Rymco newsletter 2013 3/11/13 12:32 PM Page 1
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 3
Letter from the Chairman
Dear Readers,
With the New Year rolling in, I would like to personally wish you a healthy and flourishingyear. Despite witnessing ups and downs in 2012 with the political turmoil in the region and occurrences in Lebanon, we have managed to keep our welfare and economy stable.Fortunately, I believe that this is a result of our will power, positive energy and the optimismthat we always tend to demonstrate.
Rasamny Younis Motor Company has witnessed some rough times of its own; however,with the right strategic direction as our skeleton and a devoted team of employees, we have managed to identify the key goal to maintain this business at the highest level of expectation: our commitment to stakeholders' satisfaction.
The year 2012 was a good year for RYMCO; we have many accomplishments to be proudof; outstanding financial results versus the previous years, high market share, brand positioning, customer satisfaction for our Aftersales service, several new model launches,Corporate Social Responsibilities, and many others which you will read about elaborately inthe pages to come.
Upon closing the year 2012, the financial statement exhibited proud figures proving to us that our hard work throughout the yearwas entirely successful. Referring to page (9), you will find a table demonstrating the achieved numbers in comparison to 2011.
Given the situation the automotive industry has developed into, RYMCO maintaining its top 3 market share position has been challenging.The market has become extensively an A and B segment market with prices ranging below $13,000, segments we are not present in.We worked despite this fact and did the best we could and achieved high sales volume. Through studies and analysis, we havereached the conclusion that not only has consumer behavior shifted towards these popular segments, but the used car imports volumehas drastically been decreasing yearly since 2012. The increase of new car sales is actually a cannibalization from the imported usedvehicles.
When it comes to our marketing plan, we always have one thing in mind: brand position. RYMCO is one of the strongest dealers inLebanon holding great car manufacturer brands under its portfolio of brands. Whether we are referring to its own corporate identityor to the brands it holds, we have managed to keep strong brand images, illustrating their strengths versus other brands in the market.Another factor that has paved RYMCO's brand position is its well-trained, experienced and professional Aftersales Service Team,ensuring the constant satisfaction of our customers.
We had many successful new model launches throughout 2012, the “Funkiest Crossover” Nissan Juke, the popular Nissan Sunny,and the historic All-New Altima. Each of these models has found their place in the Lebanese market whether by creating their ownnew segments or evolved into a new generation based on the success of the model in previous years. This year, we have a hopefulplan to launch several models in new segments or by evolving the all-new Nissan Sentra and the all-new Infiniti JX along with thelong-awaited 4th generation of the popular Nissan Pathfinder.
Finally, allow me to express our interest in moral and corporate social responsibility; belonging to a society automatically entails youto hold conscientiousness to your surroundings. We strongly believe that it is our duty to contribute to the environment and to the community we live in. Let us act together on this matter to be able to make a difference.We look forward to the exciting years ahead of us, promising to deliver on the best.
Sincerely yours,Fayez C. Rasamny
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 2
IN THIS ISSUE• Letter from the Chairman 3
• What’s on your mind? 7
• RYMCO Financials 9
• RYMCO Automotive and Market Situation 11
• RYMCO Campaign Highlights 15
• RYMCO Events 17
• RYMCO News 21
International & Regional news
Local news
Aftersales news
Digital news
Awards and recognitions
RYMCO annual employee dinner
• RYMCO Coming in 2013 41
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 4
Thought it is always crowded and no one could pass
without reservation, maintenance is very good, Asaad
is an excellent service advisor and Call Center is
professional.
Mr. Yasser Tay-Infiniti FX35
‘‘
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 7
Very Satisfied with customer servicing at Rymco. In the
After sales, they are punctual and pay good attention
to Cars And customers.
Mr. Jihad El Jawhari-Nissan Xtrail Classic
‘‘
WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND?
Great service and very friendly team. They have always
exceeded my expectations and I never had to worry
about fixing the car. It is a pleasure dealing with them.
Sara Dibes,Infiniti G35
Very good service, punctual, advisors are very friend-
ly, and up to my expectations.
Mr. Imad Salameh,Infiniti Fx35 &Nissan Qashqai,
Employees are very good. They call us after we finish
the service to check if everything went well. Excellent
service which exceeds our expectations.
Mr. Maroon Karam,Nissan Tiida
Great service, punctual maintenance, and even
sometimes exceed my expectation for car delivery.
Cherine Hamaiti,Nissan Tiida
‘‘
‘‘
‘‘
‘‘
This newly added section in the newsletter allows our customers to share what’s on their mind. We always appreciate customer suggestions, feedback and remarks towards our company.
It is beneficial to us to receive your input, so please voice your opinion and if you would like us to include it in the next issue of our biannual issues, please let us know by sending an email to [email protected] or through our Facebook page.
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 6
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 9
New Cars Sales (nb of units) 8,009 6,806
New Cars Sales ($) $143,524,922 $129,853,614
Turnover ($) $166,506,534 $156,282,595
Turnover Increase in % versus last year 6.54%
Gross Operating Income (EBIT) $9,608,462 $7,809,434
EBIT Increase in % versus last year 23.04%
EBT $6,005,660 $1,944,255
EBT Increase in % versus last year 208.89%
Return on Total Sales (ROS) 3.61% 1.24%
Return on New Cars Sales 4.18% 1.50%
Debt to Equity Ratio 1.30 1.71
JAN-DEC 2012Q1-Q4 ACTUAL
JAN-DEC 2011Q1-Q4 ACTUAL
RYMCO FINANCIALSTATEMENT KEY FIGURES
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 8
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 11
2010 2011
New Car Sales + Used Imports
95333
36112
59221
76749
34521
42228
740
50
37662
36388
TIV(New + Imports) New Used imports
2012
RYMCO Total Market
RYMCO Market Share Vs. TIV (Including commercial vehicles)
4273
7932
80
85
6369
640
7
6252
20
082
35418
34752
36112
34521
37662
2007(21.28%) 2008(22.40%) 2009(23.26%) 2010(17.64%) 2011(18.56%) 2012(16.60%)
• The Total Industry Volume, including New and Used car sales is decreasing.
• Used cars dropped by 28.69% in 2011 vs. 2010, and 13.83% in 2012 vs 2011, therefore the increase in new car sales of 9.09% is actually a cannibalization from theused imported vehicles.
TIV +9.09%
Cars +6.21%
SUV +19.45%
CV +5.75%
MPV +70.31%
Growth Variation –2011 vs 2012
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 10
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 13
2012 2011 2010 2009
Jan fev mar apr may june july aug sep oct nov dec
500
1.000
1.500
2.000
2.500
3.000
3.500
4.000
4.500
Seasonality
Rymco Natco Century
19.5
2% 25.3
0%
16.7
1%
16.6
0%
25.18%
17.6
5%
2011 2012
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
Dealers Market Share (Including Commercial)
2011 vs. 2012
31.18%
21.8
2%
39.9
7%
6.0
2%
1.0
2%
28.3
9%
21.3
5%
42.8
3%
5.9
5%
1.2
7%
2011 2012
Country of Origin Share (incl. Commercial Vehicles)
2011 vs. 2012
Japan Europe Korea USA China
Japanese Segment - Dissection
10
760
4637
6123
10
696
4658
60
38
Total Japan JP excl Nissan Nissan
2011 2012
• In 2012, Japanese-origin brands market sharepercentage decreased while Korean-originbrands market share increased by almost 3 points reaching 42.83%.
• In 2012, Nissan acclaimed almost 56% of theJapanese Segment
Top Players (including commercial)
2011 vs. 2012
TIV Kia Nissan Hyundai
2011 2012
34521
830
5
6123
5485
37662
9484
60
38
6647
• Total market volume increased by 9%, as a result of increase in sales volume of Hyundai and Kia when comparing 2012 with 2011. Nissan decreased slightly by 1.38% noting that more than 50% of Kia and Hyundai’s sales were their A segment models Picanto and i10.
• The top 3 players in the automotive market are Kia, Nissan and Hyundai, constituting almost 60% of the total TIV. These brands are dominating the market.
2011 2012
TIV – Split per Month (Including Commercial Vehicles)
January February March April May June July August September October TIV
2118
2239
1961
260
0
2846
3131
2720
2961
2959
3433
3695
3646
3513
2973
3556
2962
3119
330
4
3312
3271
November
2370
2955
December
2935
360
4
34521
37662
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 12
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 15
KAWASAKI CAMPAIGNS
END OF YEAR CAMPAIGN 2012
NEW MODEL LAUNCHES
OTHER CAMPAIGNS
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Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 17
Rasamny-Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO), exclusive dealer of Nissan Motors in Lebanon unveiled the'class above' all-new 2013 Nissan Altima breaking newground for the mid-size sedan segment. The launch wasattended by Rymco executives, Nissan Middle East andInternational representatives along with members of thepress.
“We took one of our most successful model, kept its DNAand changed nearly everything - the visual appeal, the driving experience and, of course, the technology. The newAltima is hands-down the most engaging vehicle in itsclass,” said Atsuo Kosaka, Managing Director, NissanMiddle East. “If you liked the previous Altima, you'll lovethis one even more. And if you've never driven an Altimabefore, get ready to have your notion of a mid-size sedanredefined.”
The result is a modern and charismatic vehicle over delivering on the fundamentals earned over four generations and two decades, for quality and reliability andadds new levels of innovation, fuel-efficiency, dynamic performance and premium style.
“The all-new 2013 Nissan Altima offers the whole package- stylish design inside and out, outstanding ride, handling,acceleration and fuel economy, and thoughtful technologysolutions not currently found in the segment,” explainedFayez Rasamny, Chairman of RYMCO. “For people whoenjoy experiencing life to the fullest, we have the new premium mid-size sedan just for them.” He concluded.
During the launch, Trevor Mann, Senior Vice President,Nissan Motor Corporation Limited made an update onNissan Power 88 Plan, a wide-range six year business planthat will accelerate the company's growth across new markets and segments.
"With Power 88, Nissan has started a plan on the offensiveinstead of reconstructing something or defending something. We are satisfied with the progress we havemade towards the goals under this plan" said Trevor Mann.
"Nissan will add a new vehicle model about every sixweeks and, through its new brand philosophy, will bring'Innovation and Excitement for Everyone'. Innovation iswhat we do! Human centric, accessible, purposeful.Excitement is the customer's experience! Engaging, intuitive, energizing". He added.
In line with Nissan corporate objectives and the success ofthe brand in Lebanon, Rymco surprised the attendance byannouncing a new addition to their Nissan and Infiniti
outlets in Dbayeh in line with their continuous commitmentto deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction.
Nissan Power 88 emphasizes key corporate goals: Nissanwill renew its focus on the overall customer experiencethrough actions that elevate its brands' power and salespower. By the end of fiscal 2016, the company will aim toachieve a global market share of 8% and increase its corporate operating profit to a sustainable 8%.
RYMCO UNVEILS THE ALL NEW NISSAN ALTIMANissan and Infiniti New Showroom plan revealed
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 16
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 19
Rasamny-Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO),
exclusive dealer of Nissan Motors in Lebanon, organized
an all- day event exclusive to its fleet partners on Saturday
2nd of June to introduce Nissan's all-new models line-up
inclusive of Micra, Sunny and Juke. The event was held at
Mir Amin Palace in Beittedine and was attended by a great
number of guests from all Lebanese car rental companies.
Guests spent the entire day amid an Arabic theme at the
exquisite oriental Palace, and were granted exclusive test
drives on the new Sunny, Juke and Micra. A custom made
circuit was set exclusively for the event and was channeled
by more than twenty professional marshals to assist drivers
while experiencing new cars features and performance.
Fayez Rasamny, Chairman of RYMCO, stressed on
Rymco's relationship with rental companies in Lebanon:
“We are always delighted to be able to gather our partners
to create a more personal relationship with them. We are
certain that these car models will satisfy their requirements,
as well as having the reassurance of their durability and
quality, the 2 main characteristics which define the Nissan
brand. In addition, RYMCO's aftersales facilities ensures
the best service to its customers thus encouraging these
rental car companies' decision making”
The 2013 Nissan Sunny, a completely redesigned car,
offers more space, classifying it as the most spacious
vehicle in its segment. The Sunny is powered by a 1.5-litre
4-cylinder engine, all models include dual front airbags,
ABS with EBD, brake assist, power windows and mirrors,
factory keyless entry, Radio CD auxiliary, making it the best
choice amongst its competition.
As for Nissan Juke, it is a distinctive combination of SUV
toughness, coupe sporting style, and Motorcycle thrill. This
model is attracting different type of customers, with one
common trait: attitude. Most of its customers are known to
be creative and daring, which is expressed by the Juke's
design.
In addition, this models contains a variety of standard
options that is exclusive to luxury cars, such as intelligent
keyless entry and start, electrically foldable mirrors,
originally installed Bluetooth set, etc…
And last but not least, the recently re-introduced all-new
Nissan Micra was also available for test-drive during this
event as well, with its high safety features and powerful
engine that shifted buyer's perception on the small
hatchbacks since the standard package offered has a 1.5L
engine, ABS and 4 airbags, along power windows and
mirrors, factory keyless entry and radio CD, all that at a
very affordable price and various financing schemes to suit
all needs.
RYMCO INTRODUCES NISSAN'S LATEST MODELS TO ITS FLEET PARTNERS
Rasamny-Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO)
exclusive dealer of Nissan Motors (Nissan, Infiniti), GM
vehicles (GMC), Kawasaki and Renault Trucks in Lebanon
made a remarkable impact at the Outdoor Lebanon
exhibit for the second year in a row. RYMCO revelead
exciting displays to showcase New Nissan Juke and latest
Kawasaki 2012 models along the newly acquired renowned
brands Nolan and Spidi; holding a wide range of
motorbikes accessories, helmets and motorbike attires.
“Our participation in 'Outdoor Lebanon' & 'The Beirut
Motorcycle show' is part of our strategy to provide our
customers with the latest Leisure and Sports models that
cater Motorcycles and Outdoor enthusiasts.” said Mr.
Fayez Rasamny Chairman of RYMCO. “Taking part in the
country's largest and most comprehensive show for the
outdoors and sports industry, creates a platform to
introduce our new and outstanding models in all
automotive sectors.” He added.
The new Nissan Juke which was the only crossover car
displayed in the exhibition. Juke is a unique combination of
motorsports-inspired exterior and interior design with
unexpected levels of technology. Inside, the sports car
theme continues with a cockpit oriented cabin dominated
by a centre console design inspired by a motorcycle fuel tank.
As for Kawasaki the total line-up range from sport, super
sports, naked, touring, cruiser, off road, motor cross, ATVs,
RUVs and Jet Skis features a variety of new Motorcycle
models including the thrilling Ninja (250R, ER-6F, Z1000SX,
ZX6R, ZX-10R, ZZR 1400), Naked ER-6N, Z1000(ABS),
Touring Versys 650 (ABS) and Versys 1000 (ABS), Cruiser
VN 900 Classic SP and VN 900 Customs SP.
Outdoor Lebanon is held on the 20-24 June 2012, from
4:00 till 10:00 PM.
RYMCO SHOWCASES OUTSTANDING NEW MODELS AT 'OUTDOOR LEBANON'& BEIRUT MOTORCYCLE SHOW
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 18
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 21
INTERNATIONAL & REGIONAL NEWS
• 2013 Nissan GT-R offers more performance, stability,
refinement, and greater customisation
• 0-100km/h in 2.7sec*
• Nürburgring lap time of 7'18''6
• Usain Bolt, world's fastest man, to spearhead creation
of GT-R limited editions
Nissan GT-R, the legendary supercar, has been further
enhanced for the 2013 model year, offering more
performance, stability, refinement, and greater customization.
While continuing to be available in VVIP grade, further
levels of customization have been introduced with more to
follow including a unique example for Usain Bolt, the
world's fastest man and champion Olympic sprinter, brand
ambassador for the 315km/h GT-R and honorary “Director
of Excitement”.
“Nissan's brand philosophy of innovation and excitement
for everyone is expressed nowhere more clearly than in the
legendary GT-R,” said Samir Cherfan, Sales & Marketing
Director, Nissan Middle East. “Its ferocious power,
incredible handling and unmistakable styling are
unmatched by all but the most expensive hyper cars while
offering a degree of everyday usability which they cannot
come close to competing with. GT-R is unique in the
performance car world and the enhancements for this
model year underline our commitment to tirelessly enhance
this truly iconic nameplate.”
The 2013 model year Nissan GT-R 2013 received
evolutionary design and engineering enhancements based
on feedback acquired from competing in the 24-Hours of
Nürburgring race earlier this year. Subsequent time spent
testing the road car on the world's most demanding circuit
also fully tested GT-R's durability and reliability. “When we
go to Nürburgring, we test drive the car over 3000km -
about the same as driving 400,000km on public roads
twice a year,” said Nissan GT-R Chief Vehicle Engineer, and
the 'Godfather' of GT-R, Kazutoshi Mizuno. “We work on
specific issues such as heat or the forces acting on the car,
2013 NISSAN GT-R: PERFORMANCE EXCELLENCE REDEFINED
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 20
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 23
aiming to make a car road-capable in all global conditions.”
The 2013 model year is the fifth iteration from Mizuno, and
features improved engine response in the mid- and
upper-rpm rev range, increased body rigidity, and
specification changes to the shock absorbers, springs and
front stabilizer. As a result, the vehicle's overall
performance is dramatically increased, high-speed
stability improved and ride quality is more refined.
Additionally, a Premium Edition version will be offered that
features rich Semiarinin leather and custom-colored
interior as fashionable interior package, further enhancing
the sense of quality within the cabin.
It's this combination of staggering performance and style
which led Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man and
champion Olympic sprinter, to buy a Nissan GT-R.
The relationship between the multi-gold medal winning
athlete and Nissan has led to the recent announcement of
Bolt becoming brand ambassador for the 315km/h GT-R
and honorary “Director of Excitement” for the Nissan
brand.
The teaming of world's fastest man and superfast supercar
is set to continue with a unique gold-painted GT-R, signed
by the man himself, soon be auctioned to benefit the Usain
Bolt Foundation (http://usainbolt.com/foundation/).
However, this isn't the only GT-R he will inspire: a special
“Bolt GT-R” for his personal use is in the pipeline while Bolt
will also start work with Nissan product specialists on a
limited-edition version which can be ordered in markets
where GT-R is available (details will be announced at a later
stage).
Bolt and Nissan GT-R are central to the company's
ambitious “WHAT IF_” global brand campaign. Featuring
Nissan's iconic products and breakthrough technologies in
billboards at airports around the world, it forms part of the
company's Power 88 mid-term business plan - aimed at
capturing 8 per cent market share and 8 per cent
operating margins.
2013 Nissan GT-R goes on sale across the Middle East
from February 2013 onwards.
• Nissan to offer a specially gold-painted 2013* (MY14 for
US market) model year GT-R Premium Edition via
charity auction
• Auction begins November 22
• Nissan to produce only one 'Bolt Gold' GT-R
specifically for this online charity auction
• 100% of the charity auction's proceeds to go to the
Usain Bolt Foundation
Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, is taking his passion
for speed and performance, and his desire to help others,
and applying them to charity. A unique 2013 model year
“Bolt Gold” GT-R will go to the highest bidder in a global
online charity auction to be held on eBay from November
22 to December 2, 2012.
The highest bidder in the charity auction will become the
owner of the one-of-a-kind 'Bolt Gold' GT-R, a 2013 model
year Nissan GT-R painted the same gold color that left a
lasting impression on Olympic champion Usain Bolt at a
fan appreciation event hosted by Nissan in Yokohama on
October 11. All proceeds from the charity auction will
benefit the Usain Bolt Foundation, which was established
to support educational and cultural opportunities for
children and young people in Bolt's home country of
Jamaica.
Usain Bolt teamed up with Nissan in June 2012 as a brand
ambassador, and he recently became the company's
honorary “Director of Excitement” for the new Nissan
“What IF_” global brand campaign. As part of this
expanded partnership with Bolt, Nissan is preparing a
special 2013 model year Premium Edition GT-R, painted
'Bolt Gold', for the charity auction. The car will feature a
gold plate embossed with Bolt's signature and his
autograph.
It will be built to the performance specifications conforming
to regulations in the winning bidder's country of residence.
Nissan plans to deliver the car to the winner in March 2013.
The car will be auctioned on eBay Motors please see the
eBay Storefront page atwww.NissanGoldGTRAuction.com.
The online listing can be accessed by people in regions
around the world, and bidding will be open to residents in
countries where the Nissan GT-R is currently sold. Bidding
is set to begin at 12:00 GMT on Thursday, November 22,
and ends at 11:59 GMT on Sunday, December 2. Bids will
be limited to residents of countries where the GT-R is
currently sold. Please refer to the corresponding Nissan
Global Facebook page at:
www.nissan-global.com/EN/GoldGTR/ for more
information, including FAQs and applicable regions.
All proceeds from the online charity auction will go directly
to the Usain Bolt Foundation (http://usainbolt.com/founda-
tion/), established by Bolt to give back to his community
and help children in Jamaica.
“This project excites me because it brings together my
passion for speed and excellence, and my desire to help
kids and young people,” said Usain Bolt. “Thanks to
Nissan, all the revenue from the GT-R charity auction will be
donated to the Usain Bolt Foundation, which will go
directly to children to help develop their education and
allow them to participate in sports. It warms my heart to
help kids and young people who are in the starting blocks
of life, and it would be wonderful if someday this activity
leads to a 'Second Bolt.'”
'BOLT GOLD' NISSAN GT-R CHARITY AUCTION TO START NOV. 22
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 22
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 25
NISSAN BACKS GROUND-BREAKING DELTAWING PROJECT FOR LE MANS
Nissan DeltaWing experimental racecar to be powered by
Nissan 1.6-litre DIG-T engine technology in this genera-
tion's most revolutionary and exciting motorsport project
• Nissan leads efficiency charge as founding partner of
project
• Innovative new racing car to run at Le Mans with Nissan
technology
• Nissan DeltaWing will act as test bed for new road car
technologies
• Drive for efficiency will see car use half the fuel of its
conventional counterparts, bringing Nissan "PureDrive"
principles to the track
• Initial backers include racing legends Dan Gurney and
Don Panoz, concept designer Ben Bowlby and Michelin
• Special invitation from ACO to occupy 'Garage 56'
• Car to wear number '0' and run outside race classification
Nissan is aiming to change the face of endurance racing
forever by becoming a founding partner in the most radical
motorsport project of its time - Nissan DeltaWing.
A highly-advanced and hugely-efficient Nissan engine will
power the remarkable DeltaWing car as it races in anger for the
first time at the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours (16-17 June).
While Nissan DeltaWing will not be classified in the 2012 Le
Mans 24 Hours, the Company is looking to showcase the
pioneering technology that will show one potential
direction for the future of motorsport and will feed into the
research and development of future technologies, that filter
down to Nissan's road car product range.
A race-prepared 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, featuring
direct petrol injection and a turbocharger, will power Nissan
DeltaWing, which is half the weight and has half the
aerodynamic drag of a conventional racer.
With innovation at its core, Nissan was a natural partner to
be invited into the DeltaWing family by the existing group
of core partners - US-domiciled British designer Ben
Bowlby, American motorsport entrepreneur Don Panoz, the
All-American Racers organization of former US Formula 1
driver Dan Gurney, Duncan Dayton's two-time
championship-winning Highcroft Racing team and
Michelin Tyres North America.
The engine, badged DIG-T (Direct Injection Gasoline -
Turbocharged), is expected to produce around 300hp,
sufficient to give Nissan DeltaWing lap times between
LMP1 and LMP2 machines at Le Mans, despite having only
half the power of those conventional prototypes. It features
the same technology found in Nissan road cars, such as
the range-topping Nissan Juke DIG-T.
"As motor racing rulebooks have become tighter over time,
racing cars look more and more similar and the technology
used has had less and less relevance to road car
development. Nissan DeltaWing aims to change that and
we were an obvious choice to become part of the project,"
said Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor
Co., Ltd.
"But this is just the start of our involvement. Nissan
DeltaWing embodies a vast number of highly-innovative
ideas that we can learn from. At the same time, our
engineering resources and commitment to fuel efficiency
leadership via our PureDrive strategy will help develop
DeltaWing into a testbed of innovation for Nissan".
"This announcement gives Nissan the opportunity to
become part of a ground-breaking motorsport project and
one which could shape the future of the sport," he added.
Nissan DeltaWing concept originator and designer, Briton
Ben Bowlby, said: "Nissan has provided us with our first
choice engine. It's a spectacular piece. We've got the
engine of our dreams: it's the right weight, has the right
power and it's phenomenally efficient."
Nissan DeltaWing is unlike any other racing car currently on
track. The driver sits well back in the car, almost over the
rear axle and looks ahead down a long, narrow fuselage to
narrow twin front tyres, specially created for the car by tyre
partner Michelin. With a rear-mounted engine, the car has
INFINITI EMERG-E SCORES ANOTHER FIRST
Infiniti Emerg-e, the brand's first range-extended,
mid-engined electric sports car concept has won a
prestigious award from the German Design Council. The
concept car, launched at the Geneva Motor Show earlier
this year to global acclaim, was today announced as the
winner in the Concepts category of the Automotive Brand
Contest 2012, the international competition for automotive
brands and now a major industry event.
The award, which will be presented in a ceremony at the
Mondial de L'Automobile, Paris on 27th September,
recognises excellence and innovation in product design,
and celebrates the brand's fresh, fluent design approach,
expressed in the highly aerodynamic curves of the Infiniti
Emerg-e.
This is the latest milestone to be achieved by this highly
advanced sports car, physical proof of Infiniti's intention to
produce a bold halo model befitting the brand's promise of
Inspired Performance. In June, a fully functioning prototype
version of the Infiniti Emerg-e made its bold global debut at
the Goodwood Festival of Speed, driven by Red Bull
Racing Formula 1 driver, Mark Webber.
Infiniti Emerg-e provides an exciting glimpse into Infiniti's
future and features an array of exciting new technologies
that the brand will adopt in its quest to build dramatic and
sustainable high performance cars.
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 24
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 27
NISSAN POWER FOR A QUARTER OF LE MANS 24 HOURS FIELD
Nismo-produced Nissan units power more than half of the
competing cars, are Nissan's partner teams, Signatech
Nissan and Greaves Motorsport.
Among the drivers vying for LMP2 victory this year will be
two graduates of Nissan's unique GT Academy initiative,
which has made motorsport careers a reality for
Playstation 3 gamers; Lucas Ordonez - who will share his
car with ex-Formula 1 driver Martin Brundle - and second
GTA champion, Jordan Tresson.
Paul Willcox, Senior Vice President, Nissan in Europe, said:
"This year's Le Mans 24 Hours will be our biggest yet and
the Nissan DeltaWing shows the direction we are looking to
take with motorsport technology in the future. We are
already dominant in LMP2, where teams know that we can
help them win, while the DeltaWing project is the kind of
experiment in design and technology that only a company
as forward-thinking and bold as Nissan could get behind.
"As a test bed for future road car and motorsport
innovations, there is no greater, more publicly-scrutinised
laboratory than the Le Mans 24 Hours for the experiment
that DeltaWing represents, but the concept will prove that
the technology for a vastly more efficient future is viable
now, whether the car finishes the race or not."
The Nissan DeltaWing is the most revolutionary car to
appear in motorsport for a generation; the aim is to show
that it is possible to make huge efficiency savings by
downsizing and using a truly innovative aerodynamic
package.
Everything about DeltaWing is designed with efficiency in
mind - its unique shape has half the aerodynamic drag of a
conventional racer, while all parts - including the
downsized Nissan 1.6-litre DIG-Turbo engine - are smaller
and weigh much less than traditional Le Mans machines.
The car is so unique that it competes in the race outside
the regulations of Le Mans, wearing the number '0' and
running from "Garage 56", reserved exclusively for
experimental racers.
Nissan's involvement in LMP2 is similarly ground-breaking,
thanks to the presence of GT Academy graduates -
Spaniard, Ordonez and Frenchman, Tresson.
Winner of the first Nissan GT Academy in 2008, Ordonez
finished second in LMP2 at Le Mans in 2011 and this year
will race with the Greaves Motorsport team alongside 1990
Le Mans 24 Hour winner and former F1 racer, Martin
Brundle and his son Alex.
Also aiming to become the first gamer-turned-racer to win
Le Mans outright, Tresson - winner of the second GT
Academy in 2010 - joins 2011 Le Mans LMP2 winner,
Olivier Lombard and runner-up, Franck Mailleux, at the
Signatech team.
a strong rearward weight bias, which makes it highly
manoeuvrable, while its light weight and slippery shape
make it far more efficient.
Its innovative design and forward-looking technology have
encouraged the Automobile Club de l'Ouest (ACO), the
organisers of the famous Le Mans 24 Hours, to invite the
car to run in this year's race from 'Garage 56', the spot in
the pitlane reserved for experimental cars. As it doesn't
conform to any existing championship regulations, Nissan
DeltaWing will not be eligible to challenge for silverware
and will carry the race number '0'.
Nissan's expertise has been applied to the development of
the engine, in order to make it light and efficient enough to
prove the philosophy behind the concept can work in
'real-world' motor racing. The Company, always among the
first to embrace such radical ideas and surprising new
performance innovations, has promised to apply key
learnings from the experience to inform strategies for its
PureDrive aerodynamics and efficiency package for road
cars, as well as its overall research & development
programs.
Dan Gurney's legendary All American Racers organization
has built the DeltaWing. The new car continues the
California organisation's incredible legacy as a race car
constructor which has included 157 different cars
built - earning major victories in Formula 1, sportscars and
the Indianapolis 500.
Paul Willcox, Senior Vice President, Nissan in Europe, said:
"Nissan is a very innovative, forward-thinking company
prepared to take a risk or two. And exactly the same
applies to Nissan DeltaWing. Our involvement in the
project shows the boldness of Nissan from an engineering
and innovation mindset."
The first two Nissan DeltaWing drivers to be confirmed are
British Sportscar racer Marino Franchitti and Nissan's
reigning FIA GT1 World Champion Michael Krumm. The car
will make its first public demo laps at Sebring, Florida, at
12.30pm local time on Thursday, March 15.
Japanese manufacturer's engines will dominate round-the-
clock classic, powering more than half of all LMP2 cars
plus the experimental Nissan DeltaWing
• Nissan engines used by 25% of the field, more than any
other manufacturer
• Experimental Nissan DeltaWing - which aims to use half
the fuel of conventional racers - spearheads dominant
entry to 24 Hours
• More than half the LMP2 field - 13 out of 20 cars -
choose Nissan
Nissan will be the dominant force at this year's Le Mans 24
Hours, with a quarter of all entries running on Nismo-tuned
Nissan power.
Spearheading Nissan's dominant entry to the famous
endurance race, on June 16/17, will be the hugely
innovative, experimental racing car - the Nissan DeltaWing
- which aims to change the face of motor racing by
completing the Le Mans 24 Hours using half the fuel and
half the tyre material of a conventional LMP racer.
Leading the charge in the LMP2 class, in which
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 26
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 29
LOCAL NEWSNISSAN SEEKS ULTIMATE ‘NISSAN PATROL CHALLENGE’
Nissan Patrol Challenge competition offers prizes for
creating the ultimate test of the Hero of All Terrain
Having conquered everything the Middle East’s
environment can throw at it for over 50 years, Nissan is
encouraging the region’s people to create a new ‘Nissan
Patrol Challenge’ for the unstoppable Hero of All Terrain.
Nissan Patrol was designed specifically for the Middle East
following 13,265 hours of testing in the region before its
launch, and has since been confidently carrying its passen-
gers anywhere, anytime. Now Nissan’s online competition
is encouraging fans to design an innovative test for the
Patrol and give themselves a chance of winning a once-in-
a-lifetime trip to Japan or other great prizes.
“Meticulously honed for over 60 years and with a 55 year
presence in the Middle East, the Nissan Patrol enjoys a rich
heritage and passionate following,” said Samir Cherfan,
Sales and Marketing Director, Nissan Middle East. “With
‘Nissan Patrol Challenge’, we are offering the region’s
people the opportunity to share their great ideas of how
they’ve dreamt of using this iconic vehicle. ‘Nissan Patrol
Challenge’ is the next chapter in the Nissan Patrol’s
history in the Middle East and we look forward to sharing
in our fans’ vision of what that might look like.”
Those wishing to participate in the ‘Nissan Patrol
Challenge’ simply log on to the Nissan Patrol microsite at
www.NissanPatrol-me.com or Nissan Middle East’s
Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NissanME. From
here, they can access the application through which they
can tailor their own personal vision of the ultimate test of
the Nissan Patrol and submit a description of how it would
work. A panel of automotive, creative and marketing
experts will then decide on the top ten shortlist and the
ultimate winner. That lucky person will win a trip to Japan
and may even see their ‘Nissan Patrol Challenge’ come to
life*.
• Entry submission: 25th of November to 22nd of
December 2012
• Public voting for top 10 shortlisted ideas will be between
30th of December 2012 and 12th of January 2013
• First prize for the Nissan Patrol Challenge winner will be
a complimentary trip to Japan for two persons – the
complimentary trip includes hotel accommodation
(Nissan’s selection) for up to five nights, and special
visits to Nissan’s manufacturing plants
• The top ten shortlisted applicants will enjoy a Nissan
Patrol weekend test drive
• The first 200 applicants will receive gifts from
Nissan Middle East
* The viability and practicality of choosing the winning
Nissan Patrol Challenge will be assessed solely at the
discretion of Nissan Middle East
Less than a year since its introduction to the region, the all-new Infiniti JX has been awarded as the 'SUV of theyear' by BBC TopGear Middle East. Recognised by thepopular automotive magazine for its combination of luxury,versatility and value, the Infiniti JX has witnessed an overwhelming response since its introduction to the MiddleEast in August 2012.
BBC TopGear Middle East is based on Britain's top-sellingcar magazine which is packed with reviews of what's newfrom hot hatches to people carriers, exclusive world-firstfeatures, the fastest super cars, road tests and essentialprice guides. The regional version of BBC TopGear is written and produced in Dubai and is distributed acrossMiddle East markets.
“Since its launch in the Middle East, the Infiniti JX has revolutionised the crossover segment with its seductivestyling, break-through world first technologies, and interiorflexibility and roominess,” said Juergen Schmitz, GeneralManager, Infiniti in the Middle East. “It is an honour to beawarded “SUV of the Year” by BBC TopGear Middle East,a name synonymous with the highest levels of automotivemedia, and is a true indication of the success this modelhas seen in the region.”
“The Infiniti JX35 is BBC TopGear Middle East's SUV of theyear because it manages to combine luxury, versatility, andgreat value under one bonnet in a way that is new (andexciting) in its segment. Everyone here at our organisationadmires the car, and we're proud to award it SUV of theyear,” said Adel Habib, Managing Director of BBC TopGearEnglish Edition for the Middle East.
Key standard features of the Infiniti JX include:
• Generous second and third row legroom to accommodate adults in comfort• Unique access to third row without removing a second row child seat • 3.5-litre DOHC V6 engine and sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) • 20-inch split five-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels • Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with eight-inchWVGA color touch-screen display• Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection andfront and rear sonar sensors• 13-speaker Bose® 2-channel Premium Sound system,including subwoofers, AM/FM radio, single in-dash
• CD/DVD reader with MP3 playback capability and speed-sensitive volume control
Key available features of the Infiniti JX include:
• World's first Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system - the latest of nine technologies that comprise the“All-around Safety Shield” of the new JX • Remote Engine Start • Tri-zone entertainment system featuring dual seven-inchcolour monitors for multimedia video playback (rear, frontheadrest mounted) • Advanced Climate Control System with auto-recirculation,Plasmacluster™ air purifier and Grape Polyphenol Filter • Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range) • Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane DeparturePrevention (LDP) • Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts• 15-speaker Bose® Cabin Surround® Sound system,single in-dash CD/DVD reader with MP3 compatibility and speed-sensitive volume control • Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system • Blind Spot Intervention™ system
“The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, as Infiniti's first venture intothe three-row luxury crossover segment, is true to both theInfiniti brand and to Infiniti design,” concluded Schmitz.“Infiniti has always been about standing out from thecrowd, combining intelligent technology, refined performance, and sophisticated craftsmanship. That'sexactly what this new JX achieves.”
INFINITI JX AWARDED 'SUV OF THE YEAR'
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 28
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 31
NISSAN SETS GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ TITLE AT DUBAIINTERNATIONAL FOR THE LARGEST ILLUMINATED INDOOR ADVERTISING SIGN
Nissan Sets Guinness World Records™ title at Dubai
International for the Largest Illuminated Indoor Advertising
Sign
• Nissan shares the Guinness World Records title with
Dubai International
• HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum receives the
Guinness World Records certificate on behalf of Dubai
Airports
Nissan's powerful and global brand campaign has set a
new Guinness World Records achievement at Dubai
International. Today, Mr. Paul O'Neill, vice-president of
Guinness World Records, officially recognised Nissan's
backlit indoor advertising sign as the largest of its type in
the world. O'Neill presented Nissan, represented by Roel
De-Vries, Global Marketing vice president and Atsuo
Kosaka, managing director of Nissan Middle East, with the
Guinness World Records certificate. In order to express its
thanks for its invaluable support, Nissan shared this award
with Dubai Airports. A specially commissioned commemo-
rative plaque of the record was offered to His Highness
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the
Department of Civil Aviation and Chairman of Dubai
Airports.
“It felt natural for Nissan to choose Dubai International, one
of the largest and most important airports in the world, as
of one of the key locations for the deployment of our glob-
al brand campaign. Nissan feels proud to have achieved a
world record in Dubai, the city of so many world records.
His Highness' support was decisive in the success of this
project,” commented Trevor Mann, Nissan executive vice
president and chairman of the Management Committee for
the Africa Middle East, India and European region
“It is an honour to have His Highness with us today as
Nissan celebrates another landmark day in the Middle
East,” said Atsuo Kosaka. “When we began this project,
we were bold enough to ask ourselves, 'what if we can turn
our advertising at Dubai International into a world record?'.
Today we see the result of that commitment as we once
again deliver 'Innovation that Excites' into everything we
do in the Middle East region.”
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said:
“I congratulate Nissan for its achievement at Dubai
International. Dubai has long been the focus for interna-
tional enterprise in the Middle East and Nissan's selection
of our airport as part of a global campaign is continued evi-
dence of the growing business importance of the emirate.
We look forward to increasing commercial activity and
innovative campaigns as our economy grows into the
future.”
Eugene Barry, SVP Commercial at Dubai Airports com-
mented: “This project mirrors our own ambitions at Dubai
Airports. With more than 57 million people passing through
the world's third-busiest airport last year, Dubai
International is the perfect location for this record-breaking
initiative, and we are delighted that Nissan has chosen our
airport to showcase their brand to a global audience."
Nissan's global brand campaign will reach 100% of the
passengers of Terminal 1 and 3, through more than 74
touch points at Dubai International.
Associated with this Guinness World Records are JC
Decaux, the concessionaire of Dubai International and
Mindshare, Nissan's media buying agency for the Middle
East.
“This remarkable campaign was an exciting tremendous
challenge for our teams. An efficient and well-coordinated
2013 NISSAN 370Z PRICING PUTS STYLE, PERFORMANCE AND POWER WITHIN YOUR REACH
RYMCO has announced today revised pricing for the 370Z
Coupe and 370 Roadster, putting it within the reach of
even more enthusiasts. The choice of connoisseurs for
generationswith its blend of great handling, performance
and agility,the 2013model year 370Z range will start from a
very accessible $55,000 excluding VAT in Lebanon - a full
30% more affordable.The significant adjustment in 370Z’s
retail price is perfectly timed to take advantage of
thegrowth in the sportscar segment which saw sales rise
by20% in 2012 in the Gulf Region.
Commenting on the announcement, Fayez Rasamny,
Chairman of RYMCO said: “The Nissan 370Z is famous
forits blend of style and driver appeal, in keeping with its
iconic ‘Z’ DNA. This award winning sports car has always
led the class in performance terms, now its price gives it
even greater appeal. Combined with its fresh innovations
for the 2013 model year, the excitement of owning a 370Z
is open to a broader audience.”
The 2013 Nissan 370Z offers an unmatched balance of
performance, style, and technology, and further benefits
from a refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime
running lights. Equipped with a 328-horsepower 3.7-litre
engine, choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or
close-ratio 6-speed manual with available SynchroRev
Match®, the list of cutting edge technology also includes
4-wheel vented disc brakes.Other available technology
features include Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System
and standard Nissan Intelligent Key®.
Enhancements for the 2013 model year 370Z Coupe
include a new 19-inch wheel design and two exciting new
colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue.
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 30
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 33
INFINITI READING SIGNS SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH SWANSEA CITY
Rymco UK signed a deal between its Infiniti Reading dealership and Premier Leaguefootball club Swansea City to become its official vehicle supplier.
“Infiniti Centre Reading” announced that they have
become the official car supplier of Premier League side
Swansea City UK.
Infiniti Reading Centre will be handing the first supply of
Infiniti cars to the club’s manager Michael Laudrup and his
assistant Erik Larsen. At a later stage more vehicles will be
delivered for the use of team staff, coaches and scouts.
Known as everyone's second favorite team, due to their
exciting style of football, the arrangement with RYMCO UK
to be their main vehicle supplier for Premier League side
Swansea City provides Infiniti a great opportunity to raise
awareness of the relatively new Premium brand to the UK.
Paul Watts-Barnes, Head of Corporate Sales for RYMCO
UK through Infiniti Centre Reading and Piccadilly, who has
been working closely with Swansea City FC said, "From
what started as a quick chat between RYMCO UK and the
Club has now grown into providing a steady supply of
Infiniti models to the mangers and staff of the football club.
Both clubs have similar ambitions and it will be exciting to
see how each of us develops over the next few years."
"I am pleased to be associated with Infiniti, like us they are
daring to be different, while at the same time taking on the
big boys. Their luxury performance range of cars allows us
to stand out from the crowd, making us unlike any other
Premiership club, something we are constantly trying to
do," said Swansea City FC Chairman Huw Jenkins.
Perfect partnerships are made when both parties share
similar goals and are shooting in the same direction.
Swansea City Football club and Infiniti both perform in their
equivalent Premium divisions, have their own unique style
and are up against the larger and more established brands
that tend to dominate the news and headlines.
Infiniti is planning to open new sites in Bristol, Belfast,
Newcastle, Nottingham and Cambridge. The network currently
has sites open in Glasgow, Leeds, Stockport, Hull, London
and Reading.
2013 NISSAN ALTIMA EARNS "TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS" FROM IIHS
The 2013 Nissan Altima added another award to its trophy
case with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
"Top Safety Pick Plus" designation, which recognizes pas-
senger vehicles for excellent performance in five passenger
safety tests.
Starting with 2013 models, IIHS introduced more stringent
criteria and requirements to include the "Top Safety Pick"
front, side, rollover and rear crash tests, as well as the
newly added small overlap frontal test. The Altima scored
well for each of these tests, adding the "Top Safety Pick
Plus" award to the five-star safety rating it received in
September from the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration's New Car Assessment Program.
“Earning this top safety award proves Nissan's success in
this segment. The Altima 2013 is innovatively designed and
is engineered with top safety features such as the Safety
Shield technologies. “Samir Cherfan, Sales & Marketing
Director, Nissan Middle East said.
The Nissan Altima comes equipped with a variety of stan-
dard safety features, including the Nissan Advanced Air
Bag System, driver and front-passenger seat-mounted
side-impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain
side-impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic
Control, 3-point ALR/ELR seat belt system, LATCH System
(Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), zone body con-
struction with front and rear crumple zones and Tire
Pressure Monitoring System with Easy Fill Tire Alert, which
sounds the car horn to notify a person filling a tire with air
when the recommended tire pressure has been reached.
Available features include next-generation Safety Shield
technologies, including Blind Spot Warning, Lane
Departure Warning and Moving Object Detection systems
using an innovative single rear camera.
execution allowed us to give life to this fascinating project
in 9 months, which required all our JCDecaux expertise to
overcome various technical obstacles. To be part of this
unprecedented project that resulted in a world record for
Nissan and Dubai International, is emblematic of our
fundamental mission: adding value to our partners and
enhancing the passenger experience through creativity and
innovation,” said Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the
Executive Board and Co-CEO of JCDecaux.
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 32
GT Academy is in collaboration between PlayStation® and
Nissan that uses the virtual world of the Gran Turismo®
game to unearth real-world racing talent. Now in its fourth
year, GT Academy has been expanded to include separate
competitions in Germany, USA, Russia as well as the
traditional pan-European competition.
From racing on their PS3, the fastest Gran Turismo gamers
can progress to national or regional Finals and if good
enough onto Race Camp to compete against the best
gamers to see who can make the jump from Virtual to
Reality.
Previous winners of GT Academy are now regular racing
drivers. In 2012 Lucas Ordoñez (Spain, winner in 2008) is
contesting the European Le Mans Series and Le Mans 24
Hours in the Greaves Motorsport Nissan-powered LMP2
car; Jordan Tresson (France, winner in 2010) is contesting
the FIA World Endurance Championship and Le Mans 24
Hours in the Signatech Nissan LMP2 car; Jann
Mardenborough (UK, winner in 2011) is racing a Nissan
GT-R GT3 in the Blancpain Endurance Series
A live event, dedicated GT Academy simulator pods
allowed contestants to record their fastest time - the
quickest being guaranteed a place in the next selection
round. These took place in all participating countries
(Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon,
Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates)
RYMCO, Nissan’s exclusive dealer in Lebanon decided to
give the opportunity to Lebanese Nissan fans to become
real race drivers. Fans gathered from all across the country
to witness “GT Academy Race Camp” event happening for
the first time in Lebanon, in ABC Ashrafieh early September.
Haitham el Fakhoury was the lucky winner who have beaten
all other competitors and gained qualifications.
Amongst The fastest 23 Haitham was invited to attend the
Middle East regional final in Dubai (9 and 10 January 2013).
Here their gaming, fitness and racing abilities were
assessed along with their ability to handle the media – a
key requirement of a racing driver – and the group was
shortlisted to an elite of just eight who went on to the
‘International Race Camp’ at Silverstone.
Among The eight GT Academy Middle East qualifiers for
the ‘International Race Camp’ at Silverstone is: Haitham El
Fakhouri the only Lebanese that was able to qualify and will
be Representing his country during the Race Camp.
At this final and crucial stage to be held in March,
contestants from the Middle East will spend a week in
competition with the South African finalists at the wheel of
a variety of Nissan cars for the chance to win GT Academy
and go on to become a professional racing driver.
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 35
STAR ACADEMY WINNERS GET BRAND NEW JUKES FROM NISSAN
Nissan Middle East has delivered two brand new Juke
crossover SUVs to winners from last year's hit pan-Arab
reality TV show Star Academy. The first was delivered to
Nesma Mahgoub of Egypt, winner of the overall Star
Academy contest, while the second went to Gilbert Simon
of Lebanon for winning the 'Jukeband' competition to
create a soundtrack for the first Juke TV commercial. The
Juke, a compact SUV with sports car styling, combines
attitude, modish style and energy with a mischievous
sense of fun. Both Gilbert and Nesma have now received
their brand new Jukes from Nissan, with Nesma handed
the first Juke to arrive in Egypt following the vehicle's
launch in the country.
“Participating in the Star Academy experience was
fantastic for us here at Nissan,” said Abdulilah Wazni,
Senior Marketing Manager for SUV & Crossover segment,
Nissan Middle East. “The Jukeband competition was
intense, and very fitting of the Juke itself, which continues
Nissan's ambition to create vehicles that inspire and
reward owners and onlookers alike. The Juke sits
comfortably in many classes of vehicle - SUV, hatchback
and sports car - without compromising practicality,
performance or character.”
Nesma Mahgoub said: “Winning Star Academy was one of
the most exciting and important moments of my life, and
now, along with all the other great things it's brought me, I
get to enjoy driving this awesome new Juke. I can't wait to
take it for a spin!”
The Juke is the world's first small Crossover, and follows in
the tracks of Murano - the world's first ever Crossover -
and the ultra successful Qashqai. Together, they cement
Nissan's place as King of the Crossovers.
Like its bigger brothers, the Juke is a distinctive
combination of SUV toughness and sporting style.
Conceived to inject some masculinity and dynamism into
the small car market, Juke combines a number of seeming
contradictions into its highly individual lines. From a design
standpoint, the lower portion of Juke is pure SUV.
It combines chunky wheels, wide tyres, extended ground
clearance and a robust stance with a top portion that is unadul-
terated sports car, with a high waistline, slim
visor-like side glass graphics and a coupé-style falling roofline.
The coupé effect is further underlined by the rear doors which
have their handles hidden in the frame of the door.
GT ACADEMY IS IN COLLABORATION BETWEEN PLAYSTATION AND NISSAN
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 34
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 37
DIGITAL NEWS
With the ever-increasing expansion of the digital world,
RYMCO has come to understand the importance of an
online digital community, therefore embedding this move
within its upcoming media and marketing strategy.
Today, we are fully committed to the continuous evolution
of our digital presence and our effective involvement with
our fan base. Throughout the years, we have been very
active on Facebook and other digital mediums through the
relevant allocation of a budget for every campaign.
To date, we have gathered more than 28,000 fans on
RYMCO’s Facebook page. Thanks to this platform,
consumers have been freely sharing their comments and
suggestions, which are always taken into consideration
through the appropriate follow-up.
This number of online followers was only achieved through
constant updates of our product portfolio and the regular
issuing of interesting content.
Our deployment has also covered various activations
triggering online interaction, with applications such as the
“GT-Academy Competition”, “MICRA on the Move”, and
“Make it with MICRA”.
With many new projects in the pipeline, RYMCO thanks all
its Facebook users for their encouragement and support.
AFTERSALES NEWS
Rasamny Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO),
exclusive dealer of NISSAN MOTORS in Lebanon has
conducted the NISAC, Nissan International Service Advisor
Contest, and the NISTEC, Nissan International Service
Technical Contest, which is a yearly contest reflecting the
magnificent skill of the aftersales service advisors and
technicians.
According to a written test; technicians are enrolled to
show outstanding skills in technical knowledge, service
safety and work under pressure. Electrical, Diagnostic and
Mechanical problems are intentionally done on cars; the
technicians have to solve the problems following service
manuals procedure within a strict time constraint.
To prevent any biased results and to have feasible score
the juries are engineering graduates invited from USJ
(University of Saint Joseph).
RYMCO in-house technical and nontechnical trainer is
Engineer Leila Kantar she trains the technicians through
the N-STEP program and the frontline personnel under the
N-SAP curriculum.
The N_STEP, Nissan Technical education Program, is
segmented into engine, chassis and electrical, and in each
segment the technicians learns the car mechanics in Level
I and escalade in learning to get basic engineering theories
in Level III. The N-SAP, Nissan Service Advisor Program
trains the advisor to ensure a transparent, graceful and
professional interaction with customer; based on objective
and subjective results, outstanding service advisors will be
chosen for MSA, Master Service Advisor program.
Our 2012 National NISTEC winner is Mr. Raja Bou Orm,
currently he is being trained to participate in the Regional
NISTEC held in Dubai and base on his results he may
participate in the Global NISTEC contest held in Japan. In
the Regional NISTEC, participants are from GCC and
LEVANT while the participants of the global NISTEC are
from the entire world having won their Regional NISTEC.
Previously, RYMCO participated in the Global NISTEC and
we are sure that Raja has all the potential and skills to make
RYMCO reach another time the global NISTEC in Japan.
Mr. Fadi Younis, aftersales managing director; said that
Rasamny Younis Motor Co. is a customer oriented
automobile company. Following this intensive training
program our service team will have all the skills and
knowledge to maintain our regional leadership in F1 (Fix It
Right First Time) enabling us to maintain our competitive
edge in the CSI scores (Customer Satisfaction Index).
RASAMNY YOUNIS MOTOR CO. HOLDS THE 2012 NISSAN INTERNATIONALSERVICE TECHNICAL CONTEST (NISTEC) AND NISSAN SERVICE ADVISORCONTEST (NISAC).
Rymco newsletter 2013 3/7/13 4:32 PM Page 36
Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 39
During the Annual Employee Dinner that took place at
Bourj Al Hamam Broumana, the Awards of the year were
announced:
Awards:
• Staff Function of the year
Samer El Murr
• Best Promotion of the year
Bilal Ismail
• Support Staff Function of the year
Fadi Hallal
• Line Function of the year
Imad Al Hassanieh
• Team of the year Call Center – Operators
• Salesperson of the year
Alain Mechantaf
• High Performance of the year
Nada Khatoun
• Team Leader of the year (2 awards)
Moufid Al Kaasamany
Ahmad Al Mohammad
• Service Advisor of the year
Joseph Sawaya
• Technician of the year Service Department
Riad Al Aridi
• Technician of the year Body
and Paint Department
Khalil Al Mosmar
• Support Staff Function of the year
Service Department
Oussama Mattar
• What the Funk! Creative Thinking
Jade Ayoub
• Most Successful Event of the year
Lotus Lebanon
Rana Eyamie
RYMCO ANNUAL EMPLOYEE DINNER
YEAR AWARD PRESENTED TO DESCRIPTION FROM LOCATION
2012 SALESPERFORMANCE
RASAMNYYOUNIS MOTORCO
IN RECOGNITIONOF YOUR COMPANY CARLOAN
BYBLOSBANK
MR. DIBOFFICE
RYMCO EMPLOYEES HAD TWO REASONS TO CELEBRATE DURING THE ENDOF YEAR GATHERING, A CELEBRATION OF THE HOLIDAYS AND LEADING TOAN OUTSTANDING 1,000 UNITS OF SALES IN THE MONTH OF DECEMBER!!
AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
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Rymco Corporate Newsletter | 41
NISSAN PATHFINDER 2013
VisibilityBody colored MirrorsManual Foldable electric mirrorsHallogen HeadlampAutomatic Headlights (with front wiper / linked / twilight detection)Side turn signal lamp
CockpitLeather Steering wheel with anti-bacterial specsPower steering speed sensorManual Tilt and telescopic SteeringAudio + Cruise control + Bluetooth + meter displayLeather shift knob with chromePower windows with one touch auto up/down (driver & Passenger)/Pinch preventAuto lock systemIntelligent keyless entry with push start engineElectrical trunk openerDrive computerOutside temperature displayFront sun visors with illuminationFront armrest Roof console with sunglass holder / map light and microphone10 Cup holders / 6 Bottle holder Front & Rear Ashtray4 Power outletsFront Cigar Lighter
SeatsCloth with double stitch Head restraintsPower seats Driver (8 way Slide/reclining/lifter) – Manual Passenger
Manual Lumber supportFoldable 2nd and 3rd row seats 60/40
Audio & DisplayRadio CD / MP3 / DVDUSB Port / I-pod and Seed sensitive6 Speakers / LCD 7inch /2GB Music server
ExteriorFront power sunroof with rear roof glass with sunshadeBody colored bumpersFront chrome grillFront spoiler / rear roof spoilerRoof rails18” Alloy wheels
SafetyAntitheft Sytem (Alarm & Immobilizer)ABS/ EBD /BATraction controlVDC With cancel switchHigh mounting stop lampSeatbelt reminder driverTire pressure monitor (Warning and 4 wheel monitor)Front and rear ventilated discsDriver & Passenger airbagsFront Seats Belts with pre-tensioners and load limiter
Tires and wheelsP235/65 R18
Air ConditionFront & Rear Full auto A/C with ventilations 2nd & 3rd Row
P42K Pathfinder MY 20136 Cyl 3.5L CVT Transmission
Intelligent 4x4 Dial Switch4WD Base
Start of Sales: March 2013
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1.6 L & 1.8L 16V 4cyl.• Electrical mirrors• Power windows • Center Console for rear ventilation AC• Anti-theft device with immobilizer • Power Steering (Speed sensor & Electrical)• CD MP3 AM/FM & AUX & RDS – with I-pod
connectivity & USB• Front head lamp clear colored with
LED signature line• Driver & Passenger Airbags• ABS / EBD / Brake assist• Intelligent key• Push Start Button • Rear Parking Sensor
• Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
• Displacement 296 cm3 • Tire, front 110/70-17 M/C 54S• Tire, rear 140/70-17 M/C 66S• Brakes, front Single 290 mm petal disc
single balanced actuation dual-pistonsingle point
• Brakes, rear Single 220 mm petal discCaliper Dual-piston
• Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,015 mm x 715 mm x 1,110 mm
• Seat height 785 mm• Fuel capacity 17 litres• Curb Mass 172 kg / 174 kg (ABS)• Maximum power {39 PS} / 11,000 rpm• Maximum torque 27.0 N.m / 10,000 rpm
Engine: 2.5 Liter; V6; 218 HP • 7-Speed Automatic transmission with paddle shifters • Infiniti Intelligent Key for keyless entry & Push
Button Ignition • 7-inch colour LCD for audio, climate control, fuel
economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems
• Adaptive Xenon headlights • RearView Monitor • Ten-speaker Bose® Premium Audio System
with AM/FM, 1DVD/ CD(MP3,WMA) • USB & AUX input • Automatic Temperature Control system with
microfiltration • Front and rear parking sensors • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System • 6 Airbags • 18 inch alloy rims
NISSAN SENTRA 2013Start of Sales: February 2013
INFINITI G25 2013Start of Sales: January 2013
INFINITI JX 2013Start of Sales: April 2013
KAWASAKI NINJA 300Start of sales: April 2013
Engine: 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 engine• Power: 265 hp @ 6,400 rpm• Torque: 34.2 kg-m @ 4,400 rpm• Alloy Wheels: 20 x 7.5-inch,
split 5-spoke aluminum• Tires: 235/55R20 all-season tires• Overall Height: 1,722 mm• Overall Length: 4,989 mm• Overall Width: 1,961 mm• Xenon Adaptive Front Lighting System• Power tailgate with tailgate closing assist
(soft-close)• Front & Rear parking sensors • Power tilt and slide glass front sunroof
with anti-pinch & Rear Moonroof• Rain Sensor• Remote Engine Start• Around view monitor 360° with predictive
course lines (4 cameras)• Bluetooth Hands free phone• Bose Audio system, 1CD, 9 GB Music server,
MP3 - 15 speakers• Rear entertainment sys. (9 inch monitor, DVD,
remote control & 2 head phones)• Intelligent Key with illuminated Push Engine Start• I-POD connection through USB
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ABOUT RYMCO:Rasamny-Younis Motor Company S.A.L. (RYMCO) is a joint stock company, ISO certified 9001:2008,was established in 1957 in Lebanon and is the only automotive dealer to be listed on the Beirut StockExchange since 1998. RYMCO is one of the leading vehicle retail dealerships in Lebanon where itholds majority market share in the new vehicle retail industry, and commands a considerable portionof the used vehicle market. RYMCO operates a chain of independent showrooms and stores, abonded warehouse as well as state-of-the-art servicing and maintenance facilities. The companyhas an automotive dealership arrangement with auto manufacturers in the US, Japan, Europe andChina that include the likes of automotive giants Nissan Motors (Nissan, Infiniti), GM vehicles (GMC),Renault trucks, UD Trucks, and Kawasaki under the Leisure division. RYMCO marine is another unitwithin the RYMCO operations specialized in the servicing of boats under the brand name of RYMCOMarine. In 2009, RYMCO UK was granted the right to distribute the Infiniti brand of cars in London. It willcover distribution for the area through three SSS IREDI facilities in Reading, Chiswick and Hatfield;along with a boutique in the centre of London in Piccadilly.
RYMCO SAL holds also the majority of the shareholding of free zone companies in Syria which mainactivity is the importation of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles and the storage of these vehicles in the freezone areas, for the purpose of reselling them to the Syrian market (mainly to a Syrian company owningthe exclusive distribution for Nissan cars in Syria.)
RYMCOMs. Rana Eyamie,Senior Brand ExecutiveTel: +961 1 273333 Fax: +961 1 274311Email: [email protected]
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE LOG ON TO WWW.RYMCO.COM OR CONTACT:
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