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US Graphite One Secures Lucid Motors Supply Agreement

Graphite One Inc

Graphite One Inc. (TSX-V: GPH) (OTCQX: GPHOF) is proud to report that it has entered into a non-binding supply agreement with Lucid Group Inc. (NASDAQ: LCID) for anode active materials (AAM). This is a significant development for Graphite One as a supply agreement with a high-profile company like Lucid provides credibility and reassurance. Lucid is the maker of the world's most advanced electric vehicles while G1 is planning a complete domestic U.S. supply chain for advanced graphite materials. This landmark collaboration marks the first synthetic graphite supply agreement between a U.S. graphite developer and a U.S. EV company. Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid, said: "We are committed to accelerating the transition to sustainable vehicles and the development of a robust domestic supply chain ensures the United States, and Lucid, will maintain technology leadership in this global race, Through work with partners like Graphite One, we will have access to American-sourced critical raw materials, helping power our award-winning vehicles made with pride in Arizona." Meanwhile, Anthony Huston, President and CEO of Graphite One, said: "This is a historic moment for Graphite One, Lucid and North America: the first synthetic graphite Supply Agreement between a U.S. graphite developer and U.S. EV company, G1 is excited to continue pushing forward developing our 100% U.S. domestic supply chain. We appreciate the support from our investors and the grant from the Department of Defense. Subject to project financing required to build the AAM facility, the Supply Agreement with Lucid puts G1 on the path to produce revenue in 2027, and that's just the beginning for Graphite One as we work to meet market demands and create a secure 100% U.S.-based supply chain for natural and synthetic graphite for U.S. industry and national security." This groundbreaking agreement follows Graphite One's recent selection of a site for its proposed AAM facility. Located at a brownfield site in Warren, Ohio, this site was previously used by the U.S. Government to stockpile National Defense critical minerals. It is situated in the heart of the automobile industry, in an area with ample low-cost electricity produced from renewable energy sources. The site's existing power lines are sufficient for Graphite One's Phase 1 production target of 25,000 tonnes per year (tpy) of battery-ready anode material, and land is available for follow-on phases to ramp to 100,000 tpy of production. Discover more about Graphite One's plans to transform the U.S. graphite industry. Graphite One's Domestic Supply Chain Strategy With the United States currently 100% import-dependent for synthetic and natural graphite, Graphite One is developing a complete U.S.-based, advanced graphite supply chain solution anchored by its Graphite Creek deposit, recognized by the U.S. Geological Survey as the largest graphite deposit in the U.S. "and among the largest in the world 1." Developing a U.S.-based advanced anode material manufacturing plant is the second link in the company's comprehensive plan to create a fully domestic graphite supply chain. Here, in Ohio's emerging "Voltage Valley," G1 intends to become the first vertically integrated producer to serve the U.S. EV battery market as it produces high-quality anode materials for lithium-ion batteries and energy storage systems. The plan also includes a recycling facility to reclaim graphite and the other battery materials, to be co-located at the Ohio site, representing the third link in Graphite One's circular economy strategy. Terms of the G1-Lucid Supply Agreement The Supply Agreement is non-binding providing for 5,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of anode material to Lucid once Graphite One commences production. The initial term is for 5 years, subject to earlier termination. Sales are based on an agreed price formula linked to future market pricing as well as satisfying base case pricing agreeable to both parties. The Supply Agreement is subject to other terms, conditions and termination rights standard for an agreement of this nature. About Lucid Motors California-based Lucid Group is focused on creating the world's most advanced electric vehicles. The company's flagship vehicle, Lucid Air, delivers best-in-class performance and efficiency starting at $69,900 and has been recognized with a number of leading awards, including MotorTrend 2022 Car of the Year, World Luxury Car of the Year, and Car and Driver 10 Best. Lucid is preparing its state-of-the-art, vertically integrated factory in Arizona to begin production of the Lucid Gravity SUV. About Graphite One With the plan to create three integrated operational pillars, G1 is on a mission to become a significant player in the U.S. graphite supply chain as its future plans are to mine, process, manufacture, and recycle graphite anode materials. It is anticipated that this will primarily supply the U.S. lithium-ion EV battery market and energy storage systems. As set forth in the company's 2022 pre-feasibility study 2, graphite mineralization mined from the company's Graphite Creek property in Alaska would be processed into concentrate at an adjacent processing plant. Then, natural and artificial graphite anode active materials and other value‐added graphite products would be manufactured from the concentrate and other materials at G1's proposed manufacturing facility in Ohio. Graphite One intends to make a production decision on the project upon the completion of its feasibility study. The powerful backing of the United States Government validates G1's ambitious plans. In addition to a White House invitation, G1 has already received two significant government grants from the Department of Defense (DoD). The first grant is an exceptional $37.5 million towards its feasibility study 3. The second is an impressive $4.7 million to develop a graphite-based foam fire suppressant 4. Better still, substantial Federal support for the industry continues, which G1 plans to also tap into 5. Graphite One's triple-faceted domestic supply chain solution is strategically designed to reduce U.S. dependency on China for graphite. With its forward-thinking approach, Graphite One is not just planning to meet current market demands but also anticipating the future needs of a tech-driven world. Its high-quality graphite materials are anticipated to meet the growing demands of electrification, catalyze sustainable development, and pave the way for the next generation of technological breakthroughs. G1's management team excels in mine construction, process control design, and facility management. Their extensive expertise ensures efficient operations and a commitment to cost efficiency to maximize profitability. Graphite One has assembled a team of individuals who are not just capable but are ready to drive business growth and deliver enduring value to stakeholders over the long term. DISCOVER MORE ABOUT GRAPHITE ONE Data Sources: Springer. Insights into the metamorphic history and origin of flake graphite mineralization at the Graphite Creek graphite deposit, Seward Peninsula, Alaska, USA, February 27, 2023. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00126-023-01161-3 Graphite One. Pre-Feasibility Study Report, October 13, 2022. https://www.graphiteoneinc.com/pfs/ Graphite One Inc. Graphite One awarded $37.5 million Department of Defense grant under the Defense Production Act. July 17, 2023. https://www.graphiteoneinc.com/graphite-one-awarded-37-5-million-department-of-defense-grant-under-the-defense-production-act/ Graphite One Inc. Graphite One awarded US$4.7 million contract by U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Logistics Agency to develop graphite-based foam fire suppressant. September 11, 2023. https://www.graphiteoneinc.com/graphite-one-awarded-us4-7-million-contract-by-u-s-department-of-defenses-defense-logistics-agency-to-develop-graphite-based-foam-fire-suppressant Murkowski Senate. U.S. Critical Mineral Projects Eligible for DOE Loan Guarantees After Push from Murkowski, December 2023. https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/us-ciritical-mineral-projects-eligible-for-doe-loan-guarantees-after-push-from-murkowski IMPORTANT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER PAID ADVERTISEMENT This communication is a paid advertisement. ValueTheMarkets is a trading name of Digitonic Ltd, and its owners, directors, officers, employees, affiliates, agents and assigns (collectively the “Publisher”) is often paid by one or more of the profiled companies or a third party to disseminate these types of communications. In this case, the Publisher has been compensated by Graphite One Inc. to conduct investor awareness advertising and marketing and has paid the Publisher the equivalent of fifty thousand US dollars per month for a 12-month period starting 24 April 2024 until 23 April 2025 to produce and disseminate this and other similar articles and certain related banner advertisements. 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Other than valuethemarkets.com, the Publisher is not affiliated, connected, or associated with, and the communication is not sponsored, approved, or originated by, the trademark holders unless otherwise stated. No claim is made by the Publisher to any rights in any third-party trademarks other than valuethemarkets.com. AUTHORS: VALUETHEMARKETS valuethemarkets.com and Digitonic Ltd and our affiliates are not responsible for the content or accuracy of this article. The information included in this article is based solely on information provided by the company or companies mentioned above. This article does not provide any financial advice and is not a recommendation to deal in any securities or product. News and research are not recommendations to deal, and investments may fall in value so that you could lose some or all of your investment. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance.ValueTheMarkets do not hold any position in the stock(s) and/or financial instrument(s) mentioned in the above piece. ValueTheMarkets have been paid to produce this piece by the company or companies mentioned above. Digitonic Ltd, the owner of valuethemarkets.com, has been paid for the production of this piece by the company or companies mentioned above. Contact Details ValueTheMarkets +44 141 530 4080 editor@valuethemarkets.com Company Website https://www.valuethemarkets.com

July 31, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Standard Fleet and UP.FIT Partner to Modernize Government Electric Vehicle Fleet Management

Standard Fleet

Standard Fleet, an electric vehicle management technology developer, and UP.FIT, an Unplugged Performance company focused on the upfitting of Tesla electric vehicles for fleet use, today announced a collaborative initiative designed to enhance government electric vehicle (EV) fleet management. This effort brings together UP.FIT’s industry-leading expertise in customizing Teslas for specialty use with Standard Fleet's sophisticated fleet management software, aims to improve operational efficiency and support the environmental goals of government fleets including those managed by emergency responders and law enforcement. “Our collaboration with UP.FIT aims to equip police departments with the tools they need for a smoother, more cost-effective fleet management experience,” said David Hodge, Founder and CEO of Standard Fleet. “Integrating our software with UP.FIT’s customized Tesla vehicles means we can offer a system that improves operational efficiency while supporting environmental goals.” "Our mission at UP.FIT is to simplify the adoption of electric fleets for first responders and fleet operators globally,” said James Hedland, Fleet Director at UP.FIT. “Standard Fleet software gives operators complete control of the access, charging, maintenance, and dispatching of their up-fitted EVs. Together we’re providing police departments and other city and county fleet operators with an electric vehicle management system proven to enhance performance and operational efficiency." The partnership addresses a growing need for cost-effective and responsible deployment of EV fleets in public service by merging the expertise and capabilities of UP.FIT and Standard Fleet. This initiative is poised to redefine fleet management for government entities, enhancing both vehicle functionality and operational oversight. Key Benefits of the Partnership: Improved Operational Efficiency: Standard Fleet’s software streamlines the management of charging, maintenance, and daily operations of EVs, reducing both time and costs for fleet managers. Tailored Vehicle Customizations: UP.FIT modifies Tesla vehicles to meet the specific needs of police and public safety operations, enhancing their reliability and suitability for work in the communities they serve. Environmental Impact: The shift towards EVs helps reduce emissions and air pollution, and aligns with local, state, and federal environmental objectives. Sergeant Tony Abdalla from the South Pasadena Police Department, a client benefiting from this partnership, stated, “Adopting electric vehicles for police work presents a unique set of challenges along with opportunities to better serve our community with a cleaner, more reliable, and higher performance police fleet at lower costs over the long term. Standard Fleet technology gives us mobile access to all of our EVs to enhance our operations from dispatch, charging, maintenance, and analytics, to keyless access for officers coming on- and off-duty. Combining Standard Fleet software with the hardware and digital technology upgrades installed by UP.FIT puts our fleet at the forefront of sustainability and performance.” This initiative underscores the potential of technology to improve public sector operations and promotes the adoption of sustainable practices in fleet management. As police departments and other city and county fleet operators increasingly turn to electric vehicles, Standard Fleet and UP.FIT provides scalable, impactful, and effective solutions for the challenges of modern fleet operations. To learn more about this strategic collaboration, please visit here. Useful Links: Learn More: www.standardfleet.com About UP.FIT: https://up.fit/ Follow us: Blog | X | Instagram | LinkedIn Sales and Partnership Inquiries: Please email Standard Fleet at contact@standardfleet.com. About Standard Fleet: Founded in 2021 and based in San Francisco, Standard Fleet envisions a future where electric vehicle (EV) fleets are at the forefront of sustainable transportation, supporting a more environmentally friendly approach to urban mobility. The company’s software simplifies the management of electric vehicle fleets by enhancing operational efficiency and facilitating the transition to sustainable transportation. For more information, please visit www.standardfleet.com. About UP.FIT: Based in Hawthorne, CA, UP.FIT, an Unplugged Performance company, is the global leader in upfitting Teslas for fleet use. Launched in response to the growing need for advanced, sustainable fleet solutions, UP.FIT collaborates with industry leaders to engineer high-level components, turnkey vehicles, training, and innovative management tools. The UP.FIT mission is to provide first responders with the most innovative, safe and reliable equipment possible, all while driving to a cleaner tomorrow. Contact Details ANW Networks for Standard Fleet Alicia V. Nieva-Woodgate +1 720-808-0086 alicia@anwnetworks.com Company Website https://www.standardfleet.com/

July 16, 2024 11:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Tesla Of The Skies? How One Company Could Be About To Change The Aviation Industry Forever

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) is without doubt one of the great success stories of the stock market, having seen its share price soar almost 1500% over the past five years. The company sold some 1.8 million vehicles in 2023, compared to 22,442 vehicles 10 years earlier in 2013. During the same period, its annual revenue grew to over $95 billion. With a market cap of over $800 billion, Tesla is now by far the largest automaker in the U.S. by market cap. By comparison, Toyota (NYSE: TM), the second-largest carmaker, has a market cap of a little over $270 billion. The success of Tesla can be attributed to numerous factors, not least its groundbreaking innovation, market disruption and commitment to sustainability. Just as Tesla has redefined the automotive industry, an emerging player seeks to do the same for the aviation industry. As the world looks to the skies for the next transportation revolution, New Horizon Aircraft (NASDAQ: HOVR) could be set to be a game changer for aviation with its hybrid electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Tesla's Blueprint For Market Dominance Tesla is best known as a pioneer in the electric car market that continues to innovate with its high-tech EVs and Supercharger network. The company has been a leader in the EV market for years thanks to its focus on cutting-edge tech, including the development of advanced battery systems and autonomous driving capabilities. Thanks in large part to Tesla, the auto sector has undergone a radical change in the last decade. Global EV sales reached 14 million in 2023, rising 35% from the previous year. This figure is more than six times higher than just five years earlier. In 2023 there were around 40 million EVs on the roads, and industry experts expect this number to continue rising – forecasts suggest that the global EV fleet will reach 250 million by 2030 and 525 million by 2035. EVs are set to play an important role in helping governments around the world achieve their net zero emissions targets. As such, Tesla’s success can also be attributed to its commitment to sustainability, which is at the core of its mission. The company says its products are designed to replace the planet’s biggest polluters. Last year, Tesla customers avoided releasing over 20 million metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. This focus on sustainability has resonated with consumers and propelled Tesla to become one of the most valuable companies in the world. New Horizon Aircraft: The Tesla Of The Skies? New Horizon Aircraft is positioning itself to emulate Tesla’s success as a company at the forefront of a new era in aviation, dedicated to revolutionizing air travel through innovative and sustainable tech. Founded in 2013 by a father-and-son team with extensive flying experience, Horizon Aircraft’s team of elite aerospace engineers is developing a hybrid eVTOL aircraft called the Cavorite X7. This aircraft uses a patented fan-in-wing design that lets it take off and land vertically like a helicopter but reconfigure en route to fly like a traditional aircraft. Redefining Aviation With Cutting-Edge Technology Much like Tesla, Horizon is continually innovating and developing new technology for its aircraft design. In contrast to many other eVTOL aircraft, the Cavorite X7 uses a hybrid electric main power system, which means it can recharge its battery array mid-flight and post-flight. Horizon says that this hybrid electric system, coupled with its patented fan-in-wing design, allows the Cavorite X7 to go faster and farther and carry more useful load than its competitors. According to the company, the X7 will have a maximum range of 500 miles, a maximum useful load of 1,500lb and a top speed of 250 mph. Horizon is also innovating with advanced autonomy and control systems that aim to make flight operations safer and more efficient. The company’s technical innovations will not only allow precise control during takeoff, landing and flight but also pave the way for a fully autonomous eVTOL in the future, pending regulatory acceptance. In line with its vision, sustainability is a key aspect of Horizon’s design philosophy. The Cavorite X7’s hybrid electric system reduces fuel consumption, meaning it can operate with up to 30% less hydrocarbon emissions than conventional aircraft performing similar operations, according to the company. Furthermore, as battery technology continues to advance, the Cavorite is expected to become fully electric, which will further reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, Horizon says its aircraft could bring costs down some 30% even compared to a helicopter carrying out a similar regional transport mission and at twice the speed. Transforming Urban And Regional Mobility With their small design and ability to take off and land vertically, eVTOL aircraft are ideal for transporting people and goods within urban areas. They are therefore seen as a solution to the global problem of traffic congestion, which leads to lost time, increased fuel consumption and high emissions. A recent study found that road congestion results in up to $200 billion in lost productivity annually. With the growing need for efficient and sustainable mobility solutions, eVTOL aircraft have the potential to transform urban mobility. With a wing design that allows it to fly farther, Horizon’s Cavorite X7 sets itself apart from other eVTOL aircraft as it is also ideal for regional air mobility (RAM) – short-haul travel connecting regions that are underserved by traditional airline routes. This capability means Horizon could be poised to capitalize on a global RAM market that is expected to grow to $115 billion by 2035. In addition to passenger travel for the RAM market, Horizon expects the X7’s uses to range from medical evacuation to natural disaster response, emergency surveillance and search and rescue. Navigating Challenges As with any disruptive technology, some challenges will need to be overcome before it becomes fully accessible to the wider public. Firstly, regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), need to adapt to the rapid advancement of eVTOL technology – new products will require rigorous testing and certification processes before they can be approved. Regulators must also consider factors such as developing rules for safe flight in urban areas and air traffic control. The final hurdle to overcome for the eVTOL industry will be gaining market acceptance. It will be important to educate the public and stakeholders about the safety and benefits of this new technology in order to build trust. Adoption could come sooner than you think, however, with the FAA saying last year that it expects the first eVTOL to begin commercial operations around late 2024 or early 2025. A Vision For Tomorrow’s Skies The potential for a transformative shift in the aviation industry is immense. Just as Tesla reshaped the automotive landscape, Horizon Aircraft has the opportunity to do the same for aviation. The company envisions a future where air travel is more efficient, accessible, sustainable and integrated into our daily lives. Through continuous innovation, New Horizon Aircraft aims to make this vision a reality. Featured photo by Lars Nissen from Pixabay. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 11, 2024 08:35 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Sono Group: Driving the Future with Solar-Powered Commercial Vehicles

Sono Group N.V.

Sono Group Managing Director George O’Leary joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss the company's strategic focus on integrating solar technology into commercial vehicles, particularly their flagship product, the Solar Bus Kit. This innovative product underscores the company's commitment to the concept of "solar essence," utilizing efficient, scalable, and low-cost solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Sono Group's business model is primarily B2B, targeting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), bus manufacturers, and bus suppliers. Recent funding will sustain the company through June 2025, enabling them to concentrate on enhancing personnel, product development, and maintaining transparency. O'Leary highlighted the company's ambitious vision for the next three to five years, which aims to create a world free from fossil fuels by installing solar technology on all commercial vehicles globally. Sono Group plans to expand its solar solutions across various types of buses, whether diesel or electric. Furthermore, the company intends to move to a major stock exchange to enhance shareholder value, following their recent listing on the OTCQB market. This forward-thinking approach not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also positions Sono Group at the forefront of the solar technology integration in the commercial vehicle sector, driving innovation and fostering a greener future. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 na-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

July 10, 2024 11:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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NAFA to Host Fleet Policy Workshop Focused on Comprehensive Fundamentals and Best Practices in Fleet Management

NAFA Fleet Management Association

In the evolving landscape of fleet management, effective and well-structured policies are critical to ensuring compliance, efficiency and overall success. To address these needs, NAFA Fleet Management Association (NAFA), the vehicle fleet industry’s largest membership association, announces the development of a Fleet Policy Workshop event for fleet professionals from October 7-9, 2024, in Indianapolis, IN. This interactive workshop is designed to empower fleet professionals with the knowledge and tools to develop, implement and manage comprehensive fleet policies effectively. “Well-crafted fleet policies are the backbone of successful fleet operations. This workshop is tailored to provide fleet managers with a detailed understanding of policy creation and application, ensuring they are equipped to handle the complexities of modern fleet management,” said Bill Schankel, CAE, CEO of NAFA. “We are thrilled to bring this dynamic program to Indianapolis, providing a platform for learning, collaboration and practical skill development.” The Fleet Policy Workshop will offer a deep dive into the full cycle of policy strategy, development, implementation and assessment. Participants will gain valuable insights from industry experts and engage in hands-on activities designed to provide practical experience and immediate takeaways. Sessions at the workshop will cover a range of critical topics, including: Fundamentals and Strategies of Policy Writing Policy Needs Assessment and Implementation Customizing Fleet Policies Conducting Policy Audits and Assessments Registration for the Fleet Policy Workshop is currently open, with early bird pricing available through August 9, 2024. To learn more about the workshop and register, please visit https://www.nafa.org/events/fleet-policy-workshop/. NAFA Fleet Management Association is the membership organization for professionals who manage the mobility requirements of vehicle fleets that include commercial, public safety, trucks, and buses of all types and sizes, and a wide range of military and off-road equipment for corporations, governments, universities, utility fleets, and law enforcement in North America and across the globe. NAFA’s members are responsible for the specification, acquisition, maintenance, repair, fueling, risk management, and remarketing of more than 4.8 million vehicles that drive an estimated 84 billion miles each year. NAFA’s members control assets and services well above $122 billion each year. For more information, please visit www.nafa.org, and communicate with NAFA on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X. Contact Details Keaveny Hewitt +1 919-622-5276 khewitt@onwrdupwrd.com Company Website https://www.nafa.org/

July 08, 2024 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Transaction Between MTS Transportation, Inc. and High Desert Management Group, LLC

Benchmark International

Benchmark International is pleased to announce the transaction between MTS Transportation, Inc. and High Desert Management Group, LLC. The transaction represents a strategic expansion for High Desert Management Group, LLC, as it works to achieve scale through acquisitions and service diversification. MTS Transportation, a company with a rich history, was established in Amarillo, Texas, in 1982 and incorporated in 1990. It all began with a single tractor and refrigerated trailer to take on servicing the 3PL needs of the Texas Panhandle market. For over four decades, the company has continued to provide 3 PL services, full truck load transportation of refrigerated products, dry freight, flat bed, bulk carbon black, and bulk milk transportation on long or short hauls nationwide. “Thank you for everything you have contributed to, the timely and knowledgeable direction and for always having the time to help where and when needed. It was so appreciated.” – Tim Merrill, CEO of MTS Transportation. High Desert Management Group, LLC, a newly formed holding company in Texas, is looking to continue expanding its footprint in the Texas market with its experience in the trucking industry. High Desert Management Group, LLC intends to continue working to streamline its service operations related to dry freight products and refrigerated products in the Texas market. “It was exciting to get to the finish line with our client and even more exciting to help our client continue onto their next chapter in life, which we hope is filled with even more quality time with their friends and family. The Benchmark team has enjoyed working with MTS Transportation and High Desert Management Group, LLC through this process, and we wish both parties the best of luck in their future endeavors.” – Jeffrey Garza, Deal Associate, Benchmark International. Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350/ Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL: Benchmark International is a global M&A firm that provides business owners with creative, value-maximizing solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. Benchmark International has handled over $11 billion in transaction value across various industries from offices across the world. With decades of M&A experience, Benchmark International’s transaction teams have assisted business owners with achieving their objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses. The firm has also been named the Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor and the Global M&A Network as well as the #1 Sell-side Exclusive Privately-held M&A Advisor in the World by Pitchbook and Refinitiv's Global League Tables. Contact Details Brittney Zoeller +1 813-898-2350 zoeller@benchmarkintl.com Company Website https://www.benchmarkintl.com/

July 08, 2024 10:25 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Spring Bird Celebrates Significant Growth and Expands Reach Across the U.S.

Spring Bird

Spring Bird, a leading provider of heavy-duty transit solutions, is proud to announce its remarkable growth and expansion over the past six months. As a company deeply rooted in the Carson family's longstanding legacy in the transit industry, Spring Bird continues to set new standards in quality, customer satisfaction, and innovation. In the last six months, Spring Bird has successfully delivered transit buses for sale or lease to various key locations, including Texas, Chicago, New York, Idaho, Northern California, and an airport in Southern California. This expansion demonstrates our commitment to meeting the diverse needs of transit operators nationwide and highlights the trust and confidence our clients place in our products and services. "Our available fleet has seen significant growth, now boasting over 100 heavy-duty transit buses with fleet likeness. This uniformity not only provides a cohesive appearance for transit systems but also enhances maintenance efficiency, allowing for smoother operations and reduced downtime. Our dedication to quality and reliability ensures that each vehicle in our fleet meets the highest standards of safety and performance," said Elliott Carson, CEO of Spring Bird. This growth has propelled Spring Bird to become the second-largest supplier of certified pre-owned heavy-duty transit vehicles in North America. Our extensive inventory and comprehensive rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and retrofitting with advanced technology such as low-emission engines and GPS systems, make us the preferred choice for transit operators seeking dependable and cost-effective solutions. "Our recent achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the trust of our clients," Carson added. "We are committed to continuing our legacy of excellence and innovation, providing top-quality transit solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers." Spring Bird's success is built on a rich history of the Carson family's contributions to the transit industry, dating back to 1943. From the founding of Cross Town Lines to the establishment of Spring Bird by Elliott Carson, the company's journey reflects a deep-seated commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership. As we look to the future, Spring Bird remains focused on expanding our reach, enhancing our services, and delivering exceptional value to our customers. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in the transit industry. About Spring BirdSpring Bird is a premier provider of transportation solutions specializing in the sale, leasing, and service of heavy-duty transit buses and motor coaches. Drawing from the rich Carson family legacy in the transportation industry, Spring Bird offers an inventory of high-quality buses from leading manufacturers and provides customized rehabilitation services, including minor repairs, major overhauls, and technological retrofitting. Dedicated to safety, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Spring Bird addresses the unique needs of cities, transit agencies, and private operators, ensuring reliable and efficient transportation solutions. Contact Details Media Contact press@springbirdbus.com Company Website https://springbirdbus.com

July 02, 2024 11:17 AM Central Daylight Time

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The Future Of Air Mobility: Horizon Aircraft's Cavorite X7 Leading The Charge In eVTOL Innovation

Benzinga

By James Blacker, Benzinga Imagine being able to order a flying taxi at the touch of a button, then to be whisked over the traffic and across the city in minutes, navigating above skyscrapers to an awaiting vertiport. Imagine a loved one being airlifted to the hospital in half of the time of a traditional helicopter. While this futuristic vision was once confined to the realm of science fiction, excitement for a new form of air travel is growing as advances in technology could bring them to our skies sooner than many think. Global investors expect to see the first commercial flights using electrical vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft by 2026. The United States Federal Aviation Administration said last year that it expects the first eVTOL to begin commercial operations around late 2024 or early 2025. The United Kingdom, meanwhile, recently outlined a roadmap for eVTOL aircraft use, which it sees launching in the country by 2026, with fully autonomous versions in the skies by 2030. According to Spherical Insights, the Advanced Mobility Market (AMM) was worth $9.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 18.69% from 2023 to 2033, reaching $51 billion. Morgan Stanley has an even more bullish outlook, predicting that AMM will encompass a total addressable market of $1.5 trillion by 2040, citing the convergence of technologies such as batteries, autonomous systems and advanced manufacturing as reasons for this explosive growth. Who Needs A Pilot, Anyway? Several key players are making headlines in the eVTOL market, including New Horizon Aircraft (NYSE: HOVR), Joby Aviation and Lilium. While most companies are taking a traditional piloted approach with their eVTOLs, others, such as Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR), EHang and Boeing (NYSE: BA) subsidiary Wisk Aero are developing fully autonomous versions. As the technology develops and governments begin to adopt regulations to allow unpiloted eVTOLs, we can expect to see other players, such as Horizon Aircraft, following suit with autonomous vehicles of their own. Horizon Aircraft: Bucking The Trend While many competitors in the space are developing fully electric eVTOL aircraft, Horizon’s Cavorite X7 uses a hybrid electric propulsion system, allowing it to travel faster, go further and carry more useful cargo. According to the company, the X7 will have a maximum range of 500 miles, a maximum useful load of 1,500lb and a top speed of 250 mph – outperforming its all-electric competitors in every metric. The seven-seat Cavorite X7 uses a patented fan-in-wing design, with 14 electric ducted fans installed. After a vertical takeoff, the wings reconfigure, allowing it to fly like a normal aircraft during en-route flight. It can also take off and land from a traditional airport like a normal aircraft. The Canadian firm currently has a 50%-scale prototype that has successfully demonstrated hover flight and hopes to complete a successful transition flight soon. The company recently announced a number of promising technical updates. Horizon’s innovative approach appears to be working – earlier this year, Indian air operator JetSetGo signed a letter of intent with the company to purchase 50 Cavorite X7 for $5 million each, with an option to purchase an additional 50, at a total cost of $500 million. With its innovative approach to eVTOL design, and with a government that has shown robust support for the development of sustainable aviation, New Horizon Aircraft seems to be in a good position to take advantage of a potential boom in this new and disruptive form of air travel. Featured photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

July 01, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Flash Appoints Chris Donus as President

Flash Parking

Flash, the leading end-to-end parking technology platform, today announced that Chris Donus, the current CFO, has been appointed president of the organization. In the newly established role, Donus will expand his focus on day-to-day operations, working closely with the leadership team to execute transformative strategies that include the expansion of Flash’s burgeoning digital demand network, EV charging and parking platform scale, and driving the company’s regionalized branch organization to deliver unmatched partner experiences. Dan Sharplin will continue in his role as Chairman and CEO, focusing on international growth, strategic transactions, and ecosystem partnerships. “This promotion reflects Chris’s exceptional leadership and expertise at this time of tremendous momentum for Flash as we rapidly scale our industry-leading parking and EV charging digital ecosystem," said Flash CEO Dan Sharplin. “In the next 24 months, we anticipate more transformation in the parking industry than we’ve seen in several decades prior. Chris has the relevant experience to ensure we execute on our priorities that allow us to drive this industry transformation.” “We are building a parking and EV charging ecosystem where a seamless driver experience benefits everyone,” said Donus. “There is an incredible amount of innovation and hard work being done across Flash to build the platform and partnerships that further our position as the leader in parking and EV Charging technology. I look forward to ensuring the value we create is incomparable in my role as President of Flash.” Before Flash, Donus served as COO and CFO at Wheel Health, a venture-backed telehealth platform developer designed to connect companies and clinicians to deliver virtual care. He also served in senior leadership roles at Lyft as VP and Business Unit leader of Express Drive, the customer-facing fleet line of business, generating over $400 million in rental revenue and over $2 billion in Lyft rides. Prior to that, he was president of Silvercar from 2015 to 2018 alongside roles as COO, from 2017 to 2018, and CFO from 2012 to 2015. He has also served in leadership roles at Freescale Semiconductor, Hertz Global Holding, and Lucent Technologies. About Flash Flash is a pioneering technology company bringing seamless parking and EV charging experiences to drivers through a first-of-its-kind digital ecosystem. Flash’s platform connects reservable parking and charging in the apps drivers use every day with garage, surface lot, event, and valet parking locations—connected and controlled via a cloud-based operating system with unrivaled intelligence. Customer-obsessed brands partner with Flash to deliver digital, easy-to-use, reliable, and increasingly frictionless experiences to drivers eager to pay for a solution that eliminates wasted time, excess emissions, and stress. The solution has arrived. Contact Details Razor Sharp PR Ray Young +1 512-694-6097 ray@razorsharppr.com Company Website https://www.flashparking.com/

June 27, 2024 10:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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