Month: July 2025

OMAHA, Neb., July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Everlight Solar is proud to announce that it has been named the 1st Overall Solar Service Provider in the 2025 Omaha’s Choice Awards, as recognized by the Omaha World-Herald. This marks another consecutive win for the company, reaffirming Everlight Solar’s leadership in providing reliable, clean energy solutions to the Omaha community.

The Omaha’s Choice Awards celebrate the area’s most trusted and outstanding businesses across various categories. Winners are selected by local residents who vote for the companies they believe best represent excellence, service, and community engagement.

“Being recognized once again as Omaha’s top solar provider is a tremendous honor,” states President and CEO William Creech. “It’s a reflection of the hard work our La Vista team brings to every solar installation, and of the trust the community has placed in us to power their homes with clean, renewable energy.”

Everlight Solar’s growing presence in Omaha has been fueled by its mission to make solar power accessible, affordable, and seamless for homeowners. With a customer-first approach and a reputation for innovation and quality, the company continues to lead Nebraska’s clean energy transition.

This award adds to Everlight Solar’s expanding list of accolades and underscores the company’s continued momentum in the renewable energy space.

About Everlight Solar:

Everlight Solar is the fastest-growing solar company in the Midwest, with operations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Idaho, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. Everlight Solar earned a spot on both the 2023 Inc. 5000 and 2024 Inc. 5000 lists in their first two years of eligibility. To learn more about open jobs or about going solar for your own home, visit www.everlightsolar.com.

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SOURCE Everlight Solar

DALLAS, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ecobat, a global leader in battery recycling, today announced the successful completion of the sale of its battery and polypropylene recycling business in Italy to Haiki + S.p.A. The transaction includes Ecobat’s facilities in Marcianise, Paderno Dugnano, and Bologna, and marks Ecobat’s exit from the Italian market.

“We are pleased to announce the completion of this transaction involving our Italian recycling operations,” said Tom Slabe, Ecobat President & CEO. “This sale marks yet another step forward in our strategic efforts to optimize Ecobat’s geographic footprint. We will continue to pursue additional opportunities to maximize value for shareholders beyond this transaction.” Mr. Slabe continued, “We are confident that Haiki’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will provide a solid platform for the continued success of the Italian business.”

Pirola Corporate Finance acted as financial advisor and ADVANT Nctm acted as legal advisor to Ecobat on the transaction.

About Ecobat

Ecobat is the world’s largest recycler of batteries, with operations across Europe and the United States. The company is dedicated to creating a more sustainable future by providing innovative solutions for battery recycling, resource recovery, and energy storage. Ecobat’s comprehensive approach ensures the responsible management of valuable materials essential to modern life.

About Haiki

Haiki+ S.p.A., a holding company listed on Euronext Growth Milan “EGM” (BIT: HIK, ISIN: IT0005628778), operates in the environmental and circular economy sectors. With its four divisions, Haiki+ aims to become one of the leading players in Italy for the circular economy.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Chelsey Berend
Ecobat
Press@Ecobat.com
1-888-317-4687 ext. 703

www.ecobat.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ecobat-completes-sale-of-italian-business-to-haiki-302496223.html

SOURCE Ecobat

• 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV pricing starts at $40,490¹ 
• Refreshed X-Line and X-Line Prestige models blend comfort and power 
• “Opposites United” design philosophy takes on a more confident and refined style with Kia’s LED star map lighting and distinctive amber DRLs
• New X-Line trim now available in 1.6T Plug-in Hybrid

IRVINE, Calif., July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Kia America announced pricing on the refreshed 2026 Sportage PHEV. With a refined exterior design accompanied by ultramodern interior technology, the 2026 Sportage PHEV is available in two well-equipped AWD variants. 

 A Cabin Designed for Seamless Connectivity, Ultimate Comfort, and Everyday Convenience 

Accompanying the modern and rugged exterior, the cutting-edge cabin on the X-Line Prestige boasts a 12.3-inch full Digital TFT Cluster + 12.3-inch ccNC Navigation system, available head-up display and multiple USB-C ports. Sleek accent trim with reduced smudging, ambient lighting design, and available leather-trimmed seating create a premium space loaded with technology and comfort. 

• Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC): 12.3-inch ccNC Lite plus OTA (Over-the-air updates) w/ standard wireless Apple CarPlay² and Android Auto³
• Digital Key 2.0⁴: Allows for keyless entry and lets you share your keys virtually with family and friends through the Kia Access app 
• Head-up Display⁵: Available 10-inch display projects Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), vehicle information, and turn-by-turn directions for Navigation, Apple CarPlay² and Android Auto³
• New Digital Features and Services available through Kia Connect⁶ elevates the ownership experience with streaming music, personal device connectivity with an onboard Wi-Fi Hotspot, and even allows the owner to customize the infotainment experience with their favorite NBA team to showcase their team spirit. Available through the Kia Connect Store, these features allow customers to personalize their car and offer the ability to add more features through OTA updates.  

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems⁷  

Available and standard ADAS systems help to create a more pleasant driving experience. 

Standard ADAS systems:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Auto Emergency Braking with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Car Detection is designed to use sensors and a camera to scan the road ahead for potential hazards and is designed to automatically apply brakes when a potential collision is detected. 
• Standard Forward & Reverse Parking Distance Warning: Helps detect obstacles and pedestrians in front and rear. 
• Hands-On Detection: Uses capacitive touch sensors to detect whether the driver’s hands are on the steering wheel. Additional available ADAS technology in the 2026 Sportage PHEV in upgraded X-Line and X-Line Prestige models.
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2: Auto Emergency Braking w/ Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Car Detection is designed to detect a vehicle, powered two-wheeler, pedestrian or cyclist ahead and warn the driver of a possible collision in certain situations.  
• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2): HDA2 is designed to adjust the speed of the vehicle when driving on limited/controlled access highways and freeways. 

Powertrain 

• Sportage PHEV: 1.6-liter turbo gasoline direct injection (GDI) and 72kW motor
• 6-speed automatic transmission with Paddle Shifters
• All-Wheel Drive⁸ with Multi-Terrain Mode
• 268 horsepower (+7 HP over previous model year)
• Kia-est. 34 miles of all-electric range*
• 2,000 lb. towing capacity⁹

What’s New 

• Turbo Plug-in Hybrid
  • 268 HP (+7HP) improvement due to a more powerful electric motor with output increasing from 66.9 kw to 72 kw
• Stop Assist Control (SAC)
  • Full stop capable when holding left paddle shifter
  • Active regenerative braking (Auto) based on road conditions and navigation

Click below for more information about the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV:  

• Vehicle specifications, including fuel economy 
• Features and Options 

Kia America – about us 

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*. 

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert

* Select trims of the 2025 all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

¹MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges. Actual prices set by retailer and may vary.
² Apple® and Apple CarPlay® are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple CarPlay® runs on your smartphone cellular data service. Normal data rates will apply.
³Vehicle user interface is a product of Google and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play store and an Android compatible smartphone running Android 4.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android, Android Auto, and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC or its affiliates.
⁴ Kia Digital Key 2 Touch requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
⁵Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
⁶  Purchase/lease of certain 2026 Kia vehicles with Kia Connect includes a complimentary 3-year subscription starting from new vehicle retail sale/lease date as recorded by the dealer. After your complimentary 3-year Kia Connect subscription expires, continued access to the full suite of Kia Connect services available on your Kia will require a paid subscription at the then-current subscription rate or your use of certain Kia Connect features may immediately terminate. Use of Kia Connect is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/privacy-policy.html) and Terms of Service (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/terms-of-service.html). Complimentary Kia Connect subscription is transferable to subsequent owner during the original Kia Connect service term. Only use Kia Connect when safe to do so.  Kia Connect may currently be unavailable for 2026 or newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts; please see the Kia Owner’s Portal for updates on availability. Kia Access with Kia Connect app is available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Kia America, Inc. reserves the right to change or discontinue Kia Connect at any time without prior notification or incurring any future obligation. Message and data rates may apply. Cellular and GPS coverage is required to use most features. Kia Connect features may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. For more on details and limitations, visit www.kia.com or your authorized Kia dealer. Apple and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Google and its related trademarks are trademarks of Google LLC or its affiliates.
⁷Advances driver assistance systems are not substitutes for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁸No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.
⁹ Towing required additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing capacity, additional instruction and warning. Always use caution while towing.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kia-america-announces-2026-sportage-phev-pricing-302496166.html

SOURCE Kia America

• 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV pricing starts at $40,490¹ 
• Refreshed X-Line and X-Line Prestige models blend comfort and power 
• “Opposites United” design philosophy takes on a more confident and refined style with Kia’s LED star map lighting and distinctive amber DRLs
• New X-Line trim now available in 1.6T Plug-in Hybrid

IRVINE, Calif., July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, Kia America announced pricing on the refreshed 2026 Sportage PHEV. With a refined exterior design accompanied by ultramodern interior technology, the 2026 Sportage PHEV is available in two well-equipped AWD variants. 

 A Cabin Designed for Seamless Connectivity, Ultimate Comfort, and Everyday Convenience 

Accompanying the modern and rugged exterior, the cutting-edge cabin on the X-Line Prestige boasts a 12.3-inch full Digital TFT Cluster + 12.3-inch ccNC Navigation system, available head-up display and multiple USB-C ports. Sleek accent trim with reduced smudging, ambient lighting design, and available leather-trimmed seating create a premium space loaded with technology and comfort. 

• Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC): 12.3-inch ccNC Lite plus OTA (Over-the-air updates) w/ standard wireless Apple CarPlay² and Android Auto³
• Digital Key 2.0⁴: Allows for keyless entry and lets you share your keys virtually with family and friends through the Kia Access app 
• Head-up Display⁵: Available 10-inch display projects Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), vehicle information, and turn-by-turn directions for Navigation, Apple CarPlay² and Android Auto³
• New Digital Features and Services available through Kia Connect⁶ elevates the ownership experience with streaming music, personal device connectivity with an onboard Wi-Fi Hotspot, and even allows the owner to customize the infotainment experience with their favorite NBA team to showcase their team spirit. Available through the Kia Connect Store, these features allow customers to personalize their car and offer the ability to add more features through OTA updates.  

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems⁷  

Available and standard ADAS systems help to create a more pleasant driving experience. 

Standard ADAS systems:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Auto Emergency Braking with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Car Detection is designed to use sensors and a camera to scan the road ahead for potential hazards and is designed to automatically apply brakes when a potential collision is detected. 
• Standard Forward & Reverse Parking Distance Warning: Helps detect obstacles and pedestrians in front and rear. 
• Hands-On Detection: Uses capacitive touch sensors to detect whether the driver’s hands are on the steering wheel. Additional available ADAS technology in the 2026 Sportage PHEV in upgraded X-Line and X-Line Prestige models.
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2: Auto Emergency Braking w/ Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Car Detection is designed to detect a vehicle, powered two-wheeler, pedestrian or cyclist ahead and warn the driver of a possible collision in certain situations.  
• Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2): HDA2 is designed to adjust the speed of the vehicle when driving on limited/controlled access highways and freeways. 

Powertrain 

• Sportage PHEV: 1.6-liter turbo gasoline direct injection (GDI) and 72kW motor
• 6-speed automatic transmission with Paddle Shifters
• All-Wheel Drive⁸ with Multi-Terrain Mode
• 268 horsepower (+7 HP over previous model year)
• Kia-est. 34 miles of all-electric range*
• 2,000 lb. towing capacity⁹

What’s New 

• Turbo Plug-in Hybrid
  • 268 HP (+7HP) improvement due to a more powerful electric motor with output increasing from 66.9 kw to 72 kw
• Stop Assist Control (SAC)
  • Full stop capable when holding left paddle shifter
  • Active regenerative braking (Auto) based on road conditions and navigation

Click below for more information about the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV:  

• Vehicle specifications, including fuel economy 
• Features and Options 

Kia America – about us 

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World’s Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the “Official Automotive Partner” of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles sold through a network of nearly 800 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*. 

For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert

* Select trims of the 2025 all-electric EV6 and EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.

¹MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges. Actual prices set by retailer and may vary.
² Apple® and Apple CarPlay® are trademarks of Apple, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple CarPlay® runs on your smartphone cellular data service. Normal data rates will apply.
³Vehicle user interface is a product of Google and its terms and privacy statements apply. Requires the Android Auto app on Google Play store and an Android compatible smartphone running Android 4.0 Lollipop or higher. Data plan rates apply. Android, Android Auto, and Google Play are trademarks of Google LLC or its affiliates.
⁴ Kia Digital Key 2 Touch requires an eligible Kia Connect subscription and a compatible smart device with an active data plan. Normal cellular service rates may apply when using a smart device.
⁵Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation.
⁶  Purchase/lease of certain 2026 Kia vehicles with Kia Connect includes a complimentary 3-year subscription starting from new vehicle retail sale/lease date as recorded by the dealer. After your complimentary 3-year Kia Connect subscription expires, continued access to the full suite of Kia Connect services available on your Kia will require a paid subscription at the then-current subscription rate or your use of certain Kia Connect features may immediately terminate. Use of Kia Connect is subject to agreement to the Kia Connect Privacy Policy (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/privacy-policy.html) and Terms of Service (available at owners.kia.com/us/en/terms-of-service.html). Complimentary Kia Connect subscription is transferable to subsequent owner during the original Kia Connect service term. Only use Kia Connect when safe to do so.  Kia Connect may currently be unavailable for 2026 or newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts; please see the Kia Owner’s Portal for updates on availability. Kia Access with Kia Connect app is available from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Kia America, Inc. reserves the right to change or discontinue Kia Connect at any time without prior notification or incurring any future obligation. Message and data rates may apply. Cellular and GPS coverage is required to use most features. Kia Connect features may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. For more on details and limitations, visit www.kia.com or your authorized Kia dealer. Apple and App Store are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Google and its related trademarks are trademarks of Google LLC or its affiliates.
⁷Advances driver assistance systems are not substitutes for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.
⁸No system, no matter how advanced, can compensate for all driver error and/or driving conditions. Always drive safely.
⁹ Towing required additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing capacity, additional instruction and warning. Always use caution while towing.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kia-america-announces-2026-sportage-phev-pricing-302496166.html

SOURCE Kia America

~ Will leverage advanced technology typically deployed in national security and defense ~

CHICAGO, July 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today, the WNBA’s Chicago Sky announced an innovative partnership with Moonshot, a global leader in countering online threats, to leverage national security technology to keep the team’s full roster safe. As the first team in the league to deploy this type of technology, the Chicago Sky is setting the standard for how sports organizations can proactively address online hate, harassment, and abuse targeting athletes. 

Moonshot’s goal is not just to understand the problem, but to solve it. Moonshot’s dedicated team of online security experts will use advanced technology to identify and remove concerning content, assess credible risks, take actions to mitigate harm, and help the Sky interpret the underlying drivers of online abuse.

“Hate and harassment have no place in sports,” said Nadia Rawlinson, Co-owner and Operating Chairman of the Chicago Sky. “Our partnership with Moonshot is about proactively tackling online hate, harassment, and abuse across social media and on the dark web, so our players and coaches can focus on the game of basketball and delighting our fans around the world.”

Chicago Sky players are leaders and role models on and off the court, a position which also places them at increased risk. The Sky’s decisive action to implement this solution reflects the organization’s long-standing commitment to player health and safety, including mental health and well-being.

“The data is abundantly clear. Female athletes, especially women of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, face disproportionate amounts of online harassment, abuse, and threats of violence,” continued Rawlinson. “Unfortunately, these incidents are increasing commensurately with the growth in women’s sports, sports betting, and use of artificial intelligence.”

The Chicago Sky-Moonshot partnership comes at a critical time when online threats against athletes and public figures across all industries are rising. For example, according to Moonshot’s findings, 92% of women in public life experience abuse online and 31% of this harassment is sexual in nature.

“We are honored to support the Chicago Sky in this strategic and pioneering effort to protect their players and coaches. Our work is grounded in a decade of national security experience understanding the origins of online abuse and what to do about it,” said Vidhya Ramalingam, CEO of Moonshot. We are grateful for the opportunity to leverage our technology and expertise to advance player safety at a time when interest in women’s sports is at an all-time high. We hope this unique, first-of-its-kind partnership will serve as a model for other sports teams and leagues.” 

About The Chicago Sky
The Chicago Sky is a professional women’s basketball team and proud member of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Founded in 2005, the Chicago Sky was the first independently owned women’s professional basketball team to join the WNBA. The Sky represents the heart, hustle, and resilience of Chicago on and off the court. The team made history in 2021 by capturing its first WNBA Championship. Committed to excellence in competition and impact in the community, the Sky is dedicated to empowering women and girls through sport, leadership, and advocacy. The team plays its home games at Wintrust Arena in Chicago’s South Loop. For more information, visit https://sky.wnba.com or @ChicagoSky on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

About Moonshot
Moonshot is the premier provider of global services to end online abuse and violence. Founded by national security professionals, Moonshot leverages technology developed initially to keep nations safe on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of State, and governments around the world. They use this same technology to keep athletes and entertainers safe from targeted threats online—ensuring they can perform on the global stage without fearing for their safety. Moonshot partners with leagues and conferences – from the Southeastern Conference to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, protecting all Team USA athletes during the Summer and Winter Olympics. Their partnership with the Chicago Sky is the first of its kind with a WNBA team. Moonshot is a longstanding safety partner of Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify, and has twice been named to Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies. They operate in over 60 countries and have offices in Washington, D.C., London, Toronto, and Dublin.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Tania Haladner
media@chicagosky.com
312-828-9550

Hannah Orenstein
moonshot@ssmandl.com
610-984-2061

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wnbas-chicago-sky-announces-first-of-its-kind-partnership-with-moonshot-to-protect-players-from-online-threats-and-abuse-302496025.html

SOURCE Chicago Sky