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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Red Magic, a renowned European brand with gaming PC, smartphone and tablet solutions, now delves further into the gaming world with its high-performing gaming laptops. The company's first gaming laptop, Titan 16 Pro, is built with an aluminium unibody chassis, enabling the machine to be lighter in weight, lighter on the pocket au contraire stronger inside out. This device boasts a sleek, premium matte finish and weighs 2.4 kg. Intel’s 14th-generation Core i9-HX processor and Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 4060 with 8 GB of VRAM enable this laptop to easily handle modern AAA games, 4K video editing, and 3D rendering. The laptop has an IPS LCD with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 px, 240Hz refresh rate, and a 16:10 aspect ratio, offering outstanding colour accuracy consistent with Nvidia G-Sync for...
Gemilang International Ltd (GML), a Malaysian manufacturer of buses and bus bodies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, has announced signing a contract with Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company, a prominent mobility leader in the United Arab Emirates. Under this agreement, Gemilang will deliver 76 Volvo double-decker buses to the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (Dubai RTA). FAMCO's regional managing director, Ramez Hamdan, emphasised that this project goes beyond the simple delivery of buses; it is designed to enhance Dubai's entire public transport infrastructure. The Dubai RTA project will include double-decker buses built on Volvo chassis featuring GML's advanced aluminium superstructure. This innovative design, utilising Constellium's aluminium alloy and a bolted bus body...
TrinaSolar, a global leader in photovoltaic and energy storage solutions, has announced the successful production of the world’s first fully recycled crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar module. This milestone resulted from collaboration with upstream and downstream partners, which has successfully produced the world’s first recycled photovoltaic (PV) module. About the milestone This breakthrough was achieved by the Research Centre Academy of TrinaSolar, utilising their innovative in-house recycling technology. The module is made from recovered materials such as aluminium frames, silicon, silver and glass sourced from waste modules. This accomplishment reinforces TrinaSolar’s leadership in sustainability and marks a significant advancement for the solar industry. Through this process,...
On Saturday, Italian prosecutors charged seven individuals and two subcontractors with crimes, including fraud and violations of aircraft safety regulations, stemming from an investigation into allegedly defective parts made by an Italian firm for Boeing (BA.N). Investigators discovered that two Italian subcontractors utilised less expensive and non-compliant types of titanium and aluminium to manufacture specific parts, resulting in substantial savings on raw material costs. 1,158 aluminium components The statement did not disclose the identities of the subcontractors or the seven individuals involved. According to prosecutors, aerospace experts confirmed the existence of at least 4,829 non-compliant titanium components and 1,158 aluminium components. The investigation began in late 2021...
The number 13 might be unlucky in the movies, but in the periodic table, this number represents one of the most sustainable and recyclable metals on earth – aluminium. Aluminium, the name itself resonates with competition, eco-friendly, and other such words in the industry. Coming from an arts background, my journey of exploration has led me to venture beyond the world of metals, but today, standing here, aluminium has made an irreplaceable place in my life. Its remarkable versatility and unique properties have left a positive impact in ways I never anticipated, finding its way into unexpected and innovative spaces and leaving a lasting mark. From being the highlight of ex-Miss Universe Aishwarya Rai’s breath-taking gown in Cannes to adorning the celestial-themed pre-wedding celebrations...
In a rapidly evolving packaging landscape, aluminium is playing an increasingly critical role in meeting sustainability goals and responding to dynamic consumer preferences. Today, AL Circle, the world's fastest-growing global ALuminium ecosystem, proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated report, " Aluminium in Packaging: Consumer Trends and Market Dynamics ." This comprehensive study offers an in-depth analysis of the shifting trends, market forces, and emerging opportunities shaping the future of aluminium in the packaging sector. Addressing the global sustainability demand The growing emphasis on sustainability has revolutionised the packaging industry, with consumers, brands, and regulatory bodies all pushing for eco-friendly solutions. Aluminium, being infinitely...
France, Greece, Italy, and Poland are among the major EU nations expected to vote in favour of up to 45 per cent tariffs on imports of Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs), while Germany is likely to abstain. Despite Germany's concerns over potential retaliatory actions from Beijing, the European Union is set to approve the tariff plan. The European Commission, which is conducting an anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs, has submitted the proposal to the EU's 27 member states for a vote on October 4. According to EU regulations, the Commission can impose these tariffs for five years unless a qualified majority—15 member states representing 65 per cent of the EU population—votes against it. Officials and sources confirmed that France, Italy, Poland, and Greece are expected to...
Nespresso, renowned for its iconic coffee machines, is expanding into the ready-to-drink (RTD) market with the introduction of its first offering, the Master Origins Colombia Ready to Drink Coffee in aluminium cans. The RTD capsule represents a key evolution for the brand, known for its premium coffee experiences in homes and offices worldwide. Crafted from Colombian coffee beans This limited-edition drink, crafted from Colombian coffee beans and sweetened with locally sourced honey, underscores Nespresso’s dedication to quality and sustainability. Available exclusively in the US as a limited edition, the drink features Colombian coffee beans sweetened with locally sourced honey. The distinguished global coffee company is known for implementing 80 per cent recycled aluminium in its coffee...
At MINExpo 2024 in Las Vegas, Stellar Industries unveiled the TMAX 3T Aluminum Mechanic Truck, an aluminium version of their steel TMAX Tandem Axle Mechanic Truck. Designed for the rugged demands of mining operations and construction sites, the TMAX 3T weighs 7,714 lbs., making it 1,578 lbs. lighter than its steel counterpart. Built for chassis with a 54,000-lb. GVWR and higher, it offers enhanced payload capacity, improved corrosion resistance, and features an extruded top rail for easier mounting. The truck includes a durable steel crane compartment and torsion box to withstand harsh environments. Also showcased was the TM16160/28000 Large OTR Tire Service Truck, specifically designed for the rigorous demands of large-scale mining and construction operations. This robust truck features...
Headquartered in Virginia, Massimo Zanetti Beverage USA (MZB-USA) has announced a partnership with Ultramar Caffè - La Natura Lifestyle to install a new packaging line designed to meet the growing US demand for aluminium espresso capsules. The new packaging line will be located at MZB-USA's manufacturing facility and headquarters in Suffolk, Virginia, with installation expected to be completed by the second half of 2024. MZB-USA offers a wide range of proprietary and branded coffee, tea, and drink mixes. Once operational, the line will be able to produce 100 million aluminium capsules annually, supporting MZB-USA's popular brands, including Chock full o'Nuts, Hills Bros, Kauai Coffee, and Segafredo Zanetti. Initially, the capsules will be offered to the e-commerce and food service...
Origin, UK’s leading specialist manufacturers of bespoke aluminium Bi-folding doors and windows, has clocked a significant achievement. The company has celebrated the production of its one-millionth product with a special announcement. Origin has launched an exclusive commemorative door set adorned with a radiant gold finish to mark this significant milestone in their journey of unwavering hard work and dedication. This announcement comes alongside the introduction of Origin's state-of-the-art in-house powder coating facility, which guarantees operational excellence and impeccable finishes on all their products. Origin’s doors and windows are celebrated for their exceptional quality, stylish design, and energy efficiency. Proudly manufactured in the UK, they come with an industry-leading...
Coca-Cola's Georgia, the canned coffee brand, has adopted Toyo Seikan's lightest aluminium can, specifically the 185 g products, with mass production starting in August at Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan's Ibaraki and Saitama plants. The Japanese packaging manufacturer (Toyo Seikan) launched its state-of-the-art lightweight can in April 2024, a 190 ml model that used just 6.1 grams of aluminium, making it approximately 13 per cent lighter than conventional cans. As recognition of their innovation, Toyo Seikan and Coca-Cola Japan jointly received the 'Appropriate Packaging Award' in the packaging technology category at the Japan Packaging Contest 2024 for developing the world's lightest aluminium can. Compression Bottom Reform (CBR) technology The achievement was made possible through Compression...
Crealis, a global leader in providing closure solutions for still and sparkling wines, spirits, beers, olive oil and vinegar, has launched 'Symbiosis', the next generation of foils. Primarily crafted from FSC-certified paper and aluminium, this innovation marks the phase-out of plastic in sparkling foils, with paper and aluminium now taking centre stage in a new era of eco-friendly closure solutions. Derived from the Greek words "syn" (together) and "bios" (life), "Symbiosis" emphasises the harmonious and lasting relationship between two high-value materials: paper and aluminium. These Symbiosis foils will make their debut at Luxe Pack in Monaco (September 30 - October 2) and will subsequently be showcased at various events across Europe and beyond. 44% aluminium and 48% paper This...
L’OCCITANE Travel Retail is excited to make its vibrant return to the renowned TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes, taking place from September 30 to October 3, 2024. The premium sustainable beauty brand has been promoting sustainability by incorporating aluminium in its packaging. Highlights of TFWA World Exhibition Renowned for its commitment towards sustainability, L'OCCITANE Group will highlight its flagship brand, L'OCCITANE en Provence, alongside leading names such as Sol de Janeiro, ELEMIS, and Erborian, reinforcing its dedication to innovation and global expansion within the premium beauty sector. 'We are excited to bring our multi-brand presence to TFWA Cannes. It's been an exciting year for L'OCCITANE Travel Retail with the hugely successful roll-out of ever-more bold,...
Cambio Roasters, under the leadership of Kevin Hartley (former Keurig Chief Innovation Officer), has introduced its revolutionary aluminium coffee pods (Aluminium K-Cups) for Keurig® brewers. This innovative transition from plastic to aluminium marks a major step in sustainability and coffee quality. Coffee pods have become a staple in modern routines, offering unmatched convenience and consistency in brewing. Pre-measured for the perfect cup, they deliver a uniform taste every time, making them ideal for those with busy schedules who prioritize speed and reliability. Making its presence felt nationwide Cambio Roasters is thrilled to introduce its new aluminium pods, which are now available at over 1,000 retailers nationwide, including Harris Teeter, Giant Martin, Hannaford, and Walmart....
CCL Container, a top manufacturer of recyclable aluminium packaging in North America, stated that under the personal care product category, body sprays in aluminium aerosol containers are gaining popularity among consumers for several reasons. CCL is known for providing innovative decorating and shaping options for its aluminium aerosol products, giving consumer brands a competitive edge. Reason for the growth They offer a convenient, quick way to refresh and apply fragrance or deodorant without requiring time-consuming routines. Many modern body sprays combine multiple functions, such as deodorising and fragrance, making them versatile and ideal for everyday use. This upward sales trend is driven by a growing demand for multi-functional products and continuous innovations in formulations...
Ghanaian studio Limbo Accra has designed the Duho Pavilion, located on the grounds of a dilapidated hotel in Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. The Duho Pavilion comprises a collection of 30 reflective aluminium poles arranged around and across the path. This installation is part of Limbo Accra's ongoing exploration of unfinished structures, distinguishing it by existing alongside the ruin rather than within it. Collaborating with landscape architect Malthe Mørck Clausen, this permanent installation features a winding pebbled path that meanders through the overgrown remnants of the hotel, abandoned for nearly 20 years following hurricane damage.Aluminium's role in architecture enables the construction of taller structures that are more energy-efficient and produce lower CO2 emissions. As the...
Platinum Equity, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm, is reportedly in negotiations to acquire Trivium Packaging for over $3.5 billion, according to Bloomberg sources familiar with the matter. The firm is working to finalise an agreement with Trivium's current owners, the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (OTPP) Board and Ardagh Group, within the coming weeks, the sources, who requested anonymity, revealed. While talks are ongoing, the deal is not yet guaranteed. Ardagh and OTPP had previously explored selling Trivium in 2021 but decided against it. In June, packaging company Sonoco withdrew from the bidding to acquire Trivium Packaging after signing a deal to purchase European food can manufacturer Eviosys for around $3.9 billion. According to media reports, representatives from Ardagh,...
