Renewable Energy, Trade Tensions, and Defense Deals Reshape Nations
Dear readers,
Altay prefecture in Xinjiang is rapidly transforming into a renewable energy hub, focusing on wind and solar projects that are boosting the local economy. The region ranks high in renewable energy production, with 92.7% of its power generated from renewables by mid-2024, exporting half of this energy.
The European Union is considering a significant tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, arguing that government subsidies give Chinese manufacturers an unfair advantage. While many EU countries support the tariffs, others, such as Spain and Germany, favor diplomatic solutions to avoid escalating trade tensions.
India is set to finalize a $3.9 billion deal with the US for 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, which will enhance its defense and intelligence capabilities. This deal is part of a broader defense collaboration that has brought US-India defense contracts to over $25 billion since 2007.
In Japan, a tragic landslide in Wajima City led to heroic rescue attempts, although one elderly man did not survive after being saved from the debris. The incident reflects the ongoing struggles of communities in the region as they cope with natural disasters.
Singapore will raise public transport fares by 6% in December, prompting debates on the sustainability of subsidies for the system. Experts like Timothy Wong from NUS highlight the financial challenges of maintaining affordable transportation amid rising costs.
Jürgen Germeys
China
China Daily | English | News
Altay prefecture in northern Xinjiang is evolving into a renewable energy hub, leveraging its natural resources to expand wind and solar projects. This shift from traditional livestock farming is driving economic growth in the region.
Altay ranks third in Xinjiang for hydropower with a capacity of 4.84 million kilowatts and fourth for wind and solar energy, with potential capacities of 39.5 million and 505.5 million kilowatts, respectively. By July, 92.7% of the region's 7.78 billion kilowatt-hours of power generation came from renewables, with half of that being exported.
和评理｜对华电动汽车征税有损中欧经贸关系：欧盟急需审慎而行
China Daily | Local Language | News
The European Union is set to vote on imposing additional tariffs on electric vehicles from China, potentially reaching 35.3%. The European Commission asserts that Chinese manufacturers enjoy significant government subsidies, creating unfair competitive advantages. If 15 EU member states do not oppose the tariffs in the upcoming vote, the new tax would be enacted by the end of October, alongside the existing 10% import duty.
While several EU countries support these tariffs, others, including Spain, are pushing for dialogue to avert trade conflicts. Spanish Prime Minister Sanchez has shifted from advocating for tariffs to seeking political solutions. Similarly, German leaders, including Chancellor Scholz, have expressed a desire for stable trade relations to avoid escalating tariffs.
India
The Economic Times | English | News
India is preparing to finalize a $3.9 billion contract to purchase 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States, which will significantly enhance its defense capabilities. This deal includes 15 Sea Guardian drones for the Navy and 16 Sky Guardians for the Army and Air Force, with the agreement anticipated to be signed in mid-October. The procurement is part of a broader defense partnership between the two nations.
Following discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden, the latter expressed support for India's progress in this procurement, highlighting how these drones will improve India's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities across various domains. The impending deal will elevate the value of US defense contracts with India to over $25 billion since 2007.
Japan
「諦めるな、絶対」離さなかった手 土砂迫る中、命救おうとした男性
Mainichi Shimbun | Local Language | News
On September 21, 2024, a severe landslide struck Machino-cho in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, following heavy rains on the Noto Peninsula. Isolated villages are facing significant challenges as access is blocked, prompting urgent requests for help. Among those caught in the disaster were 82-year-old Kimi Nakayama and his wife Harumi, who were trapped while inspecting their field.
A nearby worker heard cries for help and witnessed the landslide. He quickly rushed to rescue Nakayama, who was buried under debris. Despite the peril, the rescuer persisted, encouraging Nakayama to hold on as they fought against the encroaching mud. They succeeded in pulling him to safety, and he was evacuated to a nearby centre.
Tragically, Nakayama's condition worsened after arriving at the hospital, leading to his death. A local witness described the unexpected nature of the landslide and emphasised the couple's popularity in the community. Their story reflects resilience, as they had previously survived an earthquake and were in the process of rebuilding their lives.
Singapore
Channel News Asia | English | News
Starting December 28, bus and train fares in Singapore will rise by 6% per journey. The government plans to inject an additional S$250 million to help mitigate costs and delay further fare increases.
Concerns surround the sustainability of these fare hikes and government subsidies. Timothy Wong from NUS points out the financial implications for the transportation system.
South Korea
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Joongang Ilbo | Local Language | News
KT is a leader in Korea's autonomous driving and digital road sectors, collaborating with 14 local governments on its AICT transportation project. This initiative encompasses 13,400 km of digital roads co-developed with government entities, research institutions, and businesses. Since 2016, KT has advanced various autonomous projects, including driverless buses and demonstrations at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.
KT’s autonomous driving capabilities utilize digital roads to enhance vehicle sensing and positioning, supported by an AI platform for remote control and data management. Leveraging 5G networks, the company analyses real-time data from vehicles and infrastructure, improving situational awareness and enabling accident prevention through timely information to control centers.
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领英推荐
Money Today | Local Language | News
The Public Procurement Service is enhancing fire safety management for electric vehicles and charging devices in the public sector. This initiative supports the government's 'Electric Vehicle Fire Safety Management Measures,' which require battery information disclosure and the registration of smart control chargers to boost safety.
Updated specifications for public electric vehicles will mandate full battery disclosures, detailing the cell manufacturer, type, raw materials, and origin. This applies to all centrally procured electric vehicle purchases and leases, with guidance provided to self-procurement agencies for compliance.
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Money Today | Local Language | News
The South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy are collaborating on verifying autonomous ships. A departure ceremony was held for the 'Force Singapore' container ship at the North Port of Busan, which will demonstrate the Korean autonomous ship system as part of a 160.3 billion won project running from 2020 to 2025.
The 'Force Singapore', provided by Pan Ocean, will operate on the Korea-Southeast Asia route for a year, showcasing technologies like intelligent navigation and engine automation. The autonomous system was integrated from the design stage, with preparations now complete.
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“I can’t believe it’s an electric car”… Japan breaks through with hybrid electric cars equipped with engines
Korea Times | English | News
A container carrier with an autonomous navigation system has commenced field tests from Busan, focusing on intelligent navigation and cybersecurity. The vessel will operate on routes between Korea and Southeast Asia over the next year.
This initiative is part of a 160.3 billion won ($120 million) project that began in 2020 and will continue until 2025, aiming to develop autonomous navigation technologies in collaboration with Pan Ocean, establishing a pioneering public-private partnership.
The tests will assess key components of the autonomous system, including engine automation, prioritizing safety. Industrial Policy Director General Lee Seung-ryeol emphasized the project's goals of enhancing safety and reducing carbon emissions, underscoring the government's commitment to technological advancement.
Korea Herald | English | News
Seoul Smart Life Week, scheduled for October 10 to 12 at Coex in Samseong-dong, will feature 42 local companies focused on urban living technologies and host international conferences on technology trends and urban innovation. Organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the event aims to facilitate dialogue among industry leaders.
Unlike typical tech expos, this event will highlight technology's impact on daily life through 12 thematic showrooms, showcasing consumer robots, housing innovations, and smart city technologies from 95 companies. Topics will include tourism and support for vulnerable populations, creating a multifaceted discussion on urban living improvements.
Taiwan
純電「媚」影 ?KODA Enyaq Coupé RS
Yahoo News Taiwan | Local Language | News
The KODA Enyaq Coup RS is the brand's inaugural pure electric vehicle, leveraging Volkswagen Group technology. Priced at 1.988 million, it offers a compelling cost-performance ratio, featuring a length of 4,653mm, dual motors producing 340ps, four-wheel drive, and a range of 547 kilometres per WLTP standards.
The launch faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine-Russia war, leading to upgraded specifications. Its design is notable for a dynamic silhouette, a "crystal face" with 130 LED lights, and 21-inch aluminium wheels, enhancing its youthful appeal.
Inside, the Enyaq Coup RS showcases a minimalist design with a 5.3-inch digital instrument and a 13-inch central screen powered by the Me4 system. While the spacious interior features a 12-speaker Canton sound system, the size of the digital instrument and the absence of a Chinese interface for the Me4 system are drawbacks that are expected to improve.
儲能勢在必行 應有配套穩信心
Liberty Times Net | Local Language | News
Energy storage is vital for green energy advancement, yet setbacks in photovoltaics and wind power have undermined market confidence, leading to an oversupply in energy storage. To address this, officials plan to refund the capacity retention fee by the end of June, but robust government support is necessary to restore long-term investor confidence.
Energy development faces significant challenges, as green energy grid connections have resulted in seven to eight times more applications than available capacity, causing Taipower to suspend new applications. This has created uncertainty for stakeholders assessing their options.
無人機聯盟誓師2028產值增長10倍 郭智輝：代表台灣爭取G2G訂單
Yahoo News Taiwan | Local Language | News
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has established the "Taiwan Excellent Drone Overseas Business Opportunity Alliance" to boost the domestic drone industry. This initiative brings together government entities, industry players, and research institutions to advance Taiwan's drone capabilities. Chairman Hu Kaihong emphasized evaluating manufacturers' strengths to enhance international connectivity, while Minister Kuo Zhihui highlighted the goal of securing government-to-government (G2G) orders.
Vietnam
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Dantri | Local Language | News
On September 23, the Tri An Hydropower Company opened the spillway gate of the Tri An hydroelectric dam to release floodwaters into the Dong Nai River, due to a high inflow upstream of 2,000m3/s that raised the reservoir's elevation to 60.5m, nearing the safety threshold of 62m. Residents from Vinh Cuu district and surrounding areas, including Bien Hoa city, flocked to observe the flood discharge throughout the day despite the heat.