Search Results

Kearys Motor Group has renewed its title sponsorship of Cork Camogie, for a further three years from 2025-2027 inclusive. This significant sponsorship includes branding rights for Cork county camogie teams, plus an additional investment by Kearys in the sponsorship activation. Since becoming title sponsors in 2022, Kearys Motor Group have celebrated with Cork Camogie two All-Ireland Senior Championship wins, bringing the O’Duffy Cup back to Leeside in 2023 and 2024, as well as the Intermediate All-Ireland Championship this year. As part of this ground-breaking deal, Kearys Motor Group will Sponsor the Senior, Under 23, Junior, Minor and Under 16 teams as well as the Under 16 and Under 14 Club Championships. The new Cork Camogie jersey will be launched by Kearys in January 2025, just before the Senior League gets underway. Also, Kearys will provide a new branded 251 Renault Trafic kit van for the Senior Team. To announce the sponsorship agreement, Kearys hosted a special event on Tuesday 3rd December in the Renault / Dacia Cork dealership, with Cork Senior and Intermediate players, together with the All-Ireland trophies, Cork County Board and special guest, Kearys Brand Ambassador, Sonia O’Sullivan, who shared her insights on sport, with a focus on the success and development of women’s sport In Ireland in particular. Brendan Keary, CEO, Kearys Motor Group said : “We are delighted and proud to partner Cork Camogie for the next three years with this significant sponsorship that reflects Kearys’ culture, values, inclusivity and team spirit. We recognise the value of camogie as one of Ireland’s leading and growing sports for women and girls and we look forward to continuing our great relationship with all the teams who compete at the highest level.” he added. Kearys Motor Group is Ireland’s largest family-owned motor group, established 44 years ago by Bill Keary who is now Chairman of the company. Kearys currently employ over 430 people and is a certified Great Place to Work in Ireland. Kearys Motor Group represents the BMW, MINI, Motorrad, Hyundai, Renault, Dacia and Nissan franchises across ten dealerships in Cork as well as Kearys Carstore used car supermarkets in Dublin, Cork and Limerick and We Buy Cars, a national car buying business. Speaking on behalf of Cork Camogie, Mairead Donovan Cathaoirleach said: “Our Cork Camogie teams are an amazing group of athletes and are fantastic ambassadors for Cork as we have proven with huge successes over the past three years both at adult and underage levels. We look forward to continuing to work with Kearys Motor Group and growing our excellent relationship together over the next three years.” “Cork as a county are one of the most successful since the 21st century began and over the past 24 years, the Cork Inter-county team have competed successfully at Senior, Intermediate, Junior, Minor & U16 levels winning multiple All Ireland &Munster Titles. As a county, we aim to evolve and challenge at all levels both on and off the field,” she added. The Cork Camogie Ratified Managers going into 2025 are: Cork Senior Manager - Ger Manley Under 23 Manager – Ger Manley Minor Manager – Maurice O Sullivan Under 16 team Manager – Brendan Foley Junior Manager to be appointed in New Year Each Manager will put in place a strong back-room team bringing knowledge and expertise in many areas. #KearysDrivingCorkCamogie #DrivingCamogieinCork ENDS Photography will be issued by John Allen (086) 216 2990 Johnallenimages@gmail.com For further information, comments, interviews, please contact: Jackie Dawson, Head of Communications, Kearys Motor Group, 086 2446544 jackie.dawson@kearys.ie Mairead Donovan, Cathaoirleach, Cork Camogie, chairperson.cork@camogie.ie

Suzuki Ireland recently announced the winners of its 2024 Dealer of the Year awards. The annual event recognises dealerships across Suzuki Ireland’s 25 strong dealer network that have consistently exceeded expectations and delivered exceptional customer service throughout the past 12 months. The award ceremony was held at Carton House, Maynooth, County Kildare where representatives from Suzuki’s dealers gathered to celebrate their achievements. The awards were presented by Board members from Suzuki and included long service recognition. Takanori Suzuki, Managing Director Suzuki GB and Republic of Ireland, commented: “I am incredibly proud of our Irish dealer network for their continued dedication and hard work during the past 12 months. This year has been another challenging one for the automotive industry, but our dealers have persevered and achieved remarkable results with over 2,000 units sold in Ireland once again and before the end of the calendar year too. Their commitment to providing exceptional customer service is evident in the awards that were given out during the event. As we look ahead to 2025, I'm confident that our dealer network will continue to drive Suzuki's success. We have an exciting new fully electric model coming up with our e Vitara, and I know our dealers will be instrumental in successfully bringing it to market and ensuring maximum customer satisfaction”. This year, Suzuki presented awards in several categories, including:

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry has just released their official 242 new vehicle registrations statistics for November. New car registrations for the month of November were up 22% (1,123) when compared to November 2023 (921). Registrations year to date are down 1% (120,783) on the same period last year (122,055). Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) declined by 30% (537) compared to November last year (767). Year-to-date LCVs are up 6.9% (30,700). HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) registrations are down 20% (96) in comparison to November 2023 (120). Year-to-date HGVs are up 8.8% (2,849). Imported Used Cars have seen a 2.4% (4,964) rise in November 2024, when compared to November 2023 (4,846). Year-to-date imports are up 23.5% (58,410) on 2023 (47,307). In November 516 new electric cars were registered, which was 59.3% increase on the 324 registrations in November 2023. So far this year, 17,168 new electric cars have been registered representing a 24.2% decrease compared to the same period in 2023 when 22,653 electric cars were registered. In the new car market share by engine type for 2024, Petrol cars continue to lead the new car market at 30.38% followed by Diesel at 22.86%, then Hybrid (Petrol Electric) at 20.95%, Electric at 14.21%, and Plug-in Electric Hybrid at 10.05%. Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting:  “In November new car registrations increased by 22% when compared to the same month last year. Despite this increase, year-to-date registrations are down by 1%. Both light and heavy commercial vehicle registrations saw a decline in sales for November, but activity year to date remains ahead for the commercial fleets. The new electric car market, following nine months of decline, saw some improvement in November, with 516 new electric cars registered, representing a 59% increase from November 2023. However, year to date EV registrations are 24% lower than 2023. Hopefully, we are starting to turn a corner for Electric Vehicles following a very challenging year. With this in mind, the new Programme for Government must include increased support for the EV project, strong investment in incentives and in the charging infrastructure. As we approach the final few weeks of 2024, the Industry’s focus is now firmly on its key selling period at the start of 2025 with generous incentives for customers to buy new cars across all brands and all market segments, members are hopeful for the busy start to 2025”. 5 Top Selling New Car Brands 2024 were: 1. TOYOTA, 2. VOLKSWAGEN, 3. SKODA, 4. HYUNDAI, 5. KIA             5 Top New Car Model’s 2024 were: 1. HYUNDAI TUCSON, 2. SKODA OCTAVIA, 3. KIA SPORTAGE, 4. TOYOTA RAV 4, 5. TOYOTA YARIS CROSS 5 Top Selling Electric Vehicles (EVs) Brands 2024: 1. TESLA, 2. VOLKSWAGEN, 3. KIA, 4. HYUNDAI, 5. BYD             5 Top Selling Electric Vehicle Models (EVs) 2024: 1. VOLKSWAGEN ID.4, 2. TESLA MODEL 3, 3. TESLA MODEL Y, 4. KIA EV6, 5. HYUNDAI KONA  Top Selling Car (November) 2024: TESLA MODEL 3

Cork, Monday, December 2nd, 2024 Blackwater Motor Group have launched their food drive appeal in support of Cork’s oldest charity, Cork Penny Dinners across their dealerships in Cork city and county with the help of their Audi Cork and Blackwater Motors Brand Ambassadors and Penny Dinners Trustees Volunteer Coordinator, Caitríona Twomey at the Audi Cork showrooms in Bishopstown. This year marks the 4th year of the food drive from the Motor Group, who have set up drop off points in their dealerships for staff, customers and general members of the public who are being asked to drop non - perishable items at any of the dealerships which will then be redistributed to Cork Penny Dinners during Christmas week. The drive will run from Monday, December 2nd to Friday, December, 20th. Photo: from left to right : Pictured are Patrick Horgan ,Cork Hurler , Jean Murphy , Blackwater Motor Group Marketing Manager, Shane Kingston , Cork Hurler ,  Lisa Jordan, Influencer,  Catriona Twomey, Cork Penny Dinners, Peter O’Mahony, Irish Rugby Player & Richard Schoonbaert , Audi Cork Sales Manager Speaking at the launch of the food drive Audi Cork, Sales Manager, Richard Schoonbaert said, “As a group we are long-term supporters of Cork Penny Dinners and we understand the vital role the donations make to the charity and would encourage people to support where they can. We have drop off points in our dealerships located in Bishopstown, Cork, Fermoy & Skibbereen. To find a list of all the group dealership locations visit blackwatermotors.ie     – ENDS –   For further information: Jean Murphy Marketing  Manager Blackwater Motor  Group jeanmurphy@blackwatermotors.ie 0818 449 50

As Audi continue their new product offensive in preparation for a fully electric line-up by 2030, they have  revised their naming strategy and drive system portfolio. In a more streamlined approach all even numbers will represent Audi’s fully electric vehicles and odd numbers will be assigned to Audi’s internal combustion engine offering. The first model to reflect these changes is the iconic Audi A4; this model now merges into the Audi A5 family. The new Audi A5 features as part of the recently launched Audi Ireland 251 retail campaign with attractive monthly pricing from €489* for the Audi A5 Edition One, available exclusively on all orders placed in 2024.  Audi Ireland has also announced details of the Audi 251 retail campaign, available from all 11 authorised Audi dealerships nationwide and will provide customers with incredibly competitive finance offerings. Customers are encouraged to make an appointment to visit their local dealership and view the incredible choice now available with an engine for every individual from combustion engines to hybrids to fully electric. Audi has also announced updated finance rates on the Audi Q3, Audi Q6 e-tron and the exclusive Audi A5 Edition One models, with monthly repayments from €409*, €649* & €489* on PCP for the current Q3, Audi Q6 e-tron and the new A5 Edition One respectively. Audi Q3 Enjoy thrilling performance, advanced technology and spacious luxury in the Audi Q3. The fully connected interior of this family friendly SUV offers a wealth of space by dynamic interior design and equipped with innovative technology.  Get ready for your next adventure with the 251 Audi Q3 from €409* per month. Audi Q6 e-tron With an electric range up to 634km the Q6 e-tron takes electric mobility to the next level. This premium SUV captivates with its progressive design and high tech interior. Experience the future of connected driving from €649*. Audi A5 Edition One Not just a name change, a game change. Level up your driving experience with the all-new 251 Audi A5. The tenth generation of the best-selling Audi A4 model series now known as the Audi A5 shows a combination of sportiness, elegance and functionality. It’s the same iconic design, same game-changing sophistication. Audi A5 Edition One is available exclusively for orders placed in 2024, with complimentary Tech Pack including Adaptive Cruise Control, Park Assist, Rear View Camera and much more. From €489 per month. Damien O’Sullivan, Brand Director, Audi Ireland commented: “ Audi has always been an evolving brand;  we are in a new era with the introduction of the Premium Platform Electric and the onset of a large product offensive, and so an updated naming strategy was is welcome. This streamlined approach will make things easier for both manufacturer and consumer. We are delighted to announce very competitive finance deals of our 251 range and welcome customers into dealerships, where there is even more choice than before. We have noticed more interest in our electric and hybrid offering and we would urge anyone with interest to visit your local dealerships and talk to the staff and get to experience these models for yourselves.”

Ambassador Aslak Brun Highlights Norway’s Connection to Irish Agriculture During Visit to Kverneland Group Ireland 22.11.2024 Kilkenny, Ireland On November 22nd, 2024, Kverneland Group Ireland was honored to welcome Norwegian Ambassador Aslak Brun to its headquarters. Accompanied by his intern, Ms. Alva Kjensli, the visit celebrated the deep historical ties between Kverneland Group and Norway, where the company originated. Appointed as Norway’s Ambassador to Ireland in October 2024 , Ambassador Brun’s visit highlighted the enduring connection between Ireland and Norway, including the fact that the Kverneland plough , one of the company's most iconic innovations, continues to be manufactured at Kverneland’s facility in Klepp, Norway . During the visit, the Ambassador participated in a presentation on Kverneland’s rich history, its innovative contributions to modern agriculture, and its role in supporting farmers across Ireland. He also toured the facilities, viewing the company’s cutting-edge machinery and operations first-hand. This visit underscores the enduring connection between Norway and Kverneland Group Ireland, as well as the Ambassador’s commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations. *** Kverneland Group is a leading international company developing, producing and distributing agricultural implements, electronic solutions and digital services. Productivity, efficiency, and sustainability are three important principles in today's agriculture, driving us every day to continuously develop our Agricultural Implement Technology. Kverneland Group offers an innovative range of soil and seeding equipment, forage and bale equipment, spreading, spraying, electronic solutions and digital farm services for agricultural tractors and implements. For more information on Kverneland Group, visit www.kvernelandgroup.com   - - END - - For Details, Contact: Conor Vaughan Marketing Manager Kverneland Group Ireland  Mobile: +353 87 482 6373  E-Mail: conor.vaughan@kvernelandgroup.com

Cork-based smart charging company Ohme has been appointed as a preferred EV charging partner for the Energia Group. The agreement will see the Energia Group recommend Ohme EV chargers as a crucial part of its wider programme to encourage more drivers in the island of Ireland to make the switch to electric verhicles. “We are delighted to announce that we will be partnering with Ohme as a preferred home EV charger supplier,” said Ciara Hayes from the Energia Group. “Ohme’s award-winning ePod and Home Pro chargers and reputation for excellent customer service meant it was an obvious choice for Energia and a great way to collaborate with a fast-expanding business.” The Energia Group, including Energia and Power NI, supplies around 17% of the island of Ireland’s total electricity requirements and is leading the transition towards greener and smart energy generation with its €3bn Positive Energy investment programme. “Our partnership with the Energia Group underlines Ohme’s position as one of the UK and Ireland’s fastest growing smart charging companies,” said David Watson, CEO at Ohme. “The Group has more than 800,000 customers across the island of Ireland and this is a perfect partnership bringing the benefits of low cost charging with reduced running costs to EV drivers.” Ohme’s range of smart chargers can connect seamlessly with all of the Energia Group’s electricity tariffs and automatically adjust an EV’s charging for drivers to take advantage of all off-peak tariffs such as Energia’s Smart Drive and Power NI’s EV Nightshift tariffs. Ohme is the official EV charger provider for Mercedes-Benz, Volvo Cars and the Volkswagen Group in the UK and Ireland . It is also the official charging partner for GoPlugable, Ireland’s co-sharing home charging company and was named as Best Chargepoint Manufacturer in the 2024 Irish EV awards.

Opel has announced pricing and equipment details for the much-anticipated new Opel Grandland Electric model. The flagship model from Opel, winner of an illustrious Golden Steering Wheel 2024 award, is available in both Hybrid and Electric, with first units of the Hybrid arriving in Dealer showrooms this November, followed by the fully Electric version in December. Available in the level two Elegance trim and level three GS trim from launch, the Grandland Electric model will retail in Ireland from €40,936 and €43,763 respectively, inclusive of grants. The announcement positions both Electric trims significantly below the retail price of their Grandland Hybrid equivalents.   James Brooks, Managing Director at Opel Ireland, said: “The new Opel Grandland combines a stylish design, ample proportions, excellent comfort, and class leading technologies, all delivered in a keenly priced package for Ireland. Indeed, our ultra-competitive pricing for the all-new Grandland Hybrid SC level one trim from €40,995 plus delivery, was announced just weeks ago, with the level two Hybrid Elegance and the level three Hybrid GS retailing from €42,995 and €44,995 plus delivery, respectively.” He continued: “But the good news doesn’t stop there. As the Opel brand continues to embrace its path to fully electric, we are striving to ensure zero-emissions driving is more attainable for our customers, than ever before. Our price positioning of the new Opel Grandland Electric Elegance, from €40,936 plus delivery, means it is €2,059 less than its Hybrid equivalent. The new Opel Grandland Electric GS, from €43,763 plus delivery, is €1,232 less than its Hybrid equivalent.” The first Opel from the new STLA Medium platform, the new Grandland will first launch in Ireland with the Hybrid powertrain. It comes with a 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine with 100 kW (136 hp) as well as 21 kW (28 hp) electric motor and electrified six-speed dual clutch transmission. The new technology enables fully electric travel up to 50% of the time in urban settings and will appeal to drivers who want to enjoy pure electric driving pleasure without having to connect to a charger. Easy to use, and efficient, the Hybrid model delivers a significant reduction in CO2 emissions and in fuel consumption. The Hybrid powertrain will be quickly followed by an all-electric 73kWh version (523km range/160kW DC charging), and in 2025, a 97kWh battery offering up to 700km range, will be introduced.     Grand in every way, the new premium SUV from Opel is longer, wider and features larger wheels than the outgoing Grandland. At 4,650mm long (+173mm), 1,934mm wide (+49mm) and 1,665mm high (+36mm), with 20mm more legroom in the rear and up to 1,645 litres load volume in the boot and 36 litres of cabin storage, the new Grandland is impressive in stance. Combined with its 19” alloy wheels and sporting a two-toned floating roof (GS trim), contrast cladding, and sharp wheel-arch lines, it sits boldly at the top of Opel’s SUV portfolio. The new Grandland brings to life visually impactful front and rear lighting signatures to ensure it stands out from the crowd. A new 3D front Vizor with illuminated Blitz logo, proudly sits at the centre front, standard on the level three GS trim. New illuminated OPEL lettering at the rear is standard across all trims. The new Grandland is also the first Opel with the brand’s new, industry-leading, glare-free Intelli-Lux HD light technology, featuring more than 50,000 lighting elements, and standard on GS trims. The level two Grandland Electric Elegance trim retails from €40,936 plus delivery boasts as standard, the new illuminated OPEL rear logo, adaptive cruise control, a 10” infotainment Pure Panel multi-media screen with phone projection, a 10” driver information cluster, 19” alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, power folding mirrors, smart key with passive entry and start, auto high beam LED lights, AGR driver/passenger seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and a power tailgate. The range-topping Grandland Electric GS trim retails from €43,763 plus delivery and boasts a 16” Infotainment Pure Panel HD multi-media screen with navigation, IntelliLux 50K pixel HD Headlamps, the new 3D illuminated Vizor with edge light technology, two tone black roof, privacy glass and wireless charger. The new Opel Grandland Electric enjoyed its Irish debut on Sunday 10th November in Dublin’s RDS, when it was unveiled at the Nevo EV Show. With almost 20,000 EV enthusiasts in attendance, the star of the Opel stand is due to land in Irish showrooms this December.

Martin Morris runs a spring-calving dairy enterprise based in Ballycanew, Gorey, Co. Wexford. When he was in the market for a bale chopper a couple of seasons ago he looked at a number of brands and, based on a recommendation, his attention was drawn to the Kverneland 853 Pro chopper. He generally has his herd under cover from early November through to February for the winter season. Following the recommendation, he took the opportunity to get a demonstration from Kilkenny-based Kverneland Group Ireland. After the demonstration, Morris said: “We didn’t need to look any further than that.” Kverneland 853 Pro The Kverneland 800 series range of choppers are designed to run smoothly; offer increased capacity; reach longer blowing distances and do the job in less time. It does this by getting the bedding or feeding material to the working heart of the chopper as quickly and blockage-free as possible. The 853 PRO model comes with the following specification: From 3m³ chamber; Blowing distance up to 20m; Drum Feed Control System – Blockage-Free Design; For feeding straw silage and for bedding; Unique drum-knife configuration to handle a wide variety of materials; Two speed gearbox for reduced flywheel speed when discharging feed materials. The perfect fit The major benefit Morris sees in the 853 Pro is that it “takes the sweat out of bedding everyday” while being the perfect fit for two round bales or one large square bale to separate yards. Bedding with four to five bales/day, the capacity of the 853 Pro is ideal for his size of operation. As he wasn’t familiar with straw choppers before, Morris found the operation of the Kverneland chopper very straightforward and easy to adapt to. “The user-friendly controls allow for accuracy in placing straw where you want it to be placed,” he said. Flexible loading is provided by enabling loading either from the wide rear tailgate or from the top, handy if you want to load from a tractor. The hydraulically operated rear door provides a self-loading facility for easy loading of square and round bales. The funnel design of the bale chamber ensures no sharp corners for material to accumulate and cause blockages. Kverneland’s Drum Feed Control System (DFCS) patented system, is designed to handle even the most difficult material. For durability, knowing the effort the floor conveyor goes through every day, Kverneland run the conveyor on two wear strips made of ‘UltraGlide’ plastic that increases the lifetime of the conveyor and make certain the smooth flow of material to the chopping mechanism. Siloking 100+ Tub feeder Morris also uses a Kverneland Siloking 100+ Tub feeder, saying it “was recommended to us as the best feeder in the market”. He has found the two machines work very well in partnership. Once the Siloking Tub feeder has fed out to cows, then the straw chopper can bed while cows are feeding, giving full coverage of the shed. The ease of use for the Siloking is also a major benefit, fitted with a two-speed gearbox, allowing for full clear out of the machine or when required a slow precise mix. Morris calls the feeder a “luxury compared to what we had” with its ability to carry a big load between yards. Also, its feed out is very consistent for the cows with the flap on the side ensuring the feed is placed exactly where it should. Morris purchased both machines from this local Dealer Farm Services in Coolgreany, Co. Wexford. The reliability of both machines has stood the test of time and he’s had no issues over the last number of years. “It’s everything that we thought it we be and there’s no disappointment,” he said. For more information on the  Kverneland  853 Pro,  click here , or contact a member of its team below: John Doyle: Product manager Harvest – 087 147 5137; Greg Tennyson: Area south – 087 700 9689; Allan Hetherington: Area north – 0044 7826 544 630. If you're considering upgrading your feeding or bedding equipment, Kverneland Group Ireland offers a range of flexible finance packages across both Kverneland and Siloking machines. These finance options are designed to make investing in high-quality, reliable equipment easier and more affordable, helping you streamline your operations and enhance productivity. Speak to your local dealer today to explore the options that best suit your needs. Click  here  to find your local Kverneland Dealer.

Members of the Motoring Media Association of Ireland (MMAI), the grouping that brings together more than 30 of Ireland’s most experienced motoring journalists, hosted the awards event attended by Ireland’s leading car brands, importers and distributors in the Conrad Hotel in Dublin. The awards are voted on by the members of the MMAI including DoneDeal contributors David O'Caoimh and Justin Delaney w ho individually assess each new car model that is launched in Ireland each year. Although competition was particularly tough this year, the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric was named as the 2025 Irish Car of the Year in association with Continental Tyres.    It is the fifth year in a row that an all electric vehicle has been voted the Irish Car of the Year, the oldest and most reputable automotive award title in Ireland.   Chairman of the MMAI, Daragh Keany said: “Well done to Renault. This latest model is the fifth generation Scenic and the first full electric version.  Our jurors were very impressed with the driving dynamics of the vehicle, the stylish design and the very generous 430km or long range 625km model with 220 horsepower, definitely a very worthy winner of the Irish Car of the Year title.”     Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor, Continental Tyres said: “There was a high number of really excellent models in the hunt for our Irish Car of the Year award this year, but the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric had what it takes to come out on top.  The latest version of the Scenic is a stand-out design and with all the benefits of a zero emissions vehicle. What a great boost for the brand entering the busy January vehicle sales market with the Irish Car of the Year title under their belt.”   The field of eligible cars for this year’s awards were broken down into eight categories and then the overall winner was drawn from those eight models.   The Irish Car of the Year 2025 category winners:   Irish Compact Car of the Year: Suzuki Swift Irish Compact SUV of the Year: Fiat 600 Irish Medium SUV of the Year: Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric Irish Large Car of the Year: BYD Seal Irish Large SUV of the Year: Kia EV9 Irish Executive Car of the Year: Mercedes Benz E-Class Irish Premium SUV / MPV: Polestar 3 Irish Performance Car of the Year: Smart #3 Brabus   In the Irish Van of the Year awards programme for 2025, the overall Irish Van of the Year title was awarded to the Mercedes Benz Vito at the same event.

More positive news for Irish car buyers as Motor Distributors Limited (MDL) has just confirmed the build-up is underway for the arrival in January of the first in a series of all-electric XPENG models. Included in this process are plans to establish a main dealer network. Contacts are being made with interested parties, including some with whom MDL has worked previously.   The first XPENG model to launch here will be the G6 coupe SUV. Following, in time, will be what MDL chief executive, Paddy Finnegan says is “a succession of models in which AI design and manufacturing technology will be a key aspect.”   Previewed to visitors at the recent NEVO expo in the RDS, the  XPENG G6 is the first of four models targeted to launch here. Others due over time are the popular G9 flagship SUV, the sleek P7 sedan, and their ‘graciously elegant’ P7+ Fastback Sedan, all embodying AI technology as a key feature.   This latest development  is what one industry commentator described as a ‘renaissance’ in the life of MDL – whose history positions it as one of Ireland’s longest-established motor distributors. The arrival of XPENG follows  MDL’s  appointment to represent BYD and  smart. “XPENG represents a new standard in electric mobility, combining innovative technology with exceptional design to deliver an unparalleled experience that meets the demands of today's drivers.”   “With a vision for AI-defined mobility, it aims to revolutionise the driving experience in Ireland in the near future, making it safer, smarter, more sustainable and more pleasant,” Mr. Finnegan added.

Kilkenny-based IAM Agricultural Machinery has announced an exciting new partnership with Topcon Agriculture, establishing IAM as the exclusive distributor of Topcon’s agricultural technology portfolio across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Beginning on 1 January 2025, IAM will collaborate with Topcon, a global leader in agricultural technology with over 40 years of experience in crop and livestock production. Expanding Access to Precision Agriculture As a result of this partnership, Irish farmers will gain increased access to advanced agricultural technology. By combining IAM’s extensive local expertise with Topcon’s cutting-edge solutions, this alliance seeks to usher in a new era of precision agriculture in Ireland. Ultimately, it will create new opportunities to enhance productivity and sustainability within the agricultural community. Topcon Positioning Systems designs and manufactures precision measurement and workflow solutions for construction, geospatial, and agriculture markets worldwide. Founded in 1932, Topcon Corporation ( topcon.com ) is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (7732). Broad Portfolio of Agricultural Solutions The distribution agreement will span Topcon’s complete portfolio of agriculture solutions, including the recently launched Value Line autosteering range. Specifically designed for mid-range tractors on small to medium-sized farms, this innovation marks a significant step forward by making autosteering technology—traditionally used in larger machinery—more accessible to a wider range of farmers. Leaders’ Insights on the Partnership Commenting on the agreement, Tim van der Leck, regional sales manager NW Europe at Topcon Agriculture, said: “When selecting the right partner for our Irish market, IAM was the obvious choice thanks to its outstanding reputation and more than 70 years’ experience across the full breadth of agricultural solutions, from field to feed. “The expertise and network IAM has with crop and livestock farmers is invaluable in bringing high-quality precision agriculture solutions to the farmers who need them – a passion that we both share.” Likewise, Pat Kenny, Managing Director of IAM Agricultural Machinery, highlighted IAM’s focus on addressing farmers’ needs:: “Most important to us is providing the solutions farmers need to help improve efficiencies on their farm – from feed management to input use. “As a global leader in the agri-tech sector with a proven track record, Topcon will help us continue to achieve this goal – with an expansive range of solutions that complements our existing portfolio for the Irish agricultural market.” A Stronger Lineup of Leading Agricultural Brands With this partnership, Topcon joins other top brands in IAM’s portfolio, including Bomford Turner , FarmDroid , Grégoire Besson , Hardi , Rabe , and Strautmann . By adding Topcon, IAM further strengthens its commitment to providing Irish farmers with access to some of the most advanced and trusted technologies in agricultural machinery and precision agriculture. For more information on Topcon Agriculture, visit: topconpositioning.com/solutions/agriculture For more information on IAM Machinery Agriculture, visit: www.iam.ie/