SAN DIEGO, CA, Apr 25, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has been selected to build production representative flight test articles of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) for the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's (AFLCMC) Advanced Aircraft Division. This option contract award by the Advanced Aircraft Division exercises the critical design, build, and flight test on the existing CCA contract with GA-ASI following an initial six-month phase that culminated in a successful CCA preliminary design review (PDR) earlier this year.
The CCA program aims to be a force multiplier, developing a low-cost, modular, unmanned aircraft equipped with advanced sensors or weapons and operating in collaborative teams with the next generation of manned combat aircraft.
In February 2024, GA-ASI successfully conducted the maiden flight of the XQ-67A CCA prototype aircraft validating the "genus/species" concept pioneered by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) as part of the Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Platform Sharing (LCAAPS) program. This program focused on building several aircraft variants from a common core chassis. Since then, this prototype for CCA has successfully completed two additional test flights, laying the groundwork for a successful production and flight test program. GA-ASI's CCA production representative design is based upon the XQ-67A Off-Board Sensing Station developed by GA-ASI for the AFRL.
"The CCA program redefines the future of aviation and will shape the USAF acquisition model to deliver affordable combat mass to the warfighter at the speed of relevancy," said Mike Atwood, Vice President of Advanced Programs for GA-ASI.
"Throughout our 30-year history, GA-ASI has been at the forefront of rapidly advancing unmanned aircraft systems that support our warfighters," said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. "The USAF is moving forward with GA-ASI due to our focused commitment to unmanned air-to-air combat operations and unmatched UAS experience, ensuring the production of the CCA aircraft at scale to deliver affordable combat mass for the warfighter."
To complement the CCA contract, GA-ASI will continue to conduct a series of autonomy and mission system tests on the MQ-20 Avenger® UAS and XQ-67A to accelerate the readiness of operational autonomy. These live flight tests will continue to demonstrate the readiness of the full mission capability to support the emerging U.S. Air Force Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP).
About GA-ASI
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.
Exhibition curated by The Andy Warhol Museum will tour Tokyo and other cities around the world through 2027
Tokyo and Pittsburgh, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Global Apparel retailer UNIQLO and The Andy Warhol Museum today revealed that UNIQLO will act as the Presenting Sponsor for the global run of KAWS + Warhol, opening May 18, 2024, at The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The exhibition features works by Andy Warhol and KAWS side-by-side and is the first to examine the dark themes present beneath the signature bright colors and pop culture references both artists are known for. UNIQLO support for the exhibition builds on the company’s years-long partnerships with both of these iconic artists. Based on the company’s long-held philosophy of Art for All, UNIQLO strives to make art more accessible to everyone.
“The concept of Art for All has long been a core part of the UNIQLO LifeWear philosophy, so we are delighted to support this monumental exhibition of works by both Andy Warhol and KAWS in reaching as many people as possible," said Koji Yanai, Senior Executive Officer of Fast Retailing, UNIQLO’s parent company. “This exhibition holds a special meaning for The Andy Warhol Museum, celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. This is also an important year for UNIQLO as we welcome our 40th anniversary, which we are honored to welcome alongside our long-term partners and collaborators.”
The KAWS + Warhol exhibition will be on view at The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from May 18, 2024, until January 20, 2025. The exhibition will tour internationally, stopping at Tokyo in 2026. UNIQLO will act as the Presenting Sponsor for the exhibition’s entire global tour to bring this collection of iconic works closer to the lives of people around the world.
“UNIQLO has a long association with both KAWS and Andy Warhol. The Andy Warhol Museum is honored to partner with UNIQLO to bring this extraordinary exhibition to a global audience.” said Patrick Moore, director of The Andy Warhol Museum and curator of KAWS + Warhol.
Andy Warhol’s art first appeared on UNIQLO products in 2004 under license with The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts and has been continuously featured on T-shirts and other products ever since. KAWS first collaborated with UT (UNIQLO T-shirt) for the Spring/Summer season of 2016 and has had collaboration collections with the brand of graphic T-shirts ever since. Past UT collections featuring these iconic artists can be viewed on the UNIQLO UT Archive website: https://www.uniqlo.com/jp/en/contents/feature/ut-archive/about/.
UNIQLO Art For All
For over a decade, UNIQLO has been committed to enhancing daily life through the appreciation of great art. The company endeavors to educate and increase public access and engagement with the most prominent art institutions in the world, including MoMA, Tate, the Louvre and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. These deep relationships with the world’s greatest museums are an expression of the UNIQLO LifeWear philosophy of Art for All.
About The Andy Warhol Museum
Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the place of Andy Warhol’s birth, The Andy Warhol Museum holds the largest collection of Warhol’s artworks and archival materials and is one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums in the world. The Warhol is one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.
About KAWS
KAWS engages audiences beyond the museums and galleries in which he regularly exhibits. Over the last two decades, KAWS has built a successful career with work that consistently shows his formal agility as an artist, as well as his underlying wit, irreverence, and affection for our times. He has collaborated extensively with UNIQLO, including by providing designs for the PEACE FOR ALL charity project in 2022, which was a huge worldwide success.
About UNIQLO LifeWear
Apparel that comes from the Japanese values of simplicity, quality and longevity. Designed to be of the time and for the time, LifeWear is made with such modern elegance that it becomes the building blocks of each individual’s style. A perfect shirt that is always being made more perfect. The simplest design hiding the most thoughtful and modern details. The best in fit and fabric made to be affordable and accessible to all. LifeWear is clothing that is constantly being innovated, bringing more warmth, more lightness, better design, and better comfort to people’s lives.
About UNIQLO and Fast Retailing
UNIQLO is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a leading Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. UNIQLO is the largest of eight brands in the Fast Retailing Group, the others being GU, Theory, PLST, Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam, J Brand and Helmut Lang. With global sales of approximately 2.77 trillion yen for the 2023 fiscal year ending August 31, 2023 (US $18.92 billion, calculated in yen using the end of August 2023 rate of $1 = 146.2 yen), Fast Retailing is one of the world’s largest apparel retail companies, and UNIQLO is Japan’s leading specialty retailer.
UNIQLO continues to open large-scale stores in some of the world's most important cities and locations, as part of its ongoing efforts to solidify its status as a global brand. Today the company has a total of more than 2,400 UNIQLO stores across the world, including Japan, Asia, Europe and North America. The total number of stores across Fast Retailing's brands is now close to 3,600.
With a corporate statement committed to changing clothes, changing conventional wisdom and change the world, Fast Retailing is dedicated to creating great clothing with new and unique value to enrich the lives of people everywhere. For more information about UNIQLO and Fast Retailing, please visit www.uniqlo.com and www.fastretailing.com.
SINGAPORE, Apr 25, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - Despite the well-known importance of sleep for physical and mental well-being, a significant portion of Singaporeans find themselves grappling with chronic sleep deprivation. According to a recentstudy published by YouGovsg, Singaporeans have been deemed to be the most sleep-deprived globally. Only 1 in 4 Singaporeans have an ideal sleep cycle of 7 hours or more, with insomnia being a highly common sleep disorder that affects up to 15.3% of the local population. This phenomenon has far-reaching implications for individual health, productivity, and overall societal well-being.
LAC understands the importance of the role that sleep plays in our day to day overall wellbeing. In conjunction with World Health Day, LAC is looking to raise awareness among Singaporeans from all walks of life who are struggling with having healthy sleep habits, highlighting the importance of having adequate sleep and how it enhances their overall well-being.
LAC’s TriAction Sleep Formula, formulated with a blend of ingredients such as Valerian Root, Saffron Extract, Magnesium and Melatonin helps to regulate sleep cycle and supports relaxation throughout the entire duration. Unlike conventional sleep aids that offer temporary respite but risk fostering dependency, LAC’s TriAction Sleep Formula harnesses the power of a proprietary blend of ingredients and herbs, offering a non-habit forming solution for those grappling with sleep disturbances. Engineered with triple-layer technology, it ensures both immediate and sustained release, fostering not only relaxation but also an elevated sleep experience.
Insufficient sleep also poses a significant risk of fat accumulation in the liver, a fact often overlooked. Enter LAC’s Liver Protector, meticulously crafted with ingredients drawn from traditional Chinese medicine such as Sanchi and Red Peony Root. The potent elements found in LAC’s Liver Protector aid in detoxifying the body, combating lipid build up and restoring hormonal imbalance, reducing the risk of liver disease that is often associated with poor or inadequate sleep.
Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
TOKYO, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced that the company has reached a basic agreement with Asahi Kasei Corporation on collaboration for the production of battery separators for automotive batteries in Canada. The two companies will begin detailed discussions with the goal to establish a joint venture company before the end of 2024.
A battery separator is a porous membrane* with the function of preventing electrical short circuits by blocking contact between cathode and anode materials while allowing lithium ions to permeate through it. The separator is a critical component of lithium-ion batteries.
The two companies reached this basic agreement based on a shared understanding that it is important to establish a supply chain that would ensure stable supply of high-performance batteries in the North American electrification market, where mid- to long-term growth is expected. Based on this agreement, the two companies will begin discussions toward the establishment of a joint venture company which will produce separators for automotive batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) Honda will produce and sell in North America as well as for batteries to be supplied to other OEMs.
The two companies will share each other’s strengths, such as high value-added material technologies and electrification technologies, to produce high-quality separators to be utilized for EV batteries. This will enable the realization of high-performance EVs, which will lead to the acceleration of respective initiatives toward carbon neutrality.
Comments by Hiroyoshi Matsuyama, Senior Executive Officer of Asahi Kasei Corp.
“At Asahi Kasei, we have been positioning our energy storage business as one of the ‘10 Growth Gears (GG10),’ which will drive the future growth of Asahi Kasei Group. At the core of this area, our Hipore™ lithium-ion battery (LIB) separator business has been leading technological innovation throughout its history of more than 40 years to contribute to the advancement of LIBs. Through this collaboration, by deepening our cooperation with Honda, which has extensive experience in North America and has been committed to electrification of automobiles, we will play a role in the growth of the EV market as well as the energy transition in North America by contributing to a further increase in the productivity, safety and battery life of LIBs required in the era of full-fledged electrification.”
Comments by Manabu Ozawa, Managing Executive Officer of Honda Motor Co. Ltd.
“Striving to realize carbon neutrality, Honda has set a goal to make BEVs and FCEVs represent 100% of our global vehicle sales by 2040. Separators are extremely important battery materials that contribute to the enhancement of battery performance and durability, which are essential for EVs. The production of separators in Canada through the partnership with Asahi Kasei, which has outstanding technological strengths and extensive knowledge, will be a challenge Honda will take on with great significance. Through this initiative, Honda will continue creating EVs with greater competitiveness and fulfill demand for electrified vehicles in the North American market where continuous growth is expected into the future.”
*Porous membrane is a membrane that features network of tiny holes (pores) which makes the membrane permeable. Due to the permeability, porous membrane is used for separators and ion-exchange membranes.
Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
HONG KONG, Apr 25, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883) is pleased to announce the company is now a VMware Cloud Service Provider (VCSP) Pinnacle tier partner in the Broadcom Advantage Partner Program for multiple regions, including Hong Kong, Mainland China, Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, to help mutual enterprise customers to innovate by adopting VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) as their private cloud infrastructure. CITIC Telecom CPC will deliver new managed VMware Cloud Foundation private cloud services, including sovereign cloud services that support data residency and other jurisdictional controls.
With an extensive expertise in VMware Technology and a customer-centric approach, CITIC Telecom CPC leads the competition with its advanced technological platform. In line with this, CITIC Telecom CPC will add the new VMware Cloud Foundation to their portfolio of services, helping organizations modernize infrastructure with the best possible TCO, deliver a frictionless self-service experience for developers with consolidated VM and container-based workload support on a single platform, and provide enterprise-grade resiliency and security. CITIC Telecom CPC intends to support the new license portability feature of VCF in Hong Kong, Mainland China, Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, which will put into place a flexible hybrid cloud experience for customers.
“As a Pinnacle partner, CITIC Telecom CPC’s expertise, experience and influence in the industry will play a crucial role in helping to lead our customers on their cloud journey,” said Ahmar Mohammad , Vice President, Partners, Managed Services, and Solutions GTM, VMware Cloud Foundation Division at Broadcom. “The VCSP Pinnacle tier is designed to build stronger relationships with our most valued VCSP partners to help customers implement a highly efficient cloud operating model that combines public cloud scale and agility with private cloud security and performance.”
“We are delighted to have achieved the prestigious Pinnacle Partner in the esteemed Broadcom Advantage program, reaffirming our steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional VCF platform services,” said Taylor Lam, Chief Strategy Officer, CITIC Telecom CPC. “At CITIC Telecom CPC, we strive to fortify the ecosystem and empower stronger relationships, harnessing the synergy to provide exceptional services that meet our customers’ needs. Our achievement in attaining the Pinnacle Partner level in Hong Kong, Mainland China, Singapore, Japan and Taiwan, positions CITIC Telecom CPC as a leader in providing VCF platform services and SmartCloud™ Cloud solutions to these regions. This significant milestone demonstrates our unwavering commitment to excellence and uniquely positions us as a leading provider, offering cost-effective, high-quality, secure and scalable services, including seamless migration from on-premises environments to Virtual Cloud Services. With a strong emphasis on security, our migration services prioritize the protection of our clients' data and infrastructure. We look forward to leveraging this collaboration to reinforce our presence in these dynamic markets, delivering exceptional, hassle-free cloud services and comprehensive migration solutions that solidify our reputation as the best choice for businesses in these regions.”
CITIC Telecom CPC has not only achieved the VMware Pinnacle tier in multiple regions, but also has attained as the first company to be VMware Sovereign Cloud partner in Hong Kong, providing a range of services, including trusted infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-service (PaaS), Software-as-a-service (SaaS), Anything-as-a-service (XaaS) and professional services. This allows us to effectively optimize customers’ businesses across borders in a secure cloud environment. With a global infrastructure comprising nearly 170 points of presence, 60+ SDWAN gateways, 30+ data centers, and 21 Cloud Service Centers, supported by three dedicated 24x7 Cloud and Security Operations Centers, we ensure seamless integration of on-premises VMware environments through our VCF-based Hybrid Cloud, enabling workload mobility and flexibility. Our comprehensive offerings cover cloud computing and AI, network connectivity, security, and ongoing support services, delivering exceptional value and a complete suite of solutions to our customers.
Pinnacle is the highest program level in the Broadcom Advantage Partner program. Pinnacle partners are Broadcom’s most invested and strategic partners, boasting extensive certifications, a track record of significant sales and service achievements, and broad international coverage. Holding Pinnacle status signifies a partner's deep technological know-how and proficiency in addressing the most intricate customer issues. Broadcom works in close partnership with Pinnacle partners, including co-selling to mutual customers, to provide the foundational technology that drives the digital landscape.
About CITIC Telecom CPC
We are CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883), serving multinational enterprises the world over by addressing their specific ICT requirements with highly scalable tailored solutions built upon our flagship technology suites, comprising TrueCONNECT™ private network solutions, TrustCSI™ information security solutions, DataHOUSE™ cloud data center solutions, and SmartCLOUD™ cloud computing solutions.
With the motto “Innovation Never Stops,” we leverage innovative technologies, embracing AI, AR, Big Data, IoT, and other cutting-edge emerging technologies to transform technical potential into business value for our customers. As an enterprise digital transformation partner, we strive to help our customers achieve industry-leading positions, high agility, and cost-efficiency through digitalization.
With our Global-Local capabilities, we are committed to providing our customers with one-stop-shop ICT solutions with superior quality. Having a worldwide footprint across nearly 160 countries and regions, including Asia, Europe and America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, our global network resources connect nearly 170 points of presence (POPs), 60+ SDWAN gateways, 21 Cloud service centers, 30+ data centers, and three dedicated 24x7 Security Operations Centers (SOCs). We are certified with a series of international certifications, including SD-WAN Ready, ISO 9001, 14001, 20000, 27001, and 27017, to ensure our services compliance with international standards and resources for enterprises. We offer local professional services, superior delivery capabilities as well as exceptional customer experience and best practices through our global presence and extensive industry know-how, becoming a leading integrated intelligent ICT service provider to enterprise customers.
Toyota City, Japan, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is exhibiting at the 2024 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition* to showcase its efforts in China, centered around intelligence, electrification, and diversification, as part of the transformation into a mobility company. The exhibit also highlights the company's creation of new value through products and services tailored to customer needs.
In addition, Toyota debuted two new battery EV (BEV) models, the bZ3C and the bZ3X, as part of the company's multi-pathway approach to achieving carbon neutrality.
Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Hiroki Nakajima presented the new cars at a press conference held on the same day, saying, "What kind of BEV would bring smiles to the faces of our Chinese customers? Working with our partners in China, this quest led us to the bZ3C and the bZ3X." The models unveiled as concept cars at last year's Auto Shanghai have been upgraded for mass production. Toyota plans to begin selling both in China within a year.
The bZ3C was jointly developed by Toyota, BYD TOYOTA EV TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and Intelligent ElectroMobility R&D Center by TOYOTA (China) Co., Ltd. (IEM by TOYOTA). Designed around the concept of a "Reboot," this dynamic, distinctively styled crossover BEV focuses on features that create a fun personal space for younger Generation Z customers.
The bZ3X was jointly developed by Toyota, Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd., GAC Toyota Motor Co., Ltd., and IEM by TOYOTA. This family-oriented SUV-type BEV offers a large interior space based on the concept of providing a mobile "Cozy Home."
Both models are equipped with the latest driver-assistance systems and smart cockpits, delivering safe, comfortable driving alongside new experience value.
Toyota will continue working toward a mobility future filled with smiles and diversity, catering to the needs of customers in every region.
*Press: April 25-26, Trade: April 27-28, General public: April 29-May 4
Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
BEIJING, CHINA, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda today exhibited and announced new information about the second set of Honda e:N Series electric vehicle (EV) models, the all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2, at the 18th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (Auto China 2024), which began today in Beijing, China (Press days: April 25-26, Trade days: April 27-28, Public days: April 29-May 5, 2024).
The all-new e:NP2 goes on sale today from GAC Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. (GAC Honda), a Honda automobile production and sales joint venture in China. The all-new e:NS2 will go on sale from Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. (Dongfeng Honda), another Honda automobile production and sales joint venture in China, in June 2024.
Starting from the 2022 introduction of the e:NS1 and e:NP1 models, Honda is planning to introduce a total of 10 Honda-brand EV models in China by 2027, striving to make EVs represent 100% of its automobile sales in China by 2035.
e:NP2
Striving to create EVs that offer new value to the customer, Honda further refined the e:N Series concept of “Dynamics, Intelligence and Beauty” for the development of the all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2. The development team strived to offer customers an exhilarating mobility experience by combining a cabin space that conveys clean feeling and sense of intelligence, with a driving experience in which the driver enjoys a sense of oneness with the vehicle.
The e:NP2 features a linear and clear design, whereas the e:NS2 features an emotional design that stimulates people who see the vehicle, each expressing a different smart image and vision for the future.
Key features of the e:NP2 and e:NS2
Dynamics:The e:N Architecture F, one of the dedicated platforms for the e:N Series, was combined with dynamics technologies that Honda has amassed to date to realize an exhilarating driving experience in which the driver enjoys a sense of oneness with the vehicle. Moreover, with the adoption of a high-capacity battery for the IPU (Intelligent Power Unit), the further advancement of battery control technology and a reduction of driving resistance, the all-new e:NP2 realized a range of 545 km (based on the CLTC [China Light Duty Vehicle Test Cycle] standards).
Intelligence:The all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2 feature an advanced and highly functional human-machine interface (HMI), including a large-sized Honda Head-Up Display and the light emission patterns of the interior lights that change in conjunction with vehicle functions. Through further advancement of the large-sized 12.8-inch Display Audio and Honda CONNECT 4.0, the latest version of connectivity technologies designed exclusively for Honda EVs in China, convenience and comfort for all occupants were further enhanced.
Moreover, to improve driving comfort during the winter, the all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2 feature the Intelligent Heating System which minimizes power consumption through various measures such as a cooperative control of the air conditioning unit and other onboard heating features. The all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2 are first among all Honda models to adopt this system.
Beauty:The all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2 feature sophisticated and futuristic exterior designs that combine the excellent utility of SUVs with the sleek form of sedans. The interior design team strived to create a clean horizontal design theme for the instrument panel and a comfortable cabin space that envelopes occupants with high-quality materials.
Moreover, the all-new e:NP2 and e:NS2 will be the first Honda models to adopt an aroma system that enables the occupants to use the large-sized Display Audio or the available smartphone app to select their favorite fragrance and diffuse it throughout the vehicle.
Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
SINGAPORE, Apr 25, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) -HubSpot, the customer platform for scaling businesses, has released new data from a global research survey1 that indicates companies in Singapore are transforming their business models in response to global megatrends such as generative AI and changing customer expectations.
From economic downturns to the rise of new social channels, businesses have to pivot with the times, all the time. But the AI era is different. Small and Medium Businesses (SMEs) are operating in a new reality, and it requires more than just adapting to change. It requires reinvention. According to HubSpot’s research, eight in ten (81 per cent) Singapore companies said they've evolved more in the past four years than the previous two decades - the highest level of disruption across all countries surveyed.
In 2024, local companies are navigating a new reality where keeping pace with technological disruption and innovation is critical to business success. Singapore companies are the most likely globally to feel that their current growth tactics are becoming less effective (71 per cent) and are also the most likely across all countries surveyed to agree that the introduction of AI has required them to reinvent (82 per cent) their business.
Kat Warboys, Senior Marketing Director of APAC, HubSpot, said: “A combination of rising business costs, new technology and evolving customer expectations have impacted the effectiveness of conventional growth tactics among Singapore’s businesses, accelerating a need for reinvention. Our research shows that a majority of local businesses agree that personalised, impactful customer experiences, powered by AI and automation, will be vital to their growth in 2024. Long term success will be determined by the ability of businesses to effectively engage with their audiences across multiple channels throughout the customer journey, and demonstrate value to customers to maximise retention.”
To empower Singapore companies with the right capabilities to meet evolving customer expectations, HubSpot today announced the launch of the new Service Hub and Content Hub. These tools are designed to help local businesses deliver streamlined, personalised customer experiences, which eight in ten (80 per cent) local companies view as key to business growth. These solutions are part of HubSpot’s Spotlight, a bi-annual initiative where the company highlights its latest innovations to help SMEs win.
Today, customers are everywhere. Their purchase path is fragmented across multiplying channels, and marketers are left facing two major challenges: reach and relevance. Companies need to efficiently meet customers wherever they are, and do it with quality content that’s personalised, unique and valuable.
However, Singapore companies are struggling to meet demands for multi-channel content, with 82 per cent - the highest globally - sharing a need for tools to help remix content from one format or channel to another. Singapore is also the most likely across all countries surveyed by HubSpot to cite an increasing number of channels as a pain point (40 per cent).
“The data suggests that while reinvention is necessary for success, it is not a one size fits all approach. Brands working to effectively reach audiences must connect with customers on a deeper level by leveraging personalised content tailored for the channels these customers most commonly reside on. While this may not be a simple process, it is a journey that many businesses are on, or need to commence, in order to understand and produce content that best engages customers,” shared Warboys.
To help local businesses meet demands for remixed, multi-channel content, HubSpot has launched Content Hub. The all-in-one marketing solution, powered by HubSpot AI, helps to create and manage content across the entire customer journey, through tools like AI Content Creation, Content Remix, Brand Voice, Audio Tooling, Members Blog and Gated Content Library (among others). This helps brands to more effectively meet and engage their customers by generating content customised for various channels, formats, and audience profile, with a consistent brand voice.
HubSpot Content Hub - Content Remix
Transforming CX teams into revenue drivers with the all-new Service Hub
A separate HubSpot study2 revealed that nine in ten (92 per cent) Singapore companies agreed that consumers find customer service interactions frustrating. There is a clear disconnect between what local brands think their audience needs, and what their customers and prospects actually want. SMEs need to double down on keeping existing customers happy, especially since acquiring a new one can be up to 25 times more expensive3. This is one of the many reasons a brand’s customer support and success teams play such a critical role in the bottom line.
The HubSpot study also found that 81 per cent of Singapore companies considered customer service and customer success separate functions with distinct goals and responsibilities. This hinders visibility and the flow of information across customer facing teams, impacting the ability to deliver impactful, personalised customer service. Common challenges faced by customer service teams in Singapore include extracting meaningful insights from customer data (49 per cent), tracking KPIs (46 per cent), ensuring alignment of customer service goals with overall business objectives (38 per cent), as well as ensuring agents have access to accurate and relevant information (34 per cent).
Aligning with Singapore’s strong national focus on AI, the study uncovered that nearly all (96 per cent) local companies are using AI as part of the customer service process. To transform customer service into a more proactive function, about two thirds of (66 per cent) CX teams in Singapore are implementing predictive analytics and AI-driven tools to better anticipate customer needs.
The all-new Service Hub, powered by HubSpot AI, is the only solution that brings together customer support and success functions for the first time, helping businesses scale support and drive retention through data-backed insights and connected workflows. In line with strong local adoption of AI, Service Hub features over a dozen AI-powered tools such as chatbots and real-time reply recommendations to boost customer successes.
HubSpot Service Hub - Customer Success Dashboard
“With Service Hub, our reps hit the ground running thanks to a complete view of the customer journey,” said Jennifer Cummings, Sr. Director, Customer Engagement at Kaplan. “Since bringing our marketing, sales, and service teams together on HubSpot, it's completely removed the guesswork for our leaders, giving them visibility and confidence that customers are getting what they need, quickly.”
"In today’s business landscape, change is measured in days and weeks, not years. The speed of reinvention can be daunting, but technology advancements offer a significant opportunity for Singapore companies, especially SMEs, to adapt to new market trends and continue meeting evolving customer needs. With consumers expecting personalised experiences that align with their values and preferences, meeting these expectations requires businesses to connect with customers through channels that serve them best. These solutions from HubSpot are aimed at helping Singapore companies thrive in the digital economy,” explained Warboys.
Learn more about these solutions and more than 100 updates made across the customer platform at hubspot.com/spotlight.
Key Features of HubSpot’s New Service Hub and Content Hub
*Powered by HubSpot AI
Service Hub To help CX leaders scale support, Service Hub includes:
Help Desk Workspace: Unlocks productivity for reps with an at-a-glance view of everything that matters most — from real-time ticket updates to omnichannel conversations — plus the ability to organise, search, and filter for improved discovery.
Tools for businesses to scale support:
Advanced SLAs for better, more complex reporting and operations.
Robust routing tools to ensure tickets go to the right reps at the right time.
Workforce management settings and APIs to set user availability, working hours, and skills.
To help success teams drive retention, Service Hub includes:
Customer Success Workspace: Customer Success Managers (CSMs) can manage their entire book of business in one place with actionable insights and custom segments. The workspace includes:
Account activity & pipelines specific to each CSM’s portfolio for easy access to the most important information.
Customer health scores so CSMs can identify churn risk, prioritise outreach, and address needs proactively.
Product usage integrations with essential apps like Pendo, Amplitude, Segment or HubSpot's Custom Events API.
Service Hub also features over a dozen AI-powered tools, including:
GPT-powered Chatbot* for 24/7 support, freeing up reps to focus on complex issues.
Real-time Reply Recommendations* and Conversation Summaries* to speed up time to resolution, including multilingual support*.
Suggested next steps* to help reps take action after customer calls.
Content Hub Content Hub includes:
AI Content Creation* to make quality multilingual content creation simple — from generating ideas, to writing blog posts, to creating images.
Content Remix* to easily create a full pipeline of content based on a single asset. 82 per cent of Singapore marketers agree that this is exactly the kind of tool they need according to HubSpot research.
Brand Voice* to define and generate content that has a consistent brand voice — from blogs, to social, to email.
Audio Tooling to create, host, and distribute Podcasts* and Post Narration* to turn text into audio for better content accessibility.
Members Blog and Gated Content Library to manage content, offer premium content, and easily capture leads.
1 HubSpot: State of Business Growth Research (March 2024) 2 HubSpot: CX Leader Market Research (October 2023) 3Harvard Business Review
About HubSpot
HubSpot (NYSE: HUBS) is the customer platform that helps your business grow better. HubSpot delivers seamless connection for customer-facing teams with a unified platform that includes AI-powered engagement hubs, a Smart CRM, and a connected ecosystem with over 1,500 App Marketplace integrations, a community network, and educational content from HubSpot Academy. Today, over 205,000 customers, like DoorDash, Reddit, Eventbrite, and Tumblr, across more than 135 countries use HubSpot to attract, engage, and delight customers. Learn more at www.hubspot.com.
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Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
TOKYO, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has started operation of a test module of the Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC), a next-generation high-efficiency hydrogen production technology, at Takasago Hydrogen Park*, located within its Takasago Machinery Works in Takasago City, Hyogo Prefecture in west central Japan. SOEC is based on technology for the previously developed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC). In addition to its advantage of high efficiency, the use of MHI's proprietary tubular cell stack supports development as a technology capable of operating at high pressures, setting it apart from competing systems. The test module with a capacity of 400 kW was designed and manufactured based on the technology adopted for the SOFC, following development of core technologies at the Nagasaki Carbon Neutral Park (Nagasaki City). The system was installed at the Takasago Hydrogen Park, and started operation. The results of this research will be utilized to support even higher output and greater capacity.
400kW class SOEC test module
The SOEC test module comprises a module with multiple cartridges of 500 cell stacks bundled together. During test operations, the electrolytic efficiency of the module was 3.5 kWh/Nm3 (101%-HHV (higher heating value)), confirming that the module was operating with high efficiency. This is a major step forward toward achieving MHI's goal of building a system with an overall efficiency of 90%-HHV.
At Nagasaki Carbon Neutral Park, MHI has also successfully conducted cartridge tests under larger amounts of electric current condition per cell stack, steadily making progress toward development of a "megawatt class" SOEC with high power density. In addition, MHI plans to install a megawatt-class SOEC system demonstration facility at Takasago Hydrogen Park within the next few years, and is moving forward with preparations for integrated verification within the park, with the aim of commercialization of the system following actual operation.
Takasago Hydrogen Park is the world's first facility with the capability for integrated verification of hydrogen technologies, from production to power generation. It is divided into three areas according to functions for hydrogen production, storage, and utilization (power generation). In the hydrogen production area, an alkaline electrolyzer manufactured by Norway's HydrogenPro AS, which has one of the world's highest hydrogen production capacities at 1,100Nm3/h, was put into operation in September 2023. The hydrogen storage area is equipped with a storage facility with total capacity of 39,000 Nm3, part of a project subsidized by Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). In November 2023, using hydrogen produced and stored in the park, MHI also successfully conducted a demonstration operation of 30% hydrogen fuel co-firing using a state-of-the-art J-series Air-Cooled (JAC) gas turbine at the gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) demonstration power plant (commonly known as T-Point 2, rated output of 566 megawatts) located in the hydrogen utilization area. In 2024, MHI plans to conduct a 100% hydrogen-firing demonstration using a small- to mid-sized H-25 gas turbine (40 MW class) that had been previously installed for compressor driving at the combustion test facility in the park.
Going forward, in the hydrogen production area of Takasago Hydrogen Park, MHI plans to proceed with demonstrations aimed at the commercialization of hydrogen production equipment with different characteristics, such as anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis and methane pyrolysis. In addition, in the hydrogen storage area, MHI will further expand its facilities with construction to increase the total capacity of the hydrogen storage facility to 120,000 Nm3, which is about three times the current capacity, in preparation for the demonstration operation of a JAC-type gas turbine using a 50% hydrogen fuel co-firing using the JAC gas turbine at T-Point 2.
Takuya Murase, Senior Fellow, Senior General Manager for the GTCC Business Division of Energy Systems and Head of Takasago Machinery Works, said: "The expectations placed on Takasago Machinery Works, both internally and from society at large, to implement MHI Group's MISSION NET ZERO and achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, are higher than ever. The year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of Takasago's founding. We will continue to pursue the energy transition with Takasago Hydrogen Park at the core of our efforts, and make further leaps forward."
MHI Group is pursuing the Energy Transition as an engine for corporate growth based on its MISSION NET ZERO declaration aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. Utilizing Takasago Hydrogen Park, MHI Group will accelerate the development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies and verification of systems, and by providing highly reliable products, will continue to contribute to the stable supply of electricity worldwide and the rapid realization of a carbon neutral world.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
HIROSHIMA, Japan, Apr 25, 2024 - (JCN Newswire) - Mazda Motor Corporation's production and sales results for March 2024 and for April 2023 through March 2024 are summarized below.
I. Production
1. Domestic Production
(1) March 2024
Mazda's domestic production volume in March 2024 decreased 25.1% year on year due to decreased production of passenger vehicles.
[Domestic production of key models in March 2024]
CX-5:
30,182 units
(down 12.2% year on year)
MAZDA3:
7,980 units
(down 23.1%)
CX-30:
6,263 units
(down 26.6%)
(2) April 2023 through March 2024
Mazda's domestic production volume in the period from April 2023 through March 2024 increased 4.5% year on year despite a increase in the production of passenger vehicles.
[Domestic production key models in the period from April 2023 through March 2024]
CX-5:
364,198 units
(up 4.9% year on year)
MAZDA3:
95,796 units
(up 19.7%)
CX-30:
85,061 units
(up 29.1%)
2. Overseas Production
(1) March 2024
Mazda's overseas production volume in March 2024 decreased 5.1% year on year due to decreased production of passenger vehicles.
[Overseas production of key models in March 2024]
CX-30:
12,497 units
(down 13.8% year on year)
CX-50:
8,942 units
(up 108.1%)
MAZDA3:
6,877 units
(up 0.3%)
(2) April 2023 through March 2024
Mazda's overseas production volume in the period from April 2023 through March 2024 increased 13.4% year on year due to increased production of passenger vehicles.
[Overseas production of key models in the period from April 2023 through March 2024]
CX-30:
141,465 units
(up 11.8% year on year)
MAZDA3:
94,936 units
(up 15.6%)
CX-50:
84,528 units
(up 103.9%)
II. Domestic Sales
(1) March 2024
Mazda's domestic sales volume in March 2024 decreased 33.4% year on year due to decreased sales of passenger and commercial vehicles.Mazda's registered vehicle market share was 3.8% (down 1.7 points year on year), with a 3.1% share of the micro-mini segment (up 1.4points) and a 3.6% total market share (down 0.6 points).
[Domestic sales of key models in March 2024]
CX-5:
2,295 units
(down 47.7% year on year)
CX-30:
1,715 units
(down 30.5%)
MAZDA3:
1,520 units
(down 13.3%)
(2) April 2023 through March 2024
Mazda's total domestic sales volume in the period from April 2023 through March 2024 decreased 2.8% year on year due to decreased sales of passenger vehicles.Mazda's registered vehicle market share was 4.2% (down 0.7 points year on year), with a 2.3% share of the micro-mini segment (up 0.4 points) and a 3.5% total market share (down 0.3 points).
[Domestic sales of key models in the period from April 2023 through March 2024]
CX-5:
23,602 units
(down 13.4% year on year)
MAZDA2:
18,362 units
(down 19.8%)
CX-30:
15,634 units
(down 5.2 %)
III. Exports
(1) March 2024Mazda's export volume in March 2024 decreased 20.6% year on year due to decreased shipments to North America and other regions.
[Exports of key models in March 2024]
CX-5:
25,542 units
(down 10.3% year on year)
MAZDA3:
6,574 units
(down 21.3%)
CX-30:
4,863 units
(down 32.3%)
(2) April 2023 through March 2024
Mazda's export volume in the period from April 2023 through March 2024 increased 8.9% year on year due to increased shipments to Europe and North America.
[Exports of key models in the period from April 2023 through March 2024]
CX-5:
338,173 units
(up 6.3% year on year)
MAZDA3:
83,012 units
(up 25.0%)
CX-30:
68,087 units
(up 43.3%)
IV. Global Sales
(1) March 2024
Mazda's global sales volume in March 2024 decreased 7.7% year on year due to decreased sales in Japan, Europe, and other regions.
[Global sales of key models in March 2024]
CX-5:
32,382 units
(down 10.5% year on year)
CX-30:
24,206 units
(up 17.4%)
MAZDA3:
16,669 units
(up 7.5%)
(2) April 2023 through March 2024
Mazda's global sales volume for April 2023 through March 2024 increased 11.8% year on year due to increased sales in the US, Europe, China, and other regions.
[Global sales of key models in the period from April 2023 through March 2024]
CX-5:
350,339 units
(up 1.5% year on year)
CX-30:
213,081 units
(up 22.7%)
MAZDA3:
187,907 units
(up 21.1%)
* Overseas production figures indicate Mazda-brand units coming off the production line (excluding CKD units).* Global production figures are the sum total of domestic and overseas production volumes.* All information in this press release is as of the release date. No updates after that date are reflected.
For more information, visit https://newsroom.mazda.com/en/publicity/release/2024/202404/240425c.html.
Copyright 2024 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
