This commercial partnership with ZF will bolster IVECO BUS’s broader electrification strategy. (Image source: IVECO)

IVECO BUS, the urban, intercity, and tourist bus brand of Iveco Group, and ZF, a global technology leader supplying advanced mobility products and systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and industrial technology, have taken the international stage at IAA Transportation in Hannover, Germany, to advance their collaboration on innovative e-mobility solutions aimed at decarbonising passenger transport.

Sustainability

Both IVECO BUS and ZF are committed to transforming the transport sector and driving the transition to a more sustainable future. They combine strong technological expertise in alternative energy propulsion solutions, such as electrification. This commercial partnership with ZF will bolster IVECO BUS’s broader electrification strategy and support the development of a new, zero-emission architecture that will equip the next generation of vehicles, complementing their existing technological capabilities.

“This new partnership demonstrates our commitment to collaborating with innovative players who are driven to push the boundaries of technological innovation in support of the energy transition," commented Domenico Nucera, president of the Bus Business Unit, Iveco Group. "Electrification is an essential enabler for achieving the decarbonisation objectives of the bus industry. By enhancing our collaboration with ZF, a global technology leader in advanced mobility products and systems, we will accelerate the development of the next generation of our e-mobility solutions.”

“This next step in our relationship with IVECO BUS focusing on our innovative e-mobility solutions underlines how our strategic investments in decarbonisation technologies are paying off," said Prof. Dr. Peter Laier, member of the ZF Board of Management and responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Solutions division. "We are honoured by the trust that IVECO BUS has placed in us as a partner for the strategic development of e-mobility solutions. We look forward to further deepening our relationship as we work together to deliver more sustainable passenger transport solutions.”

His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, the President of GACA, at the first-ever air taxi trial in Mecca - Saudi Arabia, in June 2024. (Image source: GACA)

During his keynote address at the inaugural Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium hosted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), urged global cooperation to usher in a new era of aviation. He called on nations to unite in supporting the accelerated and safe deployment of AAM, aligning with the symposium’s Call to Action.

Saudi Arabia was chosen to deliver the opening keynote to aviation leaders from over 75 countries at the event in Montreal, ICAO's headquarters. As Chair of the Arab Civil Aviation Organisation (ACAO), Al-Duailej emphasised the need for regulators to work together to seamlessly integrate AAM into the global aviation system.

“This gathering is not just another milestone; it is a beacon lighting the path toward a new era in aviation. Saudi Arabia is dedicated to building a future where Advanced Air Mobility is a cornerstone of global connectivity and economic growth. Let us rise to the challenge, let us redefine the future of aviation, and let us do it together. Only through such cooperation can we fully unlock the potential of this sector.”

He also highlighted the immense global opportunity that AAM presents and its crucial role in promoting a sustainable future.

Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a leader in AAM development, having released an AAM roadmap earlier this year and conducted air taxi trials in NEOM and Makkah during the Hajj pilgrimage.

At the symposium, ICAO recognised Saudi Arabia’s potential in AAM by awarding KAUST students the top prize in the ICAO Global AAM Academic Paper Competition. This recognition reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to cutting-edge research and complements its investments in eVTOL aircraft, aligning with its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2060.

Additionally, GACA held bilateral meetings with various aviation authorities and organisations, including the ICAO President, KAUST, and Embry-Riddle’s President P. Barry Butler, to strengthen international partnerships.

On the sidelines of the event, which ran from 8-12 September, a high-level Saudi delegation visited BETA Technologies’ facility in Vermont, USA, where they explored the latest advancements in AAM manufacturing and exchanged expertise in sustainable aviation.

Cat Lift Trucks quality is now within reach of more users and applications, thanks to the new entry-level EQ line.

Specified for lighter duties and smaller jobs, these warehouse trucks have everything you need for dependable materials handling. That includes sturdy construction, simple maintenance, energy-efficient features, robust performance, user-friendly design, and safety.

The EQ line covers eight key warehouse product ranges. Each benefits from the productivity, efficiency and long-term cost-saving advantages of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology. Power levels are higher and more consistent; runtimes are longer; no battery maintenance is needed; and lifespan is extended. In addition, opportunity charging can keep the trucks going without battery changes.

^{The EQ Line full range}

Power pallet trucks

First up in the EQ line are the mini power pallet trucks, NPP15-20QBL. These are great all-rounders, combining small size with impressive strength and resilience. They can transport loads up to 2.0 tonnes, but they’re compact enough to work anywhere. You can manoeuvre them easily in narrow aisles, containers, goods vehicles and small buildings.

More conventionally shaped pedestrian power pallet trucks are offered with capacities of 1.8 tonnes (NPP18QL) and 2.0 tonnes (NPP20QL). They’re compact and easy to handle, with an ergonomic tiller arm, high-quality forks and a smoothly controlled AC drive motor. Robustly built, they will give many years of trouble-free service.

A 2.0 tonne platform power pallet truck, NPV20QL, builds on the same features and capabilities. Its platform can be easily folded up for pedestrian use in the narrowest spaces. Ride-on mode enables faster travel over longer distances, with less operator fatigue. This versatile model is ideal for vehicle loading and unloading as well as transport.

^{The new range has been developed specifically for lighter duties and smaller jobs}

Compact stackers

For exceptional versatility in a small package, the EQ line offers a choice of compact pedestrian stackers. These are even small enough to take into vans and elevators. The 1.2 tonne mono mast version, NSP12QLMI, will stack and retrieve at heights up to 1.95 metres. The 1.2 tonne duplex mast model, NSP12QLDI, extends this to 3.3 metres. You can also use them for short shuttle runs and order picking. They’re a great do-it-all solution for smaller warehouses and supermarkets.

Sit-on tow trucks

The EQ line’s sit-on tow trucks, NTS30-60Q, offer capacities of 3.0 or 6.0 tonnes. They’re great for transporting heavy loads over both rough and smooth surfaces, indoors and outdoors. Their high ground clearance smooths out bumps and gradients. And they’re tough enough to withstand the knocks of a busy workplace. Comfortably seated, the operator stays productive mile after mile.

Mini order picker

One of the most unusual EQ line products is the mini order picker, MNO1.5Q1. It’s not just for order picking: it does the job of a ladder too – but much more safely and efficiently. Automatic aids prevent operation unless the user’s hands and feet are properly in place and the safety gates are closed.
With its stable mast and chassis, you can lift its platform safely to 3 metres. From there, the operator can pick items as high as 5 metres.

As well as picking at racking levels 1, 2 and 3, you can use it for inspection and maintenance tasks at height. Changing a light bulb or repairing a ceiling fixture, for example. It will even optionally transport additional loads by towing trailers.

For applications needing only occasional use of a lift truck each day, EQ line products are your perfect choice. They bring you all the right qualities to do the job quickly and simply – and make your life easier. And as well as raising your productivity, they lower your overall costs. In particular, they save money through their durability, minimal maintenance needs and low energy consumption.

To find out more, visit EQ Line. Further information on the complete range of Cat forklifts, warehouse equipment and related services can be found at www.catlifttruck.com. See them in action via https://www.catlifttruck.com/videos and follow the news on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

The framework was developed in collaboration with industry experts and co-ESG advisors. (Image source: Etihad Rail)

Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, has introduced its Sustainable Finance Framework.

This comprehensive guide is designed to align the company's future financing efforts with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy, particularly focusing on Clean Transportation, Green Buildings, and Pollution Prevention and Control.

The framework was developed in collaboration with industry experts and co-ESG advisors, First Abu Dhabi Bank and Standard Chartered Bank, to ensure its alignment with the Green Loan and Bond Principles. The robustness of the framework was further validated by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) through a Second Party Opinion (SPO).

Key characteristics

The framework outlines a structured approach for Etihad Rail to assess and finance sustainable projects, detailing four key components: adherence to Green Loan and Bond Principles to meet international sustainability standards, clear criteria for the allocation of funds towards sustainable initiatives, a rigorous process for project evaluation and selection, and transparent management and reporting of funds.

Aligned with Etihad Rail's ESG strategy, the framework includes mechanisms for assessing environmental risks and promoting transparency in ESG initiatives. It not only supports informed investment decisions that mitigate environmental risks and leverage sustainable market opportunities but also encourages collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industry stakeholders, regulators, and investors, thereby fostering a transition towards a more sustainable financial system.

 Ali Tabbal, chief financial officer at Etihad Rail said, “The introduction of our Sustainable Finance Framework is a testament to Etihad Rail’s commitment to integrate and uphold sustainable practices in all our operations. Through responsible financial practices, we are further underscoring this dedication by driving positive environmental and social impact in the region across the transportation, logistics, and infrastructure sectors. This framework is a pivotal element of our broader ESG strategy, directly aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It provides a clear roadmap for integrating ESG considerations into investment decisions, empowering companies to generate long-term sustainable value. By doing so, we are not only fostering a transition to a low-carbon, resilient economy but also supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and contributing to the nation’s vision for a sustainable future.”