Ukraine must be in strong position for negotiations, Starmer says
DOVER, Del. (AP) — A Delaware judge has reaffirmed her ruling that Tesla must revoke Elon Musk’s multibillion-dollar pay package Chancellor Kathaleen St. Jude McCormick on Monday denied a request by attorneys for Musk and Tesla’s corporate directors to vacate her ruling earlier this year requiring the company to rescind the unprecedented pay package. McCormick also rejected an equally unprecedented and massive , who argued that they were entitled to legal fees in the form of Tesla stock valued at more than $5 billion. The judge said the attorneys were entitled to a fee award of $345 million. The rulings came in a lawsuit filed by a Tesla stockholder who challenged Musk’s 2018 compensation package. McCormick concluded in January that Musk engineered the landmark pay package in with directors who were not independent. The compensation package initially carried a potential maximum value of about $56 billion, but that sum has fluctuated over the years based on Tesla’s stock price.
Wildlife TV presenter and conservationist Chris Packham has resigned as president of the RSPCA after an investigation made allegations of animal cruelty at some of the charity’s approved abattoirs. Former Green Party leader Caroline Lucas has also resigned as vice-president of the animal welfare organisation, with both of them expressing their “sadness” over leaving the roles. It comes after an Animal Rising investigation made claims of cruelty at “RSPCA Assured” slaughterhouses in England and Scotland, with the campaign group sharing footage of alleged mistreatment. RSPCA Assured is a scheme whereby approved farms must comply with the organisation’s “stringent higher welfare standards”, according to its website. Mr Packham shared the news of his resignation on social media, saying: “It is with enormous sadness that I have resigned from my role as president of the RSPCA. “I would like to register my respect and admiration for all the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to protect animals from cruelty.” Ms Lucas said she and Mr Packham failed to get the charity’s leadership to act. She posted on X, formerly Twitter: “With huge sadness I’m resigning as VP of the RSPCA, a role I’ve held with pride for over 15 years. “But their Assured Schemes risk misleading the public & legitimising cruelty. “I tried with @ChrisGPackham to persuade the leadership to act but sadly failed.” In June, the RSPCA commissioned an independent review of 200 farms on its assurance scheme which concluded the scheme was “operating effectively” to assure animal welfare on member farms. Following Animal Rising’s release of footage last week, the charity said it was “appalled” by what was shown, adding that it launched an immediate investigation and suspended three slaughterhouses from the scheme. In the wake of Mr Packham and Ms Lucas’ resignations, an RSPCA spokesperson said it is “simply not true” that the organisation has failed to take urgent action. They said: “We agree with Chris and Caroline on so many issues and have achieved so much together for animals, but we differ on how best to address the incredibly complex and difficult issue of farmed animal welfare. “We have discussed our work to drive up farmed animal welfare standards openly at length with them on many occasions and it is simply not true that we have not taken urgent action. “We took allegations of poor welfare incredibly seriously, launching an independent review of 200 farms which concluded that it was ‘operating effectively’ to improve animal welfare. “We are taking strong steps to improve oversight of welfare, implementing the recommendations in full including significantly increasing unannounced visits, and exploring technology such as body-worn cameras and CCTV, supported by £2 million of investment.” The charity insisted that while 94% of people continue to choose to eat meat, fish, eggs and dairy, it is the “right thing to do” to work with farmers to improve the lives of animals. “RSPCA Assured visit all farms on the scheme every year, but last year just 3% of farms were assessed for animal welfare by state bodies,” the spokesperson continued. “No-one else is doing this work. We are the only organisation setting and regularly monitoring animal welfare standards on farms. “We have pioneered change through RSPCA Assured, which has led to improvements throughout the industry including CCTV in slaughterhouses, banning barren battery cages for hens and sow stalls for pigs, giving salmon more space to swim and developing slower growing chicken breeds who have better quality of life.”
ROME — When Bellamy Elementary School students colored pictures of sneakers this week, they weren’t just practicing their artistry — they were also creating a statement about their own uniqueness, said school Counselor Michael Vargas. The Rome City School District commemorated Inclusive Schools Week from Dec. 2-6 with a weeklong, district-wide celebration that highlighted inclusion and the diverse identities, backgrounds and abilities of both students and staff. Activities ranged from themed dress-up days and activities focused on friendship and kindness for the pre-kindergartners to self-reflection through poetry and art for the older students at Rome Free Academy. At Bellamy Elementary School, students expressed themselves through a unique sneaker design workshop in their classrooms and a daily book reading. Vargas — who is well-known at the school for his penchant for unusual sneakers — visited Kerri Race’s first graders Friday during their social emotional learning time to lead the activity. After showing them the sample of the sneaker art he colored himself featuring his favorite color, movie and superhero, he passed out papers with a sneaker drawing on them for the kids to create their own statement. “Don’t just color or scribble — show me how special you are in your sneaker,” he tasked the kids. While they worked, he and Race wandered around the classroom to brainstorm and inspire the children in creating a sneaker design that was unique just to them. “I am very impressed by what they’ve come up with,” Vargas, who was sporting bright orange-red sneakers that day, said. “It’s great to see the express their personalities. This was a great way to show them just who they are.” “I think this project really helps build their confidence in who they are — especially in this loud and busy world,” Race said. They all also watched a Brightly Storytime video reading the book “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold. Vargas occasionally stopped the video to pose questions to the students, asking what their favorite foods are and what they are really good at. Many of the responses were different, and that was the point of the activity. “There are so many different things about us but that’s what makes us fabulous,” Race told the children. Bellamy is a welcoming and affirming community of beautifully unique individuals, where students feel valued and loved each and every day, complimented Principal Jodi Marchione. Marchione said their “kiddos” were very excited to take part in the week’s diversity and inclusivity activities and share their experiences with one another. The finished artwork now adorns the hallways of the school for all to see and be inspired by. “We are all so very proud of our Bellamy Bulldogs and the achievements they make daily,” Marchione said. District Superintendent of Schools Nerlande Anselme said the students across the district benefit greatly from participating in the Inclusive Schools Week activities. “These events create opportunities for students to celebrate diversity and deepen their understanding of inclusion, fostering empathy and respect for others,” Anselme said. “By engaging in activities that highlight the value of every individual’s unique background and experiences, students develop a stronger sense of belonging within their school community.” Inclusive Schools Week empowers students to take an active role in promoting equity and inclusivity, she said. Whether through leadership opportunities, collaborative projects or discussions, they gain skills in communication, teamwork and problem-solving. These experiences not only build their confidence but also prepare them to advocate for positive change in their schools and beyond, Anselme said. Hosting activities at all Rome schools also promotes inclusivity, she added. “The district-wide approach connects students across schools, encouraging a sense of unity and shared purpose,” she explained. “It reinforces the idea that inclusivity is a collective effort, benefiting all students by creating a more supportive and welcoming educational environment.”
Time to focus on private sector job growth in B.C. (Opinion)
Why is Blake Lively suing 'It Ends With Us' costar Justin Baldoni? Here is allThe week after adjusting their roster to protect prospects and define their depth, the Cardinals continued that annual addition of minor league deals to fill organizational openings with the signing of a rival's former top prospect. The Cardinals formally announced a minor league agreement with infielder Jose Barrero on Monday afternoon, a week or so after reaching a deal with the shortstop who was Cincinnati's No. 1 prospect entering the 2022 season. He was their opening day shortstop in 2023. Viewed as a slick fielder, Barrero's offense hasn't kept pace, and the Reds moved him off the roster when peers surpassed him. Barrero, now 26, played 139 games for the Reds in the majors and has a .186/.242/.255 slash line through four different seasons. In 2023, he began the year as the Reds' starting shortstop, and through 46 games that year, he had his best stretch of production, with a .218 average, a .295 on-base percentage and a .619 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) through 149 plate appearances. In around 600 innings at shortstop from 2022-23 in the majors, Barrero registered a minus-7 defensive runs saved, per FanGraphs. A native of Havana, Cuba, Barrero was one of the Reds' high-dollar signings from the international free-agent marketplace within the past decade. They outbid other teams with a $5 million offer, and within a few years, Barrero stood out within Cincinnati's organization for his potential. He represented the Reds in the 2021 Futures Game. Baseball America ranked him the No. 33rd prospect in all of the minors entering the 2022 season, and BA also had him No. 1 within the Reds organization. That put him ahead of No. 2 Hunter Greene, No. 3 Nick Lodolo and No. 4 Elly De La Cruz. In a projection of the Reds' 2025 lineup, Baseball America had Barrero at shortstop and electrifying talent De La Cruz at third base. This past March, the Reds placed Barrero on waivers, and the Rangers picked him up. He played 49 games at Class AAA Round Rock and hit .188/.277/.345 for a .622 OPS. His season was abbreviated by an injury that ultimately put him on the 60-day injured list. He did not play after an on-field collision, and journalist Francys Romero reported that Barrero had to have his spleen removed as a result of the collision. This month, Barrero had the right to choose minor league free agency and did. Now healthy, Barrero has been playing in the Dominican Republic's winter league. For Estrellas and its manager Fernando Tatis Sr., Barrero hit .238 with a .360 on-base percentage and a .492 slugging percentage through his first 21 games and 71 plate appearances. So far this offseason, the Cardinals have acquired depth at two spots they and many other clubs usually go shopping for this time of year: pitching and middle infield. The Cardinals claimed right-hander Roddery Munoz off waivers from Miami, and they signed right-hander Michael Gomez to a minor league deal. Gomez and Barrero both received invites to major league spring training as part of their new contracts. Minor league deals mean the player is not on the 40-player roster. This past week, the Cardinals did not present a contract to right-hander Adam Kloffenstein, allowing him to become a free agent. The Cardinals presented contracts to every other member of the 40-player roster who was not already signed for the 2025 season. They have two openings on the 40-player roster. The Cardinals opted to keep infielder Jose Fermin as depth at multiple positions, and Barrero adds a challenger for that same role with the possibility of backing up at shortstop. Barrero also gives the Cardinals a shortstop at Class AAA Memphis as prospect Thomas Saggese makes his bid for the big league club. With the exception of the Los Angeles Angels and their beat-the-rush signings of a few free agents, the hot stove has yet to warm this winter. A lot of attention has been on the courtship of Juan Soto. Throughout Major League Baseball, the expectation is that activity will accelerate into a flurry around the annual winter meetings, which are set to start Dec. 9 in Dallas. Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak told the Post-Dispatch recently that the "pace" of his conversations with other teams and free agents are pointing toward activity at the winter meetings.
Despite technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics, people’s relationship with work ... [+] remains strained. Is work working? Despite technological advancements and evolving workplace dynamics, people’s relationship with work remains strained. A new worldwide study from HP reveals a disconnect between employees and their jobs despite many companies rethinking workplace tools and offering employees more flexibility. HP’s second annual Work Relationship Index , a survey of over 15,600 individuals across 12 countries, finds that only 28% of knowledge workers report a healthy relationship with work. The new WRI shows a consistent trend in employee engagement drivers, with scores remaining relatively stable compared to 2023. For example, the scores for workspace (defined as flexibility and trust in where employees work) and tools (the right technology to drive employee engagement) both remained flat at 25 and 26 out of 100, respectively. People-centricity, now at 24, and leadership, at 26, each went up by one point. Skills—meaning building confidence by tapping into the enthusiasm to learn new skills—also increased one point, but its overall score of 32 indicates that it is a stronger driver of a healthy work relationship. While the stability of these drivers suggests that the fundamental elements of a positive work experience remain the same, it also indicates that not much has changed in the past 12 months regarding building a better worker experience. This is especially clear in the answers to questions about trust in senior leadership and how workers want to be seen as individuals. The key takeaway? Work isn’t working because the way we work is outdated. Companies haven’t adapted to the needs of today’s workers, who crave individuality and tailored experiences instead of being treated like cogs in a machine. But there’s hope. The WRI identifies two potential solutions for fostering healthier work relationships: personalized work experiences and AI. The need for these solutions is becoming increasingly urgent, as reflected by the nearly three-quarters of leaders surveyed who agreed that it is critical to redefine the world’s relationship with work. The Personalized Employee Experience Large majorities of knowledge workers (68%), business leaders (75%) and IT decision makers (76%) said they desire personalized work experiences—including having access to the right technologies and workspaces and the ability to shape a flexible schedule. Well over half of the knowledge workers surveyed stated that having these needs met would make them more invested in their company’s growth, enhance their overall well-being and incentivize them to stay with their current employer. In fact, the WRI indicates that knowledge workers who feel their work experience is customized to their preferences are more than twice as likely to have a healthy relationship with work. Save Up To 75% With The Best Black Friday Clothing Deals That Are Still Running 10 Unofficial Hoka Cyber Week Sales You Don’t Want To Miss The WRI shows that this issue is important enough that employees are willing to put their money where their mouths are about it. A staggering 87% of workers globally report being willing to forgo a portion of their salary—14% on average—to achieve a more personalized work environment. Gen Z workers report being willing to give up as much as 19% on average to have a customized work environment. The Rise Of AI And Its Impact On Work-Life Balance Can AI help with customizing the workplace? The past year has seen an explosive surge in AI adoption, particularly in the workplace. In 2023, 38% of knowledge workers, 68% of business leaders and 63% of IT decision makers had used AI at work. In 2024, as AI started to shift from hype to realized benefits, knowledge workers (66%) and ITDMs (91%) each reported dramatic 28-point increases in AI usage, while business leaders (88%) showed a significant 20-point jump. Workers who use AI report greater job satisfaction and work-life balance. AI tools automate tasks, streamline workflows and give employees more time and opportunities to enjoy their work—so much so that 60% of WRI respondents who use AI credit it with contributing to a better work-life balance, while 68% say AI opens up new opportunities for them to enjoy their work. This correlation between AI usage and work-life balance highlights an urgency to integrate AI into the workplace, especially considering the growing fear of job displacement among non-AI users. It’s no accident that HP sponsored this research—and asked so much about AI—given the technology it deploys in the workplace. Like other big PC makers, HP has integrated AI into its latest generation of PCs, with features designed to optimize user experiences, boost productivity and enhance collaboration. For instance, HP offers an AI Companion to help users with tasks such as refining workflows and optimizing PC settings; in theory, this should make customizing work experiences much simpler without IT involvement. For remote collaboration, HP’s Poly Camera Pro leverages AI to enhance webcam capabilities, for example by intelligently blurring and replacing backgrounds on video calls. Features such as these can improve the quality of virtual interactions, which can be crucial considerations for remote workers. Computer OEMs are counting on rapid enterprise adoption of AI PCs , with many industry watchers predicting major upgrade cycles from now through 2025, and some industry insiders projecting that AI PCs will dominate the PC market by the end of this decade. If this does come to pass, it will be interesting to see if these technology upgrades have an impact on future versions of the WRI. The Leadership Gap And The Rise Of Female Leaders While the WRI highlights the importance of strong leadership in cultivating a healthy work relationship, it also reveals a concerning trend: only 44% of leaders express confidence in their human skills (sometimes called “soft” skills), such as empathy and communication. This is concerning because 78% of employees highly value empathy from their leaders, yet only 28% see it consistently. A lack of empathy in leaders can lead to misunderstandings, decreased morale and a decline in overall productivity. However, this gap in leadership presents an opportunity for positive change. The study found that female business leaders are significantly more confident than their male counterparts in both the “hard” technical skills and the human skills required to succeed at work. On average, women are 10 points more confident in their hard skills and 13 points more confident in their soft skills compared to their male counterparts. This suggests a potential shift in leadership paradigms, one in which more women can rise to leadership positions. This shift may also present a crucial challenge for men in leadership roles. To thrive in this evolving workplace, men must actively develop and embrace these essential human skills, which could create a more balanced and effective leadership environment for everyone. Looking Ahead: Embracing AI And Personalization Regardless of the specific leadership or technology developments that unfold in the future, it is clear that employer and employee expectations have evolved, and that leveraging both smarter management practices and smarter technology is essential to meeting the needs of today’s workforce. In particular, AI will shape the future of work by creating solutions and experiences that foster business growth while supporting personal and professional fulfillment. The findings of the HP Work Relationship Index serve as a wake-up call for organizations worldwide. By embracing AI, prioritizing personalization and fostering empathetic leadership, companies can cultivate a work environment where both employees and their organizations thrive.Titans are their own worst enemy as they fail again to string together wins
AI, ML revolutionising electrical engineering: ExpertsORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) — In a season that began with many questions and lowered expectations , it was apt watching Bills quarterback Josh Allen join coach Sean McDermott lay on the cold, wet sideline to make snow angels in celebrating Buffalo’s earliest clinching of a division title in team history. That Allen took part was no surprise. The newly engaged 28-year-old has maintained the happy-go-lucky approach he brought with him to Buffalo as a raw-talented athlete in 2018, while gradually blossoming into one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. For McDermott, it was a pleasant surprise to see the usually reserved eight-year coach finally let his hair down — figuratively, because the few jokes he does make are usually about being bald. With his latest do-it-all three-TD outing — one rushing, one receiving and, the coup de grace, being credited with receiving his own pass for a score off a lateral from Amari Cooper — in a 35-10 win over San Francisco on Sunday night , Allen continued making his strongest NFL MVP case. What’s also becoming apparent is how much McDermott deserves consideration for coach of the year honors. Without the two, the Bills (10-2) wouldn’t be in this position in becoming just the eighth NFL team — and first since Indianapolis in 2009 — to clinch a division title with at least five games remaining in their schedule. It’s reflective of how the two have grown together in what, on the outside, could be perceived as an odd couple relationship between an offensive-minded, swashbuckling quarterback and a defensive-minded coach, too often knocked for being too conservative. Perhaps, it’s Allen’s boyish nature that has brought out the risk-taker in McDermott, who has carried over the aggressive approach he takes to defense by placing trust in his quarterback. It’s become apparent in everything the Bills have accomplished so far in having at least 10 wins through 12 games for just the fifth time in team history, and first since 1991, when Buffalo was led by eventual Hall of Famers in coach Marv Levy and quarterback Jim Kelly. Buffalo has won seven straight since consecutive losses to Baltimore and Houston. And the Bills have scored 30 or more points in six straight outings, matching the team record set in 2004. Allen is doing more with less on an offense that was supposed to be hampered following the offseason departures of receivers Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis and center Mitch Morse. The Bills are more balanced in leaning on their running attack, while Allen has also curtailed his turnover-prone ways. He's lost two fumbles and thrown just five interceptions after being picked off a career-worst 18 times last season. Meantime, McDermott has taken a different approach to fourth down situations. The Bills have converted 13 of 15 fourth down attempts after going 9 of 16 last season and 7 of 13 in 2022. The most fourth down attempts during McDermott’s tenure came in 2021, when Buffalo converted just 11 of 22. This is but an example of the bond the quarterback and coach have built in a shared objective of overcoming past playoff failures. Clinching a division title is but one step, with the Bills now focused on catching the Kansas City Chiefs (11-1), whom they’ve beaten already , for the AFC’s top seed. In calling it the team’s next goal, McDermott went off script from his usual game-at-a-time message by noting the importance of celebrating a division-clinching win, if only for one day. “Being 50 years old and 20-plus years in this league, I’ve learned to try and enjoy the moments,” McDermott said. “And this is a moment, right?” It certainly was. Turnover differential. Buffalo’s defense forced three fumbles, including one at its goal line, while the offense didn’t commit a giveaway. The Bills upped their league-leading turnover differential entering Monday to plus-17. Run defense. Though the conditions were snowy and slick, the Bills allowed 119 yards rushing in the first half before the 49ers were forced to start passing the ball once the score became lopsided. Buffalo particularly struggled in stopping Christian McCaffrey, who had 53 yards on seven carries before leaving the game with a potential season-ending knee injury . LB Matt Milano was in on five tackles while playing 37 of 48 defensive snaps in his first outing in nearly 14 months after being sidelined by a broken right leg and torn left biceps. CB Kaiir Elam, the 2022 first-round pick was a healthy inactive for a second straight outing, and still having difficulty finding a regular role. None reported. 9-0 — The Bills' home record going back to last season, marking their second-longest run in team history. Hit the road for two outings, starting with a trip to face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nflSyria's Assad: the president who led a bloody crackdownOdisha to use satellite telemetry, underwater videography to study movement of Olive Ridleys
Cross-border shopping has become increasingly popular as more Hongkongers head north for better value for money. While the lower price tags for many goods and services on the mainland appeal to consumers, there is every reason to resist when it comes to fresh produce and uncooked food. During the first eight months of this year, the number of illegal imports of food items at land border checkpoints had already reached 1,324, surpassing the total of 1,019 cases for the whole of last year. The majority involved raw meat, up from 467 cases last year to 817 cases by August this year. There were 374 caught with uncertified eggs, more than triple the 118 intercepted over the whole of last year, according to the Customs and Excise Department. There is arguably nothing wrong with consumers opting for cheaper prices elsewhere. But to do so at the expense of the law is unacceptable. There are reasons why the import of raw food is under strict control. Some countries are known for their zero tolerance and stiff penalties against unauthorised import of fresh produce and food products. The tough regime serves to protect food safety and avoid spreading plant pests and animal diseases. In Hong Kong, anyone importing “game, meat, poultry and eggs” must have a health certificate from the place of origin or written consent from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department. Failing to do so can lead to a fine of up to HK$50,000 and up to six months in jail.
The Golden State Valkyries have selected Kate Martin and Kayla Thornton in their expansion draft, per Sabreena Merchant and Marcus Thompson II of the Athletic . The Las Vegas Aces rookie and New York Liberty veteran will both be headed to the Bay as part of the inaugural team on the WNBA’s 15th team. Neither selection comes as a massive shock. SB Nation’s official expansion draft predictions had Golden State selecting Kayla Thornton. The versatile veteran is a proven playoff contributor and a reliable shooter, but the Liberty had to protect Nyara Sabally after her postseason surge. Kate Martin could have easily been on the protected list, but the Aces went in a different direction, ultimately leaving her unprotected. Martin didn’t play much in her rookie season once the Aces rotation was whole, but she showed flashes of potential during the season. Related Martin appeared in 34 games, averaging 2.6 points in 11.5 minutes a night. Her teammates were impressed by her quick instincts and how quickly she adjusted to life as a professional. “Kate Martin is awesome. Kate Martin picks up things so quickly, she’s an amazing sponge,” Kelsey Plum said in May. “I think Becky nicknamed her Kate ‘Money’ Martin. I think that’s gonna stick.” Martin fell out of the rotation in the second half of the season, her minutes taking a dip after Chelsea Gray returned from her early-season absence. While she was a fan favorite in Las Vegas — and was regularly lauded for her effort and seamless integration — she ultimately wasn’t one of the Aces’ rotation players when they were whole. Related Ultimately, her fit in Golden State makes perfect sense for a couple of reasons: Kate Martin’s developmental timeline likely aligns better with Golden State The Aces are a veteran team, and their championship window is now. Three-time MVP A’ja Wilson is in her prime at 28 years old, while several of the Aces’ rotation players from 2024 are in the latter portion of their careers, including Tiffany Hayes (35), Sydney Colson (35), and Kelsey Plum (30). It’s not that the team’s championship window is closing — but if the Aces were between protecting a more veteran player and Martin, it’s understandable why they opted to let one of their intriguing young pieces walk. Though she was often praised for her emotional maturity, Martin is still fresh off of her rookie season. Like most WNBA players, it will probably be a few years until she is a reliable playoff contributor. The Valkyries’ roster will likely be younger than the Aces’, and Martin’s developmental timeline will align with theirs. Natalie Nakase will make the transition particularly seamless The Golden State Valkyries’ head coach, Natalie Nakase, already had a close relationship with Martin. Nakase was one of Becky Hammon’s lead assistants in Las Vegas this past season, and her experiences working with the 2024 No. 18 overall pick likely played a part in the franchise's decision to select her. For Martin, having to change franchises after a single season is an unusual situation, but having a familiar face in her new city will make the transition less tumultuous. Kate Martin’s popularity will help the Valkyries generate buzz There’s plenty of buzz around the Valkyries already, but the Iowa star joining the squad will help generate even more. Kate Martin sold the 4th-most jerseys of any WNBA player this season, and she will undoubtedly be one of the most well-known names on the Valkyries roster right off the bat. What better way to start a new organization than with one of the most popular players in the league?It seems to be yet another sign that hybrids are leading the charge forward as sales of electric vehicles (EVs) slow. Giant auto group Stellantis is reshuffling the planned launches of two much-awaited Ram models. The brand’s first electric pickup truck has been postponed to 2026, while the Ramcharger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will take center stage next year. “The decision to launch Ramcharger first was driven by overwhelming consumer interest, maintaining a competitive advantage in the technology and slowing industry demand for half-ton (battery EV) pickups,” Stellantis says in a statement. Orders for the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger will open in the first half of 2025. Sales of hybrids powered gains in overall EV sales in the third quarter, reaching a record 10.8% of U.S. light-duty vehicle sales. And hybrids are now considered to be as reliable as gas-powered vehicles, according to a Consumer Reports survey . They also offer a more affordable option than purely electric vehicles while freeing drivers from having to worry about finding available chargers. Meanwhile, consumer hesitations over EV charging and lifestyle changes explain why RAM delayed the launch of its all-electric pickup truck, seen as a potential rival to Tesla’s Cybertruck and the Ford F-150 Lightning, to 2026. As for the new Ramcharger, it promises innovations, even in the realm of plug-in hybrids. It’s basically an EV with an electric range of 145 miles, but its gas generator extends the range up to 690 miles. It features a 92-kilowatt-hour battery pack, paired with an onboard 130 kW generator, sending power to 250 kW front and 238 kW rear electric drive modules (EDMs). The new Ramcharger also allows vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-home bidirectional charging, giving it the flexibility to charge another Stellantis battery EV or provide power back to the grid.Karnataka has a rapidly growing corrugated packaging industry and with a market size of approximately ₹50,000 crore annually and a growth rate of 10-12%, India’s corrugated box manufacturing sector is poised to continue its upward trajectory for the next 5 to 10 years, said industry players. Corrugated cartons are made up of a few layers of material rather than just a single sheet like cardboard. Defence Economist and Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, Abhijit Iyer-Mitra, who spoke at the 52nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition of the Federation of Corrugated Box Manufacturers (FCBM) held in Bengaluru highlighted the significant role of the sector in driving sustainability, efficiency, and innovation across various industries, including food and beverage, e-commerce, and more. The event saw participation from leading industry experts, manufacturers, and policy makers, who discussed the key drivers and future trends shaping the industry. FCBM is the apex body of India’s corrugated packaging industry with a membership of over 2000 corrugated box manufacturers. According to industry experts who spoke at the event, India has over 600 automated plants and another 7,000 semi-automatic plants in the corrugated box manufacturing space. The industry employs over half a million people and processes about 2 million tons of kraft paper annually into corrugated boxes. Dharmendra V. Pandya, President of FCBM said, the corrugated box industry in the country was witnessing unparalleled growth, driven by strong demand in key sectors and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The global corrugated packaging Industry is estimated to be at $300 billion and is growing at a CAGR of 4.3% fueled by expansion of e-commerce consumer preference for biodegradable packaging and innovations in lightweight materials. The Indian packaging industry is estimated to grow at 22 to 25% annually and the corrugated packaging Industry is expected to grow at 10-12%. ‘’As we look ahead, we anticipate significant shifts toward larger automatic plants and advanced machinery, which will not only enhance productivity but also meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses alike,’‘ added Pandya. Some of the key factors fuelling the growth of the industry include the increasing demand for packaging solutions in the food and beverage industry, the rapid rise of e-commerce, and favorable government initiatives aimed at boosting manufacturing capabilities and sustainability. Published - December 21, 2024 10:18 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit