California Energy Politics
A rare foray for me into the realms of energy, politics and state economy. This was something of strong personal interest to me.
Will the State Take Over PG&E? And If That is Possible, Is It Also Wise?
NAIAS 2020 Michigan Mobility Challenge Will Be Open to the Public
Autonomous vehicle demonstrations are ubiquitous at tech events and auto shows. But rides are usually only available to industry executives and journalists. For the 2020 North American Auto Show in June, the Michigan governor’s office, MDOT and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s PlanetM program joined forces to promote driverless vehicles to the public.
Five teams of vendors won the right to provide transportation not only to the show but, at least potentially, to other points of interest in downtown Detroit. The plan is to let anyone download a special version of the Moovit app and book rides on the driverless shuttles (that will, of course, have operators on board).
It’s a bold idea.
Carmakers: Upgrade Your Digital Experiences Now!
In the world of consumer services, we’ve heard for years that the digital experience can make or brake a brand.
As passengers vehicles become more and more automated, automakers will need to up their games and make the digital experience a more crucial part of the brand.
“Carmakers will face a huge pivot in advertising when their cars begin to drive themselves. No more will commercials showing people, hair blowing in the wind and driving into the sunset, make sense. Instead, they’ll need to play up factors such as reduced stress, comfort and relaxation.”
Software Is the Secret Sauce for Automakers
Or … not really secret. Many think that software is or will be a key differentiator for vehicles.
Why Do Infill Projects Have to Be Boring?
Boring is not the case with a new condo development on San Pablo Avenue in Oakland. In the 1990s, including the work of artisans in new construction or remodels was common. These days, this corridor is home to a lot block after block of new housing that looks like Holiday Inns. But not Wardenclyffe.
Could Connected Cars Benefit Society?
Services for connected cars are usually evaluated by whether they’ll benefit the automaker and/or the consumer. Looking beyond push notifications for the nearest fast-food joint, there could be some societal benefits from these services. This article examines the potential for social good.
Is Green Building a Luxury?
Sustainable materials and careful design don’t need to cost more than traditional methods and materials–or at least, not a lot more.
Jill Neubauer Architects designs luxury second homes in Cape Cod, and she insists on green building, with gorgeous results.
6 Tips for Making Green Luxury Homes the Showcase for Sustainability
Making a Company’s Sustainability Case
This was written on behalf of the CEO of Sunrun, showing how the company’s approach contributes to the public good, fueled by personal passion.
Earth Day: Start Local to Build Global Impact
Diversity and Inclusion Pay Off in Business
I wrote this post on behalf of an executive at Samsung Next, covering a panel on increasing diversity. See why this is so important for startups.
Evolving Drivetrains for Electric Trucks
There are two different approaches for turning trucks into EVs: create hybrids or go all-electric. Meanwhile, Toyota advances hydrogen-fueled trucks.