Month: May 2025

PHUKET, Thailand, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — U Power Limited (Nasdaq: UCAR), a global leader in a global leader in green smart energy grid innovation, announced that its Thai subsidiary, USWAP Co., Ltd., has successfully delivered 21 battery-swapping-enabled MG EP vehicles to Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited, a leading mobility service provider in Thailand, through a strategic partnership with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing & Service (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The vehicles will be deployed to enhance sustainable taxi operations across the island of Phuket, a world-renowned tourist destination. This landmark transaction marks the deployment of Southeast Asia’s first fleet of battery-swapping taxis, setting a new benchmark for sustainable transportation in the region.

Pioneering Battery-Swapping Green Mobility in Southeast Asia

The vehicles are equipped with U Power’s proprietary UOTTA fully automated battery-swapping technology, showcased at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show. This system enables a full battery replacement in just 3 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime for taxis, maximizing operational efficiency, and uninterrupted service for passengers. The deployment aligns with Thailand’s EV 3.5 Policy, which aims to subsidize EV adoption and establish a nationwide charging/swapping network by 2027.

A Model for Sustainable Tourism

Phuket, a hub for international tourism, faces growing demand for efficient and environmentally responsible transportation. The deployment of battery-swapping fleet will not only improve air quality but also position the island as a leader in adopting smart EV solutions. The battery-swapping infrastructure, supported by U Power’s network, ensures operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness for Auto Drive’s taxi operators.

Leadership Insights

Johnny Lee, CEO of U Power Limited: “This delivery is not just a milestone for USWAP but a leap forward for Southeast Asia’s EV transition. By partnering with Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing and Auto Drive, we are proving that battery-swapping technology can revolutionize urban mobility while aligning with Thailand’s carbon neutrality goals.” 

Representative of Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing & Service (Thailand): “Our financing model bridges the gap between cutting-edge technology and market accessibility. This project exemplifies how financial innovation can drive sustainable development in the EV sector.”

Dr. Akaranun Ariyasripong, Chairman of Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited, revealed, “The integration of U Power’s vehicles into Auto Drive’s fleet reinforces our commitment to delivering up to 2,000 electric taxis within 2025 and reducing carbon emissions in key tourist cities. The partnership includes comprehensive support for battery-swapping infrastructure, operational management, and financial services.”

Market Impact and Future Plans

This initiative establishes Thailand as a leading hub for EV innovation in ASEAN. USWAP is expanding its battery-swapping network across key urban centers and major transportation routes, with a focus on commercial applications including taxis, trucks, and logistics fleets. As Thailand’s EV market continues its rapid growth, U Power’s technology provides solutions to critical energy replenishment and grid stability challenges.

About U Power Limited

U Power Limited (Nasdaq: UCAR) is a vehicle sourcing services provider with a vision to become an EV market player primarily focused on its proprietary battery-swapping technology, UOTTA technology. UOTTA is an intelligent modular battery-swapping solution designed to provide comprehensive battery power solutions for EVs. Since its inception in 2013, U Power has established a vehicle sourcing network in China’s lower-tier cities, developed multi-types of battery-swapping stations for compatible EVs, and operates a manufacturing facility in Zibo City, Shandong Province, China.

For more information, please visit: https://www.upower-limited.com/ 

About SMAT

Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Leasing & Service (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (SMAT) is a leading provider of corporate vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions in Thailand. Established in 2003 as a subsidiary of Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Auto Service Co., Ltd., SMAT has over two decades of experience in supporting businesses with comprehensive mobility services and currently manages a fleet of over 10,000 vehicles nationwide.

About Auto Drive

Auto Drive EV Public Company Limited is a pioneering Thai company specializing in electric vehicle (EV) solutions aimed at promoting sustainable transportation and reducing air pollution. In collaboration with Grab Thailand, Auto Drive EV launched the “Electric Taxi Rental Project,” aiming to deploy up to 2,000 electric taxis by 2025 in key tourist cities across Thailand.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements reflect the company’s current view about future events. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs.

Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “propose,” “potential,” “continue” or similar expressions. The company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Although the company believes the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results. Investors are encouraged to review other factors that may affect future results in the company’s registration statement and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

For more information, please visit: https://www.upower-limited.com/

Media Contact: xing.wang@upincar.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/u-power-limited-nasdaqucar-partners-with-sumitomo-mitsui-to-deliver-southeast-asias-first-battery-swapping-taxi-fleet-in-phuket-302445903.html

SOURCE U Power Limited

PATH+ (Partner Alliance for Traceable Hygiene) brings a ‘Made in Europe‘ Solution to Market for TreeFree Diaper™ Eco Transparency

VANCOUVER, BC and FRANKFURT, Germany, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – GreenCore Solutions Corp. (GreenCore) today announced the launch of full-scale European production of its flagship TreeFree Diaper™, marking a major milestone in its Retail Private Label Program (RPLP). The diaper is now 100% Made in Europe and positioned to meet accelerating retailer demand across the EU.

This next-generation, tree-free disposable diaper is engineered specifically for private label distribution in grocery and pharmacy retail, where the majority of diapers are sold in Europe. It leverages GreenCore’s universal packaging system, allowing retailers to stock and restock high-performance, SGS-tested products under their own brand.

“Producing in Europe is more than a milestone—it’s a strategic move,” said Matthew Keddy, CEO of GreenCore Solutions Corp. “As retailers face supply chain volatility, tariff concerns, regulatory change, and consumer demand for eco transparency, GreenCore is proud to offer a truly sustainable, European made solution – ready for the shelf, and ready for scale.”

The timing comes as European diaper manufacturers and retailers prepare for two major shifts:

• The EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR), taking effect in December 2025, which mandates traceable, non-deforested inputs for all products sold in the EU.
• Proposed EU tariffs on U.S.-sourced pulp, which currently makes up over 80% of Europe’s fluff fiber supply – posing major cost risks for traditional pulp-based diapers.

By eliminating tree pulp entirely, GreenCore’s Made-in-Europe diaper line offers a compliant, tariff-resistant, and high-margin eco diaper alternative – designed for the demands of modern retail and responsible sourcing.

TreeFree Diaper™ products are available for retail onboarding across Europe, with fulfillment powered by GreenCore’s omnichannel logistics network, including regional warehousing and direct-to-store replenishment.

For sustainable sourcing and retail velocity, GreenCore has also launched PATH+ (Partner Alliance for Traceable Hygiene)—the European supply chain and traceability framework for TreeFree Diaper™. PATH+ includes upstream manufacturing and raw material partners, each aligned with EUDR compliance, QR-enabled Eco Score visibility, and full supply chain transparency. The program ensures that every unit sold under the TreeFree Diaper™ system is supported by a consistent, auditable, and performance-driven partner ecosystem—designed to deliver sustained retail sales growth and increased market share for private label retailers across Europe.

As a major innovation milestone, GreenCore also today is announcing the addition of Optimum Technology Group to the Partner Alliance for TreeFree Hygiene (PATH+) network. Optimum’s proprietary, pulp-free absorbent core platform is a breakthrough technology – establishing a new standard for ultra-thin, high-performance manufacturing of hygiene products without traditional fluff pulp.

“We’re proud to join GreenCore’s Partner Alliance for Traceable Hygiene (PATH+) supply chain partnership program and help scale the next generation of TreeFree Diaper™ in Europe,” said Kim Patchett, Group Director of Optimum Technology. “This collaboration with GreenCore aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver high-performance, tree-free solutions to the European market—where regulatory compliance, cost, and environmental impact are reshaping the future of retail hygiene.”

About GreenCore Solutions Core

GreenCore Solutions Corp. is transforming the hygiene sector with TreeFree Diaper™- an ultrasoft, pulp-free, ultra-thin eco diaper SGS-verified for quality. Designed for Europe’s retail hygiene market, it meets the rising demand-over 70%-from Millennial and Gen Z consumers for eco-certified, private label products. GreenCore links its Retail Private Label Program (RPLP) with the PATH+ (Partner Alliance for Traceable Hygiene) OEM network for traceable, scalable production. Each pack features a QR-Code linked to the company’s ‘eco Score’ app, delivering real-time tree-free sustainability and sourcing transparency information to today’s informed, eco-conscious shoppers our retail customers serve.  Visit: www.greencoresolutions.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/greencores-treefree-diaper-made-in-europe-via-path-oem-partner-program-302445622.html

SOURCE Soft N Dry Diapers Corp.

In Latin America, where social, environmental, and economic challenges are so diverse, strategic partnerships have become a key tool for advancing towards truly sustainable development. An 81-meter pedestrian bridge reconstructed with recycled materials exemplifies the power of alliances to protect our environment and transform lives in our region.

PANAMA CITY, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — What was once considered waste is now a symbol of hope. Thanks to the joint efforts of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex), the Panama Canal, and the Botellas de Amor Foundation, a new pedestrian bridge has been inaugurated in the Watershed of the Panama Canal, built from over 3 tons of recycled plastic. 

This initiative prevented this plastic waste from ending up in landfills, rivers, or oceans, transforming an environmental problem into a concrete solution that enhances the quality of life for communities and protects the natural environment. 

The structure, measuring 81 meters in length, connects four communities, significantly improving the mobility and safety of over 300 people. Beyond its functionality, this bridge symbolizes the power of collaboration to promote sustainable solutions and generate tangible social impact.

Jessica Janson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications and Social Investment at Bladex, stated: “With every step taken on this bridge, we reaffirm that waste can become a solution, and that a true commitment to sustainability has the power to transform lives.”

This initiative is part of Bladex’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy and reflects its commitment to sustainable development in Panama and the region. It is the second bridge of this type delivered by the institution; the first was inaugurated in 2023 in the Kosovo community of Puerto Caimito, Panama, as part of its vision to convert environmental challenges into opportunities for Latin American communities. 

“The purpose of Bladex is to build bridges between Latin America and the world to support the development of our clients and the region. Projects like this are an extension of that purpose brought to life within communities and form part of our contribution toward a more sustainable, inclusive, and human future for our region,” said Jorge Salas, CEO of Bladex.

The project was built using plastic profiles manufactured by Fundación Botellas de Amor from recycled materials and benefited from the operational and logistical support of the Panama Canal. The collaboration also included collection campaigns, environmental awareness initiatives, and volunteer activities led by Bladex and the Panama Canal.

“For the Panama Canal, being part of this project is a source of pride. It reflects our commitment to the environment and to the communities within the Panama Canal Watershed,” said Ilya Espino de Marotta, Deputy Administrator of the Panama Canal.

The Watershed of the Panama Canal is crucial at an international level as it is the source of water for the operation of the Canal. It is vital for global maritime navigation, facilitating the transit of ships between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and connecting 170 countries through 180 maritime routes. It is also key for the supply of drinking water for the Panamanian population. The watershed also hosts communities that are conscious of protecting their environment and a rich biodiversity, with significant protected areas. 

This bridge not only connects communities; it connects purposes. It confirms that when Latin America works in partnership, the results become stories that inspire. Therefore, Bladex will continue to promote initiatives with tangible impact that can progressively expand throughout the region. 

About Bladex

Bladex is a multinational bank originally established by the central banks of Latin American and Caribbean countries. It began operations in 1979 with the mission of promoting foreign trade financing and regional economic integration. Headquartered in Panama, the Bank also has offices in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and the United States, and a representative license in Peru, supporting regional development and serving a client base that includes financial institutions and corporations.

Bladex has been listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BLX) since 1992. Its shareholders include central banks and state-owned entities from 23 Latin American countries, commercial banks and financial institutions, as well as institutional and retail investors through its public listing.

Contact:

Jessica Janson – VPS, Comunicaciones Corporativas e Inversión Social

Correo:  jjanson@bladex.com<mailto:jjanson@bladex.com> / Tel.: (+507) 210-8500

Dirección Casa Matriz: Edificio Business Park, Torre V, Avenida La Rotonda, Urb. Costa del Este,

Panamá, República de Panamá

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bladex-and-the-panama-canal-an-alliance-transforming-plastic-waste-into-progress-for-communities-302445751.html

SOURCE Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (Bladex)

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In celebration of Women’s Health Month, the National Alliance for Hispanic Health is proud to announce a new collaboration to provide a direct link to the Merck Manuals at https://www.healthyamericas.org/resources. At a time when there is an abundance of health information on so many platforms this collaboration enhances the Alliance’s ongoing efforts to provide no-cost, accessible, accurate, and relevant health information to communities nationwide. The Merck Manuals are widely regarded as one of the most authoritative and trusted medical references available globally.

Through this collaboration, the Alliance is able to offer free online access to the Merck Manuals—a comprehensive and trusted medical reference. This resource is part of the Alliance’s educational initiatives, supporting individuals, families, and health professionals with reliable medical information in both English and Spanish.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the Merck Manuals in expanding access to vital health information,” said Dr. Jane Delgado, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health. “As we mark Women’s Health Month, this collaboration reflects our commitment to supporting women, who are often the lead advocates for health in their homes and communities, with the information they need to make informed decisions.”

Dr. Sandy Falk, Editor-in-Chief of the Merck Manuals, added, “We are honored to partner with the National Alliance for Hispanic Health to provide access to the Merck Manuals. This collaboration will help ensure that accurate health information is available to the communities they serve, empowering them to make informed health decisions and improve outcomes.”

The Merck Manuals are provided strictly as an educational and referential tool and are not intended to be professional advice. Though published by a pharmaceutical company, the Manuals are maintained as a non-promotional, independent medical reference, distinct from the company’s commercial products. Trusted by health professionals for over 125 years, the Merck Manuals are a leading global source of accurate, accessible, and evidence-based medical information for both providers and the public.

For more information and to access the Merck Manuals, please visit https://www.healthyamericas.org/resources.

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (The Alliance)
The Alliance is the nation’s foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for the health of Hispanics in the United States, with a mission to achieve the best health for all. For more information, visit us at www.healthyamericas.org.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/for-womens-health-month-national-alliance-for-hispanic-health-collaborates-with-the-merck-manuals-to-expand-free-access-to-trusted-health-information-302445833.html

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health

TAIPEI, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Under the theme “Access the Intelligent Transformation,” Apacer (TWSE: 8271), a global leader in industrial-grade digital storage, returns to the COMPUTEX main hall to showcase next-generation storage innovations that drive intelligent, sustainable, and high-performance computing — and meet the evolving demands of enterprise and consumer markets alike.

At Booth J1217a, Hall 1, Nangang Exhibition Center, Apacer will present a full product lineup featuring:

• CoreEnergy allows users to customize performance settings to meet the demands of power-sensitive applications.
• CoreVolt 2 utilizes real-time voltage detection and tantalum polymer capacitors to instantly stabilize power during fluctuations, ensuring uninterrupted SSD operation and data protection.
• New-generation BiCS 8 SSDs offer high capacity and lower power consumption.
• PT25R-Pi HAT SSD, a highly customized and Raspberry Pi-compatible solution, delivers advanced performance.
• A new fully lead-free SSD series designed in response to global ESG trends.
• The award-winning, eco-friendly AS712 Portable SSD with Essential Oil Diffuser incorporates recycled materials to support sustainability goals
• PCIe Gen5 high-performance SSDs empower creators to redefine their user experience.
• With read/write speeds up to 810/700 MB/s, the high-speed microSD Express card is built for next-gen game consoles.
• The ASUS TUF co-branded NOX TUF RGB DDR5 delivers immersive, high-performance gaming experiences.

“Storage plays a pivotal role in advancing AI, edge computing, and green infrastructure,” said Gibson Chen, President of Apacer. “We are pleased to return to COMPUTEX and showcase how Apacer enables businesses to access intelligent transformation, driving forward the next phase of technological evolution.”

Apacer invites global partners and media to experience its innovations firsthand at COMPUTEX Taipei 2025.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/apacer-powers-the-future-of-ai-and-green-computing-with-next-gen-storage-solutions-at-computex-2025-302445796.html

SOURCE Apacer Technology Inc.