#EV for City Commutes

[vmantras]

Citroen eC3 Shine Review: Features and Performance Insights

₹13.2 Lakh Powertrain and Battery Performance and Efficiency Motor: The 41.92 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivers a modest 56.22 bhp and 143 Nm of torque. This setup is designed for city driving, with enough torque for quick starts at low speeds. However, it may lack the punch for high-speed overtaking. Acceleration: A 0-60 km/h time of 6.8 seconds highlights its agility in…

[aryburn-trains]

Eastbound MTA train of two Budd RDC-1s about to pass under the Bear Mountain bridge in New York's Hudson valley, December 24, 1976.

[cal-on]

Experience the Future of Mobility with CAL-ON-EV Electric Two-Wheelers

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Why Choose Calon EV Electric Two-Wheelers?

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Best Electric Scooters for Commuting in 2024

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Continue Reading: https://www.calonev.com/Experience-the-Future-of-Mobility-with-Calon-EV-Electric-Two-Wheelers

[luimnigh]

Here's a history lesson.

In 1916 in Ireland, there was an event called the Easter Rising. It was an armed rebellion against British rule.

It failed. Honestly, it never really had a chance, they focused on seizing symbolic buildings rather than strategic ones and very little happened outside of Dublin. After about five days of fighting, including artillery fire from a gunship on the River Liffey, the rebels surrendered.

The public opinion was actually against the rebels. It had been organized in secret, it took the public by surprise, and disrupted their lives. 260 civilians died (more than the combined casualties of the two fighting forces), and over two thousand were wounded, and the city centre of Dublin lay in ruins. The rebels were called "murderers" and "starvers of the people".

And then the British Army started executing the prisoners.

They were given secret trials, with no defense, presided over by the very military officers they fought against. Ninety people were sentenced to death within two weeks.

Within a week of their surrender, eight of the rebels had been executed. Within two, that number was fifteen. Their bodies were dumped in a pit on prison grounds, and covered in quicklime to destroy their remains.

Public opinion immediately turned. The outrage was so quick, so severe, that the rest of the death sentences were commuted. Of the 3,400 who were arrested (nearly triple the actual number of the rebels), 1,500 were released a few weeks later. Most of the rest were released on Christmas Eve of that year, and what was left in June 1917.

It didn't work. Any willingness to defend British rule of Ireland crumpled and died, and six years later the majority of Ireland left the United Kingdom and became the Irish Free State.

And while there were other factors (the draconian arrests, the radicalisation of previously apolitical people in the internment camps), there's one lesson that's very clear from the event:

A Martyr is an incredibly powerful thing.

[ink-flavored]

Anthology Blast Prompt 11: Hitting Love's Bullseye

for the Tales from Athendrolyn Anthology Full prompt list for the Anthology Blast Tips are appreciated!

Nicky bounced the balls of eir feet, waiting in line at the bakery. Ey had cut it a little close leaving the house today, but there was absolutely no way ey would skip this part of eir morning. Not even for the sake of being at work on time.

Moving to a new city was hard. Nicky had never lived anywhere so huge, busy, or intimidating, but the promotion was too good to pass up. So ey put on a brave face, packed eir bags, and set off for Athendrolyn. When ey got there, the first thing ey did in trying to make this new place eir home was any sort of routine. The walk to the train station on the way to the office passed by the cozy-looking Oxen Ovens bakery, and once ey tried it, it instantly became a part of eir morning commute.

The heady, warm scent of honey and bread filled the air of the Oxen Ovens bakery. The glass display that lined the counter burst with all kinds of pastries, tarts, breads, and other sweets. The walls were a bright dandelion yellow, the windows were wide and welcoming, and the floor tiles were decorated with little croissants. Everything about the place was inviting, open, and cheerful. Nicky loved it here. The atmosphere was friendly, the food was amazing, and the staff was…

Ey peeked through the glass of the tall display case, watching the warped figure of the minotaur behind the counter wrap up an order. Ey could only them from behind, covered in sleek brown bull’s fur starting at their mid back and climbing up their shoulders. Their thick white horns curved inward towards their face, oval ears sticking out underneath them. Nicky quickly glanced elsewhere when they turned around, but ey didn’t need to see them to know what they looked like. A bulls face with dark eyes, a pinkish nose with a silver hoop septum piercing, and a nametag pinned to the front of their sunny yellow apron: Sirras, he/they.

Nicky casually watched from eir peripheral vision as Sirras stuck the wrapped pastry in a bag and brought it to the other end of the counter where another customer waited. He wordlessly punched in the order on the cash register, and waited.

“I guess I’ll… pay with card?” the customer asked, a little confused.

When he said nothing, they fumbled a debit card out of their wallet and tapped it. Sirras completed the transaction in complete silence. He pinched the receipt from the machine, placed it on top of their pastry bag, and pushed it toward them

“Thank you for your business,” he said, gruff and short.

“You’re welcome…” the customer said. They took their pastry and left.

Sirras lumbered away from the register. Nicky stood straight up when ey realized ey were next in line, and he stopped right in front of em. He stared down at them over the glass display, much taller than eir human stature. Despite the fact that this happened every morning, Nicky’s breath caught in eir throat.

“Hey, it’s me again,” ey managed, hoping eir smile was normal. “I’ll do the usual. To-go this time, please.”

Sirras huffed in acknowledgement. From behind the counter, he reached inside the display for the line of croissants, large hands covered in plastic gloves. A contrast to his chocolate brown fur, his skin was as buttery gold as the fresh-baked pastry he took. Nicky hurried to the register before he caught em staring.

Most of the other customers seemed to find Sirras intimidating, but Nicky never understood why. Sure, they were a big dude and mostly silent, but that didn’t mean they were scary. They were never aggressive or rude, and they handled the orders with so much care. Each fold of the waxy paper around the warm goodies was done not just professionally, but passionately. Nicky had barely spoken to Sirras, but even ey could tell that he loved his job.

After a short wait, he brought eir croissant and a small black coffee to the end of the counter—the “usual” that ey ordered every morning. He punched in the order and Nicky dug out eir wallet.

“Here you are,” ey said, handing over a few bills.

He counted out eir change and handed it back. “Thank you for your business.”

“Thank you for yours!”

Nicky dropped a generous tip into the tip jar at the front, and left with eir breakfast and the world’s dumbest grin. It carried em all the way to the train station, the hot coffee replenishing the warmth in eir chest every time it started to fade. Once eir stop arrived, the reality of needing to power-walk down the street to have the hope of getting to the office on time settled in.

Luckily, ey were at eir desk before the rest of the department sent out a search party. Nicky dove right into the morning’s emails for a head start on the day, ignoring eir growling stomach. The croissant sat in its bag until ey managed to sneak away to the break room. Sitting down at the one table shoved up against the wall, ey unwrapped the pastry.

It wasn’t warm anymore, but the croissant hadn’t lost its golden luster. Nicky tore a piece off the corner, the flaky bread coming apart easily in eir white fingers. Despite being abandoned for nearly an hour, it melted in eir mouth, buttery and sweet on eir tongue. Nicky wondered if Sirras used some kind of magic to keep it fresh. Ey tore another piece off, savoring the treat.

The break room coffee wasn’t nearly as good, but ey made the most of what ey had and refilled the disposable cup from Oxen Ovens. It would have been easier to use a mug, but… ey didn’t want to. The logo was so cute, a little minotaur with oven mitts holding a tray of muffins stamped on the side. Nicky smiled at it, tearing off another piece of the croissant. The logo minotaur didn’t look like Sirras, but ey wondered if he had any oven mitts like that.

The swinging door pushed open and a halfling joined em in the break room. “Hey there, Nicky,” she said, red curls bouncing on his way to the coffee machine.

“Morning, Ada,” ey said. “Another coffee break already?”

Ada rolled their eyes, dragging the office footstool over. “I’ve got two back-to-back meetings with clients today, I need all the caffeine I can get in me.”

Nicky grimaced, grateful ey didn’t work in the sales department. “Yikes.”

“I’ll live. Probably.��� She pulled a mug across the counter. “What about you, hiding from the rest of IT?”

Ey laughed. “Not this time. I had a slow start this morning, and I didn’t get a chance to eat.”

“Mondays, right?”

“Mondays.”

Nicky tore off another piece of the croissant. Ada stepped off the footstool with a piping hot mug of coffee and pulled out a chair next to em at the table. He pointed at the logo on eir cup.

“Breakfast from the regular place, I see?” they asked.

“Yep!” Ey turned the cup around so she could see it better. “It’s on the way, so I picked something up on the way instead of sitting in. Somehow, I still made it here on time.”

“It must be pretty good, huh?”

“It’s amazing! It has great ambiance, the food rocks, and the owner is really nice too.”

Ada took a sip of their coffee. “Oh, that’s awesome, are you two friends?”

“Uh, well, not exactly.” Nicky tried to come up with a way to explain it. “They don’t really talk to me—or anyone else—but they know my order by heart now.”

He raised a brow over his mug. “How do you know they’re nice if you don’t talk?”

“I don’t, I guess? But they’re never rude to anyone when they do say something, and they take a lot of care with the food. And they wear a cute apron and have a nose ring…” That wasn’t exactly essential information, but Nicky felt it was important to include. “I don’t know, I just get a friendly vibe off them.”

“Ah, I see.” Ada put her mug down and leaned in suggestively. “Could this be, young love?”

“I—What?” Ey tried to laugh, but it came out like a sputter. “That doesn’t make any sense.”

They settled back, smug. “Sure it doesn’t.”

“You just said it yourself, we barely speak!”

“Actions speak louder than words, my friend.” He tapped the lid of the disposable cup. Before Nicky could protest again, Ada pushed out of their seat. “Anyway, I have to go prep for my untimely death. See you.”

Ey managed a weak bye as she left. The break room felt a lot warmer than a few minutes ago. Nicky slouched in eir seat, eating the croissant a little faster.

There was nothing implied about em going to the bakery every morning. Sirras probably had dozens of regulars throughout a day, much less a week or a month. Nicky merely took the time to appreciate his attention to detail, love for his craft, and his… fashion sense?

The more ey thought about Sirras, the more ey realized that ey didn’t know anything about him. Despite spending every morning in Oxen Ovens, Sirras only spoke to em at the cash register. Ey knew the basics about him—he worked at a bakery, presumably it was his bakery, and he probably had a thing for the color yellow—but that was all. And those weren’t even definitive facts!

Nicky frowned around the next piece of croissant. It felt strange, all of a sudden, to not know anything about him. Which pastries were his favorite to make? Which ones did he learn to bake first? How long had the bakery been open? Was it solely his, or a family business?

With each bite of eir pastry, buttery and flaky and perfect, Nicky grew more determined. It was far past time ey learned a thing or two about Sirras.

When ey went back to eir desk, most of eir hours spent working on the company website were accompanied by crafting a strategy. A strategy to get Sirras to say more than one sentence every morning. And ey were only one day away from trying it out.

Nicky made sure to get up on time on Tuesday morning. Ey got up earlier than on time, early enough that ey spent a little more time braiding eir thin brown hair into one long strand, finding some earrings to wear, and picking out a colorful shirt and their nicest work slacks to wear. For no reason in particular.

The line at Oxen Ovens was short, thanks to eir arriving ahead of schedule. Sirras didn’t seem surprised to see em, but then again, he had never seemed surprised about anything at all. He stared down at Nicky over the pastry display like always, waiting for eir order. And this time, ey weren’t going to blurt out the usual.

“Good morning,” ey said. “I’ll do a small black coffee, and I want to try something new today. Hm…” Ey tapped eir chin, glancing over the pastry display for a few seconds before giving up. “I can’t decide, what do you recommend?”

Sirras flicked his ears, head tilted. He glanced at the display, gloved hand lifted halfway. Nicky waited with a smile, fingers crossed behind eir back.

“The éclairs,” he replied, in his gruff way, “came out well this morning.”

“I’ll try it! For here, please.”

He grunted and picked the pastry out of line. Nicky almost skipped to the register—an extra entire sentence! Eir plan worked!

Sirras brought em the coffee in the same disposable cup and the éclair on a rectangular plate. Nicky paid and happily brought eir breakfast to one of the tables by the window. Ey checked the time on eir phone just in case—ey could enjoy the éclair, get to the train, and be at work with time to spare. Ey put it away and prepared to dig in.

The éclair was so pretty, ey almost didn’t want to eat it. The chocolate icing shined in the morning light. A little dollop of cream squeezed out from one end, with the swirly shape of those fancy piping bag tips. Nicky picked it up with both hands, the soft pastry squishing under eir fingers, and took a bite.

It was even sweeter than it looked, the light, airy texture bursting with the denser flavors of the chocolate and cream. Ey chewed slowly, savoring the collage of culinary excellence. It tasted so fresh, as if the icing had just set, despite no doubt sitting in a display case long past that time. The second bite was no less immaculate, the sugary taste now playing with the bitter coffee on eir tongue.

With the recommendation proving more than excellent, Nicky finished the éclair in no time at all. Ey left the table as easy to clean as ey could and waved to Sirras on the way out. He waved back. Ey were so glad ey were out the door before the elation could take control of eir face. An even dumber grin than usual painted eir cheeks all the way to the train station, and even after shoving thorough the morning crowd and being forced to stand the whole commute, eir heart felt as light as the éclair cream.

The reality began to sink in, then. Perhaps Ada had a point, that eir love for this bakery might have been for personal reasons, but it didn’t matter. Nicky had already made up eir mind to try and get to know Sirras better, and now ey knew that it worked.

But only for today. Sirras said the éclairs came out well that morning—tomorrow could be a completely different story. It wasn’t enough for em. Nicky needed something more substantial, something that wouldn’t change day by day. Ey spent another shift only half-focusing, concocting even more ideas to bring him out of his shell.

The next morning, the opportunity presented itself. Instead of a silver hoop, Sirras had changed their septum jewelry out for a gold one. Nicky saw it as soon as ey entered the bakery and knew exactly what to say to him this time.

“You changed your nose ring!” ey said, pointing to eir own nose. “I love it, it matches the rest of the décor.”

Sirras almost touched their face before thinking better of it. Their ears flicked. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome! I’ve been thinking about getting my nose pierced, too, since I’ve already done my ears in in a few places.” Ey raised a hand to adjust one of the hoops around eir cartilage. “It doesn’t hurt that much, does it?”

“No. It’s manageable.”

“That’s a relief. Maybe I’ll get one soon!”

Sirras nodded—a simple acknowledgment? Approval of eir choice? Nicky wasn’t sure, but ey got two extra sentences this time. Ey moved on to keep from holding up the line.

“Anyway, didn’t mean to talk your ear off. I’ll do the usual to-go, and can I get a little strawberry jam container to go with it?”

Another calm nod, and they prepared the order in their usual silence. Nicky waited at the register, as usual, rather pleased with emself. The golden hoop really did suit them, and ey hoped Sirras would wear it more often.

Sirras brought eir order to the register and rung it up, in silence. Not that ey expected anything less. Ey paid and scooped it off the counter.

“Thank you for your business,” they said. Before Nicky could reply, they added, “And… my ears are fine.”

It took em a second to understand. When it hit em, ey had a new record for eir goofiest smile. “Okay, I’ll keep that in mind!”

They waved at each other as ey left again and Nicky had an even better walk to the train station than the previous day. Ey were walking on air, flouncing up the stairs to the platform, probably blushing a little. It didn’t matter. Today was amazing. It couldn’t possibly get better.

Sirras proved em wrong. When Nicky unwrapped eir breakfast in the break room, ey found two containers of strawberry jam. The receipt only charged em for one.

For days, it went like that. Nicky made a small comment, Sirras made a small reply, and ey walked away on top of the world. Ada absolutely noticed, and teased em about it more than once, but Nicky didn’t care enough to be embarrassed about it. Besides, ey were regularly flustered enough to admit it.

It was extremely hard to resist a handsome minotaur who worked at a bakery. There was no point in denying it—at least to emself—and Nicky was not only not trying to resist, ey were practically flinging emself at Sirras. Ey wondered if he noticed. Ey wondered what would happen if he noticed, if he hadn’t already.

Even if he hadn’t, he was acting friendlier. Since that one Wednesday morning, Nicky regularly found extra containers of jam or butter in eir to-go packages that ey weren’t charged for. Sirras made their own recommendations based on what came out the best, and all of a sudden Nicky had a varied palette of breakfast pastries. The only thing ey ever turned down was the bagel with lox, because of eir fish allergy. Once ey mentioned it, Sirras never brought it up again. It was nice of them to remember. Ey wondered if they remembered for all their regulars. Ey wondered if they were close with their other regulars.

Nicky tried not to think about that part. For now, ey were just having fun getting to know the owner of a local bakery. The fact that said owner happened to be the best treat ey could have all morning was irrelevant. If something happened, it would happen on its own.

Ada didn’t seem to feel the same. She found Nicky at lunch, one day, as ey were picking at the leftover cinnamon bun from Oxen Ovens ey couldn’t dream of finishing in one sitting.

“Wow,” she said, eyeballing the pastry. “That thing is huge.”

“Can you believe this only half?” ey replied.

“Half?” They sat down with a whistle. “Must be minotaur sized, eh?”

Ey laughed and nodded, popping a torn piece into eir mouth. It took a moment for em to realized Ada was staring pointedly.

“What?” Nicky asked.

“Have you said anything yet?” he asked.

“Said anything to who?”

“The subject of your minotaur sized desire?”

“No.” Ey hunched over eir lunch a little. “I’m waiting for the right moment.”

Ada shoved eir arm. “If you wait for the perfect time, it’ll never happen!”

“You don’t know that.”

“What’s your idea of perfect, then?”

“Something romantic, obviously,” Nicky scoffed, to avoid admitting ey didn’t have one.

“You come into the office every morning looking like you just got proposed to with a harpy’s engagement dance. What could possibly be more romantic than whatever makes you feel like that?”

Ey gestured vaguely with another piece of the cinnamon bun. “I don’t want to do it on my way to work. It would be so rushed and weird.”

“So just hand them your number on the way out, easy.”

Nicky made a face. “That’s even weirder.”

Ada threw his hands up. “You’ll have to do it at some point. Unless you’re waiting for them to do it for you?”

“No, no way.” No matter how kind Sirras was, ey found it unlikely they would ever do something like that. “I’ll do it at some point, just… later.”

“Alright, whatever you say.”

Ada was willing to discuss other topics for the rest of their lunch hour, thankfully, and Nicky split the halved cinnamon bun into quarters with them just to finish it off. Back at eir desk, ey really did try to take care of something substantial, but kept staring out the windows. The cloudy sky hung ominously over Athendrolyn, high above the skyscrapers and apartment complexes that crowded the city’s downtown. The towering glass and steel buildings reflected the gray clouds, turning the whole block into a dark shadow. It was mesmerizing. Mysterious.

Nicky never thought ey would live in a place like this. After a lifetime of small towns, and later slightly bigger towns, a huge city was never in the cards until now. Athendrolyn was like a different dimension compared to those places—a vast, infinite plane where chaos reigned. People rushed around like the world was ending, no time to slow down and appreciate the little things.

Ey didn’t want to be like that. Rushing into everything, losing sight of the present. Maybe ey already had, pushing Sirras to talk to em before he was ready. He didn’t seem to mind it—but would he mind another nudge? Another prod from eir eager feelings?

A single raindrop fell against the window. Then another, and another, until the clouds let loose a downpour. The droplets pattered against the glass, and turned the already dark city into a blurry, wet haze of what it once was. Staring out at the deluge, Nicky realized something important.

Ey didn’t have an umbrella.

All of eir distressed thoughts about Sirras were quickly replaced by distressed thoughts of how ey were going to get home dry. For the rest of the work day, ey crossed eir fingers that the rain would stop before then. No such luck. It was raining harder on the way out of the office.

Running to the train station didn’t save em. Ey were completely soaked by the time ey got there, dripping onto the seats and floor of the car. Ey got more than a few pitiable looks from fellow passengers, and exchanged tired glances with a few others who had also forgotten umbrellas that day. Chilly water ran down eir back from eir water-logged braid. Ey would probably need to squeeze it out like a towel when ey got home.

Getting off the train at eir stop, the weather was no better. At street-level, bikes and cars splashed through the curtain of rain, clouds of misty water draping another blurry layer over the world. The train pulled out of the station, tiny waterfalls of rain running freely from between the tracks. Nicky peered at the sky, safe under the roof of the station. Dark gray clouds showed no signs of letting up. Ey groaned to emself, already wet and miserable.

Ey braced for impact and darted out from under relative safety. Cold raindrops struck eir head and back as ey hurried down the sidewalk, mumbling apologies to all the other pedestrians ey squeezed past. The drumming of the rain, race of tires, and crush of people made em want to crouch down and curl into a little ball. Ey were tired and soaked and just wanted to get home.

Thunder rolled overhead and the rain doubled its pace. Nicky threw emself under the nearest awning, a brief shelter from the storm. Ey watched, heart sinking, as the shops across the street got obscured by the downpour. Ey glanced at either side, wondering if any shops nearby would have an umbrella.

Ey startled at the sign ey saw overhead: Oxen Ovens. Ey looked up at the awning—the familiar yellow ey saw every day. Behind em, there was a tap on the window. Nicky jumped around and saw… Sirras. He had a cloth clutched in one hand, and the other beckoned em inside. Ey glanced at emself, drenched. Ey glanced back up and mouthed Really? He nodded.

To be polite, Nicky did try to squeeze out as much of eir braid as possible before heading inside. The cheery bakery was empty at this hour, the display nearly wiped clean of the goodies ey had picked from that morning. Sirras, still by the window, had a pile of dishes stacked up on a table. He must be cleaning up for the day. Nicky shivered awkwardly at the entrance, very aware ey were dripping everywhere.

“Are you alright?” Sirras asked. He set his cloth down by the dishes.

“I’m,” ey started, intending to insist ey were fine, but looked down at emself. There was no way he would believe that. Ey sighed instead. “I feel like a drowned griffon, to be honest.”

He snorted—a laugh?—and came over to the door. “Would you like a towel?”

“If you don’t mind, yeah. Thank you.”

“I was closing up anyway.” To prove it, he flipped the sign on the door above eir head. Then he crossed the bakery. For the first time, ey saw him below the waist. A long tail, brown at the top and fading to a fluffy white tip, sung from a hole in his waistband. He disappeared into a back room, leaving Nicky alone.

Ey rocked back and forth while ey waited, looking around. The rain slid down the awning and splashed on the sidewalk, giving the shop its own mini waterfalls. A contrast to the dreary outdoors, the bakery radiated warmth, a bright yellow beacon of sanctuary. It looked strange without a line of people at the counter, nobody sitting at the tables, and a near-empty display, but it still felt comfortable.

Sirras returned with a thick dish towel thrown over his arm and a glass teapot in his hands. He set the pot down at the table behind the one he was cleaning. Before Nicky could ask, he cleared the distance between them and handed over the towel.

“Here,” he said, and gestured back to the table. “You can sit, if you want to.”

“Thanks,” ey said. He returned to the table and his cloth.

Nicky patted down eir drenched clothes, squeezed eir braid out a little more, and slipped the towel around eir shoulders. Ey shuffled to the table with the teapot, sitting down with a wet squelch. The teapot had an infuser attached to the lid, a reddish color swirling through the clear water.

“What’s this for?” ey asked, pointing to it.

“For you,” Sirras replied, not looking up. “It’s strawberry.”

“For me?”

“You seem cold.”

It wasn’t untrue, but Nicky spluttered. “Y-You don’t have to, I’ll be fine!”

“I wanted to.” They swiped their table clean one last time and picked up the stack of dishes. “It should steep for a few more minutes.”

Speechless, Nicky could only watch them disappear into the back room again. Ey only planned to dry off, recover some dignity, and finish eir journey home. Ey could still do that, theoretically, by refusing the offer and leaving, but… Sirras did this for em. It would feel terrible to pass that up.

Ey watched the infuser paint the inside of the teapot a deep red, almost maroon. When Sirras returned, they had a teacup and saucer and a chocolatine on a plate.

“Come on, this is too much,” Nicky insisted.

 Ignoring eir protests, they set both on the table. “It would have gone to waste.”

“At least let me pay for it.”

“We’re closed.”

“Then—share it with me!” Both of them were surprised to hear that come out of Nicky’s mouth. Eir stomach jumped, but ey doubled down. “I already had that huge cinnamon bun today, I can’t eat this whole thing too.”

For the first time, Sirras looked stunned. Their ears tilted back and forth, tail swishing at their ankles. After so long ey thought ey would explode, they pulled out the chair across from Nicky, and sat down. Ey really didn’t care how dumb eir smile looked this time.

“Thank you,” ey said, scooting the plate to the center of the table.

His ears flicked. “It was supposed to be a gift.”

“It is. And now I’m sharing it.”

Nicky pulled the chocolatine apart at the center, gooey chocolate spilling out over the flaky pastry and onto the plate. It really shouldn’t have, though, unless he made it in the last ten minutes.

“Okay, I’ve been meaning to ask for a while,” ey said, tearing a piece off the end. “How do you keep everything so fresh all the time?”

Sirras pointed at the counter. “The display is enchanted. It keeps everything as fresh as when I put it inside.”

“That makes so much sense.”

“Why?”

“Because I just couldn’t understand how I can get a croissant you made hours ago, and have it taste like you just pulled it out of the oven.”

He snorted again—ey relayed hoped it was a laugh—and picked up his half of the chocolatine. “I’m sorry if it confused you.”

“I’m not.” Ey tore another piece off eir half. “Now I know something cool about your process.”

Sirras blinked, then glanced at the teapot. “It should be ready to pour now.”

Nicky filled the teacup to the brim, and enjoyed holding the warm cup in eir chilly hands for a minute or two. The tea was sweet and earthy, a perfect compliment to the pastry at the center of the table. They ate together in silence, Nicky tearing pieces off the chocolatine, and Sirras taking bites out of it. Sometimes, his fingers nudged the ring in his nose—the gold hoop.

If this wasn’t the perfect moment Nicky had been waiting for, ey didn’t know what was. They were alone, there was an excuse to stay, they were even sharing a treat together. Ey could blurt it out right now, if ey wanted. How much ey admired him and loved coming here every day. But ey had so many questions, so many important things to say.

“How long have you had this bakery?” ey asked. “I assume it’s yours, right?”

“It is,” Sirras replied. “I opened it eleven years ago.”

“Wow, that’s amazing!” Nicky held up a piece of the chocolatine. “It definitely shows.”

“Thank you.” He sniffed, folding his hands together on the table. “What… about you?”

“I’m a website designer,” ey said, a little surprised at how shy he sounded. “I’ve been at it for a while, but I just moved to Athendrolyn last year.”

“Is it good work?”

“I think so. I like that it’s a combo of creative and technical stuff. Plus, the company I work for now isn’t the most annoying place in the world, so it’s a decent gig.”

Sirras laughed—this time ey were sure of it. “Which company is that?”

“Luckystones, the enchanted jewelry place. They have an office downtown.”

He nodded, taking a bite of the chocolatine. Nicky sipped at eir tea. Sirras didn’t let the silence linger long before asking, “Do you like living in the city so far?”

Ey glanced out the window, watching the rain pour. “It’s different. I’ve never lived anywhere with so many people. When I first got here, I couldn’t believe how crowded the train got at rush hour.”

Sirras huffed and shook his head. “It’s a nightmare.”

“It was terrible back then, but I don’t mind it as much now.”

“Why not?”

Nicky shrugged. “I don’t know. I’m used to it, I guess. I have a routine now.”

He tilted his head, thoughtful. “It’s interesting how a simple routine can help us overcome so much.”

“Yeah, right? It’s pretty crazy.” Ey tapped eir nails on the sides of the teacup. “I’m… really glad I can come here every morning.”

Sirras flicked his ears, staring down at his hands. “I am too.”

Nicky’s heart leapt into eir mouth. “Really?”

“Yes. I enjoy speaking with you.”

Ey had no idea what to do. Ey never planned for this. Reflexively, ey reached for the plate, but the chocolatine was gone. Sirras still had his hands folded on the table.

“We can talk more,” ey tried, “if you want.”

“What do you mean?”

Nicky rested eir hand on the table, palm turned to the ceiling. “Maybe if you’re free this weekend or something, we can get dinner and… talk to each other?”

Sirras glanced between eir hand and eir face, ears flicking all over the place. Nicky started to wonder if, perhaps, he wasn’t silent and stoic all the time. Maybe he was just shy.

“Yes,” he finally said. He unwrapped his fingers and placed his hand gently in eir palm. “I would love to.”

Nicky beamed across the table and took their hand with joy. Ey didn’t care how long the rain lasted anymore.

-

Events Taglist: @foxys-fantasy-tales @thelaughingstag @ceph-the-ghost-writer @auntdarth @damageinkorporated @srjacksin @wyked-ao3 @alesseia @monstrify

Tales from Athendrolyn Taglist: @foxys-fantasy-tales @auroblaze @thelaughingstag @auntdarth @damageinkorporated @monstrify

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[rideboomindia]

RideBoom Revolutionizes Transportation with Innovative Solutions and Unmatched Convenience

RideBoom India is expanding its innovative ridesharing services to 20 more cities across India. Providing affordable, eco-friendly transportation options to the masses.

RideBoom, the leading transportation service provider, is proud to announce its commitment to revolutionizing the transportation industry with innovative solutions and unmatched convenience for riders and drivers alike.

Unmatched Convenience

RideBoom is dedicated to providing unmatched convenience compared to other transportation services. With the RideBoom app, users can easily book a car, taxi, or delivery service right from their mobile devices. The app connects users with nearby drivers or couriers, allowing them to get to their destination or receive their deliveries quickly and efficiently.

Innovative Solutions

RideBoom is constantly innovating to provide the best possible experience for its users. The company has recently expanded its Bike Taxi Service to additional cities, offering an eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation for short-distance travel. RideBoom is also exploring the integration of electric vehicles into its fleet, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and the EV revolution.

Commitment to Safety and Reliability

At the core of RideBoom's mission is a dedication to providing safe and reliable transportation services. The company has implemented stringent safety measures and training protocols to ensure that its drivers and couriers deliver a secure and comfortable experience for all users.

Transforming the Ride-Hailing Industry

RideBoom's innovative approach and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction have positioned the company as a leader in the transportation industry. By continuously introducing new features and adapting to changing market conditions, RideBoom is redefining the way people and goods move, ultimately transforming the ride-hailing landscape.

"RideBoom is committed to revolutionizing the transportation industry and providing our users with the best possible experience," said the RideBoom founder. "We are excited to continue innovating and expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our customers."

For more information about RideBoom India and its services, please visit https://rideboom.com/india/

About RideBoom India

RideBoom India is the leading ridesharing platform in the country, providing affordable, convenient, and eco-friendly transportation solutions to commuters across India. Founded in 2020, the company has experienced rapid growth and now operates in many cities, connecting passengers with a network of verified drivers. RideBoom India is committed to revolutionizing the way people commute and contributing to a more sustainable future.

[orphaned-in-storyville]

I’m a musician who played on Bourbon street on New Year’s Eve. Here’s what I have to say about the republican politicians trying to score points at the expense of all the people around me that night.

Every act of terrorism is inherently political. And since the right wing power structure in charge of this country is rushing in to speak on behalf of me and my friends and coworkers—the folks who work on bourbon street and have to deal with the aftermath of this attack—I’m going to speak out too. If you feel it’s crass to “politicize” this, remember, the terrorists and the politicians already have, so why not hear from an actual musician who was actually working that night on bourbon street.

When the people in power impose their moral code on the populace using violence. Weather it’s the cops attacking random black men during traffic stops, or the military of an apartheid state bombing civilians, or the oligarchs in control of a private prison system filling their jails to capacity. It’s called state-violence, and it’s legal. When people who are not in power use violence against random civilians to impose their own morals it’s called terrorism.

The only things that differentiates a Jihadist attacking bourbon street, from a military drone bombing civilians or a policeman beating a handcuffed man to death is the flag they waive. Whether the flag has an isis insignia, a Star of David or a thin blue line makes no difference to the victims. To kill civilians at random is an act of terror. To collectively punish the people is a war crime. These people are all the same. The terrorist, the conservative senator and the billionaire all believe you should be forced to do as they say and if you resist you should be punished with violence.

That’s why the gauntlet of conservative politicians using this attack to their own ends makes my blood boil. The beliefs of an average Republican senator today are barely different from the Islamic fundamentalists commuting mass murder. The state government that bans pornography for religious reasons, that forces their own religious iconography in schools, that makes divorce illegal, that arrests women for the way they dress, that arrests women for having an abortion when the pregnancy will kill them, or when the mother is 12 years old—has more in common with ISIS than they do with you or me.

The conservative politician’s psychopathic need to force their particular interpretation of their particular religion on us is exactly the same need as Isis. Which sect of which religion they impose hardly maters. The only functional difference is that the conservative power brokers that run our country have the law and the police on their side.

So to Trump and Landry and the slew of right wing demagogs trying to profit from the death and suffering on New Years, I’m telling you from the bottom of my heart, you are the same as the terrorists. Your psychotic need to impose your beliefs, and your willingness to use violence on innocent people to do so, puts you squarely in the company of all the other terrorists. Your views on women’s rights and religious freedom are barely different than ISIS. Through the policies you’ve imposed you’re already responsible for more deaths than the shooter. You are bad people to the core not just for using these deaths to your own advantage but because your beliefs and desires are barely different than the terrorist that committed them.

New Orleans is the freeist city I’ve ever lived in, in the least free state. The Louisiana government is controlled by religious extremists imposing their religious doctrines by force. These people are not like us. Senator Mike Johnson has an app on his phone designed for evangelical fundamentalists that alerts him if his son masturbates. JD Vance is an avowed Christian Nationalist who’s stated goal of making America a Christian Nation means forcing the country’s laws to abide by HIS interpretation of HIS sect of HIS religion, which means everything from no drinking on Sunday to making porn illegal to re-criminalizing marijuanna to forcing doctors to let woman die rather than perform abortions.

The same reason the Isis inspired terrorist chose the French quarter of New Orleans as a target—the debauchery, the decadence, the partying and music and joie de vivre that the city is known for, is exactly what the conservative terrorists that control our legislature hate about the city. The only point of contention the Republican dominated government and the Isis inspired terrorist have with one another is which sect of which religion gets to impose its totalitarian ideals on the rest of us. Jihadism is already here, it’s just called Christian Nationalism. Sharia law is already here it’s just called Project 2025.

[darkmaga-returns]

Foreign concept but there are people who enjoy big government and welcome additional taxation. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) held a celebration to kickoff New York City’s new congestion toll fees. That’s right – people gathered around a sign announcing the “Congestion Relief Zone” at 60th Street and held a countdown as if it were New Year’s Eve.

Motorists entering Manhattan at 60th Street or below will be charged $9 if in a car or SUV, $14.40 for non-commuter buses, $21.60 for big rigs, and $4.50 for motorcycles. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority needs to cover a $33 billion budget deficit, and per usual, the people are on the hook for the bill. The MTA is seeking to generate $68 billion over the next five years, and this congestion tax is one of many new fees coming to NYC area as the new toll tax is expected to generate a mere $15 billion.

Governor Kathy Hochul is utterly clueless. She plans to bribe families with an “inflation refund” by shelling out $500 checks to households in a move that will cost the state $3 billion. We saw this fail during the pandemic when citizens earning beneath a certain threshold were bribed to stay complacent. Hochul said she would not raise the income tax in 2025, but nothing is ever off the table.

“Your tolls pay for: better transit, cleaner air, safer streets, a livable NYC. Thanks!” one resident shared on a sign that they brought to the opening ceremony. Seriously, these people have no idea what they are celebrating. Commuters who cannot afford the tax will be forced to take the trains which are notoriously unsafe. In fact, there was a stabbing on the Metro-North on the very day that the congestion relief zone was implemented.

[t-top-apologist]

There's a lot to be said for Electric cars. They're heavy, somehow unreliable, massive hunks of steel and toxic chemicals by design AND necessity, sometimes very fast, serve as status symbols for the insufferable, and are known for intermittently ramming into people and other cars. When you really look at it, the electric car is as distinctly American as Apple Pie, the Chevy Small Block, and smiling at strangers on the street.

Yet many commentators overlook the most American aspect of electric vehicles: Tax Evasion.

See, despite the hefty annual registration you pay to put a sticker on your license plate each year, the real road tax for most automobiles is exacted on each gallon of fuel burnt. It's only fair, as heavier cars tend to use more fuel, meaning the vehicles that are harder on the roads and the people that use them the most will on average pay more to repair them.

You can see now how EVs throw a wrench in that equation. Not only do they weigh as much as half a dozen Honda Citys (INCLUDING the Motocompo foldable scooter), but they don't use a lick of pump gas while auto-piloting backwards off the nearest overpass.

The Federal Government is doing its darndest to make sure EVs make up the bulk of daily commuters within the next [TIMEFRAME GOALPOST MOVED TO TEN YEARS PAST CLIMATE APOCALYPSE], and local municipalities are facing the prospect of repairing roads on reduced budgets while these ion-fueled freeloaders erode the asphalt further with their multi-tonne zero-emission smugness machines.

Previously I was the one with a near-local monopoly on evading fuel tax, thanks to my advanced E85 brewing setup made from a lapsed whiskey still I found in the woods and my personal recycling enterprise (stealing used cooking oil from fast food greasetraps, fighting the raccoons for access to the greasetraps, training the local possums in counter-raccoon tactics, fighting rogue possum factions for access to the greasetraps, enabling a cycle of inter-mammalian violence so that I can fill the tank on my $200 300D wagon).

Now the municipalities are talking about "reporting mileage" and "Paying $400 yearly for infrastructure upkeep." This is what EV owners would define as an "Externality," another very American ideal.

In the long run this will probably help me. Most of my odometers are broken, and even if they aren't, the average mileage on one of my cars is 15 miles, 17 if you count the time I had to roll it backwards down a hill and push it into my garage. It's just the principle of the thing, I say, fending off another well-armed possum militia dead-set on acquiring my remaining catalytic converters.

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Inside Climate News:

Paulina Hernández inspected her new BYD King plug-in hybrid sedan when the sales team removed the oversized red bow and cover. She noticed a smudge on the “Time Grey” finish and her sales rep, Veronica Montoya, rushed to her side with a spray bottle and cloth. Montoya held them as she answered her customer’s questions over the next hour, ready to wipe away any mark or doubts that this sale would go through.

Hernández, 33, a classical dance instructor who lives in Mexico City’s tony Santa Fe district, had been looking for a better car for her daily 38-mile commute to the neighboring city of Toluca through the capital’s notoriously bad traffic. The BYD King, with an all-electric range of 31 miles and total range of 730 miles, sells for the equivalent of $24,940 USD.

“The idea is that I’ll pay off this car with what I save from not buying gasoline,” Hernández said.

She was the latest of what the sales team says has been an “explosion” of customers at BYD Santa Fe, the first of 30 showrooms the Chinese electric car juggernaut has opened across Mexico in the past year. The company plans to open 20 more dealerships in the country this year and soon will announce the location for a Mexico factory that will build 150,000 EVs per year.

This kind of rapid growth enabled BYD to overtake American EV pioneer Tesla as the world’s No. 1 electric vehicle company (when counting both its all-electric and its plug-in hybrids) in 2022. It’s now selling twice as many cars as Tesla.

All signs point to an EV future, and BYD’s charge across Mexico is a vivid demonstration of how China has positioned itself to dominate that future. The U.S. presidential election, with two different visions for autos, will help to determine whether the country will try to close the gap with China, or double down on fossil-fuel-powered transportation.

Inside Climate News has spent the year examining the rise of EVs through the lens of U.S. politics. President Joe Biden’s climate law, the Inflation Reduction Act, has set off an EV factory building boom. U.S. automakers are welcoming federal money and want to ramp up their EV lineups to compete globally, which is creating a wedge in the alliance between an auto industry and the oil industry. Auto workers are watching the changes with both trepidation and hope. Car dealers, meanwhile, are trying to figure out how to sell EVs and facing reluctance, especially in rural areas.

The tensions are made even greater by the growing awareness that a geopolitical rival is knocking at the door in the form of Chinese EVs.

Vice President Kamala Harris is likely to continue the Biden administration’s policy of using tax credits to jump-start a U.S.-based supply chain for EVs and emissions policies to nudge automakers away from internal combustion engines, while also using tariffs to keep Chinese imports off of U.S. dealer lots.

Former President Donald Trump, who calls himself “Mr. Tariff,” has proposed astronomical duties to keep Chinese EVs out of the United States. While Trump now says he likes EVs since Tesla CEO Elon Musk became one of his campaign’s megadonors, he sees them as suitable for only a “small slice” of the public. He has pledged to undo the policies that support domestic production of EVs.

[aionlinemoney]

Is Ola electric with AI a new feature or new problem ?

In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, Ola Electric is once again setting new benchmarks. The company has taken a significant leap forward by introducing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its services, making the Ola electric scooters not only sustainable but also smarter than ever before. This innovation ensures that riders experience optimum performance, efficiency, and convenience. With AI integration, Ola Electric is aiming to redefine the future of urban transportation by offering the best electric scooters in the market.

Ola Electric’s Vision for AI-Powered Transportation

As one of the leading brands in the EV industry, Ola Electric has been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge technology to improve rider experience. The use of artificial intelligence in their scooters will help monitor real-time data, predict maintenance needs, and optimise battery usage, ensuring that the scooter delivers peak performance. This AI-powered system is designed to provide more personalised services, making it easier for riders to manage their vehicles efficiently.

By integrating artificial intelligence, Ola Electric aims to improve the overall user experience, from battery life to route optimization. The scooters will be equipped with AI algorithms that will analyse rider behaviour, traffic conditions, and road patterns, ensuring that users always get the best electric scooter performance, no matter where they ride.

Enhancing the Best Electric Scooter Experience with Ola Electric

With AI making a prominent mark in Ola Electric’s product offerings, customers can expect a host of benefits. These scooters will now come with enhanced predictive capabilities, such as alerting users about potential wear and tear or suggesting the best routes to avoid traffic. This ensures that the scooters remain in optimal condition, providing a seamless experience for users. By implementing these features, Ola Electric is solidifying its position as the manufacturer of the best electric scooters available today.

Furthermore, Ola Electric scooters are designed to cater to a wide range of users, whether you’re a daily commuter or someone looking for an eco-friendly way to travel around the city. The introduction of artificial intelligence only adds to the appeal of these scooters, making them smarter, safer, and more efficient.

Ola Electric Scooter Price: Affordable & Smart

Despite the significant upgrades in technology, Ola Electric continues to offer competitive pricing. The Ola Electric scooter price remains accessible to the average consumer, making it one of the best value-for-money electric scooters in the market. By offering top-tier technology like artificial intelligence at a reasonable Ola Electric scooter price, the brand ensures that more people can experience the convenience and efficiency of the best electric scooter without breaking the bank.

Moreover, the AI-powered system helps riders manage their scooters efficiently, leading to long-term savings on maintenance and energy consumption. This intelligent system monitors battery health and advises riders on how to maintain it for maximum efficiency, thereby extending the lifespan of the scooter.

Why Ola Electric is the Future of Transportation

Ola Electric has consistently proven that it is more than just an electric vehicle manufacturer. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in its latest offerings. With the integration of artificial intelligence, Ola Electric is setting a new standard in the EV market by offering the best electric scooters equipped with smart technology.

The AI system is expected to bring about significant changes in how riders interact with their scooters, providing a more intuitive, user-friendly experience. Ola Electric scooters will be able to adapt to the unique needs of each rider, offering customised recommendations for energy savings, route planning, and maintenance. This makes it the best electric scooter for modern, tech-savvy consumers who are looking for both efficiency and innovation in their ride.

Conclusion: Ola Electric’s AI-Powered Future

AI is reshaping every aspect. To be prepared in this era, read the latest AI related blogs , news & be future ready. Incorporating artificial intelligence into their product line is a game-changing move by Ola Electric. It not only enhances the performance of their scooters but also adds a layer of personalization that was previously unheard of in the EV industry. With a focus on providing the best electric scooters at an affordable Ola Electric scooter price, the company is well-positioned to dominate the electric vehicle market.

As AI continues to play a significant role in transportation, Ola Electric is leading the way with its forward-thinking approach. Riders can expect smarter, more efficient scooters that offer optimum services, making Ola Electric the go-to brand for the best electric scooters on the market.

#aionlinemoney.com #olaelectric #bestelectricscooter #artificialintelligence #machinelearning #electricvehicle

[vmantras]

Citroen eC3 Shine DT Review: Affordable Electric Hatchback

₹13.35 Lakh Design and Build Quality Exterior:The Citroen eC3 Shine DT boasts a contemporary design with dual-tone color schemes and chrome accents, giving it a premium urban vibe. The bold matte black front grille and LED daytime running lights (DRLs) enhance its road presence. Wheel arch cladding and skid plates add a touch of ruggedness, while the body-colored bumpers and ORVMs (Outside Rear…

[aryburn-trains]

Bear Mountain bridge in background as RDCs to Poughkeepsie head north. Manitou, NY December 24, 1976

[cal-on]

Calon EV's Electric Two-Wheelers: The Future of Sustainable Transportation

Introduction: The Rise of Sustainable Electric Two-Wheelers

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of global conversations, sustainable electric two-wheelers are rapidly becoming a cornerstone of sustainable transportation. These vehicles are not just a trend but a necessary evolution in our transportation systems. Calon EV, a pioneering company in electric mobility, is leading the charge with its range of sustainable electric vehicles, designed to offer green commuting options in urban areas like Hyderabad.

As cities across the world grapple with pollution and traffic congestion, Calon EV's electric two-wheelers present a viable solution. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and perfectly suited for urban environments, making them a key player in the future of sustainable transportation.

The Future of Transportation with Calon EV

As urban centers like Hyderabad continue to grow, the need for sustainable transportation solutions becomes more pressing. Traditional fuel-powered vehicles contribute significantly to pollution, exacerbating the already critical issue of climate change. This is where Calon EV steps in, offering a range of sustainable electric two-wheelers that not only reduce emissions but also provide an efficient mode of transport.

Calon EV's mission is clear: to revolutionize urban mobility with eco-friendly electric scooters that are accessible, affordable, and above all, sustainable. By embracing green two-wheeler solutions, Calon EV is playing a crucial role in the shift towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.

How Electric Two-Wheelers Contribute to Sustainable Transport

The environmental benefits of sustainable electric two-wheelers are undeniable. These vehicles produce zero emissions, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with daily commuting. In cities like Hyderabad, where air quality is a growing concern, electric scooters from Calon EV provide a much-needed alternative to traditional modes of transportation.

Moreover, sustainable electric two-wheelers contribute to the reduction of noise pollution, another often overlooked aspect of urban living. The quiet operation of these vehicles enhances the quality of life in densely populated areas, making them a preferred choice for sustainable commuting.

Calon EV's focus on battery-powered two-wheelers aligns perfectly with global sustainability goals. The company's dedication to innovation in electric vehicle sustainability ensures that their products not only meet current needs but also anticipate future challenges in urban sustainable transport solutions.

Continue Reading: https://www.calonev.com/Calon-EV's-Electric-Two-Wheelers-The-Future-of-Sustainable-Transportation

[hamdank77]

The Ultimate Guide to Electric Cars: Best Choices, Affordable Options, and Everything You Need to Know

Top Picks for Electric Vehicles in 2024

A number of variables need to be taken into account while selecting the best electric car, including performance, design, technology, and range. Here are some of the standout models for 2024:

1. Tesla Model S Plaid

The Tesla Model S Plaid is a benchmark in the electric car market. With a range of over 390 miles and a 0-60 mph time of just 1.99 seconds, it sets the standard for luxury and performance in the EV segment.

Range: 390+ miles

Top Speed: 200 mph

Key Features: Autopilot, Full Self-Driving capability, 1,020 horsepower

2. Lucid Air

The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that combines futuristic design with remarkable performance. With a range of up to 520 miles, it currently offers the longest range of any EV on the market.

Range: Up to 520 miles

Top Speed: 168 mph

Key Features: Lucid DreamDrive, spacious interior, 1,111 horsepower in the Dream Edition

3. Porsche Taycan

For those seeking a sports car experience, the Porsche Taycan delivers with its iconic handling and design. Available in several variants, the Taycan offers an exhilarating driving experience with rapid acceleration.

Range: Up to 256 miles

Top Speed: 161 mph

Key Features: Porsche Electric Sport Sound, 800-volt architecture, advanced regenerative braking

Cheapest Electric Cars: Affordable EV Options

Electric cars are becoming increasingly affordable, making them accessible to a broader audience. Here are some of the best budget-friendly electric cars:

1. Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is one of the most popular and affordable electric cars on the market. It’s ideal for city driving and offers a solid range for daily commutes.

Range: Up to 149 miles

Starting Price: ,800

Key Features: ProPILOT Assist, e-Pedal, affordable maintenance costs

2. Chevrolet Bolt EV

The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a compact electric car that offers a surprising amount of range and features for its price point.

Range: Up to 259 miles

Starting Price: ,000

Key Features: DC fast charging capability, roomy interior, high safety ratings

3. Hyundai Kona Electric

The Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact SUV that blends affordability with functionality, offering an impressive range for its class.

Range: Up to 258 miles

Starting Price: ,000

Key Features: 8-inch touchscreen, regenerative braking, adaptive cruise control

Best Electric SUVs: Top Performers in the SUV Segment

SUVs remain one of the most popular vehicle types, and the electric SUV segment is growing rapidly. Here are the best electric SUVs to consider:

1. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a versatile electric SUV that combines the performance and technology of the Model 3 with more cargo space and an elevated driving position.

Range: Up to 330 miles

Top Speed: 135 mph

Key Features: Dual motor all-wheel drive, panoramic glass roof, Autopilot

2. Ford Mustang Mach-E

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is a bold new entry into the electric SUV market, blending the iconic Mustang design with modern electric performance.

Range: Up to 300 miles

Top Speed: 124 mph

Key Features: Ford Co-Pilot360, 15.5-inch touchscreen, Mustang-inspired design

3. Audi e-tron

The Audi e-tron is a premium electric SUV that offers a luxurious interior and smooth, quiet driving experience.

Range: Up to 222 miles

Top Speed: 124 mph

Key Features: Quattro all-wheel drive, Virtual Cockpit, adaptive air suspension

Electric Cars for Sale: Where to Find the Best Deals

Finding the right electric car at the best price requires a bit of research. Here are some top places to look for electric cars for sale:

1. Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Programs

Many automakers offer certified pre-owned programs for their electric vehicles. These programs typically include a thorough inspection and warranty coverage, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.

2. Online Marketplaces

Websites like Autotrader, Cars.com, and Carvana offer a wide selection of new and used electric vehicles. These platforms allow you to compare prices, read reviews, and even purchase vehicles online.

3. Dealerships

Local dealerships often have a selection of electric cars, especially in areas where EVs are more popular. Visiting a dealership allows you to test drive the vehicle and speak with a salesperson about available incentives.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Powering Your EV

One of the most critical aspects of owning an electric car is understanding how and where to charge it. Electric vehicle charging stations are becoming more prevalent, but it’s essential to know the types and locations of these stations.

1. Types of Charging Stations

Level 1 Charging: Uses a standard 120-volt outlet. It’s the slowest option, providing about 2-5 miles of range per hour of charging.

Level 2 Charging: Requires a 240-volt outlet, similar to what is used for large appliances like dryers. It provides about 10-60 miles of range per hour.

DC Fast Charging: These stations provide the fastest charge, delivering 60-100 miles of range in about 20 minutes.

2. Finding Charging Stations

Apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Tesla’s own Supercharger network can help you locate charging stations near you. Many modern EVs also have built-in navigation systems that display nearby charging stations.

3. Home Charging Solutions

Installing a home charging station is a convenient option for many EV owners. Level 2 home chargers are the most popular and can be installed in your garage or driveway, allowing you to charge your vehicle overnight.

Electric Vehicles' Future

With developments in battery technology, autonomous driving features, and sustainable materials, the electric vehicle market is growing quickly.

1. Technology of Batteries

Electric vehicle (EV) range, charging times, and overall efficiency may all be significantly increased by further research into solid-state batteries and other cutting-edge technology.

2. Self-Driving Cars

Automakers are making significant investments in autonomous driving technology. The prospect of autonomous vehicles is growing because to initiatives like Tesla's Full Self-Driving Package and other comparable technologies.

3. Ecological viability

There is a growing emphasis on recycling materials and lowering the carbon footprint of manufacturing processes in the creation of electric vehicles, making the process more sustainable. Manufacturers who are spearheading the development of more environmentally friendly production techniques are Tesla and Rivian.

[energy-5]

Sustainable Development in Singapore: An Exemplar of Modern Urban Ecology

Strategic Advancement in Green Building: In an ambitious endeavor, Singapore aims for 80% of its buildings to be green-certified by 2030, a significant milestone considering its urban density. Changi Airport, an epitome of this initiative, integrates a myriad of eco-friendly features, including the Rain Vortex, the world's tallest indoor waterfall, enhancing its reputation as the "World's Best Airport" for eight consecutive years.

Solar Energy Initiatives: Singapore's commitment to renewable energy is evident in its solar power achievements. Surpassing 820 megawatt-peak (MWp) in solar capacity at the end of 2022, the nation is on track to reach its 2025 target of 1.5 gigawatt- (GWp).

Enhancements in Public Transportation: Singapore's sustainable transport strategy aims for 75% of peak-hour commutes to be via public transport by 2030. The expansion of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system and the introduction of eco-friendly buses are pivotal in this endeavor, aiming to reduce reliance on private vehicles and lower carbon emissions.

Promotion of Electric Vehicles (EV): The government's extension of the Electric Vehicle Common Charger Grant until December 2025 underscores its commitment to enhancing EV infrastructure. This initiative, covering up to 50% of the cost of smart chargers, has led to the approval of 267 EV charger applications across 107 condominiums since July 2021.

Vision of a "City in a Garden": Singapore's approach to urban development harmoniously blends with environmental stewardship, as seen in its goal to plant one million trees by 2030. The iconic Gardens by the Bay, with its Supertrees, symbolizes this blend of ecological innovation and urban living, integrating features like solar energy collection and rainwater harvesting.

Singapore's multifaceted approach to sustainability is a testament to its visionary leadership, integrating technology, policy, and community involvement to create a living model of a sustainable urban future.