Latest news with #urbanmobility
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
Unlocking Africa's E-Mobility Future: Upcoming Webinar on Public Transport Electrification
Electrifying public transport is no longer just an aspiration for Africa—it is rapidly becoming a reality. On Wednesday, 23 July 2025, stakeholders from across the continent and beyond will convene virtually to explore the path forward in a high-impact webinar where industry experts discuss 'The Future of Public Transport Electrification in Africa: Opportunities, Trends and Challenges.' The webinar will focus on unlocking practical solutions and scalable models to accelerate the shift to zero-emission mobility—particularly electric buses and paratransit systems, which form the backbone of Africa's urban mobility landscape. Key Themes: Energy and Charging Infrastructure Practical strategies for grid preparedness, depot-based and on-route charging, and strengthening public-private collaboration. Innovative Procurement Models An exploration of models such as leasing, pay-as-you-go, and city-led ownership—what's working, and where? Electrifying Paratransit Addressing one of Africa's most vital and informal transport systems—minibus taxis and other modes—and how e-mobility can integrate meaningfully into this space. Moderator: Prian Reddy, Senior Programme Manager: Zero Emission Buses (Africa), C40 Cities Expert Panel: Hans van Toor, Strategy&Innovation, Roam Moses Nderitu, Managing Director, BasiGo Justin Coetzee, Founder, GoMetro Why You Should Attend: Hear real-world insights from cities and transport operators already rolling out electric buses. Learn about infrastructure readiness, energy strategies, and funding models fit for African cities. Explore how electrification can include and uplift paratransit and informal transport sectors. Connect with the experts and decision-makers shaping Africa's low-carbon transport future. This event is designed for public officials, transport authorities, urban planners, mobility innovators, infrastructure investors, and all professionals interested in the continent's clean, just energy transition. Join us for a crucial conversation that will help define the next phase of Africa's transport transformation. Date: Wednesday, 23 July 2025 Time: 10:00 WAT / 11:00 SAST&CAT / 12:00 EAT Register here: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.
The Guardian
4 days ago
- The Guardian
Beep, beep, beep: the sound of a stolen Lime e-bike
Stolen Lime e-bikes emit a persistent beeping sound as an intended deterrent – some people hate it, others think 'it's the sound of the summer'
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
Travel for the rich and famous: it's all about private flying cars and submarines
While we wait for flying taxis to hit our skies, some are taking matters into their own hands and buying their own flying cars. No longer the stuff of sci-fi movies, they're real vehicles that transition between driving and flying. Google co-founder Larry Page has funded multiple flying car startups while LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman is a significant investor in Joby Aviation, a leading electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi company. Among the more well-known companies building flying cars are PAL-V, AeroMobil, and Klein Vision's AirCar, which recently completed a successful intercity flight. According to Morgan Stanley, the flying car market is projected to reach $9 trillion (Dh33 trillion) by 2050. Many manufacturers are developing flying cars for national governments and cities, while others have one eye on wealthy individuals looking to beat traffic jams, and arrive in style. One such firm is Alef Aeronautics, which will let you pre-order its flying car for $150 (Dh550), while $1,500 (Dh5,509) will get you in the priority queue for the $300,000 (Dh1.1 million) car. An Alef spokesman told KT LUXE that it currently has 3,400 entries for its Model A. 'Alef is currently producing flying cars for exhibition and research and development purposes only, but is planning first customer deliveries soon. We're currently focused on safety and optimal functionality.' It says its typical customers tend to live in rural areas, and their primary motivation is to significantly reduce daily commute time. The UAE is on track to launch commercial air taxi services within the next year. In July, Joby conducted the first fully-piloted test flights in Dubai, including vertical takeoff, cruise, and landing, while Abu Dhabi Aviation and Archer have completed initial vertical flight tests at Al Bateen Airport. While regulations are being put in place for commercial services, laws for private use may not be far behind. Land and air Alef says its flying car is designed to comply with all existing laws and regulations without requiring changes — automotive regulations on the ground and aviation regulations for its specific class of aircraft in the air. 'In the future, as scale increases, we expect regulations to be created specifically for this new class of transportation. Owning the first flying car in history is the greatest luxury at this point,' the spokesman added. On the ground, flying cars operate like a normal car or electric vehicle (EV). In the air, the 'driver' would require the same training as an operator of any other ultralight aircraft would. As for the vehicle's operating costs, they are similar to those of owning an EV. Dutch aviation company Pal-V's flagship model is the Liberty, which, it says, is a 'user-friendly, personal aircraft for daily medium- and long-distance commutes'. Users can drive to one of the world's 40,000+ airstrips, convert the vehicle in a matter of minutes, and fly to wherever they want to go. PAL-V has two different versions — the Liberty Sport (from $400,000/Dh1.4 million) and the limited-edition Pioneer, expected to cost around $600,000 (Dh2.2million). It promotes its flying car as a practical solution to beating traffic jams for short trips and breaks. 'Going for a business trip, a romantic dinner, or a weekend getaway? With the PAL-V Liberty, you decide when and where to go,' its website states. Among the airstrips it lists are a number in the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Jebel Ali, Dubai and Al Ain. Both a driver's license and an autogyro pilot's license are required to operate the vehicle. 'We will guide you to become a proficient, confident aviator. Our instructors are the best in the business and are there to make the learning experience fun and unforgettable,' it says. 'We will ensure you are a safe pilot who is able to fly the PAL-V all over the world to any place you desire, making it your reliable tool for every adventure.' Submarines The market for private submarines is still relatively niche, with a handful of elite builders leading the way. Notable names include Triton Submersibles and Perry Submarines, and often include options for entertainment systems, climate control, and underwater lighting, transforming a dive into an experience. 'All our clients have already been diving or snorkeling in the best spots around the world,' says Charles Kohnen, co-founder and chairman at SEAmagine, a manufacturer of small private submarines. 'They're looking for something beyond that with access to places very few have seen, but to do it in a way that's safe, comfortable, and completely different from anything they've done before.' Owners normally fall into two categories: either they are keenly interested in shipwrecks or they are all about seeing sea life at different depths. Plus, they tend to already own a yacht to keep the submarine on. 'When we find shipwrecks, those owners sometimes complain that there are too many fish in the way to see the shipwreck while the other group thinks that shipwrecks are a form of litter.' One unusual request was a 'his and hers' configuration with two oversized lounge seats for a more private experience. The two different interiors could be interchanged by the crew depending on who was going for the dive. Private submersibles are now focusing on comfort, space, and serenity, while offering an incredible panoramic view of the underwater world. 'We put a lot of emphasis on personal space. Our design features a large transparent viewing sphere where guests sit, while the pilot is seated in the rear centre section. That layout gives everyone more room to relax and enjoy the experience.' Some even have a Bose sound system inside, so guests can enjoy music during the dive. 'We've also rethought the boarding process. Unlike the typical awkward climb into a sub, ours has a beautiful teak top deck with handrails and a proper staircase that leads guests down into their seats — no gymnastics required. It's all about creating a serene, elegant journey from start to finish,' adds Kohnen. For SEAmagine, its instructors go on-site to train the pilot and support crew that will operate the sub. The training will typically take three-four weeks and involves a week of theory classes and two-three weeks of practical dives. As for costs, submersibles vary in price from $3 million to $8 million (Dh11 million to Dh29.3 million), depending on the number of passengers and maximum depth rating. Dutch company U-Boat Worx manufactures the NEMO, the world's only serially produced private submersible. 'Thanks to its compact footprint and low weight, it's ideally suited for private use, whether it's on a superyacht, a support vessel, or even from shore-based operations,' says Roy Heijdra, marketing manager for U-Boat Worx. Its customer base is diverse, but they all share a passion for the ocean and underwater exploration. 'Private individuals often use their submersibles for leisure diving — to explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, or marine wildlife with family and friends in complete comfort and safety.' It has taken things even further and built a luxury 42-metre submarine called Nautilus, which offers the best of both worlds — luxury yacht cruising and deep sea exploration. With state-of-the-art technology, it features a saloon, bar, master cabin, observation lounge, staterooms, and even a small gym. The final price of the Nautilus is to be determined, as each one is built to order.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Drivo Revolutionizes Car Rentals in New York with New Business-Focused Services
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - July 18, 2025) - Drivo, a leading car rental service in New York City, is redefining urban mobility for professionals and businesses. Known for its fast, reliable, and modern rental solutions, Drivo now introduces Business Vans and an innovative Loaner Car Program, designed to meet the demands of corporate travel and dealership support. With a focus on seamless experiences for business travelers, Drivo offers high-quality vehicles perfect for navigating NYC efficiently. From sleek sedans for executives to spacious business vans for team logistics, Drivo ensures every trip is productive and stress-free. Drivo's goal is to take the hassle out of car rentals for busy professionals. With Business Vans, companies can move teams or equipment with ease, while the company's on-demand Loaner Car Program helps dealerships keep their customers satisfied without the burden of managing a fleet. Why Drivo is Different: On-Demand Courtesy Cars - dealerships and service centers can instantly provide customers with quality loaner vehicles without the costs of ownership, maintenance, or logistics. Streamlined Operations - Drivo handles support, billing, and even roadside assistance, freeing businesses from administrative headaches. Smart Reporting - businesses get full visibility into gas usage, tolls, revenue, and more through seamless API integration with their systems. Local Expertise - with operations focused in New York and New Jersey, Drivo ensures faster vehicle sourcing and support. The Loaner Car Program eliminates the common pain points dealerships face - from time-consuming claims processing to hidden operational costs. Instead, Drivo offers a hands-off solution that enhances customer loyalty and satisfaction. For business travelers, Drivo is also the ideal partner for short-term and long-term rentals. Professionals can book in seconds and rely on Drivo's modern fleet and premium service standards. To learn more about Drivo's Business Vans and Loaner Car Program, visit About DrivoDrivo is a modern car rental service based in New York City, providing high-quality vehicles for personal and business use. Focused on convenience, flexibility, and customer satisfaction, Drivo simplifies mobility for individuals and organizations across New York and New Jersey. Media contact:Alexander Leemarketing@ 855-550-0008 To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Rapid KL On-Demand service adds 12 new zones in Shah Alam and Klang
KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 — Rapid KL's On-Demand van service will enter a new phase starting today, with its coverage expanding to 12 additional zones across Shah Alam and Klang in Selangor. In a statement yesterday, Rapid Bus Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, announced that the expanded service will include the areas of Persiaran Dato Menteri-KTM Shah Alam, KTM Padang Jawa-Terminal 17, KTM Padang Jawa-Seksyen 7, U12 Cahaya Alam, Bandar Baru Klang and KTM Klang-Batu Belah. The service will also be available in Taman Summit, KTM Klang-Teluk Gadong, Sri Andalas, Klang Jaya, Bandar Bukit Tinggi and Bandar Puteri. 'The expansion of the van service is part of Prasarana's ongoing commitment to strengthen urban mobility networks and improve accessibility to public transportation, particularly for first-mile and last-mile connectivity,' the statement read. Acting Prasarana Group president and chief executive officer, Amir Hamdan, was quoted as saying that the move reflects the company's goal of bringing communities closer to a reliable and inclusive public transport system. 'This isn't just about expanding routes, but more about ensuring equitable access to public transport. 'We want to make sure that every city dweller has access to mobility solutions that are efficient, affordable, and suited to their daily needs, especially in areas previously underserved by conventional bus routes,' he said. In a related development, the company said the Desa Pinggiran Putra-Dataran Gemilang Putrajaya service zone will be merged with the MRT Putrajaya Sentral-PICC route and renamed 'MRT Putrajaya Sentral-PICC and Desa Pinggiran Putra' to offer a more integrated and comprehensive service. The Rapid KL On-Demand van service guarantees a seat for each ride and is available daily from 6 am to 11.30 pm with a promotional fare of just RM1.00 per trip remains in effect to encourage more users to try the service. Bookings can be made easily via the Rapid On-Demand app downloadable from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. For more information on service zones and usage guides, visit the official website at or follow Rapid KL's official social media channels. — Bernama
