Royal Commission for AlUla announces contractor and begins construction on Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre

AlUla, Saudi Arabia, June 2023: The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has begun construction of its Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. The project will be built directly into the mountains of Sharaan Nature Reserveand aims to meet ambitious sustainability goals for the construction phase and resort operations.

In a ceremony at Sharaan Nature Reserve, RCU signed an agreement with Bouygues Construction, a French engineering group, which will manage construction of the resort through a joint venture with Almabani, a leading Saudi engineering firm. Bouygues Construction brings a unique combination of experience in tunneling and construction of ultra-luxury hotels, both required for this complex development.

RCU’s Development and Construction sector is spearheading this project with consultation from Canadian firm WSP and with program management support from Jasara, a Saudi firm. Together they will deliver the masterful vision which will immerse guests in the natural and cultural heritage of Sharaan Nature Reserve.

Just as the Nabataean civilisation carved structures into nearby sandstone more than 2,000 years ago, Sharaan resort will carve a new chapter in stone for AlUla’s living museum while preserving the natural scenery and native flora and faunaat the heart of RCU’s vision for Sharaan. RCU consulted with the world’s top experts in mining and excavation to engineer solutions in line with the architectural vision.

Built into a mountain dating back 500 million years, the Sharaan resort will offer a memorable and timeless experience with 38 suites, a spa and wellness center, kids club, sport centre, all-day dining restaurant and business centre. In addition, a signature fine-dining restaurant will sit atop the mountain with panoramic views of Sharaan. A unique glass elevator will connect the resort with a geologic and artistic experience, offering views of ancient sedimentary layers and niches filled with art and engravings.

Inside an adjacent mountain, the Sharaan International Summit Centre will host events and leaders from around the world. With a completely secure and private environment, itsdesign will enable chance encounters and private interaction for guests with shared leisure activities in an informal setting.Facilities will include an auditorium, meeting rooms, majlis (sitting room), library, and a sport and leisure area.

The Summit Centre will also have 13 total hospitality pavilions and two private villas will be constructed nearby, completing the project with 53 total hospitality keys.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainability Charter for AlUla, the Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre is designed in harmony with its natural environment. Discreet studies of the site have informedthe design of passive strategies and natural geological heat transfer to efficiently cool the property in summer and provide warmth in the winter. The project also aims for zero wastewaterby using potable water only when needed and by recycling all treatable wastewater for irrigation and other purposes.

Mohammed Altheeb, RCU Chief Development and Construction Officer, said: “Sharaan resort is our most ambitious projectcurrently under construction. The resort was designed with complete reverence for the human and natural history of AlUla, and we are committed to sustainable building practices in line with this same philosophy. RCU and its partners are excited to unveil a new chapter in the story of these ancient mountains, where guests will experience the wonders of Sharaan Nature Reserve.”

Pierre-Eric Saint-André, Deputy CEO of Bouygues Construction, said:“We are grateful to be part of the ambitious cultural and tourism project of AlUla, and in particular to have been chosen by the Royal Commission of AlUla with our partner Almabani to build the iconic Sharaan Resort and International Summit Centre. The bold vision of Jean Nouvel’s architectural firm – with whom we have already had the opportunity to work on the Paris Philharmonic Center for example – is a great source of inspiration for us, since the technical prowess it requires are absolutely unique and incredibly stimulating. We are confident that we will be able to bring our passion for challenges and our state-of-the-art expertise acquired over 70 years on all continents to ensure that this great project becomes an iconic reference in terms of exclusive tourist experience, respect for the environment and harmonious integration within grandiose landscapes.”

Omaxe Foundation Empowers Students Through Distribution of Sewing Machines

Omaxe Foundation and the Rotary Club of Delhi Lutyens took a significant step towards empowering students by distributing 25 sewing machines to Indraprastha Hindu Girls Sr Sec School, Chandni Chowk (Near Jama Masjid). The initiative aimed to enhance skill development and provide livelihood opportunities to students there. Many dignitaries and intellectuals, including Mrs. Sushma Rohtas Goel, Chairperson of Omaxe Foundation, was present in the programme. Cultural programs were also presented by the students on this occasion.

Mrs. Sushma Rohtas Goel, Chairperson of Omaxe Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm about this empowering initiative and said, “Today it is a matter of pride for Omaxe Foundation that we are starting Singer Vocational Training for young girls in collaboration with Rotary Club of Delhi Lutyens. We see this opportunity as a beginning because through this, these students will not only get perfection in new art, but their future will also be bright. Our aim is to encourage these girls to move forward at every step. Omaxe Foundation will be ready to contribute to all the students in future also.”

While speaking during the event Mrs. Sushma Rohtas Goel announced that as soon as these students will be perfect in their craft, the foundation will organise a competition at Omaxe Chowk, Chandni Chowk and the winning student will be given a cash prize of 10,000. She thanked all the guests who were a part of the event and encouraged the students in this new beginning.”

The sewing machines were distributed in a special ceremony at the school premises. The event was graced by prominent personalities from the Omaxe Foundation, the Rotary Club of Delhi Lutyens, the school administration, and local dignitaries. The sewing machines will be a valuable asset for students, providing practical skills that can be utilised for personal use and potential entrepreneurial endeavours. This initiative aligns with Omaxe Foundation’s mission to uplift and transform lives by promoting education, skill development, and socio-economic empowerment.

Fisker to Open China Delivery Center in 2023 and Start Deliveries of Fisker Ocean Suv in Q1 2024

LOS ANGELES (June 10, 2023) – Fisker Inc. (NYSE: FSR) (“Fisker”), driven by a mission to create the world’s most emotional and sustainable electric vehicles, today announced its plans to open a delivery center in China in 2023 and commence deliveries of the Fisker Ocean SUV in Q1 2024.

“After beginning deliveries in Europe and with the first vehicles coming to our US customers on June 23, we are excited to move into the Chinese market later this year,” Chairman and CEO Henrik Fisker said. “We expect China to be an important growth market for EVs in the future and believe our vehicles will be very appealing. That is why we established an office there and intend to open a delivery center this year. I believe we can get production up and running in China as early as next year, potentially adding a capacity of 75,000 Fisker Oceans annually.”

At Fisker’s annual shareholder meeting, held June 6, China board member Daniel Foa outlined the company’s advantages in the country.

“Firstly, China represents a third of global vehicles sales, which is roughly 26 million cars in 2022, of which electric vehicles represent 6-7 million, around a 25% share,” he said. “In 2023 year-to-date, that has grown to around 27%. Secondly, the premium and affordable luxury segment is growing faster than the general segments. Fisker fits right in that segment with its unique history, features, and design.”

“China has always had a high acceptance of high-quality traditional international automotive brands,” Foa added. “There has been a rapid shift to electrification both from government policies and consumer behavior. Fisker is one of only two EV-only international companies which are viable alternatives to traditional brands. This will enable us to be on the shortlist for consumer purchase decisions but with a more feature-rich product. As a new international EV brand, this presents a vast opportunity for Fisker in China.”

Fisker’s leadership team recently visited China and met with officials and business leaders in Shanghai to discuss collaborations and opportunities in the region. The conversations focused on automotive supply chains, logistics, warehousing, and future product development.

With a 113 kWh battery pack (106 kWh usable) the $68,999 Fisker Ocean Extreme has an EPA-estimated range of 360 miles[1] on standard 20” wheels and tires; in Europe, the Fisker Ocean Extreme has a WLTP range of 707km/440 UK miles[2] on standard 20” wheels and tires, which is the longest range of any electric SUV sold in Europe today. The all-electric SUV starts at $37,499 for the Fisker Ocean Sport trim level.

About Fisker Inc. 

California-based Fisker Inc. is revolutionizing the automotive industry by designing and developing individual mobility in alignment with nature. Passionately driven by a vision of a clean future for all, the company is on a mission to create the world’s most sustainable and emotional electric vehicles. To learn more, visit Fiskerinc.com and enjoy exclusive content across Fisker’s social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Download the revolutionary new Fisker mobile app from the App Store or Google Play .

NMDC hosts Interactive Session on GeM Portal

Hyderabad, 9 June 2023:Navratna CPSE, NMDC organized an Interactive Session with GeM Authorities on the existing and additional functionalities in the GeM Portal on 8-9 June, 2023 at its Head Office in Hyderabad.

Chief Manager, Product and Forward Action and Nodal Officer for NMDC Shri Shailesh Kumar and GeM Facilitator of Telangana Shri Ravi Varma were the key speakers at the session. Deliberating on procurement of Products and Services through GeM Portal and disposal of materials through the Forward Auction mode in the GeM Portal, the speakers interacted with senior officials from NMDC.

NMDC has procured Goods and Services worth INR 840 crore through the Government e Marketplace in FY23, surpassing its target of INR 750 crore. The State Miner’s GeM procurement percentage is witnessing the fastest increase in Steel PSEs. NMDC has made procurement worth INR 191 crore in FY24 till 31, May 2023.
During the session, GeM officials highlighted the service category of Air Ambulance on GeM that could benefit the company’s health infrastructure in Projects at remote locations.

NMDC officials suggested including Forward Auction of iron ore and other products through the GeM Portal and also recommended features that can make the portal user-friendly such as updating new developments on the homepage ticker.

NMDC’s senior officials from its Projects across India and employees from Materials, Finance, Contracts, Commercial, C&IT and Vigilance departments participated in the Session to enhance future procurements through GeM.
Commenting on this, Shri Amitava Mukherjee, Director (Finance) said, “NMDC promotes its vendors, especially MSMEs, to enlist on the National Public Procurement Portal and leverage the efficiency and transparency offered by GeM.”

Vistara, Now First Airline in India to Implement Robotic Aircraft Exterior Cleaning

Mumbai, 09 June 2023: Vistara, India’s leading full-service carrier and a joint venture of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, announced yet another industry-first initiative of implementing Aerowash, an automated aircraft exterior washing and cleaning solution introduced by AeroTech Support Services Pvt. Ltd. Operated by a user friendly and wireless remote control, Aerowash is equipped with several safety features and alarm indicators. Its efficient micro-fiber brush drum provides a superior cleaning result of the aircraft exterior surface using a nearly waterless, dry-wash process.

This cutting-edge technology reiterates Vistara’s commitment towards adopting innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiencies while also reducing its carbon footprint. Aircraft detailing (or cleaning) is a critical aspect of maintenance in the aviation industry. Traditionally, it has relied on manual labor, which can be time-consuming, resource-intensive and prone to human error. However, this mechanised program is not only time efficient but also sustainable. It reduces aerodynamic drag caused due to the accumulation of dirt, dust, grime, etc., and ultimately reduces the aircraft weight. This directly translates to enhanced fuel efficiency by minimising fuel burn.

By meticulously maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of the aircraft’s exterior, this innovative approach will safeguard against structural damage, prevent corrosion caused by environmental factors and oil/fluid leakages, and extend the lifespan of the aircraft. Vistara has been conducting demo/proof of concept of AeroWash for sometime.

Pankaj Handa, Senior Vice President – Ground Operations, Vistara said, “We are delighted to become India’s first carrier to implement this one-of-a-kind initiative that underscores our unwavering commitment to invest in innovative, purpose-driven technologies since inception. This is yet another step as part of our ongoing efforts towards enhancing efficiencies across various areas of our operations through automation while also constantly looking at improved, and more sustainable ways to do business.”

Dr. Ashwani Khanna, Executive Director, AeroTech Support Services Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are excited to get associated with Vistara as it becomes the first airline to adopt this futuristic technology after a detailed assessment. Vistara is the first airline in India to sign up for this solution and lead the way for other airlines to follow. I am also happy with how the relationship with AISATS has evolved to a collaborative partnership that has the potential to have a deep positive impact on the entire industry in the coming years.”

Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and TripAdvisor, and it has been the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards, besides being lauded for world-class cabin cleanliness and upholding high safety standards. The airline has recently been featured amongst World’s Top 20 Airlines while being recognised as the ‘Best Airline in India and Southern Asia’ for the second time in a row, ‘Best Airline Staff Service in India and Southern Asia’ for the fourth consecutive year, ‘Best Cabin Crew in India and Southern Asia’ for the second time in a row and ‘Best Business Class in India and Southern Asia’ at the coveted Skytrax World Airline Awards 2022. Vistara was also named the ‘Best Overall Airline’ in Central/Southern Asia at the 2023 Regional Passenger Choice Awards. Additionally, Vistara had recently received the ch-aviation Asia’s Third Youngest Airline Fleet award for the second consecutive year.

Lean Manufacturing: Efficiency is first priority

Lean manufacturing principles can play a crucial role in the electric vehicle (EV) industry in India. The application of lean manufacturing can enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall productivity in EV manufacturing plants. Lean manufacturing is an approach that focuses on maximizing efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing processes within a manufacturing system. It has gained significant importance in the electric vehicle (EV) industry worldwide, including in India. The Indian EV industry is rapidly growing, and implementing lean manufacturing principles can help enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness. Here are some key areas where lean principles can be beneficial in the EV industry:

Value Stream Mapping (VSM): VSM helps identify and eliminate non-value-added activities, reducing waste and improving process flow. By implementing VSM in EV manufacturing, companies can streamline their production processes, optimize material flow, and eliminate bottlenecks, resulting in increased productivity and reduced lead times. Work-in-process (WIP) limits on the kanban board help team manage capacity. With this information, it’s now quite easier to see and eliminate normal sources of process waste, returning focus to the customer.

Just-in-Time (JIT) Production: JIT is a core principle of lean manufacturing that aims to eliminate waste by producing and delivering components or materials just when they are needed in the production process. JIT can help EV manufacturers reduce inventory costs, minimize storage space requirements, and improve cash flow by avoiding excess inventory.

Standardized Work: Implementing standardized work processes ensures consistency, reduces errors, and facilitates continuous improvement. In the EV industry, standardized work can be applied to assembly lines, quality control processes, and maintenance activities, leading to improved efficiency and product quality.

Error-proofing (Poka-Yoke): Error-proofing techniques, also known as poka-yoke, involve designing processes and systems in a way that prevents or detects errors before they occur or reach the customer. Implementing such measures can significantly reduce defects, rework, and warranty costs.

Continuous Improvement (Kaizen): Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement is essential in the EV industry to identify and eliminate waste, inefficiencies, and defects. By implementing Kaizen practices, such as employee involvement, problem-solving techniques, and regular process audits, EV manufacturers can drive innovation, increase productivity, and enhance overall product quality.

Total Productive Maintenance (TPM): TPM focuses on equipment reliability and aims to minimize equipment downtime, defects, and breakdowns. In the EV industry, implementing TPM practices can help ensure the maximum availability of manufacturing equipment, reduce maintenance costs, and optimize production output.

Employee Involvement and Training: Engaging and empowering employees is vital for lean manufacturing success. Providing training and involving employees in process improvement initiatives can lead to increased motivation, innovation, and a greater sense of ownership amongst the workforce. Companies can establish cross-functional teams or suggestion systems to encourage employee involvement in problem-solving and waste-reduction efforts.

Pull System: The pull system turnover the script by emphasizing and helping co-workers finish current tasks before they start the new ones. Throughout the process, when one piece is done, workers notify one another, and the next person can work on the project as soon as  their available capacity allows. As a result, morale, productivity, and efficiency get a boost.

Supplier Collaboration: Lean principles extend beyond the manufacturing facility to the entire supply chain. Collaborating closely with suppliers can help streamline the inbound logistics, reduce lead times, improve quality control, and ensure timely delivery of components, enhancing overall efficiency in the EV manufacturing process.

Lean manufacturing takes you a little closer to customers because they become the top priority. Visualize what could help your team become more systematic and put lean systems in place to find success. By implementing lean manufacturing principles, the EV industry in India can achieve cost savings, improved quality, increased productivity, and a more sustainable production process. It is important for companies to assess their specific manufacturing processes, identify areas for improvement, and tailor lean practices accordingly to maximize their benefits in the context of the EV industry. 

Pankaj Goyal

The author is the Co-Founder & COO of AutoNxt Automation (https://autonxt.in) India’s First electric tractor venture and an automation technology startup.

Unleashing a Chess Storm: Berlin is ready for the Armageddon Championship Series: Europe & Africa on June 12th

World Chess, a leading chess organization, seeks to captivate chess enthusiasts with its upcoming Europe and Africa week of the Armageddon Championship Series. Kickstarting on June 12th, the high-stakes event will follow the same dramatic format and immense time pressure constraints as the previous Armageddon events.

This enthralling tournament will witness the participation of eight exceptional players from the Europe and Africa region, including Michael Adams (England), MaximeVachier-Lagrave (France), Richard Rapport (Romania), Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland), Jorden van Foreest (Netherlands), Vincent Keymer (Germany), as well as Matthias Bluebaum and Alexander Donchenko, both of whom qualified successfully through online qualifiers on the FIDE Online Arena. This star-studded lineup will battle it out in a double-elimination format, with daily matches consisting of two blitz games with the potential for an additional Armageddon game if a victory does not emerge.

The winner and runner-up will join an exciting roster of finalists in the Grand Finale to be held at World Chess’ newly opened Chess Club in Berlin, where they will compete against Wesley So, Sam Shankland, Gukesh D, NodirbekAbdusattorov, BibisaraAssaubayeva, and Humpy Koneru for the total prize of €200,000.

The tournament will follow a dramatic format with daily matches consisting of two blitz games (three minutes plus a two-second move increment) and, if necessary, an Armageddon game (five minutes for White, four for Black). Novelties such as live displays of the players’ heart rates and calories burned data points make the Series a riveting spectacle for viewers.

The Armageddon series is being broadcast on 17 television channels worldwide, as well as World Chess’ official YouTube channel, with expert commentary and analysis provided by Grandmaster Simon Williams and International Master JovankaHouska every day at 19:00 CEST.

For the first few days, the players were divided into pairs as follows:

Day 1, June 12
Michael Adams (England) — Jan-Krzysztof Duda (Poland)
Vincent Keymer (Germany) — Alexander Donchenko

Day 2, June 13
Richard Rapport (Romania) — Jorden van Foreest (Netherlands)
Matthias Bluebaum (Germany) — MaximeVachier-Lagrave (France)
Ilya Merenzon, Chief Executive Officer of World Chess: “It has been fantastic to watch the global accumulation of chess players come together to compete in the Armageddon series. As we now head towards the Grand Finale it has been a real joy to watch the fast-paced matches between chess players of different experiences, playing styles and nationalities.

“The series has created an atmosphere of suspense and excitement and highlighted the benefits of embracing innovative formats such as Armageddon, enabling top-level chess to entice a broader audience and ignite greater passion amongst fans.
“We offer our best wishes to all the players and are excited to get Europe and Africa Week of the Armageddon Championship underway.”

Andrey Insarov, Chief Executive Officer at Intis Telecom (it.com Domains): “We are thrilled to witness the convergence of intelligence and skill in the Armageddon Series. At it.com we are excited to support this great sport within our meaningful partnership with World Chess. We eagerly await the exciting and intense battles and extend our best wishes to all the players participating in Europe & Africa Week. Good luck!”

Leading partners supporting the Armageddon Championship Series:

The it.com Domains as the Official Partner;
FIDE Online Arena as the Official Gaming Platform;
Kaspersky as the Official Cybersecurity Partner.

For further questions, please contact media@worldchess.com.
Official website: https://chessarena.com/armageddon

Conflux Co-Learning Hosts Fall Workshop

Licensed professional counselor Justine Froelker to speak at St. Louis nonprofit’s event.

(St. Louis, Mo., June 9, 2023) – Conflux Co-Learning, the nation’s first co-learning space that exclusively serves manufacturers and distributors, will hold its fall workshop on Wed., Sept. 6 from 8 to 10 a.m. at Conflux’s headquarters located at 8221 Minnesota Ave. Keynote speaker Justine Froelker will focus on teaching the tools and techniques needed to lead with courage while highlighting the impact it creates on one’s personal and professional life. The workshop is free and open to the public.

Justine Froelker is a licensed professional counselor with more than 20 years of experience in traditional mental health and personal and professional development. She provides training nationally on topics including leadership, mental health, preventing and coping with burnout, resilience, and courageous communication. Froelker, a St. Louisan who is the best-selling author of 11 books, has been certified in the work of Dr. Brené Brown for the past nine years.

“Justine brings a wide range of practical ways to inspire courage and leadership into your daily life,” said Conflux Co-Learning’s Chairman of the Board Brandon Dempsey. “We look forward to having Justine educate both our clients and the general public so they can create lasting changes at home and at work.”

Conflux Co-Learning is a membership-based nonprofit organization that creates content, connections, and space so manufacturing and distribution leaders can navigate and grow in a rapidly changing industry. For more information, call (314) 754-8712 or visit www.confluxcolearning.com.

Reservations for the workshop are required for the free workshop. To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/conflux-workshop-with-justine-froelker-tickets-651015283237.