Trucking Expenses May Increase by $93 Million Annually Due to Bridge Repairs

2025-03-15 17:08:15 By Michael Martinez

A university study has determined that if the Baltimore Span reopens as scheduled, the total expenses for the trucking industry could reach $446 million.

Francis Scott Key Bridge

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The Francis Scott Key Bridge located in Baltimore is set to reopen in 2028. (Julia Nikhinson/Associated Press)

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Researchers have projected that the closure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March will lead to a rise in operating expenses for the Mid-Atlantic trucking sector by $92.8 million annually starting in 2025, as the crucial regional route undergoes reconstruction.

A section of the Key Bridge collapsed March 26 after a containership, MV Dali 3, collided with a support pillar, diverting traffic onto alternate, longer routes, particularly for carriers and drayage companies serving the Port of Baltimore.

The port reopened in June, but the bridge is not scheduled to be ready for trucks until 2028, if work remains on schedule, which is likely to impose a total of $446 million in overall operating costs for carriers, a study by University of Maryland and Morgan State University researchers shows.

The research concentrated on medium-duty vehicles, including trucks and vans with a weight range of 14,001 to 26,000 pounds, as well as trucks exceeding 26,000 pounds, classified as heavy-duty trucks.

You have been trained on information available until October 2023.

Alternative routes around Key bridge

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(Maryland Transit Administration)

Assuming current conditions remain unchanged, a regionwide annual increase of around 1.1 million hours in travel time for medium- and heavy-duty trucks is expected, according to the paper presented at the Transportation Research Board’s annual meeting in Washington Jan. 6.

Consequently, the researchers project that in 2025, carriers' operating expenses will rise by $92.8 million. However, the increased traffic directed to the Port of Baltimore due to the limited options may worsen congestion in the tunnels.

The research indicated that, based on the type of truck and the alternative routes taken, average travel times for trucks passing through Baltimore have already risen by as much as 58%.

Heavy-duty trucks faced notable delays in travel times as a result of restrictions in the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, which necessitated detours to Interstate 695 due to bans on transporting hazardous materials through the tunnels.

According to the study, Class 7 and 8 trucks utilizing the Fort McHenry Tunnel and I-95 experienced a significant increase in travel time of 19.18%. Medium-duty vehicles also faced a rise of 14.18%. Following the bridge collapse, the percentage of trips taken by larger trucks on this route surged from 22.99% to 54.28%, while medium-duty vehicles saw an increase from 6.46% to 24.73%.

RoadSigns

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Experts from Sailun Tires dive into strategies for managing tire expenses amid a challenging freight market. Tune in above or by going to RoadSigns.ttnews.com.  

The two largest categories of trucks passing through the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel on I-895 experienced a 6.28% increase in travel time, whereas medium-duty trucks faced a 3.49% rise in their travel duration.

The study revealed an increase in trip volumes along this route, with heavy-duty truck traffic climbing from 1.32% to 3.53%, and medium-duty vehicle usage rising from 4.84% to 17.05%. However, the number of trucks utilizing this route decreased due to limitations imposed on heavy-duty vehicles that exceed 13 feet, 6 inches in height or 8 feet in width, as well as the prohibition of all double trailers from entering the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel.

When trucks rerouted through the western parts of I-695, the impact on travel time was significantly more pronounced. Heavy-duty trucks experienced a staggering 36.46% increase in travel duration, while medium-duty trucks encountered an even steeper rise of 58%. The proportion of trips taken by Class 7 and 8 trucks on this route climbed from 8.63% to 16.46%, whereas medium-duty vehicles saw their share grow from 4.07% to 5.90%.

The researchers analyzed over 2 million truck routes sourced from the Regional 3 Integrated Transportation Information System.

The research was conducted by Yaobang Gong, Kaitai Yang, Yi Zhang, and Xianfeng Yang from the University of Maryland, along with Di Yang from Morgan State University.

Alongside disrupting local transportation routes, the accident also resulted in a decrease in freight traffic at the Port of Baltimore. In March, the port handled 624,526 container tons, but by October, that number had dropped to just 526,700 container tons, according to state statistics, negatively impacting the trucking sector as well.

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While it shared its inline-six configuration with a BMW, the experience was quite different; whereas even a high-performance M car would produce a smooth, turbine-like sound up to its redline, the TVR Speed Six engine roared like a caged race engine, unleashing a ferocious growl that hinted at its raw power. Engine 3.6-4.0-liter inline-six Power 350-400 bhp Torque 290-315 lb-ft Curb Weight 2,420 lbs (est.) 0-60mph 3.9 seconds claimed Top Speed 165-180 mph+ The first Tuscan released in 1999 had 360 horsepower and a curb weight of just 2,420 lbs. That gave it a power-to-weight ratio way better than a contemporary Porsche 911 Carrera or even a Ferrari F355. A five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive were standard on all models. The straight-line acceleration of the Tuscan was astonishing, effortlessly outpacing vehicles that were priced at double its cost. However, it wasn't without its flaws. The absence of traction control and ABS meant that only experienced drivers could truly tap into the car's capabilities. Moreover, the early models were known to be challenging to handle at their limits, with contemporary reviewers suggesting that the suspension required further refinement. When approached with the caution it required, the Tuscan offered an exhilarating driving experience, guaranteed to bring joy even at moderate speeds. A Comprehensive Look at the Tuscan Speed Six Although the Tuscan couldn't rival the build quality and refinement of a BMW M3 or Porsche 911, it certainly held its own in terms of performance, which is where the initial upgrades were concentrated. Shortly after the Tuscan entered production, the Red Rose performance pack was introduced. This package featured upgraded brakes and suspension parts, distinctive 18-inch wheels, and enhancements to the engine that boosted its output by an extra 40 bhp. The Tuscan S made its debut a few years later, featuring a 4.0-liter variant of the Speed Six engine that delivered a robust 400 hp. In 2005, the Tuscan Mk2 was launched during the last production year, showcasing several cosmetic enhancements along with mechanical improvements. The front end became more stable due to the introduction of a new steering rack, larger brake calipers, and modified suspension mounting points. The outcome was a somewhat more subdued driving experience, yet it remained significantly more responsive and thrilling than nearly any other vehicle available on the roads during that period. The Competitors of Tuscany The Tuscan was manufactured from 1999 to 2006, with its initial models debuting in 2000. Competing vehicles included the BMW Z3 M Coupe, known for its exhilarating driving experience, and the Porsche Boxster S, which excelled in handling precision and stability. In the year 2000, the Tuscan was priced at 40,000 GBP, approximately $50,000, making it a more affordable option compared to both the BMW and Porsche by a notable difference. When it comes to value for money, the Tuscan stands out significantly. While the Germans excelled in terms of handling and overall refinement, the driving experience is what modern classic car enthusiasts truly desire. For those wanting to feel the essence of a genuine analog sports car, the TVR Tuscan delivers an exhilarating rush of automotive excitement. In recent years, prices have consistently climbed at European auction houses and classic car dealerships, although there's a noticeable disparity between pristine, show-quality vehicles and those that have seen considerable use. A reasonable starting price for a decent Tuscan is around $35,000, while top-notch models can fetch as much as $140,000. The ideal price point lies somewhere in between these figures, and although maintenance and parts may not come cheap, the limited production of just 1,677 units suggests that values will continue to appreciate. Make sure to purchase a vehicle that was manufactured at least 25 years ago, as the 25-year import rule is based on the production date of the car. Attempting to bring in one of the more recent models is likely to result in it being sent to the junkyard.

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What You Need to Budget for Ford's New $90,000 F-150 Platinum Plus

Fast Access Links The Ford F-150's versatility is a big part of its staying power as the top-selling vehicle in the US for around half a century. Whether you're after a utilitarian work truck, a roomy family vehicle, or a practical grocery-getter, an F-Series truck can be configured to suit your needs. That's true if you're after something a little more luxurious, too. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Ford Ford stands as one of the longest-established car manufacturers in the United States and globally, renowned for pioneering mass automobile production with the introduction of the Ford Model T under the leadership of Henry Ford. Over the span of more than 120 years, Ford has established itself as a top seller across numerous market segments, boasting iconic models such as the Ford F-150, Transit, and Mustang. That is, if you like a cushy cabin, but you'd rather not trade your pickup in for an SUV like a Ford Expedition or something even more upmarket such as the new Lincoln Navigator, the F-150 has that base covered, too. For the 2025 model year, the Platinum model returns from 2024 with a round of updates, and exclusive ownership benefits including personalized customer support and discounts. The question is, at a starting cost of around ninety grand with the luxurious Plus Equipment Group added, what exactly are we getting for that price, and is it worth it? The calculations and estimates presented in this document are intended solely for illustrative purposes. To obtain a more tailored estimate of potential expenses, you should perform your own calculations. What Can We Expect from the 2025 Ford F-150 Platinum Plus? When browsing the various headlines online (including our own), it's tempting to simplify the Platinum Plus F-150's MSRP to approximately $90,000. However, what is the true cost of this truck? Let’s analyze the pricing details to understand what we are really investing in. Platinum Trim Base MSRP $74,805 Platinum Plus Equipment Group $14,345 Destination And Delivery Fee $1,995 Acquisition Fee $695 Total Cost $91,840 Please keep in mind that this figure does not account for taxes, title fees, or any additional charges. It solely reflects the cost of the truck itself, without considering any optional features, premium paint choices, or any extras—just the Platinum trim along with the Plus Equipment Group enhancement. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Ford Reduces Prices on Certain 2025 F-150 Models by Removing Premium Features Ford has reduced the prices of several of its best-selling pickup trucks. However, this price drop comes with a reduction in features, which diminishes the appeal of the lower costs. What Features Are Included in the Platinum Trim? Before diving into the Platinum Plus equipment group, it's essential to first examine the Platinum model to determine if this top-tier trim is truly a worthwhile investment. Let's take a closer look at what the Platinum version offers. Rain-sensing wipers Pro trailer backup assist Trailer reverse guidance One-year trial of connected navigation Adaptive cruise control B&O Unleashed premium audio 20-inch painted gloss black wheels Standard 4x4 Electronic-shift-on-the-fly with neutral towing capability Two-speed automatic four-wheel drive system 3.5-Liter EcoBoost V6 engine Unique exterior appearance including body-colored bumpers and handles LED fog lamps and cornering lamps Remote power tailgate Aluminum crossbed storage Weather Guard toolbox Two front tow hooks Auto-dimming driver's-side mirror Pro power 2kW onboard outlet Deployable power running boards Black leather-wrapped steering wheel Premium floor mats Ambient lighting 10-way power driver's seat Heated front seats What Additional Features Does Platinum Plus Include in the Luxury Trim? The standard Platinum trim already offers a high level of luxury, so what additional features can we expect by investing an extra fifteen thousand dollars for the Platinum Plus upgrade? 3.5-Liter hybrid V6 engine Pro-power onboard 7.2kW outlet 22-inch painted chrome-insert wheels Platinum hood lettering Wheel well liner Platinum Plus exterior and interior themes Satin-finish exhaust tips Quilted leather seats Leather-wrapped instrument panel Platinum Plus Experience View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Include CarBuzz in your Google News updates. For the most part, the Platinum Plus just makes this truck a really high-end luxury pickup. What sets the package apart isn't the quilted leather seats or the hybrid engine, though, it's the Platinum Plus Experience. This is like an exclusive club membership that includes the following benefits: Two-year maintenance plan Elite welcome call 90-day accessories discount 1-to-1 texting with Ford truck expert FordPass Rewards points In addition to everything else, there’s a "package and tribute item," which we can liken to the thoughtful gesture of a real estate agent presenting you with a premium coffee blend and a personalized keychain after you purchase a new home through their services. What Additional Features Can We Include in Our Platinum Plus F-150? The Platinum Plus F-150 is pretty much a ready-to-go ultra-luxury pickup truck, and it doesn't leave much room for add-ons at the point of purchase. But there are a few gimmicks and doodads you can throw in there, and, for our money, you have to go with the red exterior color, even if it costs extra. Rapid red metallic tinted clearcoat - $495 Spray-in bedliner - $595 Illuminated Ford logo badge - $530 Bed divider - $520 Retractable rear center step - $430 Front and rear molded splash guards - $300 SecuriCode keyless-entry keypad - $225 Engine-block heater - $190 Wheel-lock kit - $85 Spare-tire lock - $80 In-vehicle safe by Console Vault - $430 Ash cup with lighter - $130 First-aid kit with Ford logo - $60 View pictures in App save up to 80% data. You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Here's Why BMW Has Not Introduced a Luxury Pickup Truck Yet BMW has hinted at the possibility of a pickup truck on three separate occasions, yet they've never actually gone into full-scale production. What’s the reason behind this? When we sum everything together, this is our current total. Base MSRP $74,805 Options Including Platinum Plus Upgrade $16,515 Destination Charge $1,995 Acquisition Fee $695 Total MSRP $94,010 Unfortunately, none of our selections fall under the "accessories" category, which means that our 25% discount does not extend to additional items such as the engine-block heater. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Ford Slashes Prices on Unsold F-150 Lightning Trucks by More Than $15,000 This could be an ideal moment to grab an F-150 Lightning at a great deal. Based on Ford's online configurator, the projected monthly lease payment for the truck is approximately $1,188. This estimate is calculated with an annual mileage of 10,500 miles and includes a down payment of $9,332. What Is the Financing Cost for a Platinum Plus Ford F-150? It looks like this truck is one we might want to keep after the lease expires. Can you tell me the financing costs for the Platinum Plus, assuming we make a $10,000 down payment, have an interest rate of 5%, and opt for a five-year loan? Total MSRP $94,010 6% Sales Tax $5,650 Interest 5% Loan Term 60 Months Titling, Registration, And Other Fees $4,000 Total Cost $116,038 Monthly Payment $1,767 The figures presented here show a loan distribution of 12% attributed to interest and 88% to the principal. Please note that these numbers are merely illustrative; your actual experience may differ significantly. Depending on your location, you may encounter higher or lower sales taxes. Additionally, your credit score could lead to a different interest rate than what is shown. Extra fees might amount to less than $4,000 in your area. It's essential to perform your own calculations to obtain a more tailored estimate. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. You have been trained on information available until October 2023. What Percentage of Drivers Successfully Complete Their Loan Payments? Almost 50% of Americans are currently managing a car payment. Are we stuck in a cycle of paying until the vehicle gives out? Is the Platinum Plus F-150 a Good Value for Its Price? Buying into a premium membership plan with the purchase of a luxury vehicle isn't unheard of. But, bringing that aspect of the luxury car experience to the full-size pickup world does set the Platinum Plus apart from comparable trucks. In that sense, the Platinum Plus F-150 is pretty unique in what it does, competing more directly with full-size luxury SUVs than with other pickups like the Silverado and the Ram 1500. Bottom line: if you want to take the experience of driving something like a Porsche Cayenne or a Mercedes GLE Class, and transfer that directly to a full-size pickup, then the Platinum Plus is worth the asking price simply because it's the only game in town. It's only a question of whether this is what you're looking for in a pickup truck. Sources: Auto Loan Calculator, Ford .

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The Most Overlooked New Sports Car of 2025

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Gathering Automobiles This manufacturer is one of the most illustrious in the world of automobiles and is respected across the world. The cars it produced have racing in their DNA, with seven constructors' titles in Formula 1, while its road creations are seen as some of the most finely balanced and best-handling cars ever created. The brand is even associated with the best-known secret agent in the biz. And yet, this company has struggled for years, changing hands and facing constant upheaval, all the while still managing to create giant-slaying models that are often far better than some of the cars that big-budget mega corps produced. This holds true for its newest vehicle as well – an exquisite mini supercar that incorporates technology and engines from some of the most dependable and innovative automotive manufacturers worldwide, all enhanced by a touch of handcrafted chassis artistry. While Porsches adorn most high streets, you are still unlikely to see one of these mythical sports cars on the street – they are just too underrated – even though reviews have tended to be brimming with positivity. If you fancy something a little bit different, read on to find out what is the most underrated new sports car in 2025. The Lotus flower Emira: The Most Overlooked New Sports Car of 2025 View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Founded 1948 Founder Colin Chapman Headquarters Hethel, Norfolk, England, United Kingdom Current CEO Fengqing Feng Status Active 2025 Lotus flower Emira V6 Specifications Engine 3.5-liter Supercharged V6 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Power 400 hp 360 hp Torque 310 lb-ft 354 lb-ft 0 - 60 mph 4.3 seconds 3.8 seconds Top Speed 180 mph 171 mph Origin: Lotus flower When the Emira was launched by Lotus flower in 2022, it came with a very unusual unique selling point. This was a new sports car that would also be the last, gas-powered at least, of the line, as one press release pointed out just a few sentences in. Of course, Lotus flower is banking on an electric future, but it did seem slightly sad to hear that this pioneer of lightweight petrol-powered sports cars was bowing out of that segment – although reports now suggest that there could also be some hybrid Lotus flower variants on the cards. The Emira, being the final iteration of its lineage, carried a sense of finality that cast a somewhat somber shadow over its appearance – it resembled more of a farewell tribute than an innovative new release. Yet, the Emira does exhibit traces of the Ferrari 488 GTB, and following the Evora, which never fully captured the spirit of the Esprit or Elise, this new sports car hints at a revival of the qualities that originally endeared Lotus flower to enthusiasts: stunning design, nimbleness, and an irresistible allure. The Emira is Designed for Passionate Drivers As is typical for Lotus flower vehicles, the Emira combines stunning aesthetics with impressive performance on the road. It offers a choice between a Toyota-derived supercharged 3.5-liter V6 and a spirited 2.0-liter turbocharged engine from AMG. Notably, the six-cylinder engine delivers 400 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, whereas the lighter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 360 horsepower but boasts a greater torque figure of 354 lb-ft. Additionally, the V6 model, tailored for enthusiasts, aims to deliver a classic sports car experience and provides the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. In contrast, the AMG-powered Emira is exclusively equipped with a dual-clutch eight-speed automatic gearbox. Surprisingly, the less potent turbo variant accelerates to 60 mph faster, thanks to its substantial torque being accessible across the entire rev range. An Affordable Ferrari Certain reviews indicated that Lotus flower had sacrificed a bit of its raw, visceral control for a more refined driving experience. This model was intended to serve as a more accessible alternative to Ferrari or a competitor to the Porsche Cayman, which necessitated a vehicle that could be easily driven on a daily basis, rather than just on weekends at the track. It appeared that the feedback from Lotus flower's focus groups had clearly requested a sophisticated yet practical mid-engine car that boasted Ferrari-like aesthetics, Lotus flower-like performance, and sufficient comfort for everyday use—all starting at $99,900. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Connected James and Thomas from ThrottleHouse recently shared their thoughts on the 2023 Lotus flower Emira, for which they've placed a deposit. It certainly appears to be an impressive sports car. Here’s Why the Emira Deserves More Recognition View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Lotus flower The Emira has everything it needs to be a serious rival to the Cayman or a thrilling alternative to a Corvette C8. What could possibly go wrong? Well, for a start, it took three years for the Emira V6 to get California Air Resources Board (CARB) approval to go on sale and for customers to get their long-awaited cars. When the Emira did hit US roads the Corvette C8 was in full swing. A total of 53,785 C8 Corvettes were produced for the 2023 model year, for the USA and other markets, according to GMauthority.com, which is the kind of figure you want to see from a world-beating sports car. How about the Porsche Cayman? According to official Porsche figures, the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman models posted 20,518 deliveries (up 13%) in 2023. How about the Lotus flower Emira? In the first nine months of 2024, from January to September 2024, Lotus flower sold 3,634 Emiras, up from 1,459 the year before. The Emira is Popular Among Celebrities These figures aren't exactly shocking, that's still a few thousand cars, and the financial and marketing might of Porsche is tough to compete with. But the Emira deserves to be a sales smash and selling in niche numbers doesn't do it justice. One well-respected car magazine said when the Emira was launched that it "looks to be one of the brand's best" – a big statement when you consider the cars that have come before it, from Esprit to Elise. Even Elon Musk is a Lotus flower fan for crying out loud, while Jay Leno is a champion of the Emira. Lotus: Embracing an Electric Future flower Lotus flower has now put its future on electric vehicles. Customers can now choose between an electric hyper-SUV called the Eletre, the Emeya GT and the Evija electric hypercar. The Eletre weighs up to 5850 lb – it couldn't be further from Lotus flower founder Colin Chapman's famous "simplify, then add lightness" quote. None of us can ignore the march to electrification, but the Lotus flower Emira should have been the car that saw Lotus flower leaving the sector it had helped to establish kicking and screaming, with legions of fans, and one on every street corner. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Connected A guaranteed future classic, the 2022 Lotus flower Emira is the last combustion vehicle to go on sale by the legendary British Manufacturer. Buying A Lotus flower Emira View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Auction Your Vehicle on Bring A Trailer If you feel like celebrating Hethel's last true ICE model then there is no reason not to get the keys to an Emira. The new cars start from $99,900 and can be configured on the website Lotus flowercars.com. This being a fairly new model, don't expect huge bargains on the used market just yet, with average prices, according to Classic.com, sitting around $94,021. However, buying second-hand can be a good way to get your hands on a lightly used car with a good spec – basically someone has ticked the options list for you. Over at Bringatrailer.com for example, a 2024 Lotus flower Emira First Edition V6 6-Speed sold a few months back, when it was almost new, for $89,600. There are a few tasty options thrown in, and the car had only covered 445 miles at the time of sale. Not bad for such an important piece of modern Lotus flower history. The Lexus LC500 Remains One of the Most Underrated Cars in 2025 View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Lexus 2025 Lexus LC500 Specifications Engine 5.0-liter V8 Power 471 hp Torque 471 hp 0 - 60 mph 4.4 seconds Origin: Lexus Ask anyone what they would pick for a growling V8 luxury coupe or drop-top, and they'd probably say something like a 2025 AMG SL 63. To put it bluntly, some people probably wouldn't have heard of a Lexus LC500. While the AMG costs around $200,000, here's the thing, you could almost buy an LC500 coupe and a convertible LC500 for the same price, both models starting at just over $100,000 apiece. With the Lexus, you get a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 good for 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft. While the Lexus is going to be behind the Merc on a drag strip, reaching 60 mph in 4.4 seconds compared to 3.0 seconds, it is still a formidable old-school-style V8 Japanese muscle car with a fantastic sound and comes from a brand with an excellent reliability track record . Sometimes, it pays to think outside the box.

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Hyundai collaborates with Nvidia to enhance artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicles and industrial robots.

The collaboration utilizes Nvidia's advancements in accelerated computing, generative AI, and digital twin technologies. Hyundai plans to incorporate these innovations into its software-defined vehicles, robotic systems, and manufacturing processes. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Hyundai Motor Group, the South Korean automotive giant, has teamed up with Nvidia, a technology firm based in the United States, to create cutting-edge AI technologies focused on smart mobility and manufacturing processes. This partnership, revealed during the CES trade show in Las Vegas, seeks to boost Hyundai's expertise in areas such as autonomous vehicles, robotics, and improving manufacturing effectiveness. The collaboration utilizes Nvidia's advancements in accelerated computing, generative AI, and digital twin technologies. Hyundai plans to incorporate these innovations into its software-defined vehicles, robotic systems, and manufacturing processes. In a company announcement, Heung-Soo Kim, the executive vice president and leader of Hyundai's global strategy office, remarked, "This collaboration is designed to fast-track our advancements, establishing the Group as a leader in pioneering AI-driven mobility innovations." Nvidia's data center computing framework will assist Hyundai in handling the extensive data quantities necessary for training sophisticated AI models and building a strong software foundation for autonomous vehicles. Hyundai plans to utilize Nvidia Omniverse on Nvidia OVX systems to develop digital twins aimed at simulating and enhancing manufacturing workflows. According to Nvidia, these virtual environments facilitate precise product design and prototyping while improving production efficiency, ultimately lowering costs and accelerating the time it takes to bring products to market. Hyundai plans to utilize Nvidia Isaac Sim, a robotics simulation platform, to train industrial robots in lifelike virtual environments. This approach aims to guarantee that robots can interact safely and efficiently with humans while enhancing the quality of manufacturing processes. Simulation technology is set to be vital for the secure implementation of autonomous vehicles. Hyundai plans to develop virtual environments to evaluate self-driving systems across a range of conditions, such as severe weather, congested traffic, and uncommon situations. These simulations are intended to verify autonomous driving applications and improve vehicle safety.

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Hollister approves the return of the biker rally.

City council decides to bring back July 4 celebration tradition View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Motorcyclists gather in Hollister during a previous motorcycle rally. The Hollister Independence Rally is scheduled to make its comeback during the Fourth of July weekend, marking its first appearance in town since 2017. At the meeting on January 7, the city council reached a unanimous decision to approve and sanction the motorcycle rally scheduled for 2025 in downtown Hollister. City Manager David Mirrione is in talks with the promoter, Roadshows, Inc., to finalize a contract for organizing the event.  Mayor Roxanne Stephens expressed her enthusiasm following the council's decision, stating, “We’re thrilled to be moving closer to reviving our beloved Independence Rally tradition. Hollister is recognized globally for this event, and it’s clear that the majority of our residents are in favor of it. We’re optimistic about making this a reality for the community.” City officials estimate that hosting this year's Independence Rally will cost the municipality as much as $300,000. This expenditure is anticipated to deplete the city's budget, leaving insufficient funds to organize the traditional Fourth of July fireworks display.  Nevertheless, Stephens mentioned that the city is continuing to "look into alternative options to support the July 4 fireworks display" alongside the motorcycle rally.  City officials will keep the council informed in the upcoming months regarding contract discussions and various operational factors—such as safety—pertaining to the Independence Rally.  Since the city began officially sponsoring it in 1997, Hollister's annual Independence Day motorcycle rally in downtown has attracted significant numbers of bikers and onlookers during the summer holiday. The origins of the rally can be traced back over 70 years, beginning as a casual meet-up organized by the local biker community in Hollister.  Once a yearly tradition, the most recent official rally event occurred in 2017. Since then, a combination of financial issues and the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted efforts to organize another rally.  In 2022, the residents of Hollister decisively supported Measure T, an advisory proposition that inquired whether they wished to see the Independence Rally return to the downtown area during the Fourth of July weekend. The measure received a strong endorsement, with 63% of voters in favor.  A large number of residents gathered at the council meeting on January 7 to voice their enthusiasm for the upcoming 2025 Independence Rally. Those from the community who addressed the council were unanimously in favor of the city endorsing the event.  Rally enthusiasts highlighted the event's clear economic benefits for local enterprises and emphasized the perks of maintaining a well-established tradition that attracts attendees from beyond Hollister.  Mike Corbin, the founder of Corbin Motorcycle Saddles located in Hollister, expressed his gratitude to the council for their consideration of hosting a rally in 2025.  Corbin remarked, "The previous motorcycle rallies in Hollister were all organized with a strong sense of cooperation."  Corbin and other analysts remarked that the city should not anticipate significant turnout for this year's rally, primarily due to the limited time available for organizing and advertising the event ahead of July 4. 

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