Canoo Unveils Fully-Electric Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle to Offer Best-in-Class Total Cost of Ownership

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Canoo, a company developing breakthrough electric vehicles (EVs), revealed today its all-electric multi-purpose…

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Canoo, a company developing breakthrough electric vehicles (EVs), revealed today its all-electric multi-purpose delivery vehicle to be priced starting at approximately $33,000.i The vehicle is purposefully designed to maximize return on investment for its customers. It is based on Canoo’s proprietary electric platform and will be offered in two initial size variants, with others to follow. Limited availability will begin in 2022, with scaled production and launch planned for 2023. With its multi-purpose delivery vehicle, Canoo plans to offer customers best-in-class total cost of ownership, class-leading cargo volume, and functionally-designed features.ii

«We created our multi-purpose delivery vehicle from the inside out, with the ergonomics of the driver in mind and with attention to detail to help them be happier and more productive at work,» said Tony Aquila, Executive Chairman, Canoo. «The vehicle is affordable and offers greater cargo capacity than the current electric delivery offerings in its class. We aim to lower the total cost of ownership and increase return on investment for everyone from local small business owners to large fleets.»

Multi-Purpose for Multiple Use Cases

As an integral part of Canoo’s business strategy, the functional design of the multi-purpose delivery vehicle is meant to service a wide range of customers. It was built specifically with the needs of small businesses and large last-mile delivery companies in mind. The design of the model paired with the best-in-class total cost of ownership (TCO) also makes it a great option for independent contractors, utilities, service technicians and many more.

Large customers, such as last-mile and package delivery fleets, retailers, major corporations and logistics companies, also have the option to co-develop a custom vehicle with Canoo to meet their specific requirements.

Best-in-Class Total Cost of Ownership & Cargo Volume

With this vehicle, Canoo plans to achieve best-in-class total cost of ownership through range and space efficiency, as well as durability and low maintenance costs. Leveraging the company’s proprietary platform is expected to reduce material and service costs, passing on considerable savings to customers.

Canoo’s proprietary electric vehicle platform is the flattest in the industry and has enabled potentially class-leading interior cargo volume on a small vehicle footprint. Interior volume is also maximized through Canoo’s signature driver-forward architecture, which was designed with safety in mind. Canoo estimates that its multi-purpose delivery vehicle customers can achieve between $50,000 to $80,000 improvement on return on capital over six to seven years, depending on the use case, as compared to other top selling delivery vehicles.

Productivity is our Passion

To maximize user functionality, the production vehicle plans to offer a bi-directional onboard charger in lieu of adding a separate DC-AC converter, which will transform the vehicle into a power plant for equipment and tools. A 125V or 240V AC output power plug can be incorporated into the vehicle so tools such as saws, drills and air compressors can be conveniently powered up at remote destinations. The vehicle also enables various workstations. For example, drivers who have to take notes per delivery or job will have the ability to place a laptop or other devices to the left of the driver’s seat.

The vehicle was designed from the inside out to be sensitive to the ergonomics and productivity of the people using it. Additional vehicle customization examples that focus on ergonomics and productivity gains include high roof height, storage lockers, roll-up style door, ramp slide outs and more.iii Both vehicle variants are designed to offer a low step in height of 430 millimeters, allowing easy and comfortable access to the vehicle. With the space efficiency afforded by Canoo’s multi-purpose delivery vehicle, fleets can accommodate higher storage capacities to meet the increasing demands of their customers.

The vehicle enables greater «up time,» or the actual hours of use, through a range of unique benefits, including:

  • Greater cargo space with nearly 30% more parcel volume than other leading delivery vehicles in comparable segments.
  • Range efficiency means more stops can be made on a single charge, helping to lower operating costs.
  • Energy efficiency provides considerable savings in terms of operating expenses because the vehicle can go further per kilowatt of energy than the competition.
  • Urban maneuverability enabled by Canoo’s steer-by-wire technology which eliminates hand-over-hand driving and increases range of motion and route options. 

Anticipated Vehicle Specificationsiv

The multi-purpose delivery vehicle is a ground up electric design, meaning it was not retrofitted or designed based off of a gas- or diesel-powered model. This has enabled a more thoughtful, reliable and efficient EV design made specifically for people to use the vehicle as a workspace, such as plugging in their tools for a remote job.

The multi-purpose delivery vehicle will be built on Canoo’s proprietary EV platform which features a steel frame construction, transverse composite leaf springs, a double wishbone suspension system, variable ratio steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire. The vehicle will be fully connected with data reporting capabilities and will feature Level 2.5 autonomy and over-the-air software updates. The vehicle will also support cutting-edge software-as-a-service (SaaS) to help fleets improve their total cost of professional ownership (TCPO) by allowing them to manage their assets, route plan, run diagnostics and support drivers with safety, awareness and ergonomic information. Canoo’s industry leading steer-by-wire system will enable a smooth transition into self-driving capabilities once full autonomy becomes commercially available. Steer-by-wire also helps accelerate the internationalization plans for the vehicle, allowing for rapid deployment of a right-hand drive offering.

The two vehicle variants, multi-purpose delivery vehicle 1 (MPDV1) and multi-purpose delivery vehicle 2 (MPDV2), are expected to offer three battery sizes—80, 60 and 40 kilowatt-hours (kWh)—with the 80-kWh size featuring a DC Fast Charging time of 28 minutes from 20% to 80% charge.

MPDV1

Offering more capacity at an affordable price, the MPDV1’s superior range efficiency and urban mobility is enabled by a space efficient footprint. The vehicle is also designed to fit within many height restricted areas like parking garages.

Dimensions & Capacities

Class

1

Length, Width, Height

4.4 meters, 1.9 meters, 1.9 meters

Wheelbase

2.9 meters

Step in Height

430 millimeters

Track Front/Rear

1687 millimeters/ 1667 millimeters

Tire Size

215/60R18

Ground Clearance

185 millimeters

Cargo Volume (rear of bulkhead)

6 cubic meters

Cargo Volume (cabin)

1 cubic meters

Total Cargo Volume

7 cubic meters

Payload

80

kWh battery

700
kilograms

60

kWh battery

800
kilograms

40

kWh battery

900

kilograms

Curb Mass

80

kWh battery

1900

kilograms

60

kWh battery

1800

kilograms

40

kWh battery

1700
kilograms

GVM

2600 kilograms

Drive Unit

One Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor

Peak Motor Torque

320 Nm

Power of Electric Motor

150 kW

Front Wheel Drive

Battery Pack & Charging Cells

Battery Capacity

80/60/40 kWh

Estimated WLTP Range

80

kWh battery

480

kilometers

60

kWh battery

400

kilometers

40

kWh battery

270

kilometers

Estimated EPA Range

80

kWh battery

370

kilometers

60

kWh battery

310

kilometers

40

kWh battery

210

kilometers

Liquid Cooling

Cylindrical Cells

21/700

MPDV2

The MPDV2’s roof and step-in height enable individuals to easily walk in/out of the vehicle, and with nearly 2 meters of interior height throughout, it is tall enough to accommodate a standing position while inside, leading to greater usability and comfort for drivers.

Dimensions & Capacities

Class

1

Length, Width, Height

5.2 meters, 2.2 meters, 2.5 meters

Wheelbase

2.9 meters

Step in Height

430 millimeters

Track Front/Rear

1687 millimeters/ 1667 millimeters

Tire Size

215/60R18

Ground Clearance

185 millimeters

Cargo Volume (rear of bulkhead)

13 cubic meters

Cargo Volume (cabin)

1.5 cubic meters

Total Volume

14.5 cubic meters

Payload

80

kWh battery

600
kilograms

60

kWh battery

700 kilograms

40

kWh battery

800 kilograms

Curb Mass

80

kWh battery

2000 kilograms

60

kWh battery

1900 kilograms

40

kWh battery

1800

kilograms

GVM

2600 kilograms

Drive Unit

One Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motor

Peak Motor Torque

320 Nm

Power of Electric Motor

150 kW

Front Wheel Drive

Battery Pack & Charging

Battery Capacity

80/60/40 kWh

Estimated WLTP Range

80

kWh battery

400

kilometers

60

kWh battery

300

kilometers

40

kWh battery

180

kilometers

Estimated EPA Range

80

kWh battery

300

kilometers

60

kWh battery

230

kilometers

40

kWh battery

140

kilometers

Liquid Cooling

Cylindrical Cells

21/700

MPDV3

Canoo is preparing to launch a third, larger variant that will be in the class 3 truck category, following the introduction of MPDV1 and MPDV2.

The Electric Revolution

As companies are increasingly pressured by both regulators and consumers to reduce their carbon footprint, the adoption of EVs among commercial delivery vehicles is expected to see a dramatic increase. This shift is projected to be led by the light commercial vehicle segment, an initial target segment for Canoo. The demand for EV light commercial vehicles in the United States, Europe and China is expected to grow at a 33% CAGR from 2019 to 2028, according to BloombergNEF.

Further, the growth and increase in efficiency of e-commerce has resulted in a change in consumer expectations with e-commerce providers increasingly pushing to reduce package delivery times from two days to the same day. According to Canoo commissioned research, it is projected that same day parcel delivery volumes in the United States will grow to 10 billion parcels by 2030, reflecting an approximate 23% annual growth rate since 2019. This change is expected to result in an increase in demand for smaller delivery vehicles that can efficiently execute smaller volume and more frequent delivery routes.

The vehicle is built off of Canoo’s platform, which has enabled the accelerated design and launch timelines of the company’s second vehicle model. Other variations of the multi-purpose delivery vehicle will follow, and Canoo plans to announce a service network at a later date. 

While a number of EV companies have recently announced plans to produce delivery vehicles, the last-mile delivery market is an entirely distinct segment and classification of vehicle differentiated from larger and midsize delivery vehicles and trucks. Last-mile delivery vehicles operate in predominantly urban environments with diverse use cases, thus requiring a compact size and maneuverability. The vehicles used are generally from the light commercial vehicles segment and a majority of the vehicles are from the class 1 category.

These class 1 vehicles carry the same stringent regulatory and crash testing requirements that passenger cars are subjected to. Canoo’s platform, which is specifically designed for class 1 vehicles, has been validated to support these crash requirements via its passenger vehicle program. This provides Canoo a significant competitive advantage as most of the players in the commercial vehicle space have not crash tested their platforms given their focus on larger sized vehicles.

Following its U.S. commercial debut, Canoo will look to launch the multi-purpose delivery vehicle in other markets such as Canada, Mexico and Europe. Customers looking for more information on the multi-purpose delivery vehicle can visit canoo.com.

About Canoo

Canoo is a Los Angeles-based company that has developed breakthrough electric vehicles, reinventing the automotive landscape with bold innovations in design, pioneering technologies, and a unique business model that defies traditional ownership to put customers first. Distinguished by its experienced team – numbering over 300 employees from leading technology and automotive companies – Canoo has designed a modular platform purpose-built to deliver maximum vehicle interior space and adaptable to support a wide range of vehicle applications for consumers and businesses.

For more information, please visit www.canoo.com.

For Canoo press materials, including photos, please visit press.canoo.com.

For investors, please visit investors.canoo.com.

Forward Looking Statements

The information in this press release includes «forward-looking statements» within the meaning of the «safe harbor» provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as «estimate,» «plan,» «project,» «forecast,» «intend,» «will,» «expect,» «anticipate,» «believe,» «seek,» «target» or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and forecasts of financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and market share, expectations and timing related to commercial product launches, ability to accelerate Canoo’s go-to-market strategy and capitalize on commercial opportunities, potential success of Canoo’s go-to-market strategy and expectations regarding vehicle specifications, pricing and total cost of ownership and expectations related to the timing of vehicle launches. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of Canoo’s and Hennessy Capital Acquisition Corp. IV’s («HCAC») management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Canoo and HCAC. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed business combination, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the proposed business combination or that the approval of the stockholders of HCAC or Canoo is not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed business combination; risks relating to the uncertainty of the projected financial information with respect to Canoo; risks related to the rollout of Canoo’s business and the timing of expected business milestones and commercial launch; risks related to future market adoption of Canoo’s offerings; risks related to Canoo’s go-to-market strategy and subscription business model; the effects of competition on Canoo’s future business; the amount of redemption requests made by HCAC’s public stockholders; the ability of HCAC or the combined company to issue equity or equity-linked securities in connection with the proposed business combination or in the future, and those factors discussed in HCAC’s final prospectus filed on March 4, 2019, Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2020, June 30, 2020 and September 30, 2020, the registration statement on Form S-4 (together with all amendments thereto, the «Registration Statement») initially filed on September 18, 2020, and the definitive proxy statement / prospectus contained therein, in each case, under the heading «Risk Factors,» and other documents of HCAC filed, or to be filed, with the Securities and Exchange Commission («SEC»). If any of these risks materialize or our assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that neither HCAC nor Canoo presently know or that HCAC and Canoo currently believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect HCAC’s and Canoo’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. HCAC and Canoo anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause HCAC’s and Canoo’s assessments to change. However, while HCAC and Canoo may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, HCAC and Canoo specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing HCAC’s and Canoo’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements.

Important Information for Investors and Shareholders

In connection with the proposed business combination, HCAC has filed the Registration Statement with the SEC. Additionally, HCAC will file other relevant materials with the SEC in connection with the business combination. Copies may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. Security holders of HCAC are urged to read the Registration Statement and the other relevant materials when they become available before making any voting decision with respect to the proposed business combination because they will contain important information about the business combination and the parties to the business combination. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, the websites referenced in this press release is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this press release.

Participants in the Solicitation

HCAC and its directors and officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of HCAC’s stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination. Security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of certain of HCAC’s executive officers and directors in the solicitation by reading HCAC’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, and the Registration Statement and other relevant materials filed with the SEC in connection with the business combination when they become available. Information concerning the interests of HCAC’s participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of their stockholders generally, are set forth in the Registration Statement.

i Reflects the 40kWh base variant of the Canoo MPDV1. Final production vehicle pricing and specifications are subject to change.

ii Best-in-class determinations based on a comparison of the Canoo MPDV1 and MPDV2 against a representative set of leading comparably-sized competitor vehicles, including the Nissan E-NV200, Ford Transit Custom L2H2, Ford Transit L2H2 290, Mercedes Sprinter L1H1 RWD, Mercedes e-Vito L3, and Mercedes e-Sprinter L2H2, among others. Total cost of ownership assumptions include, among other considerations, 6-year vehicle life span, electricity costs ($0.17 / kW) less 10% charging inefficiency, average costs of gasoline and includes incentives/discounts for electric vehicles. All vehicles include insurance payments (benchmarked on MSRP). Assumes reduced annual maintenance costs for battery electric vehicles. Residual values benchmarked on Ford Transit L2H2.

iii Individual features available on select vehicles.

ivVehicle specifications and performance metrics are prospective, reflecting current engineering and design direction, manufacturer simulations and EPA-estimated average range calculation methodology. Final production vehicle specifications and performance metrics are subject to change.

 

SOURCE Canoo

Maxeon Solar Technologies Welcomes Mark Babcock as Chief Revenue Officer

SINGAPORE, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ:MAXN), a global leader in solar innovation, today announced a strategic addition to its executive management team with Mark Babcock joining the company as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), effective immediately.

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SINGAPORE, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. (NASDAQ:MAXN), a global leader in solar innovation, today announced a strategic addition to its executive management team with Mark Babcock joining the company as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), effective immediately.

Reporting to CEO Jeff Waters, Babcock will be responsible for all revenue generating processes, accelerating the company’s expansion strategy and international growth, and delivering the best experience to installation partners, distributors and customers globally. He will be also responsible for identifying new revenue opportunities and pioneering new markets for the company. In his role, Babcock will lead all market-facing/go-to-market functions.

«We are pleased to add an industry veteran of Mark’s caliber to our talented leadership team,» said Jeff Waters, CEO at Maxeon Solar Technologies. «Mark brings extensive experience managing international high-performing teams and building sales channels to drive sustainable growth. These proven skills and his deep solar industry knowledge will help Maxeon continue our global downstream growth trajectory.» 

Babcock’s management career spans over two decades with 15 years of VP-level experience. Before joining Maxeon Solar Technologies, he was Managing Partner at Eurogility, a market entry consultancy firm. Prior to that, Babcock held senior positions in the distributed generation solar businesses of Flex, SunEdison and SunPower, with regional and global responsibilities. He also covered management roles at Carrier Corporation and United Technologies Fire and Security. Babcock began his career at NationsBank (now Bank of America).

«I am excited to join Maxeon at this pivotal stage of its evolution as an independent company and to work with such a passionate team to execute our strategy for growing the existing business in over 100 countries while expanding into new high-potential markets,» commented Babcock. «I look forward to helping achieve Maxeon’s compelling purpose by enabling our customers globally in Powering Positive Change.»

This appointment comes at a time of growth and expansion for Maxeon. In August the company became an independent public entity, spinning off from SunPower Corporation and being listed at NASDAQ. Babcock will be joining the growing Maxeon’s team at its Singapore Headquarters.

With Mark Babcock joining the company, Jim Dawe, Vice-President Global Sales and Marketing of SunPower Corporation, will transition his responsibilities to Mark during the remainder of the year.

For more on the Maxeon’s full leadership team, click here.

About Maxeon Solar Technologies
Maxeon Solar Technologies (NASDAQ:MAXN) is Powering Positive Change™. Headquartered in Singapore, Maxeon designs, manufactures and sells SunPower® brand solar panels in more than 100 countries, operating the SunPower brand worldwide except the United States and Canada. The company is a leader in solar innovation with access to over 900 patents and two best-in-class solar panel product lines. With operations in Africa, Asia, Oceania, Europe and Mexico, Maxeon products span the global rooftop and solar power plant markets through a network of more than 1,100 trusted partners and distributors. A pioneer in sustainable solar manufacturing, Maxeon leverages a 35-year history in the solar industry and numerous awards for its technology. For more information about how Maxeon is Powering Positive Change™ visit us at www.maxeon.com, on LinkedIn and on Twitter @maxeonsolar.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, but not limited to, statements regarding the timing and the company’s expectations of success in its expansion strategy in existing and in new markets. These forward-looking statements are based on our current assumptions, expectations and beliefs and involve substantial risks and uncertainties that may cause results, performance or achievement to materially differ from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.  A detailed discussion of these factors and other risks that affect our business is included in filings we make with the SEC from time to time, including our Form 20-F, which was declared effective by the SEC on August 4, 2020, particularly under the heading «Item 3.D. Risk Factors.» Copies of these filings are available online from the SEC or on the Financials & Filings section of our Investor Relations website at www.maxeon.com/financials-filings/sec-filings. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information currently available to us, and we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events.

© 2020 Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. All Rights Reserved. MAXEON is a registered trademark of Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd. Visit www.maxeon.com/trademarks for more information.

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SOURCE Maxeon Solar Technologies, Ltd.

High Schoolers from Richmond City and Augusta County Honored by U.S. Department of Energy

STAUNTON, Va., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Students from Open High School in Richmond and Fort Defiance High School in Augusta County made presentations yesterday in an online event sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon,® a collegiate competition that highlights student innovations in solar power and energy efficiency.

STAUNTON, Va., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Students from Open High School in Richmond and Fort Defiance High School in Augusta County made presentations yesterday in an online event sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon,® a collegiate competition that highlights student innovations in solar power and energy efficiency.

Student research came out of the Throwing Solar Shade® program, which paired students at the two schools for hands-on research in the emerging field of how clean energy technologies relate to temperatures in their local environment. The program was sponsored and organized by Secure Futures Solar, based in Staunton, Va., the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond, Va., and the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, a non-profit organization based in Manassas, Va. Students worked with the guidance of the museum’s Chief Scientist Jeremy Hoffman, while NEED provided curriculum support to the teachers.

«Throwing Solar Shade is powerful because it helps students connect science theory with real-life experiments and resiliency strategies they can apply in their communities,» said Hoffman. «By including youth, the work builds social cohesion and helps train the future green workforce. I enjoy working with teenagers to learn more about the science of climate change because they understand how it will impact their future and are passionate about taking action now. Working on this initiative has made me a stronger science communicator because I’ve heard directly from the teens about what matters to them and to their community.»

The event featured presentations by four students who participated in the pilot rollout of the Throwing Solar Shade curriculum in 2019-2020:

  • Caroline Miller, Fort Defiance High School, Augusta County, «Maximizing Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) Cell Efficiency»
  • Sherylynne Crookshanks, Fort Defiance High School, Augusta County, «Paint Before You Park»
  • Jack Salgado, Open High School, Richmond Public Schools, «Direct vs. Indirect Bandgap in Solar Panels»
  • Lauren Rhodes, Fort Defiance High School, Augusta County, «Solar Turkeys: Converting Poultry Houses to Solar Energy»

«Since the Solar Decathlon is a competition intended for college students, we are especially proud of our high schoolers for connecting with this prestigious program,» said Anthony Smith, President and Founder of Secure Futures. «They’re getting a head start on the kind of collaboration between educational institutions and businesses that has produced some of the most useful research across technical fields, including solar power.»

«Helping students find their voice through science and exploration is one of the most authentic ways to learn,» said Mary Spruill, Executive Director of NEED. 

«We are so proud of our students and their work in the Throwing Solar Shade Program,» said RPS Superintendent Jason Kamras. «We are grateful for Secure Futures, the Science Museum of Virginia, and Ms. Emily Betts (Science Teacher, Open High) for providing our students with opportunities, such as the Solar Decathlon, to showcase their amazing talents and creativity.» 

«We are extremely proud of the work our students have invested in their solar projects,» said Dr. Eric Bond, Superintendent of Augusta County Public Schools. «The learning and experiences gained from their involvement in the Throwing Solar Shade project truly reflect the 21st century learning we desire for our students. Many thanks to Secure Futures, the Science Museum of Virginia, and Fort Defiance High School teacher Cindy Schroer for making these amazing opportunities available to our students!» 

*** More information available at https://tinyurl.com/yb28zp6z ***

About the Science Museum of Virginia
From virtual presentations featuring STEM experts to fun videos on social media to in-person experiential exhibits, the Science Museum of Virginia looks for all opportunities to inspire Virginians to enrich their lives through science. Helping curious minds discover the connections between—and their connection to—science, technology, engineering and math guides Museum staff in all they do. Learn more at www.smv.org or call 804.864.1400.

About NEED
The NEED Project designs and delivers teacher-tested educational materials, evaluation techniques and tools, recognition of student achievement, and professional development for educators. NEED materials and training programs provide comprehensive, objective information about the scientific concepts of energy and the sources of energy – their use and their impact on the environment, the economy and society. design and deliver objective, multi-sided energy education programs. Learn more at www.need.org.

About Secure Futures, LLC
As a market and policy leader, Secure Futures builds, owns, manages and funds affordable Resilient Solar Solutions® for hospitals, schools and businesses.  Headquartered in Staunton, Va., the company combines state-of–the-art solar technology with an innovative business model to make commercial scale solar readily affordable in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, helping customers to realize the economic, environmental, and community benefits of solar energy.  In 2017, Secure Futures became a Certified B Corporation®, having met the exacting standards for social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability established by the nonprofit B Lab®. For more information: www.securefutures.solar.

Media Contacts:

Jennifer Guild
Science Museum of Virginia
(804) 864-1401
jguild@smv.org

Erik Curren
Secure Futures Solar
(540) 466-6128
erik@securefutures.solar

 

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SOURCE Secure Futures LLC

New Vehicle Sales Expected to Close 2020 Stronger Than Anticipated, According to Edmunds

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The car shopping experts at Edmunds forecast that 4,036,744 new cars and trucks will be sold in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2020. This reflects a 2.8% increase in sales from the third quarter but a 5.7% decrease from Q4 of 2019. Edmunds analysts also estimate that 14,416,447 new vehicles will be sold in 2020, which reflects a 15.5% decrease in sales from 2019. Although this will put 2020 on track to be the lowest sales year for the automotive…

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — The car shopping experts at Edmunds forecast that 4,036,744 new cars and trucks will be sold in the U.S. in the fourth quarter of 2020. This reflects a 2.8% increase in sales from the third quarter but a 5.7% decrease from Q4 of 2019. Edmunds analysts also estimate that 14,416,447 new vehicles will be sold in 2020, which reflects a 15.5% decrease in sales from 2019. Although this will put 2020 on track to be the lowest sales year for the automotive industry since 2012, Edmunds experts say that the number is much stronger than expected given major disruptions created by the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

«A big comeback story of 2020 is without a doubt the recovery of retail vehicle sales» – Jessica Caldwell, Edmunds

«Thinking back to the dire state of the market at the outset of the pandemic, it’s such a testament to the incredible durability of the entire automotive industry — and the resilience of the American consumer — that we’ve seen such a healthy rebound in new car purchases this year,» said Jessica Caldwell, Edmunds’ executive director of insights.  «A big comeback story of 2020 is without a doubt the recovery of retail vehicle sales, which have nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels.»

Edmunds experts note that the steady rise in average transaction prices (ATP) was another bright spot for the industry, because the increase also helped drive profitability for automakers and dealers. Edmunds analysts anticipate that the ATP for new vehicles will surpass the $40,000 mark for the first time on record in December as consumers continue to show no qualms about upsizing their purchases in favor of bigger vehicles with more amenities.

«It’s certainly not much of a buyer’s market right now: Inventory is still in short supply in certain areas, and automakers and dealers aren’t faced with the pressure to use big discounts to clear out their lots like they normally do at this time of year,» said Caldwell. «Although that’s not stopping higher-earning consumers from continuing to enter the new market like they have throughout 2020, car shoppers who are a bit more price-sensitive might want to skip holiday shopping and wait until next year if they’re looking for big bargains.»

Looking ahead to 2021, Edmunds analysts note that there are still uncertainties ahead, but they remain confident that industry sales will continue at a steady pace without a dramatic decline like the one seen at the outset of the pandemic.

«Even if we face another wave of retail shutdowns, the good news is that dealers are far better prepared now for selling virtually than ever before,» said Caldwell. «And vaccines on the way should only help keep consumer confidence high.»

QUARTERLY SALES VOLUME FORECAST, BY MANUFACTURER

Sales
Volume

2020 Q4
Forecast

Q4 2019
Sales

Q3 2020
Sales

Change
from Q4
2019

Change
from Q3
2020

GM

753,811

735,909

665,277

2.4%

13.3%

Toyota

652,940

604,017

558,449

8.1%

16.9%

Ford

517,309

601,862

551,796

-14.0%

-6.2%

FCA

498,042

542,519

507,351

-8.2%

-1.8%

Honda

365,915

401,961

388,433

-9.0%

-5.8%

Hyundai/Kia

341,337

340,482

339,586

0.3%

0.5%

Nissan

224,231

301,291

221,150

-25.6%

1.4%

VW/Audi

135,282

150,807

135,063

-10.3%

0.2%

Industry

4,036,744

4,280,263

3,924,968

-5.7%

2.8%

QUARTERLY MARKET SHARE FORECAST, BY MANUFACTURER

Market
Share

2020 Q4
Forecast

 Q4 2019
Sales

Q3 2020
Sales

Change
from Q4
2019

Change
from Q3
2020

GM

18.7%

17.2%

16.9%

8.6%

10.2%

Toyota

16.2%

14.1%

14.2%

14.6%

13.7%

Ford

12.8%

14.1%

14.1%

-8.9%

-8.8%

FCA

12.3%

12.7%

12.9%

-2.7%

-4.6%

Honda

9.1%

9.4%

9.9%

-3.5%

-8.4%

Hyundai/Kia

8.5%

8.0%

8.7%

6.3%

-2.3%

Nissan

5.6%

7.0%

5.6%

-21.1%

-1.4%

VW/Audi

3.4%

3.5%

3.4%

-4.9%

-2.6%

 

ANNUAL SALES VOLUME FORECAST, BY MANUFACTURER

SALES
VOLUME

2020 Forecast

2019 Sales

Change from
2019

GM

2,530,168

2,887,046

-12.4%

Toyota

2,105,165

2,382,852

-11.7%

Ford

2,019,304

2,422,698

-16.7%

FCA

1,819,247

2,203,663

-17.4%

Honda

1,346,634

1,608,170

-16.3%

Hyundai/Kia

1,224,397

1,323,496

-7.5%

Nissan

880,315

1,345,681

-34.6%

VW/Audi

492,539

587,433

-16.2%

Industry

14,416,447

17,058,892

-15.5%

ANNUAL MARKET SHARE FORECAST, BY MANUFACTURER

Market  Share

2020  Forecast

2019 Sales

Change from
2019

GM

17.6%

16.9%

4%

Toyota

14.6%

14.0%

5%

Ford

14.0%

14.2%

-1%

FCA

12.6%

12.9%

-2%

Honda

9.3%

9.4%

-1%

Hyundai/Kia

8.5%

7.8%

9%

Nissan

6.1%

7.9%

-23%

VW/Audi

3.4%

3.4%

-1%

More insight into recent auto industry trends can be found in the Edmunds Industry Center at http://www.edmunds.com/industry-center/.

About Edmunds

Edmunds guides car shoppers online from research to purchase. With in-depth reviews of every new vehicle, shopping tips from an in-house team of experts, plus a wealth of consumer and automotive market insights, Edmunds helps millions of shoppers each month select, price and buy a car with confidence. Regarded as one of America’s best workplaces by Fortune and Great Place to Work, Edmunds is based in Santa Monica, California, and has a satellite office in Detroit, Michigan. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

CONTACT:
Talia James-Armand
Associate Director, PR & Communications
PR@Edmunds.com
310-309-4900
http://edmunds.com/about/press

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SOURCE Edmunds

Haitong International First Announces Net Zero Carbon Emissions Target among all HK Financial Institutions

HONG KONG, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Haitong International Securities Group Limited («Haitong International», Stock Code: 665.HK) recently published its first Haitong International ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Statement, pledging to achieve Carbon Neutrality by the end of 2025 with ESG practices implemented to promote Energy Conservation and Sustainable Finance. This is the first publicized commitment for Carbon Neutrality in Hong Kong financial circle, 25 years ahead of the city’s target.

Dr….

HONG KONG, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Haitong International Securities Group Limited («Haitong International», Stock Code: 665.HK) recently published its first Haitong International ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Statement, pledging to achieve Carbon Neutrality by the end of 2025 with ESG practices implemented to promote Energy Conservation and Sustainable Finance. This is the first publicized commitment for Carbon Neutrality in Hong Kong financial circle, 25 years ahead of the city’s target.

Dr. Lin Yong, JP, Deputy Chairman and CEO of Haitong International, said: «Haitong International is committed to providing comprehensive professional financial services for its clients around the world, and at the same time strives to implement ESG principles across all areas of its operations. In the future, Haitong International will continue to create positive environmental and social values through each of its businesses and decisions. Capitalizing on our unique capital intermediary role in investment, financing, consultancy, research and brokerage, Haitong International is capable of bringing ‘Impact Investment’ into play and strives to become a world’s leading investment bank with a clear focus on sustainable finance, contributing to Hong Kong’s position as a global ESG investment hub in Asia

According to the Statement, Haitong International will gradually cut down on its carbon emissions through reducing energy consumption and utilizing renewable energy. Carbon credits will be purchased to offset any remaining carbon emissions to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions, i.e. Carbon Neutrality by the end of 2025.

Haitong International will also advocate the «Reduce, Reuse, Recycle» concept throughout the Group, and aims to power its operations with 100% renewable energy and reduce its annual paper consumption and waste generation per capita by at least 30% by the end of 2025 (compared to the end of 2020). The Group encourages replacing high carbon-emitting business activities such as business trips and bulk printing with alternatives. The Group will keep track of its greenhouse gas emission metrics in line with the ISO 14064 standard and disclose the data in its annual ESG report.

In support of Sustainable Finance, Haitong International aims to deploy or provide USD20 billion in ESG and sustainable financing and investment by the end of 2025. To achieve this, Haitong International will establish a firm-wide incentive system to encourage its staff to devote efforts towards green financing and sustainable businesses such as green bonds and ESG-themed products.

Haitong International will also include ESG risk assessment in its investment decision-making process, and gradually turn away from heavily polluting and energy-wasting corporate financing and investment activities. It will proactively support the development of renewable and clean energy, environmental protection and green industries.

In addition, Haitong International has set up the ESG Committee and ESG Executive Office under the Group’s Executive Committee, responsible for managing the Group’s ESG initiatives and directing the implementation of the above ESG strategies throughout the Group’s global operations.

In October 2020, Haitong International launched the Haitong MSCI China A ESG ETF (Ticker: 3031.HK), which is currently the only ETF in Hong Kong offering broad ESG investment exposure on China A-shares. As of 1 December 2020, Haitong International has underwritten 13 green bond issuances, amounting to a total of more than USD3.2 billion. In the ECM space, Haitong International has participated in green projects including China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle’s equity placement and the IPO of Beijing Enterprises Urban Resources in Hong Kong this year.

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SOURCE Haitong International

Poor credit isn’t just affecting Americans’ finances–it’s impacting their entire lifestyle, new Credit Sesame survey finds

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Americans with poor credit are being hit hard by the system, and they know it, a new survey from Credit Sesame finds. Moreover, their experience of the credit system differs greatly from those with good credit and impacts nearly every aspect of their lives—from mental…

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Americans with poor credit are being hit hard by the system, and they know it, a new survey from Credit Sesame finds. Moreover, their experience of the credit system differs greatly from those with good credit and impacts nearly every aspect of their lives—from mental health and personal relationships to living situations.

According to the research, which surveyed 5,000 adults in the United States, those with poor credit scores (300-549) are overwhelmingly young, female, and have a high school education or less. They’ve also been hit harder by the pandemic than most—61 percent said it would take them between one and five years or more to recover financially, compared to 34 percent of Americans overall. And, they report a completely different experience with credit than the norm. Half (50 percent) said their first experience with credit was negative, and even more—61 percent—said their overall experience with credit was negative, compared to 18 percent of Americans overall.

«When I went to college they basically threw me a credit card and I didn’t know how to do it or what it was really all about,» said a respondent in the survey. «So I maxed them out and then was given more to spend and maxed that out and then screwed myself over.»

This dichotomy is especially evident in how a credit score has hurt or helped them. Almost all Americans with poor credit (94 percent) can identify how their credit score has negatively affected them in life. Over half (57 percent) have to operate on cash or debit because they don’t have a credit card, and half can’t buy a home or qualify for a car loan. Further:

  • 28 percent can’t rent the apartment they want
  • 22 percent can’t lease a cell phone
  • 20 percent can’t get a business loan
  • 19 percent have had to live with their parents longer than preferred
  • 14 percent have missed out on a job opportunity
  • 10 percent have had problems with romantic relationships

Of those with poor credit, 79 percent say their credit score induces negative feelings: 49 percent are «worried», 46 percent are «ashamed», and 30 percent are «angry». This presents a striking difference with Americans with good or excellent credit who cite the positive feelings their credit score induces: 40 percent are «proud», 40 percent are «happy», and 34 percent feel «fine». Almost half of those with poor credit (49 percent) try to hide their credit score from others—nearly twice as many as the broader population (26 percent).

«It’s expensive to be credit poor, and the costs are more than just financial,» said Jay Moon, General Manager of Credit, Credit Sesame. «Our recent survey shows that poor credit takes a toll on mental health and the kinds of lifestyle opportunities people can access. The term ‘credit worthiness’ gets thrown around a lot, but this survey shows that it’s also about someone’s self worth and how they operate day-to-day.»

When asked what factors had contributed to their credit score, 89 percent of those with poor credit cited barriers: almost half (48 percent) have bills in collections, 40 percent say they can’t keep up with bills or can’t afford to make payments, 32 percent have had unexpected medical expenses, and 28 percent have been unemployed for longer than six months.

This contrasts starkly with the experience of those who have good (640-719) or excellent (720+) credit, who cited positives (87 percent) rather than barriers:

  • 56 percent said they had many years of good credit history – just four percent of those with poor credit said this
  • 50 percent said they had always kept up on expenses – just three percent of those with poor credit said this
  • 49 percent said they had never or rarely made a late payment – less than five percent of those with poor credit said this
  • 45 percent said they had worked really hard to build good credit – less than five percent of those with poor credit said this

And, people with poor credit believe the system is unfair. Whereas 66 percent of respondents overall said they believed their credit score was an accurate reflection of whether they could be trusted to pay back a loan, just 38 percent of those with poor credit agreed. Furthermore, about a third (34 percent) of those with poor credit believe the financial services sector exists to hurt them.

While they are clearly frustrated with a system that appears to be stacked against them, many with poor credit say they are working hard to improve their credit score and financial situation by reducing debt (29 percent), signing up for a credit monitoring service (15 percent), working side jobs (14 percent), and using credit cards carefully (14 percent)—just 19 percent have given it up as a lost cause.

«The good news is that we are seeing more and more consumers take control of their own data to improve their credit score,» said Moon. «It’s a long game, but it starts with small steps.»

Methodology
Credit Sesame conducted this research using an online survey prepared by Method Research and distributed by Dynata among n=5,000 adults in the United States. The sample was balanced by census targets for age, gender and ethnicity to be nationally representative of the US population. Data was collected from October 16 to October 30, 2020. 

About Credit Sesame
Credit Sesame’s mission is to help consumers work toward financial stability and ultimately create better opportunities for themselves and their families. Strong credit health is inextricably linked to financial health and stability, and with the launch of Sesame Cash, Credit Sesame will help consumers manage both. Credit Sesame has helped millions of consumers improve their credit scores, increase their approval odds, lower the cost of credit and save money. Credit Sesame is funded by leading venture capital firms and strategic investors, including Menlo Ventures, Inventus Capital, Globespan Capital, IA Capital Groups, NortonLifeLock, Capital One Ventures, and Stanford University, among others. Credit Sesame currently operates in the U.S. and Canada. For more information on Credit Sesame, visit www.creditsesame.com and follow on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

 

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SOURCE Credit Sesame

LevelTen Energy Announces New RE-Store™ Energy Agreement, Paving the Way for More Utility-Scale Storage Development

SEATTLE, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Today LevelTen Energy announced its RE-Store™ Energy Agreement, an innovative financial contract that enables corporations and Load-Serving Entities easier access to the economic and risk-reducing benefits of energy storage projects. The agreement, developed in collaboration…

SEATTLE, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Today LevelTen Energy announced its RE-Store™ Energy Agreement, an innovative financial contract that enables corporations and Load-Serving Entities easier access to the economic and risk-reducing benefits of energy storage projects. The agreement, developed in collaboration with EnergyGPS, opens the door to billions of dollars of investment in large-scale energy storage projects by providing buyers a practical way to contract with storage developers, and by guaranteeing a revenue stream to developers to support project financing.

LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement is an important industry breakthrough because storage, at scale, is key to enabling the transition to a grid powered by 100% renewable energy. The agreement was designed with the flexibility to complement a renewable energy power purchase agreement (PPA), whether existing or planned, or to be executed independent of any particular energy generation project or PPA. Either use case dramatically simplifies the storage procurement process and increases buyers’ options by orders of magnitude.

LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement, which is now available through LevelTen and its partners, delivers three main benefits to buyers:

  • 1. Reduced Portfolio Volatility: Because the economic value of storage is often inversely related to that of a renewable energy PPA (i.e., it has a tendency to perform well—or generate a positive cash flow—when a PPA contract does not, and vice versa), LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement can serve as a hedge, complementing existing renewable energy contracts and reducing the cash flow volatility of a buyer’s energy portfolio. The agreement is particularly effective in markets with high (or rapidly increasing) renewable energy penetration.
  • 2. No Operational Risk: With a RE-Store™ Energy Agreement, the developer receives a guaranteed, fixed revenue stream and, in exchange, pays the buyer the difference in value between the highest and lowest hourly prices that occur in the wholesale energy market each day. But because the agreement is a purely financial contract, buyers don’t take on the technology risk or operational responsibilities of a more conventional storage procurement. Instead, buyers receive payments based on how an optimized storage project should have performed, not based on actual performance, while also avoiding accounting triggers.
  • 3. Flexible Locations: Because the RE-Store™ Energy Agreement is settled financially, not physically, the storage project doesn’t need to be co-located with an energy generation project. The structure allows buyers to select storage projects with the best economics, rather than simply accept the storage project that happens to be co-located with their renewable energy project.

Just as virtual PPAs ushered in a wave of corporate investment in wind, solar and other renewable projects, LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement is poised to catalyze investment in utility-scale storage projects.

«Though the cost of utility-scale storage has plummeted in recent years, and many utilities and load-serving entities are investing in storage to support their operations, the industry has thus far lacked the transaction infrastructure to deliver reliable value streams to both storage buyers and storage owners,» said Bryce Smith, Chief Executive Officer, LevelTen Energy. «LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement closes this gap by delivering a guaranteed revenue stream to developers, which is key for project financing. Furthermore, as a financially-settled contract, the agreement affords storage owners full operational control, allowing projects to optimize all asset revenues, including capacity and ancillary services.»

Any entities interested in using LevelTen’s RE-Store™ Energy Agreement should contact LevelTen at info@leveltenenergy.com.

About LevelTen Energy
LevelTen Energy is the leading provider of transaction infrastructure for the renewable energy economy. The platform delivers buyers, sellers, advisors, and financiers the automation software, data management, and standardized contracts needed to facilitate faster, safer renewable energy transactions. LevelTen’s marketplace of renewable energy power purchase agreements is the world’s largest, with more than 4,000 pricing offers spanning 21 countries in North America and Europe. LevelTen’s CFO-Ready Analytics™ automatically calculate more than a billion data points every day, providing buyers and advisors with leading-edge, real-time risk and value insights at modern market scale. Together, LevelTen and its partners share #OneGoal to accelerate the clean energy transition. Visit us at LevelTenEnergy.com to learn more.

Media Contact

Christin Camacho, LevelTen, 206-531-0487, Christin@leveltenenergy.com

 

SOURCE LevelTen

Mobility Unlimited Challenge Winner Receives $1M for Ultra-lightweight Intelligent Wheelchair

LONDON, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The winner of the three-year Mobility Unlimited Challenge has now been announced with Phoenix Instinct from the UK receiving $1 million to further develop their intelligent ultra-light carbon fiber wheelchair, bring it to market, and ultimately, transform millions of lives in the disability community for the greater good.

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LONDON, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The winner of the three-year Mobility Unlimited Challenge has now been announced with Phoenix Instinct from the UK receiving $1 million to further develop their intelligent ultra-light carbon fiber wheelchair, bring it to market, and ultimately, transform millions of lives in the disability community for the greater good.

The Toyota Mobility Foundation, established by Toyota in 2014, launched the $4 million global challenge back in 2017 in partnership with Nesta Challenges, in a bid to drive innovation in the field of assistive technologies for people with lower-limb paralysis in a demonstration of Toyota’s mission of Mobility for All and further vision of producing happiness for all.   

The Challenge called for talented engineers, innovators, and designers from around the world to submit their designs for groundbreaking devices, integrated with the latest technologies, to enhance the mobility and independence of end users. Over eighty teams from 28 countries around the world entered.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) led the assessment of the entries and provided mentorship alongside a team of Toyota subject matter experts, and the winner was chosen by a panel of expert judges (see Notes to Editors below for details).

Designed by Phoenix Instinct, the Phoenix i uses intelligent systems to automatically adjust its center of gravity, making the ultra-lightweight carbon fiber frame extremely stable and easier to maneuver. It uses front-wheel power-assist to reduce painful vibrations and minimize strain on the user. The chair’s intelligent powered braking system automatically detects when the user is going downhill and adjusts to manage the user’s descent.

Andrew Slorance from Phoenix Instinct said: «Winning the Toyota Mobility Unlimited Challenge is incredible for Phoenix Instinct and for wheelchair users. The wheelchair as we know it has been technologically unchanged for decades. The funding we received through the Challenge allowed us to prove smart technology makes for an easier to use and safer wheelchair with the potential for a suite of new features. With the prize money we can now advance this work and bring the Phoenix I wheelchair to the consumer.

It’s a very exciting time with Toyota moving into the mobility sector, we’re going to see significant advances in mobility devices. At Phoenix Instinct we’re thrilled to be leading the smart wheelchair revolution.»

Sir Philip Craven, member of the Board of Directors at Toyota Motor Corporation and former President of the International Paralympic Committee shared: «Mobility means freedom. It means liberation from being limited in life. As we believe at Toyota, when we are free to move, we are able to fully participate in society, and I’m excited for each of these devices supported by the Mobility Unlimited Challenge, particularly the winning device, because of how it will allow so many people to better do what they want to do.»

Ryan Klem, Director of Programs for Toyota Mobility Foundation commented: «The entire competition has been an enriching journey for us all, bringing together the efforts of many experts, mentors, advocates, and more to invest in the five finalists to develop their devices and bring them into the lives of people that need them. We are thrilled to announce Phoenix Instinct as the winner of the Mobility Unlimited Challenge. The judges were impressed by the way the device incorporated intelligent systems in its design in a way that represents a true advance for the wheelchair and could see it having a clear route to market. TMF is dedicated to continuing to support these passionate teams, and we hope, through this process, that all the teams are able to find resources to do the same as they have all shown incredible creativity and innovation. We believe this Challenge will result in huge improvements in assistive technology and are extremely proud of what all of the teams have achieved.»

Liz Vossen of Nesta Challenges said: «For too long, the disability community has faced restricted mobility and accessibility. The coronavirus pandemic has forced a change in attitudes towards remote working, showing that it is possible to be present and productive at home.  However, the pandemic also highlighted the need for non-disabled people to have a better understanding of the importance of mobility for all. We hope that these devices will improve the mobility of people across the world and contribute to a more inclusive future.»

The four other finalists were:

  • The Evowalk: Evolution Devices (United States) – a smart wearable simulator that goes right below the knee and uses artificial intelligence to support your muscles at the right time aiding in rehabilitating walking and preventing falls for people with foot drop.
  • Qolo (Quality of Life with Locomotion): Team Qolo, University of Tsukuba (Japan) – a standing mobility device that integrates exoskeleton and wheelchair functions. It supports the function of standing and sitting with a passive assist mechanism for people with lower limb paralysis.
  • Quix: IHMC & MYOLYN (United States) – a highly mobile, powered exoskeleton offering fast, stable and agile upright mobility.
  • Wheem-i: Italdesign (Italy) – a wheel-on semi-autonomous electric device that provides ride sharing for wheelchair users. It is primarily designed for micro mobility and is usable on a variety of surfaces.

At its core, the Challenge was developed to highlight the importance of collaboration with end-users and create inventions with the disability community in mind. It supports the UN’s Sustainable Development goals, specifically Goal #10 of reducing inequalities in supporting devices that help people with paralysis better access society for economic, social, educational and other opportunities.  Key specifications for choosing the winning invention included devices that will integrate seamlessly into people’s lives and environments while being comfortable and easy to use, enabling greater independence and increased participation in daily life. The judging criteria was based on innovation, insight and impact, functionality and usability, quality and safety, and market potential and affordability. 

Around the world, millions of people are living with lower-limb paralysis (the most common causes being strokes, spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis). While there are no statistics on paralysis worldwide, the World Health Organization estimates there are 250,000-500,000 new cases of spinal cord injury globally every year.

Mobility Unlimited Challenge Judging Panel:

  • Professor Linamara Battistella, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine doctor at the University of Sao Paulo (Brazil)
  • Winfried Beigel, Director of Research and Development for Otto Bock Mobility Solutions (Germany)
  • Dr. Mary Ellen Buning, President-elect for the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (United States)
  • Dr. Kay Kim, President of NT Robot Co (South Korea)
  • Dr. Eric Krotkov, Chief Science Officer at Toyota Research Institute (United States)
  • Eric LeGrand, disability rights advocate (United States)
  • Sophie Morgan, television presenter and disability advocate (United Kingdom)
  • Ruth Peachment, Occupational Therapy Clinical Specialist at the National Spinal Injuries Centre (United Kingdom)
  • Matthew Reeve, Director of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation (United States)
  • Dr. Yoshiyuki Sankai, President of robotics company Cyberdyne (Japan)
  • Dr. Lloyd Walker, professional rehabilitation engineer at Tech4Life (Australia)

About Toyota Mobility Foundation

The Toyota Mobility Foundation was established in August 2014 to support the development of a more mobile society. The Foundation aims to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise in technology, safety, and the environment, working in partnership with universities, governments, non-profit organizations, research institutions and other organizations to address mobility issues around the world. Programs include resolving urban transportation problems, expanding the utilization of personal mobility, and developing solutions for next generation mobility.

Learn more at www.toyotamobilityfoundation.org.

About Nesta Challenges
Across the world, there are many people and communities that are overlooked and underserved, facing ever more complex challenges. Nesta Challenges tackles some of these problems by harnessing and fostering innovation, fresh thinking and technology to achieve positive impact.

From health to conservation, finance to agriculture, assistive technology to education, we connect people, businesses and experts to drive fresh thinking and deliver systemic change.

Nesta Challenges uses prizes to stimulate innovative solutions to some of the biggest challenges we face, including:

  • The Longitude Prize, created to tackle growing levels of antimicrobial resistance and reduce the use of antibiotics.
  • The Inclusive Technology Prize, a challenge prize to encourage innovations that gives disabled people equal access to life’s opportunities.
  • The UNDP’s Renewable Energy Challenge Prize, to find a renewable energy solution capable of providing off-grid power to cover the needs of war-returnee families in rural Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • The Dynamic Demand Challenge Prize, created to reduce carbon emissions by shifting energy demand to off peak times or through excess renewable generation.

To find out more visit https://www.nesta.org.uk/project/nesta-challenges/

About HERL
The Human Engineering Research Laboratories (HERL) has been at the forefront of assistive technology research for 25 years. A collaboration between the University of Pittsburgh, the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, and the UPMC Health System, HERL is dedicated to wheelchair and mobility research, specifically by improving the mobility and function of Veterans and all people with disabilities through advanced engineering in clinical research and medical rehabilitation on local, national, and international levels. Using state-of-the-art laboratories and research instruments, HERL also studies robotics in assistive technology, athletics in rehabilitation, assistive living spaces, wheelchair transfer efficiency, clinician training, and force and vibration on wheelchair users.

Photo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1387958/Toyota_Mobility_Foundation_Phoenix_Instinct.jpg  

SOURCE Toyota Mobility Foundation

Porsche Taycan Charges Ahead in First Year on American Roads

ATLANTA, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Porsche wrote a new chapter in its history one year ago when the first Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo models were delivered to customers in the U.S. in late December 2019. Following much anticipation, and an unveiling that took place simultaneously on three continents in September 2019, new owners on the East and West Coast became the first people in the world to receive their Taycan keys. One year…

ATLANTA, Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Porsche wrote a new chapter in its history one year ago when the first Taycan Turbo S and Taycan Turbo models were delivered to customers in the U.S. in late December 2019. Following much anticipation, and an unveiling that took place simultaneously on three continents in September 2019, new owners on the East and West Coast became the first people in the world to receive their Taycan keys. One year later, the pioneering model has established itself on American roads, instantly becoming a milestone in its own right. The Taycan brings the unmistakable Porsche design DNA and performance into a new powertrain future as the brand’s «soul, electrified.»

Successful sales despite challenges

Since the first cars last December, more than 4,000 customers have driven off in a new Taycan (including over 1,100 in California). During the third quarter, the Taycan Turbo S, Turbo and 4S became the third-best selling Porsche model line in the U.S., trailing only the Macan and Cayenne SUVs. The rapid results have been achieved even with manufacturing shutdowns and delays for several weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic. Despite those unforeseen challenges, the Taycan is on track to close a successful first year on the American market.

Porsche enthusiasts were quick to appreciate the achievements of the Taycan, which has also attracted new customers to the brand. More than a third of new owners were previously driving vehicles from other brands before getting behind the wheel of a Taycan.

Record performance

The Taycan’s pace has been relentless since its launch – from new additions being added to the range, including the Turbo and 4S models (including a Cross Turismo on the way), to our claim to it being our first electric sports car thoroughly tested on both the road and on the track, just like any other Porsche.

The Taycan has started setting records with its capabilities, including a benchmark lap time for production electric vehicles set by Taycan Turbo S at the iconic Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, where professional race car driver Leh Keen completed the 2.54-mile track in 1:33.88 minutes. Away from the track, the Taycan was awarded the World Car Awards’ World Performance Car and Luxury Car Awards and was announced as the Center of Automotive Management’s Most Innovative Model for 2020.

Continued development

The Taycan premiered with a pioneering 800-volt architecture, which enables extremely fast charging of the battery. The charging time from five to 80 percent State of Charge (SoC) is just 22.5 minutes, with a maximum charging power (peak) of up to 270 kW, and the customer benefits continue to be improved. A simplified and seamless payment technology through the ultra-fast Electrify America network called Plug&Charge allows owners of Model Year 2021 vehicles to plug in the cable and see authentication handled automatically as the charging station identifies the connected car and can process payments securely and seamlessly. In addition, new battery preservation methods will be available soon that also regulate charging capacity at suitable charge points to extend battery life and reduce overall power loss during charging.

Inside the cabin, passengers can enjoy the Taycan’s industry-leading Apple CarPlayÒ integration. Forthcoming updates include location-based Smartlift of the vehicle’s front end on models with adaptive air suspension, and Porsche Innodrive, which adjusts the speed of the car to the conditions up to 1.5 miles ahead, with specific consideration for speed limits, turns, traffic circles, and situations where you have to yield or stop.

With continued updates to the Taycan, and more new models to follow its lead, the first fully-electric Porsche has launched off the line to set a rapid pace for years to come.

About Porsche Cars North America, Inc. | One Porsche Drive, Atlanta, GA 30354 USA

Kjell Gruner is President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), where he is responsible for both the United States and Canada. He also heads the executive leadership team of Porsche Digital, Inc., the sports car manufacturer’s digital subsidiary in the U.S.

Kjell Gruner first joined Porsche in 1999 as a Senior Manager in Marketing, Planning and Strategy, after beginning his career at Boston Consulting Group. In 2004, he joined Daimler AG, most recently as Director Strategy Mercedes-Benz Cars, before returning to Porsche AG in 2010 as CMO.

Kjell Gruner studied and has a doctorate in Industrial Engineering and Marketing in Germany and the United States.

Gruner’s complete bio is available at newsroom.porsche.com.

Established in 1984, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA) is the exclusive U.S. importer of the Porsche 911, 718 Boxster, 718 Cayman, Macan, Cayenne, Panamera and Taycan. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1998, PCNA is also home to the first Porsche Experience Center in North America featuring a module-based 1.6 mile driver development track, business center, and fine dining restaurant, 356. The company operates a second Porsche Experience Center near Los Angeles. That 53-acre complex features a driver development track with eight educational modules totaling 4.1 miles, a business center, and Restaurant 917. PCNA supports 192 independently owned and operated Porsche dealerships in the U.S., including supplying parts, service, marketing, and training. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the Porsche brand’s 70-year history of leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency. PCNA is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.

At the core of this success is Porsche’s proud racing heritage that boasts some 30,000-plus motorsport wins to date.

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Photos and video footage are available to accredited journalists on the Porsche Press Database at http://press.porsche.com/.

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SOURCE Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

Hitachi Vantara and Rainforest Connection Analyze Tree Top Eco-Acoustic Data to Predict and Prevent Illegal Logging

SANTA CLARA and SAN FRANCISCO Calif., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Hitachi Vantara, the digital infrastructure and solutions subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), and <a target="_blank"…

SANTA CLARA and SAN FRANCISCO Calif., Dec. 17, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Hitachi Vantara, the digital infrastructure and solutions subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), and Rainforest Connection, the non-profit that uses real-time data to enable partners to stop deforestation and poaching, have developed a unique solution that uses eco-acoustic data to predict illegal logging in the world’s rainforests.

Every two seconds[1], an area of rainforest the size of a football field is destroyed, causing the extinction of hundreds of animal and plant species every year, contributing to droughts, and threatening indigenous reserves across multiple continents. Deforestation accounts for 10%[2] of all worldwide carbon emissions, making it a massive contributor to global warming, with up to 90%[3] of deforestation attributed to illegal logging.

Rainforest Connection builds devices called ‘Guardians’ that are installed high in the rainforest canopy to collect acoustic data from the rainforest. The company detects chainsaw events in real-time and sends rangers an audio file to review, verify and reference to arrange to go on site. This entire process can take up to 14 days and in some cases trees are lost by the time rangers arrive.

Hitachi Vantara has created a new solution to help predict illegal rainforest activity and shorten rangers’ time to site. Using the company’s Lumada data analytics technology, Hitachi Vantara built algorithms that create a baseline of rainforest sounds. This bio-acoustic signature then simplifies and accelerates the process of identifying acoustic anomalies. For example, before starting a chainsaw, loggers will typically scout appropriate locations in advance. Their presence causes a change in species’ acoustic signatures and signals a disruption to the environment. Hitachi Vantara’s solution detects these advance warnings and alerts rangers in real-time. Rangers use this technology get up to five days lead time to arrive on site. This head start gives rangers valuable time to pre-position themselves and prevent even more deforestation than they can today.

With both companies sharing common ideals of social responsibility to the environment, Hitachi Vantara and Rainforest Connection established a partnership in 2019. At Hitachi’s conference, NEXT 2019, Hitachi Vantara announced the partnership and donated $250,000 in cash and in-kind services to Rainforest Connection to support its mission. Hitachi Vantara and Rainforest Connection have since worked together to co-create and design the bio-acoustic solution. The solution is now live in Sumatra, where over 70% of all deforestation is illegal[4]. The solution is scheduled to rollout to the entire network of Rainforest Connection guardians, located in over 11 countries, in 2021.

«The projects with Hitachi Vantara are game-changing for Rainforest Connection,» said Topher White, CEO, Rainforest Connection. «We’ll be able to scale up our operations and provide rangers with greater certainty around when logging events are likely to happen.»

«The rainforest of Sumatra and Silicon Valley may be separated by thousands of miles, but data is the bridge between us, and has to be the foundation for solving some of our planet’s biggest challenges,» said Gajen Kandiah, Chief Executive Officer, Hitachi Vantara. «At Hitachi, we believe in the power of data to benefit both business and society. We are immensely proud to partner with Rainforest Connection to make a meaningful difference in the fight against climate change.»

1 https://www.wwf.org.uk/learn/effects-of/deforestation 
2 https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/articles/relationship-between-deforestation-climate-change 
3 https://wwf.panda.org/discover/our_focus/forests_practice/deforestation_causes2/illegal_logging/?
4
 https://archive.is/20130414200511/http://www.foei.org/en/resources/publications/miscellaneous/clashes/indonesiatrees.html 

Resources

Connect with Hitachi Vantara

About Rainforest Connection
Rainforest Connection (RFCx) has created the world’s first scalable, real-time monitoring system for protecting and studying remote ecosystems. Unlike visual based tracking systems (such as drones or satellites), the RFCx approach relies on acoustic sensors (RFCx Guardians) that will monitor the ecosystem soundscape at selected locations 365 days a year. With over six years of experience operating in rainforests around the world, RFCx technology acts as a force multiplier which does much of the monitoring and analysis work for a fraction of the cost. RFCx technology is advancing through a comprehensive biodiversity monitoring program that allows the local partners to measure progress of wildlife restoration and recovery through principles of adaptive management. The audio recordings being collected from online RFCx Guardiandetect and analyze everything from illegal activities to primates, birds, frogs, insects, bats, and countless other groups of organisms. Acoustic data is extremely rich in information about the makeup of an ecosystem. The RFCx monitoring platform has the capacity to create CNN models for analysis.

About Hitachi Vantara
Hitachi Vantara, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., guides our customers from what’s now to what’s next by solving their digital challenges. Working alongside each customer, we apply our unmatched industrial and digital capabilities to their data and applications to benefit both business and society. More than 80% of the Fortune 100 trust Hitachi Vantara to help them develop new revenue streams, unlock competitive advantages, lower costs, enhance customer experiences, and deliver social and environmental value. Visit us at www.hitachivantara.com.

About Hitachi, Ltd.
Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is focused on its Social Innovation Business that combines information technology (IT), operational technology (OT) and products. The company’s consolidated revenues for fiscal year 2019 (ended March 31, 2020) totaled 8,767.2 billion yen ($80.4 billion), and it employed approximately 301,000 people worldwide. Hitachi drives digital innovation across five sectors – Mobility, Smart Life, Industry, Energy and IT – through Lumada, Hitachi’s advanced digital solutions, services, and technologies for turning data into insights to drive digital innovation. Its purpose is to deliver solutions that increase social, environmental and economic value for its customers. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company’s website at https://www.hitachi.com.

HITACHI is a trademark or registered trademark of Hitachi, Ltd. All other trademarks, service marks, and company names are properties of their respective owners.

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SOURCE Hitachi Vantara Corporation