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TOYOTA MOBILITY SERVICES CO., LTD. Debuts Clear Displays with Built-in Translation Features to Assist Foreign Visitors

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TOKYO, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — TOYOTA MOBILITY SERVICES CO., LTD. (TMS) announced today that it will introduce the VoiceBiz®UCDisplay® color version, a transparent display with translation capabilities developed by TOPPAN Corporation. This marks the first use of the technology in Japan, aiming to meet the growing demand for rental cars among inbound foreign visitors. This new display is scheduled for release this fall at three rental car locations in Tokyo.

In recent years, the demand for rental cars has grown rapidly with the rise in inbound tourism. However, rental car locations have struggled to manage vehicle rentals and inquiries across multiple languages effectively.

To address these challenges, TMS is introducing a translation-enabled transparent display to facilitate accurate and timely communication, aiming to provide smooth, comfortable, and high-quality services.

About the “VoiceBiz® UCDisplay®” Clear Interface with Translation Features – Enhanced Color Model

The VoiceBiz®UCDisplay® is a transparent display with translation capabilities in up to 13 languages developed by TOPPAN Corporations. It enables seamless multilingual communication by automatically translating spoken or typed input into the recipient’s language and showing it on the screen. Both voice and keyboard input are available, allowing effective communication with individuals who are hard of hearing or have speech difficulties.

The system incorporates the latest translation algorithms and language models, with features to register proper nouns and pre-set phrases to improve translation accuracy.

When not in use for translation, the display serves as digital signage, providing various types of information. The enhanced color model, launching this fall, offers much better text visibility than the previous monochrome version. Additionally, the improved frame design makes the display easier to move and reposition.

The system supports 13 languages, including Japanese (keyboard input), English, Korean, Thai, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Burmese, and Tagalog.

Key Benefits of the New Model

1. Enhanced hospitality

Smooth service ensures customers feel comfortable by receiving assistance in their native language.
Friendly service is achieved by interacting with customers at their eye level, enhancing satisfaction.

2. Quicker response time

Accurate and fast translation reduces the time required to rent or deliver a vehicle.

3. Reduced workload

The system eases the workload often placed on staff with advanced English skills, promoting a more balanced distribution of tasks.

4. Prevention of infectious diseases

Provides effective protection for both customers and staff against infections.
The transparent display provides a non-contact communication tool for improved health safety.

*In July 2024, TMS conducted a demonstration of this display at its Haneda Airport (International Flights) Shops and other locations. The test received positive feedback from customers, confirming the benefits outlined above.

“Information Regarding the Store Where the Equipment Has Been Installed”

1. Haneda Airport (International Flights) Shop 1-15-11 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo 

2. Shinjuku 3-chome Station Shop 4-2-18 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 

3. Azumabashi Shop 3-8-2 Azumabashi, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 

Looking ahead, TMS will further strengthen multilingual support by expanding the use of the VoiceBiz®UCDisplay® and other initiatives. Through these efforts and the development of new services, TMS aims to continually enhance customer satisfaction.

 

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SOURCE TOYOTA MOBILITY SERVICES CO., LTD.

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Hong Kong Top 5 “Across-the-Border Hotpot”

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HONG KONG, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hotpot is a popular option in Hong Kong. In recent years, brands from mainland China, Singapore, and Taiwan have entered, providing diverse flavors. To highlight the most talked-about brands, DailyView analyzed online data from the past three months across Hong Kong and Macau, showcasing the top five popular hotpot spots.

Data Source: “DailyView Hong Kong” uses KEYPO.ai to track discussions across over 20,000 news websites, social media, forums, and blogs in Hong Kong and Macau, measuring popularity by the volume of posts and comments.

No.1 Rododo Hongkong (1,972 mentions)
This Taiwanese hotpot brand offers large portions and great value, becoming a favorite among Hong Kong diners. Known for hearty portions and high-quality meats like U.S. beef, Australian lamb, and Wagyu, it serves meat lovers with flair. Highlights include a birthday “meat cake” layered with various meats and a self-serve sauce bar to customize flavors. The unique features have made Rododo the most-discussed brand.
Customer feedback: “Perfect spot to satisfy a meat craving!”

No.2 Haidilao Hongkong  (1,620 mentions)
Haidilao is famous for its high-standard customer service, providing perks like free manicures, phone charging, and snacks while waiting. Specialty broths like spicy Sichuan, tomato, and mushroom cater to different tastes, and their noodle-pulling performance adds fun to the dining experience.
Customer feedback: “Enjoying five-star service while having hotpot!”

No.3 Beauty In The Pot (1,220 mentions)
From Singapore, Beauty In The Pot promotes a beauty-enhancing hotpot experience. Popular items include the collagen-boosting “Beauty Broth” and a range of health-oriented broths with ingredients from Sichuan, Taiwan, and Japan. The restaurant’s soft pink decor creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for friend gatherings or dates.
Customer feedback: “Healthy, beauty-boosting broths with no guilt!”

No.4 Coucou Hotpot‧ Tea Break (1,027 mentions)
CouCou attracts younger customers with innovative broths and special student discounts. Popular choices include spicy Sichuan and sauerkraut pork broths. The stylish decor and individual table lamps create a comfortable, private setting, making it a popular spot for couples and friends.
Customer feedback: “Can’t wait to have more hotpot here!”

No.5 Master Beef Hotpot (671 mentions)
Master Beef is renowned for its unlimited meat buffet, especially thinly sliced marbled beef that melts in your mouth. The self-service station offers a variety of fresh vegetables, tofu, and Taiwanese snacks, creating a satisfying experience for gatherings and casual meals.
Customer feedback: “Great choice for an all-you-can-eat beef feast!”

Analysis Notes:
The data for this analysis was using 《KEYPO Big Data Intelligence》, covering the period from July 14 to October 13, 2024. KEYPO, the AI-powered tool monitors over 10,000 websites monthly across Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, processing over 150 billion Chinese-language data points from Facebook, YouTube, Threads, TikTok, Instagram, news outlets, forums, and blogs. The ranking reflects the discussion volume and sentiment around each topic.

CONTACT: Brenda Chang, brenda.chang@big-data.com.tw

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/hong-kong-top-5-across-the-border-hotpot-302293802.html

SOURCE DailyView Hong Kong

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NUS launches BLOCK71 Nagoya to strengthen Japan-Southeast Asia innovation exchange

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BLOCK71 Nagoya will also be the gateway for Japanese start-ups to Southeast AsiaNUS partners ENEOS Holdings, Inc. to facilitate bilateral cooperation in growing innovation and enterprise ecosystems in both countries

NAGOYA, Japan, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — NUS Enterprise, the entrepreneurial arm of the National University of Singapore (NUS) has launched BLOCK71 Nagoya today, marking its operational opening for start-ups. BLOCK71 Nagoya aims to create a technology-focused ecosystem connecting Japan and Southeast Asia, providing Southeast Asian start-ups with essential support to navigate Japan’s cultural and business nuances for successful expansion. At the same time, it will support Japanese start-ups to grow and scale effectively in Southeast Asia.  

Nagoya is a key hub for technology start-ups looking to expand into Southeast Asia, backed by Aichi’s strength as Japan’s manufacturing powerhouse, which is home to leading companies in automotive, aviation, and robotics. These industries provide a strong foundation for technological growth and offer valuable collaboration opportunities with established corporations.

The opening of the centre was graced by His Excellency Hideaki Omura, the Governor of Aichi Prefecture, who was joined by Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President; Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President (Ecosystem Building), NUS Enterprise; Professor Naoshi Sugiyama, Nagoya University President; and Mr Hirotaka Sahashi, STATION Ai Corporation President and CEO.

BLOCK71 in Japan – a bridge between Southeast Asia and Japan

BLOCK71 is a technology-focused ecosystem builder and global connector that catalyses the start-up community. It has established itself as a leading force in global entrepreneurship, with offices spanning across Southeast Asia, the United States of America, China, and now Japan. As NUS’ first BLOCK71 location in Japan, the opening of the Nagoya office marks a significant addition to this network, representing a strategic move to promote market entry for Southeast Asian ventures (see Annexe A for background on BLOCK71).

Unlike other BLOCK71 global offices that focus on incubation, BLOCK71 in Japan prioritises market launch activities due to Japan’s mature and established start-up landscape. The Japanese offices will provide Japanese start-ups with the resources and networks to expand into Southeast Asia, while enabling Southeast Asian start-ups to establish a foothold in Japan.

Japan’s strong tradition of innovation presents immense opportunities for collaboration with Southeast Asia’s dynamic start-up ecosystems. BLOCK71 Nagoya will empower Japanese corporations and start-ups by connecting them to a broad network of Southeast Asian start-ups, investors, and industry leaders, fostering partnerships that drive innovative projects and facilitate market expansion. Similarly, Southeast Asian start-ups aiming to enter the Japanese market can benefit from BLOCK71 Nagoya to connect them with key stakeholders in the local innovation ecosystem.

“BLOCK71 Nagoya is not only a launchpad for Southeast Asian start-ups entering Japan, but also a gateway for Japanese start-ups looking to break into the diverse and rapidly growing Southeast Asian markets. By leveraging BLOCK71’s vast networks and experience, we aim to provide Japanese entrepreneurs with the tools, insights, and partnerships needed to navigate these emerging economies successfully,” said Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President.

BLOCK71 Nagoya will prioritise establishing key business milestones, including developing the Proof of Concept (PoC), fundraising, forging contracts, and integrating within BLOCK71’s extensive global network and quality start-up pool. Additionally, BLOCK71 in Japan will not only provide physical office spaces within their partners’ coworking space in key cities, but also deploy dedicated staff across the country to identify growth opportunities for start-ups by capitalising on Japan’s multifaceted market landscape.

Collaboration with ENEOS to enhance innovation

As part of its commitment to driving innovation, NUS Enterprise has established a strategic partnership with ENEOS Holdings, Inc. (ENEOS), one of the largest energy companies in Japan, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on 31 October 2024.  The MOU was signed by Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President and Mr Toru Naganuma, General Manager, Emerging Business Development Department, ENEOS.

The collaboration aims to enhance venture-building activities for NUS start-ups by providing them with exposure to real-world industry challenges. Together, both organisations will identify promising Southeast Asian start-ups and innovative solutions that can address critical industry issues. Key focus areas include mobility, decarbonisation, the circular economy, and artificial intelligence.

In addition, this partnership enables established corporations like ENEOS to maintain competitiveness through continuous innovation in an ever-evolving global economy. Start-ups, recognised for their agility and creativity, often experiment with cutting-edge technologies and business models that can drive corporate innovation. By partnering with start-ups, ENEOS can respond more swiftly to market changes, diversify its product offerings, and penetrate new markets and customer segments. For NUS start-ups, this partnership opens up opportunities to expand into the Japanese market by addressing real-world challenges posed by ENEOS. Additionally, participating start-ups will gain valuable insights into the operations of traditional Japanese companies, enhancing their understanding of this unique market.

“The partnership between NUS Enterprise and ENEOS Holdings will leverage the strengths of our extensive BLOCK71 ecosystem and network to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. This collaboration connects our start-ups with real-world industry challenges, enhancing their ability to develop solutions that meet the evolving needs of the energy sector. By integrating the capabilities of NUS Enterprise with ENEOS’ expertise, we aim to create a vibrant ecosystem where agility and creativity drive impactful advancements. Together, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of Southeast Asian start-ups that will shape the future of sustainable energy and technology,” added Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President.

“Collaborating with NUS Enterprise provides ENEOS with a unique opportunity to harness the dynamic energy of Southeast Asia’s start-up ecosystem. By engaging with innovative start-ups, we can gain fresh insights and co-create solutions that address the pressing challenges in our industry. This partnership will not only enhance our ability to adapt to market changes but also position us at the forefront of sustainable energy advancements. We are eager to work alongside these visionary entrepreneurs to drive meaningful progress in the energy sector,” said Mr Miyata Tomohide, Representative Director, CEO of ENEOS.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/nus-launches-block71-nagoya-to-strengthen-japan-southeast-asia-innovation-exchange-302293814.html

SOURCE NUS Enterprise

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Aker Horizons ASA: Third-quarter results 2024

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FORNEBU, Norway, Nov. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Aker Horizons ASA (OSE: AKH), a developer of green energy and industry, today announced results for the third quarter 2024. Aker Horizons’ net capital employed stood at NOK 6.1 billion, a decrease of NOK 1.0 billion from the second quarter, mainly driven by impairments in Mainstream. The company reported a cash position of NOK 3.0 billion and an undrawn credit facility of EUR 500 million, giving available liquidity of NOK 8.8 billion.

Third quarter main developments:

The JV between Aker Carbon Capture (ACC) and SLB was renamed SLB Capturi and announced its first US-based project:

SLB Capturi was awarded a FEED contract by CO280 Solutions for a large-scale carbon capture plant at a pulp and paper mill on the US Gulf Coast.The Board of Directors of ACC continues the process of determining the future strategy and structure of ACC and will communicate conclusions within Q1 2025.

Mainstream Renewable Power (Mainstream) is delivering on its pipeline in South Africa and focuses on business optimization:

The 50 MW solar project Ilikwa in South Africa reached financial close.The commercial margin of the Andes platform in Chile improved in Q3.Mainstream is streamlining its business to focus on growth in core markets South Africa, Australia and the Philippines, with continued investment in key offshore projects.

Aker Horizons Asset Development (AAD) completed a concept optimization for Narvik Green Ammonia; strong data center interest for sites in Northern Norway:

A concept optimization for the Narvik Green Ammonia project has been concluded with a decision to move the project to Lallasletta.An MoU was signed with Masdar to explore collaboration and investment opportunities in green hydrogen.Data center players are showing significant interest in Kvandal and other industrial sites in the Powered Land site portfolio.

SuperNode secured funding to advance superconducting transmission technology development:

Significant grants were secured from Irish and UK institutions to fund research & development.SuperNode opened a new Cable Technology Centre in Blyth, UK, enabling first production of superconducting cables for bulk electricity transmission

Lars P. Sørvaag Sperre, CEO of Aker Horizons, commented:

“We are pleased to see ACC and SLB Capturi reaching material milestones this quarter to enter the important US carbon capture market. Mainstream will now embark on a business plan that focuses on growth in selected core markets. This will enable Mainstream to speed up the development of projects. Furthermore, we have continued to develop and explore options for Aker Horizon’s green hydrogen projects and the Powered Land sites. It is really encouraging to see the strong interest from the data center industry around our activities in the Narvik area”.

Aker Horizons reports net capital employed to reflect a portfolio composed mainly of unlisted assets. Net capital employed includes Aker Horizons’ initial investment in the portfolio company, adjusted for any profit or loss and any additional investments, adjusted for foreign exchange fluctuations. As of the third quarter, Aker Horizons had NOK 2.4 billion net capital employed in ACC, NOK 2.8 billion in Mainstream, NOK 543 million in AAD, NOK 197 million in SuperNode and NOK 242 million in other assets.

The Q3 2024 presentation is attached.

Aker Horizons’ CEO Lars P. Sørvaag Sperre and CFO Kristoffer Dahlberg, and Mainstream’s CEO Mary Quaney will present the main developments in the third quarter 2024 today at 08:30 CEST, followed by a Q&A session. The presentation, which is open to all, will be held in English and will be webcast on Aker Horizons’ website:

https://akerhorizons.com/investors 

For further information, please contact:

Stian Andreassen, Investor Relations, tel: +47 41 64 31 07, email: stian.andreassen@akerhorizons.com 

Mats Ektvedt, Media, tel: +47 41 42 33 28, email: mats.ektvedt@corporatecommunications.no 

About Aker Horizons

Aker Horizons develops green energy and green industry to accelerate the transition to Net Zero. The company is active in renewable energy, carbon capture and hydrogen and develops industrial-scale decarbonization projects. As part of the Aker group, Aker Horizons applies industrial, technological and capital markets expertise with a planet-positive purpose to drive decarbonization globally. Aker Horizons is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange and headquartered in Fornebu, Norway. Across its portfolio, the company is present on five continents. www.akerhorizons.com 

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements in Regulation EU 596/2014 and the Norwegian Securities Trading Act § 5-12. This stock exchange announcement was published by Mats Ektvedt, Partner in Corporate Communications, on 1 November 2024 at 07:00 CET.

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/aker-horizons/r/aker-horizons-asa–third-quarter-results-2024,c4059993

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