Tag: BMW

  • Nawaz gets a Mercedes, Zardari BMWs: New list of Toshakhana gifts reveals what previous govts kept for themselves

    On Sunday, the government officially released long-awaited records regarding the gifts received by public office holders from foreign governments and dignitaries since 2002.

    The Toshakhana, established in 1974, is a department under the administrative control of the Cabinet Division and is responsible for the storage of precious gifts given to rulers, parliamentarians, bureaucrats, and officials by heads of other governments and states, as well as foreign dignitaries.

    As per the Toshakhana rules, gifts, presents, and other such materials received by persons to whom these rules apply must be reported to the Cabinet Division.

    The department has been in the news in recent months due to the proceedings against former Prime Minister Imran Khan for “not sharing details” of Toshakhana gifts. The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, announced last month the government’s plan to release the entire record to the public. In addition, officials have been barred from retaining gifts worth more than $300.

    Below are some of the noteworthy gifts kept by political leaders over the years from the Toshakhana:

    Nawaz Sharif

    Nawaz Sharif, the three-time former Prime Minister and PML-N chief, has retained several expensive items over the years. In April 2008, he kept a Mercedes Benz worth Rs4.2 million after paying Rs636,888 for it. In November 2013, he retained a Rolex wristwatch valued at Rs1.18 million after paying a total of Rs243,000 for it and some other items.

    In January 2015, he kept a Piaget wristwatch worth Rs1 million after paying Rs240,000 for it and a box of perfumes. In January 2016, he retained a Christopher Claret watch (Rs2 million), a ring (Rs19.5 million), and a pair of cufflinks (Rs16 million) after paying a total of Rs7.6 million for them and some other items.

    In February 2016, he kept a Dela Cour watch (Rs3.2 million), a ring (Rs8 million), and a pair of cufflinks (Rs5 million) after paying Rs3.2 million for them.

    In October 2016, he retained two Rolex watches, one worth Rs1.2 million and the other Rs850,000, after paying Rs469,000 for them and some other items. In March 2017, his son Hussain Nawaz retained a Rolex watch worth Rs940,000 after paying Rs186,000 for it.

    In May 2017, Nawaz retained a Rolex wristwatch worth Rs4 million after paying Rs808,000 for it.

    Additionally, in January 2016, Nawaz’s wife Kulsoom Nawaz retained a bracelet worth Rs12.7 million and a necklace and earring valued at Rs41.6 million after paying Rs10.8 million for them. In March 2017, Nawaz retained a diamond necklace worth Rs1 million after paying Rs207,560 for it and a table watch.

    Imran Khan

    In September 2018, Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister and Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), retained several items from the Toshakhana including a Graff wristwatch (Rs85 million), a pair of cufflinks (Rs5.6 million), a pen (Rs1.5 million), and a ring (Rs8.75 million) by paying Rs20 million for them.

    In the following month of October 2018, he retained a Rolex watch, valued at Rs3.8 million, by paying Rs754,000 for it. He then retained another Rolex watch (Rs1.5m) in the same month by paying Rs294,000 for it. In November 2018, Imran retained another Rolex wristwatch (Rs900,000) by paying a total of Rs338,600 for it along with other items. In October 2019, he retained a boxed watch, assessed at Rs1.9m, by paying Rs935,000 for it.

    In September 2020, Imran retained another Rolex watch, assessed at Rs4.4 million, along with other gifts by paying Rs2.4 million for them. In the same month, his wife Bushra Bibi retained a necklace (Rs10m), bracelet (Rs2.4m), ring (Rs2.8m), and a pair of earrings (Rs1.85 million) by paying Rs9 million for them.

    Asif Ali Zardari

    In January 2009, former President and co-chairperson of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), Asif Ali Zardari, retained a BMW car (Rs57.8 million) and a Toyota Lexus (Rs50 million) after paying a total of Rs16.1 million for them. Additionally, he retained another BMW car (Rs27.3 million) after paying Rs4 million.

    In March 2011, Zardari retained a wristwatch (Rs1 million) after paying Rs158,250 for it and other items. Later, in June 2011, he retained a Corum wristwatch (Rs1.25 million) after paying Rs189,219 for it and other items. In October 2011, Zardari retained another Cartier wristwatch (Rs1m) after paying Rs321,000 for it and a gun.

    Arif Alvi

    In October 2019, Samina Alvi, the wife of President Dr Arif Alvi, retained a necklace valued at Rs1.19 million after making a payment of Rs865,000 for it, along with other items in a jewellery box.

    In February 2022, President Dr Arif Alvi retained a Rolex wristwatch valued at Rs2.5 million, after making a payment of Rs1.2 million for it.

    Raja Pervaiz

    In November 2012, former prime minister and National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf retained a Graff wristwatch, which was assessed at Rs890,000. He paid a total of Rs218,000 for the wristwatch and other items.

    Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

    In October 2017, ex-premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi retained a Hublot wristwatch (Rs15 million), a pair of cufflinks (Rs1.2 million), a pen (Rs1.5 million), a ring (Rs3 million), and prayer beads (Rs1.85 million) after paying Rs4.5 million for them. His wife, Sameena Shahid, also retained a jewellery set (Rs99 million) after paying Rs19.99 million for it.

    In November 2017, Abbasi retained a Rolex watch boxset (Rs23 million) after paying Rs4.59 million for it. In April 2018, he retained a Rolex wristwatch (Rs25 million) after paying a total of Rs5.27 million for it and other items.

    Pervez Musharraf

    As per the official record, it was revealed that the total value of the gifts presented to the former military ruler, Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf, in 2004 amounted to more than Rs6.5 million. Among these gifts, a watch gifted to Musharraf in 2005 was worth Rs500,000. Numerous other precious items such as watches, jewelry boxes, and various other gifts were also presented to the former president, who retained them after paying the required amount.

    In 2003, Musharraf’s wife, Sehba Musharraf, received a jewelry box worth over Rs2.6 million. Additionally, on April 6, 2006, she received gifts worth Rs1.65 million, while on August 1, 2007, the value of her received gifts stood at Rs3.4 million. On April 3, 2007, she was presented with gifts worth over Rs10 million, and on January 31, 2007, Musharraf himself received gifts valued at Rs1.4 million.

    Shaukat Aziz

    In 2005, former Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz received a watch worth Rs850,000, which was later auctioned off for Rs355,000. Aziz had kept several other gifts by claiming their value to be below Rs10,000. On September 27, 2007, he received another watch worth Rs1.35 million.

    On December 20, 2006, Aziz received gifts worth Rs3.7 million, which he chose to retain. However, during 2006, he returned several other gifts to the Toshakhana. On June 2, 2006, he received a watch worth Rs1.35 million. On January 7, 2007, the former premier received gifts valued at Rs1.8 million. On February 24, 2010, he received a watch worth Rs1.2 million but returned it to the Toshakhana.

    Yousuf Raza Gillani

    In December 2009, former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gillani’s wife, Fauzia Gillani, retained a jewellery set (Rs2 million) after paying Rs326,043 for it.

  • ‘How dare you’: Miftah Ismail gets furious at public event when asked about getting a BMW

    Former Finance Minister Miftah Ismail lost his cool and got furious at Karachi Literature Festival on Sunday when asked about allegedly obtaining a BMW when he was the minister a few months back.

    Responding to a question, the former minister responded by saying: “How can you say I had a BMW and accuse somebody like this? How dare you talk to me that I had a BMW?”

    Miftah noted that these “false” accusations led to people in jail.

    “I was in jail for five months without being guilty of anything so I don’t appreciate people telling me that I have done something wrong,” said the former finance czar.

    “My sister, wife and daughter cried when I was in jail so you should take it back,” Miftah told the person.

    Setting the record straight, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader also said he used to drive his personal car and bear fuel expense when he served as the finance minister.

    Miftah Ismail held the post of finance minister when the incumbent coalition government took charge in April. However, he was replaced by Nawaz’s close aide Ishaq Dar in September last year. Since then, it’s been speculated that some factions within the party are not happy with Miftah.

  • Getting a new car? Check out the new advance tax imposed on your favourite vehicle

    Getting a new car? Check out the new advance tax imposed on your favourite vehicle

    The government has released the fiscal budget for 2022-23, which includes several changes, including a 200 per cent advance tax on the purchase of cars with engine displacements greater than 1600cc for non-filers.

    This decision is likely to possess a considerable effect on the sales of several cars in Pakistan, which have already witnessed multiple price hikes in previous months. The tax amount for non-filers has now been doubled, which will have an influence on new car sales, particularly those with larger engines.

    The advance tax will now be applicable to several famous vehicles that have dominated the auto industry for years now from well-known manufacturers, including old players like Honda and Toyota, as well as new players like Hyundai, Kia, DFSK and BAIC.

    Taxes for filer and non-filer

    Toyota Corolla Altis Grande, 1800cc, ranges from Rs4,499,000-4,859,000, Tax for filer: Rs150,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs300,000

    Hyundai Elantra GLS, 2000cc, priced at Rs4,949,000, Tax for filer: Rs200,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs400,000

    Hyundai Tucson, 2000cc, ranges from Rs5,799,000-6,299,000, Tax for filer: Rs200,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs400,000

    Hyundai Sonata 2.0, 2000cc, priced at Rs6,999,000, Tax for filer: Rs200,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs400,000

    DFSK Glory 1.8 CVT, 1800cc, priced at Rs5,159,000, Tax for filer: Rs150,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs300,000

    Kia Sportage, 2000cc, priced at Rs5,300,000-6,300,000, Tax for filer: Rs200,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs400,000

    BAIC BJ40, 2000cc, priced at Rs8,199,000, Tax for filer: Rs200,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs400,000

    Hyundai Sonata 2.5, 2500cc, priced at Rs7,849,000, Tax for filer: Rs300,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs600,000

    Kia Sorento, 2400cc, ranges from Rs6,836,000-7,499,000, Tax for filer: Rs300,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs600,000

    Toyota Fortuner, 2700-2800cc, ranges from Rs9,959,000-12,679,000, Tax for filer: Rs400,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs800,000

    Toyota Hilux, 2800cc, ranges from Rs7,359,000-9,729,000, Tax for filer: Rs400,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs800,000

    Isuzu D-Max V-Cross, 3000cc, ranges from Rs6,600,000-6,960,000, Tax for filer: Rs400,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs800,000

    Kia Sorento V6, 3500cc, ranges from Rs7,499,000, Tax for filer: Rs450,000, Tax for non-filer: Rs900,000

    Local vehicle assemblers are dissatisfied with the new budget, claiming that the government unilaterally raised advance tax on motor vehicles larger than 1,600cc because the industry did not propose it. They claim that the decision is also discriminatory and will reduce auto sales.

    Read more: Energy sector to get a massive portion of the Rs699 billion subsidy

    Advance tax on motor vehicles larger than 1600cc has been doubled, while electric vehicles costing Rs5 million or more will be subject to a 3 per cent tax.

  • Here’s a look at the 2023 BMW 7 Series

    Here’s a look at the 2023 BMW 7 Series

    The 2023 BMW 7-series debuts a new Rolls Royce-inspired design language for the company, along with a striking front end and a slew of new amenities such as a movie-theater-style screen and hands-free highway driver assistance.

     It’s also part of BMW’s growing electric model lineup, which currently includes the i7 EV, which shares the same body and interior as the gas-powered sedan but adds a big battery pack and electric motors.

    The German luxury automaker is reducing the sedan’s engine choices to make purchasing easier, but customers in the United States (US) will still have a variety of options. There are inline-six and V-8 gas engines, as well as the electric i7 (which is detailed separately) and the 750e plug-in hybrid.

    Powertrain and Variants

    BMW 740i is the ‘entry-level model’, with a 375-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and rear-wheel drive, while the 760i is the V-8 7-series with only xDrive all-wheel drive.

    Its twin-turbocharged V-8 engine has the same 4.4-liter displacement as the previous 750i (model designation numbers haven’t signified anything genuine in a long time), but it has been upgraded to produce 536 horsepower, a 13-horsepower increase over the previous model.

    The hybrid systems on both gas engines are 48 volts. Apart from the fact that it would produce 483 horsepower, BMW has not revealed much about the 750e plug-in hybrid. The manufacturer has confirmed that the M-badged 7-series will be released later, though it will not be a full-fledged M7 with over 600 horsepower. The M760i’s twin-turbo V-12 engine is no longer available.

    Interior

    As expected, the interior aesthetic is a major upgrade, with a similar style to the iX electric SUV and plenty of premium elements like open-pore wood and cashmere. The 7-series’ cabin also features an incredible level of technology features for front- and rear-seat occupants through its multiple display panels and tablet control system. It’s also available with power-opening doors, giving it a Rolls-Royce degree of luxury.

    The optional BMW Theater Screen is a large 31.0-inch screen that extends down from the roof to provide a more realistic viewing experience for back passengers. This is the same screen showcased by the company at the ‘CES 2022’ event.

    Amenities and Riding Comfort

    Although BMW is touting the 7-series’ driving qualities and spotlighting chassis innovations such as air springs and rear-wheel steering, the earlier prototype drive revealed it to be no more athletic than its comfortable predecessor. Of course, in the top luxury sedan market, this isn’t a flaw, as consumers are likely to value plush ride quality and quietness above all else, and would look elsewhere if they wanted more of a corner carver.

    Interestingly, the Driving Assistance Professional package includes a hands-free feature that now works at up to 130 km/h (80 mph) if you’re on the highway and keep your eyes on the road, you won’t have to steer the 7-series at all.

    Pricing

    In November, the 7-series will be available in the international market with prices starting from Rs17,609,902 ($94,295) for the 740i and Rs21,400,994 ($114,595) for the 760i xDrive.

    The i7 starts at Rs22,465,488 ($120,295) and goes up from there. However, it’s worth mentioning that BMW’s pricing is substantially lower than Mercedes’, with the six-cylinder S-class starting at Rs20,944,382 ($112,150) and the V-8 at Rs22,176,954 ($118,750).

    Note: The PKR pricing is only a conversion of the factory price and does not include any taxes or charges levied after the product is imported to Pakistan.

  • This Mercedes has a smaller engine than the Honda Pridor

    This Mercedes has a smaller engine than the Honda Pridor

    In the 1990s, Poland-based Alpha Technology produced this miniature Mercedes SL 500, which was marketed at Mercedes Benz dealerships and select toy stores. This one, on the other hand, was kept in a wooden crate for years before being purchased by its present owner last year.

    It is powered by a 97cc Honda single-cylinder engine with a two-speed gearbox with reverse and has a black body meant to look like the R129 500SL. It offers a black vinyl interior, rear mechanical disc brakes, a handbrake, a gearbox, and three pedals.

    It boasts coil springs at all four corners, a 12-volt electrical system, a hinged trunk, and a four-spoke steering wheel, despite the fact that it is essentially a go-kart. Steel Gullideckel-style wheels with 135.00–6 Duro bias-ply tyres are also included.

    A multi-disc wet clutch transmits power from the 2.5 horsepower (1.8 kW/2.53 PS) engine to the rear wheels. The electrical system operates the lights and the horn, and it has a 1.4-liter (0.3-gallon) fuel tank.

    The convertible seems to be in good shape, owing to the duration of time it spent in a box, the lack of use has resulted in atrophy. According to the listing, some mechanical maintenance will be required before the go-kart can run as intended.

    Read more: Hyundai’s electric vehicle wins ‘World Car of the Year’ award

    It is for sale through Bring a Trailer in Merritt Island, Florida, and comes with the crate, factory books, and a bill of sale. As of this writing, the top offer is a tantalising $7,669.