Mexico’s expanding electric vehicle (EV) market is creating new opportunities across battery production, materials, charging infrastructure and electronics, as Chinese companies look to move beyond vehicle exports towards broader overseas supply-chain partnerships. Hong Kong could play a strategic role in connecting Mexican businesses with mainland China’s manufacturing capabilities, investment and research resources. According to the source commentary, Mexico’s EV market has evolved considerably over the past 16 years, with more brands offering vehicles across different price ranges and driving ranges, alongside the expansion of residential, corporate and industrial charging infrastructure. However, demand for EV purchases is growing faster than the capacity to maintain them,...
France-headquartered Drone Volt has unveiled its Hercules 100 heavy-lift cargo drone, combining an aluminium-and-carbon chassis with a payload capacity of up to 100 kilogrammes (kg). Introduced in flight at the UAV Show in Bordeaux on October 9, 2026, the foldable octocopter is designed for industrial logistics, civil protection, firefighting and defence. Designed and assembled in France, the aircraft marks the company’s move from the 25 kilogrammes class to a 100 kilogrammes payload platform. Aluminium and carbon highlight the design The Hercules 100 has a maximum take-off weight of 197 kg. It weighs 52 kg without batteries and 97 kg with its battery pack, leaving capacity for a full 100 kg payload. Its chassis combines aluminium and carbon fibre, with a wheelbase of 3,300 mm. When...
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Innovation and sophistication perfectly define Apple, the American tech giant celebrated worldwide for its cutting-edge gadgets and electronics. Beyond its iconic products, Apple is equally renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. And talking about sustainability, as per the reports, the 2025 iPhone 17 Pro may transition from a titanium build to an aluminium one. Image Source: macworld.com The phone's back will feature a combination of aluminium and glass, potentially reducing weight while maintaining a glass window for wireless charging. Additionally, the camera bump is expected to switch from glass to aluminium and become larger. However, whether these changes will come with a redesigned overall look or simply a material update remains unclear. Why...
Dengo Chocolates, a Brazilian bean-to-bar chocolate brand, introduced an innovative truffle packaging this year that is 100 per cent recyclable, featuring aluminium bands and no plastic. This development follows two years of extensive research and development, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainability and minimising environmental impact. Image Source: Dengo Chocolates Dengo tested 19 different rolls of paper, varnishes, and aluminium strips to achieve this breakthrough, carefully selecting the optimal combination. The process involved a deep focus on innovation and sustainability while ensuring the packaging met the standards set by Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), all without compromising the chocolate’s quality or flavour. The new packaging, crafted...
Flow Aluminum, a startup firm revolutionising energy storage with aluminium-CO2 battery technology, has appointed Fran Nicklous as a new board of directors member. Nicklous will join the company as a formal board member with full voting rights. Coming from an engineering background with extensive knowledge of renewable energy and expertise in developing innovative battery energy storage systems, Mr Nicklous brings valuable insights into the design of safe and more diverse battery technologies. With the responsibility to supervise advanced safety protocols, resource availability, and cost-efficiency, Nicklous is expected to strengthen the position of Flow Aluminum in the rapidly evolving market. As a board member, Nicklous will work closely with the team to get the necessary insights,...
Adventure touring gets a new transporter — Moto Morini X-Cape 1200. Designed and developed exclusively in Italy, the adventure motorcycle incorporates an elegant layout, advanced technological support and high-end performance. Image Source: https://www.roadbookmag.it/ The X-Cape 1200's design showcases signature Italian patterns but goes beyond aesthetics. The fairing deflects hot air from the rider, while the 23-litre tank enables long-distance ventures. The tubular trellis frame, along with a 630mm aluminium swingarm, ensures traction and stability on any terrain. The swingarm is an essential component of a motorbike's rear suspension mechanism. It connects the rear wheel to the chassis of the bike, allowing vertical movement and helping to get the impact from bumps and vibrations. It...
Aluminium Fire Systems, led by CEO Rebecca Sutherland, has inclined towards working four days a week, an already successful practice in the United Kingdom. Image Source: https://www.aluminiumfiresystems.com/ However, the challenge that came in the way was the need for a physical presence onsite to assemble products. Implementing four working days would subsequently affect the net output of the enterprise. Rebecca had a creative solution to the problem. She suggested a 10-hour working shift for four days and three days' weekly off for the employees. "The business is open from 5 am to 7 pm, so people can do their 10 hours whenever it works for them," she says. "We have people who pick their children up on a certain day, so we've had to look at whether they could do an extra half-hour every...
On October 24, Minfa Aluminum announced its plan to establish Gansu Minfa Aluminum Co., Ltd., aimed at advancing its strategic development and broadening its market presence. The new company will be jointly funded by Minfa Aluminum and Gansu Zhongsheng Aluminum Co., Ltd., pending approval and registration by relevant industrial and commercial authorities. Image Source: CHAL Aluminium Corporation Gansu, a province in north-central China, is renowned for its historical landmarks. The city of Jiayuguan stands out for its iconic Overhanging Great Wall and the majestic Jiayuguan Pass fortress complex, both integral parts of the Great Wall of China. Gansu Minfa will have a registered capital of RMB 5 million, with Minfa Aluminum contributing RMB 3.5 million for a 70 per cent stake. At the same...
The saga of the Austal-Capral duo dates back over two decades. As a key supplier of aluminium extruded products, Capral's contribution towards the landmark journey of Austal from being a modest fishing vessel manufacturer to Australia's leading shipbuilding company with a workforce of 5,000 from multiple countries across the globe is worth celebrating. United by shared values and a common vision, Capral and Austal have built a strong and enduring partnership over the past 25 years. Image Source: Austal Austal's high-quality commercial vessels primarily owe to Capral for its aluminium sheets, complex extrusions, and value addition to the business. "It's nice to have a supplier where we can share a vision, share values, and build a mutual relationship that benefits both parties," said Brent...
SENIOR Architectural Systems, a pivotal contributor to the new residential scheme, has introduced a trio of innovative products. These products have played an essential role in the metamorphosis of the once derelict site of Glasgow's Grade II listed Meat Market into a thriving community. Image Source: https://www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk/ The new affordable housing scheme, a tribute to the city's historic market area that dates back to the 1870s, has been developed by the housing association Home in Scotland and designed by architects JTP. The development comprises four blocks ranging from four to six storeys that house a total of 252 one and two-bedroom apartments. Accessibility has been paramount, with four individual apartments on each floor arranged around a central stair and lift...
Several Indian solar manufacturers, having delved into solar module and cell production, are now expanding into in-house aluminium frame manufacturing, a crucial component of solar modules. Among them, Premier Energies, a prominent producer of solar modules and cells, has pledged an investment of INR 230 crore for this new initiative. Image Source: Trade Brains Premier Energies to establish new facility For this, the Indian solar cell and module manufacturer plans to establish a facility with an annual capacity of 36,000 metric tonnes for captive consumption. As of March 31, 2024, Premier Energies is India's second-largest integrated solar PV manufacturer, boasting an annual installed capacity of 2 GW for cell manufacturing and 4.13 GW for module manufacturing. "We are also pleased to...
The latest research by the UK’s Can Makers shows that more people now recognise the benefits beverage cans offer. Norman Lett, spokesperson for the Can Makers, discusses how a greater variety of canned beverages, convenience, recyclability and other factors are making cans the preferred packaging of choice for many festival goers in the UK. More brands are also switching to cans. “The shift to cans which many brands are now making not only highlights the growing importance of sustainability throughout the value chain but underscores the positive impact of cans when it comes to storytelling, branding and timely, culturally relevant marketing,” Lett says. Festivals that promote sustainable practices New research has shown that canned beverages which can be recycled easily, are the go-to...
Reynaers Aluminium has enhanced its Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door by introducing new panic hardware options, including both surface-mounted and concealed systems, designed for seamless operation during emergencies. Image Source: Reynaers Aluminium These hardware options are available in push-bar and push-pad configurations, ensuring safe and efficient exits that comply with current safety regulations. A full-width push-bar option is provided to meet EN 1125 standards for public spaces like shopping centres. For buildings with regular occupants, such as offices, where an escape route is still essential, a push-pad option is available to meet EN 179 requirements. “The addition of panic hardware further expands the use of the Vision 7 Thermal Commercial Door to meet the need for urgent...
Donna Leonetti has achieved a record-breaking milestone. One of her most recent feats occurred on Friday, November 1, 2024, at the Ronald McDonald House in Colorado Springs. Her previous record of 850 pounds, set in November 2023, was surpassed by an impressive 1,000 pounds of sparkling aluminium can tabs—equating to 1,128,000 individual tabs. Image Source - Ronald McDonald House "It's wonderful how I went from a half-full Walmart plastic bag in 2009 to 1,128,000 tabs. This journey is not mine anymore. I can't do it alone. Now, we are all making this journey. I am overjoyed. I want to thank all of you for your contribution. You made it happen," added Donna. Donna Leonetti remains unbeatable If laid out, they would shine brightly in the sun for 20 miles, stretching from the heart of the...
OnePlus is now in the market with an aluminium inclusive fast wireless charging pad for the OnePlus 13 and other MagSafe-capable devices. Image Source: community.oneplus.com The charging pad enables users to have efficient and fast charging options. The sleek design is easier to carry. The charging pad can yield up to 50 watts of power and has magnetic absorption capability, allowing supported devices to attach securely even when using a magnetic case. This device also backs charging protocols such as SUPERVOOC, VOOC, PD, PPS, and QC, making it fit for various smartphones. OnePlus officials have mentioned that the charger is capable of charging the OnePlus 13 model from 1 to 100 per cent in under 75 minutes. The pads have advanced cooling built into the wireless charging pad using a...
Leading access equipment supplier TB Davies is poised for substantial growth following a major expansion of its manufacturing facility in Cardiff. Outfitted with fully automated machinery, the facility is designed for high-volume production of aluminium extension ladders and the assembly of combination steps for Little Giant Ladder Systems, for which TB Davies holds the exclusive UK license. Image Source: BusinessLive About the expansion TB Davies' newly expanded facility now spans 3.5 acres and features 31,000 sq ft of office and warehouse space, with the capacity to add an additional 14,000 sq ft as demand increases. The expansion was fuelled by a strategic £500,000 investment and financial restructuring support from NatWest, bolstered by £100,000 in assistance and expertise from the...
Servotech Power Systems Limited (SPSL) has secured a contract for a 2-megawatt (MW) on-grid solar project from the Uttar Pradesh Government. According to the company's statement, the project has been awarded by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (UPNEDA). Image Source- Servotech Under the terms of the agreement, Servotech will oversee the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the 2 MW on-grid solar power systems. The company will also provide warranty maintenance for these solar photovoltaic (PV) installations at 67 key locations throughout the state for the next five years. Sarika Bhatia, Director of Servotech Power Systems, said, "Leveraging our expertise and innovative solutions, our aim is to empower Uttar Pradesh with clean, reliable,...
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Aluminium-made wall installations that include adorable figurines of a bear, a butterfly, a fox, a turtle and some others adorn the exterior of the entrance at the Coeur d'Alene public library's Seagrave Children's Library section to increase awareness of the children's library. Image Source: Facebook (Coeur d'Alene public library) "We want to show people there's a wonderful children's library here," Paul Fleschner said Thursday morning as the row of vibrant aluminium animals affixed to the brick outer wall fronting McEuen Park was officially recognised. The Children's Library Critters project, which cost US$18,000, was funded by the Larry Paul Foundation and created by artists Melanie Germond and Pete Goldlust. After the demise of Larry Fleschner from cancer in 2007, the vast majority of...
Toys are integral to kids' babyhood laughter, fun and, at times, their cognitive development. Kids' toys have a wide range and variety from miniature cars and bikes to kitchen utensils, from robots to electronic gadgets, and from medical instruments to building blocks. They ignite imagination, promote creativity, and provide hours of entertainment. However, when buying a toy for your champ ahead of the upcoming International Children's Day, remember that not all playthings are built equal, and in the long run, some might do more harm than good. In particular, plastic toys, which have conquered the market due to their low cost and accessibility, have been prone to their potential adverse impact on children's health, our planet, and their overall development. Conversely, aluminium is a...
The aluminium beverage can sales in Brazil have recorded an impressive 12 per cent year-on-year growth for H1 2024, revealed the Brazilian Association of Aluminium Can Manufacturers (Abralatas). The association, representing the country's aluminium can sector, previously noted that macroeconomic development significantly drove the increase in Brazilian beverage can sales this year. Following the revelation of this momentous growth, Abralatas expects the year to close with a high-digit sales figure for aluminium beverage cans. Earlier, the association estimated a growth rate of 5 per cent at the year-end, compared to an annual increase of 1.65 per cent last year. However, it is essential to see if the projection remains the same after this double-digit growth in H1. Production, consumption...
