December 1, 2024
Tech News
Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy has invested in Skarper, a UK startup that has developed a click-on device to convert any bike into an e-bike. The system, which is easy to install and remove, aims to enhance the cycling experience without permanently altering the bike. Skarper has raised £12.8 million since its inception and recently began shipping its first production run. Hoy believes that e-bikes can provide significant benefits, such as reducing sweat during commutes and offering a more accessible cycling option for those with health issues.
Jollibee Group is undergoing a digital transformation to enhance its operations and customer experience. The fast-food chain is focusing on automation and technology to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. Partnering with Workato, Jollibee aims to develop a composable architecture that integrates cloud and on-premise systems. The company has already implemented solutions like Shop-Pay to simplify procurement processes and plans to introduce an AI-powered Back Office Bot to automate inventory tracking and order processing, ultimately allowing employees to focus on customer satisfaction.
Climate venture capitalists are cautiously optimistic about the potential impact of a second Trump administration on climate tech. While Trump has historically been critical of aggressive climate policies, some investors believe that deregulation could benefit certain sectors, such as geothermal and hydrogen technologies. Investors are focusing on companies that provide concrete value independent of government subsidies, learning from past clean tech failures. However, they acknowledge that some areas, particularly those reliant on tax credits, may face challenges under a less supportive administration.
Tech Explained
E-bike – An e-bike is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor that can be used for propulsion. E-bikes are gaining popularity for their ability to assist cyclists in pedaling and providing a more accessible cycling option.
Geothermal technologies – Geothermal technologies involve harnessing heat from the Earth’s core to generate electricity or provide heating and cooling solutions. These technologies are considered renewable and environmentally friendly.
Hydrogen technologies – Hydrogen technologies involve the production and use of hydrogen as a clean energy source. Hydrogen can be used in fuel cells to generate electricity or as a fuel for vehicles.
Cloud – In the context of technology, cloud refers to the delivery of computing services over the internet. Cloud computing allows companies to access and store data and applications remotely, providing flexibility and scalability.
AI-powered – AI-powered refers to technology that utilizes artificial intelligence algorithms to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI-powered solutions can automate processes, analyze data, and make decisions without human intervention.
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