Latest news with #Aurus
ArabGT
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
Meet Aurus: Russia's Answer to Rolls-Royce Soon Built in Saudi Arabia
In a recent interview with Russia's TASS news agency, Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Al-Khorayef, revealed the Kingdom's openness to international automotive brands interested in establishing production lines within Saudi Arabia. 'We are working toward producing more than 300,000 vehicles locally, which accounts for nearly 40% of the market,' the minister stated, adding that Saudi Arabia welcomes any brand seeking to set up localized manufacturing operations. Among the names drawing particular attention is Aurus, the Russian luxury carmaker known for crafting the official presidential vehicle used by President Vladimir Putin. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in assembling Aurus vehicles domestically—part of the country's broader efforts to develop its automotive industry and localize production capabilities. From State Limousines to Civilian Icons Founded in 2018, Aurus Motors began as a state-backed initiative to develop a new fleet of official motorcade vehicles for the Russian presidency, replacing the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard. The brand debuted its flagship sedan, the Aurus Senat, for civilian use in May 2021. According to the automaker, 115 units were sold in 2023, and facelift versions are scheduled for 2026 and 2030. A refreshed model was already delivered to President Putin in 2024. The name 'Aurus' combines the Latin word aurum (meaning gold) or aura with 'Rus,' symbolizing a blend of prestige and Russian heritage. A National Project with Global Ambitions Aurus's development began in 2013 through NAMI, the Central Scientific Research Automobile and Automotive Engines Institute, with the goal of crafting a fully homegrown Russian state limousine. In 2018, the Aurus Kortezh line was officially introduced, comprising the Senat sedan and limousine, the Arsenal van, and the Komendant SUV—each named after towers of the Kremlin. In 2019, Abu Dhabi-based Tawazun Holding acquired a 36% stake in Aurus Motors for $124 million, with plans to distribute the vehicles across the Middle East. Civilian production began in May 2021 at the Ford Sollers plant in Yelabuga, Tatarstan, which also produces the Russian-market Ford Transit. Launch pricing started at approximately 18 million rubles (around $243,000), with the limited launch edition priced at 22 million rubles (about $297,000). Luxury Meets Performance: Aurus Lineup As of today, the Aurus lineup includes four main models: the standard Senat sedan, a limousine variant, an extended-wheelbase edition, and the Komendant SUV. Armored versions are also available to meet the needs of dignitaries and VIP clients. The Komendant SUV is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It delivers 598 horsepower, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 220 km/h. It measures 5380 mm in length, 2004 mm in width, 1819 mm in height, and weighs 3175 kg, with a ground clearance of 230 mm. The Senat shares the same hybrid V8 setup but offers slightly higher performance, with a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. Its dimensions are 5632 mm in length, 2020 mm in width, and 1689 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 200 mm and curb weight of 3235 kg.
Hindustan Times
30-05-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Putin consoles former Japan PM Shinzo Abe's wife Akie, makes her smile with ride in own limousine
Akie Abe, widow of late Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, met Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow. Putin offered heartfelt condolences, praising Shinzo Abe's legacy in strengthening Russia-Japan ties. The meeting featured emotional moments, with Akie Abe visibly moved and Putin gifting her a bouquet of pink roses, chrysanthemums, and lisianthus. As a rare personal gesture, Putin arranged for Akie to travel in his luxury Aurus car to Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre. This symbolic act highlighted diplomacy and humanity, emphasising the lasting impact of Shinzo Abe's efforts for peace and cooperation between the two nations.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
In a rare gesture, Putin lends his car to Shinzo Abe's widow for Moscow theatre visit
Russian President offered a rare personal gesture to Akie Abe, widow of assassinated former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He lent her his own luxury car for a visit to Moscow's iconic Bolshoi Theatre. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The meeting took place on Thursday at the Kremlin and was aired on Russian state television. In the footage, Akie Abe was seen shedding tears as Putin praised her late husband's legacy and their shared diplomatic efforts. "I am very grateful to your husband. I will remember his contribution to the development of Russian-Japanese cooperation," Putin said, presenting Akie with a bouquet of flowers. He also encouraged her to enjoy the ballet and arranged for her to be driven in his personal Russian-made Aurus limousine. The Kremlin said the visit was not official. Japan's chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters the government had 'not had any correspondence with (Akie)' and was 'not in a position to comment.' The meeting is being viewed as a charm offensive by the Russian side at a time when relations between the two countries remain strained due to Japan's sanctions over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During their conversation, Putin remembered Abe's efforts toward a peace treaty between their nations. 'I know his dream — and he pursued it earnestly — was concluding a peace treaty between our nations. We made significant progress together on this path,' he said according to Asahi Shimbun. But he added, 'The current situation differs; we will not address that aspect today.' Akie Abe said, 'The fact that (Shinzo) hosted you [in Yamaguchi Prefecture in 2016] demonstrates his particularly sincere attitude toward your country.' Tired of too many ads? go ad free now She added that although she is not a politician, 'Russia is a very important neighbour' for Japan and expressed hope for continued cultural exchange. Reflecting on her late husband's relationship with Putin, she said, 'Even after the onset of the challenging situation concerning Ukraine, my husband hoped to meet with you. Regrettably, circumstances prevented further meetings: his life was cut short.' Shinzo Abe was Japan's longest-serving prime minister and met with Putin 27 times during his tenure. He was shot and killed in July 2022 while giving a campaign speech in Nara. Putin did not attend his state funeral in Tokyo that year.
