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Kalmar has launched a second-generation lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery solution for its electric straddle carriers, marking a significant upgrade in energy performance, safety and operational efficiency

The new Gen 2 battery is designed to deliver higher energy capacity, improved thermal stability and longer operating hours, and is now available to customers worldwide.

Developed in response to increasing demand for safer, more efficient and sustainable cargo-handling equipment, the Gen 2 battery incorporates advanced cell chemistry that extends battery lifespan and reduces replacement frequency. This results in a lower total cost of ownership for customers, while also improving lifecycle sustainability compared with previous-generation technology.

The new battery offers a nominal capacity of 533 kWh, representing a 25% increase over its predecessor, with a usable capacity of 453 kWh. This enhanced capacity enables longer operating cycles and greater flexibility in charging strategies. Operators can combine scheduled depot charging during breaks with hands-free opportunity charging during operations, supporting hot-seat usage and continuous workflows. Depending on energy consumption, electric straddle carriers equipped with the Gen 2 battery can achieve up to 10 hours of net operating time.

Alongside the battery launch, Kalmar has also commissioned a megawatt charging system (MCS) at its test facility in Tampere, Finland, supporting faster and more efficient charging for high-capacity electric equipment.

“Gen 2 represents a major step forward in terms of battery energy capacity, safety and operational lifespan. With longer operating times and improved reliability, our customers can transition to fully electric fleets without compromising performance.”

The introduction of the Gen 2 battery reinforces Kalmar’s commitment to advancing electrification and decarbonisation in port and terminal operations, supporting customers as they move toward fully electric cargo-handling fleets.

Ariston Middle East is preparing to showcase its newest line-up of innovative, future-ready and sustainable water-heating solutions at Big 5 Global 2025, taking place from 24-28 November at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The company’s latest technologies will be featured in Hall 3, Stand 3A131, within the pavilion of regional distributor MAHY Khoory, reinforcing Ariston’s long-standing brand promise: “The Home of Sustainable Comfort.”

“The Big 5 Global stands as the construction industry's most important and influential gathering, firmly rooted in Dubai,” said Alberto Torner, Head of International Markets (AMEA) at Ariston Group. “Thermal comfort has historically placed a significant burden on electrical networks and contributed to CO₂ emissions. As a global specialist with a 95-year heritage and leadership in over 40 countries, it is our responsibility to guide the conversation around energy transition. At Big 5, we are proud to showcase three innovative solutions that highlight the sustainability-driven technology embedded across our range.”

Taking centre stage at the exhibition is one of Ariston’s advanced heat-pump water-heating systems, the Nuos FIT. This compact thermodynamic water heater extracts heat from the surrounding air to dramatically reduce electricity consumption, delivering up to 50 per cent energy savings compared to traditional electric models. Using the environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant, it performs effectively across a wide temperature range from +7 °C to +42 °C and can achieve storage temperatures of 62 °C without relying on a backup heater. Four operating modes — Green, Green Plus, Boost and i-Memory — along with smart remote control via the Ariston NET app, further enhance efficiency and convenience.

Ariston will also feature the Velis Tech WiFi, an electrical water heater engineered to reduce energy use without compromising performance. With an ultra-slim 27 centimetre depth and twin-tank configuration, it offers faster heating and increased hot-water availability. Its ECO EVO mode intelligently learns household patterns to deliver up to 25 per cent energy savings, while the Boost function heats both tanks rapidly to 80 °C. Wi-Fi connectivity allows users to manage scheduling, monitor consumption and adjust settings through the Ariston NET app.

Completing the line-up is the PRO1 Eco, introduced earlier this year in the UAE. Powered by the patented CoreTECH-enabled ECO EVO system, it analyses daily usage habits to heat water only when needed. This results in up to 14 per cent reduced energy consumption while ensuring continuous comfort, making it well suited to sustainability-focused homes.

“We remain committed to leading the market through continuous innovation and product excellence,” Alberto Torner, Head of International Markets (AMEA) at Ariston Group concluded. “With 45 years of strong presence in the GCC, our comprehensive portfolio is perfectly aligned with the region’s sustainability goals. We invite all attendees of Big 5 Global 2025 to visit us in Hall 3 and experience our next-generation water-heating technologies firsthand.”

Flowciti Group has announced its launch as a holding company focused on smart city solutions, bringing together technology, operational delivery and user experience within a fully integrated ecosystem. The group aims to support urban transformation and the development of smarter, more connected cities across the region.

Operating across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the UAE, Flowciti is targeting a qualitative shift in how people interact with urban environments. Through integrated, end-to-end solutions, the group seeks to create long-term value for the real estate sector, businesses and public institutions.

Flowciti Group brings together four specialised companies under a single ecosystem. ParkPoint provides an integrated platform for parking management and urban mobility. Rokket delivers advanced system integration and service automation solutions for smart cities, real estate and infrastructure. YooPlatform offers a modular suite of digital tools covering access management, payments, entitlements and user experience, while Viritti provides complementary services that support and extend the wider ecosystem.

Working collectively, the companies deliver holistic urban solutions that combine technology, operations and service delivery, enabling scalable and measurable impact at city level. Through this model, Flowciti offers advanced systems, digital platforms and managed services spanning parking, mobility, access management and urban experiences, contributing to service digitalisation and improved user engagement across urban environments.

Founder and chief executive officer Omar Al Khan said the launch of Flowciti Group is driven by a clear vision to create smarter, more connected cities through the seamless integration of technology, operational excellence and user experience.

“Through our companies, we deliver integrated solutions that redefine urban experiences, accelerate service digitalisation and generate tangible value for communities, businesses and institutions. Our objective is to support the development of future-ready cities across the region,” Al Khan said.

As the group’s holding and management entity, Flowciti provides strategic direction, governance and centralised functions such as operational planning and shared infrastructure. Each subsidiary retains operational independence, ensuring alignment, integration and synergy across the group’s activities.

The launch reflects a growing regional shift towards comprehensive urban solutions that move beyond fragmented technology offerings. By integrating operations, technology and user experience within a single ecosystem, Flowciti aims to enhance operational efficiency, sustainability and user experience across residential, commercial, hospitality and mixed-use developments.

Ivanhoe Mines has formalised a new partnership framework with Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) following the sovereign fund’s recent US$500mn strategic investment in the company.

The MoU was concluded during the visit of His Highness The Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). During his trip, the Amir held discussions with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi on strengthening ties between the two nations, creating the backdrop for the Ivanhoe–QIA agreement.

Under the terms of the MoU, Ivanhoe Mines and QIA have established a broad framework intended to support the discovery, responsible development and long-term supply of critical minerals required for global decarbonisation and next-generation technologies.

Commenting on the agreement, Robert Friedland said, “The signing of the MoU, together with the strategic investment by the Qatar Investment Authority, is a strong vote of confidence in Ivanhoe Mines and our mission to supply the strategic metals that power global electrification and the rise of AI and large-scale datacentres. We are excited to build this long-term, world-class alliance as we unlock new frontiers in our hunt for the next generation of great discoveries, which we will sustainably mine together.”

QIA CEO Mohammed Saif Al-Sowaidi added, “This MoU is a testament of QIA’s commitment to building strategic partnerships with leading suppliers of critical minerals, supporting global efforts to develop new energy infrastructure and power advanced technologies. We are delighted to be working with Ivanhoe Mines and look forward to further growing our partnership, aimed at generating long-term, sustainable prosperity.”

The cooperation framework specifically recognises QIA’s support for Ivanhoe’s ongoing exploration and development pipeline, including the company’s substantial activities at the Western Forelands project in the DRC, where work continues to advance the Makoko District and other promising targets.

Both parties also intend to explore additional joint opportunities across regions of shared interest, covering mining ventures at various stages of development. Potential areas of collaboration include investment or financing agreements, access to QIA’s network of financial institutions for favourable funding of critical minerals projects, and joint consideration of future strategic mergers and acquisitions.

The MoU further sets out avenues for cooperation on enabling infrastructure—such as logistics, energy and water systems—as well as possible downstream initiatives, including smelting and refining capacity for critical minerals in Africa and other global jurisdictions.

From 1 January 2026, the UAE will expand its restrictions on single-use plastics, banning plastic beverage cups, lids, cutlery, food containers and straws when manufactured from conventional plastic materials.

The move forms part of the country’s wider environmental policy framework aimed at reducing pollution and limiting the long-term environmental impact of disposable products. According to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), products made from plant-based Polylactic Acid (PLA) are recognised as viable alternatives and are excluded from the ban.

The measures stem from Ministerial Decision No. 380 of 2022, which regulates single-use products across the UAE and prohibits the import, production and distribution of specified plastic items. Earlier phases of the regulation already introduced bans on products such as plastic straws, stirrers and single-use shopping bags.

The scope of the regulation will broaden to include additional items such as beverage cups, lids, forks, spoons, chop sticks and food containers when made from plastic. The expanded ban reflects the UAE’s commitment to addressing plastic pollution while encouraging the adoption of more sustainable material alternatives.

PLA applications

PLA, a plant-based material that is compostable and biodegradable, remains exempt from the regulation. Derived from renewable resources, PLA is widely used in applications where hygiene, safety and convenience are essential. Its suitability for both cold and hot drink cups, food containers, straws and cutlery positions it as a practical alternative for sectors such as food service, hospitality and events, where single-use items are still sometimes necessary.

François de Bie, Emirates Biotech CCO, stated that “it’s best to stop using single use products as much as possible and consider reuseable alternatives. But in those cases where reuseable alternatives are not available it is important to recognise that PLA, being a plant-based material, falls outside the scope of the prohibited materials. PLA, like paper, wood and recycled plastics is exempted.” His comments underline the regulatory distinction being made between conventional plastics and materials derived from renewable sources.

Valentina Olabi, Public Affairs Manager of Emirates Biotech, added, “PLA will play a critical role in advancing landfill diversion and circular economy targets. The decision demonstrates constructive collaboration between government, industry and environmental stakeholders. We welcome this recognition of PLA as a practical enabler of the UAE’s sustainability agenda.”

As the UAE continues to strengthen its environmental regulations, the recognition of PLA provides clarity for manufacturers, importers and end users navigating the transition away from conventional plastics. Emirates Biotech has reiterated its commitment to supporting local businesses as they adapt to the new requirements, helping ensure a smooth shift towards compliant, plant-based alternatives that align with the country’s broader sustainability goals.

At the 2025 Dubai Airshow, Emirates SkyCargo and Abu Dhabi-based LODD Autonomous signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the development and deployment of next-generation air cargo solutions

The MoU was formalised by Badr Abbas, divisional senior vice-president, Emirates SkyCargo, and Rashid Al Manai, CEO, LODD Autonomous.

Under the agreement, the two companies will validate the use of VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft across Emirates SkyCargo’s global network. Activities include feasibility studies, regulatory engagement, and live demonstrations. Leveraging four decades of logistics expertise, Emirates SkyCargo will participate in LODD’s experimental operations through 2027, providing insight to guide design and development toward potential commercial deployment in regional and global markets.

The collaboration follows LODD’s successful first test flight of Hili, a fully autonomous hybrid heavy-lift cargo aircraft capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms over distances of 700 km. Emirates SkyCargo is evaluating Hili for integration into its ground fleet to optimise operations across its dual airport hub.

“This partnership with LODD is a reflection of our commitment to introduce innovative products that solve our customer’s transportation challenges. Emerging technologies will form the foundation of the next era of logistics, and Emirates SkyCargo will be at the forefront of this movement, investing our experience and expertise into the development of innovations that drive tangible impact. We look forward to collaborating with LODD to explore the potential development and deployment of this UAE-built technology,” stated Badr Abbas.

Rashid Mattar Al Manai added, “The UAE’s vision is built on harnessing innovation to propel everyday life forward. Our collaboration with Emirates SkyCargo blends LODD Autonomous’s frontier technologies with the country’s enduring commitment to safe, scalable, and sustainable logistics. Together, we will accelerate the adoption of drone-powered solutions that expand reach, cut delivery times, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub while upholding the highest standards of safety and regulatory excellence.”

Emirates SkyCargo has long prioritised advancing the logistics ecosystem. Operating to over 150 destinations with a widebody fleet exceeding 260 aircraft, the airline has consistently set new benchmarks in global logistics. Earlier this year, it launched Emirates Courier Express, a door-to-door delivery service that merges its cargo division’s logistics expertise with the passenger fleet network.

LODD is transforming civilian logistics through state-of-the-art unmanned and autonomous aerial vehicles and AI-enabled software that simplify operations, reduce costs, improve sustainability, and accelerate deliveries. Supported by the Advanced Technology Research Council, Hili exemplifies the UAE’s national commitment to investing in technology ecosystems—from strategy and research to real-world application.