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Ilika CEO discusses £3.4 million capital raise to fund development of Goliath solid-state batteries

Ilika PLC

Ilika PLC CEO Graeme Purdy joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with details of a share placing and open offer to retail investors aimed at raising up to £3.4 million. Purdy explained the capital injection is targeted at furthering the development of its Goliath technology. The company recently entered into a 12-month collaboration with Tata Group subsidiary Agratas to evaluate Goliath technology, during which Ilika intends to achieve its remaining milestones. Additionally, Ilika plans to use the funds to upgrade its dry room facilities to handle moisture-sensitive materials more effectively. This involves lowering the dew points to reduce environmental humidity, crucial for its leading-edge battery development. The capital will also help in enhancing its testing facilities to accommodate larger battery sizes, which are necessary to meet increased power requirements and customer expectations. Purdy highlighted key achievements including reaching the D4 development point and approaching the D8 milestone, which is set for Q1 2025. The advancements aim at achieving lithium-ion energy density parity and improving battery performance. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 13, 2024 10:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Boeing’s Chairman is Leaving Under a Cloud – So Why Does Exxon Want Him on Their Board?

NLPC

In a case of corporate elitists’ blindness at best, and ineptitude in governance at worst, Exxon Mobil Corporation’s directors have renominated Lawrence “Larry” Kellner, who is also the departing Chairman of the crisis-plagued Boeing Company, to their own board. Kellner, a former Continental Airlines Chairman/CEO, left the now-defunct (merged with United) company in late 2009 and joined Boeing’s board of directors in 2011. He was elevated to chairman in late 2019, and his tenure has been marked with failures both financial and reputational. As anyone who follows air travel news knows, Boeing has likely endured the worst year of any U.S.-based corporation due to numerous troubling safety incidents, with the penultimate occurrence in January, when a door plug blew off an Alaska Airlines flight at 16,000 feet, imperiling passengers and crew. In addition to that high-profile episode, Kellner has presided over a cascade of devastating headlines related to Boeing’s quality and safety record. It’s gotten so bad that now every airliner performance glitch, regardless of the responsible party, is now headlined as a “Boeing plane” incident. Yet, inexplicably, ExxonMobil wants Kellner to serve another year on its board, which he joined in 2023. As a result, National Legal and Policy Center, a shareholder in both Boeing and Exxon, is calling for fellow investors to vote against Kellner for the energy company’s annual meeting on May 29. “It’s incredible to have to even ask, but after the last five years-plus that Boeing has had, Larry Kellner is properly leaving its board – so why do Exxon directors think he deserves a seat with them?” said Paul Chesser, director of NLPC’s Corporate Integrity Project. “Is this about strong governance to protect shareholder assets, or just keeping the social club together until something catastrophic happens – like what just happened at Boeing?” Earlier this week NLPC filed a proxy memo with the Securities and Exchange Commission which further explained why it believes Kellner has no business serving on a corporate board at this time, much less the largest U.S.-based energy company in the world. Kellner, along with exiting CEO Dave Calhoun, were supposed to be the leadership pair to improve Boeing’s performance after the firing of previous CEO Dennis Muilenburg. Instead the company’s performance only worsened, with its stock price being almost halved since Kellner took over as Chairman. NLPC also released a short video on Thursday that highlights Boeing’s mishaps under Kellner’s leadership, and questions why ExxonMobil would want to keep him on its governance team. The oil giant’s board, in exhibiting the ultimate in tone-deafness, even plans to keep Kellner on the company’s safety committee! “There’s a reason Larry Kellner is leaving Boeing’s board, and that reason is failure,” Chesser added. “Exxon is not in business so it can provide soft landings for mediocre executives. Nonetheless his colleagues put him on the proxy ballot for the board, so our fellow shareholders should do the right thing and vote against him.” ### For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org. Please visit http://www.nlpc.org. Founded in 1991, the National Legal and Policy Center promotes ethics in public life through research, investigation, education and legal action. Contact Details National Legal and Policy Center Dan Rene +1 202-329-8357 drene@nlpc.org Company Website http://www.nlpc.org

May 09, 2024 09:49 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Seeing Machines advances with strategic expansions and strong quarterly performance

Seeing Machines Ltd

Seeing Machines Ltd CEO Paul McGlone joins Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with an update on the company's progress and key developments. McGlone highlighted the expansion with an existing US customer and a tier 1 supplier, driven by increasing regulatory requirements in Europe, which signifies a significant development for the company. This expansion includes new technology integrations and a stronger foothold in the European market, alongside additional volume in China. Further, McGlone discussed the company's recent performance following their third-quarter results, noting a return to normal production levels and the launch of a new major vehicle program. This contributed to Seeing Machines producing over 300,000 vehicles in the quarter, supporting a year-on-year growth rate of 100%. This performance reassured investors of the company's growth trajectory. Additionally, McGlone outlined the launch of their biggest ever production award with a significant European OEM, which includes a comprehensive interior sensing capability for driver and occupant monitoring. This project is seen as a major technical achievement and is expected to notably increase growth rates. McGlone also touched on the aftermarket segment, particularly their Guardian Connections system for trucks and buses, which showed consistent growth and is set to expand further with the rollout of their third-generation product. Lastly, McGlone reaffirmed the company's financial targets for 2024 and their aim to achieve cash break-even in 2025, indicating strong momentum across various business areas, including automotive, aviation, and fleet services. Contact Details Proactive UK Ltd +44 20 7989 0813 uk@proactiveinvestors.com

May 09, 2024 07:06 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Introducing the New Ryvid Outset Electric Motorcycle and Extremely Accessible New Pricing

Ryvid, Inc

The Ryvid Outset adds an exciting second model to the lineup of the California-based company, which was founded in 2022 and began deliveries of the first Ryvid Anthem Electric Motorcycles in September 2023. The scrambler-style Outset is a striking option for customers wanting an electric motorcycle for commuting and multi-road adventure. What’s more, because Outset shares a number of key components with Anthem, it opens a unique opportunity for riders to convert one into the other to suit their needs. Offering greater suspension travel to deal with challenging surfaces as well as a longer, narrower motocross-style seat, and fitted with multi-role Dunlop Mutant tires, the Ryvid Outset is perfect for urban exploration and beyond. It shares the Anthem’s rigid folded steel backbone frame, instrument display, removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger, 72V air-cooled brushless DC motor, controller, and sealed belt drive. The Outset’s vital statistics include up to 70 miles range* and 75mph+ top speed. As such, riders need a motorcycle license to ride the Outset and Anthem, which offer motorcycle brake positions and a twist throttle. Outset has a 33” seat height but its compliant suspension and narrow cushion means it will comfortably accommodate a range of riders. Further differentiating it from Anthem, Outset gets its own headlight design, mirrors, wider handlebar, seat unit and suspension. The more upright riding position also necessitated repositioning the footpegs forward and adding a longer kickstand. By removing the Anthem’s adjustable seat mechanism and employing less body panels among a raft of changes, Ryvid has been able to offer Outset at $500 less than its flagship Anthem. Weighing just 315 lb, the Outset shares the Anthem’s featherweight architecture and low center of gravity. With its major components positioned at axle level, both the Outset and Anthem exhibit extraordinary handling characteristics, making it extremely easy to change direction at high speed or maneuver at slow speed. Another benefit of electric power is the Ryvid Reverse Gear. At the push of a button when stopped, the rider is able to move the motorcycle backwards at walking speed to extricate it from perhaps a tight parking position or awkward slope. ACCESSIBLE PRICING Originally priced at $8,995, Ryvid has been able to significantly reduce the Anthem price to $6,495 and introduce the Outset at $5,995 thanks to a number of factors. “From Ryvid's inception, our primary goal has been to provide the most accessible light electric vehicle to a broad audience. In order to disrupt the light electric mobility sector, it was essential to not only innovate our products but also our value proposition,” said Dong Tran, Ryvid Founder and CEO. “Creating a new generation of two-wheel electric adopters meant competing effectively on the specification-versus-price ratio against both existing EVs and traditional ICE vehicles. Achieving competitive pricing would be challenging until we could execute several key post-launch initiatives,” he continued. Among those initiatives, a new assembly facility in San Bernardino, CA has been key to the aggressive pricing structure. Coming online in February, its introduction allowed Tran’s targets to be met: 1. Increase production volume to negotiate lower parts costs 2. Expand the product range using the same platform, simplifying both the build process and product configurations 3. Optimize the supply chain to benefit cost and logistics “Our team has focused on reaching these objectives over the past two years,” Tran continued. “Their relentless efforts have reached a milestone with the Ryvid Anthem. Available now, it will sell for $6,495, setting a new benchmark as one of the world's most affordable electric motorcycles, based on specification. We're also excited to announce the launch of orders for our new Outset model priced at $5,995, with shipping scheduled to begin in Summer 2024.” As an additional incentive for the first customers, Outset will be offered with a free Power Controller Upgrade by ASI while supplies last. The same ASI controller will be available as an $800 upgrade for all Anthem and Outset owners, and can be retro-fitted to existing Anthem motorcycles. MODULAR DESIGN In yet another industry first from Ryvid, existing owners of the Anthem Electric will be able to purchase the parts necessary to convert their motorcycle into the new Outset model at a fraction of the price of the complete machine thanks to its shared components. The conversion parts will be available from the Interactive 3D Parts Catalog at ryvid.com, which currently lists every part of the Anthem for service or repair, and will soon be joined by Outset-specific parts. A list of parts and instruction video will be provided to guide Anthem owners when converting their Outset, and vice versa. With the option to customize the Ryvid motorcycle into a totally different machine, creating a distinct new character, owners will be able to build the bike that suits their needs or even their mood. AVAILABLE TO ORDER Riders can visit ryvid.com to order the new $5,995 Outset for Summer delivery in either Sector Red or Vapor Grey, or the $6,495 Anthem for immediate delivery in a choice of six colors. Riders must have a motorcycle license in order to ride both the Anthem and Outset. *Range is currently estimated until the Ryvid Outset is subjected to the Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule to establish recognized city and highway range figures, which will be shared shortly at ryvid.com. Battery range may vary and can depend on conditions such as rider weight, speed, temperature, wind, tire pressure, terrain, incline, etc. RYVID OUTSET SPECS Power System: 72V air-cooled, brushless, DC motor, removable 4.3kWh Lithium-Ion battery with integrated 3.3kW charger Power: rated at 10hp (7.5kW), peak power 20hp (14kW) Peak Torque: 53 ft-lb Drivetrain: clutchless Direct Drive transmission, 4.7:1 ratio Continental Synchroforce Carbon drive belt, selectable reverse gear limited to 5mph Charging time: 110V – 0-80% in 2.3hr, 0-100% in 3.25hr. 220V or Level 2 adapter – 0-80% in 1.3hr, 0-100% in 1.85hr Range: up to 70 miles (Eco Mode) Speed: 75+ mph Ride modes: Sport Mode, Eco Mode with regenerative braking, cruise control, Reverse Drive limited to 5mph Frame: lightweight, folded stainless steel, 12 lb Tires: Dunlop Mutant Brakes: hydraulic four-piston front caliper with 320mm rotor, twin-piston rear with 240mm rotor Suspension: inverted front fork, preload and damping adjustable, 6.5” travel. Rear monoshock, preload and damping adjustable, 1.8” travel Weight: 315 lb with battery Carrying capacity: 330 lb Wheelbase: 52” Rake & Trail: 26 degrees, 6” Seat height: 33” Rider display: 4.9” TFT display Price: $5,995 Colorways: Sector Red or Vapor Grey Warranty: limited lifetime on frame, 2 years limited on motorcycle parts & battery EDITOR’S NOTE High-resolution images of the Ryvid Outset and Anthem are available at ryvid.com/pages/media-room A Ryvid Outset video is available to view and share here: youtu.be/dJk8pev-Qic?si=xQhIVzmJjEtpKlx- Editorial staff wishing to ride the Ryvid Anthem or Outset should please use the Media Contact below. ABOUT RYVID Ryvid is a cutting-edge manufacturing corporation in the high-growth field of Electric Light Vehicles. Founded by enthusiasts, engineered by innovators, and designed by aerospace industry gearheads, the Ryvid mission is to create more sustainable and enjoyable personal mobility. The company name was derived by merging Rhythm and Avid; elements of motion and emotion that define the experience of using our products. Ryvid produces revolutionary, lightweight, affordable electric motorcycles with a significantly lower carbon footprint than its competitors. With the same innovation applied to all models, Ryvid is poised to revolutionize urban commuting. Ryvid products are designed and assembled in California. For further information, please visit ryvid.com The Ryvid Anthem is available for delivery now at $6,495. The new Ryvid Outset is available at $5,995, with deliveries beginning Summer 2024 Contact Details Greg Emmerson greg@theidagency.com Company Website https://ryvid.com/

May 07, 2024 06:10 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Tembo e-LV $838 Million SPAC IPO Set To Unlock Shareholder Value For VivoPower (NASDAQ:VVPR)

VVPR

As the world’s shift to EVs gathers more pace and the market rebounds from short term demand weakness, one company that has attracted significant investor interest is VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR). The sustainable energy solutions company, which provides conversion kits containing all the parts needed to convert a vehicle from an internal combustion engine to electric, has seen its share price rise based on a number of tailwinds. For starters, VivoPower subsidiary Tembo E-LV revealed that it would be going public by merging with Cactus Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ:CCTS), a SPAC, in a deal with a pre-money indicative valuation of $838 million. CCTS will issue 83.8 million shares in exchange for Tembo shares at $10 per CCTS share. In addition to that, a special dividend of a total of 16.76 million Tembo shares, or about 20% of the 83.8 million shares, will be distributed to VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) shareholders, who will receive five Tembo Group shares for each VivoPower share held. According to the most recent quarterly filing, CCTS has $25 million in cash on its balance sheet. If everything plays out as expected, then this deal would unlock massive value for VivoPower shareholders. That is because VivoPwer bought Tembo for about $7.1 million in cash back in 2021, and this deal values it at more than 120x. This deal has not only illustrated the leadership’s commitment to increasing shareholder value but also the market’s willingness to pay a premium for EV companies solving the EV problem in a different way. Although VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) stock has already rallied significantly, it is clear that there is still more room for upside. Just to recap, here’s a simple breakdown of the deal and how it would translate to a higher share price for VivoPower shareholders. VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) shareholders get 5 Tembo shares worth $10 for every share held. Assuming a conservative scenario where the IPO raises only 10% of $838 million, that would translate to at least $83.8 million in market cap for vivo power. VivoPower has about 3.5 million shares outstanding, which would translate into a share price of roughly $23. That means that VivoPower could make investors triple-digit returns once this deal closes, and that is without taking into account the dividend shares. At $1 per dividend share, that would translate to an additional $5 per share held for VivoPower shareholders. Ultimately, even if the Tembo share price upon IPO is only $1, that would imply that VVPR shares are worth $28, including the value of dividend shares. To further illustrate the upside potential in the VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) stock, consider this: The company recently received a $10 million direct investment from an Emirati based family office associated with the ruling family of Dubai, at a $120 million pre-money valuation. Based on this fact, the value per share of VVPR could be $40 per share. Share buyback and restructuring Another important tailwind that has contributed to sending VivoPower's share price higher is the company's recent announcement that its board had authorized a capital management strategy including a stock buyback program that would allow the company to purchase up to $5 million of its outstanding shares. These buybacks would be funded using the company’s proceeds from the sale of businesses and asset divestitures, including spin-offs like the Caret business unit’s portfolio. The Caret business unit’s portfolio represents up to ten solar projects totaling 586 MW-DC at varying stages of development. Last week, VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) also announced that it entered into a definitive asset sale agreement for the sale of one of its non-core business units, Kenshaw Electrical, to ARA Group Limited, a leading diversified industrial services group based in Australia, for a total of A$5 million. Exploding addressable markets VVPR is well positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for EVs in some of the fastest growing markets right now like southeast Asia, the middle east and Africa. According to Mordor Intelligence, the Middle East and Africa EV markets were valued at about $3.33 billion in 2024 and are expected to be worth $9.42 billion by 2029, representing a CAGR of 23.20%. Tembo’s conversion kits have attracted substantial traction among consumers, as illustrated by the company securing a commitment of 5000+ kits and an order pipeline of 10,000+ in 2023. Those included an MOU in Jordan for 1,000 kits, opening a path to the Middle East, which is the largest Landcruiser market, and a definitive agreement in Kenya for 4,000 kits, providing entry into second-hand vehicle segments. Furthermore, Tembo signed a definitive joint venture agreement with Francisco Motor Corporation to develop and supply electric utility vehicle electrification kits for a new generation of electric jeepneys (e-jeepneys) in the Philippines. This is another significant growth opportunity, considering that the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) estimates that the cumulative sales of e-vehicles in the country will reach 6.6 million units by 2030, driven by favorable government policies. In fact, e-vehicles are now exempt from excise tax, and a recent Executive Order scrapped the tariff rates of completely built-up imported e-vehicles for five years to help them become more cost-competitive in the country. Takeaway Going forward, it's clear that VivoPower International PLC (NASDAQ:VVPR) has bright prospects ahead, as illustrated by the fact that according to a release May 6, executive chairman and CEO Kevin Chin again increased his individual shareholding in the company by adding an additional 100,000 shares (about 2.7% of the outstanding shares) to increase his shareholding to 13.5%, signaling his confidence in the company. For more information, please visit https://vivopower.com/ Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained by VivoPower International to assist in the production and distribution of content related VVPR. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details RazorPitch Inc Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorPitch.com

May 07, 2024 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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5thScape to list its first game “MMA Cage Conquest” on Meta Store: Ultimate Virtual MMA Experience

Spark Metro PR

Mixed Martial Arts fans and enthusiasts, your virtual fighting dreams have arrived! 5th Scape delivers a transformative experience with "MMA Cage Conquest," stepping far beyond traditional fighting games into true sensory immersion. Step into the iconic MMA cage, feel the roar of the crowd and become the champion you always envisioned. The 5thScape Project is an ambitious venture that aims to create a comprehensive Virtual Reality ecosystem. In this VR ecosystem many developers, gamers and experts from various industries can collaborate. This is a VR gaming studio startup in which they focus on developing games, movies, animations etc. Apart from this, they are also planning to launch a special VR headset and a VR Chair which is an ergonomically perfect chair for long gaming sessions. Now, coming back to the game, - "MMA Cage Conquest" redefines virtual combat. Its skill-based system demands true martial arts strategy along with honed reflexes. Learn and master strikes like a real-life wrestling professional. It includes (not limited to) powerful grappling throws and the intricacies of ground control to secure your victories. Feel the impact of every blow, the thrill of a perfectly executed submission, and the tension of a match fought on the razor's edge. Training lies at the heart of "MMA Cage Conquest." This journey transcends button-mashing and enters the realm of personal development. Start as an eager underdog, mastering the fundamentals through rigorous simulations. Refine your striking, defense, and ground game, tracking your progression and building unshakeable confidence. With each session, you don't just play the game – you live the fight. MMA Cage Conquest is all set to make gaming experiences more vigorous and a powerhouse for the senses. Feel the rush in your bones as you climb the leaderboards, and establish yourself as the ultimate MMA cage conqueror. Ready to unleash your inner champion? " MMA Cage Conquest " will be available on the Meta platform. Submitted for listing on May 2, 2024, the developers await approval from Meta. Visit 5thscape.com for trailers, release updates, and the latest news on your journey to become the undisputed MMA Cage Conqueror. Contact Details 5th Scape 5thScape Team +1 302-597-6768 Team@5thscape.com Company Website https://5thscape.com

May 03, 2024 06:51 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Flash Wins California Energy Commission $5.8M Grant for EV Charger ‘Innovation Lab’ in Oakland

Flash Parking

The California Energy Commission (CEC) and Flash, a pioneer in parking + charging solutions, today announced Flash secured a $5.8 million grant from CEC for a large-scale electric vehicle (EV) charger demonstration project in Oakland, California. The first-of-its-kind project will deploy at least 446 low-cost Level 2 EV chargers over a two-year period in convenient, high-density, high-visibility installations in a 1.5-mile area around downtown Oakland. With $24 million in funding from California’s Clean Transportation Program, the CEC grant to Flash and other awardees aims to demonstrate replicable and scalable business and technology models to deploy Level 2 charging infrastructure and improve public awareness of and confidence in Level 2 charging access. The project will also include installation of two Battery Energy Storage Systems that will help safeguard EV charger affordability during periods of peak energy demand. “Bay Area residents’ early commitment to the EV transition uniquely positions this community to serve as an ‘Innovation Lab’ for electrification projects in California and nationwide,” said Matt McCaffree, Vice President of Utility Market Development for Flash. “This collaboration with CEC will not only show what’s possible in high-density smart cities like Oakland but also keep the charging gap for early adopters from becoming a confidence gap for the next wave.” Bay Area EV adoption continues to outpace the national average by a factor of three. By installing reliable, affordable, and convenient public chargers, Flash and the CEC aim to close the charging gap and encourage further EV adoption—particularly among downtown residents, for whom dependable public charging is a prerequisite for ownership in lieu of at-home chargers. The success of the project would establish quality public charging as a standard among the practical, convenient, and environmentally-friendly “smart cities” of the future. “For residents living in downtown areas where at-home charging isn't an option, reliable and convenient public charging is key for continued EV adoption,” said CEC’s Lead Commissioner for Transportation Patty Monahan. “The CEC is looking forward to Flash's deployment of hundreds of Level 2 chargers throughout downtown Oakland to be a model of successful public charging.” The project will also generate invaluable data regarding battery capacities, operating costs, replicable price points, and emergency procedures, as well as insights toward stimulating demand and increasing return on investment. This information can then be used to expand and improve upon the Oakland deployment and inform electrification efforts throughout California and beyond. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations — connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress from driving. The solution has arrived. Visit www.flashparking.com to learn more. Contact Details Flash Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

May 02, 2024 08:30 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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NAFA's 2024 Institute & Expo: Insights, Innovations and Industry Highlights

NAFA Fleet Management Association

NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA) recently concluded its 2024 Institute and Expo (I&E), April 22-24, in San Antonio, TX where 2100+ fleet and mobility professionals from around the globe convened to network, learn and explore the latest products and services from industry suppliers. I&E welcomed attendees from 46 states, 6 Canadian provinces and 16 countries, representing all sectors of the fleet industry including corporate, government, law enforcement, education, utility, and more. During the opening session on Monday, NAFA Board President Mikel Camnetar, CAFM, kicked off the event with an update on the association’s initiatives. The session also featured fleet professionals who achieved their Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) designation. "NAFA I&E is truly special, especially amid the dynamic growth and transformation within our industry," shared Camnetar. "Leaving I&E, we're filled with renewed curiosity, a deepened appreciation for our field and a stronger sense of community with our industry peers." Additional I&E highlights included: Keynote addresses, led by esteemed author and leadership consultant Richard Hadden, and safety expert and leader Brian Fielkow. Hadden’s keynote, “Recruiting and Retention in the New World of Work” dove into the profound changes in the world of work, offering insights and strategies for attracting, retaining and engaging a dynamic workforce in 2024 and beyond. “The Roadmap to Fleet Safety” keynote led by Fielkow, shared invaluable insights into cultivating a safety-driven environment within organizations. General Sessions packed with insights from leading OEM professionals and impactful Industry Update Keynote by Ford Pro CEO Ted Cannis. Through his Keynote, ”Ford Pro – Our Learnings: Grow Productivity, Reduce Risk,” Cannis walked attendees through the future of fleet management, covering everything from electric vehicles to operational strategies. Attendees then heard from an array of distinguished industry experts during an engaging OEM Panel Discussion. Leaders from Toyota, Stellantis, GM Envolve and Ford Pro discussed the automotive industry and its next phase of evolution that will impact every driver, in every fleet and on every road. More than 40 education sessions took place, many standing room only. The I&E education session tracks covered emerging technologies, law enforcement, operations management, strategy, sustainability, safety, DEIA, legislative advocacy and technicians. From EV integration to regulatory compliance and beyond, the I&E education tracks addressed both the diverse needs of fleet professionals and the pressing challenges shaping the industry today. NAFA also offered a specialty Technician Training Program for technicians and service professionals, filled with educational sessions and networking opportunities. The Expo featured 230+ exhibitors showcasing the latest fleet products and services. During the Innovations Showcase, attendees were invited to an interactive innovation zone on the Expo floor, where exhibiting companies displayed their exciting new products and product updates. Samsara won the People’s Choice Award for their AI-Powered Safety Solutions – a single platform for businesses’ operations data including video-based safety, vehicle telematics, apps and workflows, smart equipment and site visibility. New this year, attendees had the opportunity to interact with the latest models, electric and alternative fuel vehicles, and cutting-edge technologies behind the wheel during an immersive Ride & Drive Event, powered by Bobit. Participating automotive companies included BMW, Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, PoleStar, Rivian, Stellantis, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. The 100 Best Fleets in the Americas were crowned. The 2024 winners for each of the following categories include: Best Public Fleet: Dakota County Fleet Management, MN Best Commercial Fleet: Essential Utilities Fleet Professional of the Year Award: Kenny Stimson, Carvana Fleet Technician of the Year Award: Curtis Mullins, City of Round Rock, TX Nearly 50 participants were immersed in CAFM Live, a peer-to-peer educational event that accelerates Certified Automotive Fleet Manager (CAFM) candidates’ preparation for examination and certification. NAFA also brought back Media Day, providing over a dozen companies the opportunity to present their breaking news and announcements to reporters in back-to-back press conferences. NAFA extends its gratitude for the generous support of its 2024 I&E sponsors: Bestpass Inc., FASTER Asset Solutions, Geotab, Holman, Legend Fleet Solutions, Merchants Fleet, Mitsubishi Motors, Motive, Samsara, Shell Fleet Solutions, RAM Professional, U.S. Bank Voyager, uShip Logistics, WEX, and Wheels, Inc. NAFA also extends its appreciation to its media partners for their continued support: Autosphere.ca, Automotive Fleet, Fleet Management Weekly, Modern WorkTruck Solutions, Media Coverage, and Utility Fleet Professional. Next year’s I&E will take place in Long Beach, CA on April 28-30, 2025 at the Long Beach Convention Center. To learn more about NAFA, visit: https://www.nafa.org/ NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

May 01, 2024 11:48 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Giyani Metals advances with key financing for Botswana manganese project targeting the EV industry

Giyani Metals Corp

Giyani Metals Corp (TSX-V:EMM, OTC:CATPF) CEO Danny Keating joined Proactive's Stephen Gunnion with news that the company is pushing quickly ahead with its flagship high-purity K. Hill manganese project in Botswana and the construction of a demonstration plant in Johannesburg. The company has drawn down the first $5.7 million of a $16 million convertible loan facility secured from South Africa's Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). In total, Keating said the company has completed a $26 million funding round, minimising shareholder dilution by combining equity and debt financing strategies. This funding supports the construction of the demonstration plant, which will play a crucial role in establishing credibility with potential customers through the production and consistent delivery of high-quality manganese. Keating said the company, focusing on the development of high-purity manganese for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, addresses a growing demand in a market predominantly dominated by Chinese production. He emphasized the strategic importance of diversifying the supply chain to include non-Chinese sources, highlighting Giyani Metals' efforts to establish Western production capabilities. Keating also touched on the forthcoming stages of the project, including a definitive feasibility study slated for 2025, which will precede final investment decisions. The strategic developments at Giyani Metals are poised to position the company favourably within the evolving EV battery component market, capitalising on legislative shifts such as the US Inflation Reduction Act, which mandates increased use of non-Chinese materials in EV batteries. Contact Details Proactive North America Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 01, 2024 10:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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