The move is part of the company’s efforts to grow and offer its unique AI-powered talent acquisition solutions beyond Asia…reports Asian Lite News
BLOOVO, the leading recruitment technology company specialising in the provision of AI-powered talent acquisition solutions has expanded to Egypt and the US markets with its wide portfolio of solutions and products for its AI-powered applicant tracking system “HYRDD” and also its Virtual Hackathon Platform “BKATHON”. The move comes as part of BLOOVO’s continued efforts to go global and achieve its vision of revolutionising the talent acquisition industry with the use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning with a unique value proposition.
Dr. Ahmad Khamis, Co-founder and CEO, BLOOVO
DR. AHMAD KHAMIS, CO-FOUNDER, CEO, BLOOVO: “Egypt and the US are new markets that are part of our growth strategy, as we enter a new growth phase in our journey. The talent acquisition market has matured significantly with many organisations across the world realising its true potential and how it is helping transform employer-employee experience. We believe that Egypt is a steppingstone towards having a full-fledged presence in North Africa and we expect robust adoption of our solutions early on. Expanding into the US is also a great milestone for us, as we will be able to be at the forefront of revolutionising the talent industry with the power of artificial intelligence.”
According to a recent survey by Reuters, Egypt’s economy is expected to grow 5.0% in the fiscal year that ends in June 2022, while a survey by the National Association of Business Economists predicted strong growth for companies in the US for the rest of the year and into the spring of 2022. Based on these forecasts, the need for businesses to hire talent to fuel their business growth seems imminent. BLOOVO offers AI-powered hiring solutions at a time when technology is permeating every area of life and work and businesses are reconsidering how they find, hire, and retain the right talent.
DR. KAHMIS: “There is a big potential for BLOOVO to help companies in the new markets we are entering to achieve transformative operations in their HR functions that will lead to more efficiencies. We are excited for the future and look forward to entering more markets that have potential for our integrated solutions.”
Founded in 2015, BLOOVO rapidly grew in the MENA region leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in its talent acquisition technology solutions. To date, BLOOVO’s solutions have been utilised by more than 3,500 organisations from the GCC including official government authorities in KSA and the UAE.
Apple’s newly-launched iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max push the boundaries of what is possible in a smartphone…reports Asian Lite News
This time, the Pro’s camera system gets its biggest advancement ever with new ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto cameras that aims to capture stunning photos and videos, powered by the unmatched performance of A15 Bionic.
“For long now, smartphone cameras have been a key battleground for OEMs to differentiate their premium flagship phones in a hyper-competitive smartphone market. With new features such as 3x optical zoom, macro photography and the Cinematic Mode, Apple has been able bring new camera capabilities to its iPhone 13 series,” CMR’s Head, Industry Intelligence Group Prabhu Ram told IANS.
Apple iPhone 13 Pro
New computational photography features like photographic styles personalise the look of images in the camera app, and both models now include Night mode on all cameras. Video takes a huge leap forward with Cinematic mode for beautiful depth-of-field transitions, macro video, Time-lapse and Slo-mo, and even better low-light performance.
“The Cinematic mode, in particular, brings powerful visual storytelling capabilities to consumers everywhere. The cinematic mode will further democratise professional-grade film-making sans the need for expensive cinema cameras,” Ram added.
With new sensors and lenses for all three rear cameras, optimised to work seamlessly with iOS 15 and powered by the new image signal processor (ISP) in A15 Bionic for improved noise reduction and tone mapping, the iPhone 13 Pro lineup features the best camera system ever on iPhone.
“For creative control, the focus can be changed during and after capture, and users can also adjust the level of bokeh in the Photos app and iMovie for iOS, and coming soon to iMovie for macOS and Final Cut Pro, making the lineup the only devices able to edit the depth-of-field effect in video even after recording. Enabled by A15 Bionic and advanced machine learning algorithms, Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR,” Apple said.
Apple has also posted a new ad for the iPhone 13 Pro highlighting its cinematic video recording capabilities. The ad was directed by two-time Oscar winner Kathryn Bigelow.
“That’s really bringing it up to the professional film cameras,” cinematographer Greig Fraser, who was joined in a promotional video with Bigelow, said during Apple’s Tuesday event. “We’re going to very, very soon see filmmakers make films in a different way.”
Apple iPhone 13 Pro
Cinematic mode on iPhone records videos of people, pets, and objects with a better depth effect. For creative control, the focus can be changed during and after capture, and users can also adjust the level of bokeh effect in the Photos app and iMovie for iOS, and coming soon to iMovie for macOS and Final Cut Pro, making the lineup the only devices able to edit the depth-of-field effect in video even after recording. Enabled by A15 Bionic and advanced machine learning algorithms, Cinematic mode records in Dolby Vision HDR.
“It will democratise film making and essentially help a lot of user generated content to go pro level, which can further better the consumption of such content. Also (it is a) good option for solo content creators especially for digital platforms. The new iPhone comes with great features at a time when live commerce and social commerce is commencing. The camera features will help many solopreneurs to create a compelling and immersive video stories to complement the trend,” techARC Founder and Chief Analyst, Faisal Kawoosa, told IANS.
iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max also introduced ProRes, an advanced video codec used widely as the final delivery format for commercials, feature films, and broadcasts, to offer higher colour fidelity and less compression. iPhone is the only smartphone to provide an end-to-end workflow — capture, edit, and share in Dolby Vision or ProRes.
“I think the form factor here and advancement in computational photography will surely help more user to shift in favour of smartphone photography. However, cameras will still have professional audience sticking with them but surely, they need to innovate further,” market intelligence firm Counterpoint Research Director Tarun Pathak said.
Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) has set out its vision for hydrogen energy and a global hydrogen society…reports Asian Lite News
At the Hydrogen Wave global online forum held today, the Group presented its plans to popularize hydrogen by 2040 through the introduction of new technologies and mobility solutions in transportation and other industrial sectors.
Further underscoring its pioneering commitment to clean sustainable energy for all types of mobility, the Group unveiled unprecedented plans that will see the electrification of all new commercial vehicle models – featuring fuel cell electric or battery electric powertrains, as well as the application of fuel cell systems – to all models by 2028. The daring strategy will put the Group at the vanguard of the commercial vehicle sector, in the process helping to reshape the industry and realize a sustainable clean future.
Hyundai announces Hydrogen Vision 2040
Representing the Group’s plans for a new ‘wave’ of hydrogen-based products and technologies that advances the journey toward a hydrogen society, the Hydrogen Wave activities kicked off today with an online presentation– led by Chairman of the Group, Euisun Chung, and other senior executives. The team outlined the Group’s future hydrogen strategy for fuel cell systems and fuel cell-based solutions for mobility and other areas.
The Group’s central target to fully apply its commercial vehicle lineup with fuel cells by 2028 will make it the first global automaker to realize such ambitions for commercial vehicle transportation and will further help facilitate the transition to true sustainable mobility.
CHUNG, CHAIRMAN, HYDROGEN WAVE ONLINE GLOBAL FORUM: “Hyundai Motor Group’s vision is to apply hydrogen energy in all areas of life and industry such as our homes, work-places and factories. The goal is to make hydrogen readily used for everyone, everything, and everywhere. We want to offer practical solutions for the sustainable development of humanity and with these breakthroughs, we aim to help foster a worldwide Hydrogen Society by 2040.”
The online global forum will be followed by a physical ‘HydroVILLE’ exhibition, at which the newly introduced applications and concepts will be presented. Inspired by the potential for clean hydrogen, the HydroVILLE exhibition features various fuel cell concepts for future mobility and power generation.
Since the development of its first FCEV in 1998, the Group has been preparing for the future of hydrogen. In 2013, the Tucson FCEV (ix35 Fuel Cell) was introduced, opening the door to the mass production of FCEVs. Then, in 2018, the company launched the next-generation fuel cell SUV, NEXO, and the world’s first heavy-duty fuel cell truck, XCIENT Fuel Cell, in 2020.
Now, the Group is backing hydrogen to play a significant role in building a sustainable future and reducing society’s dependence on fossil fuels. After two decades at the forefront of fuel cell technology development, the Group will expand its fuel cell technologies for wider applications of its vehicles, including additional mobility solutions and various energy utilization.
According to the Hydrogen Council, a global CEO-led initiative of leading energy, transport, industry and investment companies, hydrogen energy will account for 18 percent of global energy demand by 2050, with a market size of USD 2.5 trillion. The popularization of hydrogen energy will also help cut CO2 emissions by more than six billion tons a year, while creating over 30 million new jobs.
Hydrogen Vision 2040 – Carbon neutrality solution via an energy paradigm shift
The vision for Hyundai Motor Group is that by 2040 hydrogen energy will be used not only for transportation but will also be applied to wider areas of industries and sectors. The Group aims to make hydrogen energy available to ‘Everyone, Everything and Everywhere’.
During Hydrogen Wave, the Group is sharing its plans to proactively respond to climate change through hydrogen solutions, starting with the commercial vehicle sector, which emits larger amounts of CO2 and requires longer drive ranges’ compared with the passenger vehicle sector. As a result of such findings, the Group will launch all-new commercial vehicles such as buses and heavy-duty trucks for the global market as fuel cell electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles. By 2028, the company expects to become the first global automaker to apply its fuel cell system to all commercial vehicle models.
The Group has already started mass-producing a greatly improved version of the current XCIENT Fuel Cell, the world’s first mass produced fuel cell heavy-duty truck. It is also developing a tractor based on the XCIENT Fuel Cell that will be released in 2023. During Hydrogen Wave, the Group also unveiled the ‘Trailer Drone’ concept, a hydrogen-powered container transportation system capable of operating fully autonomously, with a double e-Bogie configuration.
Through the development of hydrogen commercial vehicles, the Group will promote the complete transition of Korea’s public transportation and logistics systems to hydrogen-based solutions – with a view to setting the benchmark for the world.
In addition, the Group will fully re-energize global commercial vehicle markets including Europe – which at present consists of 400,000 new units a year – through its advanced next-generation fuel cell technologies. The Group will develop a 5- to 7-meter fuel cell PBV (Purpose Built Vehicle) to target the global light commercial vehicle market projected for seven million unit sales per year by 2030. This will be in part undertaken by an expansion in its business capabilities and applying autonomous driving and robotics to the commercial vehicle sector.
Fuel cell systems are not only being used commercially for vehicles such as the NEXO SUV, Elec City Bus and XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, but also have the potential for deployment across diverse applications by 2040, including high-performance vehicles, urban air mobility, robots, aircrafts and large ships. As a result of such capabilities, the Group will expand the scope of fuel cell systems and technologies to all areas of the energy sector, including the provision of electricity and heating to buildings, urban energy sources and power plants.
To achieve this, the Group is planning to introduce a new generation fuel cell system in 2023 that realizes a reduced price and volume with significantly improved durability and output. Through ongoing R&D gains, engineering teams for the Group have been able to reduce fuel cell costs drastically over the last 20 years. By ensuring price competitiveness, the Group’s goal is to achieve a fuel cell vehicle price point comparable to a battery electric vehicle by 2030.
The Group will realize economies of scale of hydrogen production by continuous technological innovation of fuel cell systems as well as close collaboration with other organizations and governments across diverse business areas.
Next-generation fuel cell systems
It’s been an ongoing process for many years for the Group to strive to reduce the cost of fuel cell systems for mass application. In this process of continuous improvement, the Group has made great leaps in R&D and is presenting the results for the world to see.
During Hydrogen Wave, the Group presented a series of new fuel cell systems including a new prototype of its third-generation fuel cell stack – a higher-powered, efficiently packaged successor to the NEXO system – that is planned for market introduction in 2023.
Third-generation fuel cell system
Currently in development, the third-generation fuel cell stack will succeed NEXO’s current stack. At the event, the Group showcased two power versions of the third-generation fuel cell stack: 100kW and 200kW. The 100kW stack has reduced in size by an astounding 30 percent, making it 70 percent in size from the current generation stack to make it easier to apply to different vehicle types and applications. The 200kW version has been designed for commercial vehicle applications and is similar in size to the current NEXO system, but the power output has doubled.
For the second-generation fuel cell stack launched in 2018, the company achieved 5,000 hours and 160,000 kilometers of usage, which is similar to the warranty of an ICE vehicle. For the third-generation fuel cell development, the goal is to improve durability by 50-100 percent. High durability stacks for commercial vehicles will achieve 500,000 kilometers of drive range. Furthermore, the price of the third-generation fuel cell stack will be dramatically reduced – with projections being upwards of more than 50 percent – which will be the key factor to achieving cost parity of FCEVs with BEVs by 2030.
With flexibility and modularity at its core, the third-generation system can also be applied in various application forms. A new ‘Power Unit Module’ can offer a range of outputs from 500kW to 1MW by stacking 100kW modular units, ideal for use as an emergency power system for large ships or IT companies.
Also revealed at the event is an innovative fuel cell ‘Full-Flat System’ that lowers stack height to 25cm, allowing it to be used for various applications such as PBVs, MPVs, buses and trams by mounting the system to either the upper or lower body of the vehicle.
The future for hydrogen mobility
At Hydrogen Wave the Group presented its vision for future hydrogen mobility across several vehicle applications, from emergency relief and rescue, through to autonomous container transportation and high-performance sports cars.
Production, storage and transportation convenience will be important factors for the widespread application and the use of fuel cell technology. Under the Group’s dedicated HWTO brand for fuel cells, the Group is also unveiling new innovative concepts for portable, hydrogen refueling facilities.
Trailer Drone
The Trailer Drone concept is a hydrogen-powered container transportation system capable of operating fully autonomously. With the number of intelligently packaged hydrogen tanks tailored to the journey profile, the flexible and efficient Trailer Drone ensures more than 1,000km of sufficient range from a single charge, comparable to existing container transportation systems.
The autonomous capabilities of the Trailer Drone were not achieved by simply repurposing technology developed for passenger car applications. The unique requirements of container transport applications and the way container terminals operate meant that engineering teams from the Group needed to completely redefine how a container maneuvers. As a result, the engineering team developed the ‘Fuel Cell e-Bogie’.
The term ‘bogie’ originates from the rail industry. Rail bogies are wheel subframes that sit under every train car. The Fuel Cell e-Bogie sits under the container just like a rail bogie and is a fully enclosed system with fuel cell propulsion and fully independent four-wheel steering. The Trailer Drone concept requires two fuel cell e-Bogies, allowing for unprecedented maneuverability through sideways movement. The Trailer Drone can move autonomously through portside operations and tight urban environments. Efficiency is further boosted by the ‘Cluster Mode’ which enables multiple Trailer Drones to travel together in an almost train-like configuration.
The Fuel Cell e-Bogie is not exclusive to the Trailer Drone and caters to a wide value chain such as ground logistics, construction, firefighting and disaster relief missions. It offers a multi-purpose platform, capable of a variety of objectives – all in zero-emission and autonomous operation.
Vision FK
Fuel cell technology is equally applicable to high-performance vehicle applications. In this respect, the Group has showcased a concept hydrogen-powered hybrid sports car, named the Vision FK. With a maximum output of over 500kW, the Vision FK concept can accelerate from 0-100km/h in less than four seconds. Combining a fuel cell energy converter with a high-power, RWD, plug-in powertrain, the Vision FK aims to achieve over 600km in range.
Rescue Drone
The Rescue Drone is a new concept mobility solution that combines with a Fuel Cell e-Bogie to create a flying drone that can be operated remotely and autonomously for critical operations such as fire-fighting and life-saving. The Rescue Drone features an independent steering system for in-place turning maneuvers and ‘crab-walk’ driving. It can also carry out missions via images transmitted from drones mounted on the vehicle exterior and achieves a 450 to 500km driving range from a single charge.
H Moving Station
The H Moving Station is a heavy-duty vehicle equipped with charging facilities for FCEVs. This portable hydrogen refueling station ensures convenience as well as charging options in areas with limited hydrogen refueling stations.
RHGV (Rescue Hydrogen Generator Vehicle)
The RHGV supplies power to vehicles in aid of urgent assistance in remote, off-road areas. The portable electric vehicle charger offers single-phase 220V and 3-phase 380V simultaneous power supply.
Hydrogen Future: a new energy for a new society
As a responsible member of the global community, Hyundai Motor Group will continue to develop hydrogen mobility, expand the production system of fuel cells and establish infrastructures for a global hydrogen society.
“The degree and frequency of environmental disasters is rising fast and we now face a code red warning for humanity,” added Chairman Chung during the global online forum. “The Group seeks to offer powerful and pragmatic solutions for combatting climate change via the tremendous potential of hydrogen energy.”
HydroVILLE exhibition
Following today’s Hydrogen Wave online global forum, the Group will be presenting its plans for hydrogen energy and a global hydrogen society at its ‘Hydrogen Village’ (HydroVILLE) exhibition in Goyang, Korea, from September 8-11, 2021.
Inspired by the potential for clean hydrogen, HydroVILLE is divided into various zones to illustrate the Group’s future hydrogen vision. The exhibition space features several fuel cell concepts for future mobility and power generation, including 18 models from Hyundai Motor Group affiliates, including Hyundai Motor, Kia, Hyundai Mobis, Hyundai Rotem, Hyundai Steel, Hyundai Wia and Hyundai Kefico.
Hyundai Motor's booth at IAA Mobility 2021_IONIQ brand lineup
Hyundai Motor Company today announced its commitment to become carbon neutral by 2045…reports Asian Lite News
Hyundai’s integrated strategy to achieve carbon neutrality rests on the following three pillars: clean mobility, next-generation platforms, and green energy. Hyundai is showcasing the full breadth of its electrified vehicle lineup and latest solutions to progress with positive energy at this year’s IAA taking place from September 6 to 12 in Munich, Germany.
“Under our company’s vision, Progress for Humanity, Hyundai Motor is determined to do the right thing for the world,” said Jaehoon (Jay) Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “Climate change is an undeniable challenge that needs everyone’s utmost and urgent attention. Hyundai Motor commits to become carbon neutral in its global products and operations by 2045, and we will make investments in cleaner transportation and greener energy solutions to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.”
Hyundai Motor’s booth at IAA Mobility 2021_artistic displays on hydrogen value chain
IAA visitors can locate Hyundai Motor’s booth—where the company is exhibiting BEV concepts, all-electric robotaxi model, and artistic displays on hydrogen value chain—in Hall A1, Messe Munich.
IAA Visitors can reach the event’s various locations via Hyundai’s Blue Lane service, offering the opportunity to experience the brand’s latest clean mobility vehicles, including IONIQ 5, NEXO, Kona EV, and Elec City Fuel Cell bus.
Hyundai’s demonstration at IAA is available digitally as well. The press conference video is uploaded on Hyundai Motor’s Worldwide YouTube channel.
MICHAEL COLE, PRESIDENT AND CEO, HYUNDAI MOTOR, EUROPE: “With a new location and a live-digital hybrid format, this year’s IAA is very different from previous events, and we are very happy that we are participating once again as an exhibitor. We are excited to be sharing our future company vision, which goes beyond automotive mobility. On top of this, we are outlining our roadmap to enable a carbon-neutral society, which is imperative as the future of the planet is at stake.”
Path to Carbon Neutrality
At this year’s IAA, Hyundai Motor commits to reduce its carbon emissions 75 percent below the 2019 level by 2040. Hyundai will achieve carbon neutrality in its products and global operations by 2045.
Hyundai Motor’s integrated, multi-dimensional strategy for carbon neutrality consists of three pillars: expanding its clean mobility lineup, developing next-generation platforms, and investing in green energy solutions and technologies.
Pillar 1: Clean Mobility
Since the first unveiling of its EV concept vehicle in 1991, Hyundai Motor has made progress towards carbon reduction through its leadership in clean mobility.
Hyundai Motor commits to gradually increase the sales share of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in upcoming years. By 2030, Hyundai aims to secure 30 percent of its global vehicles sales with ZEVs, and by 2040, the company expects that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) will account for 80 percent of its total fleet sales.
By region, Hyundai Motor plans to offer only ZEVs in Europe, starting in 2035. By 2040, Hyundai will phase out all vehicles using fossil fuels in major markets, supportive of the transition to clean mobility.
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)
In August 2020, Hyundai Motor launched its new IONIQ brand for dedicated BEVs, signaling its commitment to the electrified mobility era. Later that year, Hyundai Motor Group, the parent of Hyundai Motor Company, unveiled its Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) for dedicated BEVs.
Hyundai Motor’s IONIQ 5, which launched in February 2021, is the brand’s first BEV built upon E-GMP. IONIQ 5 has set a new benchmark for redefining the electric mobility lifestyle with sustainable and innovative features, such as 400 V and 800 V multi-charging and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L).
Hyundai’s next dedicated BEV will be IONIQ 6, which draws inspiration from its Prophecy EV concept that is on display at IAA 2021. IONIQ 6 is going to offer BEV experiences with a focus on customized, eco-friendly solutions that can fit any lifestyle.
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV)
Hyundai Motor has invested in hydrogen fuel cell technology for more than 20 years. Hyundai launched ix35, the world’s first mass-produced FCEV, in 2013, followed by NEXO, the first dedicated hydrogen-powered SUV, in 2018. Last year, the company delivered XCIENT Fuel Cell, the world’s first mass-produced, fuel cell electric heavy-duty truck, to customers in Switzerland. Hyundai recently presented its Elec City Fuel Cell bus in Munich and the vehicle is now in a testing phase in Europe.
At IAA, Hyundai unveils its passenger FCEV roadmap for the next few years. In 2023, Hyundai will introduce the next model of NEXO and hydrogen-powered multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) model. Hyundai plans to launch a large SUV powered by fuel cell after 2025.
Hyundai Motor is also going to provide its fuel cell powertrains to all types of mobility fleets and other areas of life.
Pillar 2: Next-generation Platforms
Hyundai Motor has made leading investments in the field of next-generation transportation platforms. This includes an innovative set of mobility options to get from point A to B, such as UAM and autonomous vehicles, offering greater freedom of mobility without a carbon footprint. These platforms are also in line with the company’s Progress for Humanity vision, and shows Hyundai’s commitment to enhance urban livability for the future generations.
IONIQ 5-based robotaxi
Hyundai Motor unveils the first look of its groundbreaking robotaxi model at IAA Mobility 2021. Hyundai has collaborated with Motional, a global leader in driverless technology, to develop the SAE Level 4 autonomous driving vehicle based on IONIQ 5.
With an advanced sensor suite attached to Hyundai’s latest dedicated BEV model, the robotaxi features a technology-driven design that celebrates the innovation behind the autonomous operation. The vehicle will feature rider-focused interfaces to allow passengers to intuitively interact with the vehicle during their ride. Motional will begin transporting public passengers in the IONIQ 5-based robotaxi when it launches its fully driverless service in 2023.
Urban Air Mobility (UAM)
At CES 2020, Hyundai introduced the UAM concept model, S-A1, being developed based on four principles: safe, quiet, affordable and passenger-centered solutions. Hyundai Motor aims to launch an all-electric UAM model optimized for intra-city operations in 2028. In the 2030s, the company plans to launch regional air mobility that connects adjacent cities.
Pillar 3: Green Energy
Hyundai Motor’s carbon neutral strategy goes beyond the transition to ZEVs. It aims to provide cleaner and greener energy solutions for all. This includes not only using renewable energy at the company’s production facilities, but also making long-term investments in future technologies, such as green hydrogen based on renewable energy, Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and Second Life Battery Energy Storage System (SLBESS).
Green Hydrogen
Green hydrogen obtained from electrolysis of water generated by low-carbon power sources is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions. Hyundai Motor has invested in global startups, such as H2Pro, to cooperate in the field of green hydrogen. Furthermore, Hyundai plans to establish green hydrogen infrastructures in countries with strong government support and abundant renewable energy sources.
Hyundai Motor’s booth at IAA Mobility 2021_IONIQ brand lineup
Carbon reduction at sites
Hyundai Motor has been carrying out a number of activities to reduce the amount of carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions produced by its manufacturing processes. The company’s actions include continuing with its energy reduction activities and building eco-friendly plants by converting them to renewable energy sources like photovoltaic power.
In July, Hyundai Motor teamed with other affiliates of Hyundai Motor Group to join Climate Group’s RE100, a global initiative committed to moving toward 100 percent renewable energy. Under the commitment, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech plant will be the company’s first factory to completely convert its electricity usage to renewable energy in 2022. The company aims to meet the electricity needs of over 90 percent of its global operations with renewable energy by 2040. Hyundai commits to power its entire global operations only with renewable energy by 2045.
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G)
V2G is the latest technology that allows energy to be pushed back to the power grid from the battery of an EV. It enables efficient energy demand management especially during peak hours, thus lessoning dependence on fossil fuels.
Hyundai is currently conducting several V2G pilot programs with various stakeholders in the market. The company plans to implement the V2G function to its upcoming BEV models.
Second Life Battery Energy Storage System (SLBESS)
Hyundai Motor is also looking to recover and transform end-of-life batteries into a new business of energy storage system. Hyundai is currently working with various local energy partners to run pilot projects to commercially reuse second-life EV batteries. Also, the company is scheduled to test a small size application of SLBESS in Germany next year.
“IAA Mobility is the perfect occasion to unveil our global vision for carbon neutrality. IAA is yet another milestone along the sustainable journey we’ve been paving for years. Hyundai Motor will remain steadfast in our pursuit of carbon neutrality and lead the way in the development of holistic solutions,” said Thomas Schemera, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company.
“As a smart mobility solution provider, Hyundai also aspires to provide energy solutions for business and society overall. Climate change won’t be solved without a concerted effort. We will strive to do more for the environment via multiple sustainability projects in the months to come, inviting everyone to join us on our journey towards a cleaner future,” Schemera added.
White Paper
More details on Hyundai Motor’s pathways to a carbon-neutral future can be found here in its white paper, starting September 7.
Karam Malhotra- Partner & Global VP, SHAREit Group
Connecting with offline consumers: The trends and tactics Middle Eastern businesses should consider for successful marketing campaigns…writes Karam Malhotra
In today’s evolving technology-first world, the connected consumer effectively lives on digital platforms, surrounded by connectivity devices and active on real-time communication tools. While connected consumers may range from young digital natives to full-time working professionals and their interests and demands vary – commonalities in their behaviors are also apparent. Mobile devices have propelled them into a new dimension, one where they could be reading on their phones during transit or checking product reviews when face-to-face with store sales representatives. Without question, connectivity is a constant state of being, applicable to many millions of people. However, what’s equally true is that another segment has, to date, remained traditional: the offline consumer.
Karam Malhotra- Partner & Global VP, SHAREit Group
Regional offline consumer outlook
This applies to the Middle East, where there remain markets where connectivity is not seamlessly acquirable. Although approximately 280 million people across the region were connected to mobile internet by the end of 2020 , a further 350 million were still without mobile internet connections – emphasizing the scale of offline consumers even today, as well as the varying level of digital maturity across the region.
With these scenarios in mind, two questions have arisen from a brand standpoint: Firstly, are they looking beyond connected consumers? Secondly, how can they connect with potential offline consumers? While 70 percent of Middle Eastern organizations will have accelerated digital technologies adoption to transform their business processes and outreach capabilities by 2022 , many will still be challenged to successfully reach those who do not fall into the connected consumer category. Although surprising to some, certain communities will continue residing in areas where reliable and uninterrupted connectivity issues persist, with content consumed in native languages.
Fortunately, mobile represents an opportunistic gateway for brands to engage with this target audience, especially considering the challenges COVID-19 has posed. As of January 2021, the Middle East had witnessed a sizeable increase in mobile device activations with 23 percent year-over-year growth and e-commerce sales are expected to reach USD 48.6 billion by 2022 – a USD 21.7 billion increase from 2018 . The mobile phone is a constant companion for the Middle Eastern consumer wherever they are – at home, work, or social gatherings – and many brand marketers are proactively considering new ways to circulate mobile content in communities that lack internet access via offline marketing.
In simple terms, offline marketing is reaching out to audiences without connectivity access by leveraging the power of mobile. Various content sharing and discovery platforms enable users to share files and content even when offline, while in-app advertising can also drive huge volumes of downloads – yielding successful offline marketing results.
Key marketing considerations for businesses
As businesses look ahead and chart a course for interacting with offline audiences, they should be aware of the latest trends and consider the marketing technologies that will be most beneficial to them. Firstly, it is apparent that the pandemic has changed the content consumption playbook for brands. Traditional cable or satellite service cancellations have led to a decrease in TV viewership, with consumers no longer watching TV ads or visiting stores to purchase products. Instead, an omnichannel mobile-oriented shopping experience has taken effect. The Middle East has witnessed exponential growth in over-the-top (OTT) videos and related services in recent times, and this momentum will continue through 2024 as OTT platform subscriptions continue rising.
Consumers, although advertently, also have declining attention spans, which businesses should view as an opportunity rather than a challenge. Short format videos lead to better engagement with consumers, and these should be pursued as a form of engagement with the offline consumer. Furthermore, while there are popular marketing technology tools that businesses use to efficiently drive campaigns, such as Google Analytics and Salesforce, it is worth highlighting a different approach for increasing user numbers from an application standpoint. Partnering with peer-to-peer (P2P) apps that target offline audiences, have an established user base, and boast notable expertise in app marketing can help drive quality downloads for one’s business and solidify successful engagement with offline audiences.
For Middle Eastern businesses, the coming period represents an opportunity to reach out to offline consumers and acquire new customers through the power of mobile. Irrespective of limited internet access, mobile activation, payment, and subscription rates will continue increasing in the years ahead, broadening potential and possibilities. By pursuing OTT services, marketing technologies, and platform partnerships, businesses can interact with offline consumers like never before and build mutually beneficial relationships for the long term.
Swiss Arabian, UAE’s first fragrance house takes a stride forward in digital transformation to enhance customer experience…reports Asian Lite News
With a vision to adapt to a time where technology is at its peak, Swiss Arabian looks to innovate and adapt to the modern-day digital era by incorporating a 3D virtual tour of the showroom at Dubai Mall, and online fragrance quiz to provide a more tailored array of choices.
As UAE’s fragrance pioneer, Swiss Arabian bridges a piece of UAE’s heritage with the digital world we live in today to continue adapting to accommodate its customers.
Swiss Arabian
Virtual Showroom
The retail industry significantly shifted over the past year as companies began combining their online platforms and physical showrooms to provide an overall holistic customer experience. Ensuring online shoppers are receiving a personalized service as they would in-store, Swiss Arabian has incorporated a 3D virtual showroom on their website, bringing that human connection to their customers regardless of location.
Fragrance Finder
Swiss Arabian has also launched their online fragrance finder to help narrow down the customers preference, bringing to life that real-time connection a customer would have with an in-store associate. The fragrance finder begins with asking the user simple questions, such as their gender and fragrance style – to more detailed questions such as personality type. Once the quiz is over, the website will present a list of tailored options to choose from.
The UAE boasts a conducive ecosystem that provides business leaders with fresh and well-informed perspectives on important dynamics that are disrupting ‘business as usual’…reports Asian Lite News
Haitham Abdulbaqi, a Lebanese investor and businessman who is the founder, chairman, and CEO of the Taif Al Emarat Perfumes Group, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the UAE has – in a record time – taken robust measures to diversify its industrial and manufacturing base.
He noted that investors are turning to the UAE as a rapidly growing global financial and economic hub, thanks to the forward-looking policies of its wise leadership, who are always working to develop appropriate frameworks to attract foreign capital and latest technologies, especially in vital sectors, for the benefit of the national economy as well as the investors, both Emiratis, and foreigners.
The founder of the Dubai-based company praised the visionary vision of the UAE wise leadership and their trend-setting efforts to provide a robust legislative environment that keeps pace with the rapid changes taking place in the global economic landscape.
“These business-friendly policies provide significant support for companies operating in the UAE, and enhance their competitiveness and ability to access global and regional markets,” he added.
The overdependence on China has been exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic as the world faced critical shortages due to supply chain problems while China was in a race to gain an edge in critical technologies…reports Arul Louis.
Senior officials of the Quad countries on Thursday explored collaboration to ensure resilient supply chains and in the areas of emerging and critical technologies to move their cooperation to a newer level.
India’s External Affairs Ministry, in a statement after the virtual meeting, said: “The Officials discussed issues of common interest and explored possibilities of collaboration in resilient supply chains, emerging and critical technologies, maritime security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, infrastructure and connectivity, higher education, climate change and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.”
The overdependence on China has been exposed during the Covid-19 pandemic as the world faced critical shortages due to supply chain problems while China was in a race to gain an edge in critical technologies.
A statement from Tokyo said that Vani Rao, the Joint Secretary for the Americas, and Naveen Srivastava, the Additional Secretary for East Asia, represented India at the meeting.
The other participants in the meeting included Richard Buangan, the acting senior official for the East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and Dean Thompson, the acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia, representing the US; Edo Kazuya, Japan’s Deputy Director General for Asian and Oceania, and Justin Hayhurst, Australia’s Deputy Secretary for the Indo-Pacific, it added.
It also said that the Quad officials discussed holding an in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the end of this year.
Thursday’s meeting followed up the virtual Quad summit of Prime Ministers Narendra Modi, Yoshihide Sugo of Japan and Scott Morrison of Australia, and US President Joe Biden held in March.
Senior officials of the four members of the Quad discussed ways to take forward cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, maritime security and humanitarian aid in order to ensure a free and open Indo- Pacific
At the summit, India was given the key role of producing one billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines for distribution in the region under a programme that will be financed by Japan and the US, with Australia providing the distribution logistics.
The statement from India on the meeting of the senior diplomats said that they reviewed the progress of the Quad vaccine programme and discussed “the wide-ranging impact of Covid-19 in the Indo-Pacific region, and the importance of collaborative efforts to contain the pandemic, ensure health security and a quick economic recovery”.
The situation in India’s neighbour Myanmar, where the military has blocked the democratically elected civilian leaders and jailed them, also figured during the meeting.
A statement on the meeting by the US State Department said the crisis was discussed and that they “reaffirmed the Quad’s strong support for ASEAN centrality”.
Taking up topics of Washington’s priorities, the statement said they discussed ways to advance cooperation in countering disinformation, promoting democracy and human rights.
None of the three statements on the meeting named China, whose threats to the region and beyond are the impetus for the four democracies to increase their level of cooperation.
But the China factor was noted in the US statement which spoke of “supporting countries vulnerable to coercive actions in the Indo-Pacific region”.
The statement from Tokyo noted that the situation in the East and South China Seas was discussed.
China has been carrying out belligerent actions directed at Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and Malaysia in that area.
Japan’s statement added that the vision for a “free and open” Indo-Pacific was gaining momentum beyond the region in the post-Covid world.
“This vision has spread in the international community, including ASEAN and Europe,” it said, adding that the officials “reaffirmed the importance of broadening cooperation with more countries for its further achievement”.
The international cybersecurity company FireEye announced that a massive cyberattack appears to be part of a long-term spying strategy in the area of technology…reports Asian Lite News
China on Tuesday hacked dozens of Israeli public and private sector groups as well groups in Iran, Saudi Arabia and a variety of other countries for information on technology and business advances.
The international cybersecurity company FireEye announced that a massive cyberattack appears to be part of a long-term spying strategy in the area of technology and business competition and advancement, rather than a desire to harm any of the target countries or businesses, reported The Jerusalem Post.
According to FireEye, Beijing does not discriminate along any of the fault lines in the region, using its cyber tools to spy on a wide array of Middle Eastern countries, which are often at odds with each other, while all doing business with China.
The goal seems to have been to gain intelligence into achieving better negotiation outcomes in terms of pricing by viewing internal email discussions and assessments, and to appropriate certain key technological developments where possible, reported The Jerusalem Post.
In addition, the attack is tied to the cyber exploitation of holes in Microsoft’s SharePoint, announced by the Israel National Cyber Directorate (INCD) in 2019. Its maximum impact is not currently being felt.
Estimates are that some public and private sector Israeli entities started to repel the attack once the SharePoint vulnerability was announced in 2019, but that in other cases, Chinese spying in Israel continued deep into 2020, reported The Jerusalem Post.
The timing of the current announcement seemed to dovetail with the announcement by governments in Europe, Asia, the US and NATO in July of a similar massive cyber attack carried out by China.
Retail sector top target
The global retail sector faced the highest level of ransomware attacks during 2020, with 44 per cent of organisations hit (compared to 37 per cent across all industry sectors), according to a report by UK-based cybersecurity firm Sophos.
The report “Sophos State of Ransomware in Retail,” looked at the extent and impact of ransomware attacks on the retail sector worldwide during 2020.
The total bill for rectifying a ransomware attack in the retail sector, considering downtime, people time, device cost, network cost, lost opportunity, ransom paid, and more, was $1.97 million on average — compared to a cross-sector average of $1.85 million, the report revealed.
Among the retail organisations hit by ransomware, over half (54 per cent) said the attackers had succeeded in encrypting their data, while a third (32 per cent) paid an average $147,811 in ransom.
However, those who paid recovered on average only two-thirds (67 per cent) of their data, leaving a third inaccessible; and just 9 per cent got all their encrypted data back, the report showed.
“The retail sector has always been an attractive target for cyberattacks, with its complex, distributed IT environments, including a multitude of connected point-of-sale devices, a relatively transient and non-technical workforce, and access to a wide range of personal and financial customer data,” said Chester Wisniewski, principal research scientist at Sophos, in a statement.
“The impact of the pandemic introduced additional security challenges that cybercriminals were quick to exploit,” he added.
To secure retail IT networks against ransomware and other cyberattacks, Wisniewski advised IT teams to focus resources on three critical areas: building stronger defences against cyberthreats, introducing security skills training for users including part time and temporary staff, and, where possible, investing in more resilient infrastructure.
The report survey polled 5,400 IT decision makers, including 435 retail IT managers, in 30 countries across Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. (ANI/IANS)
It is the first greenfield project of COSCO SHIPPING Ports Limited (CSP) operating within Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship deep-water port Khalifa Port….reports Asian Lite News
CSP Abu Dhabi container terminal has announced its terminal will be the first in the Middle East to implement an autonomous port truck system.
It is the first greenfield project of COSCO SHIPPING Ports Limited (CSP) operating within Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship deep-water port Khalifa Port.
Following a two-month trial period, a total of six electric Q-Trucks will be commissioned by CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal and tasked with supporting mother vessel loading and unloading activities within the facility’s container yard.
Produced by Qomolo, a sub-brand of ShangHai Westwell-Lab Technology Company, the L5 Autonomous Freight Trucks are equipped with an advanced 360-degree sensory system with traffic monitoring and driving guidance system which enables operators to direct vehicles’ navigation and transportation of general and reefer containers with ease.
“We are proud to be the first terminal in the Middle East to implement an autonomous port truck system following the addition of six of Qomolo Q-trucks to our container handling fleet,” said Naser Al Busaeedi, Deputy CEO of CSP Abu Dhabi.
“As well as being extremely efficient and cost-effective, the new vehicles enable us to sustain our container handling operations for longer periods and enable us to continue operating in cases where business continuity becomes an operational challenge.”
Featuring a highly stable, efficient, and environmentally friendly platform, the electric Q-Trucks are powered by a 281 kWh battery, carry a maximum load of 80 tonnes, and have an operating range of 200km.
Capable of operating for up to 44 hours continuously, the vehicle’s electrical systems are further enhanced by a temperature control system that aids in extending battery life in extreme weather.
The new Q-Trucks are expected to deliver reduced transformation and operating costs, a significant reduction in Co2 emissions as compared to traditional trucks and serve as a viable business continuity solution in the event of any manpower crisis.
“The addition of CSP Abu Dhabi’s Q-Trucks has not only accelerated Khalifa Port’s position as the Middle East’s leading maritime facility but also serves as a prime example of how innovative technologies can transform the maritime and logistics industries,” said Saif Al Mazrouei, Head of Ports Cluster at Abu Dhabi Ports.
“Employing solutions powered by ultra-modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence, Internet-of-Things, and electrification can enable businesses to achieve a higher level of efficiency, while simultaneously transforming their respective operations to be more sustainable and cost-efficient.”
