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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One Water, an ethical hydration brand, is set to be the official water partner for the fitness-focused Wild Goat Festival, happening from May 31 to June 2, 2024. The festival, designed to bring families together outdoors, will feature a range of activities such as running, cycling, and other fun events. Sporting icons like Paula Radcliffe, Chris Thompson, and Non Stanford will also be in attendance. Volunteers at the Wild Goat Festival will distribute One Water's 500-ml refillable aluminium bottles to attendees. These bottles align with One Water's commitment to sustainability, as aluminium is a 100% recyclable material. Additionally, attendees will receive One Water’s Energising and Hydrating Supplements to boost their fitness activities. Ian Spooner, Brand Director of One Water,...
Headquartered in the US, Belvac, a pioneer in providing the global aluminium beverage can industry with sustainable solutions, has unveiled a game-changing solution for beverage brands. The 'Belvac Carrier Ring Bottle' is not just a new product but a gateway to a more sustainable future. It enables brands to seamlessly shift from filling PET to aluminium D&I bottles, reducing transition costs, surpassing corporate sustainability objectives, and fostering greater brand loyalty among consumers. This breakthrough is a testament to Belvac's unwavering dedication to sustainability and innovation. It's a response to the evolving needs of consumers and the environment, and a commitment to delivering eco-conscious solutions that champion the adoption of aluminium packaging. Belvac's Carrier Ring...
Radnor Hills, a renowned soft drink manufacturer based in Knighton, has been honoured with the Sustainable Business of the Year award at the Wales Food and Drink Awards 2024. This accolade, announced at Brangwyn Hall in Swansea, reflects the company’s untainted commitment to environmental sustainability, particularly through its pioneering use of aluminium cans. Radnor Hills places environmental sustainability at its core, producing a range of still, sparkling, and flavoured drinks from spring water sourced from its own boreholes. The company’s dedication is evident through its zero-waste-to-landfill achievement since 2018 and its state-of-the-art on-site recycling facility. Radnor's expert in-house team ensures that any non-recyclable waste is compacted and sent for Refuse Derived Fuel...
Liquid Death, the startup known for its innovative "murder your thirst" campaign, has secured $9 million in Series A funding. This round, led by Velvet Sea Ventures, brings the total funding to $11.25 million, with participation from notable investors like Jamie Siminoff and Sophia Amoruso. Liquid Death sells mountain water in tallboy aluminium cans, with a 12-pack priced at $18.99. The brand, co-founded by CEO Mike Cessario , aims to make water consumption exciting through edgy, heavy metal-inspired marketing. Cessario, a former creative director at VaynerMedia, emphasises the importance of branding in differentiating their product in the competitive beverage market. The brand is committed to sustainability, using aluminium cans made from over 70% recycled material. Aluminium, being...
Harnessing over 30 years of experience, the German multinational manufacturer of Luxury vehicles, BMW Group, is a pioneer in additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. According to reports, BMW Group Plant Landshut has launched a new generation bionic robot gripper crafted through an innovative process utilising a sand casting mould filled with liquid aluminium. About the new bionic gripper These new aluminium robotic-grippers are 25 per cent lighter than its predecessor, allowing the entire CFRP roof (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic) manufacturing process for the BMW M3 to be completed with just one robot instead of three. Currently, double grippers, individually manufactured through 3D printing within the BMW Group, are used for all CFRP roofs at the BMW Group Plant...
Canada-based Westlake Royal Building Products has unveiled an exclusive update to its Cedar Renditions aluminium siding line. The company is introducing two unique new colours: Burntwood, with a classic appeal and distinct stained woodgrain appearance, and Blonde Oak, a high-end option showcasing intricate multi-tonal woodgrain patterns. According to Westlake, Cedar Renditions is not just another product. It's a testament to our commitment to quality. Constructed from robust and recyclable aluminium, it boasts rust resistance, water resistance, resilience to cold conditions, and immunity to insects, guaranteeing an extended lifespan. Backed by a 25-year Prorated Limited Warranty, the product is conveniently accessible through selected distributors across North America. "Westlake Royal...
Founded by Robert Clifford, Incat Tasmania is a renowned Australian manufacturer of high-speed lightweight catamarans that has revolutionised maritime engineering. Incat specialises in high-speed, lightweight aluminium passenger vehicle ferries and is synonymous with innovation and sustainability. "The real focus has been on using aluminium because that gives us the lightweight product, which allows us to operate the vessels at a high speed. Our passion now is building the vessels for the future, which are going to meet the zero emissions and reduce the carbon footprint of the maritime sector around the world," added CEO Stephen Casey of Incat. Based in Derwent Park, Hobart, Incat boasts the largest covered shipyard in the southern hemisphere. This facility, which includes five large...
China's rapid expansion in solar panel manufacturing has been a catalyst for the global clean-energy transition. On one hand, the nation's industrial prowess has dramatically lowered the costs of solar panels, making renewable energy more accessible worldwide. This positive aspect of China's expansion should not be overlooked, as it has brought us closer to a sustainable future. However, this same expansion has led to a significant overcapacity issue, sparking concerns among international trade partners. The United States, the European Union, and their allies are now voicing serious concerns over the glut of solar panels produced by Chinese manufacturers. This surplus has disrupted global markets and prompted these nations to call on Beijing to address the overproduction problem. The...
Honda is set to challenge the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of an all-new EV sedan, designed to challenge the likes of the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal. This sedan is part of Honda's ambitious 0 Series line-up, which aims to launch seven EV models by 2030. These models will prioritise weight reduction and aerodynamic efficiency while embodying the “joy of driving.” Central to Honda's strategy is the minimisation of parts in each model, adopting lightweight aluminium chassis structures. This approach, akin to the die-casting technique pioneered by the Tesla Model Y, aims to reduce part complexity, weight, and costs. Such innovation defines Honda’s commitment to leveraging aluminium's unique properties, enhancing both performance and efficiency. Honda's extensive work...
Tom Fereday, an acclaimed industrial designer, has joined forces with bespoke speaker maker Pitt & Giblin to unveil the awe-inspiring Cast speaker. Crafted from premium aluminium and top-notch components, Cast is a testament to meticulous design and engineering prowess. A part of Fereday's latest exhibition Sculpted using marine-grade aluminium, the speaker known as Cast stands as a towering testament to design innovation. Assembled in a totem-like fashion, its top-heavy structure houses four powerful loudspeaker elements, delivering a formidable sound experience. Weighing a substantial 45kg and towering at 80cm, Cast commands attention with its physical presence, matched only by its mighty audio performance. Presented as part of Fereday's latest exhibition, 'Aver', in the vibrant...
Pakistan Aluminum Beverage Cans Limited (PABC) has reported that the "ongoing security issues" in Chaman are likely to negatively impact its export revenue to Afghanistan, as trade with the neighbouring country has already been severely restricted. Additionally, the company has observed a nearly 25 per cent Y-o-Y decline in local order bookings. "We anticipate a negative impact on our order bookings during the peak season," the company stated. Protests have been ongoing in Chaman since October 2023, involving workers and supporters from various political parties and local traders' organizations. These demonstrations have significantly disrupted bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan, including transit trade. In October of last year, the government's apex committee decided to...
Signify has unveiled a range of energy-efficient fans tailored for the summer season. These innovative fans combine advanced technology with top-tier performance, offering consumers an optimal cooling experience. The new Ecolink lineup features five models: AiroGeometry, AiroJewel, AiroZephyr, AiroSerenade, and AiroSleek, each designed for superior air delivery, high efficiency, and significant energy savings. The newly launched fans by Signify incorporate advanced technology ensuring high energy efficiency and low power consumption. Equipped with aluminium blades and heavy-duty copper winding motors , these fans promise durability and top-notch performance. Operating at 370 RPM, they deliver superior air circulation, making them an excellent choice for any space. AiroGeometry : Inspired...
Netherlands-based DeSpray Environmental, a Dutch innovator in aerosol recycling technology, has announced a significant long-term contract with Australian-based ARRG Waste to supply DeSpray aerosol recycling systems. The machines are known for recycling aerosol cans composed of aluminium and other metals. This milestone agreement, unveiled at the IFAT exhibition in Munich, Germany, marks the first time DeSpray's 100 per cent aerosol recycling machines will be shipped to Australia and the Asia Pacific region. Under this multi-million-dollar contract, DeSpray will become a long-term partner, providing 100 per cent aerosol recycling machines to multiple ARRG Waste locations. Headquartered in Chinchilla, Queensland, ARRG Waste offers various waste management and recycling services. It is...
Volvo Buses has introduced the Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range, a pioneering electric low-floor, two-door premium-class city bus, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's public transportation sector. This collaboration with Gemilang International Ltd aims to elevate industry standards and accelerate the nation's transition to sustainable urban mobility. The Volvo BZL-GML Eco Range is a testament to the benefits of aluminium in modern bus manufacturing. Featuring an aluminium body superstructure , this innovative bus combines superior reliability, safety, and environmental performance. Aluminium’s lightweight yet durable properties make it an ideal choice for enhancing the efficiency and longevity of electric buses. Volvo Buses Country Manager Marcus Mak pointed out that electromobility is a...
Ball Corporation has strategically sold its aerospace business to BAE Systems, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $4.7 billion. This move has enabled Ball to pay down $2.8 billion in debt and initiate a $1.3 billion share repurchase program. The sale propelled the company’s shares to a 21-month high despite mixed Q1 results. The financial manoeuvre allowed Ball Corporation to report a combined profit of $0.68 per share, slightly down from the previous year's $0.69, yet exceeding expectations by 14 cents. GAAP profit for Q1, bolstered by the aerospace sale, was $11.70 per share. However, total sales fell by 3.7% to $2.87 billion, missing estimates by $270 million. CEO Daniel Fisher stated: “Following the successful sale of the aerospace business in mid-February, we have executed our plans to...
The UK's Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has launched a transition review concerning aluminium foil imports from China. This follows a 2013 ruling during the UK's EU membership, where the European Union identified instances of dumping by Chinese producers and imposed anti-dumping measures. Post-Brexit, these measures were incorporated into UK law. The TRA's current review will evaluate the necessity of maintaining these measures to ensure fair competition for UK producers. Aluminium foil, extensively used in the food industry, hair, and beauty sectors, had import values exceeding £77 million in 2023. The current import tariff on Chinese aluminium foil stands at 35.6%. A 2019 review by the EU reaffirmed the need for these measures. The TRA, now responsible for such investigations...
DECO Australia, a family-owned business, proudly marks its twentieth anniversary this year. Since its inception in 2004, DECO has evolved from a humble start-up specialising in aluminium woodgrain finishes to a leading Australian provider of timber-look aluminium building products. Founded by Ross Doonan, whose extensive career in engineering, industrial automation, and product design laid the foundation for DECO, the company has overcome significant challenges to achieve its current stature. Ross Doonan established DECO in 2004, leveraging his vast experience in the building products sector, including aluminium windows and doors. Initially focused on raising market awareness about their innovative finishing technology, DECO faced a major setback with the global financial crisis in 2007....
Neolea, a pioneer in modern Mediterranean products, is set to reinvent olive oil packaging with the launch of its extra virgin olive oil in eco-friendly aluminium cans. The new packaging features the innovative ‘Fresh Cap,’ designed to preserve the olive oil’s integrity, freshness, and flavour. The ‘Fresh Cap’ offers a spill-free, flow-controlled pouring experience and allows the can to be resealed , ensuring optimal freshness between uses. Dishwasher-safe and user-friendly, this cap magnifies Neolea’s dedication to product quality and consumer convenience. Aluminium is infinitely recyclable without quality loss, with the recycling process consuming 95% less energy than producing new aluminium from raw materials. This makes it an ideal choice for sustainable packaging, aligning perfectly...
