedia Bosch world, visitors can go on a journey through time, where they will experience not only the company’s history, but also the new technologies of the present day. When turning the globe towards the future, they can leave their own mark on the map in the form of ideas and wishes.

With over 3,800 patent applications filed each year and approximately 3.8 billion euros invested in research and development annually, Bosch aims to maintain its focus on future innovations and in this way to lay the foundations for further sustainable growth. In accordance with its strategic guiding principle, all products supplied by the three Bosch business sectors automotive technology, industrial technology, as well as consumer goods and building technology are fully in line with the company motto “invented for life”. Thus, Bosch has become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of diesel and gasoline injection systems as well as vehicle safety systems such as the ABS antilock braking system and the ESP® electronic stability programme. Bosch is also one of the largest suppliers of power tools, heating technology, household appliances, and security systems. The Bosch industrial technology business sector is a recognised specialist in drive and control technologies. Moreover, Bosch’s business sector includes the packaging technology and solar energy divisions.

With targeted long-term plans, Bosch is investing in promising markets such as renewable energy and electromobility. Accordingly, some 45 percent of the annual research and development budget is devoted exclusively to products that conserve energy and resources. At the same time, the company has been developing innovative products for decades, whose everyday use save considerable amounts of energy worldwide – in automotive powertrains, in household appliances, and in heating, cooling, as well as air conditioning systems.

It is worthwhile mentioning that credibility, efficiency, and reliability – the fundamental values of the company founder Robert Bosch – are still core elements of the corporate culture and the company’s business strategy. In the spirit of its founder, the Bosch Group continues to place great emphasis on its social and environmental responsibility.

- ENDS -

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About Bosch:

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 285,000 associates generated sales of 47.3 billion euros in fiscal 2010. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 350 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Bosch spent 3.8 billion euros for research and development in 2010, and applied for over 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.

Bosch is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2011. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as a “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.

Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com, and www.125bosch.com

Reader contact:
Robert Bosch Middle East FZE
Automotive Aftermarket
Phone: +97142123310
E-Mail: mazen.ghanem@ae.bosch.com

Issued on behalf of Robert Bosch Middle East FZE – Automotive Aftermarket in Dubai by bridge:media FZ-LLC, Dubai Media City. For further information, please contact Hunadah Al Hariri on:

Tel: (+9714) 375 43 35
Fax:(+9714) 375 45 00

Email: hh@bridge-media.com
Web: http://www.bridge-media.com

This year’s Automechanika Middle East 2011, which is being held in the Dubai World Trade Center from 7 – 9 June 2011, will see Bosch’s participation in Hall 2, where it will position itself as “The Partner for the Future of the Workshop.”

As the only single-source supplier of diagnostic expertise and spare parts, Bosch Automotive Aftermarket is more than able to live up to this claim. The company will demonstrate a total of 15 new and existing products as well as topics from the fields of diagnostics, spare parts and services.

Bosch sees the Automechanika Middle East 2011 as an opportunity to introduce its new maintenance and repair program for commercial vehicles. The spotlight will be on the new Bosch KTS Truck and KTS Truck 800 testers for commercial vehicle diagnostics. The control unit diagnostic tool KTS Truck and the associated Esitronic Truck software package have been developed specifically to address the needs of commercial vehicle workshops and complete the comprehensive Bosch portfolio of spare parts and testing technology for vans, heavy-duty trucks, buses and trailers. Bosch produces two different versions of the new control unit diagnostic tester for commercial vehicles: A KTS module for use with a PC or laptop already present in the workshop, and the KTS 800 Truck complete solution with Diagnostic Control Unit (DCU) – a powerful tablet PC also recently developed by Bosch.

The new EPS 200 diesel test bench for testing common-rail injection pumps and injectors produced by Bosch and other manufacturers will be demonstrated for the first time at the trade fair. A warranty rating is also possible for Bosch components. An integrated cooling system, electronic injection quantity measurement and a comprehensive self-diagnostic system help workshops to work with convenience and professionalism and are a simple way to get started with testing common-rail injectors using piezo technology.

These are the new products, which will be showcased during the exhibition:
• Air conditioning service device
• Batteries with EFB/AGM technology for vehicles with start/stop functionality
• Battery chargers BAT 490 and battery testers BAT 131
• Diagnostic testers KTS Truck and KTS 800 Truck
• Diesel test bench EPS 200
• Esitronic: Esitronic, Esitronic Truck
• Repair concept for common-rail injectors (CRI/CRIN stage 3)
• Repair of electronic components, including control units
• Truck parts program, e.g. new Aerotwin wiper blade for commercial vehicles
• Tire changer TCE 4425 and wheel balancer WBE

The focus for 2011 is on workshop customers. Bosch will be bringing its automotive expertise to bear in this sector so that customers can learn how to repair even the most state-of-the-art vehicles. Visitors can expect a series of live demos on diagnostic equipment, spare parts and service offerings. Among the items on the agenda is how to use a Bosch KTS tester to perform vehicle diagnostics.

In terms of interactive shows, visitors can experience how the right hardware and software can make troubleshooting, servicing and repair efficient processes – all backed up by Bosch’s cross-brand expertise. The extensive range of workshop equipment will also be demonstrated at the event, including tools for vehicle alignment and the full spectrum of wheel servicing.

Another rollout of Bosch’s new products is the presentation of a number of workshop concepts, such as Bosch Car Service for passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle, noting that some new requirements are introduced to suit the needs of the Middle East region. As part of the new product range will be the Beissbarth’s new axles, wheel alignment and tire changers. All the new features can be seen in hall 2 at stand 2AM506.

- ENDS -

NOTES TO EDITORS:

About Bosch:

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In the areas of automotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, and building technology, some 285,000 associates generated sales of 47.3 billion euros in fiscal 2010. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 350 subsidiaries and regional companies in over 60 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. Bosch spent 3.8 billion euros for research and development in 2010, and applied for over 3,800 patents worldwide. With all its products and services, Bosch enhances the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial.

Bosch is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2011. The company was set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as a “Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering.” The special ownership structure of Robert Bosch GmbH guarantees the entrepreneurial freedom of the Bosch Group, making it possible for the company to plan over the long term and to undertake significant up-front investments in the safeguarding of its future. Ninety-two percent of the share capital of Robert Bosch GmbH is held by Robert Bosch Stiftung GmbH, a charitable foundation. The majority of voting rights are held by Robert Bosch Industrietreuhand KG, an industrial trust. The entrepreneurial ownership functions are carried out by the trust. The remaining shares are held by the Bosch family and by Robert Bosch GmbH.

Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com, and www.125bosch.com

Reader contact:
Robert Bosch Middle East FZE
Automotive Aftermarket
Phone: +97142123310
E-Mail: mazen.ghanem@ae.bosch.com

Issued on behalf of Robert Bosch Middle East FZE – Automotive Aftermarket in Dubai by bridge:media FZ-LLC, Dubai Media City. For further information, please contact Hunadah Al Hariri on:

Tel: (+9714) 375 43 35
Fax:(+9714) 375 45 00

Email: hh@bridge-media.com
Web: http://www.bridge-media.com

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Monday, June 6th 2011 [ME NewsWire]

Recognized as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of rolling bearings, linear technology components, and steering systems, NSK, and its partner, master distributor, Rolman Group, are set to attend this year’s Automechanika Middle East 2011. The exhibition, lauded as the largest international automotive aftermarket trade fair in the wider Middle Eastern Region, takes place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 7-9 June 2011.

The Rolman Group was appointed as master distributor for NSK in 2001; however, their successful track record began in the late 1970’s. As one of the largest and most established distributors of bearings and technical services in the Middle East & Africa, the Rolman Group carries the broadest range of products for any application in several industries areas including Automotive, Agriculture, Transport, Oil & Gas, Food Processing, and the Steel and Cement industries. NSK, a truly global brand, with manufacturing bases in Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and The Americas, has a turnover more than 4.4 billion Euros a year. Together these two companies will exhibit their products and capabilities to a worldwide audience at Automechanika Middle East.

Automechanika Middle East was recently awarded title of “Fastest Growing Show in the Middle East/Africa” by Trade Show Executive’s Fastest 50 due to its rapid growth.

– Ends –

About The Rolman Group:

Founded in 1969, the Rolman Group has become one of the largest and most established distributors of bearings and related technical services in the Middle Eastern and African regions. Syrian in origin, The Rolman Group, was appointed as the master distributor for NSK in 2001. Carrying one of the broadest ranges of products, The Rolman Group distributes NSK products to suit mechanical needs in several different industries including: automotive, agriculture, transport, oil & gas, food processing, the steel and cement industries, and other industrial areas.

The Rolman Group’s core competencies encompass: storage of its extensive inventory, efficient and quick order fulfillment, technical expertise, and customer-friendly service. A Middle Eastern company, The Rolman Group’s headquarters are in Damascus, Syria. The company has its state-of-the-art logistics operations center in Jebel Ali, UAE.

The Rolman Group has a market leading position in the Middle East and Africa with top name companies world-wide in over 40 countries. Owing to its unmatched customer service, relationships built on trust, its integrity, and professionalism, the Rolman Group is still in business with its original customer base.

For more information, please visit: www.rolman.com.

About NSK:

NSK is one of the leading manufacturers of rolling bearings, linear technology components, and steering systems. Established in 1916, the originally Japanese company can be found on almost every continent. Truly a global brand, NSK is known for its top-of-the-line products, a status that it maintains through continuous innovation.

NSK conducts research and development in four core technological areas: tribology- lubrication necessary for rolling bearings, material engineering, analysis technology, and mechatronics- the combination of mechanics and electronics. NSK has 12 research and development facilities globally.

With nearly 100 years of experience, NSK was the first company in Japan to produce ball bearings. The company’s accumulated technology in bearings has been applied to precision products to support core components used in a variety of applications. It currently operates more than 50 sales offices and production sites.

For more information please visit: www.nsk.com.

Contacts

Rolman World

Ms. Mais Al Hamwi

Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE

Tel: +971 (0) 4 887 3700

Email: mais-hr@rolman.com

(BUSINESS WIRE)– Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Company, a premier supplier of energetic mission critical solutions, today formally announces a new Portable, Non-Lethal, Vehicle Arresting Device known as The Pit-BULTM, during a live demonstration at the Force Protection Equipment Demonstration (FPED VIII), 17-19 May 2011, at the Stafford Regional Airport, Stafford, Virginia.

The Pit-BUL, which stands for Pit-Ballistic Undercarriage LanyardTM, uses its innovative technology to immobilize a wide range of vehicles and to cover a wide spectrum of applications including checkpoints, border crossings, asset/building entrances and exits, airports, and many other applications for pursuit management and traffic control situations. The system is concealed in the form of a speed bump, enabling an element of surprise.

Pit-BUL can be quickly deployed and remains passive until remotely activated by the user from as far as 300 feet away. Once activated, the target vehicle is stopped safely and cannot escape. The system is so easy to use, that vehicles may be returned to drivable condition in less than 10 minutes.

Unlike most traditional vehicle arresting devices that puncture the tires which frequently sends the vehicle out of control, the Pit-BUL technology and innovation offers an element of safety that could ideally eliminate a tragic outcome while stopping a vehicle. Over 225 tests have been performed on the Pit-BUL without any injuries or anomalies, and it is effective in capturing up to a 6,000 lb. truck at a speed of 40 mph.

The DoD Non-Lethal Weapons Program supports non-lethal alternatives to prevent civilian casualties, and the Department of Homeland Security has made unlawful vehicle border crossing a priority.

We will be on hand to answer any questions you may have during FPED VIIIat booth 34H.

A product video of the Pit-BUL is available online at: http://www.psemc.com/vehicle_arresting_technologies.html

About Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Company (PSEMC):

PSEMC is the industry leader in the design, development, and production of ordnance, electronics, laser, pyrotechnic, and vehicle arresting components and systems for the defense, aerospace, and commercial sectors. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality and most reliable products and services worldwide. WWW.PSEMC.COM

Contacts

PSEMC

Larry Ostendorf

Director, Business Development

480-763-3044

lostendorf@psemc.com

Karyn Woods

Marketing Communications & PR

831-637-3731

kwoods@psemc.com

UAE May 2011: As the UAE is earmarked as one of the world’s fastest growing markets for personal grooming, Juma Al Majid Group is confirmed as the exclusive market distributor for Germany’s Severin.

According to Eric Berchtold, Severin’s Area Director, Middle East and Africa, the UAE is an attractive destination for quality small domestic appliances with consumer spending in the region one of the highest worldwide.

He said that the greater Middle East holds the second slot in sales of electrical personal grooming products tipped to be worth Dhs 92 billion this year.

“The UAE features in the top five markets worldwide in both volume and spending on small quality domestic appliances and personal grooming products,” he said.

Berchtold cited a recent report from Euromonitor International suggesting that investment in personal grooming is growing at more than 12 per cent per annum, region wide.

“Our aim is to capture at least two per cent market share in the personal grooming segment alone.

“We know that the right partner is critical to this success and the partnership with Juma Al Majid sets us in good stead. We believe that the Juma Al Majid legacy marries beautifully with Severin’s quality achievement record,” he said.

Juma Al Majid will launch a 75-plus Severin portfolio across a range of small domestic appliances in its 15 outlets in the UAE, from May 2011. The Group has a broad distribution and retail reach in all seven Emirates, including ten service centres.

Nassim Dissi, president-trading for Juma Al Majid said that the local market has also shown a strong taste for good coffee-making equipment with the UAE placed among the five top coffee consumption markets globally.

“UAE consumers are well-travelled thus well-versed in global trends and the local market taste for coffee is no exception. Coffee consumption in the UAE is tipped to grow 80 per cent by 2014.”

He observed that UAE consumers are known for their appreciation of excellent products at reasonable prices and said that the Severin brand with its German stamp of quality is well-positioned to match this demand.

“Severin is the German leader in coffee machines. Indeed, the Café Caprice range is equipped with a Vaprotonic boiling system that brews coffee as though it was prepared by hand, offering a modern take on the traditional method.”

Severin has also reinforced its regional presence by setting up an office in Dubai, complete with a specialist training team to support the Juma Al Majid service centres.

—–Ends——

Photo captions

Caption 1: Pictured from left: Juma Al Majid’s Divisional Manager-Home Appliances, Nidal Khouly and President-Trading Division, Nassim Dissi with Eric Berchtold, Area Director Middle East and Africa of Germany’s Severin.

Caption 2: Severin’s comprehensive range of more than 75 small home appliances are now available at Juma Al Majid’s 15-plus outlets across the UAE, confirmed Nassim Dissi President -Trading Division, Juma Al Majid.

Caption 3: Germany’s Severin presents more than 75 quality small domestic appliances and products at Juma Al Majid’s outlets across the Emirates, complete with a Severin trained after-sales team, explained Nidal Khouly Divisional Manager-Home Appliances of Juma Al Majid, Severin’s exclusive distributor in the UAE.

Caption 4: Juma Al Majid’s 15-plus outlets feature an extensive range of Severin coffee machines, toasters, blenders and barbeque equipment, said the JAM‘s President -Trading Division, Nassim Dissi.

About Severin
For more than 60 years, Germany’s Severin has focussed its energies on the quality design, production and distribution of a comprehensive range of home appliances and personal grooming products – always geared to lifestyle enablement at a sensible investment.

From its Dubai-based office, Severin introduces more than 75 products from its wide-range assortment of home appliances to regional markets across breakfast, lunch, dinner, entertaining and grooming, including an extensive range of coffee makers.
www.severin.de

About Juma Al Majid
Home Appliances Department, set up when the company was incorporated in 1950, is one of the oldest businesses within Juma Al Majid Est. The department represents premium international brands in the UAE and its efforts have been instrumental in making these brands achieve the market dominance that they currently enjoy. The two flagship brands that form the backbone of the business are General Electric of USA and Samsung of South Korea. Other major brands include Gibson of USA, Glem Gas of Italy and Teac of Japan, amongst others.

The department’s infrastructure includes 9 sales outlets to reach the furthest of our customers, warehouses for adequate inventories, 10 service centres to be within easy reach of our customers if they face any after-sales problems and a fleet of vans to execute deliveries, installations and any urgent maintenance requirements.
www.al-majid.com

Media contact:
Susan Furness at Strategic Solutions
Tel: +97150 6556126 susan@strategicsolutionsonline.com