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RIYADH: The Saudi automotive market is welcoming a new generation of hybrid vehicles equipped with advanced Range-Extended Electric Vehicle technology. 

Although this technology has previously been introduced in the Kingdom, the latest models showcased at the EV Auto Show Riyadh 2025 feature significant upgrades in efficiency, performance, and driving range.

Among the standout participants was Rox Motors, a fast-growing Chinese automaker that unveiled its latest hybrid model — the Adamas — featuring an evolved version of REEV technology.

Ahmed Al-Obaidi, CEO of Rox KSA,  explained that the system combines the practicality of traditional fuel with the efficiency of electric power.

“Our REEV technology allows gasoline to generate electricity directly,” Al-Obaidi said. “Part of the fuel powers a generator that charges the battery, while another portion goes into the extender, which increases the electric output and provides power to the car. 

“This hybrid approach is a fast way to combine electric and gas technology — ideal for the Saudi market.” 

Al-Obaidi added that while REEV technology is not entirely new to ��������, Rox’s version introduces smarter energy conversion systems and faster charging efficiency, giving drivers better performance in both city and long-distance driving conditions. 

The company expects its hybrid vehicles to find strong demand locally, especially as Saudi consumers transition toward sustainable mobility solutions.

Another highlight of the show came from Icaur, a sub-brand under Chery Group, which revealed its new V27 model — also built on the latest REEV platform. George Xi, Icaur’s country director in ��������, said the car offers an impressive 800 km of driving range and reduces fuel consumption by nearly half compared with conventional engines.

“Pure battery EVs are not always ideal for high-temperature environments,” Xi explained. “Our REEV technology provides a better solution for the Saudi market — longer range, lower oil use, and reliable performance even in extreme weather.” 

Muhammad Daniyal Khan, head of brand and marketing for �������� at Icaur,  elaborated that the V27 operates using two motors — one that converts gasoline into electricity to charge the battery and another that drives the car using that stored energy. The result is a smooth, quiet, and powerful driving experience with minimal reliance on external charging infrastructure.

Icaur also announced that the V27 will officially launch in February 2026, with online pre-orders opening by the end of November. Customers will be able to reserve their cars directly through the company’s website, with deliveries scheduled following the official release.

The participation of Rox Motors and Icaur at this year’s EV Auto Show reflects ��������’s growing role in the global shift toward hybrid and electric mobility. 

With the introduction of these next-generation REEV vehicles, the Kingdom continues to move closer to its Vision 2030 goals of promoting cleaner, more efficient, and technologically advanced transportation solutions tailored to local needs.

RIYADH: Finland sees untapped potential in commercial opportunities in ��������, according to the European country’s Minister of Economic Affairs Sakari Puisto.

Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the 9th Future Investment Initiative, the minister referenced numerous giga-projects and Expo 2030 as areas of interest.

Puisto highlighted that Finnish firms have consistently been present in the Kingdom for many years, explaining that most recently Kone — a company specializing in elevators — won the bid for the Jeddah Tower.

“We have had good business relations with Finnish companies being in �������� for a long time,” Puisto told Arab News, adding that “there is a lot of untapped commercial potential.”

Puisto made his first visit to the Kingdom to speak on a ministerial panel during FII9, and he also planned to hold multiple sideline meetings to strengthen Saudi-Finnish cooperation, meeting with the ministers of commerce, industry, energy, sports, economy and planning.

Discussing bilateral ties and historic relations between �������� and Finland, Puisto described how the two countries have had long-standing diplomatic relations, adding that there is room to increase cooperation, especially under Vision 2030 projects.

“We see a lot of potential here with Vision 2030 by his Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and that is all of the projects associated with that for instance, Neom, Expo 2030,” Puisto detailed. 

As a part of his visit, the minister visited the Expo 2030 offices, commenting: “It was a very, very welcoming, open experience. We were there this morning and met with the leadership, and they showed the master plan.”

He added: “First of all, it’s very impressive, like the districts how they planned it. And they are not only planning for the expo itself, but also transforming it afterward into a global village.” 

The event will provide many “possibilities for tech solutions, for instance, how to manage the private network, the waste management, or like showcasing for the future technologies, recycling, environmentally friendly technologies,” the minister said.

“They were very open for the discussions, and I think we impressed them with our company portfolio,” he added. 

Reflecting on his perception of the Kingdom, Puisto said: “I remember in the previous session, my first session in the parliament, I realized that there’s a lot of things going on in �������� and lots of modernization. �������� is having a huge urban development.” 

Promoting Finnish businesses where he sees areas of potential collaboration is one of his commitments, and he said �������� is “certainly one of the top, top picks” in this regard. 

The minister also highlighted the various tech solutions offered by Finnish companies, setting out how they could help ��������.

“Today, I met with the Expo leadership, and they said that Expo 2030 foresight is essential, because it’s five years from now, essentially. So, much of the technology of today will be outdated by then. So, they need to look forward,” he said, adding: “I think we have a good sort of business opportunities there.”

During a reception held in the embassy in honor of the minister’s visit, Ambassador of Finland to �������� Anu-Eerika Viljanen delivered the opening remarks highlighting the areas of commercial cooperation between the two countries.

“Our strengths complement one another so nicely. Finland’s expertise in sectors such as innovation, technology, and circular economy meets ��������’s bold and forward-looking Vision 2030,” Viljanen told Arab News.

“It is a vision that aligns closely also with Finland’s aspirations, and I am proud to say that Finland and Finnish companies eagerly continue to partner with you and contribute to the success of your country,” the ambassador added.