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...
Grow with
AL Circle
On Thursday, July 4, the European Union demonstrated its commitment to fair trade by levying additional tariffs of up to 37.6 per cent on electric vehicles originating from China, alleging ramifications for the domestic market with unfair state subsidies. The European Union took this measure even after Beijing warned of adverse impacts the move might bring, possibly a trade war. The news came after the European Commission officially announced the tariffs, adding that their initiation would be effective on Friday, July 5. The European Commission's strategic approach to the issue is evident from its decision to start probing into the impacts of Chinese electric vehicle imports last year. The investigation led the Commission to an interim conclusion that state subsidies for Chinese EV...
In a groundbreaking development, a team of researchers has successfully combined the most advanced battery technologies to create the world's first anode-free sodium solid-state battery. This innovative design features a stable solid electrolyte and employs pressure to form dense sodium metal. An aluminium current collector ensures efficient and repeatable sodium plating and stripping at high capacities and speeds. The implications of this new battery technology are significant. By eliminating the anode and using sodium—a cheap and abundant material—this battery is set to be more affordable and environmentally friendly than traditional lithium-based batteries. This advancement promises a future where energy storage is more sustainable and economically accessible. Grayson Deysher, a PhD...
The Government of India has introduced new rules to bolster kitchen safety and product integrity. Effective March 14, 2024, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has mandated the ISI mark on all stainless steel and aluminium utensils sold in the country. Under this order, adherence to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) criteria is now compulsory. Non-compliance will incur penalties, underscoring the government's commitment to consumer safety. These stringent standards are designed to ensure that kitchenware meets high-quality benchmarks, reflecting BIS's dedication to preserving culinary diversity while enhancing product reliability and consumer protection. Aluminium utensils are essential in both household and professional kitchens. They are prized for their...
Indonesia unveiled Southeast Asia's first electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility on July 3, 2024, as a landmark for the region's automotive industry. The facility boasts the world's largest nickel reserves and the sixth-largest producer of bauxite. Situated in Karawang, West Java Province, the plant was owned by HLI Green Power and was inaugurated on July 3, 2024. This groundbreaking initiative is a joint venture involving Indonesia Battery Corporation, South Korean automaker Hyundai, and leading battery manufacturer LG Energy Solution. The move signifies Indonesia's strategic leap into the forefront of electric vehicle technology, leveraging its abundant nickel resources to propel the green energy transition forward. During the ceremony, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said,...
Kyocera AVX has recently launched the new AEF Series wet aluminium V-chip electrolytic capacitors for industrial and consumer electronics applications. Designed to meet the demands of high-density PCBs, these capacitors are qualified to industrial endurance levels. The series offers versatility with 11 case sizes ranging from 0608 to 1216. Capacitance values span from 2.2μF to 470μF, and voltage ratings range from 6.3VDC to 400VDC. The new AEF Series wet aluminium electrolytic capacitors from Kyocera AVX feature low DCL and ESR, allowing for higher tolerance of ripple currents. They maintain low impedance across a wide range of temperatures from -40°C or -55°C to +105°C, ensuring reliability. With extended lifetimes of up to 6,000 hours at +105°C and rated voltages, the series currently...
Nocs Design, the Sweden-based studio renowned for its intricately crafted audio accessories emphasising minimalism, has introduced its latest wireless speaker, succeeding the acclaimed hand-crafted Monolith speaker. The Nocs Monolith Aluminium speaker, a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship, is the outcome of extensive research to eliminate the usage of recycled plastics. Speaker featuring CNC-machined aluminium According to founder Daniel Alm, the result is a speaker made from a single block of CNC-machined aluminium, achieving a sophisticated appearance. Notably, the speaker is fully recyclable, demonstrating Nocs' commitment to sustainability. Daniel Alm mentioned that significant time and effort were invested in achieving perfect symmetry for driver positioning within the...
TESEM, a leading global manufacturer of aluminium and plastic components catering to diverse sectors, including perfume and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and spirits, has launched a new technology. The innovative technology, BRI&Va, is designed to enhance the shine of Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) aluminium. This cutting-edge solution, which is currently patent-pending, is the result of two years of dedicated research and development. The BRI&Va technology ensures that high-percentage PCR aluminium achieves a lustre comparable to virgin anodised aluminium, allowing brands to retain the luxurious appearance of glossy metal packaging. The company emphasises that BRI&Va technology promotes the use of high-content PCR aluminium, supporting clients' sustainability initiatives. TESEM claims that...
Dudley’s Aluminium, a Cardiff-based aluminium fabricator offering services like designing, manufacturing, and installing curtain walls, windows, doors, and facades within the building envelope, has reportedly won a critical project to build a multistorey car park in Central Quay, Cardiff. Dudley has partnered with Goldbeck Construction for the project involving the installation of curtain walling and doors for the Cardiff city center car park building, which also features residential, office, leisure, and retail opportunities. This is not the first time the Welsh fabricator has secured a city centre project. Dudley earlier played a crucial role in remodelling the city centre with its work on many of the landmark buildings in Central Square, such as Buildings One and Two, the BBC, HMRC and...
KparK Énergies, a leading French company specialising in energy renovation and transition, has recently introduced its latest flagship product—the low-carbon aluminium solar carport. This innovative solution was celebrated at the prestigious Paris Fair 2024, where it was awarded the Grand Prix de l'Innovation in the Home category. The French startup's product utilises an anodised aluminium structure. At the event Crafted in France to address contemporary environmental challenges, the KparK Énergies aluminium solar carport combines practicality with aesthetic design. Its debut at the Paris Fair garnered significant interest, showcasing its innovative approach to sustainable energy solutions. The solar carport exemplifies KparK Énergies' dedication to delivering personalised and...
Paul Villinski's solo exhibition "Flight Patterns" at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park uses found objects such as aluminium cans, bottles, knives, and vinyl records to explore various interpretations of flight. Drawing from his background as a licensed pilot, Villinski frames the experience of airborne motion through thematic lenses of hope and transformation. Villinski is renowned for his intricate, thematic sculptures featuring swarms of insects, addressing issues like environmentalism, addiction recovery, and food insecurity. In "Flight Patterns," hundreds of miniature liquor bottles form undulating patterns reminiscent of starling murmurations. Another piece displays numerous knives arranged like bird feathers from a larger-than-life metallic wingspan. Using aluminium from...
Recorp Aluminium, New Zealand's most progressive can-manufacturing company founded and funded by the country's brightest beverage container specialists, is on the brink of launching its $100 million-plus facility into operation in South Auckland. The founder and chairman of the company, former Air New Zealand chief executive Rob Fyfe, expressed his positive views about the project saying that it should break even in its second year of operation. The new can manufacturing plant, equipped with cutting-edge technology, is poised to revolutionise New Zealand's beverage packaging industry. It is scheduled to commence operations in early September 2024, albeit five months behind schedule due to a site change. Recorp Aluminium was founded to revolutionise New Zealand's packaging industry for...
Korean scientists have developed a groundbreaking deep-learning alternative model to optimise aluminium frames in glass-glass bifacial photovoltaic panels (PVs). Addressing the escalating challenges posed by the growing size and weight of PV modules, the researchers highlighted a critical issue: the heightened susceptibility of aluminium frames to deflection. Deflection refers to the lateral deformation experienced by a structural element under load, a concern amplified by the increasing dimensions of modern PV panels. Aluminium frames play a crucial role in providing structural support to solar panels. They ensure they maintain their shape and integrity by preventing bending, warping, or sagging caused by their weight or external factors. The innovative deep-learning hybrid model...
Alloy LED, a premier designer and manufacturer of high-quality LED tape lights, is enhancing its diverse lineup of tape light channels with the launch of the SurfaFlex 1. This flexible, low-profile, surface-mount aluminium channel ensures uniform, hotspot-free illumination when used with the company's compatible tape lights. Image source- Alloy LED About SurfaFlex 1 With dimensions of only 0.61 inches in width and 0.15 inches in height, the SurfaFlex 1 is ideal for curved surfaces requiring a minimum bend radius of 5.5 inches, making it perfect for commercial and residential applications where a small footprint is crucial. Alloy LED's tape lights provide seamless illumination with their premium frosted lens and diffuser cover, eliminating any hotspots. These tape lights, which feature an...
Aluminium, famous for its sustainable attributes, is also known as the green metal of the industry. Rimowa's newly launched iconic aluminium suitcase in the captivating Emerald Green adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to every journey. About the aluminium suitcase The Emerald Green Collection exemplifies Rimowa's dedication to style and durability, appealing to discerning travellers who value functionality and flair. The Emerald Green Collection features three meticulously crafted styles: the Original Trunk Plus (105L) the Original Check-In L (86L) the Original Cabin (35L) Each piece showcases Rimowa's renowned craftsmanship, finishing the entire case in a vibrant green hue. From the sturdy corners to the sleek handles and secure locks, every detail is thoughtfully designed to...
Trulite Glass & Aluminium Solutions LLC has acquired and merged with American Insulated Glass (AIG) to create a new era in the architectural glass and aluminium fabrication industry. This acquisition solidifies Trulite's position as one of North America's leading players in the market. Financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed. The merger with AIG is set to broaden Trulite's footprint, enhancing its capacity to service the growing Midwest and East Coast markets. By integrating AIG's product offerings, Trulite can now provide a wider array of residential applications, strengthening its market position and expanding its customer base. This expansion means more options and better service for our valued customers. Trulite spokesperson said, "We are excited about this acquisition's...
John West, a prominent name in the seafood industry, has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to enhance packaging sustainability. Partnering with Schubert Packaging Systems, CCL Label, and Touch Design, John West has implemented an aluminium strip solution known as Ecotwist in its ambient tuna packaging. This innovative approach facilitates easier recycling and annually eliminates approximately 65 tonnes of plastic shrink wrap. The Ecotwist solution features a Smartstrip that consumers can effortlessly twist and pull to open the packaging. This user-friendly design, independently verified as fully recyclable, allows consumers to recycle their tuna cans, complete with the aluminium strip, through kerbside recycling programs across the UK. By adopting Ecotwist, John West not only...
Magnolia based Southern Aluminium, the industry's leading provider of high-end linen-less meeting and event furniture, has announced the promotion of Andrew Hinkle to Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management. Hinkle began his journey with the company as a graphic designer in 2010 and has steadily risen through the ranks, showcasing exceptional dedication and strategic insight. Having assumed the role of Director of Marketing in 2020, Hinkle has been pivotal in shaping Southern Aluminium's brand narrative, both internally and externally. His visionary approach underscores the company's commitment to enhancing its market presence while fostering a cohesive culture within the organization and the community. Andrew Hinkle's promotion to Vice President of Marketing and Brand Management...
Metal Packaging Europe (MPE) has announced the appointment of two new vice presidents following a successful AGM and Conference in Amsterdam. Members, suppliers, customers, and other value chain partners attended the event. Metal Packaging Europe gives Europe’s rigid metal packaging industry a unified voice by bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and national associations. Dr Mandy Glew of Ball Corporation and JehanZeb Noor of Trivium Packaging have joined as Vice Presidents, bringing extensive expertise to the MPE leadership team. Their addition marks a significant step forward in the organisation's efforts to champion the benefits of rigid metal packaging. The MPE Conference and AGM gathered experts and industry leaders from Europe and beyond to explore the future of rigid metal...
