Month: November 2023

Strategic Shift: 55% of CISOs Now View Cybersecurity as Top Priority

The issues that Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) encounter are changing dramatically in the ever-changing cybersecurity world. Stott & May’s Cyber Security in Focus report for 2023 offers a comprehensive look at the trends impacting CISOs, shining a light on the industry’s most urgent concerns. Notably, this year’s survey reveals a significant strategic shift, with 55% of CISOs now identifying cybersecurity as their top priority, a break from previous worries.

One of the report’s significant findings is the increasing significance of budget restrictions as the principal barrier to implementing cybersecurity roadmaps. Over the last year, there has been a significant 16% year-on-year rise in CISOs citing financial constraints as their top challenge. This move is representative of a wider industry trend in which economic concerns force security officials to accomplish more with fewer resources.

The scarcity of internal capabilities is a continuous concern for CISOs, as emphasised by 34% of survey respondents. A startling 66% of security leaders say sourcing personnel is a significant challenge, emphasising the continued difficulty of locating and keeping skilled individuals in the area. Organisations are wrestling with the requirement to bolster their defences against an increasingly complex threat landscape as demand for cybersecurity knowledge continues to exceed supply.

The roadblocks to effective plan implementation are numerous, ranging from internal talent gaps to gaining leadership backing and building a security-centric culture. What sticks out in the present scenario, however, is the rising effect of economic issues, which forces CISOs to manage their cybersecurity projects with limited finances.

According to this year’s Cyber Security in Focus poll, money restrictions have eclipsed internal capabilities as the top impediment to plan implementation, with 51% of security leaders citing budgetary constraints as their primary impediment. Internal skills, while still a major issue for 34% of CISOs, have taken a second seat to the acute financial difficulties that organisations worldwide confront. Board-level buy-in (11%) and technology (3%) are also mentioned as hurdles by the CISOs polled.

The cybersecurity talent shortage is a chronic issue, with 66% of security leaders failing to fill open jobs inside their organisations. Alarmingly, approximately 69% of security openings remain vacant even after an 8-week period, highlighting the severity of the skills shortage.

The rising expectation of wage levels in the cybersecurity arena is exacerbating the personnel scarcity. A significant 47% of CISOs say that salaries have climbed by more than 11% year on year, while another 31% estimated salary inflation is between 6 and 10%. The competitive market for cybersecurity specialists is heating up, causing organisations to rethink their remuneration structures in order to recruit and retain top personnel.

Strategic cybersecurity investment remains a priority but with limited flexibility for innovation. A significant 44% of CISOs report that their budgets will either remain the same or decrease, emphasising the importance of resource allocation. Only 53% feel security expenditure is keeping up with digital business expectations, indicating a possible divergence between security goals and organisational strategy.

In terms of investment priorities, CISOs are focusing on cloud security (25%), identity and access management (IAM) (20%), and security and vulnerability management (18%). These goals demonstrate a thorough understanding of the changing threat landscape and the need to strengthen defences in key areas.

 

A notable shift in viewpoint may be seen as CISOs try to link cybersecurity with larger business initiatives. Moreover, 60% of respondents believe that the security function improves the total value proposition to clients. This change highlights the evolution of cybersecurity from a technical requirement to a strategic imperative that directly contributes to corporate objectives.

The Cyber Security in Focus study is a yearly in-depth investigation that draws insights from a high-quality sample of 60 CISOs and security professionals. The report, which was sourced from Stott and May’s professional network across EMEA and North America, combines quantitative research with qualitative interviews with key industry professionals. 

In the fast-expanding realm of cybersecurity, Haris Pylarinos, Founder & CEO of Hack The Box, emphasises the need to be outward-looking and ensure internal capabilities remain current. Crossbeam’s CISO, Chris Castaldo, underlines the need to know the company as a critical barrier to successful cybersecurity roadmap implementation.

Ultimately, the 2023 Cyber Security in Focus study presents a complete picture of the problems and possibilities that CISOs face. The industry’s transformation, driven by fiscal limitations, personnel shortages, and the requirement to connect security measures with larger business plans, has resulted in a strategy shift towards cybersecurity as a primary priority. As CISOs face these issues, intelligent decision-making and creative solutions will be essential in navigating the complicated and evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Tech Review – Creative Zen Hybrid Pro SXFI Headphones

Gaming headphones are a big deal these days and there is plenty on the market to pick from and come in all price brackets so there is something for everyone here, As a user of Creatives products some years it is a brand I know I can trust with their audio products and even not being the huge gamer I once was and now a casual user  with all the consoles, Creative is a brand you will most likely see on my big head be it headphones or earbuds for gaming and not only gaming but audio in general as they are well build solid products offering you great value for money and more via their apps which enhances any experience.

The Creative Zen Hybrid Pro SXFI boasts an array of core features, including Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation and Ambient Mode, giving users the flexibility to fully immerse themselves in their audio or stay attuned to their surroundings with modes that seamlessly adapt to any environment. It also comes equipped with custom-tuned 40 mm, powerful yet light Neodymium drivers, which ensure every note is reproduced with power and precision, delivering a rich and captivating sound experience. We take a look at all this in the video review below and also the apps which gives you enhancements like no other and I tested these on my machines here at home to see what is on offer this time around.

The build quality again is robust and solid yet lightweight which for the more avid gamer is critical, the soft cups rest nicely on the ears and the headband is comfortable as well you also get a removable mic which for me is the best option to go over the fixed ones we see as it is something I personally would not use much as I game on my own rather than go into multiplayer online rooms etc.

You get the RGB effects thrown into the  mix too which gives a little flair to what otherwise looks like a regular set of gaming headphones and makes these stand out and the look sleek and clean, you also have other controls on them too such as the power on/off which doubles as a broadcast search and pairing mode, mic mute control, volume wheel and ANC/Ambient control button and trust me the ANC on with the volume maxed out you will hear nothing outside, I mean nothing. Within the SXFI app you have EQ settings and the magic SXFI can be turned on and off. You also get music controls such as play and pause skip and reverse tracks so you can use these not only for gaming but your music and it all plays out well.

RGB Lights on the headphones

The sound is what people are after lets get to it, You need to do the head mapping it only takes a few minutes and you will need someone to help you, you have an EQ to suit your needs and two apps to use what more do you want here, the ANC is great the volume is LOUD and when gaming you wont miss a beat or a footstep and if you do use the mic it works well I done a quick test for audio and it was well received after calling up a buddy or two to waste their time for a few mins to test the headphones, they dont mind and know what I am like but sorry lads no time for gaming right now. BUT that is going to change going forward.

For the money you will fork out here you are onto a winner in short with plenty of features and great audio no matter what they might be plugged into.

The Apps 

For the money you will fork out here you are onto a winner in short with plenty of features and great audio no matter what they might be plugged into.

BUY

Video Review 

DAACI Announces Natural Series: a highly anticipated product roadmap launching with their first editing tool ‘Natural Edits’

DAACI launches ‘Natural Series’, a comprehensive product portfolio, that will see the release of plugins, music tools and editing technology released over the next year, kicking off with ‘Natural Edits’, a powerful music editing tool for the global sync market to make any track instantly adaptive.

The Natural Series has evolved from DAACI’s development of patented AI and musician-led core technologies. Each element will satisfy the needs of different audiences and use cases, from creators who want to enhance their process, to Music Rights Holders looking for solutions that satisfy the rapidly growing demand for creating personalised music experiences.

The first element in the Natural Series is Natural Edits, now available to Rights Holders within the global sync market. Future elements of the series will include Natural Sync which will enable any type of user, with any ability to create new track edits against films, to supercharge the creative process. DAACI is also beta testing their first plugin for producers and composers.

DAACI’s CEO Rachel Lyske comments: “From the beginning of our journey, we have been on a mission, working on our core technology, the brain of DAACI, to build a solid, ambitious ecosystem. Our ethical, artist-led approach has been welcomed by our partners and the music industry and we’ve been eagerly asked when there will be products to test, ‘buttons to press’. Now we have them. The time is right to put these tools into the hands of users and introduce people to ‘the DAACI way’, and we can’t wait to hear what people will create with them.”

About Natural Edits

Natural Edits brings powerful, patented music editing technology to Rights Holders and their Licensees within the global sync market. By embedding Natural Edits into their entire catalogues within their existing web-based platforms, Rights Holders can enable internal and external users to engage with a track at a level of detail and control as never before. Natural Edits can also be added to web-based platforms incrementally with functionality initially added to a small number of test tracks, then smoothly scaled up. To support this, DAACI will provide a fast, simple API that Music Rights Holders’ web-based platforms can use to dynamically query which tracks are supported and place an ‘Edit’ button on them.

From the moment they begin considering a track, users will be exposed to the track’s latent potential to fit countless contexts from looping beds for background music, to topped-and-tailed snippets for adverts, extended pieces for arbitrary length videos, and precise edits matching specific narratives and music briefs.

Natural Edits enables any user of any skill level to create and deliver a personalised edit of any track in a few simple clicks, driving discoverability and, just as importantly, licence potential of a track.

Natural Edits has already been adopted by music platforms including Pure Sync. Julian Goodkind, CEO of Pure Sync says: “Pure Sync are delighted to be incorporating Natural Edits. We see this as a pivotal moment in our adoption and utilisation of Ethical AI tools. This elevates and amplifies our creative capabilities as Music Supervisors within the Sync world, to deliver more creatively, efficiently and cost effectively.”

DAACI invites Music Rights Holders to enquire about Natural Edits integration at hello@daaci.com.
To find out more, or to sign up for future beta testing visit: daaci.com

Minister Michael McGrath launches This City Works, marking the expansion of Google’s Local Employment Task Force

Minister Michael McGrath TD was joined by Adaire Fox-Martin, Head of Google Ireland in St Andrews Resource Centre, Pearse Street in Dublin to announce the launch of This City Works, a newly expanded programme that helps long-term unemployed people to find sustainable employment solutions.

The launch of This City Works represents the next stage in the evolution of Google’s Local Employment Task Force. Established in 2020 by Google’s Community Affairs team in collaboration with local community employment, training and education services, the Employment Task Force aims to find sustainable employment solutions for long-term unemployed people and provide them with training, education and development opportunities.

The task force is made up of a diverse coalition of community experts who are identifying ways to drive inclusive economic growth in Dublin. Members include St Andrews Resource Centre Employment and Training Hubs, Ringsend Community Services Forum, Inner City Renewal Group, The Anchorage Project, Ringsend & District Response to Drugs, Irish Nautical Trust, Department of Social protection, Dublin City Council, the Fair Play project, City of Dublin Education Training Board and Google Ireland. This year, the task force welcomed two new members; the Dublin Port Company and Dublin Waste to Energy. In recognition of the expanding partnership the Employment Task Force is today rebranding to the name – This City Works.

Attendees at the event had the opportunity to meet community representatives and participants in the current Employment Task Force as well as seeing a video showcase of programme case studies.

Speaking at the event, Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Finance said:

“The impact that has been made by Google’s Employment Task Force is truly commendable. This is a unique programme, one that has been driven by the local community for those who live there. I am delighted to officially announce the launch of This City Works today, representing the expansion of the Task Force. I want to thank Google and all of the expert partners for their continued commitment to this important work.”

Adaire Fox-Martin Head of Google Ireland said:

“I am proud to be here today as we expand the Employment Task Force and see it evolve to This City Works. Google has been part of the Ringsend and Pearse Street community for over 20 years now, and we remain committed to helping create meaningful, sustainable and long-term employment for members of our local community. Today’s announcement is testament to the positive impact that this programme has, and I want to commend those involved, our community partners, those in Government and most importantly our participants – it is a joy to recognise the potential and to celebrate the achievements of this group.”

Also announced today was the creation of a dedicated website for This City Works at this cityworks.withgoogle.com. Created by Google, the site is a one stop shop for job seekers and those seeking to enhance their skills or change career path. The site also provides information for businesses seeking staff or for those curious about training and support services in their community.

Blake Hodkinson Director of Further Education – City of Dublin Education Training Board and Employment task force representative, said,

“This City Works is an important initiative, one that brings together people, businesses and community groups to provide support like mentoring and skills training to local unemployed people. I am delighted to be here as we mark the expansion of the programme and would like to officially welcome our two newest members, the Dublin Port Company and Dublin Waste to Energy. This City Works is a fitting new name for this programme, the positive impact we see in the local community is remarkable, this initiative works!”

Created and enabled by Google, This City Works is an initiative that is driven by the local community and made up of Google representatives, community based training employment and education services, local businesses, Dublin City Council and the Department of Social Protection. Today’s announcement follows a commitment of over €500,000 by Google in 2021 at the launch of the Employment Task Force and a further €300,000 funding provided by Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google in 2022.

Tech Review – Tranya Nova Lite earbuds

The Tranya Nova Lite are the lite version of the Tranya Nova we recently reviewed here and look similar to each other on the outside, the colour on this model though is better than the dark navy one and for me the best looking of the duo however this is down purely to my choice and my choice alone and it does look good.

So does the lite version lack in many ways to the original Nova earbuds, not so much but cheaper and sound almost as good and look good so for the money there is little to give out about really as now the entry level earbuds today have come a long way when it comes to features and these are no different and also come with an app.

The design and build is familiar however they settle well in the years and will not fall out and are comfortable to wear for several hours and for the gamers this will be great to coincide with the game mode option present so it will enhance the gaming experience which for me is little use but tried it out and works well.

The audio experience again here is great at the price point and being the Lite version you have EQ settings to toggle with to get that perfect sound for you and also the earbuds are fully customizable with their control options again nodding up to 5 taps to set a control if wish to do so, for me 4 is more than enough. The audio is great, crisp and clear you have bass and sliders to adjust the tone, highs lows and mids are fine and overall a decent audio experience and no tinny sound or distortion maxed out and again being the lite version you might expect this but it is not the case here at all.

The App

Tranya Nova Lite App – techbuzzireland

Features 

IPX5 rated – For the active audiophile.Rain, sweat and splashes pose no threat to the Tranya Lite. An inspiring sonic companion for your run, hike, bike or workout.

Low latency – With ultra-low 38ms latency, synchronized audio-visuals offer an immersive gameplay experience.

Dual device connection – Effortlessly connect to two devices simultaneously, whether it’s your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Seamlessly switch between calls and grooves without missing a beat. Stay in the rhythm of your work and play, all while enjoying the pristine sound quality you deserve.

Custom EQ App – EQ settings to transform your playlist into an auditory delight using the Tranya Audio app. Empowering you with enhanced control over your music, our app lets you finely tune your sound to match your preferences. Effortlessly maneuver the sliders and craft a sound that resonates with your unique taste.

Tranya Nova Lite earbuds and case – techbuzzireland

12 mm Drivers – Immerse yourself in audio as if you’re at the forefront. Equipped with 12mm speakers, coupled with Nova Lite’s ergonomic design, we bring you expansive sound. The substantial driver and bass duct collaborate to produce resonant bass, allowing air to flow naturally, for a seamless soundscape.

Overall it is hard to find out what the lite is here with these bike most brands have a standard pro or light version of products and this is the case here and for the money you can’t give out really and ideal for and xmas present or a spare pair of earbuds that are cost effective and come with good features.

BUY

Video Review

Bord Gáis Energy, Centrica Energy and Mitsubishi Power Announce Development of Europe’s First Ammonia Fired Power Generation Facility

Centrica plc and Mitsubishi Power Europe Limited “Mitsubishi Power Europe” have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the development, construction, and operation of Europe’s first-ever ammonia-fired power generation facility at Bord Gáis Energy’s Whitegate Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power station in Cork, Ireland.

The project is being led by Centrica through its Bord Gáis Energy and Centrica Energy businesses and Mitsubishi Power Europe and would become Europe’s inaugural ammonia-fired power generation facility and one of only two such facilities in the world.

The utilisation of low carbon ammonia as a clean and sustainable fuel source for power generation has the potential to provide security of supply while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Low carbon ammonia has a higher volumetric density than hydrogen, enabling the utilisation of low carbon hydrogen in a form which is easy to transport and store, resulting in a fuel that can be combusted with no carbon emissions at point of use.  Its use as a fuel is a promising long-term energy solution for the transition to a low-carbon energy value chain.

Bord Gáis Energy’s facility at Whitegate CCGT power station would serve as a global demonstration site for ammonia-fired power generation technology, providing insight into the feasibility and scalability of low carbon ammonia as a green fuel and shaping the future of power generation worldwide, with low carbon ammonia being sourced through Centrica Energy’s global trading network.

Following the signing of the MOU, the project team is being established to commence project feasibility assessments. Upon the successful outcome of this assessment, extensive local stakeholder engagement will commence.

Chris O’Shea, Group Chief Executive, Centrica said: “At Centrica we believe that all energy can be green energy and that this can also improve energy security. This is one of the many projects Centrica is working on to demonstrate how the hydrogen economy could work in practice. In this instance, we hope to be able to show how hydrogen could be stored and transported as low carbon ammonia, delivering cleaner energy for customers at the point of use. Centrica Energy continues to be a pioneer in supporting the development of these new international value chains and we’re delighted to have the expertise of our partners in Mitsubishi in delivering the project”.

Dave Kirwan, Managing Director, Bord Gáis Energy said: “The signing of the MOU represents a significant step in advancing our commitment to a sustainable and low-emission energy landscape, underscoring Ireland’s position as a leader in green energy initiatives. We believe that the strategic combination of Centrica’s vision, investment and global trading capability, along with Mitsubishi Power Europe’s innovation and technology, complemented by Bord Gáis Energy’s existing assets will effectively drive the success of this transformative project.”

Javier Cavada, President and CEO, Europe, Middle East and Africa at Mitsubishi Power stated: “Mitsubishi Power is the frontrunner in the development of technology to enable the direct firing of ammonia for power generation, harnessing our 50-year pioneering experience in low carbon gas turbine and hydrogen fuel combustion technologies. This collaboration with Centrica Energy and Bord Gais Energy for Europe’s first ammonia-fired power generation facility demonstrates Mitsubishi Power’s relentless commitment to pursue cutting-edge decarbonization solutions to meet the demand for electricity while transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future. It is truly a leap forward toward a cleaner, greener energy future, enabled by Europe’s first ammonia-fired power generation facility utilising low carbon ammonia.”

ZEUS Urges Irish Government to Put Safety First in E-Scooter Regulations

In a bid to foster innovation and prioritise safety, Ireland’s only homegrown eScooter micromobility company, ZEUS Scooters, has been at the forefront of discussions with industry and the Irish government regarding proposed regulations that may inadvertently hinder progress.

ZEUS, who currently operates in more than 60 cities in Europe and the UK, has diligently communicated concerns about the government’s intention to impose a weight limit of 25kg on e-scooters. Unfortunately, it appears that a crucial misinterpretation by the Irish government of the EU’s motor insurance directive has occurred, leading to a potentially stifling restriction rather than an incentivised safety measure.

“ZEUS stands as a champion for safety and innovation in the e-scooter industry. Our commitment to providing a secure and reliable mode of transportation is reflected in the exceptional safety record of our 3-wheeled scooter, proven to be significantly safer than the European average for 2-wheeled shared scooters,” says Damian Young, CEO of ZEUS Scooters.

Contrary to the EU directive, which merely requires insurance for e-scooters exceeding 25kg, the Irish government’s current approach risks excluding a multitude of cutting-edge e-scooter models that prioritise durability and incorporate new technologies. ZEUS operates a 3-wheeled scooter that, by design, exceeds the 25kg limit due to its enhanced sturdiness and safety features.

“Our 3-wheeled scooters are not just a mode of transportation; they represent a commitment to safety, durability, and technological advancement. We urge Transport Minister Eamon Ryan and the Irish government to reconsider these restrictive regulations. By embracing sturdier scooter designs, we can create a safer environment for riders while unlocking the economic benefits that the e-scooter industry promises for Ireland,” adds Young.

Incident reporting demonstrates that ZEUS’ 3-wheeled scooter is verified to be significantly safer than the European average for 2-wheeled shared scooters. This outstanding safety record emphasises the need for a more nuanced approach to regulations that considers the inherent safety benefits associated with sturdier scooter designs.

Moreover, these regulations threaten to impede Ireland from reaping the rewards of a swiftly expanding industry, one poised to generate employment opportunities nationwide and invigorate foot traffic in city and town centres. Numerous studies have underlined the positive impact of e-scooter adoption on local businesses, making them an indispensable component of urban mobility solutions.

ZEUS calls on the Irish government to prioritise safety over arbitrary weight limits and to embrace the technological advancements that make e-scooters not only safer but also more resilient. By doing so, Ireland can position itself as a leader in fostering innovation, supporting local economies, and ensuring the continued growth of the e-scooter industry.

The team at ZEUS remains committed to working collaboratively with the government and City and Town Councils to find a balanced approach that considers both safety and the potential for economic growth. Together, we can create an environment that encourages innovation, job creation, and the development of a sustainable and safe e-scooter ecosystem for all.

Dublin City wins the European Capital of Smart Tourism 2024

The European Commission has announced that Dublin City has won the Smart Tourism Capital Award designation for 2024.

The announcement was made today in Brussels.

“We are delighted that Dublin has been awarded the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism. This designation is a recognition of our commitment to deliver a greener, more accessible, inclusive and innovative Dublin, for both our visitors and locals. Our Smart Tourism programme, which was established in 2019 has been sharing, collaborating, and learning from some of the best cities in Europe and embedding this best practice in our own work through our new Tourism Strategy 2023-2023. We will proudly use this designation as a platform to deliver an innovative approach to tourism for Dublin.” – Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive, Dublin City Council.

There were 30 candidates spanning 17 countries with six cities short-listed: Bremerhaven (Germany), Cork (Ireland), Dublin (Ireland), Genoa (Italy), Helsingborg (Sweden), and San Sebastián (Spain), all had their submissions evaluated by an expert judging panel. Following this competitive process, the judging panel recognised that Dublin has embedded best Smart Tourism practices from across Europe through its collaborations with other cities and the publication of its first five-year tourism strategy with a strong focus on innovation.

New experiences such as 14 Henrietta Street, EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum as well as digital innovations such as the Dublin Discovery Trails App separated Dublin from the other applicants. Dublin has also committed to sustainability by being the first Irish city to sign the Glasgow Declaration on Sustainable Tourism. Dublin also impressed the judges through its vision to become the world’s first autism friendly city by 2026.

“This city immersed in a rich tapestry of history, is a city full of culture and creativity. Now hailed for its commitment to sustainability and a strategic smart tourism vision and outstanding achievements, it has impressed the jury. Over the past year, this city has actively engaged people in decision-making, creating a destination that resonates with its people and embraces innovation at the same time. The city’s networking efforts with previous winners reflect a dedication to collaboration, leadership and innovation, and a beating European heart,” the European Commission judging panel said.

The new Dublin City Council Tourism Strategy 2023-2028 is due to be launched this Thursday 30th November 2023.

Lotus Launches Charging Solutions for Electric Vehicles

Lotus has launched today its own electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions including an ultra-fast 450 kW DC charger, power cabinet and a modular unit for charging up to four vehicles at once.

Charging anxiety remains one of the main barriers to electric vehicle adoption, with nearly 80% of the public citing the lack of charging infrastructure as a primary reason for not buying an EV in a survey conducted by the Energy Policy Institute. With Lotus’ charging capabilities, the company is providing consumers with reliability and confidence wherever they are driving.

The new suite of EV charging solutions designed for businesses includes:

  • Liquid-Cooled All-in-One DC Charger: a new charger, which offers ultra-fast charging of up to 450 kW. For example, with the Lotus Eletre R, it can add up to 88.5 miles or 142 km of range with approximately 5 minutes of charge making it one of the most competitive electric vehicle chargers. A 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in just 20 minutes with a range extension of 74 miles or 120 kilometres from a 5-minute charge when using a 350 kW Rapid Charger.
  • Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet: a modular power cabinet that is suited for spaces that require high energy in order to increase efficiency and minimise charging time, such as motorway rest stops. It offers market-leading power output capabilities of up to 480 kW.
  • Liquid-Cooled Charging Unit: a charging terminal, which when used with the Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet, can charge up to four vehicles at once. The unit has a maximum current output of 600 Amp, which ensures it is able to meet the needs of all electric vehicle drivers. For instance, if they need a short top-up whilst on the go, or fast-charge for long distance drives, Lotus’ new offering provides them with a convenient solution.

Lotus is using liquid-cooled technologies throughout its suite of commercial charging solutions to make it easier and quicker for EV drivers to charge their vehicles.

Lotus’ fast-charging solutions have already been deployed in China and are expected to roll out across the majority of European countries and Middle East in Q2 2024. Further market availability will be announced in due course.

As charging infrastructure improves over time, Lotus is ensuring its customers are equipped by providing a 450 kW solution. Lotus has futureproofed its charging offering, which is expected to be the next step forward in fast charging when the infrastructure becomes readily available. Lotus customers will be able to easily upgrade to this power output without additional hardware costs once in-market service providers rollout grid upgrades.

Mike Johnstone, Chief Commercial Officer at Lotus Group, said: “Over the past six years, Lotus has been investing in the technology and infrastructure to accelerate the transition to electrification. We want to make it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle and with our latest offerings, Lotus is able to provide customers with the confidence to access easy, fast, and efficient charging.”

Alan Wang, Vice-President of Lotus Technology and CEO at Lotus Flash Charge, said: “As more governments are increasing investment into electrification in their journey to net-zero, the demand for a reliable electric vehicle charging infrastructure has never been higher than before. Lotus has developed best-in-class fast charging solutions to deliver a quick and reliable charging experience to meet customer needs.”

In 2018, Lotus announced its Vision80 strategy and plans to transform the brand from a British sports car maker to an all-electric global luxury technology brand by 2028. As part of this transition, the company is committed to developing its own range of EV charging solutions.

The company launched its first electric hyper-SUV Eletre in 2022, with customer deliveries across UK, Europe and China taking place this year. Lotus recently launched Emeya, its next-generation electric hyper-GT, in early September 2023.

Both vehicles integrate hardware, software, and cloud capabilities to deve op a full stack of intelligent driving technologies. They also include HD cameras, radar, and high-precision mapping capabilities to allow the vehicles to precisely perceive their environment in a stereoscopic display, providing a smooth drive even in extreme conditions. Lotus will continue to expand its range of premium electric vehicles, as the company looks to scale in this growing market.

Lotus has seen a huge demand for its products, with an orderbook of over 19,000 vehicles for its Emira sports car and Eletre hyper-SUV. The company has ramped up production this year, having had a record-breaking first half of 2023, and expects the full year to surpass all previous years.