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LOBO Technologies Wants To Have It All With Line Of Electric Mobility Products, And Investors Seem To Be Taking Notice Of Its Expansion Plans

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga From bikes to scooters, the electric vehicle market is taking off, driven by greater awareness around the benefits of EVs, demand for better mobility solutions in dense urban settings and supportive government policies. As a result, the global e-bike, e-trike and e-scooter industry is forecast to reach $77.6 billion by the end of 2028, growing at a CAGR of 11.6%. LOBO Has It All For players in this market, going after just one area of the EV industry can be a big opportunity, but operating in it all including e-bicycles, e-mopeds, e-tricycles and electric off-highway four-wheeled shuttles, plus offering automobile information and entertainment software on top of that, can be game-changing. That is exactly what LOBO Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: LOBO) is doing. The Chinese EV manufacturer has a multi-pronged approach to dominate the market with its wide range of electric mobility vehicles. LOBO, which already has an established track record, is aiming to be an OEM and ODM leader in the intelligent urban e-bike, e-trike and off-highway four-wheeled electric vehicles (EVs) market over the next decade by making EVs tailored for various demographics, including mobility solutions for the elderly and disabled. The company follows an asset-light business model through which it leverages its just-in-time production model to align supply and demand trends and minimize excess inventory. To keep margins high, the company outsources the production of some models that are more costly to make in-house. Innovating In The Marketplace LOBO is an innovator in the industry, leveraging advanced technologies in connectivity, multimedia, interactive systems and artificial intelligence to enhance users’ experiences and stand out from its rivals. Take its recently launched solar-powered electric tricycle for one example. It is equipped with high-quality solar panels designed to capture and convert the sun's energy, providing continuous power to the tricycle's electric motor. This environmentally friendly tricycle helps reduce carbon emissions, is cost-effective and is easy to maintain, reports LOBO. Then there is its “King of the Load” e-trike, which is a special-purpose vehicle designed for commuters and delivery services. These e-trikes are not just vehicles but also powerful tools that empower users by providing a means of livelihood, which LOBO says is especially critical in developing countries for increasing income and improving quality of life. Overseas Expansion LOBO is also focusing on growing its footprint, going after emerging markets seeing increased interest in EVs. That includes ASEAN countries, Eastern Europe – including Serbia, Bulgaria and Ukraine – and Latin America. That cushions the blow from any slowdown in China. All of those markets are growing for LOBO, particularly in Latin America. Earlier this month, LOBO announced it received its largest single order for e-bikes this year, including electric tricycles, electric bicycles and its newly introduced solar-powered electric tricycles, from Ecuadorian resellers. “Latin America is one of several global markets we’ve targeted for rapid expansion, and this latest order from Ecuador is a testament to our growing footprint and the strong demand for our products in this region,” said CEO Huajian Xu. So far in 2024, LOBO says it has consistently received orders for e-bikes and e-trikes from Latin American dealers in Brazil, Chile, Suriname and other countries. This week LOBO hosted one of Brazil’s top ten electric mobility dealers, which it had been doing business with for about a year. Following the visit, which included a site inspection, the dealer, which generates more than $8 million a year in sales of short-distance electric vehicles, has determined it will consolidate its production and procurement with LOBO. Up until now, it had used several Chinese manufactures. “The Brazilian team was particularly impressed with our new model electric tricycles and small four-wheeled elderly mobility vehicle samples. They closely examined the detailed design and craftsmanship, praising our R&D and manufacturing capabilities. The on-the-spot discussions about specific vehicle orders indicate their strong intent to form a close cooperative partnership,” said Xu. LOBO has been steadily gaining share over the past few years in Latin America and elsewhere, which it credits to its ongoing investment in R&D. That enables LOBO to develop products that resonate with the masses and provide a greener alternative. That is particularly important in the new markets LOBO is going after. Not only are its EVs cheaper than gas-powered vehicles, they can have a huge positive impact on global warming. They don’t add to emissions and can replace cars in many instances. In the U.S., three-fourths of all trips are ten miles or less, highlighting the utility of EVs. Manufacturing Might Beyond expanding its footprint, LOBO is beefing up its manufacturing so that it can quickly and affordably churn out innovative e-bikes, e-scooters and other green mobility vehicles. Case in point: proceeds from its $5.5 million IPO in March went to expand capacity in a new factory in Wuxi by 20%. That is the equivalent of $27 million in product, LOBO reports. Investors seem to have been taking notice of all these positive developments, with shares of LOBO recently jumping 16.4% over its order from Ecuador and overall growth. At last check, LOBO has 150 distributors in China and 60 spread out around the result of the world. LOBO plans to expand into two to five more countries this year and strike more partnerships. Given its expansion plans, LOBO’s recent run may not be over yet. Featured photo by Maixent Viau on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 26, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Select Sector SPDR ETFs: A Focused Approach for Sector-Specific Portfolio Management

Select Sector SPDR

In the ever-changing landscape of the financial markets, Select Sector SPDR ETFs present a method for investors looking to engage in sector-specific investments. By breaking down the S&P 500 into distinct sectors, these ETFs provide a pathway for both individual and institutional investors to craft more targeted and strategic investment portfolios. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs encompass a range of sectors, each represented by a dedicated ETF. This structure allows investors to focus their investments on specific areas of the economy, depending on their investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market outlook. Overview of Select Sector SPDR ETFs: Communication Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLC): Focuses on telecommunications and media companies. Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY): Targets companies focused on non-essential goods and services such as luxury items, travel, and leisure. Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP): Concentrates on essential consumer goods and services like food, clothing, and personal products. Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): Dedicated to the energy sector, focused on oil and natural gas. Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF): Encompasses banking, investment, and insurance industries. Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV): Focuses on pharmaceuticals, healthcare equipment, and services. Industrials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI): Includes manufacturing, construction, and logistics firms. Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB): Covers the chemicals, construction materials, and packaging industries. Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLRE): Targets commercial real estate services and REITs. Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK): Concentrates on the information technology, semiconductor, and electronics sectors. Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU): Dedicated to electric and gas utility companies. By offering a straightforward and transparent approach to investing in specific sectors, Select Sector SPDR ETFs enable investors to adapt their investment strategies in response to changing market conditions. The Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer a focused approach to investment, allowing for detailed sector analysis and strategic portfolio management. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, these ETFs provide a valuable tool for investors looking to refine their investment strategies through sector-specific allocations. DISCLAIMER: This is a work of research and should not be taken as investment or financial advice. Therefore, Select Sector SPDRs or the publisher is not liable for any decision made based on the publication. About the Company: Select Sector SPDR ETFs offer flexibility and customization opportunities. Many investors have similar outlooks, but no two are exactly alike. Select Sector SPDR ETFs let investors select the sectors that best meet their investment goals. DISCLOSURES The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index of 500 common stocks that is generally considered representative of the U.S. stock market. The index is heavily weighted toward stocks with large market capitalizations and represents approximately two-thirds of the total market value of all domestic common stocks. The S&P 500 Index figures do not reflect any fees, expenses or taxes. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. One may not invest directly in an index. Transparent ETFs provide daily disclosure of portfolio holdings and weightings All ETFs are subject to risk, including loss of principal. Sector ETF products are also subject to sector risk and nondiversification risk, which generally will result in greater price fluctuations than the overall market. Diversification does not eliminate risk. An investor should consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 1-866-SECTOR-ETF (732-8673) or visit www.sectorspdrs.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. Media Contact: Company: Select Sector SPDRs Contact: Dan Dolan* Address: 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203 Country: United States Email: dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Website: https://www.sectorspdrs.com/ *Dan Dolan is a Registered Representative of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the distributor for the Select Sector SPDR Trust. SEL007597 EXP 8/31/24 Contact Details Dan Dolan +1 203-935-8103 dan.dolan@sectorspdrs.com Company Website https://www.sectorspdrs.com/

June 24, 2024 05:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

FuelRod Launches Free Battery Swaps at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport

Fuel Rod

FuelRod, a leading provider of portable power solutions, today announced an exclusive promotion sponsored by Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). This groundbreaking initiative, which runs through November 30, allows travelers at AUS to swap their depleted FuelRod chargers for fresh ones at no cost. This marks the first promotion of its kind at any airport, highlighting FuelRod’s commitment to ensuring travelers have reliable access to power and a stress-free travel experience. Travelers passing through AUS can now enjoy the convenience of swapping their depleted FuelRods for fully charged ones up to 10 times per month, free of charge. This hassle-free process can be completed at any of the several FuelRod kiosks throughout the airport by simply selecting the “swap” button, entering a phone number, and exchanging the used rod for a fresh one. Phone numbers are collected to track the 10-use limit. For travelers who prefer not to provide a phone number, the standard swap fee of $1 applies. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is the first airport to offer such a promotion, setting a new standard for passenger comfort and convenience. This collaboration with FuelRod reflects a shared commitment to keeping travelers charged and connected by ensuring a reliable portable power source for their devices. FuelRod aims for this promotion to inspire similar initiatives nationwide, bringing sustainable charging solutions to travelers across the country. “We are extremely proud of our partnership with Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and their support of our vision for easily accessible, eco-friendly charging for travelers on the go,” said Joe Yeagley, FuelRod Co-founder. “AUS, as the first airport to sponsor the FuelRod “Swap” service, exemplifies Texas hospitality and demonstrates their commitment to providing an elevated experience for their passengers.” About FuelRod FuelRod is a California-based company specializing in portable power solutions. The developer of the FuelRod kit, the first reusable, portable charging system, FuelRod allows you to charge your mobile device on the go and then recharge or swap it for a fresh one. With a growing network of kiosks nationwide, FuelRod ensures your devices stay powered virtually wherever you go. Learn more at fuel-rod.com. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.fuel-rod.com/

June 20, 2024 09:00 AM Central Daylight Time

Classiq Collaborates with BMW Group and NVIDIA to Drive Quantum Computing Applicability in Electrical Systems Engineering

Classiq Technologies

Classiq today announced a collaboration with NVIDIA and the BMW Group to optimize mechatronic systems, marking a significant advance in the sophistication of quantum computing implementation in the automotive sector. The initiative is focused on solving a complex computational challenge to find the optimal architecture of electrical and mechanical systems. This problem involves defining the optimal combination of components, from electrical engines and batteries to coolers, and how these should be connected. The goal of this project is to enhance efficiency and reduce energy waste, which can result – among other things – in the increased efficiency of electric vehicles. Classiq’s sophisticated approach demonstrated how cutting-edge quantum algorithms may be used to address the problem, including the Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA) and the Harrow-Hassidim-Lloyd (HHL) algorithm. The latter of these approaches leverages amplitude and digital encoding to efficiently solve and convert complex linear equations, utilizing a novel Quantum Analog to Digital Conversion (QADC) process. The project resulted in the BMW Group’s quantum experts creating a highly sophisticated quantum program, with many quantum sub-routines, among the most complex quantum programs implemented to date. The implementation was enabled by the advanced modeling and compilation capabilities of the Classiq platform. The large and complex quantum circuit implementation was simulated using NVIDIA GPUs and the powerful NVIDIA CUDA-Q platform. “Our collaboration with Classiq and NVIDIA has enabled an innovative quantum implementation that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the application to automotive technologies,” said Lukas Mueller, Lead Future Compute at BMW Group IT. “NVIDIA’s quantum stack has been instrumental in simulating this complex algorithm, facilitating its detailed testing and refinement.” “This project exemplifies the power of collaboration in the quantum computing sphere. By bringing together the best of quantum hardware, software and automotive domain expertise, we have achieved groundbreaking advancements in a remarkably short time,” said Nir Minerbi, CEO of Classiq Technologies. “Quantum computing, which has the potential to transform society, will require accelerated computing with extreme performance for users to take full advantage of its value,” said Tim Costa, director of HPC and quantum computing at NVIDIA. “NVIDIA’s collaboration with innovators such as the BMW Group and Classiq is pushing the boundaries of quantum simulation and helping to usher in an era of useful quantum computing.” Quantum computing is still a nascent technology, and further effort is required to bring the developed solution to industrial applicability. Classiq and its collaborators continue to develop the interface between automotive technology and quantum computing by expanding the boundaries of quantum design, implementation, and computation. About Classiq Classiq Technologies, the leading quantum software company, provides an all-encompassing platform (IDE, compiler and OS) with a single point of entry into quantum computing, taking you from algorithm design to execution. The high-level descriptive quantum software development environment, tailored to all levels of developer proficiency, automates quantum programming. This ensures that a broad range of talents, including those with backgrounds in AI, ML and linear algebra, can harness quantum computing without requiring deep, specialized knowledge of quantum physics. Classiq democratizes access to quantum computing and equips its users to take full advantage of the quantum computing revolution, including access to a broad range of quantum hardware. Classiq’s core technology, algorithmic quantum circuit compilation, is engineered to power the quantum ecosystem of today and the future. Classiq works closely with quantum cloud providers and advanced computation hardware developers providing software for use with quantum computers, HPC and quantum simulators. Backed by investors such as HPE, HSBC, Samsung, Intesa Sanpaolo and NTT, Classiq’s world-class team of scientists and engineers has distilled decades of quantum expertise into its groundbreaking quantum engine. Follow Classiq on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter) or YouTube, and visit the Slack community and https://www.classiq.io to learn more. Contact Details Rainier Communications Michelle McMahon mmcmahon@rainierco.com Company Website http://www.classiq.io/

June 20, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Ryvid partners with Sosa Metalworks for a truly custom Electric Motorcycle

Ryvid, Inc

Ryvid – the California-based Electric Motorcycle manufacturer – partnered with custom bike builder Cristian Sosa at Sosa Metalworks in Las Vegas to create a stunning interpretation of the Ryvid Anthem Electric Motorcycle. Better known for his traditional metal fabrication, the Ryvid Anthem was Cristian’s first attempt at a battery-powered motorcycle and the results are stunning. And in addition to the striking bodywork, the Ryvid team was delighted to discover Cristian had retained the Anthem’s unique height adjustable seat, which allows a broad range of riders to comfortably fit the Anthem. Cristian established Sosa Metalworks in September 2012 with his brother, Roberto, focusing on custom metal fabrication. Creating one-off metal pieces for custom projects, Cristian has specialized in motorcycles, which led him to become the lead metal fabricator at Count’s Kustoms for Discovery Channel's Counting Cars series. Cristian’s collaboration with Ryvid kicked off at the One Motorcycle Show in 2023 where he encountered the Anthem and company founder Dong Tran. “I had the opportunity to speak to Dong and he explained some of the features. What really stood out to me was the steel frame design,” Cristian recalled. “I'd been interested in building an electric bike and knew I could do something cool around the frame, so the Anthem was a perfect fit.” BUILDING THE SOSA ANTHEM Whenever Cristian approaches a new project, he tries to imagine how a classic machine would look in the future. And this is what attracted him to the Anthem because it already had ultra-modern design. However, Cristian had to take a different approach because where he’d normally design around the motor and transmission, with the Anthem he had to focus on the folded steel frame and removable battery pack. “These elements dictated the use of sharper, straighter lines compared to the curved designs I often use,” Cristian explained. “Stepping outside my comfort zone was what made this challenge so much fun.” Whereas steel is favored for classic motorbikes, Cristian prefers aluminum for modern machines. Not only does it fit the theme better but it’s lighter, helping overall performance. “Aluminum is harder to work than steel because it requires welding on both sides, but it’s softer and easier to shape,” Cristian said. “I also really like how hand-polished aluminum looks; I try to avoid mirror-polishing anything because I feel it loses its soul.” “I did most of the work on the Ryvid project by hand but also incorporated my fast-cut CNC table into the design and build process, which is something I’ve never done before. Once every part was cut, I shaped them by hand on the power hammers,” Cristian continued. “Hammering requires a lot of time but it’s my favorite part of the process because I can get into my zone.” Thanks in part to the technology used, the entire build took about three weeks to complete, including the design process. “ It can be difficult to find a design direction, but once it was decided I then practically built the bike twice; first as a design buck, which allowed the templates to be created, and then replicated it in aluminum,” Cristian said. “Every now and then, I make something that comes out better than I imagined, and this is one of those times. I remember when we were assembling the bike and it caught me by surprise. I couldn’t believe how well it came together and how good it looked. It has a classic feel but the lines makes it seem very aggressive and slightly futuristic, which I wasn’t expecting.” One of the Ryvid Anthem’s standout features is its removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger used to power the 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor. It also has a unique height adjustable seat, which can be positioned to suit the rider at the flick of a switch. Cristian was careful to integrate the technology, keeping the Anthem fully functional. The beautifully crafted Sosa seat unit flows from the central spine and, despite its appearance of solidity, can easily be raised and lowered with the Anthem’s electronic system. Similarly, the side panels can be removed to access the battery’s latch system, allowing it to be lowered and removed for remote charging, if required. RIDING “I’ve always loved motorcycles, which have always represented gas-powered engines to me. In fact, the powerplant often inspired my designs, but you don’t have that with an electric motorcycle. Instead, I learned from riding the Ryvid Anthem that you focus on the actual ride rather than the motor, which is something that’s really grown on me. It becomes a completely different ways of riding. And while I love getting on a bike that you have to kickstart and work for it, there’s something beautiful about jumping on a bike and just twisting the throttle,” Cristian explained. “Some days I feel like driving and some I days I want to walk: two completely different modes that get you to the same place and put you in a completely different mindset. I feel what makes an electric motorcycle attractive is the simplicity and efficiency. There are times when I prefer that. “The Anthem is also very light (313 lb), which really makes it fun to ride. And that was another reason I worked with aluminum to keep the weight as low as possible. “I’ve been riding the bike almost daily since we got back from the One Motorcycle Show and it’s so much fun,” Cristian revealed. LOOKING AHEAD After Cristian Sosa got involved in the Anthem project, Ryvid launched its second model at the 2024 One Motorcycle Show; the Outset. Based on the same frame, battery and motor as the Anthem, Outset is a scrambler-style machine with taller. multi-road tuned suspension, a narrower, longer dirt bike-style seat, wider handlebars, and more. Cristian is already looking forward to his next electric project: “Let’s make something happen with the new Outset!” he laughed. “And I want to thank the Ryvid crew for the ride; it’s been fun.” If somebody wanted to recreate the Sosa Anthem, they can contact Sosa Metalworks directly via sosametalworks.com. “I only build one bike at a time. It’s very rare for me to jump from project to project. I like to focus on one project until it’s completed. I normally work around the client’s budget, which allows me to gauge the amount of time I can spend on it. But I never cut corners. I’ve been doing this for more than 25 years and one of the advantages of my experience is the skills I’ve acquired allow me to do things faster, while the tools and machinery I’ve acquired speed up the process even more. These things allow me to spend more time on the design aspect and craftsmanship,” Cristian concluded. AVAILABLE TO ORDER The Ryvid Anthem Electric and Ryvid Outset Electric are available to order now from ryvid.com. The $6,495 Anthem is available for immediate delivery in a choice of six colors. Deliveries of the new $5,995 Outset will begin in the Summer in either Sector Red or Vapor Grey. Riders must have a motorcycle license in order to ride both the Anthem and Outset. The Anthem and Outset share a rigid steel backbone frame, instrument display, removable 4.3kWh battery with integrated charger, 72V air-cooled, brushless DC motor, controller, and sealed belt drive. Both machines are capable of 75mph+ top speed and will provide up to 70 miles range* on the Outset or 75 miles* on the Anthem. The battery can be charged quickly from both 110V and 220V supplies. Outset has an 33” seat height but its compliant suspension and narrow cushion means it will comfortably accommodate a range of riders. The Anthem seat is adjustable from 31-34” to accommodate an even wider range of riders. Weighing just 313 and 315 lb, respectively, the Anthem and Outset share featherweight architecture and a low center of gravity. With the major components positioned at axle level, both bikes exhibit extraordinary handling characteristics, making them extremely easy to change direction at high speed or maneuver at low speed. Another benefit of electric power is the Ryvid Reverse Drive. 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. *Range is currently estimated on the the Ryvid Outset until it's subjected to the same Urban Dynamometer Driving Schedule as the Anthem to establish recognized city and highway range figures, which are available at ryvid.com. Battery range may vary and can depend on conditions such as rider weight, speed, temperature, wind, tire pressure, terrain, incline, etc. EDITOR’S NOTE Additional high-resolution images of the Ryvid-Sosa Anthem are available at ryvid.com/pages/media-room A Ryvid-Sosa Anthem video is available to view and share here: youtu.be/XfpGlzpjS-A?si=utyJjOsFMlW9z4VT 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/

June 19, 2024 06:05 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Days After Successful IPO, Fly-E Rings The Closing Nasdaq Bell And Celebrates E-Two-Wheel Market’s Future

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Ringing the opening or closing bell on the Nasdaq MarketSite is a rite of passage for a lucky few companies bestowed with that honor each year. It not only celebrates a company’s status as a public entity but showcases its strength in the market and with investors. Not to mention, it brings a little brand recognition. After all, the closing bell is broadcast on screens across the nation. Fly-E Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLYE), the maker of electric bikes, scooters, motorcycles and accessories, joined that elite club, with chairperson and CEO Andy Ou ringing the closing bell Wednesday. The gesture celebrated a successful startup that completed its initial public offering last week. It also comes at a time when the electric bike, scooter and motorcycle market is taking off. The global electric scooter market had a value of $24.67 billion last year and is predicted to reach $50.78 billion by 2032. Driving adoption is a push by governments around the world to curb emissions. With cities getting more crowded, hopping on an e-scooter or bike is not only greener, but a quick and easy way to get around. Fly-E Raises $9 Million From IPO In Fly-e’s IPO, the 2.25 million share offering was priced at $4 per share. The company, which raised $9 million in its IPO, granted underwriters a 30-day overallotment option to purchase an additional 337,500 shares at the IPO price, less underwriting discounts and commissions. Fly-e is using net proceeds from the offering to cover the purchase of inventory and production costs of its vehicles, the expansion of its retail stores, its technology, research and development initiatives, and for general corporate purposes. Started in 2018 and currently based in New York City, Fly-e is an electric vehicle company that is principally focused on designing, installing and selling smart electric motorcycles, electric bikes, electric scooters and related accessories under the brand “Fly E-Bike”. The company’s product line currently consists of 21 e-motorcycle products, 21 e-bike products and 34 e-scooter products, which it sells both online and through a network of 39 retail stores mainly in the U.S. The stores are strategically positioned in major metropolitan U.S. markets. In addition, Fly-e is opening locations in South America and Europe. Fly-e plans to expand its footprint of stores to other densely populated metro areas with some of the proceeds from its IPO. To keep costs down, most of the company’s manufacturing is handled in its China-based factories and assembled in the U.S. The goal is to become a leader in the electric two-wheel transportation market. High-Flying And Profitable While Fly-e is a high-flying growth IPO, its financials are much more stable than the run-of-the-mill startups that find profitability elusive as they chase growth. Fly-e reported $1.2 million in net income for the first nine months of 2023. Revenue grew 46% in the same time frame. Gross margins are 39% and the company is EBITDA and net profit positive. Fly-e attributes its margin strength to its growing maintenance, service business and accessories sales. That should increase further, along with an uptick of in-use bike counts, the company reports. All of this should be welcome news to its investors since cash-burning IPOs are losing their luster. Fly-e demonstrates a company can be an early-stage growth stock and still show financial discipline. The e-scooter, bike and motorcycle market is taking off, and Fly-e is emerging as an important player. It's a story investors may want to pay attention to. After all, the Nasdaq MarketSite certainly is. Featured photo by Nick Chong on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 14, 2024 08:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Collaboration between On and Verity – two pioneering Swiss brands – to transform supply chain operations with AI and robotics

Verity

On, a leading global sportswear brand, and Verity, a pioneering AI and robotics company, have announced a strategic collaboration to transform warehouse operations and optimize inventory management, ultimately enhancing supply chain efficiency and precision. On and Verity join forces, leveraging fleets of fully autonomous drones in warehouses to enable full operational visibility through smart, real-time inventory tracking, minimizing stockouts, misplacements, and shrinkage across the supply chain. This ensures flawless order fulfillment for retail and e-commerce. On is one of the fastest growing sportswear brands in history and seeks every technical advantage in its supply chain execution to support this growth. On identified Verity, renowned for its expertise in AI and robotics, as their preferred partner with in-depth technical expertise and a proven, intelligent and efficient system. Verity’s solution is used to perform millions of fully autonomous inventory checks each month in over 80 warehouses operated by different clients worldwide. This partnership delivers tangible business value by improving immediate product availability across On customer touchpoints—at physical stores and online—and maximizing successful order fulfillment by improving on-time and accurate deliveries. Verity clients see their operational issue rates reduced from 5-12% to less than 1%, significantly increasing their warehouses’ labor efficiency. By further digitizing On's supply chain, Verity strengthens its data accuracy and improves the quality and speed of decision-making. Already live at a US facility, Verity’s fleet of fully autonomous drones is scanning On products on a daily basis, ensuring full availability of stock for customer fulfillment. It is already improving key performance indicators (KPIs) and supporting On's objectives as a pioneer of new, more sustainable supply chains, by reducing CO2 emissions linked to warehousing: Verity clients observe a reduction of 1,000 tons of CO2 emissions per warehouse each year, on average. The collaboration’s goal is to explore new technology solutions to drive operational excellence and enhance inventory visibility, with On bringing Verity onboard with its 3PL partners. "We are excited to partner with Verity to transform our supply chain operations," said Caspar Coppetti, Co-Founder and Executive Co-Chairman at On. "Verity is a pioneering brand in the field of AI and robotics, and a perfect fit with On's values of harnessing innovation for the benefit of the customer experience. By leveraging innovative technological solutions, we aim to improve our operations' efficiency further, become a more sustainable brand, and take customer satisfaction to new heights. The collaboration of two pioneering Swiss brands can only mean an explosion of innovation!" "At Verity, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of AI and robotics to drive operational excellence," said Raffaello D’Andrea, Co-Founder and CEO at Verity. "Partnering with On, the most exciting sportswear brand in the market today, is a great opportunity to apply our shared commitment to leveraging technology to meet customer expectations. We share the same goals with On, in particular that of delivering an exceptional customer experience. This synergy is further amplified by our highly robust systems, boasting better than 99.99% reliability rates." Reflecting on two pioneering brands from Zurich, Switzerland, the collaboration between On and Verity underscores their shared DNA of using groundbreaking technology to deliver a superior customer experience. Both companies embrace the challenge and need for supply chain operational excellence to build customer excellence. About On On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Fourteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On. On is present in more than 60 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com. About Verity For industries that rely on fast and efficient supply chains, Verity delivers AI-powered mobile intelligence, enabling complete operational visibility through fleets of fully autonomous drones. Verity's system is used to perform millions of fully autonomous inventory checks each month in more than 80 warehouses across the globe. The Verity team includes some of the top minds in the world of AI and robotics, supply chain, and drone technology. The result: Valuable insights that empower businesses to achieve greater operational efficiencies and build faster, smarter, and more sustainable supply chains. Contact Details Verity Bilal Mahmood +44 7714 007257 b.mahmood@stockwoodstrategy.com Company Website https://verity.net/

June 13, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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How U Power (NASDAQ: UCAR) Is Addressing Key Concerns For Widespread EV Adoption – Including Range Anxiety And Charging Times

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Electric vehicles are growing in popularity as the world seeks a greener future. That’s true around the world with electric cars accounting for 18% of vehicles sold last year, up from just 2% five years ago. That growth could be even greater, but large-scale adoption of these emissions-free cars and trucks is proving elusive – something that is true in many countries. Range anxiety is a big reason. The fear of running out of battery life is too great for some consumers and fleet operators to overcome. Then there’s charging. It can take time to get the vehicle powered up, depending on the system and demand. U Power (NASDAQ: UCAR), the Nasdaq-listed EV power solution company, believes it has the solution to overcome those challenges and spur greater EV adoption across the globe. It is betting that UOTTA – its proprietary battery-swapping technology – can overcome range fears and eliminate any wasted time waiting for a vehicle to charge. This battery-swapping model is appealing because customers only need to pay for the vehicle when purchasing a vehicle through the battery bank. After that, they pay a monthly rental fee for the battery. Not only does this reduce the procurement cost of EVs but the rental and service fees for battery swapping during daily operations are 30% to 50% cheaper than fast charging. Since batteries are swapped out, it extends the lifespan of the batteries and protects the environment since the dismantling and recycling of the batteries after retirement complies with environmental policies. Speed Is Power With U Power’s advanced technology, consumers and fleet operators can replace dead EV batteries with fully charged ones in under five minutes. That removes the time challenges, and with swapping stations eventually located around the world, it eliminates the fear of running out of battery life. U Power isn’t your run-of-the-mill EV battery-swapping player, either. The company started out in 2013 as a vehicle-sourcing services company focused on lower-tier cities in China. Since then, U Power has forged partnerships with leading automotive manufacturers. Utilizing a distinctive financial model coupled with customized vehicle offerings, the company has filled the market gap beyond the 4S dealership network, establishing over 800 operational outlets across China. In 2017, U Power emerged as one of the earliest entrants into the new energy electric vehicle sales market. Leveraging market insights and accumulated experience, U Power pioneered the UOTTA battery-swapping technology in 2019. Collaborating with automotive manufacturers, the company introduced various models of battery-swapping vehicles for commercial use, successfully penetrating the market. Moreover, U Power is also a key contributor to the drafting of China's battery-swapping standards. With its industry influence and advantages, U Power achieved a milestone in 2023 by becoming the world's first publicly listed company specializing in electric vehicle battery-swapping technology. Since then, the company has been busy churning out new technology, securing 14 patents and 24 pending patent applications in China. Last year, it sold and delivered six battery-swapping stations to four customers. All told it has already sold eleven battery-swapping stations, and its solutions include UOTTA-powered EVs, battery-swapping stations and a data management platform synchronizing real-time data. U Power is also forging partnerships with Chinese automobile manufacturers to jointly develop commercial-use UOTTA-powered EVs, such as ride-hailing passenger EVs, small logistics EVs and light electric trucks. Major Collaborations Spurring Growth The company’s efforts towards forging partnerships were also on display recently with U Power inking a deal with Dutch electric vehicle company UNEX t o provide battery-swapping vehicles and swapping station services to Associação Nacional dos Transportes Rodoviários em Automóveis Ligeiros (ANTRAL), the association representing public passenger road transport companies operating light vehicles designated as taxis in Portugal. ANTRAL will use U Power’s UOTTA technology and battery swapping station model. Through the collaboration, the two aim to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector by 2030, in line with the European Union's decarbonization targets and Portugal's regulatory requirements for taxi vehicles. Combining U Power’s battery-swapping station model and UNEX’s extensive network and market know-how, U Power said the goal is to sell the taxi industry EVs and install charging and battery-swapping stations. The first phase of the agreement is expected to provide two swapping stations and 120 battery-swapping taxis. ANTRAL operates more than 1,000 taxis, covering over 80 million kilometers annually, with carbon emissions reaching 1,440 tons and fuel costs close to €10 million. By adopting UOTTA battery swapping services, U Power said related costs are expected to be reduced by 30-50%, aligning with the EU's goal of achieving 30 million "zero-emission" electric vehicles by 2030. "This collaboration between UNEX and ANTRAL that utilizes our UOTTA technology marks a significant stride towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing emissions. By combining our battery-swapping expertise with their commitment to decarbonization, we aim to facilitate the transition of taxi fleets from fossil fuels to electric mobility,” said Jia Li, Chairman and CEO of U Power. “This partnership highlights the global taxi industry's shift towards electrification, which will lead to reduced operational costs, increased driver earnings, and lower carbon footprints.” About 50,000 to 60,000 European taxis are expected to transition to electric vehicles in the next three to five years, presenting a big opportunity, reports U Power. Collaborations like that are behind the company’s revenue growth of 153.5% from fiscal year 2022 to fiscal year 2023. As U Power collaborates with more and more customers, it is building a brand and reputation in the market, which the company expects will drive further growth in the future. It is a big opportunity. The market size for battery swapping and electric commercial vehicles is projected to reach RMB 176,615.1 million in 2026, growing at a CAGR of 68.1% from now until then, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan, cited by U Power. Setting Its Sights Internationally Beyond its deal with ANTRAL, U Power is making inroads in other areas of its international expansion, including in Hong Kong, Southeast Asia and Peru. The company is focused on electrifying the commercial vehicle sector, particularly targeting urban taxis, buses, logistics vehicles, and transportation vehicles in mines. A crucial aspect of U Power's strategy is to collaborate with local industry-specific clients, integrating successful experiences from China with the specific demands of these clients. This approach involves systematizing the output of battery swapping stations, swapping vehicles, and battery banks, facilitating the rapid development of battery swapping services. In Peru, U Power just embarked on a collaborative pilot test with a Peruvian mining firm to evaluate electric heavy-duty vehicles on an established haulage route. This venture aims to identify an efficient substitute for traditional fuel-powered trucks, offering the potential to cut energy use and reduce operational costs, reports U Power. Then there’s its deal with Cornerstone Technologies Holdings Limited, a leading EV charging solution provider and charge point operator based in Hong Kong with an increasing presence across Southeast Asia. Under their memorandum of understanding, the two are jointly exploring and developing a strategic business relationship. “Through this collaboration, we believe our battery swapping stations will gain increased visibility in our target markets. We look forward to building a successful relationship that delivers sustainable value for our shareholders,” said Li. Even business with U Power’s existing customers is growing, underscoring the quality and innovative nature of its technology. Earlier this month, U Power announced it received a follow-on purchase order for its advanced dual-mode intelligent battery swapping stations from a major taxi operator in Jilin, China. These dual-mode intelligent battery swapping stations feature separate robotic guided vehicles (RGVs) for battery removal and installation. The use of robotics reduces the battery swapping time from between three to five minutes to two to three minutes. What’s more, U Power said the maintenance cycle of the swapping stations has been optimized, reducing weekly maintenance time by around six hours and enhancing operational efficiency by approximately 15%. As U Power transitions from a vehicle-sourcing business to providing comprehensive battery-swapping solutions based on its proprietary UOTTA technology, it is going beyond just selling battery-swapping equipment and vehicles, offering customers big and small an ecosystem of greener vehicle technology. The company is betting its technology and offering will play a pivotal role in making the world greener one fleet at a time. Featured photo by Ernest Ojeh on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

June 12, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Pyxis Tankers chairman and CEO on market outlook and growth strategies

Pyxis Tankers Inc

Pyxis Tankers Inc (NASDAQ:PXS) chairman and CEO Valentios (Eddie) Valentis, talked with Proactive about the recent Posidonia shipping event and its impact on the shipping industry. Valentis shared his insights on the optimistic outlook for shipping sectors despite global headwinds. He highlighted that industry players are leveraging substantial cash balances to pay down debt, renew fleets, and make significant shareholder distributions. Valentis noted the strong chartering environment for product tankers, influenced by tighter inventories and changing trade patterns due to geopolitical conflicts. Discussing market conditions, Valentis provided an update on product tankers and dry bulk sectors. He mentioned the positive near-term outlook supported by refinery additions and OPEC+ supply cuts. Additionally, Valentis shared Pyxis Tankers' recent performance, including Q1 2024 financial results, fleet expansion, and new acquisitions. He also outlined the company's shareholder value enhancement initiatives, such as share buyback programs and reducing convertible preferred shares. Valentis said the favourable prospects for both sectors and its existing capital resources allow Pyxis to actively pursue value-enhancing investment opportunities. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

June 11, 2024 11:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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