12, Oct 2026
Paris Motor Show 2026, GAC Launches Global Service Brand GAC CARE+ in Europe, Delivering Around-the-Clock Care

PARIS, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On October 12, the 91st Paris Motor Show opened at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. GAC showcased new energy vehicles across its three brands, with the AION UT Cross making its global debut. GAC. THE ENGINEERS, its brand proposition for Europe, was officially launched, while its global service brand GAC CARE+ made its European debut, marking a new stage of full-chain localization in Europe.

In Europe, GAC is bringing not only high-quality products, but also consistent service standards tailored to local users. At the show, GAC officially launched GAC CARE+, guided by the service philosophy “Always There, Always Care.” Built around convenient services, trusted quality, customer care and a smart ecosystem, the service covers the entire user journey, from vehicle selection and purchase to daily use and maintenance.

As the first market to launch GAC CARE+, Europe will adopt its global service framework, evolving from basic service support to full-lifecycle value services and delivering a trusted, high-quality ownership experience.

For convenient services, GAC provides three years of free roadside assistance across Europe. Supported by its Rotterdam Parts Distribution Center, parts order fulfillment exceeds 95%, with average dispatch within 36 hours. For quality assurance, GAC offers an eight-year/160,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/200,000 km battery warranty. For customer care, GAC will first launch a local-language call center in France before gradually expanding coverage across Europe. Vehicles will also receive ongoing OTA software updates. For a smart ecosystem, the official app integrates functions such as remote vehicle control and supports home charging solutions compliant with European standards, connecting home energy needs with seamless online and offline services.

Great products earn trust; great service keeps it. In Europe, GAC will combine standardized processes, localized response, thoughtful care and a smarter ecosystem to deliver more personal, efficient and high-quality service to European users.

For further information about GAC, please visit https://www.gacgroup.com/en or follow us on social media.

Paris Motor Show 2026, GAC Launches Global Service Brand GAC CARE+ in Europe, Delivering Around-the-Clock Care

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12, Oct 2026
MiTAC Computing Showcases Full-Stack Innovation to Scale Open AI Infrastructure at OCP Global Summit 2026

SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation, a subsidiary of MiTAC Holdings Corporation (TWSE: 3706) and a global leader in high-performance server solutions, today unveiled its latest AI infrastructure innovations at the 2026 OCP Global Summit, Booth D22, under the theme “Scaling Open AI Infra with Full-Stack Innovation.”

Large-scale AI clusters and AI factories demand more than compute performance alone. MiTAC Computing takes a full-stack approach, transforming fragmented infrastructure into a cohesive, scalable foundation designed for deployment, management, and expansion.

MiTAC Computing Showcases Full-Stack Innovation to Scale Open AI Infrastructure at OCP Global Summit 2026

From Scalable AI Factories to Modular Data Centers: Flexible Infrastructure for Every Scale

As AI workloads expand from training, inference, and RAG to Agentic AI, infrastructure needs vary by scale and deployment environment. MiTAC Computing’s AI Infrastructure Stack spans compute, storage, and liquid-cooled servers through open platform firmware, operating systems, AI software ecosystems, and AI Pod management, providing a consistent, scalable foundation for diverse workloads.

For large-scale, centralized AI environments, MiTAC Computing delivers its Scalable AI Factory, combining full-stack capabilities with rack-scale integration to support high-density computing and continued expansion. For distributed sites or rapid buildouts, MiTAC offers modular data center solutions. The TonoForge™Modular Data Center, developed with Tonomia, incorporates MiTAC G4826Z5 liquid-cooled AI servers and rack-scale integration. Its proven 12-week deployment demonstrates how the modular approach can accelerate the deployment of high-performance GPU AI clusters.

From centralized AI factories to distributed modular data centers, MiTAC gives enterprises the flexibility to build AI infrastructure around their compute requirements, site conditions, and deployment needs.

Breaking Thermal Barriers with Advanced Liquid Cooling

Higher compute density and rack-scale AI factories are making advanced cooling critical to unlocking greater compute performance. MiTAC Computing is showcasing multiple advanced liquid cooling solutions, including a PoC with ZutaCore that integrates the MiTAC G4826Z5 with ZutaCore® HyperCool® Waterless Two-Phase Liquid Cooling technology. Using a dielectric fluid that changes phase from liquid to vapor directly at the chip, the technology removes heat generated by CPUs and GPUs at the source.

The technology demonstrates the potential to support more than 4,000W per chip and average heat flux exceeding 250W/cm². Under defined operating conditions, an annualized model indicates a pPUE as low as 1.03, highlighting the value of two-phase cooling for increasingly power-dense AI infrastructure.

On October 14, MiTAC Computing will present an Expo Hall Session exploring the evolution of high-density AI systems toward next-generation rack-scale platforms and how advanced liquid cooling can overcome thermal constraints to unlock greater compute performance.

Extending Openness Across the AI Stack

Alongside advances in hardware performance, MiTAC Computing continues to develop its Open Source Firmware Solution. The G4826Z5 demonstrates full-stack integration from bare metal to AI applications. At the platform level, MiTAC’s internally developed MiOPF™ supports fast system initialization, while MiOBMC™ provides real-time hardware monitoring and telemetry, giving customers greater firmware control and customization flexibility while reducing dependence on a single vendor.

Across the software ecosystem, the G4826Z5 runs Canonical-certified Ubuntu 26.04 OS and integrates Kubernetes and the DDN Data Intelligence Platform. It also incorporates AMD ROCm™ open software stack to unlock the compute performance of AMD Instinct™ MI355X GPUs. MiTAC Computing is working with Rafay on GPU cluster management to support flexible GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) resource pools, enabling on-demand compute allocation based on AI workload requirements while simplifying deployment and management.

In an Executive Session later today, MiTAC Computing will explore open infrastructure management through technologies such as Open Platform Firmware (OPF), OpenBMC, and Redfish. The discussion will examine how open standards and OCP community collaboration can improve infrastructure interoperability, and how MiCoreView™, MiTAC’s infrastructure management software built on open-source technologies, can further extend management capabilities from the platform level to rack and cluster scale. MiTAC will also share practical insights into deployment, telemetry, data center rack and cluster management, and system orchestration.

New Platforms Target OCP Computing and AI Inference

MiTAC Computing is making the global debut of the C2611Z6 and showcasing the latest G4520G6E3BC-N configuration, expanding its portfolio for high-density OCP computing and enterprise AI inference.

MiTAC Computing invites OCP Global Summit attendees to visit Booth D22 and experience how full-stack innovation is helping scale open AI infrastructure.

Learn more: 

About MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation

MiTAC Computing Technology Corp., a subsidiary of MiTAC Holdings, delivers comprehensive, energy-efficient server solutions backed by industry expertise dating back to the 1990s. Specializing in AI, HPC, cloud, and edge computing, MiTAC Computing employs rigorous methodologies to ensure uncompromising quality—across barebones, systems, racks, and cluster levels—fully achieving performance and integration. This commitment to quality at every level sets MiTAC Computing apart in the industry.

With a worldwide presence and end-to-end capabilities—from R&D and manufacturing to global support—MiTAC Computing provides agile, customized platforms for hyperscale data centers, HPC, and AI applications, ensuring optimal performance and scalability to meet unique business needs. By leveraging the latest advancements in AI and liquid cooling, and unifying the MiTAC brand with Intel DSG and TYAN server products, MiTAC Computing stands out for its innovative, efficient, and reliable server technology as well as its hardware and software integrated solutions—empowering businesses to meet future challenges.

MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation website: https://www.mitaccomputing.com/

AMD, the AMD logo, EPYCTM, AMD InstinctTM, and combinations thereof are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.

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12, Oct 2026
Saksoft Appoints Gurmeet Chahal as Chief Executive Officer to Lead Its Next Phase of Global Scale and AI-Led Transformation

First non-promoter CEO takes the helm as Saksoft crosses ₹1,000 Cr revenue milestone; Founder Aditya Krishna continues as Chairman of the Board.

JERSEY CITY, N.J. and CHENNAI, India and LONDON, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Saksoft Limited (NSE: SAKSOFT)  (BSE: 590051), an AI-first digital engineering and transformation partner, today announced the appointment of Gurmeet Chahal as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective October 12, 2026.

Gurmeet Chahal Joins Saksoft as Chief Executive Officer

Gurmeet is the first non-promoter CEO in Saksoft’s 25-year history. His appointment follows a benchmark fiscal performance in which Saksoft crossed ₹1,000 crore in revenue with an 18.6% EBITDA margin—priming the company for its next phase of rapid global expansion. Founder Aditya Krishna will continue to steer the company’s strategic horizon as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Proven Track Record in Global Scale and Enterprise AI

Gurmeet brings over 25 years of global executive leadership building and scaling enterprise technology businesses across North America, Europe, and APAC. Most recently, as founding CEO and Executive Director of Digitide Solutions Limited, he orchestrated its demerger from Quess Corp and its June 2025 public listing on the NSE and BSE as an independent company, while embedding AI-first accelerators and hyperscaler alliances.

Previously, Gurmeet served as Senior Vice President and Global Leader of Digital Transformation Services at Genpact, and incubated and scaled high-growth digital business units at HCLTech and DXC Technology, partnering extensively with global leaders across Financial Services, Healthcare & Life Sciences, Logistics, Telecom and Hi-Tech.

At Saksoft, Gurmeet will drive an aggressive growth agenda—accelerating organic market expansion alongside strategic, capability-led acquisitions to deepen industry niches and scale client impact across the Americas and Europe.

Leadership Perspectives

Aditya Krishna, Founder and Chairman, Saksoft Limited:

“Saksoft was built on trust—the trust of our clients and the dedication of our people. Scaling that trust globally in an AI-driven era requires a proven growth architect. Gurmeet has built large-scale digital businesses at tier-one institutions, led a tech enterprise through a public listing, and fundamentally shares our values. I am thrilled to welcome him to lead Saksoft’s next chapter.”

Gurmeet Chahal, incoming Chief Executive Officer, Saksoft Limited:

“Many leaders build companies; Aditya has built an enduring institution anchored in deep domain mastery, unshakeable values, and extraordinary talent. I am grateful to Aditya and the Board for their trust, and to all Sakians who brought us to this ₹1,000 crore milestone.

AI is fundamentally rewriting enterprise technology. With our ‘inch wide, mile deep’ domain focus, Saksoft is uniquely primed to lead this shift. My mandate is simple: accelerate growth, pursue high-impact acquisitions, and win bigger globally, while fiercely protecting the culture that makes Saksoft special.”

Core Strategic Priorities

  1. AI-First Engineering: Embedding generative and agentic AI across all client solutions and delivery pipelines to shift from linear staffing to high-margin, outcome-driven platforms.
  2. Deepening Core Verticals and Customer Relationships: Expanding wallet share across marquee enterprise accounts in Banking & Financial Services, Logistics, Utilities, Retail/Commerce, and Hi-Tech.
  3. Global Scale & Programmatic M&A: Expanding market share across North America and Europe—which account for ~79% of revenue—backed by targeted acquisitions to secure high-value IP, niche domain depth, and geographic reach.

About Saksoft Limited

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Chennai, Saksoft Limited (NSE: SAKSOFT, BSE: 590051) is an AI-first digital engineering partner helping global enterprises innovate, modernize, and automate. Saksoft delivers advanced capabilities across Generative & Agentic AI, Cloud & Data Engineering, Legacy Modernization, and Quality Engineering to leaders across the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Website: www.saksoft.com

Saksoft Logo

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12, Oct 2026
Tribesigns Joins TikTok’s SOHO CHIC Lifestyle Campaign to Spotlight Fall 2026 Home Trends

NEW YORK, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Tribesigns, a global furniture designer and manufacturer, announced its participation in TikTok’s SOHO CHIC Lifestyle campaign, a Fall 2026 home-living initiative that explores how urban character, layered textures and personal expression are reshaping the modern home.

Appearing alongside established home and family-lifestyle brands including Bedsure and Momcozy, Tribesigns brings a furniture-led perspective to the campaign. Inspired by New York’s SoHo district, the creative direction draws on red-brick streetscapes, cast-iron architecture, fire escapes, gallery culture and clean city lines to create an aesthetic that feels polished, collected and lived-in.

Through celebrity home-tour content the campaign translates the SOHO CHIC look from a trend concept into real living spaces, reflecting a broader shift: consumers increasingly see the home not only as a functional setting, but as an expression of identity, taste and everyday rhythm. In that context, furniture becomes part of the story people tell about how they live.

The Tribesigns JW0908 console table is featured in the campaign’s celebrity home, marking the brand’s first product integration in a home-tour format. Compact and clean-lined, it works as a sofa-side table, entryway piece or accent surface without feeling over-styled. Watch Tribesigns’ SOHO CHIC Lifestyle campaign highlights on TikTok.

Tribesigns participated in TikTok's SOHO CHIC Lifestyle campaign

“A home is more than a place to live; it is an extension of how people choose to live,” said Peter Wang, CEO of Tribesigns. “Working with TikTok on SOHO CHIC Lifestyle gives us a fresh way to connect design inspiration with real homes and real routines. From architectural city lines to gallery-inspired details, the campaign reflects our belief that furniture should help everyone create a space that feels distinctly their own. That is the spirit of our Designed For Life philosophy.”

The campaign also expands Tribesigns’ approach to social-first brand building. By connecting product design, lifestyle storytelling and creator-led discovery, the brand aims to make home inspiration more immediate, relatable and shoppable for U.S. consumers.

Tribesigns offers furniture and home products across living rooms, bedrooms, entryways, dining spaces and home offices. Guided by its Designed For Life philosophy, the brand develops distinctive, accessible pieces that fit naturally into everyday routines while helping consumers express their individual style.

About Tribesigns

Tribesigns is a leading global furniture designer and manufacturer. For more information about Tribesigns, please visit Tribesigns.com and the campaign page,  or follow the brand on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.

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12, Oct 2026
AITO Announces 2027 European Market Entry at Paris Motor Show

PARIS, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — AITO, the luxury intelligent electric vehicle brand from SERES Group, today showcased the AITO 9, AITO 8, AITO 7 and AITO 6 at the 2026 Paris Motor Show. Under the theme “Intelligence Redefining Luxury”, AITO demonstrated how its brand philosophy is brought to life through its products and customer experience. The brand also announced that it will launch in the European market in the autumn of 2027, highlighting its plans for market entry and development across Europe, as it takes another major step in its global development.

AITO showcased the AITO 9, AITO 8, AITO 7 and AITO 6 at the 2026 Paris Motor Show

Preparing for Europe Through Compliance and Localisation

Ahead of its European launch, AITO is laying the groundwork for market integration, with regulatory compliance and localisation at the heart of its preparations. At the product development level, the brand is building on EU Whole Vehicle Type Approval (WVTA) as its foundation, with the goal of achieving a five-star Euro NCAP rating under the 2026 standards, making safety an integral part of every stage. From meeting European regulatory requirements to pursuing higher standards of safety and quality, AITO aims to establish a strong foundation for its entry into the European market through rigorous safety standards. For AITO, safety is the greatest luxury. The brand is committed to providing customers with greater confidence and peace of mind throughout every journey. 

Alongside regulatory requirements, AITO is undertaking comprehensive localisation tailored to European road conditions, driving preferences and local lifestyles. AITO is also working with partners to adapt its intelligent driver assistance and parking assistance for local road conditions and driving scenarios, while developing a localised service network covering intelligent diagnosis, mobility services, local spare-parts supply and dedicated customer service teams. Together, these efforts are designed to provide European customers with an efficient, reliable and seamless ownership experience.

The Foundations Behind AITO’s Journey

AITO’s global development is supported by an integrated foundation of technology and intelligent manufacturing. The core vehicle technology platform behind AITO’s products is the SERES MF Platform, which integrates key capabilities across powertrains, chassis, intelligent central hub, cabin-ADAS integration and intelligent services. Complementing the SERES MF Platform, SERES Super Factory, powered by “Industrial Brain”, brings ecosystem partners across the value chain together, enabling seamless data connectivity and collaboration across information, logistics and technology flows. These capabilities enable product refinement, consistent quality and an enhanced customer experience as AITO expands into new markets.

Recognitions from the market and the industry further consolidate the foundation for the brand’s global development. In its home market, AITO has established a strong reputation for safety, quality and customer satisfaction, earning the trust of over 1.2 million drivers. To date, AITO vehicles have accumulated 40 billion kilometres of driving, including more than 10.6 billion kilometres with intelligent driver assistance. Globally, in the Brand Finance’s Automobiles 100 2026 ranking, AITO is the world’s No.1 Chinese luxury automotive brand by brand value, making it to the top 10 luxury automotive brands list as the only Chinese automotive brand. From customer satisfaction to global recognition, these milestones demonstrate AITO’s track record in the luxury electric vehicle market.

Bringing New Luxury Beyond Borders

Built on the philosophy of “Intelligence Redefining Luxury”, AITO is bringing its approach to intelligent, user-focused automotive experiences to markets around the world. “For AITO, New Luxury is where traditional luxury meets technological luxury,” said Clifford Kang, Board Member and Vice President of SERES Group. “We pair exceptional performance, refined comfort and craftsmanship with cutting-edge intelligence across both our vehicles and services to create a more elevated luxury experience. It is about putting technology to work for people. As we expand globally, we look forward to bringing this philosophy to customers worldwide.”

Clifford Kang, Board Member and Vice President of SERES Group gave the speech

About AITO

Founded in December 2021, AITO is a high-end intelligent electric vehicle brand under SERES Group. Its name stands for “Adding Intelligence to Auto” and embodies the concept of “Intelligence Redefining Luxury”. By combining “Traditional Luxury” and “Technological Luxury”, AITO creates a “New Luxury” experience in the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry.

With outstanding intelligent features and refined luxury quality, it has become the top-selling Chinese luxury car brand in China in 2025. The AITOlineup surpassed one million cumulative deliveries in just 46 months, setting a new delivery speed record for Chinese luxury new energy vehicle brands.

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12, Oct 2026
oneworld Unlocks Enhanced Multi-carrier Digital Check-in Experience Across its Global Network

Technology will enable passport scan and wallet boarding pass via customer’s preferred digital channels

LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — oneworld ® is taking the next step toward simplifying the online travel experience across its global network for customers travelling on multi-carrier journeys. Now available on all carriers across the alliance, the technology offers a simplified check-in process in which customers can scan their passport, receive boarding passes, and save their boarding pass directly to their digital wallet. This enhancement will apply to flights operated by oneworld carriers in their itinerary, irrespective of the first operating carrier.

oneworld alliance

The new check-in enhancement is powered by oneworld’s proprietary technology, which enables different members’ systems to communicate via a shared digital platform.

“Customers expect a consistent, easy-to-use experience with their preferred airline’s check-in tools and they should expect the same when flying on their alliance partners,” said OleOrver, CEO of the oneworld Alliance. “Our members are committed to providing a simplified experience that puts the management of customer journeys at their fingertips and oneworld is prioritising providing this layered technology across every member airline.”

Future phases of the streamlined check-in process will include the ability to check-in on codeshare itineraries and dynamic, up-to-the-minute, boarding passes.

“oneworld’s digital technology is transforming the way customers navigate multi-carrier journeys by giving them the tools they need to manage flights through a powerful data-driven foundation,” said Guido van Til, speaking from the second oneworld Innovation Summit in Lisbon. “As the first alliance to offer digital check-in across all member airline pairings, this milestone underscores oneworld’s commitment to delivering a premium and more intuitive travel experience for global customers who can use their favourite airline app and arrive at the airport ready to fly.”

Below is an example of an American Airlines customer flying from Kuala Lumpur to Dallas-Fort Worth via Tokyo, first on Malaysia Airlines, connecting to American Airlines:

  • The customer completes a single check-in via the American Airlines app, including scanning their passport
  • Operating airline-branded boarding passes, which in this case are Malaysia Airlines and American Airlines, are issued for each flight and can be saved to their digital wallet
  • The customer can go straight to bag-drop or security, without needing to see a check-in agent at the airport

“Malaysia Airlines is proud to be the first airline to adopt this technology, reinforcing its commitment to make travel simpler and more seamless,” said Bryan Foong, chief executive officer of Airline Business from Malaysia Aviation Group. “For customers travelling internationally, this enhanced digital check-in capability brings greater convenience and continuity when connecting with oneworld partner airlines, enabling them to manage more of their journey through their preferred digital channel.”

“As a founding member of oneworld, American is proud to work alongside our alliance partners to deliver a simpler and more intuitive travel experience,” said AnmolBhargava, senior vice president – Global Alliances at American Airlines. “By continuing to listen to customers and collaborate closely with our oneworld partners, we will continue advancing solutions that remove friction from travel. This is another step forward in our shared commitment to creating a more convenient travel experience across the oneworld network.”

About oneworld:

oneworld brings together 15 world-class airlines – Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Fiji Airways, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian and SriLankan Airlines to nearly 1,000 destinations. oneworld member airlines work together to consistently deliver a superior, consistent travel experience, with special rewards and privileges for its frequent flyers, including earning and redeeming miles and points across the entire alliance network, access to airport lounges, priority check in and boarding and extra baggage allowances and more. Learn more about the oneworld Alliance at oneworld.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. 

press@oneworld.com 

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12, Oct 2026
IT’S BACK. THAT’S BIG. The All-Electric smart #2 Makes Its World Premiere at the Paris Motor Show

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — smart today celebrated the World Premiere of the all-new smart #2 at the Paris Motor Show, marking the return of its iconic two-seater for a new electric era.

World Premiere of the all-new smart #2

Thirty years ago, the smart vehicle was presented as an art object beneath the Louvre Pyramid. Today, smart returns to Paris with the fully realised production smart #2.

Mr. Tong Xiangbei, Global CEO of smart, said: “The smart #2 is more than the return of a familiar silhouette; it is a demonstration of what our teams can achieve in the most demanding urban segment. Its World Premiere in Paris, followed by launches in Europe and China, opens an important new chapter for our global product family.”

Mr. Kang Yi, Global CMO of smart, said: “The smart #2 expresses our core D.N.A. in a very pure way: Designed with Love, No Compromise on Safety, and Amazing Drives. It is small in footprint, but big in personality.”

An Icon for a New Generation

Styled by the Mercedes-Benz Global Design Team, the smart #2 translates the character of smart’s iconic two-seater into a contemporary new form, guided by its design philosophy of Love, Pure, Unexpected.

Clean proportions, short overhangs and its signature wheels-at-the-corners stance preserve the pure smart silhouette and maximise space. Unexpected details, including logo-inspired lighting and a contemporary interpretation of the iconic floating roof, reinterpret familiar smart cues.

Inside, bench-style seating and S-shaped cockpit make efficient use of the compact cabin, while carefully considered colours, materials and distinctive details bring warmth and individuality.

The Split Tailgate features an upper glass that opens independently in tight spaces, and a lower section that folds down as a loading platform or a 120-kg capacity seat.

smart #2 Couture Edition: Function becomes Fashion

As a surprise highlight, smart also unveiled the exclusive smart #2 Couture Edition, carrying the established “Function becomes Fashion” theme from concept to production.

smart #2 Couture Edition

Limited to 999 units in Europe and 999 units in China, the Couture Edition combines an Atelier White Matte exterior finish with a contrasting Platinum Gold roof, distinctive gold detailing and exclusive 16-inch Lyra rims. A numbered interior badge further underlines its limited-edition character.

Purpose-Built for Urban Mobility

Underpinning the smart #2 is the newly developed Electric Compact Architecture (ECA) platform, engineered specifically for smart’s ultra-compact all-electric two-seater.

Measuring 2,746 mm in length, the smart #2 maximises usable space within its ultra-compact footprint. The ECA platform brings together intelligent packaging, a floor-mounted high-voltage battery, rear-wheel drive and advanced chassis technology.

Electric Compact Architecture (ECA)

Power comes from a rear-mounted 60 kW electric motor delivering 130 Nm of torque to the rear wheels.

For Europe, the smart #2 features a 35.8 kWh LFP battery, with a target combined WLTP range of 290 km. Supporting 65 kW DC fast charging, the smart #2 can charge from 10% to 80% state of charge within 20 minutes, while AC charging at up to 11 kW supports convenient everyday charging.

A curb-to-curb turning circle of just 6.95 metres makes navigating tight city streets and narrow parking spaces effortless.

The smart #2 features a five-link rear suspension, a first in its class, supporting confident and composed driving both in cities and on highways.

Central to the smart #2, the Tridion Cell Evo creates a robust protective structure around the passenger cabin without compromising the vehicle’s compact dimensions. The vehicle also comes equipped with driver-assistance technologies including smart Pilot Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go and Highway Assist.

The smart #2 Begins Its Global Market Rollout

Following its World Premiere in Paris, early ordering for the smart #2 will begin in Europe and China, bringing smart’s iconic two-seater to two of the brand’s key markets.

For Europe, the smart #2 will initially be offered in three core trim lines — Pure, Pure+ and Premium — alongside the limited Couture Edition.

For China, the smart #2 will be unveiled in Premium and Couture Edition variants.

Market-specific line-ups, pricing, specifications, equipment and availability will be communicated locally.

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12, Oct 2026
HR Path accelerates its Artificial Intelligence strategy with the acquisition of SnapAI

PARIS, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, announces the acquisition of SnapAI, a start-up specialising in Artificial Intelligence and regulatory compliance. This acquisition strengthens HR Path’s expertise in a strategic field for the future of Human Resources and accelerates the development of its AI-based offerings and solutions.

Press Release HR Path SnapAI

Operating in 34 countries with nearly 2,900 employees, HR Path supports companies in transforming their HR function through its three service lines: Advise, Implement and Outsource. Since its creation in 2001, the Group has placed technological innovation at the heart of its development and supports clients in evolving their organisations, processes and HR technologies.

AI: a major opportunity to transform Human Resources

HR Path sees Artificial Intelligence as a major opportunity to transform professions, enhance the employee experience and create new sources of value for companies.

This vision is based on a strong ethos: AI should reduce repetitive tasks, augment teams’ capabilities and free up more time for high-value activities. It also gives employees the opportunity to develop new skills and focus on more rewarding assignments.

To accelerate this momentum, HR Path has created a Task Force dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, bringing together expertise from across the Group to explore AI use cases and opportunities.

HR Path has also recently launched a dedicated AI offering to support clients in their transformation. It includes assessing AI maturity and HR data, identifying and prioritising use cases, transforming HR processes, driving adoption and skills development, and defining roadmaps to generate and measure the value created.

HR Path’s ambition is to make AI a common theme across its entire portfolio: in Advise, to support organisations in defining their AI strategy and transformation; in Implement, to activate and integrate new AI capabilities within HR solutions; and in Outsource, to automate selected activities and continuously improve HR operations.

SnapAI: a new milestone in HR Path’s AI ambition

The acquisition of SnapAI is fully aligned with this strategy. It enables HR Path to strengthen its expertise and accelerate its ability to turn rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence into practical solutions that create value for its clients. AI applications in recruitment, assessment and employee management are among the systems classified as high-risk under the European AI Act. SnapAI’s expertise in governance and compliance enables HR Path to support clients in deploying AI in a way that is both ambitious and controlled.

Contact:

Fabienne LATOUR

Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com

 

SnapAI - HR Path logo

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12, Oct 2026
Vegetable Prices Surge Across Odisha, Household Budgets Come Under Pressure

Bhubaneswar, Oct 12 (UDN): A sharp rise in vegetable prices across Odisha has left consumers struggling to manage their daily household expenses, with several commonly used vegetables selling for Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg in retail markets. The price hike has placed an additional burden on middle-class families already grappling with rising kitchen expenses.

Vegetable Prices Surge Across Odisha, Household Budgets Come Under Pressure

 Representational Image

Brinjal, okra, pointed gourd and bitter gourd are among the vegetables commanding higher prices in markets across the state. Consumers say the sudden increase over the past few days has made even routine vegetable shopping increasingly expensive.

Prices Remain High in Cuttack Markets

At Chhatra Bazaar, one of Cuttack’s major vegetable markets, onions are selling at Rs 60 per kg, while pointed gourd is priced at Rs 80 per kg. Brinjal costs Rs 60 per kg, whereas tomatoes are available at Rs 40 per kg.

Bitter gourd, spine gourd, yardlong beans and okra are also selling at around Rs 60 per kg, adding to the financial strain on consumers.

Bhubaneswar Consumers Face Similar Rates

A similar trend has been reported at Unit-1 Haat in Bhubaneswar. Onions are selling at Rs 60 per kg, while pointed gourd and brinjal are priced at Rs 50 per kg. Tomatoes are available at Rs 40 per kg.

Bitter gourd and okra are commanding prices ranging from Rs 60 to Rs 80 per kg. Spine gourd is selling at Rs 60 per kg, while ridge gourd costs Rs 50 per kg.

With several essential vegetables becoming more expensive, consumers say they are being forced to cut back on purchases or adjust their daily menus to stay within their budgets.

Rainfall, Supply Disruptions Blamed for Price Hike

Prolonged rainfall over the past few days has been cited as one of the reasons behind the price surge. The adverse weather conditions are reportedly affecting crops and disrupting the supply of vegetables to markets across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and other coastal areas of Odisha.

Odisha’s dependence on supplies from other states during certain periods also contributes to price fluctuations, according to Sudhakar Panda, general secretary of the State Business Association.

“Vegetable prices tend to remain high during this season as we depend heavily on supplies from other states. This increases prices. While wholesalers sell vegetables at lower prices, some vendors double the rates, putting consumers under financial pressure,” Panda said.

His remarks point to concerns over the gap between wholesale and retail prices, with consumers bearing the brunt of rising costs at the marketplace.

Middle-Class Families Feel the Pinch

The price rise has become a concern for households trying to balance food expenses with other essential needs. Consumers say their incomes have not increased in line with the rising cost of everyday commodities, making it increasingly difficult to manage monthly budgets.

“The rise in prices of essential commodities, including vegetables, has affected the budget of the middle-income group. While our income has not increased, the prices of kitchen essentials have risen significantly,” a consumer said.

As vegetable prices remain elevated, consumers are hoping for improved supplies and a moderation in retail rates in the coming days. Until then, households across Odisha may continue to feel the pressure of increasingly expensive everyday essentials.

12, Oct 2026
Rayagada Division Landslide Disrupts Rail Services in Odisha; Several Trains Cancelled Till October 21

Koraput, Oct. 12 (UDN): Train services in Odisha’s Rayagada railway division have been disrupted following a landslide between MVG and CTS stations, prompting the East Coast Railway (ECoR) to cancel several trains and modify the routes of others.

Rayagada Division Landslide Disrupts Rail Services in Odisha; Several Trains Cancelled Till October 21

 Representational Image 

According to a railway bulletin, the changes will affect multiple express and passenger services connecting Visakhapatnam, Kirandul, Jagdalpur, Rourkela, Howrah and Bhubaneswar. Passengers travelling on the affected routes have been advised to check the latest service updates before leaving for their journey.

Four Express Trains Cancelled

The following trains have been cancelled for the specified dates:

18515 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Express: October 13 to 20.

18516 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Express: October 13 to 20.

18107 Rourkela–Jagdalpur Express: October 13 to 20.

18108 Jagdalpur–Rourkela Express: October 14 to 21.

Other Trains to Run on Restricted Routes

Several other services will operate with changes to their originating or terminating stations.

18005 Howrah–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.

18006 Jagdalpur–Howrah Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 15 to 22.

18447 Bhubaneswar–Jagdalpur Express: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20.

18448 Jagdalpur–Bhubaneswar Express: Will originate from Koraput from October 14 to 21.

58501 Visakhapatnam–Kirandul Passenger: Will terminate at Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.

58502 Kirandul–Visakhapatnam Passenger: Will originate from Koraput from October 13 to 20, subject to a separate October 13 adjustment.

The affected services will not operate between Koraput and Jagdalpur during the respective periods.

Additional Traffic Block on KK Line

Separately, railway authorities have given in-principle approval for an eight-hour traffic block at DPC Yard on the KK line in the Rayagada division on October 13. The block is linked to the proposed launch of a Limited Height Subway (LHS).

Due to this arrangement, Train Nos. 58501 and 58502, scheduled to operate on October 13, will instead terminate and originate at Araku, respectively, rather than Koraput, as previously notified.

Passengers Advised to Check Updates

Railway authorities have urged passengers to verify train schedules and operational changes before travelling. Updates will be available through station notice boards, public announcement systems, media reports, bulk SMS alerts and official railway websites and apps.

Passengers using the Koraput–Jagdalpur route should pay particular attention to the revised arrangements to avoid inconvenience during the disruption.