by Jason BlountCompanies with technologies that may advance exploration but need a little extra push to finalize development have two new opportunities to partner with NASA to make it over the finish line.
by Jason BlountFord has a collaborative project with researchers at Purdue University on new patent-pending charging technology.
by Jason BlountTesla announced another long term product they’re currently hiring for…a Tesla Bot. Elon Musk says one day it will be a bigger part of Tesla’s business than the electric car. I agree.
by Jason BlountPeter Rawlinson, CEO & CTO of Lucid Motors, cruised around with Jay Leno and talked about the American made electric car that is being built in Arizona. He shared the major components are made in house, including the drivetrain, battery packs, and 100% of the state-of-the-art electric motors.”
by Jason BlountIntel today announced plans for an initial investment of more than $20 billion in the construction of two new leading-edge chip factories in Ohio.
by Jason BlountDETROIT, LONDON and BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 18, 2022 – Ford (NYSE: F) and ADT Inc. (NYSE: ADT) will invest in a new joint venture called Canopy that combines ADT’s professional security monitoring and Ford’s AI-driven video camera technology to help customers strengthen security of new and existing vehicles across automotive brands.
“The combination of our technologies and our deep security experience creates a new category of protection for work and personal vehicles,” said Elliot Cohen, ADT chief business development officer. “Vehicles represent the second-most-valuable asset for consumers, and helping to protect them extends ADT’s safe, smart, and sustainable solutions far beyond the home.”
Canopy plans to launch industry-first, multi-sensor security systems with available professional monitoring early next year. The first products to be manufactured and sold will be available in the U.S. and the U.K. for the industry’s highest-volume commercial and retail pickups and vans – including the Ford F-150, F-150 Lightning, Transit vans and E-Transit – and will be easily installable by customers to protect expensive work and recreational equipment.
“Thieves have been even more active during the pandemic and know business owners store valuable equipment in vehicles, often hauling more than $50,000 of gear. Canopy is here for those who’ve had enough of thefts that threaten their livelihoods,” said Franck Louis-Victor, vice president, Ford New Business Platform. “Key to Ford’s software-led transformation are new ideas such as Canopy and collaborating with other innovators such as ADT, which brings to vehicle security their leadership protecting families, homes, and businesses.”
The FBI estimates[1] that stolen work equipment cost more than $7.4 billion in 2020 in the U.S., and theft of valuable work equipment is believed to be underestimated in stolen vehicle reports. Small business owners face even greater opportunity costs with the deferral or loss of jobs while replacing stolen items.
Canopy also plans to begin integrating camera security solutions in Ford vehicles next year for seamless protection inside and outside vehicles. Canopy will seek factory-vehicle integrations with other automakers over time.
Starting a Vehicle Security Revolution
Canopy’s first smart vehicle security system accessory offering will make use of acoustic sensors for vans, onboard cameras, radar, LTE, and GPS. The initial product will have a camera that can be mounted in either a van’s cargo area or on a pickup facing the bed. The platform will use AI technology to identify and report credible threats while reducing false alarm signals.
ADT monitoring agents can then contact customers, fleet managers, or police to take additional measures to help prevent theft. Credible threats will trigger additional responses, including audible alerts and programmable voice recordings and two-way audio in future updates.
The first-of-its-kind Canopy products will be sold through vehicle dealerships, major retailers, and online. Ford Pro will be an important launch partner delivering these solutions to commercial and government customers of all sizes, helping drive business forward and accelerate productivity at a global scale.
“Commercial customers around the world are laser focused on protecting investments from costly replacements that can impact their bottom lines,” said Ted Cannis, CEO, Ford Pro. “Canopy will help Ford Pro deliver another service to fleets helping to improve total cost of ownership by staying productive and avoiding downtime associated with stolen tools and damaged vehicles – including the majority with mixed fleets since Canopy technology will be available across brands.”
More Innovation to Come
The Canopy team has been developing and testing its first technologies for two years as part of Ford’s New Business Platform innovation incubation group. They will now be headquartered in Detroit and London and led by Interim CEO Christian Moran.
Canopy also will seek relationships with other automotive, insurance, and technology companies to expand offerings, explore insurance benefits for use of the technology, and co-create new innovations.
Ford and ADT’s investment in Canopy is subject to certain conditions, including regulatory approvals, and initial funding is expected to close in the second quarter of 2022. The partners expect to invest approximately $100 million during the next three years.
For more information, visit www.canopy.security
[1] U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Uniform Crime Report.
[2] Requires subscription to ADT professional monitoring tier
by Jason BlountRoss Gerber@GerberKawasaki on twitter writes: Just to note. There has not been one accident or injury since FSD beta launch. Not one. Not a single one. In that time 20k people have died on the road in car accidents. Correct @elonmusk ? (Knock on wood)
Elon Musk responded with “Correct.”
Wow.
InsideEVs reports: Full Self-Driving Beta has been pushed to several thousands of customers since its initial rollout, with members of the fleet of testers being selected by Tesla through its safety test score.
FSD Beta enables the vehicle to drive autonomously to a destination entered in the navigation system, although the driver has to stay vigilant and ready to take control at all times.
We have seen many videos of Tesla cars almost causing a crash while running FSD Beta if it weren’t for drivers overriding the system to avoid a collision. On the other hand, we’ve also seen many videos where FSD Beta saved the day by detecting risks the human driver did not and acting accordingly. – Read More
by Jason BlountZero Motorcycles showcased their electric bikes in Washington D.C. this week.
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Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today announced that it would build a new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor, Texas. The estimated $17 billion investment in the United States will help boost production of advanced logic semiconductor solutions that power next-generation innovations and technologies.
The new facility will manufacture products based on advanced process technologies for application in areas such as mobile, 5G, high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI). Samsung remains committed to supporting customers globally by making advanced semiconductor fabrication more accessible and meeting surging demand for leading-edge products.
“As we add a new facility in Taylor, Samsung is laying the groundwork for another important chapter in our future,” said Kinam Kim, Vice Chairman and CEO, Samsung Electronics Device Solutions Division. “With greater manufacturing capacity, we will be able to better serve the needs of our customers and contribute to the stability of the global semiconductor supply chain.”
“We are also proud to be bringing more jobs and supporting the training and talent development for local communities, as Samsung celebrates 25 years of semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S.,” Kim said.
“In addition to our partners in Texas, we are grateful to the Biden Administration for creating an environment that supports companies like Samsung as we work to expand leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing in the U.S.,” continued Kim. “We also thank the administration and Congress for their bipartisan support to swiftly enact federal incentives for domestic chip production and innovation.”
Groundbreaking will be in the first half of 2022 with the target of having the facility operational in the second half of 2024. The Taylor site will span more than 5 million square meters and is expected to serve as a key location for Samsung’s global semiconductor manufacturing capacity along with its latest new production line in Pyeongtaek, South Korea.
The total expected investment of $17 billion, including buildings, property improvements, machinery and equipment, will mark the largest-ever investment made by Samsung in the U.S. This will also bring Samsung’s total investment in the U.S. to more than $47 billion since beginning operations in the country in 1978, where the company now has over 20,000 employees across the country.
“Companies like Samsung continue to invest in Texas because of our world-class business climate and exceptional workforce,” said Governor Abbott. “Samsung’s new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor will bring countless opportunities for hardworking Central Texans and their families and will play a major role in our state’s continued exceptionalism in the semiconductor industry. I look forward to expanding our partnership to keep the Lone Star State a leader in advanced technology and a dynamic economic powerhouse.”
After reviewing multiple locations within the U.S. for a potential manufacturing site, the decision to invest in Taylor was based on multiple factors, including the local semiconductor ecosystem, infrastructure stability, local government support, and community development opportunities. In particular, the proximity to Samsung’s current manufacturing site in Austin, about 25 kilometers southwest of Taylor, allows the two locations to share the necessary infrastructure and resources.
This latest expansion of Samsung’s U.S. presence is expected to create over 2,000 high-tech jobs directly and thousands of related jobs once the new facility is in full operation. As part of its co-investment in the community, Samsung will also contribute financial support to create a Samsung Skills Center for the Taylor Independent School District (ISD) to help students develop skills for future careers as well as providing internships and recruiting opportunities.
The Honorable John Cornyn, U.S Senator for Texas
“With worldwide supply-chain disruptions, it is imperative that we bolster our domestic production capabilities for industries critical to national security. I am pleased Samsung is expanding their operations to Williamson County which will bring more good jobs to Central Texas as well as help combat the global semiconductor shortage. I will continue fighting in Congress to increase America’s semiconductor manufacturing capacity to support economic growth, secure supply-chains, and ensure long-term national security.”
The Honorable John Carter, U.S. House of Representatives for Texas
“I am proud of the Taylor community, Williamson County, and the Great State of Texas! With Samsung, comes an anticipated 2,000 jobs that will bolster the TX-31 economy and provide opportunities for innovation right here in the heart of Texas,” said Congressman John Carter. “This project represents every level of government coming together to improve local businesses and national security. Texas was the right choice for Samsung and Samsung was the right choice for Texas!”
The Honorable Michael McCaul, U. S. House of Representatives for Texas
“It is imperative to the national security of the United States that we increase our leadership in the future design, manufacturing and development of advanced semiconductor chips. Through increased domestic production we can decrease our reliance on foreign nation adversaries, like Communist China for supply of this critical technology. This move will help alleviate the supply chain shortage, which is impacting everyday Americans. These advanced chips are in everything from your phone, car, to our advanced weapons systems. This is why I introduced the Chips for America Act with Senator John Cornyn to create the framework at the federal level to support increased domestic production of these advanced chips. Of course, there is no better place for this important effort than the great state of Texas. I am thrilled to join Governor Greg Abbott and Senator John Cornyn in congratulating Samsung on its new semiconductor plant in Taylor, TX, which will add thousands of high-paying jobs in the local area and ensure our state is a leader in chip manufacturing.”
The Honorable Greg Abbott, Governor, State of Texas
“Companies like Samsung continue to invest in Texas because of our world-class business climate and exceptional workforce. Samsung’s new semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor will bring countless opportunities for hardworking Central Texans and their families and will play a major role in our state’s continued exceptionalism in the semiconductor industry. I look forward to expanding our partnership to keep the Lone Star State a leader in advanced technology and a dynamic economic powerhouse.”
The Honorable Dan Patrick, Lieutenant Governor, State of Texas
“Semiconductor production is key to American national security, and the fact that Samsung will be producing chips right here in Texas is proof that job creators worldwide know that our state is the best place to grow their business. Samsung’s $17 billion capital investment in Taylor, creating 2,000 direct jobs, is welcome news for the Central Texas community and the Texas economy as a whole. I was happy to support this project because I know that when the Texas economy thrives, Texans thrive.”
The Honorable Dade Phelan, Speaker of the House, State of Texas
“Texas is proud that Samsung has decided to build their most advanced semiconductor manufacturing facility in our State. This historic moment demonstrates the value of our communities working together to advance economic development opportunities that benefit our state, local communities and our citizens.”
The Honorable Charles Schwertner, Senator, State of Texas
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome a global industry leader like Samsung to Taylor,” said Senator Schwertner. “This state-of-the-art facility represents a transformational investment in this community and thousands of new, high-paying jobs for the citizens of Williamson County. The economic growth and opportunity brought on by today’s announcement will ensure that Williamson County remains one of the best places in America to live, work, and raise a family for decades to come.”
The Honorable William Gravell, County Judge, Williamson County, Texas
“It is an incredible opportunity and privilege to have a world class company like Samsung in Williamson County, Texas. Their commitment to employees, the environment and their local community is inspiring, and we are excited for the possibilities this partnership will bring to Taylor and Williamson County. To our friends at Samsung, I want to say ‘Welcome Home.”
The Honorable Brandt Rydell, Mayor, City of Taylor, Texas
“Samsung’s decision to locate its cutting-edge semiconductor fabrication plant in Taylor is the single most significant and consequential development for the local economy since the International & Great Northern Railroad laid tracks here in the 1870’s. The City of Taylor is honored to have been selected by Samsung as the site for this critically important project, and we look forward to a long-lasting and mutually-beneficial relationship between our community and the company.”
Devin Padavil, Superintendent, Taylor Independent School District, Texas
“Taylor ISD and Taylor, Texas are honored and proud to be selected as the home for the new Samsung Semiconductor Plan in North America. Our partnership with Samsung will provide us an opportunity to transform the lives of our students through learning opportunities, internships, resources, and financial support. We are preparing our children to contribute and compete in a global society, and in many ways, Samsung is bringing a global society to them.”
Mark Thomas, Taylor Economic Development Corporation President and CEO
“As one of the largest foreign investment economic development projects in United States history, to say Samsung’s commitment to this project is monumental would be a huge understatement. The Taylor Economic Development Corporation with its partners at Williamson County, the City of Taylor and the Office of the Governor are beaming with pride to bring this important Advanced Chip Manufacturing facility to the City of Taylor, Williamson County, the Austin MSA, State of Texas and the United States of America.”
The Honorable Andy Brown, County Judge, Travis County, Texas
“Today is a good day for Williamson County, Travis County, Central Texas, and the State of Texas as a whole. I applaud Samsung for reaffirming its commitment to invest in our region by selecting the City of Taylor for its second factory location. I am confident the surrounding communities and state will directly benefit from the economic investment. I look forward to working with Samsung as they continue to expand their Central Texas footprint now and in years to come.”
The Honorable Steve Adler, Mayor, City of Austin, Texas
“I’m excited for Taylor and that Samsung’s new investment and jobs will be located in our backyard. Our region’s challenges and our potential no longer stop at local jurisdiction boundaries. As we grow, the victories of Austin and neighboring cities like Taylor benefit our area as a whole and continue to mark us all as a tech hub. This is a great day in what will continue to be a strong local relationship with Samsung.”
The Honorable Jeff Travillion, Commissioner, Travis County, State of Texas
“Samsung continues to be a valuable partner for Travis County and the Central Texas region. By selecting Williamson County and the City of Taylor for the second factory location to compliment the already existing plant in Travis County, Samsung will have the opportunity to expand its reach and investments within our communities. I am ready to continue having productive conversations with Samsung to discuss our shared long-term goals of creating high-quality job opportunities and improving the quality of life for everyone in our region. By working together, we can accomplish these goals.”
Spencer Cronk, City Manager, City of Austin, Texas
“Austin’s 25-year history with Samsung is a valued relationship, and products made in Austin remain in high demand. This expansion in our region will add more jobs for Austinites, create new contract opportunities for local businesses, and spur additional business growth in Austin. We look forward to a continued relationship with Samsung, including opportunities for more expansions of the Austin facility.”
Gary Farmer, Chair of the Greater Austin Economic Development Corporation & Opportunity Austin
“Certainly, everyone in the heart of Texas wants to express incredible thanks and gratitude to Samsung for selecting Taylor, Texas as the site of their newest global semiconductor fabrication plant. Samsung’s decision to invest in Central Texas places this new facility in an area rich in talent, innovative approaches and with a deep understanding of the semiconductor industry and related supply chain. Samsung has long been a tremendous partner in our community and we are so fortunate to have them continue to invest in Central Texas.”
Laura Huffman, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce President & CEO
“Samsung has clearly now demonstrated to the world what it thinks of our region, the people that make up our workforce and the innovative spirit of our business community. We are ecstatic about the thousands of jobs— both permanent and construction — that will be created by this project and the untold opportunities that will be a result of this announcement. This is a momentous day and I know our region will rise to the occasion as it has done countless times over the past two decades.”
Tony Bennett, Texas Association of Manufacturers President & CEO
“The new Samsung semiconductor plant will invigorate this region’s economy and generate tremendous opportunities for this community for generations to come. The project will create thousands of high-quality jobs, generate millions of dollars in state and local tax revenue every year, and attract additional vendors and suppliers that will want to locate near the Samsung facility – creating multiple more jobs and added tax wealth to ripple through the region’s economy. Global competition is steep for advanced manufacturing projects of this caliber and the City of Taylor and Williamson County have certainly achieved a most-coveted prize. Congratulations to the community, and to Samsung, for making this huge opportunity a reality.”
Ed Latson, Austin Regional Manufacturing Association
“Samsung’s selection of Taylor for a new multibillion-dollar plant is a huge win for all of Central Texas. A facility of this magnitude is a generational investment that will make a dramatic economic impact in the community and change lives by creating high-paying jobs for Texans at all education levels. And the technology being produced will keep us at the leading edge of innovation in electronics.”
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.
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by Jason BlountListen in on my interview with Paul Vosper, who is the CEO of JuiceBarEV, a U.S. manufacturer of EV charging stations.
Installed across the country already, including municipality and fleet contracts, the growth of this company seems to be sustainable for years to come as the EV charging industry is still at the ground level.
Mr. Vosper is a currently Forbes Council Member, former VP of PIMCO, former COO with Morgan Stanley Real Estate Partner Division, and has held the CEO title for JuiceBarEV since 2018.
My initial question was about the domestic production that was touted in their latest press release. “We are able to get the majority of major components from U.S. suppliers and half of those suppliers are within a 75 mile drive of our manufacturing facility in Connecticut.” – Paul Vosper, President of JuiceBarEV
Having interviewed many executives with each story intriguing me for different reasons, this was one of the most gripping so far to me. I sat in my Tesla in amazement as he shares the type of EV future he is seeing.
There could have been a lot better technical questions, so I’ll be asking some of you to help me for the next time I get a chance to interview him.
Working with the Ford Lightning and partnering with Ford, Paul also mentions a modular EV work truck, and the coming 750+ miles of charging capacity that future vehicles will have…
Juice Bar EV is a provider of premium electric vehicle charging station and the Green Garage Oasis Amenity Center. Our mission is to deliver an iconic product and a premium electric vehicle charging experience; providing value, freedom of payment choice, and technological innovation. We aim to provide facility owners the most customizable EV charging stations.
Go to JuiceBarEV.com to learn more about installing a JuiceBar in your fleets garage, government building, office, hotel, and more.