Transportation

Airlines Automotive Electric Vehicles Logistics Maritime
News Release Digital Asset Direct

Sono Group: Driving the Future with Solar-Powered Commercial Vehicles

Sono Group N.V.

Sono Group Managing Director George O’Leary joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss the company's strategic focus on integrating solar technology into commercial vehicles, particularly their flagship product, the Solar Bus Kit. This innovative product underscores the company's commitment to the concept of "solar essence," utilizing efficient, scalable, and low-cost solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Sono Group's business model is primarily B2B, targeting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), bus manufacturers, and bus suppliers. Recent funding will sustain the company through June 2025, enabling them to concentrate on enhancing personnel, product development, and maintaining transparency. O'Leary highlighted the company's ambitious vision for the next three to five years, which aims to create a world free from fossil fuels by installing solar technology on all commercial vehicles globally. Sono Group plans to expand its solar solutions across various types of buses, whether diesel or electric. Furthermore, the company intends to move to a major stock exchange to enhance shareholder value, following their recent listing on the OTCQB market. This forward-thinking approach not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also positions Sono Group at the forefront of the solar technology integration in the commercial vehicle sector, driving innovation and fostering a greener future. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

July 10, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Ryvid offers Power Controller Upgrade to boost performance of its Anthem and Outset Electric Motorcycles

Ryvid, Inc

Ryvid – the California-based Electric Motorcycle manufacturer – is offering customers the opportunity to transform their riding experience by ordering the Power Controller Upgrade by Accelerated Systems Inc for their Anthem or Outset Electric Motorcycles. New customers are able to configure their order for a new Ryvid Anthem or Outset to have the ASI Controller fitted at Ryvid’s Californian assembly facility. Alternatively, existing owners are able to install the ASI Controller to their Anthem as a DIY project or by requesting a visit from a Ryvid technician. Testing by Ryvid engineers found that the ASI Controller provided faster acceleration thanks to a significant increase in power and torque delivery. Peak torque at the wheel using the stock 4.7:1 final drive saw output rise from 250 ft-lb for the stock controller to 334 ft-lb using the Power Controller Upgrade by ASI. Similarly, peak horsepower jumped from 20hp to 27hp. And the best part: no negative effect to the battery range. In fact, the Power Controller Upgrade by ASI not only makes the Ryvid Anthem and Outset models more entertaining to ride, but also more highway capable thanks to the improved acceleration and torque. It's worth noting that, given the performance increase, the Power Controller Upgrade by ASI is recommended for experienced riders. However, both the Ryvid Anthem and Outset models retain their selectable riding modes, allowing riders to choose either Sport or Eco modes. When set to Eco, the power delivery is softened somewhat and regenerative braking is provided. In Sport mode, the rider can experience the full performance of the 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor and removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger. In Sport mode, regenerative braking is stronger and can be further increased by a rider selected trigger. To create the “ultimate urban slayer,” the Power Controller Upgrade by ASI can be fitted to any new Ryvid Anthem or Outset ordered directly from the company website. As a limited time promotional offer, Outset orders placed before July 31, 2024 will receive the ASI Controller for free. New or current owners of the Ryvid Anthem can order the $800 controller via the website’s Shop tab at ryvid.com/collections/bike-accessories. For full disclosure: DIY installation is not for beginners. Owners will need to install the supplied secondary wiring harness to power the Power Controller Upgrade by ASI. It isn’t a simple plug 'n play installation but there is a video to guide owners at ryvid.com. Installation is estimated at approximately three hours. Alternatively, contact the Ryvid support team to request installation by a Ryvid technician for a service fee. Riders and media who have been able to experience and review the Ryvid Anthem with ASI Controller have all reported very positively on the available performance, elevating their positive impressions of the highly affordable electric motorcycle, which is available at $6,495 for the Anthem or $5,995 for the new Outset. AMERICAN BUILT The Ryvid Anthem Electric and Ryvid Outset Electric are available to order now from ryvid.com. The $6,495 Anthem is available for immediate delivery in a choice of five colors, while deliveries of the $5,995 Outset will begin in the Summer. It can be specified in either Sector Red or Vapor Grey. Please note, riders must have a motorcycle license to ride the Anthem or Outset. The Anthem and Outset share a rigid steel backbone frame, instrument display, removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger, 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor, controller, and sealed belt drive. Both machines are capable of 75mph+ top speed and will provide up to 75 miles range*. The battery can be charged quickly from both 110V and 220V power supplies. Outset has an 33” seat height but its compliant suspension and narrow cushion mean it will comfortably accommodate a range of riders. The Anthem seat is adjustable from 31-34” to accommodate an even wider range of riders. Weighing just 313 and 315 lb, respectively, the Anthem and Outset share featherweight architecture and a low center of gravity. With the major components positioned at axle level, both bikes exhibit extraordinary handling characteristics, making them extremely easy to change direction at high speed or maneuver at low speed. Another benefit of electric power is the Ryvid Reverse Drive. At the push of a button when stopped, the rider is able to move the motorcycle backwards at walking speed to extricate it from perhaps a tight parking position or awkward slope. *Quoted range was established using the recognized Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule. Battery range may vary and can depend on conditions such as rider weight, cargo weight, speed, temperature, wind, tire pressure, terrain, incline, etc. ABOUT RYVID Ryvid is a cutting-edge manufacturing corporation in the high-growth field of Electric Light Vehicles. Founded by enthusiasts, engineered by innovators, and designed by aerospace industry gearheads, the Ryvid mission is to create more sustainable and enjoyable personal mobility. The company name was derived by merging Rhythm and Avid; elements of motion and emotion that define the experience of using our products. Ryvid produces revolutionary, lightweight, affordable electric motorcycles with a significantly lower carbon footprint than its competitors. With the same innovation applied to all models, Ryvid is poised to revolutionize urban commuting. Ryvid products are designed and assembled in California. For further information, please visit ryvid.com The Ryvid Anthem is available for delivery now at $6,495. The new Ryvid Outset is available at $5,995, with deliveries beginning Summer 2024. Contact Details Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://ryvid.com/

July 09, 2024 06:05 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Image

NAFA to Host Fleet Policy Workshop Focused on Comprehensive Fundamentals and Best Practices in Fleet Management

NAFA Fleet Management Association

In the evolving landscape of fleet management, effective and well-structured policies are critical to ensuring compliance, efficiency and overall success. To address these needs, NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, announces the development of a Fleet Policy Workshop event for fleet professionals from October 7-9, 2024, in Indianapolis, IN. This interactive workshop is designed to empower fleet professionals with the knowledge and tools to develop, implement and manage comprehensive fleet policies effectively. “Well-crafted fleet policies are the backbone of successful fleet operations. This workshop is tailored to provide fleet managers with a detailed understanding of policy creation and application, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of modern fleet management,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “We are thrilled to bring this dynamic program to Indianapolis, providing a platform for learning, collaboration and practical skill development.” The Fleet Policy Workshop will offer a deep dive into the full cycle of policy strategy, development, implementation and assessment. Participants will gain valuable insights from industry experts and engage in hands-on activities designed to provide practical experience and immediate takeaways. Sessions at the workshop will cover a range of critical topics, including: Fundamentals and Strategies of Policy Writing Policy Needs Assessment and Implementation Customizing Fleet Policies Conducting Policy Audits and Assessments Registration for the Fleet Policy Workshop is currently open, with early bird pricing available through August 9, 2024. To learn more about the workshop and register, please visit https://www.nafa.org/events/fleet-policy-workshop/. NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

July 08, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between MTS Transportation, Inc. and High Desert Management Group, LLC

Benchmark International

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between MTS Transportation, Inc. and High Desert Management Group, LLC. The transaction represents a strategic expansion for High Desert Management Group, LLC, as it works to achieve scale through acquisitions and service diversification. MTS Transportation, a company with a rich history, was established in Amarillo, Texas, in 1982 and incorporated in 1990. It all began with a single tractor and refrigerated trailer to take on servicing the 3PL needs of the Texas Panhandle market. For over four decades, the company has continued to provide 3 PL services, full truck load transportation of refrigerated products, dry freight, flat bed, bulk carbon black, and bulk milk transportation on long or short hauls nationwide. “Thank you for everything you have contributed to, the timely and knowledgeable direction and for always having the time to help where and when needed. It was so appreciated.” – Tim Merrill, CEO of MTS Transportation. High Desert Management Group, LLC, a newly formed holding company in Texas, is looking to continue expanding its footprint in the Texas market with its experience in the trucking industry. High Desert Management Group, LLC intends to continue working to streamline its service operations related to dry freight products and refrigerated products in the Texas market. “It was exciting to get to the finish line with our client and even more exciting to help our client continue onto their next chapter in life, which we hope is filled with even more quality time with their friends and family. The Benchmark team has enjoyed working with MTS Transportation and High Desert Management Group, LLC through this process, and we wish both parties the best of luck in their future endeavors.” – Jeffrey Garza, Deal Associate, Benchmark International. Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350/ Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL: Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables. Contact Details Brittney Zoeller +1 813-898-2350 zoeller@benchmarkintl.com Company Website https://www.benchmarkintl.com/

July 08, 2024 10:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Spring Bird Celebrates Significant Growth and Expands Reach Across the U.S.

Spring Bird

Spring Bird, a leading provider of heavy-duty transit solutions, is proud to announce its remarkable growth and expansion over the past six months. As a company deeply rooted in the Carson family's longstanding legacy in the transit industry, Spring Bird continues to set new standards in quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. In the last six months, Spring Bird has successfully delivered transit buses for sale or lease to various key locations, including Texas, Chicago, New York, Idaho, Northern California, and an airport in Southern California. This expansion demonstrates our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of transit operators nationwide and highlights the trust and confidence our clients place in our products and services. "Our available fleet has seen significant growth, now boasting over 100 heavy-duty transit buses with fleet likeness. This uniformity not only provides a cohesive appearance for transit systems but also enhances maintenance efficiency, allowing for smoother operations and reduced downtime. Our dedication to quality and reliability ensures that each vehicle in our fleet meets the highest standards of safety and performance," said Elliott Carson, CEO of Spring Bird. This growth has propelled Spring Bird to become the second-largest supplier of certified pre-owned heavy-duty transit vehicles in North America. Our extensive inventory and comprehensive rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and retrofitting with advanced technology such as low-emission engines and GPS systems, make us the preferred choice for transit operators seeking dependable and cost-effective solutions. "Our recent achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the trust of our clients," Carson added. "We are committed to continuing our legacy of excellence and innovation, providing top-quality transit solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers." Spring Bird's success is built on a rich history of the Carson family's contributions to the transit industry, dating back to 1943. From the founding of Cross Town Lines to the establishment of Spring Bird by Elliott Carson, the company's journey reflects a deep-seated commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership. As we look to the future, Spring Bird remains focused on expanding our reach, enhancing our services, and delivering exceptional value to our customers. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in the transit industry. About Spring BirdSpring Bird is a premier provider of transportation solutions specializing in the sale, leasing, and service of heavy-duty transit buses and motor coaches. Drawing from the rich Carson family legacy in the transportation industry, Spring Bird offers an inventory of high-quality buses from leading manufacturers and provides customized rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and technological retrofitting. Dedicated to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Spring Bird addresses the unique needs of cities, transit agencies, and private operators, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Contact Details Media Contact press@springbirdbus.com Company Website https://springbirdbus.com

July 02, 2024 11:17 AM Central Daylight Time

The Future Of Air Mobility: Horizon Aircraft's Cavorite X7 Leading The Charge In eVTOL Innovation

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Imagine being able to order a flying taxi at the touch of a button, then to be whisked over the traffic and across the city in minutes, navigating above skyscrapers to an awaiting vertiport. Imagine a loved one being airlifted to the hospital in half of the time of a traditional helicopter. While this futuristic vision was once confined to the realm of science fiction, excitement for a new form of air travel is growing as advances in technology could bring them to our skies sooner than many think. Global investors expect to see the first commercial flights using electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft by 2026. The United States Federal Aviation Administration said last year that it expects the first eVTOL to begin commercial operations around late 2024 or early 2025. The United Kingdom, meanwhile, recently outlined a roadmap for eVTOL aircraft use, which it sees launching in the country by 2026, with fully autonomous versions in the skies by 2030. According to Spherical Insights, the Advanced Mobility Market (AMM) was worth $9.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 18.69% from 2023 to 2033, reaching $51 billion. Morgan Stanley has an even more bullish outlook, predicting that AMM will encompass a total addressable market of $1.5 trillion by 2040, citing the convergence of technologies such as batteries, autonomous systems and advanced manufacturing as reasons for this explosive growth. Who Needs A Pilot, Anyway? Several key players are making headlines in the eVTOL market, including New Horizon Aircraft (NYSE: HOVR), Joby Aviation and Lilium. While most companies are taking a traditional piloted approach with their eVTOLs, others, such as Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR), EHang and Boeing (NYSE: BA) subsidiary Wisk Aero are developing fully autonomous versions. As the technology develops and governments begin to adopt regulations to allow unpiloted eVTOLs, we can expect to see other players, such as Horizon Aircraft, following suit with autonomous vehicles of their own. Horizon Aircraft: Bucking The Trend While many competitors in the space are developing fully electric eVTOL aircraft, Horizon’s Cavorite X7 uses a hybrid electric propulsion system, allowing it to travel faster, go further and carry more useful cargo. According to the company, the X7 will have a maximum range of 500 miles, a maximum useful load of 1,500lb and a top speed of 250 mph – outperforming its all-electric competitors in every metric. The seven-seat Cavorite X7 uses a patented fan-in-wing design, with 14 electric ducted fans installed. After a vertical takeoff, the wings reconfigure, allowing it to fly like a normal aircraft during en-route flight. It can also take off and land from a traditional airport like a normal aircraft. The Canadian firm currently has a 50%-scale prototype that has successfully demonstrated hover flight and hopes to complete a successful transition flight soon. The company recently announced a number of promising technical updates. Horizon’s innovative approach appears to be working – earlier this year, Indian air operator JetSetGo signed a letter of intent with the company to purchase 50 Cavorite X7 for $5 million each, with an option to purchase an additional 50, at a total cost of $500 million. With its innovative approach to eVTOL design, and with a government that has shown robust support for the development of sustainable aviation, New Horizon Aircraft seems to be in a good position to take advantage of a potential boom in this new and disruptive form of air travel. Featured photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 01, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Image

Flash Appoints Chris Donus as President

Flash Parking

Flash, the leading end-to-end parking technology platform, today announced that Chris Donus, the current CFO, has been appointed president of the organization. In the newly established role, Donus will expand his focus on day-to-day operations, working closely with the leadership team to execute transformative strategies that include the expansion of Flash’s burgeoning digital demand network, EV charging and parking platform scale, and driving the company’s regionalized branch organization to deliver unmatched partner experiences. Dan Sharplin will continue in his role as Chairman and CEO, focusing on international growth, strategic transactions, and ecosystem partnerships. “This promotion reflects Chris’s exceptional leadership and expertise at this time of tremendous momentum for Flash as we rapidly scale our industry-leading parking and EV charging digital ecosystem," said Flash CEO Dan Sharplin. “In the next 24 months, we anticipate more transformation in the parking industry than we’ve seen in several decades prior. Chris has the relevant experience to ensure we execute on our priorities that allow us to drive this industry transformation.” “We are building a parking and EV charging ecosystem where a seamless driver experience benefits everyone,” said Donus. “There is an incredible amount of innovation and hard work being done across Flash to build the platform and partnerships that further our position as the leader in parking and EV Charging technology. I look forward to ensuring the value we create is incomparable in my role as President of Flash.” Before Flash, Donus served as COO and CFO at Wheel Health, a venture-backed telehealth platform developer designed to connect companies and clinicians to deliver virtual care. He also served in senior leadership roles at Lyft as VP and Business Unit leader of Express Drive, the customer-facing fleet line of business, generating over $400 million in rental revenue and over $2 billion in Lyft rides. Prior to that, he was president of Silvercar from 2015 to 2018 alongside roles as COO, from 2017 to 2018, and CFO from 2012 to 2015. He has also served in leadership roles at Freescale Semiconductor, Hertz Global Holding, and Lucent Technologies. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations—connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress. The solution has arrived. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

June 27, 2024 10:00 AM Central Daylight Time

What's Trending Now - Summer Must-Haves

News Media Group, Inc.

Contact Details News Media Group, Inc. Karl Wayne +1 334-440-6397 karl@newsmg.com Company Website https://newsmg.com/

June 27, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Ocean Power Technologies Selected as Preferred Supplier for PowerBuoy with Merrows in Middle East

Ocean Power Technologies Inc

Ocean Power Technologies CEO Philipp Stratmann joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce that the company has been selected as a preferred supplier for a PowerBuoy equipped with Merrows, its Artificial Intelligence-capable Maritime Domain Awareness Solution. This selection is for an immediate delivery opportunity in the Middle East. The contract, once finalized, is expected to generate revenues in the current quarter. The company had previously announced the completion of engineering for Merrows to operate in hot climates. Stratmann highlighted that this development is another example of the company's growth in its PowerBuoy business. He emphasized that the Middle East presents significant opportunities for Merrows and the potential to integrate additional Wave Adaptive Modular Vessels (WAM-Vs) into their operations. This strategic move underscores Ocean Power Technologies' commitment to expanding its market presence and leveraging its advanced maritime technologies to meet the growing demand in the Middle East. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

June 26, 2024 10:27 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

1 2 3 4 5 ... 139