oleh admin | Apr 20, 2025 | consumer electronics, exhibitions, news, technology, technology industry
Where Creativity Intersects with Innovation: A Festival of Culture, Tech, and Supportive Patrons
At the intersection of tradition and modernity, LG Electronics shines brightly as a leading supporter of African arts during this year’s esteemed +234Art Fair. Held amidst the dynamic atmosphere of Nigeria’s thriving contemporary art landscape, the yearly event transcends mere display; it becomes a cultural phenomenon, bringing together creators, connoisseurs, and trendsetters for a collective tribute to creativity, legacy, and advancement.
Globally recognized for its innovative designs and advanced tech solutions, LG’s participation in the +234Art Fair marks a significant dedication to the flourishing artistic resurgence throughout Africa. This collaboration transcends typical business support; it offers a meticulously crafted encounter aimed at transforming the way art is experienced, valued, and actualized.
Digitally Enhanced Canvases Bringing Art to Life
Television is no longer just a window to the world—it is becoming the canvas for it. LG’s next-generation OLED displays are transforming walls into living galleries, where every brushstroke and burst of color is rendered with breathtaking clarity. At the +234Art Fair, these immersive displays elevate the viewing experience, allowing attendees to step into the very soul of African artistry.
Our support for the +234Art Fair is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of art,” said Mr.
Paul Mba
, serving as the Corporate Marketing Manager at LG Electronics Nigeria. Art and technology possess a shared essence: innovation. Through their integration, we’re crafting engaging experiences that strengthen our bond with artistic expression and cultural narratives.
A Fresh Start for Innovative Sponsorship
LG’s partnership with the event aligns perfectly with this year’s theme, Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art, providing artists more than just a stage; they also receive the resources needed for success. By incorporating advanced display technologies along with various programs such as mentoring workshops and roundtable conversations, the project extends well past mere showcasing. Instead, it develops into a comprehensive environment that fosters growth.
Tola Akerele
The founder of the +234Art Fair and Soto Gallery highlighted the event’s purpose: “Our aim is to realign Nigerian artists in the international art scene, providing them with the assurance and visibility needed to establish enduring careers. The fair focuses on culture, heritage, and the economic aspects of artistic expression.”
Crafting the Tomorrow of African Art
At its core, the +234Art Fair is a initiative that questions conventional ideas about supporting artists in Africa. LG’s participation highlights the importance of collaboration in this contemporary landscape—where artists are recognized as well as assisted in transforming their interests into enduring monuments. Through their workshops and mentoring programs, the brand offers valuable knowledge on managing an artistic career, enabling creators to earn from their skills and adapt to the changing international art scene.
As African artwork attracts enthusiasts globally, LG merges artistic expression with technological advancement, outlining an encouraging outlook for tomorrow. An era where tech enhances imagination rather than dominating it.
Whether displayed on gallery walls or illuminated through digital screens, LG is transforming our interaction with African art—ensuring each viewing feels like an extraordinary work of art and every experience becomes a vibrant tribute to cultural heritage.
To learn more about LG TVs, please go to
https://www.lg.com/africa/tvs
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oleh admin | Apr 20, 2025 | alternative energy, energy sustainability, engineering, science, technology
By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi
The professor of chemistry and vice-dean of the Faculty of Physical and Computational Sciences at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Prof. Nathaniel Owusu Boadi, has highlighted the significant impact that nanotechnology can have in promoting sustainable energy solutions in Ghana and throughout Africa.
During his Professorial Inaugural Lecture at KNUST, Professor Owusu Boadi highlighted that nanotechnology—which is frequently called ‘the science of the unseen’—is crucial for developing more effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
His lecture, titled
‘Heading towards inclusive renewable energy for everyone: utilizing the force of the unseen titans,’
tracked the development of nanomaterials from their early beginnings through to their advanced uses in contemporary energy solutions.
As he points out, nanotechnology has the potential to greatly boost the effectiveness of solar cells, increase battery efficiency, and refine fuel cell technology—elements crucial for shifting towards a more sustainable and robust energy industry.
“Even though Ghana and numerous African nations receive ample sunlight, access to solar power stays restricted because traditional silicon-based photovoltaic cells come at a steep price. However, nanomaterials present an encouraging substitute that might reduce expenses and boost effectiveness, thereby increasing the availability of solar energy,” he pointed out.
Professor Owusu Boadi urged the government to significantly increase investment in researching and developing nanomaterials for energy production.
He similarly called upon regulatory entities like the Environmental Protection Agency and the Ghana Standards Authority to develop scientifically grounded safety protocols for manufacturing, utilizing, and disposing of nanomaterials—ensuring these align with global best standards.
He also suggested forming a National Nanotechnology Research Center, which would be led by the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), working alongside the Ministry of Finance, educational institutions, and representatives from various industries.
He clarified that this center would promote locally developed innovations and help bring nanotechnology-based energy solutions to market, specifically addressing Ghana’s requirements.
Professor Owusu Boadi further emphasized the extensive uses of nanotechnology outside the realm of energy. Within the medical field, nanomaterials aid in early detection via improved diagnostic imagery and assist in regenerating tissues.
In environmental science, these applications are employed for purifying water and cleaning up hazardous waste. Additionally, the electronics sector benefits from more efficient semiconductors, as well as precise sensors; meanwhile, the textiles industry profits from smarter and antimicrobial fabrics.
Moreover, Professor Owusu Boadi noted that although Ghana has achieved significant progress in electrification with an 85.1% access rate as of 2022, numerous rural areas continue to struggle with unreliable power supply.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 600 million individuals still lack access to electricity. He stated that this disparity represents not only a challenge but also numerous opportunities.
“Through investment in nanotechnology, Ghana has the potential to spearhead the creation of sustainable, domestically-generated energy solutions. These efforts could not only bridge this gap but also establish the nation as a center for environmentally-friendly innovation,” he highlighted.
Professor Nathaniel Owusu Boadi – a chemistry professor and the Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Physical and Computational Sciences at KNUST.
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oleh admin | Apr 20, 2025 | alternative energy, energy sector, energy sustainability, engineering, solar panels
The Energy and Power Development Minister, July Moyo, has announced intentions for Zimbabwe to start producing solar panels and lithium batteries. This initiative aims to prevent severe power shortages while promoting the use of clean, sustainable energy sources.
This initiative will entail partnerships among nearby educational institutions and global companies to leverage knowledge and technological resources for business manufacturing purposes.
At the recently concluded sixth International Renewable Energy Conference and Expo, Moyo stated that the Cabinet had already endorsed the project framework for implementing this innovation.
“We firmly believe that the future has arrived due to the advanced technologies at hand. Our aim is to collaborate with various universities, and just this week, the Cabinet endorsed a plan to join forces with Chinhoyi University of Technology for initiatives focused on solar power. This collaboration will encompass every facet of solar innovation, research, education, as well as possibly producing our own solar panels and investigating battery alternatives, considering our substantial lithium reserves,” according to statements from state-run media attributed to Moyo.
We think the chances are now accessible to all to join in.
An agreement known as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been reached with the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to set up a Solar Technology Application Resource Center (STAR-C) at Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT).
The objective of this program is to enhance capabilities for deploying solar energy, as well as promoting research, development, and innovation in this sector, thereby strengthening the nation’s position in the realm of renewable energy.
As we consider these matters, solar or renewable energy should be framed within our economic landscape, which currently encompasses 17 distinct sectors.
“The major sectors include agriculture, mining, industry, and manufacturing. Given our involvement in renewable energy, we should concentrate on these domains and pinpoint potential within each of them,” Moyo added.
The minister restated that Zimbabwe needs to adopt clean energy.
We’re focusing on clean cooking solutions, aiming to free both men and women from the pervasive smoke generated by damp wood during the rainy season. Therefore, advocating for cleaner cooking methods is one of our primary objectives.
“Enhancing energy efficiency is not merely optional—it has become essential. This approach stands as one of the most economical methods for expanding energy availability, cutting down emissions, and boosting economic output across various industries,” stated Moyo.
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oleh admin | Apr 20, 2025 | engineering, military technology, military weapons, rocket propulsion, weapons and warfare
New Delhi [India], April 15 (ANI): The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) waterjet propulsion system with a capacity of 651 kilowatts, developed by Larsen Turbo as part of the Technology Development Fund initiative, has successfully undergone initial sea trials on board India’s Navy Fast Interceptor Craft.
On a post from X, they mentioned: “A significant achievement through @DRDO_India’s TDF program. The domestically created 651 kW waterjet propulsion system, engineered and produced by @LarsenToubro with over 70% local components, has successfully finished initial maritime tests onboard India’s Navy Fast Interceptor Craft.”
On April 13, India achieved a significant milestone as it became part of an exclusive group of nations like the U.S., China, and Russia, which possess the ability to intercept and destroy both conventional fixed-wing drones and swarming drone systems. This was accomplished through the deployment of a powerful 30-kilowatt laser system designed specifically for this purpose.
The successful testing of the Mk-II(A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) system took place at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool. This demonstration highlighted the capability to neutralize missiles, drones, and smaller projectiles using advanced technology. DRDO officials shared this information with ANI onsite.
India has joined the select and small group of countries that have developed high-powered Laser Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs).
In conversation with ANI, DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat stated, “To my knowledge, the U.S., Russia, and China have showcased this ability. It appears that Israel is developing comparable technologies too. I believe we stand as either the fourth or fifth nation globally to exhibit this system.”
Kamat stated that this marks only the “start of the journey,” and mentioned that DRDO is developing several technologies aimed at achieving a “Star Wars-like capability.”
“This marks only the start of our journey. Given the collaboration between this laboratory and others within the DRDO, as well as with industries and academic institutions, I’m confident that we’ll reach our goals swiftly… Additionally, we’re developing various high-energy systems such as high-intensity microwaves and electromagnetic pulse devices. Therefore, we’re engaged in numerous technological advancements aimed at achieving capabilities akin to those seen in ‘Star Wars.’ Today’s demonstration showcased merely one aspect of these advanced technologies,” stated Kamat.
The indigenously created and developed Mk-II(A) DEW system showcased all its capabilities by targeting and neutralizing fixed-wing drones from a distance, countering an assault involving several drones, and demolishing enemy surveillance equipment and antennas.
The rapid engagement time, accuracy, and lethal impact achieved against the target within mere seconds have rendered it the most effective Counterdrone System.
The DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS) in Hyderabad collaborated with LRDE, IRDE, DLRL, various educational institutes, and local industries to develop this system. (ANI)
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oleh admin | Apr 19, 2025 | autos, cars, driving, electric cars, suvs
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The inaugural SUV from Lucid is enjoyable, functional, and pretty much the most high-tech electric vehicle available on the market right now.
When I
First took the steering wheel of the Lucid Gravity
Late last year, I was taken aback. However, the test drive of the pre-production model was done in such haste that it seemed inappropriate to form concrete opinions. After spending considerable time driving the company’s revamped offering, I can now speak with greater certainty about my thoughts from December: The Gravity stands out as the most outstanding all-around electric vehicle I have ever encountered.
This three-row SUV excels in nearly inexplicable ways. It drives like a sports car yet accommodates up to seven passengers with ease. Despite its compact size compared to rivals, it offers astounding interior roominess. Adding to its impressive feats, it scores exceptionally well on essential electric vehicle metrics, boasting an almost unparalleled EPA range and performance.
the fastest recharge times in the USA
.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
However, Lucid’s path with its initial vehicle demonstrates that possessing an excellent product is merely part of the challenge. Both in theory and reality, the Gravity stands out as a remarkable achievement. There’s no doubt about that.
The larger uncertainty lies in whether Lucid will manage to attract sufficient customers.
What Is It?
The California-based company Lucid Motors impressed electric car enthusiasts towards the end of 2021 when they revealed
Air sedan
arrived with a still-untouched
520 miles of range
and staggering performance.
However, Lucid’s initial offering faced limitations as a four-door sedan during an era where the automotive industry had predominantly moved towards SUVs and pickup trucks. In 2023, they managed to sell around 6,000 Air models, increasing slightly to just above 10,000 units in 2024. This represents steady progress for a new entrant into the market; nonetheless, it falls short of what would be required to establish itself as a leading automaker. Moving forward, Lucid aims to attract a larger customer base and achieve greater financial success through their Gravity model, equipped with all their advanced proprietary technology yet packaged within a larger and potentially more popular vehicle type.
The Gravity isn’t just a taller Air, though. It rides on a new platform with new motors and more energy-dense batteries. It’s built at Lucid’s factory in Arizona and technically
was made available in late December
, with a limited number of units being distributed to customers near the company. Genuine deliveries to real customers.
start later this month
.
The launch-edition Gravity Grand Touring costs a lot of dough to own, especially if you want bells and whistles like a third row, 110-volt outlets and soft-close doors. But it’s also a lot of car, with a claimed 828 horsepower, a 3.4-second 0-60-mph time and up to 450 miles of range. A Touring version starting at $15,000 less is on tap for later this year.
What Is It Like To Drive?
A few weeks earlier,
I tried out the Cadillac Escalade IQ.
It’s incredible how distinctively these two three-row electric vehicles perform on the road. The massive Escalade maneuvers like an ocean liner. While it accelerates swiftly in a straight line and serves as a comfortable ride on highways, it falls short in nearly all other aspects.
On the contrary, driving The Gravity is truly exhilarating. You might easily lose track of having an entire SUV at your disposal due to how nimble it is. The vehicle boasts rapid and sensitive steering. No matter if you floor the accelerator, apply the brakes firmly, or take tight turns, the Gravity remains stable and impressively managed. This experience can be quite astonishing considering that it’s a large family-oriented utility vehicle rather than a sleek sports car with a lower profile.
Our friends at
The Autopian
It was aptly put when someone mentioned that the Gravity handles like a sports car confined within a minivan’s frame. This is particularly evident in the Gravity’s “Sprint” driving mode, where the vehicle feels firmly planted on the road, with stiffer suspension and a more sensitive gas pedal response. Additionally, there is a softer “Smooth” setting for comfort and a moderate “Swift” option as a middle ground between the two extremes.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
It’s incredibly swift, offering the seamless, effortless acceleration characteristic of electric vehicles (EVs), with Lucid being notably proficient in this aspect. Even when cruising at high speeds on highways, you have access to an almost limitless reserve of power.
Who genuinely requires a seven-seater SUV with handling like this? Likely not many people. However, what’s appealing is that the Gravity handles routine tasks effortlessly. Thanks to its adaptable air suspension system, cruising through city streets doesn’t come with the jarring stiffness found in certain high-end SUVs. Additionally, it boasts impressive silence inside. Its short hood ensures superior forward vision, which stands out against taller, squarer rivals. Furthermore, the blind-spot cameras activated upon signaling turns add an elegant feature.
A point to consider: The test vehicle included the Dynamic Handling Package, featuring rear-wheel steering and enhancing the distinction among its three driving modes. Therefore, my insights do not cover the performance of the base model without these options.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
Nevertheless, you receive three tiers of
regenerative braking
I usually stuck with the Goldilocks “Standard” setting, but you have the option to switch it to “High” or turn it off altogether.
Oh, and what about
the compressed steering wheel of Gravity
I genuinely enjoyed this concept quite a bit. Lucid refers to it as the “squircle,” which aids in offering an unimpeded view of the SUV’s display without requiring much adjustment for users due to its recognizable design. In contrast, Tesla’s yoke-style steering wheel does not offer the same familiarity.
A Massive Interior
I believe the Gravity’s spacious interior will attract many more customers than its questionable handling capabilities ever could. Given how divided America has become lately, there seems to be one thing everyone can agree on: a preference for carrying as much stuff as possible.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
This SUV boasts the charming feature of seeming much more spacious internally than it appears externally. This is due to its light-filled, mid-century style, along with excellent use of space.
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch tall, I find the second and third rows quite comfortable due to their level flooring and generous legroom. Compared to similar vehicles, the rear seating offered even more space.
Rivian R1S
Or the Escalade IQ, either of which Lucid had available for comparison.
Moreover, the Gravity offers nearly identical cargo space—up to 120 cubic feet with the seats down—as the considerably larger Escalade. An oversized, eight-cubic-foot front trunk significantly contributes to this, along with an extensive storage compartment located beneath the rear floor.
It’s difficult to grasp just how spacious a car feels internally when measured only in cubic feet. Let me illustrate this for you. During the driving event, Lucid filled a Gravity with cardboard boxes and tasked me with fitting as many additional ones as possible into the available space nearby.
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV
.
I have decent spatial awareness—if you’re looking for someone to help move a sofa up a narrow staircase, count me in—so I figured I could neatly fit all the boxes inside with ease. However, after several minutes, the trunk of the EQS was completely full, leaving behind an unexpectedly large stack of unplaced boxes, roughly equaling about three carry-on bags worth. Well played, Lucid.
A Significantly Improved Lucid User Interface
Lucid’s software has consistently lagged behind competitors like Tesla.
Rivian
The design of The Air’s user interface was visually appealing, yet lacked functionality and could be somewhat perplexing. In previous models, we’ve frequently encountered problems with the voice command system powered by Alexa. Additionally, Lucid lags behind several rivals regarding sophisticated driver-assistance features.
I’ll tentatively state that the Gravity marks significant progress technologically speaking. Behind the steering wheel, there’s a strikingly clear 34-inch curved OLED display which adds an impressive visual element. Below this, the bigger tablet-like interface proves far easier to navigate intuitively compared to earlier models. It also boasts smooth transitions tied to different driving modes, suspension adjustments, and regeneration choices. Overall, Lucid’s updated UX version 3.0 appears more polished and consistent when contrasted with previous versions seen in the Air model. However, nothing has yet confirmed these improvements will extend to their sedan lineup.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
The route-planning feature now offers many additional choices, such as setting your desired battery level upon arrival and selecting from your preferred charging networks. The energy tab has been updated with efficiency advice tailored for novice electric vehicle drivers. Additionally, a significant improvement allows you to use two separate applications simultaneously across the car’s dual screens—for instance, navigation alongside audio controls—something previously not possible in the Air model due to this constraint.
I’m calling it a preliminary enhancement solely due to many features not being operational during my trial run. Both the completely new heads-up display and the voice assistant were inactive, several streaming apps remained unannounced, and Dog Mode as well as Camp Mode had not been activated. We’ve observed this same scenario with vehicles such as the Polestar 3.
Volvo EX90
, and I must say I wouldn’t want this to become commonplace.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
As physical controls grow less common in the automotive industry, Lucid is taking a different path by incorporating adjustable buttons on both the steering wheel and central console. These buttons aren’t fully programmable in the current test models, but this feature promises to add a convenient element once implemented.
How Well Does It Perform as a Car and as an Electric Vehicle?
At
InsideEVs
, we consistently address these two questions in our reviews. In this instance, I would contend that the Gravity is an excellent vehicle.
because
It’s an excellent electric vehicle. Let’s begin with the fundamentals.
The Gravity Grand Touring has an impressive range of 450 miles per full charge, outperforming major competitors such as the R1S with its 410-mile range.
BMW iX
(364 miles) and the EQS SUV (324 miles). The Escalade IQ stands out as the outlier, boasting an estimated range of 460 miles according to the manufacturer, though this comes with a notably larger battery—which we will discuss further shortly.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
The charging speed is remarkably fast here. The Gravity supports charging at an astounding rate of 400 kilowatts, surpassing what most American stations can provide. According to independent tests, it gained over 200 miles of range in less than 11 minutes, establishing itself as the fastest-charging electric vehicle available internationally, excluding those from China. Additionally, it stands out as one of the earliest non-Tesla electric vehicles to offer this capability.
Tesla’s NACS charging port
,enabling chargeable connectivity at numerous Supercharger stations without the need for a dongle.
These are the clear advantages of excelling as an electric vehicle. However, there are also secondary benefits.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
Why does the Gravity perform significantly better than the Escalade IQ? Partly, this is due to Lucid’s dedication to maximizing efficiency. Despite having a smaller 123-kWh battery pack, the Gravity achieves an equivalent range compared to the Escalade’s larger 205-kWh unit. This size difference contributes to the fact that the Escalade weighs roughly 3,000 pounds more than the Gravity. With the Lucid model, you achieve similar range using less power and experience faster recharge times—a testament to their commitment to efficiency.
The relatively small battery pack, along with Lucid’s compact motors, contributes to the ample interior space I mentioned previously.
Initial Assessment: Lucid Has a Hit Product, Provided It Can Successfully Market It
Lucid possesses the product now. The next hurdle is marketing it effectively.
Photo by: Tim Levin/InsideEVs
An uncertainty remains regarding how consumers will react to an aspect not yet discussed: the van-like design. Although I appreciate the Gravity’s spacecraft aesthetic, there’s no assurance it will appeal to affluent customers who prefer traditionally styled, robust vehicles from brands like Rivian, Audi, and Volvo. Additionally, cost could pose another challenge; at release, the 2026 Gravity has a starting price of $96,625 for the Grand Touring model, which can rise significantly beyond $120,000 when extras are added. As noted earlier, this represents quite a substantial investment.
Moreover, Lucid must effectively communicate the impressive nature of its fully capable SUV to potential customers, acknowledging that this has consistently proven challenging for the company.
“Frankly, I believe each one of us hopes Lucid receives more recognition than it currently does,” stated Derek Jenkins, the company’s senior vice president of design and branding. He mentioned that they are planning an extensive marketing campaign focused on their fresh slogan “Compromise Nothing.” This motto might be familiar as it has been featured in several online advertisements.
We’ll have to wait and see how that develops. However, when it comes to slogans, I must say this one hits the mark quite well.
Have information regarding the electric vehicle sector? Reach out to the author:
Tim.Levin@InsideEVs.com
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Jeep Wagoneer S Initial Test Drive Review: An Early Version
|
2025 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring
|
|
Base Price
|
$96,625 (incl. fees)
|
|
As-Tested Price
|
$122,225
|
|
Charge Type
|
NACS
|
|
EV Range
|
450 max (386 as-tested)
|
|
Drive Type
|
Dual-Motor All-Wheel-Drive
|
|
Output
|
828 hp
|
|
Speed 0-60 MPH
|
3.4 seconds
|
|
Cargo Volume
|
120 cubic feet (for 5 passengers); 114.3 cubic feet (for 7 passengers)
|
|
Battery
|
123 kWh
|
