Plan to Strengthen EV Ecosystem in North America

Plan to Strengthen EV Ecosystem in North America

The MIH Consortium, an initiative by Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), announced at CES 2023 that it will be establishing an Innovation Hub near the Foxconn facility in Ohio. The Innovation Hub will bring together global supply chain partners to share expertise and collaborate on electric vehicle (EV) and Mobility projects, as well as new technologies and solutions for automakers. This effort aims to accelerate EV innovation and revitalize American manufacturing. By leveraging Foxconn's resources and infrastructure in the United States, MIH is creating an EV ecosystem that spans the entire development process.

At CES 2023, MIH brings together automakers such as Lordstown Motors, INDI EV, and Monarch Tractor to showcase a range of EV applications, including commercial fleets, consumer vehicle with entertainment and gaming, and agricultural innovation, demonstrating the versatility of its ecosystem and its potential to serve a wide range of markets and industries.

"MIH is not only a pioneer in the open EV platform, but also an expert in the automotive supply chain," said Jack Cheng, CEO of MIH Consortium. "There are many emerging EV brands in the US market that need the support of diverse supply chain partners. MIH can bring together top partners from around the world, allowing OEMs to communicate directly and break the hierarchical model of the traditional automotive industry. This will help accelerate the development and mass production of new EVs."

The Midwest plays a significant role in the global automotive industry. As the world shifts towards EVs and new mobility services, the region's abundance of talented workers and automotive supply chain will bring new opportunities for the U.S. auto industry and economic development. Foxconn has two factories in the US. The one in Wisconsin, at this stage, mainly focuses on ICT products and can be used as a development hub for the EV industry in the future. The one in Ohio primarily focuses on manufacturing the Lordstown Motors commercial pickups and other vehicles. "These two factories are located along an automotive corridor that spans several states in the Midwest, which will help drive the development of the entire supply chain," said Jack Cheng. "By leveraging the resources of Foxconn, the MIH will be able to greatly deepen and broaden its partnerships in the North American ecosystem."

MIH also sees significant potential in the B2B/B2B2C market in working with fleet operators and mobility service companies to explore new user experiences in areas such as delivery, logistics, and more. The first step in this effort, announced at MIH Demo Day in November 2022, will be to create a three-seater vehicle called Project X, followed by the launch of six-seater and nine-seater models for the North American market.

At CES 2023, the MIH Consortium partners with several key companies to showcase its latest solutions. These partners include TomTom, a leading mapping and navigation company; VicOne, a company specializing in vehicle cybersecurity; Foxconn Industrial Internet (FII), a provider of smart manufacturing and industrial internet solutions; GIS, which focuses on touch technology; and TIER IV, a leader in autonomous driving. Together, these companies are actively pursuing the significant business opportunities in the North American EV market.

Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), a global leader in smart manufacturing, introduced MIH, its software and hardware open platform for EVs, in 2020 and initiated the formation of the MIH Consortium in 2021. Foxconn aims to position MIH as the "Android system of the EV industry." Foxconn is inviting automakers, manufacturers, and supply chain partners to join the MIH to collaborate. MIH's mission is to lower barriers to entry into the EV industry, accelerate innovation, and shorten development cycles by realizing key technologies and developing reference designs and standards. Currently, the MIH has more than 2,500 members.

Coastal Mississippi Invites Visitors to Stay

Coastal Mississippi Invites Visitors to Stay

New tourism campaign encourages travelers to extend their trip, and their budget, with seasonal itineraries and exclusive discounts.

Coastal Mississippi, the Convention and Visitors Bureau for the tri-county region of the Mississippi Gulf Coast announces the launch of One More Day of Play, a year-long initiative to encourage visitors to extend their weekend trips to the region by one more day. Research shows that by traveling on Monday instead of Sunday, consumers can save at the gas tank (GasBuddy, 2022) and on airfare (NerdWallet, 2022). By extending their stay, visitors can not only make more memories but save even more money through seasonal itineraries, and exclusive discounts at some of the area's top lodging, attractions, and retailers.

"The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers visitors a robust variety of vacation opportunities throughout our 13 charming and beautiful coastal communities, each offering their own unique brand of southern hospitality. Seasonal festivals, attractions, gaming, eco-tourism and so much more can be found throughout the year, not to mention fabulous Gulf-to-table seafood at every turn." said Pattye Meagher, Director of Communications and Engagement at Coastal Mississippi CVB. "If there's a traveler on your list this holiday season, we encourage you to give them, and yourself the gift of 'One More Day of Play' in Coastal Mississippi."

While new offerings will be released throughout 2023 on CoastalMississipi.com, Coastal Mississippi is kicking off the program with some seasonal offerings, exclusive discounts and incentives for visitors who stay one more day.

Holiday Experiences & Events

During the 2022 holiday season, Coastal Mississippi sees the return of many annual events and experiences sparking the holiday spirit across its 62-mile shoreline. Visitors traveling to the region can experience One More Day of Play this season with festive activities, including: Christmas cruises with a firework show and Live Christmas music in Downtown Biloxi. The crowd-favorite Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival or a holiday-themed Ghost and Cemetery Walk to see historic Bay St Louis in a unique way. One of the South's most anticipated holiday displays at Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, known for turning its property into a beachfront winter wonderland with a variety of entertainment and special events, including Finding Christmas, a Broadway-style musical following a young duo who set out on a quest to find the true meaning of Christmas. The Rock'n Christmas Costume Party on Dec. 15 with a special One More Day of Play promo code to receive a free, exclusive gift at the door.

For those looking to enjoy one more day of play after the holiday season, Coastal Mississippi welcomes visitors with an array of ongoing activities, providing the opportunity to enjoy one more day of play year-round.

Gaming, Entertainment & Culture

Travelers can feel the excitement of Coastal Mississippi's robust gaming industry and wealth of entertainment options thanks to various offerings, including: Twelve world-class casino resorts welcoming visitors year-round with gaming, live entertainment, luxury lodging and delicious culinary experiences, including a stay 3 or more nights and save 10% offer from Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Biloxi. Many live music and nightlife venues, such as The Juke Joint and Sipps Bars. A multitude of museums, including a buy one, get one 50% off offering at the Infinity Science Center.

Signature Culinary & Sustainability

Coastal Mississippi's culinary scene is booming with a vast array of award-winning cuisine, nationally recognized chefs, and an overall effort to celebrate, preserve and protect its environment. Offerings from the region include: Quaint seafood spots featuring Gulf-fresh seafood with a view and sustainable fine dining with a farm-to-table approach. Local coffee shops and bakeries invite visitors to enjoy one more day of play with special incentives, like buy one, get one half price offering at Perks Coffee Shop & Café.

Outdoor Adventures & Family Fun

Coastal Mississippi offers unique outdoor and family fun experiences for visitors of all ages with an abundance of exploration, including: Hands-on, educational attractions and excursions throughout the designated National Heritage Area. Seasonal ticket pricing at the Mississippi Aquarium, starting at $19.95. A special free offering for a tandem kayak for two at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

About Coastal Mississippi: Coastal Mississippi is an organization charged with promoting South Mississippi as a tourism and convention destination worldwide. Its mission centers on attracting ever-increasing numbers of leisure, convention, sports, and business visitors to the area. It is dedicated to maximizing the travel and tourism industry for South Mississippi.

The Williams Tennis Star Cast

The Williams Tennis Star Cast

Have you watched a U.S. Open tennis game? Then you've probably seen Venus and Serena Williams. Undoubtedly, these siblings are among the most successful players of all time. How did they succeed? Who is their famous coach, Richard Williams? Richard Williams- born in 1949- was no stranger to tough times. He grew up in the South of the U.S. during the Civil Rights era. Despite being born into poverty, Williams became an incredibly successful tennis coach. He's responsible for shaping some of the best players of all time- including Andre Agassi, Serena and Venus Williams.

Ever since the early 1970s, Richard Williams has been regarded as one of the most successful tennis coaches in the United States. As noted, he's the father of Venus and Serena Williams. He's trained other world-class tennis players such as Taylor Dent, Alexandra Stevenson and Sloane Stephens. While some are sceptical of William's unconventional coaching methods, he's consistently produced champions, earning praise from fellow tennis coaches around the world. Richard went from rags to riches through his career as a coach; he later became an iconic figure in U.S. tennis history.

Williams has achieved what many consider impossible; he has turned his daughters, Venus and Serena, into the greatest female tennis players. Richard Williams, also known as Mr Tennis, grew up on the rough streets of Compton, California; obviously, he had a tough childhood. His mother raised him after his father left when he was two years old. Hence, Williams spent much of his time on the streets and in gangs.

His daughters, Venus and Serena Williams, became number 1 players in their sport. Remarkably, they were once ranked #1 and #2 in the world (albeit at different times). Interestingly, Richards once grew up in Louisiana, relatively far from the tennis powerhouses of New York and California. Williams had never played tennis until he was 32 years old. Yes, Richard didn't even know how to play tennis when he met Oracene Price, the girls' future mother and one of the top-ranked female players in America at the time.

As the father of Serena and Venus, Richard's role in the success of his daughters cannot be underestimated. Together with Oracene, Richard eventually raised Serena and Venus to become two of the greatest athletes in history; they've won more Grand Slam titles between them than any other women's doubles team.

The United States has produced some of the world's most successful tennis stars. Many enjoy a lavish lifestyle. The athletes earn millions of dollars in prize money and endorsements; they live in luxurious mansions- some own private jets. The stars are followed by adoring fans and pampered by the best coaches and trainers. It's a lifestyle most people can only dream of. But it's all part of being a tennis star in the United States. Consider Venus Williams, the world-famous athlete and famous tennis idol Serena Williams's sister.

Venus owns multiple homes, including lavish estates, and enjoys some of the finest things in life. From designer clothes to other luxuries, Venus Williams lives a life of opulence and privilege. However, her career has not been without its challenges. She has suffered injuries, including a tear in her right elbow that caused her to miss a Wimbledon tournament. Despite these challenges, Williams has remained one of the top tennis players in the world. She's a multiple Olympic gold medalist. Yes, Venus' story is one of personal and professional success in adversity.

While some may say she is spoiled or entitled, Venus has worked hard for her success. She's been a professional tennis player for over 20 years. Her accomplishments on the court are unmatched; Venus has won multiple Grand Slam titles and Olympic medals. She ranks among the most famous athletes in the world. Venus' luxurious lifestyle is a vivid testament to her success. From her homes to her cars to her clothes, Venus Williams lives a life of luxury that few can match; she's earned every penny she has.

Venus enjoys spending time at her home and driving when she's not on the tennis court. She's also known to take her vehicles out for a spin on the open road from time to time. Venus Williams is a successful businesswoman; she's built a considerable property portfolio. Unsurprisingly, Venus owns several homes across the United States. She has a luxury apartment in Dubai. Venus has a particular fondness for Los Angeles; she has owned several properties there, including a lavish mansion in Hollywood Hills worth some $2 million.

American Clean Power Week 2022

american-clean-power-week-2022

During a time of historic legislative action that will turbocharge the domestic clean power industry, the American Clean Power Association today kicked off American Clean Power Week. This annual celebration of wind, solar, energy storage, and transmission recognizes the many ways that homegrown, affordable, and reliable clean energy is building a better future for the United States.

This year's theme for the week is "Building the Clean Energy Economy," highlighting clean energy technologies through numerous in-person and virtual events with elected officials, industry leaders, and members of the public across the country.

"With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, there couldn't be a better time to celebrate the transformational role of clean energy in building a better America," said Heather Zichal, ACP CEO. "American Clean Power Week demonstrates how clean energy creates good-paying jobs – along with economic and health benefits – for Americans in red, blue, and purple states. Throughout the week, ACP and our member companies will highlight the work being done across the country to build our clean energy economy and educate the public on the benefits this homegrown industry will continue to bring to our country across the next decade."

During American Clean Power Week, cities and states across the country will be recognizing the week through official proclamations, local and state leaders will be presented with Clean Power Champion Awards, and ACP member companies will highlight the benefits their projects bring to their communities through public events and education campaigns. Throughout the week the American Clean Power Association will be cataloging events live on its website.

Land-based wind, offshore wind, solar, transmission, and energy storage are key climate solutions that will help meet our national carbon-free power goals by 2035 while providing good-paying jobs to Americans across the country.

The clean energy industry employs nearly 443,000 Americans – and is poised to more than double the workforce. The renewable energy industry has invested more than $412 billion in the U.S. economy and local communities, and $600 billion of additional investment will be made as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act.

"From Hawaii to West Virginia, the people we serve tell us they want to see us meet their needs with energy that's affordable, that creates jobs in their communities, and that preserves their environment," said Craig Cornelius, ACP Board Chair and CEO of Clearway Energy Group. "The most historic climate and clean energy legislation to ever make its way through Congress will make it possible to deliver on those goals. We're proud to be a part of our country's growing clean energy workforce and celebrate American Clean Power Week by shining light on how it impacts everyday Americans."

The American Energy Transformation – The Inflation Reduction Act is a monumental shift in the county's clean energy future. The IRA is estimated to add an additional 525-550 gigawatts of clean power projects built from 2022-2030, which will bring enough clean energy online to power every American home by 2030. This will mean lower consumer energy prices across the board for Americans with annual average savings around $1,000 per household.

Community Investment and Job Creation – Clean power drives investment into local economies and creates good paying jobs employing nearly 443,000 Americans across the country. With the passage of the IRA the clean energy workforce will more than double, adding another 550,000 jobs to the American workforce, employing nearly 1 million Americans by 2030. Renewables energy projects provide states and localities with critical revenue that allows communities the ability to plan and invest in their future. Clean power projects pay an estimated $1.3 billion in state and local taxes providing enough new income to repair roads, invest in schools, and fund essential services.

Energy Transition for All – The energy transition is an unparalleled opportunity to create a better future for everyone by offering economic growth and opportunities for investment and innovation, alongside greater access to clean and affordable energy. The clean power industry has a broad range of programs that are working to increase the participation of diverse and underrepresented populations in the industry. The industry is also proud to employ veterans in the wind and solar sectors at rates 50% and 33% respectively higher than the national average.

Reliability and Energy Security – Renewable energy is a reliable and increasing source of homegrown power for Americans across the country. Renewable energy sources are essential to the country's electricity mix, consistently providing a significant portion of American electricity. Grids across America would not be able to meet today's demand without renewables.

Building a Better Future – Clean power is building a better future for our planet. Transitioning to zero-carbon energy sources – like land-based wind, offshore wind, and solar – will help drive the clean energy economy forward while also benefiting our planet by reducing the carbon pollution produced by conventional generation sources.

Clean Power Champion Award Recipients

The Clean Power Champion Awards are conferred to elected officials that have propelled the clean energy industry forward through policy and leadership. The 2022 Champion Award winners advocated for onshore wind, offshore wind, solar, energy storage, and transmission and helped support clean, homegrown, and reliable energy that will power our country and economy. This year's recipients include, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Sen. Thomas Carper (D-DE), Sen. Michael Crapo (R-ID), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM), California State Senator Robert M. Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys), Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV), Texas State Representative Donna Howard (D-Austin), Rep. Bill Keating (D-MA) , Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC), Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR).

 American Clean Power is the voice of the clean power industry that is powering America's future, providing cost-effective solutions to the climate crisis while creating jobs, spurring massive investment in the U.S. economy and driving high-tech innovation across the nation. We are uniting the power of America's renewable energy industry to advance our shared goals and to transform the U.S. power grid to a low-cost, reliable and renewable power system.