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  • Electrogenic unveils its full technology suite at SEMA for powering EV conversions

    Electrogenic unveils its full technology suite at SEMA for powering EV conversions

    Electrogenic, the internationally renowned EV technology company, has chosen SEMA to showcase its full suite of sector-leading EV products.

    These include the Oxford, UK based company’s sophisticated drop in EV conversion kits, proprietary integration technology and vehicle Control Unit (VCU) as well as its specialist electronics for both body control and driver interface.

    The British firm’s entire range of proven, proprietary EV powertrain tech will now be available to B2B customers for the very first time. (more…)

  • Production starts for central eActros 600 component at the Mannheim plant

    Production starts for central eActros 600 component at the Mannheim plant

    Mercedes-Benz Trucks will celebrate the start of series production of the eActros 600 at the end of November this year at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth. The eActros 600 was recently selected as international truck of the Year 2025 at the IAA-transportation in hannover.

    The first eActros 600 customer vehicles will be manufactured and registered before the end of 2024. In each vehicle, a central component from the mercedes-benz plant in mannheim will be installed the so-called front box. (more…)

  • Unlocking cryogenic material behaviour with novel cryostat

    Unlocking cryogenic material behaviour with novel cryostat

    The National Composites Centre NCC has further demonstrated the use of its novel cryostat to screen a wide selection of materials at cryogenic temperatures. The low cost method highlights the best candidates for detailed material testing using conventional methods. 

    Multiple cryostats have been developed and released including; microcrack fracture toughness and shear fixtures, with others, such as impact, under development.

    Understanding properties of materials at cryogenic temperatures is time consuming and costly, with limited existing UK capability. Driving transformational change in the field of cryogenics, the capability introduced by NCC will reduce the time, cost and complexity of cryogenic testing.  (more…)

  • RealWear acquires smartglasses innovator Almer, backed by TeamViewer

    RealWear acquires smartglasses innovator Almer, backed by TeamViewer

    In a move set to reshape the industrial augmented reality (AR) market, RealWear, a developer of wearable computing for industrial applications, has acquired Almer Technologies, a Swiss pioneer in ultra-compact, user-friendly AR headsets.

    This acquisition, strategically and financially backed by TeamViewer, the leading provider of enterprise AR software, marks a significant leap forward in the mission to empower frontline workers worldwide with cutting-edge AR technology.

    As the industrial sector increasingly turns to digital solutions to enhance productivity and safety, the demand for intuitive, wearable AR devices has surged. This acquisition unites RealWear’s market leadership with Almer’s innovative approach to meet this demand.

    Dr. Chris Parkinson, CEO of RealWear, says: “I’m extremely excited to welcome Almer and its founders, Timon Binder and Sebastian Beetschen to RealWear. Their successes in Europe are paralleled with a vision to drive AR adoption world wide.

    “This impact can now be brought to the global market as part of the RealWear ecosystem. Almer’s innovative subscription-based hardware renting model will enhance our existing portfolio to offer more flexible and scalable solutions for our partners and customers.

    “And we have secured TeamViewer’s renewed commitment and backing, strengthening our longstanding collaboration with the leading software company in the enterprise AR industry.”

    The acquisition brings together a powerful combination of strengths.

    RealWear’s established market presence and rugged, voice-operated solutions are now complemented by Almer’s innovative, subscription-based AR headsets, known for their compact design and user-friendliness.

    With a relentless focus on execution and customer-centric solutions, Almer quickly gained recognition as a disruptive force in enterprise AR and set a new industry standard.

    Sebastian Beetschen, CEO of Almer Technologies, adds: “Almer’s innovative approach for frontline workers has enabled us to deliver industrial AR solutions that are the most intuitive and most effortless to use.

    “We’re excited to bring in our expertise and speed of execution to RealWear and push the boundaries of frontline worker solutions.”

    TeamViewer has been a key partner and a strategic minority investor to both RealWear and Almer prior to the acquisition and will maintain this role moving forward.

    Global giants such as Coca-Cola HBC, Ford, Samsung SDS and many more have experienced significant efficiency gains and cost reductions by leveraging the combined power of TeamViewer’s software, RealWear’s and Almer’s wearable technology.

    Oliver Steil, CEO of TeamViewer, who has joined RealWear’s Board of Directors, says: “RealWear and Almer together unite the brightest minds in wearable computing to shape the future of the industry.

    “Investing in RealWear and supporting their growth is a strategic move for us and a stride into the future of industrial digital transformation.

    “Our shared vision is to continue to integrate software and hardware innovatively, delivering world-class industrial productivity solutions for maximum customer value.”

    As part of the acquisition, Almer’s co-founders will join RealWear’s executive team, creating a unified leadership focused on accelerating global AR adoption.

    Ultimately, this acquisition is set to make advanced technology more accessible and user-friendly for frontline workers across the globe.

    With this strategic acquisition and the continued backing of TeamViewer, RealWear is poised to lead the charge in the industrial wearables market. By blending software and hardware, the company aims to deliver world class productivity solutions for maximum customer value.

  • Unlocking cryogenic material behaviour with novel cryostat

    Unlocking cryogenic material behaviour with novel cryostat

    The national composites centre NCC has further demonstrated the use of its novel cryostat to screen a wide selection of materials at cryogenic temperatures. The low cost method highlights the best candidates for detailed material testing using conventional methods. 

    Multiple cryostats have been developed and released including microcrack fracture toughness and shear fixtures, with others, such as impact, under development.  

    Understanding properties of materials at cryogenic temperatures is time consuming and costly, with limited existing UK capability. Driving transformational change in the field of cryogenics, the capability introduced by NCC will reduce the time, cost and complexity of cryogenic testing. 

    The 3D printed cryostat that has been developed provides the capability to rapidly screen cryogenic material properties, whilst providing insight into failure mechanisms. A video of the material test in action can be viewed here which shows the forming of microcracks in a thermoset sample under tension at approximately -160°C. The cryostat shown is an early iteration that has since been developed. 

    Allowing material specimens to be viewed live during the test process to identify ‘microcracking’ is achieved via optical access, a key feature of the device. The test has a cycle time of approximately under an hour to cool and test, allowing a high throughput of test specimens. This is achieved by using cryogenically cooled nitrogen gas, utilising a design with a low thermal mass and volume. Utilising a tensile testing machine, no modifications to existing test machines are required.  

    Leading the cryostat development project, Matt Kay, Principal Engineer at the National Composites Centre said The cryostat concept allows the rate of cryogenic materials testing to significantly increase, helping engineers and researchers to learn quickly and cost effectively, reducing the burden in developing new products for the emerging liquid hydrogen industry. 

    To enhance collaboration and UK industry advancement, companies interested in collaborating or accessing the cryostat technology can contact: hydrogen@nccuk.com to express interest. 

  • E-type UK creates bespoke Jaguar speedster

    E-type UK creates bespoke Jaguar speedster

    E-Type UK, the world-leading expert on the definitive classic sports car, has completed a painstaking 3,500 hour restoration and bespoke upgrade programme on a Jaguar E-type Series 1 Roadster, producing a refined and optimised british speedster.

    Famously described by none other than Enzo Ferrari as the most beautiful car in the world, thanks to the hadlow, Kent based E-Type UK, this gleaming E-type now delivers a fast road driving experience to match the stunning looks.

    An icon revitalised

    The subject of the restoration and upgrade works, a 1961 left-hand drive model, was first delivered new to Puerto Rico. After many years overseas, the car returned to the UK, being bought by the current owner as the basis for creating his ultimate open top E-type.

    He tasked E-Type UK – recognised marque experts, and specialists in custom Jaguar builds – with further refining the car’s elegant 1960s bodywork to create something more purposeful, with elevated modern performance to match.

    The customer – who intends to use the car exclusively in warmer climates – instructed the team to remove the soft top entirely, to create a true E-type speedster.

    Meticulous restoration process, inside and out

    E-Type UK’s expert team have since lavished over 3,500 hours on the car, focusing on every detail down to the very last bolt. As with all the firm’s restoration projects, the process began with a full strip down of the shell, and removing all components.

    The team then undertook a comprehensive assessment of the body panels to ensure structural integrity, before carefully blasting them to remove half a century of material build-up. 

    During the team’s analysis of the car, it was discovered that significant repairs to the shell were needed, with multiple panels badly corroded or rotted from years of exposure to the elements.

    E-Type UK seized this opportunity to further refine the bodywork and enhance that iconic 1960s design, with a de-seamed bonnet and tailgate, including further rounding of bodywork edges across the car.

    The de-seaming process also allowed the specialists to remove exterior chrome work for a cleaner look, including the exterior door handles – replaced with a subtle internal electronic release.

    The new aesthetic was capped off by custom headlight covers and – with no need to accommodate a soft top – all finishing edges have been beautifully rounded.

    With the metalwork complete, the iconic silhouette of the E-type emerged anew and then was surfaced and finally treated with a coat of Opalescent Gunmetal for a rich, lustrous finish.

    The painting process took over 400 hours in all, using the highest quality products to achieve a show stopping depth and shine.

    An interior to match

    The same attention to detail has been paid to the interior, with the E-type UK team creating a custom, totally transformed cabin. Realising the client’s vision, a custom finish was applied to the seats, sills and carpets – which are now adorned in Red diamond quilted leather.

    This is offset by a gleaming, period correct aluminium centre console and dash, housing the iconic original lineup of Smiths gauges.

    The team have also fabricated a bespoke storage area across the rear bulkhead, making use of this space, which is now beautifully trimmed in matching leather and pattern.

    This bespoke storage space also doubles up as a useful seating area for furry friends, ensuring the families beloved pets can tag along for the ride. E-Type UK has supplied a removable padded section for added pet friendly comfort. 

    Pursuit of mechanical perfection

    The team have spent hundreds more hours on work beneath the car’s skin, with entirely refreshed and overhauled mechanical components.

    While the car was in paint, the team had been hard at work preparing and enhancing the car’s vital elements, such as its beating heart: the fully rebuilt, 3.8-litre straight six engine, now finished to a ‘fast road’ specification.

    The motor has been overhauled from top to bottom in the E-type UK workshops. After being fully stripped down, the block was honed and bored, with high-lift cams and new bearings fitted, along with bronze valve guides, uprated valves, a ported head and a balanced crank.

    It is now fed by fully rebuilt triple SU carbs, with an increased compression ratio and new lighter flywheel. The car now also benefits from electronic ignition, sport ignition coil, high-torque starter motor and lightweight alternator.

    These changes are complemented by an uprated, performance cooling system and larger fan, for dramatically improved air-flow – ideal for enthusiastic drives in the warmer climes where this car will reside.

    These changes have created a powerplant that now revs with a newfound urgency, emitting an addictive straight six roar in the process – now all the more enveloping thanks to the new ‘speedster’ layout.

    The motor drives through a brand-new, beautifully mechanical, 5-speed manual gearbox, and the enhanced performance is kept in check thanks to upgraded adjustable suspension and sports performance brakes.

    A gleaming masterpiece

    E-Type UK’s creation of this stunning, highly bespoke E-type Speedster stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence in classic automotive space, with a unique ability to blend originality and with carefully selected, transformative enhancements.

    It also acts as a fine reminder of the E-type’s timeless allure, a true British design icon that now delivers truly modern performance to match the stunning looks.

  • Global VR market will hit $57 billion by 2030, forecasts globalization

    Global VR market will hit $57 billion by 2030, forecasts globalization

    Virtual reality VR is a niche technology with gaming, entertainment, and professional training applications. Despite the challenges that will limit the adoption of VR technology, the global VR market is forecast to grow from  $11 billion in 2023 to $57 billion by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 26 percent over the period, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Globaldata’s latest Strategic Intelligence report  “Virtual Reality,” reveals that while the revenue share of VR software in the total VR market will slightly decline from 61 percent in 2023 to 59 percent in 2030, VR hardware will increase its share from 39 percent in 2023 to 41percent in 2030.

    Shabnam Pervez, Analyst, Strategic Intelligence team at GlobalData, comments: “As VR adoption grows, both hardware and software will experience more demand. Demand for VR software will be driven by advancements in content creation and the development of more immersive experiences while declining hardware costs will make VR headsets more accessible to a broader audience.”

    Globaldata’s report also highlights that VR players may eventually transition to mixed reality MR, which is a hybrid technology that enables users to see and interact with virtual objects integrated into the real world. MR has become desirable to headset makers as an alternative to VR.

    For example, HTC, Meta, and Pico started with pure VR headsets but have pivoted to MR. HTC released its vive focus 3 in 2022, a standalone mixed reality headset. The meta-owned oculus is also working on Mr headsets. Pico Interactive also makes several MR headsets, including the Pico Neo 3.

    Pervez adds Apple’s vision pro, launched in february 2024, is typically described as an Mr device. Apple will likely set the path for many more VR makers to transition towards MR. However, VR companies will all strategize differently. For example, Meta will likely continue to call its devices VR headsets as it has invested so much in VR tech. However, the company’s offering has more in common with MR than standalone VR.

    The transition reflects an interest in bridging the gap between the immersive world of VR and the user’s physical environment. MR’s ability to overlay digital elements onto the real world presents exciting possibilities for applications where maintaining awareness of surroundings is crucial. The market is responding to a demand for MR in areas like design, education, and even healthcare, where seamlessly blending virtual elements with real-world environments holds significant value.

    Despite advances in hardware and software, VR faces significant challenges that will hinder its growth. One of the primary obstacles is its cost. VR headsets, even those with basic features, typically cost between $200 and $1,000. Additionally, some VR headsets must be tethered to powerful devices to function effectively, which can further increase the overall cost.

    Another challenge is the potential for negative health effects associated with prolonged VR use. Some users have suffered eye strain, headaches, and motion sickness. Addressing these health concerns is crucial to ensure the long-term viability of VR technology.

    Pervez concludes moreover, the development of compelling and diverse VR content remains a challenge. While there have been some successful VR experiences, creating content that truly captivates users and offers lasting value is not always easy. The lack of a thriving VR content ecosystem could further limit the appeal of the technology.

    The estimate includes revenues generated by VR hardware i.e., headsets and software i.e., apps and content distributed via VR app stores. It does not cover revenues from VR services like hardware designing, app development, and VR arcades

  • Enhancing compliance and sustainability in fishing operations

    Enhancing compliance and sustainability in fishing operations

    Empowering hybrid connectivity at sea

    Satellite-based hybrid connectivity solutions are uniquely positioned to support fishing vessels, even in the most remote waters by integrating satellite technology with other communication systems, fishing fleets can maintain continuous connectivity, no matter their location of the weather conditions.

    This uninterrupted connectivity enables real-time tracking, optimised navigation, and enhanced fleet management, bridging the information gap that often hinders compliance and operational efficiency.

    Hybrid satellite networks facilitate secure data transfer and communication for vessels, regulatory bodies, and environmental organisations, creating a seamless connection between the industry’s needs and sustainability goals.  

    Ensuring compliance and transparency through real-time data

    Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of sustainable fishing practices, and satellite connectivity plays a crucial role in enabling it. Through satellite networks, fisheries can transmit accurate and timely data on their location, fishing activities, and catch data, to meet national and international environmental regulations.

    This ensures that vessels adhere to restricted fishing zones, seasonal bans, and protected marine areas, aiding regulatory agencies in monitoring compliance and reducing illegal fishing. With hybrid satellite solutions, fishing vessels are equipped with powerful, efficient tools to uphold environmental standards, protect marine life, and promote legal fishing practices.  

    Combatting overfishing with data and analytics

    Overfishing remains a critical challenge, and satellite-enabled data is paving the way for more informed decision-making. By collecting and analysing data in fish stocks, fishing patterns, and catch sizes, satellite technology allows both fisheries and environmental organisation to understand and mitigate overfishing trends.

    This insight empowers fisheries to make data-driven decision on when, where, and how much to fish, safeguarding marine ecosystems and supporting the long-term sustainability of fish populations.  

    The future of sustainable fishing: Harnessing the power of satellite innovation

    As the fishing industry embraces sustainability, the role of satellite connectivity is set to expand. Innovations in satellite technology, in collaboration with environmental and regulatory bodies, are positioned to support fisheries in meeting global demands for sustainable, compliant operations.

    The commitment to hybrid connectivity solutions, bolstered by advanced satellite networks, represents a future where fishing fleets operate with both efficiency and responsibility, contributing to a healthier ocean ecosystem.  

    Gregory Darling, founder and chairman at AST networks, said, at AST networks, we believe that hybrid satellite connectivity is key to advancing both operational efficiency and sustainability in the fishing industry.  

    By providing real-time tracking and data-driven insights, we’re empowering fleets to operate responsibly and in compliance with the environmental standards. Our mission it to support the industry’s transition to sustainable practices, ensuring that our oceans are protected for future generations.

  • Volvo Group and Daimler Truck sign binding agreement for joint venture

    Volvo Group and Daimler Truck sign binding agreement for joint venture

    As announced in may this year, Volvo Group and Daimler Truck intend to create a joint venture to develop a common software-defined vehicle platform and dedicated truck operating system, providing the basis for future software-defined commercial vehicles.

    The two leading companies in the commercial vehicle industry have now signed a binding agreement to establish the joint venture and are working towards setting up the company that will be headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden.

    The software-defined vehicle platform will enable Volvo Group and Daimler Truck and potential other future customers of the joint venture to provide stand-alone digital vehicle functions for their products. 

    Leading the digital transformation

    The signing demonstrates our joint commitment to lead the digital transformation of our industry. The software and hardware from this joint venture will be crucial for achieving unprecedented levels of safety, comfort, and efficiency for our customers, says Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck.

    Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO of the Volvo Group, adds we are joining forces to redefine software architecture and pioneer a new era of self-optimizing trucks.

    Together we are removing complexity to allow our customers to unlock higher levels of connectivity, safety and efficiency and continually push for a greater performance. It is a revolutionary response to the challenges of our modern world, and we are proud to be setting the industry standard.

    The joint venture’s activities will include the specification and procurement of centralized high-performance control units dedicated for commercial vehicles and capable of handling large amounts of data.

    The new company will develop an operating system and tools which vehicle manufacturers can use as a basis to develop their own differentiating digital vehicle features. This will decouple software and hardware development cycles in the future and enable customers to purchase and update digital applications wirelessly over the air, ultimately enhancing customer efficiency and experience. 

    Volvo group and daimler truck will remain competitors and continue to differentiate their complete product and services offerings, including their respective digital solutions.

  • AI-powered drone swarms transform industries beyond defense

    AI-powered drone swarms transform industries beyond defense

    While drone swarms have been an area of technological development for many years, their practical applications have only recently gained significant momentum, particularly following increased attention during the Russia-Ukraine war, as reflected in Google search trends.

    The rapid advancement in AI technologies has further accelerated drone swarm control capabilities, enabling the integration of computer vision algorithms and geospatial data to recognize patterns and automate previously impossible operations.

    This evolution has led to drone swarms finding diverse applications across multiple industries, earning recognition as a high-impact innovation, according to technology foresights, an innovation intelligence platform by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The latest advancement in drone swarm technology significantly enhances operational efficiency by eliminating the traditional requirement of one operator per drone. This breakthrough achieves advanced autonomy through onboard intelligent agents, developed using human-in-loop and trustworthy ai systems.

    These agents can independently assess their surroundings, exchange target data with other drones, and make mission-priority decisions without requiring constant communication with the control station. This innovation addresses a critical weakness in swarm-based warfare systems, where electronic warfare tactics frequently overwhelm communication systems and disrupt the data connection between drones and their control stations.

    Sourabh nyalkalkar, practice head of innovation products at globaldata, comments in an era marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, drone warfare has emerged as a pivotal element in modern military operations, with armed forces globally embracing unmanned aerial vehicles for a diverse range of tactical and reconnaissance missions.

    In a significant development, defense industry major Thales recently showcased a full-scale demonstration of drone swarm deployment, featuring multiple autonomy levels that significantly reduce operator cognitive burden. The company’s expertise in this domain has not gone unnoticed, as Thales has been recognized as one of the leaders in drone swarm control innovation, according to Technology Foresights.

    In response to the current geopolitical climate and growing military demand for advanced drone capabilities, drone swarm control technology is expected to experience significant growth. Patent analysis reveals that over 50 percent of technology patents in this field have been granted within the past three years, with major corporations holding the majority share.

    Though smaller in proportion, startup-owned patents are rapidly increasing, accompanied by growing investment activity in the sector. Recent developments highlight this trend, as demonstrated by Ukrainian startup Swarmer securing $2.7 million in funding for the development and commercialization of its AI-based swarm control technology, Styx, while another US-based startup, EchelonAI, entered into M&A with Skyfire.

    Nyalkalkar continues thehe innovation landscape in drone swarm control technologies extends well beyond the defense sector, with significant developments emerging from the communications and networking industry. Telecommunication companies are rapidly adopting drone swarms for various applications, including network optimization, infrastructure monitoring, and emergency coverage deployment in critical areas.”

    The technology’s development ecosystem is diverse and competitive, with over 100 companies actively innovating in this space. While defense industry leaders like Thales, RTX, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems continue to advance military applications, specialized drone manufacturers such as SZ DJI, Skydio, and Tevel are making significant contributions.

    Additionally, major telecommunications players including Qualcomm, Ericsson, Verizon, and AT&T are developing their own drone swarm solutions, while geospatial solution providers like Here and Geofrenzy are expanding the technology’s capabilities.

    Nyalkalkar concludes The rapid advancement of AI technology has catalyzed unprecedented growth in drone swarm applications across diverse sectors. Retail and logistics giants such as Amazon, Walmart, and UPS are developing autonomous master-slave drone networks for last-mile delivery, while agritech companies such as Nileworks are creating innovative solutions for crop monitoring.

    As drone swarm control technologies continue to evolve beyond traditional entertainment and light shows, this dynamic field promises exciting developments and transformative applications across multiple industries in the coming years.