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TIER IV secures additional $54 Million in Series B funding: Deploying Level 4 autonomous driving systems across Japan

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TOKYO, June 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TIER IV, a pioneer in open-source software for autonomous driving systems, proudly announces the successful extension of its Series B funding round, securing an additional US$54 million (¥8.5 billion). This brings the total Series B funding to US$132 million (¥20.7 billion) and the company’s overall funding to US$243 million (¥38.1 billion).

Background

During the Series A round, TIER IV expanded beyond developing the open-source software Autoware* to commercialize comprehensive software platforms that encompass communication, insurance, and risk management features for autonomous driving systems. The Series B round has further enhanced our software development capabilities, particularly in advocating the concept of reference designs. TIER IV was also selected for the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization’s (NEDO) Green Innovation Fund Project, participating in a substantial US$162 million (¥25.4 billion) R&D initiative aimed at introducing scalability to autonomous driving systems.

Purpose of the funding

The latest funds are earmarked for launching the production of Level 4 autonomous driving systems, leveraging TIER IV’s advanced software platforms and reference designs. The funds will also boost our efforts to develop safety assessment methods that tightly integrate processes and tools.

TIER IV has been selected for a NEDO program to support tech startups, with a focus on advancing electrification modules applicable to various vehicle models, which tackles grand challenges for hardware disparity, software quality, and system dependability from fiscal 2023 to 2025. Furthermore, we have been selected for the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) Phase 3 funding, underscoring our commitment to establishing a robust Level 4 certification framework from fiscal 2024 to 2027.

These strategic initiatives align with the Japanese government’s objective to deploy Level 4 autonomous driving systems in 50 locations by 2025 and over 100 by 2027, which aims to improve mobility services nationwide.

Key business areas

From Series A to Series B, TIER IV has significantly advanced its software platforms, with an emphasis on vehicle models and safety assessment methods for Level 4 autonomous driving systems. In collaboration with global partners, we are ready for full-scale commercialization, both in Japan and worldwide. Our main applications include mobility services such as route buses and urban taxis, as well as logistics services encompassing intra-factory transportation and highway trucks, all within a Level 4 regulatory framework.

Future outlook

TIER IV is set to further develop new vehicle models and open safety assessment methods, spearheading the deployment of enhanced mobility and logistics services powered by Level 4 autonomous driving systems. Building on our current reference designs for route buses and urban taxis, we plan to create a new reference design for privately-owned passenger vehicles, which introduces state-of-the-art technologies to the automotive industry. Going forward, TIER IV will focus on developing electric and electronic architectures (EEA) optimized for software-defined vehicles (SDV), along with a new generative world model tailored for end-to-end autonomy.

TIER IV remains committed to harnessing its expertise in software development, vehicle manufacturing, and safety assessment to foster the deployment of Level 4 autonomous driving systems across various environments.

*Autoware is a registered trademark of The Autoware Foundation.

About TIER IV

TIER IV stands at the forefront of deep tech innovation, pioneering Autoware, the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving, to empower intelligent vehicles worldwide. Harnessing Autoware, we build scalable platforms and deliver comprehensive solutions across software development, vehicle manufacturing, and service operations. As a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, our commitment to open-source software enables individuals and organizations to thrive within the evolving technology for autonomous driving, reshaping the future of intelligent vehicles.

Media Contact
pr@tier4.jp

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SOURCE Tier IV, Inc.

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KLA Invests in Operations in Wales with the Opening of a $138 Million R&D and Manufacturing Facility

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New complex builds on decades of SPTS Technologies’ semiconductor equipment innovation

MILPITAS, Calif., May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — KLA Corporation (NASDAQ: KLAC), a global leader in semiconductor process control and process-enabling technology, today announced the opening of its new $138 million research and development (R&D) and manufacturing center in Newport, Wales, U.K., continuing the company’s history of regional investment. SPTS, KLA’s Wales-based product division, has been leading semiconductor equipment innovation in Wales since 1984, winning multiple Queen’s Awards for excellence in R&D and export, and attracting strong technical talent to the region.

KLA added the SPTS etch and deposition product lines to its portfolio in 2019, bringing complementary technologies, solutions and services together, and increasing the company’s capacity to deliver for customers across the semiconductor industry. Reflecting the portfolio strength and growing customer demand, the new 237,000-square-foot Newport facility provides additional production and customer collaboration spaces, including 25,000 square feet of R&D clean rooms, 35,000 square feet of state-of-the-art manufacturing space and tool demo areas, all designed to support development of semiconductor process technologies across advanced packaging, power devices, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), radio frequency (RF) and photonics sector technology.

“KLA brings together expertise in process and process control, providing customers with the breadth and depth they need to innovate and improve device performance,” said Dan Collins, site leader and general manager at KLA. “As industry drivers like AI increase demand for advanced chips, our expansion in Wales and strong product portfolio position us to meet that demand—building on our rich history and investing in new technology, talent and long-term community partnerships.”

With capacity for 750 employees, KLA’s new facility is expected to support the continued growth of the electronics ecosystem, serving as a center of engineering and manufacturing excellence, as well as an anchor for the larger community.

“We have a globally renowned compound semiconductor cluster here in Wales and the U.K. Government recognizes that this industry is a key driver for economic growth, and the U.K. Government has recently announced nearly £5 million to help build the talent pipeline,” Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens explained. “KLA’s investment in this new facility further strengthens our position as a leader in this vital and growing industry. Today’s announcement is a celebration of KLA’s commitment to innovation and to Wales as a growing hub of technological excellence and leadership.”

To learn more about KLA’s latest advancements and investments, please visit www.kla.com.

About KLA: 
KLA Corporation (“KLA”) develops industry-leading equipment and services that enable innovation throughout the electronics industry. We provide advanced process control and process-enabling solutions for manufacturing wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging and printed circuit boards. In close collaboration with leading customers across the globe, our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers design solutions that move the world forward. Investors and others should note that KLA announces material financial information including SEC filings, press releases, public earnings calls and conference webcasts using an investor relations website (ir.kla.com). Additional information may be found at: www.kla.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kla-invests-in-operations-in-wales-with-the-opening-of-a-138-million-rd-and-manufacturing-facility-302462483.html

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HUB INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES CROSS-INDUSTRY HUB SUPPLY CHAIN AI RISK SOLUTIONS

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Integrated Data and Tracking and Enhanced AI Technology, and Stock Throughput Insurance Offering for Supply Chain Optimization

CHICAGO, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hub International Limited (HUB), a leading global insurance brokerage and financial services firm, announced today the launch of HUB Supply Chain AI Risk Solutions, a new product that offers integrated data and tracking, supply chain AI and stock throughput insurance to better safeguard raw materials and finished products throughout the supply chain. The solution is available for industries including agribusiness, forestry, food manufacturing, transportation, warehousing, manufacturing, high tech, marine and healthcare/life sciences.

“By using HUB Supply Chain AI Risk Solutions, our clients have a faster, streamlined approach to managing supply chain risks and dynamic inventory replenishment,” said Joshua Smart, North American Agribusiness & Food Practice Leader at HUB International. “Companies that have the capability to view, track and proactively respond to disruptions in the supply chain have a leading edge over their competitors.”

A supply chain is the lifeline for many organizations, yet there are many risks, including disruptions to inventory management and transportation logistics, as well as challenges in sourcing, manufacturing and delivering final products. HUB Supply Chain AI Risk Solutions offers an approach to manage supply chain risk, minimize disruptions and help organizations obtain the best insurance rates and coverage. The product includes the following components, which are available separately or can be combined:

Integrated data and tracking by seamlessly sharing data from technology components such as GPS tracking and temperature control systems to help lower stock throughput insurance rates and total cost of risk. AI-enabled technology, powered by Throughput AI, gives an accurate view of inventory valuation from manufacturing through final delivery, providing real-time insurance pricing based on current value, lower deductibles and profit-sharing capabilities.

Enhanced AI technology allows organizations to optimize inventory management and takes the guesswork out of demand planning. Throughput AI provides real-time supply dynamics with point-of-sale data for demand sensing and intelligent inventory replenishment. 

Stock throughput insurance provides end-to-end risk coverage for inventory from sourcing raw materials, through the manufacturing process and until the finished product has reached its destination. Unlike standard cargo coverage, stock throughput insurance provides coverage for inventory under one policy, even when products are in storage or in the production process.

For more information on HUB Supply Chain AI Risk Solutions, click here.

About Hub International
Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Hub International Limited is a leading full-service global insurance broker and financial services firm providing risk management, insurance, employee benefits, retirement and wealth management products and services. With more than 19,000 employees in offices located throughout North America, Hub’s vast network of specialists brings clarity to a changing world with tailored solutions and unrelenting advocacy, so clients are ready for tomorrow. For more information, visit HUB Media Center.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Marni Gordon
Phone: 312-279-4601
Marni.gordon@hubinternational.com

Jessica Wiltse
Phone: 312-596-7573
jessica.wiltse@hubinternational.com

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SOURCE Hub International Limited

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Learn How AI and AR Are Transforming Fashion at Hartmann Capital’s Upcoming Frontier Forum with DRESSX

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Webinar brings together investors, founders, and futurists to unpack the next wave of digital fashion, AI, and virtual identity

MIAMI, May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the lines between physical and digital fashion continue to blur, Hartmann Capital and DRESSX are set to host a timely webinar exploring the rise of wearable augmented reality, digital identity, and the future of AI-powered fashion.

The virtual event, titled “The Future of Fashion is Digital,” is part of Hartmann Capital’s Frontier Forum series, featuring conversations at the cutting edge of technology and culture. The session will feature Daria Shapovalova and Natalia Modenova, co-founders of DRESSX—the world’s largest digital-only fashion platform—alongside Felix Hartmann, Managing Partner of Hartmann Capital, which invests in frontier technology sectors including AI, XR, and spatial computing.

“Generation Alpha and Z shape and express much of their identity online, with fashion remaining a primary conduit for self-expression and culture. What once were physical garments have now evolved into digital avatar fashion on platforms like Roblox and Snap.” said Felix Hartmann. “DRESSX is at the forefront of that evolution, and this webinar is an opportunity to unpack the business, tech, and cultural trends driving it forward.”

Founded in 2020, DRESSX has pioneered the concept of wearing fashion virtually through AR, avatars, and photo-realistic try-ons—partnering with global fashion houses, launching in-app marketplaces, and recently collaborating with platforms like Meta, Roblox, and Google.

The conversation will dive into:

The economics and sustainability of digital fashionHow Generative AI is transforming design, marketing, and personalizationThe expanding role of AR in everyday expressionWhat’s next for creators, collectors, and consumers in digital fashion

WHEN: May 28th 2025 at 12pm ET
WHERE: Online – Free with registration
Register now: hartmanncapital.com/frontierforum

About Hartmann Capital

Hartmann Capital is a frontier tech investment firm specializing in Spatial Computing, Artificial Intelligence, and the emerging 3D Creator Economy. Through its Frontier Forum and early-stage funds, Hartmann supports founders building the future of immersive technology, gaming, and digital platforms.

About DRESSX

DRESSX is a global leader in avatar fashion and AI styling technologies, with over 75M+ assets distributed across various digital platforms. It is a female-led, female founded fashion-tech company. DRESSX was named one of the finalists of LVMH Innovation Award 2022 in the category 3D/Virtual Product Experience & Metaverse.

Media Contact:
David Linden
david@hartmanncapital.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/learn-how-ai-and-ar-are-transforming-fashion-at-hartmann-capitals-upcoming-frontier-forum-with-dressx-302461334.html

SOURCE Hartmann Capital

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