High-end car modifications that truly embodies luxury

High-end cars are not only a prized item in one’s collection, but also an embodiment of their personality and taste. This explains the popularity of aftermarket modifications and accessories to customise one’s car. Though investments are at times hefty, customised accessories enable owners’ prized cars to stand out as a one-of-a-kind luxury collectable which they can drive around with great pride.

Personalized hood ornament

A glamourous customised figurine on a car’s hood is a must-have accessory that symbolises the unique character of its car owner in a true luxurious fashion. For instance, the most expensive Rolls Royce Phantom sports a gold Pantheon Grille ornament, one of 30 bespoke phantoms commissioned by Hong Kong real estate mogul, Steven Hung. The ornament, plated in 24-karat gold and a pavé of 336 brilliant-cut diamonds surrounding the iconic Rolls Royce badge below it, is the most expensive Phantom to ever be sold.

Precious gem set wheels

There’s probably nothing more mind-boggling and attention-grabbing than a set of wheels adorned with with 1,100 carats of precious stones. A service specialised by luxury wheel maker, Asanti, luxury car owners can elevate the aesthetics of their vehicles with a set of a 22-inch wheels set with magnificent sapphires, rubies and other precious gems of their choice, like the HK$15.8 million rims for the high-end car that belongs to American rapper and entrepreneur, Master P who ordered 1,100 carts worth of diamonds and sapphires on an almost HK$8 million set of rims, a modification that isn’t the most subtle indication of wealth but is definitely a show stopper.

Golden and engraved bodykit

This bespoke and extremely exclusive work of art personalises a one-of-a-kind vehicle. A Nissan R35 GT-R vehicle, nicknamed, Godzilla, underwent a major makeover that features gold-painted and hand-carved designs by Japanese car tuner, Kuhl Racing. The s 24-karat luxury sports car, since renamed Gold Godzilla, is shelled by a fibreglass body kit painted in gold and engraved with intricate designs that took up to six months to complete. Its worth spiked to at least HK$11 million after modifications.

Custom Air Suspensions

For aftermarket modifications that are more focused on performance than aesthetics, customised air suspension systems provide a driving experience that caters to the driver’s preferences and gives the vehicle an extra boost of support. The Lift Kit Bolt on Portal by German tuner, DMC , provides unique ground clearance and an absolute smooth experience behind the wheel. The customised air lift kit can cost up to HK$32,000.

Surround sound cinematic experience

The most desirable accessory for any car enthusiast is a high-performance sound system. The latest modification in sound systems for cars provides a higher level of audio performance and elegant designs that embody luxury at its core. Such is the case with the latest collaboration between audio equipment experts at Bang & Olufsen and the high-end automobile company, Audi, in the development of an advanced surround-sound system that set up 19 speakers around the interior of an Audi A7, an optional modification that costs up to HK$49,000. The luxury Danish company is reputed to offer one of the best sound systems for luxury cars. Its stylish designs not only blends well within the interior of premium models from Aston Martin, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, but they also provide a deeply rich sound quality that deliver a truly immersive audio experience.

Feature image from Mansory

Personalised Oceanic Voyaging: Monte Carlo Yachts are fully customisable and wholly luxurious

In the span of just one decade, luxury Italian yachtmaker, Monte Carlo Yachts, has already built an illustrious reputation for crafting some of the most stunning, opulent ocean-going vessels in the world. Contributing heavily to its prestigious appeal is the fact that each of the sleek boats meticulously handcrafted in its Monfalcone shipyard is custom-built to suit its owners, with the brand’s design vision apparent both in the whole, and in the details.

Just one such example is the MCY 105, Monte Carlo Yachts’ largest vessel to date. Measuring a staggering 32m in length, this flagship mega-yacht exemplifies the very best of MCY’s design ethos. Featuring a large Portuguese bow deck, a capacious, well-appointed flybridge and truly sophisticated interiors, the MCY 105 embodies comfort and powerful performance in equal measure, allowing it to embody ocean-going luxury at its very best.

In order to ensure every MCY vessel truly encompasses a personalised touch, the innovative marque has taken the initiative to seek out the best creative talents to bring its vision to fruition. For the MCY 105, the creative direction was accomplished in collaboration with two renowned naval architects – Dan Lenard and Carlo Nuvolari of Venice-based Nuvolari Lenard Design.

Utilising their expertise, every inch of this flagship yacht can be personalised to suit the owner’s tastes, from the colour of the hull, the layout of its various spaces right down to the materials and hues of its fittings. All materials have been sourced from the highest-quality providers, be it fabrics from Hermes or upholstery from renowned Italian label Giorgio Armani. From the marble or plush carpeting for the main saloon, luxurious leathers and fabrics for sofas and other furniture or an array of warm- or cool-toned woods to burnish tables and decks, there’s a veritable treasure trove of options on offer, all guaranteed to ensure the MCY 105 is truly seamless, luxurious reflection of its lucky owner’s tastes.

To create your own unique Monte Carlo Yachts experience or for more information, visit https://bit.ly/2GSflSC or contact Asia Yachting, MCY’s exclusive dealership for Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, at marketing@asiayachting.net.

Upside and downside of electric cars

More and more electric cars will take to Hong Kong streets amid greater technology advances. Shifting to and investing in an electric car is well worth considering as concerns for the environment in Hong Kong and across the world continue to grow.

The following are pertinent facts about electric cars:

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine (3) — (image of the Q4 E-Tron from Audi)

Pros of Electric Cars

Fuel Cost Savings

Initially, electric cars may cost more than those that run on fossil fuel. But over time, electric car owners can achieve substantial savings as these vehicles won’t need to refuel. Batteries can simply be charged in charging stations around Hong Kong or at home whichever is convenient.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Electric cars often entail maintenance costs significantly lower than those that run on fossil fuel as the former needs no engine parts replacements and repairs of spark plugs, valves and other parts.

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine Mercedes-Benz EQV — (Image of the EQV from Mercedes-Benz)

Environment Friendly

The biggest and greatest benefit derived from electric cars are their contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions. Since electric cars run on charged batteries, they don’t release or emit carbon dioxide into the air, thereby helping reduce carbon emissions and easing air pollution. Electric cars are an environmentally-friendly option that is welcome everywhere.

Better Performance

Engines of electric cars start much faster than those in fossil fuel-driven cars. Changing gears and applying the break in electric cars are also much easier and smoother in electric cars. Engines of electric cars are also impressively much quieter than their fossil fuel counterparts.

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3 — (image of IX 3 from BMW)

Cons of Electric Cars

Charging

Electric cars have several drawbacks and one of them relates to charging of batteries. Although there are more than 350 charging stations in Hong Kong, each station varies by the type of charging ports ranging from normal to quick charge and they are not as convenient to find as petrol stations. It can also take up to to 30 minutes to charge about 80 percent of the battery of an electric time, and this is the fastest. Fully charging a battery under normal charging rates can take up to eight hours.

See the list of charging stations in Hong Kong here.

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3 (2) — (image of IX 3 from BMW)

Battery

Another significant factor to consider is the cost of replacing an electric cars’ battery pack. The best EVs can travel up to 300km or more on a fully-charged battery pack, which is enough to drive from Hong Kong’s urban areas to the airport. But with the scarcity of charging stations and the time that it takes to charge fully, driving an electric car will likely deter a motorist from travelling outside Hong Kong on long distances without stopping for a recharge. Replacing the battery pack of an electric car can also cost as much as $10,000.

facts about electric cars gafencu magazine BMW IX3 (4) — (Image of the IX 3 from BMW)

Despite battery drawbacks and lack of easy access to charging stations, these inconveniences can easily be addressed by setting up a charging station in the home garage or at the carpark building nearest to the motorist’s home. As more electric car models get introduced to the market, prices are likely to go down even as their technological features improve further.

Benefits of flying a private jet

Chartering a private jet will give travellers’ the unique luxury and comforts of a personalized on-flight experience.

Whether on a business trip or a family holiday, travelling via a chartered jet offers a host of benefits unmatched by typical commercial flights.

Choose your own cuisine

Five-star fine dining is right at travellers’ finger tips with their personalised culinary preferences tailor made by executive chefs from prestigious hotels and restaurants.

Land closer to your final destination

One of the most highlighted perks of flying on a private jet is that the aircraft can land almost anywhere, eliminating the inconvenience of awaiting to claim luggage and looking for a valet in a crowded airport. Chartered private jets provide first-class concierge services that ensure an overall smooth travel experience.

Benefits of flying a private jet gafencu luxury magazine paramount business jet — (image from paramountbusinessjets.com)

No lengthy layovers
A personalised travel itinerary offers great flexibility and a much more relaxed flight free of layovers for an hour or more in airports in a foreign city. Chartered jet travellers typically rest in comfortable luxury private suites that on their way to their destination.

Have your pet on board
Private jet travellers can enjoy the rare luxury of bringing along with them their furry little friends without the hassles and inconveniences of securing clearances from quarantine authorities at the airport of origin.

Choose your own aircraft and interior
Charter companies typically offer different types of aircraft that a well-heeled traveller can choose from depending on the number of passengers. Choices can range from eight-seater models, like the Challenger 350, to the 14-seater Global 6000. Some charter firms offer longer flights and larger VIP-class aircraft that can sit up to 40 passengers or more.

Benefits of flying a private jet gafencu luxury magazine air charter amenities — (image from princejets.com)

Depart time at your own discretion
Parties who place a very high premium on time are best served by chartered flights. They decide the precise time when to leave any destination, equating to utmost efficiency and flexibility in travel whether early in the morning or late in the evening. A VIP escort service is typically provided to ensure high standards of service to and from the destination of the charterer.

Enjoy private lounge and terminals

The comforts and amenities of private lounges and terminals are typically enjoyed by chartered aircraft travellers, saving the latter’s precious time that would otherwise be spent under occasional stressful conditions at the airport.

Have the aircraft to yourself
Well-heeled and busy travellers always desire quiet and undisturbed privacy for efficient work, especially when travelling to a very important meeting or conference overseas. This same principle holds for a well-knit family whose members wish to savour the intimate privacy of boding with each other on their way to their desired destination.

Cost for a flight of 5 hours inclusive

Most companies that offer chartered flights often calculate the total cost of their charter services based on several key factors, including total flight time, number of passengers and on-board crew, as well as airport terminal fees and charges. Other cost factors include airport and handling fees, as well as overfly charges and flight-related, which are determined on hourly rates. A typical five-hour chartered flight, which includes flight attendants can cost up to HK$2.5 to $2.7 million.

See also: Plan your ultimate weekend getaway on a yacht

To charter a private jet for business trips Click Here.

To charter a private jet to for a small group Click Here.

To experience five-star service to Europe and Asia Pacific Click Here.

To indulge in fine-dining and top-notch quality service Click Here.

Plan your ultimate weekend getaway on a yacht

Chartering a yacht in Hong Kong is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Unknown to many, Hong Kong has 263 islands scores of which are hidden gems still untouched by Instagrammers and which can serve as great weekend getaway destinations accessible via luxury yachts.

Chartering a yacht could cost between HKD $22,000 and $160,000 per day. So, it’s best to make every cent worth it by picking a sloop that matches your every needs and desires.

From hosting launch parties to taking the kids out for an adventure family weekend trip, there is a variety of things that a yacht can offer beyond lounging under the sun and enjoying beautiful scenery.

Smaller yachts such as catamarans and sail boats like those available for charter at Next Wave Charters are great when you’re hopping around nearby islands. This type of sloop is perfect for lounging outdoors or spending the afternoon on a fishing trip with a couple of close friends. It’s a more intimate experience that allows you to detach from the city life and reconnect with loved ones. Prices start from HKD $22,500.

Super yachts, on the other hand, goes beyond the weekend getaway. Perfect for a customizable itinerary that involves visiting the pristine beaches of Phuket or Vietnam for four days and more on a luxury boat with a full crew to service your luxurious family holiday. Prices are subject to the itinerary, but you can be looking at spending at least HKD $200, 000. Ocean Emerald offers journeys to various popular destinations around Asia.

Ideally, motor yachts, also known as power yachts, are smaller than super yachts but are more versatile than catamarans and sailboats. They are the perfect setting for day trips with a group of friends or the whole family, where you can have fun in the sun with wake boards and jet skis. Prices start from HKD $160,000 (excluding amenities and catering) and can be chartered through Saffron-Cruises or Asiamarine.

Electrified: The all-new, all-electric Porsche Taycan revs into Hong Kong

The last decade has seen something of a revolution in the rarefied world of high-end motoring, with the advent of innovative new technologies suddenly allowing electric cars to be seen as a viable alternative to their more traditional fossil fuel-powered cousins. Taking this transformation to its latest chapter is the Porsche Taycan, recently unveiled in Hong Kong.

Part of luxury German automotive marque Porsche’s most powerful production electric sports car models to date, two avatars of the Porsche Taycan were launched in Asia’s World City – the Taycan Turbo and the flagship Taycan Turbo S, which is not only capable of generating up to 560kW of power in combination with Launch Control, but can rev from 0-100kmph in just 2.8 seconds flat and offers a capacious 412km of range per charge.

Hong Kong’s gearheads are in for yet another treat, though, as in addition to these two versions of the Porsche Taycan, a third model – the Taycan 4S – will also be launching soon as well.

For more information, visit this website.
Porsche Taycan Turbo S: From HK$2,892,000 (with FRT)
Taycan Turbo: From HK$2,339,000 (with FRT)
Taycan 4S: From HK1,583,000 (with FRT)

Exploring the unchartered beauty of Koh Hong with the all-new Prestige 420

From the beautiful Gulf of Thailand in the east to the tranquil waters of the Andaman Sea to the west, Thailand serves up a veritable treasure trove of yachting destinations for well-heeled jetsetters seeking a tropical paradise getaway from the stresses of everyday life. Indeed, the Land of Smiles is punctuated with countless hotspot locales serving up azure oceans and postcard-perfect sandy white beaches. It’s no wonder, then, that this South East Asian nation has become one of the go-to destinations for the discerning yachting aficionado.

Indeed, for those with a bent for a Thai nautical adventure, several names automatically spring to mind – including the likes of Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi, to name but three. If, however, you’d like to venture slightly further off the beaten path, there’s no shortage of choice either. After all, Thailand is home to some 1,430 islands. A good starting point, though, is Koh Hong.

Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Phang Nga Bay in Krabi province, the Koh Hong archipelago comprises a string of four islands liberally dotted with exotic wildlife, verdant greenery and, of course, pristine beaches. The main island of Koh Hong – a key draw here – is largely uninhabited by humans. It does, however, boast a sundry collection of indigenous species including white-faced gibbons, monitor lizards and an array of birds. A study in contrasts, its white-sand beaches are juxtaposed with vertiginous cliffs, affording lucky visitors an amalgam of sights to explore.

While there are a number of ways to reach Koh Hong, among the most lavish ways to explore these pristine seas is aboard your own personal luxury yacht, such as the all-new Prestige 420. Measuring 42ft in length, the Prestige 420 serves as the perfect nautical base from which to explore the beauties of Koh Hong archipelago and its surrounds. The latest creation from French luxury yachtmaker Prestige, it represents the culmination of 30 years of ship-building savoir-faire, deftly blending beautiful form with high-performance function.

Painstaking care has been paid to the exteriors and interiors to ensure maximum comfort and ease-of-use. Outside, the jewel in its crown is undoubtedly the flybridge. Fully decked out with a sunpad mattress with adjustable headrests and L-shaped bench seating, it offers a perfect vantage point to take in the unfolding panoramas ahead. Heading indoors, sleek sophistication is evident in every corner, be it the sumptuously appointed master bedroom to the capacious wrap-around galley with its own dedicated cockpit bar – a deft touch allowing boat owners to live on board they explore the island’s sights.

A new benchmark of ocean-going luxury, the Prestige 420 debuted at the Thailand Yacht Show earlier this year. Speaking of the growing interest in Thai destinations like Koh Hong at the event, Olivier Besson, CEO of Asia Yachting – the representatives of Prestige yachts across Asia – said: “We are excited to be soon opening a new office in Phuket which will enable us to focus on sales growth opportunity in Southeast Asia, where we firmly believe in Thailand as the main hub for high-spending yacht tourism and for the international yachting industry in Asia. As a long-term yachting aficionado, I am deeply in love with the beautiful shores of Thailand and its islands for leisure boating.”

Asia Yachting is a leading boat dealership and yacht brokerage in Hong Kong and South East Asia, offering a full range of customised services dedicated to yachting enthusiasts – from sales of new and second-hand boats, to management, maintenance, crew support, berth arrangement and insurance & financing solutions. Founded in 2007, Asia Yachting represents world-class boating brands from across the world, which in addition to Prestige include Monte Carlo Yachts, Beneteau Swift Trawler, Fountaine Pajot, Nautique and Scarab.

Asia Yachting
Email: marketing@asiayachting.net
Contact: 2580 8650

Sleek Ferretti Yachts 670 makes Asian debut in HK

The Ferretti Yachts 670 – a brainchild of legendary yacht marque Ferretti – has been around for a while. In fact, it was first launched in 2018, coinciding with the brand’s 50th anniversary celebrations. So popular was the new design, though, that savvy sea-faring investors – including two in Hong Kong – immediately putting in purchase orders for one of their very own. It is only now, two years later, that the brand has managed to bring a dedicated for-sale version to Hong Kong for its Asian premiere.

Designed to replace the outgoing 650 model, the Ferretti Yachts 670 measures 67ft in length, blending sleek exteriors with plush, exceedingly comfortable interiors with effortless aplomb. Designed in collaboration with legendary architect Filippo Salvetti, the spacious front bow outside area is punctuated with three sofas as well as two dining tables that can convert into sunbathing relaxation surfaces, all coverable by a bimini top. The upper flybridge, meanwhile, boasts a capacious 24sq.m of space – a class-leading feature for its class – that comes fitted with free-standing furniture, a full wet bar, fridge and grill, all shaded by a sleek hardtop roof.

Heading indoors to the cockpit area of the Ferretti Yachts 670, you are greeted with a sumptuous, airy main lounge area – perfect for entertaining your loved ones. Further in, a fully-furbished open-air kitchen stands ready for you to whip up culinary treats as well. Below-deck, the Ferretti Yachts 670 comes fitted with either a three-bedroom or four-bedroom layout, including a huge 18sq.m owner’s suite replete with its own study area, walk-in closet and master bathroom. Each room is smartly outfitted with luxury fittings, while also featuring full soundproofing against the noise of the engines.

Beautiful, elegant and packed to the brim with the latest sea-faring and engineering technology, the Ferretti Yachts 670 is more than a perfect match for any true discerning nautical explorer.

Riva 50M: Luxurious new “Race” superyacht unveiled in Ancona

Riva, long regarded as one of the preeminent Italian purveyors of high-end sea-going vessels, recently added an exciting new creation to its prestigious back catalogue when it unveiled its largest-ever design – the new Riva 50M superyacht.

Nicknamed “Race”, the gorgeous vessel was recently unveiled with much fanfare by the Riva Superyachts Division at the beautiful Adriatic city of Ancona. Boasting a length of 50m and a maximum beam of 9m, the Riva 50M oozes sophistication and elegance through every pore. This, of course, is thanks in large part to the stunning interiors and exteriors crafted by Officina Italiana Design in conjunction with Riva’s own in-house team.

A masterpiece of nautical engineering, the new superyacht is the realisation of the dream of brand founder Carlo Riva, whose famous ’60s and ’70s-era Caravelle and Atlantic steel motor yachts are still lauded for their innovation and aesthetics.

Taking its inspiration from these iconic designs, the Riva 50M has painstakingly merged their DNA with a wholly modern appeal, furnishing it with cutting-edge technologies and the ultimate statements in Italian luxury to make the Race an unmistakably superior ocean-going craft.

Speaking of its unique appeal, Alberto Galassi, CEO of Ferretti Group – Riva’s parent company – said: “From the tiniest details to the breath-taking design, this 50m yacht is a treasure of beauty, illuminated by a legendary 177-year history and accompanied by an ultra-contemporary vision of yacht building.”

Discerning nautical explorers can take heart in the fact that the Riva 50M is set to make its official debut in fine style at the Venice Boat Show in June, before making an appearance at the Monaco Yacht Show as well.

Aston Martin DBX: Dazzling luxury SUV-cum-sports car revs into Hong Kong

British motoring marque Aston Martin has a storied legacy of crafting high-performance sports cars that perfectly blend high-octane thrills with the ultimate in luxury. Now, the next chapter of the brand’s story is about to unfold in the form of its all-new Aston Martin DBX, the first-ever SUV for the 106-year-old automotive company that will soon hit Hong Kong’s roads.

Setting a new benchmark for a luxury SUV-cum-sports car, the Aston Martin DBX has been painstakingly crafted from lightweight bonded aluminium, with much emphasis placed on maximising its interior capacity to afford spaciousness for both front and rear occupants.

Under its sleek exterior lies a 4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine – as previously in the luxury automaker’s DB11 and Vantage designs – which churns out over 540bHp and develops 700NM of torque. In layman’s terms, this not only means the stunning new Aston Martin DBX can rev from 0 to 100kmph in just 4.5 seconds flat, but it can also develop a top speed of a staggering 291kmph.

As Aston Martin’s first full-size five-seater, the DBX is the epitome of versatility, offering enhanced on-road and off-road driving experiences through its all-wheel-drive system without sacrificing an iota of luxury. Take, for instance, the sophisticated adaptive air suspension, dampeners and eARC, which deliver maximum ride comfort for its lucky passengers, or the 632 litres of boot space for efficient, easy transportation of any sundry luggage.

There’s even the option to customise this attention-grabbing vehicle to suit each user’s individual needs. The Pet package, for example, sees the car fitted with a portable washer to cleanse muddy paws after a walk, or the Snow package that sees boot warmers inserted to ensure your ski trip is that much more comfortable. Whatever option you choose, you can rest assured that the Aston Martin DBX will provide you and your loved ones with all the luxury and comfort you could wish for, all packaged in a stunning, pristinely engineered motor.

The Aston Martin DBX is on sale now, with first deliveries scheduled to arrive in Q3 2020. To find out more, visit http://www.astonmartin-hongkong.com/.