#Hyundai Key Case

[wolfliving]

Self-driving urban taxis finding a market niche here and there, sort of

https://www.cbinsights.com/research/autonomous-vehicle-resurgence-transportation-mobility-opportunities/

Autonomous vehicles are back in the spotlight.

Equity funding to the AV space has tripled to $7.5B this year thanks to Waymo and Wayve (with a combined ~90% of funding).

Below, we highlight 3 key takeaways on the autonomous vehicle landscape.

1) Developers are targeting multiple autonomous driving use cases, with robotaxis in the spotlight

This year’s largest funding recipients are targeting multiple use cases.

Waymo (Alphabet subsidiary) is focused on robotaxis — where it’s seeing commercial momentum. The company is now considering expanding into the personal car use case by licensing its technology. Notably, one area it is not investing in is autonomous trucking, which it exited in 2023.

Wayve formed early partnerships with UK grocery retailers ASDA and Ocado, focused on home delivery of groceries. The company is now pushing deeper into robotaxis, including via a partnership with Uber. Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai framed Waymo's approach as “multiple paths to market” on the company’s latest earnings call. Waymo hit 150K paid rides per week in October.

2) OEMs are keeping their loss-making self-driving units afloat with fresh capital injections

Despite challenges like safety and delayed commercialization, GM and Hyundai have injected a combined $1.4B into their self-driving units this year.

Tech-native OEMs such as Tesla and BYD are amping up their efforts as well.

Tesla for example is gunning for a robotaxi, although the timing of the Tesla Cybercab launch remains uncertain.

OEMs keep their loss-making self-driving units afloat

3) In China, autonomous driving players IPO at discounted valuations

Chinese autonomous driving companies are leading an exit wave.

Horizon Robotics and WeRide went public in October, and Pony.ai, Momenta, and Minieye all recently filed to do the same.

An AV funding crunch in China (down 90% since 2021) is pushing many of these companies to go public at a discount to their last private valuations.

More broadly, China is also seeing growing adoption of robotaxis.

Baidu‘s Apollo Go service, for example, averaged 75K fully driverless rides per week in Q2’24 (up 26% YoY).

The bottom line

Autonomous driving has arrived gradually, then suddenly.

Robotaxi adoption is pushing some mobility players (like Uber and Lyft) and OEMs to reassess their strategies and recommit after reducing their exposure to the space.

CB Insights customers can dive into implications for transportation leaders in the full brief here....

[notsocheezy]

Brain Curd #99

Brain Curds are lightly edited flash fiction - practically first drafts - posted daily and sometimes written with the express intention of being terrible… but, you know, in an endearing way. Please enjoy.

I fell backwards onto the stiff, dry grass, and all I could see were gray skies covered with rain clouds. The air had been knocked out of my chest and it struggled to get back in as I flopped on the dirt like a tuna with a hook through its cheek.

Suddenly something else entered my vision. The perpetrator of my assault: the wendigo. It looked at me as I labored to breathe, and seemed neither concerned nor proud of taking me down. It leaned in close and whispered in my ear.

“You cannot kill what cannot be killed.”

It licked my neck slowly with the tip of its tongue, nearly reaching my hair, and ran off faster than the wind. I felt a drop of rain on my forehead.

Somehow, and I couldn’t tell you how, I made it back to my bungalow on the outskirts of town. I opened the door and collapsed onto the cot in the corner of the room as my father lounged on the bed and watched TV.

“Hey, what’s up?” He asked, not really paying attention.

I coughed and rolled over. “I was assaulted by the wendigo. Now I intend to kill it.”

“Is this how you want to spend your time here? Really?”

I groaned as I tried in vain to find a comfortable position. “I have no choice. It has tasted my flesh and will have developed a craving for it by tomorrow.”

“Then we should wait until then. It will come to us.”

“No. We must kill it today. It will be too late. Give me just a few minutes to recover… please.”

He scoffed. “Fine.” He grabbed the remote and changed the channel.

An hour later I awoke. Rain pitter-pattered on the sheet metal roof. I got up from the cot, sore in my back and ribs, and bandaged my scrapes. I couldn’t seem to remember where I’d parked, or indeed, what I was driving, so I pulled my keys from my pocket and clicked the rental fob. It was a Hyundai truck, parked across the street.

I went to the kitchenette and rummaged through the drawers for the largest knife I could find. It was nothing to write home about, and barely sharp, but it would do. I wrapped the blade in plastic and shoved it in my pocket.

My father growled when I kicked the bedframe to wake him from his nap. I tossed the shotgun at him and he caught it.

“You’re on shotgun duty,” I said. “And you’re driving, too. In both cases, don’t hit me.”

“Aren’t you going to be in the car?”

“Not after we take him down.” I pulled the knife out of my pocket just enough for him to see it. “I’m not letting that thing keep any of its blood.”

The truck bounced up and down on the uneven surface of the dry plains. It was endless dead grass and sky as far as I could see, broken up only by clouds and mud. There was no sign of the wendigo.

“Are you sure this is where it attacked you?” He asked.

“I’m certain this is where I was assaulted.” I said, looking every which way for the beast. “There’s nowhere for it to hide.”

I saw something move in the distance and motioned for him to hand me the gun. He began driving in its direction and it ran, just as fast as the car could chase it.

“Floor it.” I said.

“We can’t go any faster without losing traction.”

“I don’t care. Floor it.”

“Fine.”

He pressed the gas pedal to the floor and for a moment we sped up, but quickly we became stuck in a deep hole, moving mud more than we could move the truck. I jumped out and started running after the wendigo. I knew I would never catch it unless it wanted to be caught, but I held the shotgun up and fired it. The wendigo slowed, stumbled. I ran faster now, reassured that I had a chance. The truck raced past me.

“I got it out of the mud!” My father yelled out as he barrelled toward the monster.

This was no good. I wanted that beast to die at my own hands, not the grill of a rented truck. I ran faster, nearly keeping up, and got lucky. The truck got stuck in the mud again. I overtook it. I threw the gun to the side and pulled out the knife. I pounced at the wendigo, met its gaze, and it disappeared. I fell face-first into the muck.

“Ugh…” I lifted myself up and looked around. Nothing. My father walked up, his boots squeaking with each step.

“There’s always tomorrow.”

“No there isn’t!” I slammed my fist in the mud. “I’m leaving town tomorrow! I only got the room for two nights!”

He got quiet. The way he always did when he was ‘disappointed’ with me. The quiet only served to delay the loud.

[beardedmrbean]

Two Las Vegas teenagers accused of mowing down a retired police chief in a fatal hit-and-run last month allegedly also tried to kill another person and crashed multiple stolen vehicles in the same two-hour crime spree.

The alleged driver, Jesus Ayala, 18, and his passenger, Jzamir Keys, 16, both faced court on Thursday on a slew of charges, including murder, tied to the Aug. 14 rampage through Sin City that left 64-year-old Andreas “Andy” Probst dead.

The teens allegedly kicked off their spree just before dawn when they struck a 72-year-old cyclist with a stolen Hyundai sedan before fleeing and crashing the vehicle, 8NewsNow reported, citing law enforcement sources.

It wasn’t immediately clear how injured the elderly cyclist was in the initial hit-and-run.

Just 30 minutes later, the two teens were allegedly the ones who filmed themselves mowing down Probst — a retired police chief in California — as he rode his bicycle in a designated bike lane.

Horrifying video shot from the front passenger seat shows the stolen vehicle approaching Probst from behind and suddenly ramming him, sending him hurtling onto the hood and into the windshield.

The laughing teens then allegedly dumped the car, which was covered in blood, about 10 minutes away, the sources said — before stealing two more vehicles that they then crashed into each other near a shopping mall.

Ayala, the driver, was nabbed just hours later — and bragged to cops while in custody that he wouldn’t be locked up for long, KLAS reported.

“You think this juvenile [expletive] is gonna do some [expletive]? I’ll be out in 30 days, I’ll bet you,” Ayala told the cops, according to KLAS. “It’s just ah, [expletive] ah, hit-and-run — slap on the wrist.”

Ayala was hit with 18 charges, including murder, attempted murder and grand larceny.

His passenger, Keys, was arrested Tuesday.

Both teens are being charged as adults, according to authorities.

During their brief initial court appearance, neither teen spoke and they were not asked to enter a plea.

“Justice will be served in this case,” Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson vowed.

[masr356]

7 Buttons Remote Key Fob Cover with Keychain Fit for Hyundai Smart Key Case Compatible with Hyundai Ioniq 6 Azera Grandeur GN7 KONA Elantra 2023 2024 Key Sleeve Key Protective Cover-Brown | masr356.com

Price: (as of – Details) Product Description <img alt="Key Fob Cover" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/grey-pixel.gif" class="a-lazy-loaded" data-src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media-library-service-media/337e1be3-efe6-4b81-929a-c8a440f3f25b.__CR0,155,970,291_PT0_SX600_V1___.jpg"><img alt="Key Fob Cover"…

[atplblog]

Price: [price_with_discount] (as of [price_update_date] - Details) [ad_1] This TPU key cover is suitable for Hyundai Venue, Aura, Creta, Grand i10 Nios, Xcent, i-20, Elite i20 models. The product fits in perfectly on 3 button flip Key. Key Compatibility: 3 button remote key as shown in the image for reference. Do not purchase for any other key models. Full cover 360 degrees perfect to protect your expensive key. Protect your key from falling, shock and scratch. Make your key always keep new and safe. This TPU key cover case is easy to install and perfect snug fit, it feels soft and comfortable in hand, looks great and cool. It is beautiful in appearance, durable, scratch-proof and rust-proof. Please compare your keys' shape with the key image shown for reference so as to make sure that the product is suitable for your key. Key is shown for reference only and is not for sale. Upgrade Your Car's Interior and Exterior with AUTOFRILL Car Accessories. Package Includes: 1 x TPU Key Cover. Vehicle compatibility fit for Hyundai Model compatibility for Hyundai Venue, Aura, Creta, Grand i10 Nios, Xcent, i-20, Elite i20 (Compare Key Shape & Key Blade Before Ordering) Key compatibility 3 button flip key remote as shown in the image for reference. Do not purchase for any other key models Please compare your keys' shape with the key image shown for reference so as to make sure that the product is suitable for your key Package includes: One key cover only. Key is shown for reference only and is not for sale. [ad_2]

[jcmarchi]

NVIDIA advances AI frontiers with CES 2025 announcements

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/nvidia-advances-ai-frontiers-with-ces-2025-announcements/

NVIDIA advances AI frontiers with CES 2025 announcements

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NVIDIA CEO and founder Jensen Huang took the stage for a keynote at CES 2025 to outline the company’s vision for the future of AI in gaming, autonomous vehicles (AVs), robotics, and more.

“AI has been advancing at an incredible pace,” Huang said. “It started with perception AI — understanding images, words, and sounds. Then generative AI — creating text, images, and sound. Now, we’re entering the era of ‘physical AI,’ AI that can perceive, reason, plan, and act.”

With NVIDIA’s platforms and GPUs at the core, Huang explained how the company continues to fuel breakthroughs across multiple industries while unveiling innovations such as the Cosmos platform, next-gen GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs, and compact AI supercomputer Project DIGITS. 

RTX 50 series: “The GPU is a beast”

One of the most significant announcements during CES 2025 was the introduction of the GeForce RTX 50 Series, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell architecture. Huang debuted the flagship RTX 5090 GPU, boasting 92 billion transistors and achieving an impressive 3,352 trillion AI operations per second (TOPS).

“GeForce enabled AI to reach the masses, and now AI is coming home to GeForce,” said Huang.

Holding the blacked-out GPU, Huang called it “a beast,” highlighting its advanced features, including dual cooling fans and its ability to leverage AI for revolutionary real-time graphics.

Set for a staggered release in early 2025, the RTX 50 Series includes the flagship RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 (available 30 January), followed by the RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5070 (February). Laptop GPUs join the lineup in March.

In addition, NVIDIA introduced DLSS 4 – featuring ‘Multi-Frame Generation’ technology – which boosts gaming performance up to eightfold by generating three additional frames for every frame rendered.

[embedded content]

Other advancements, such as RTX Neural Shaders and RTX Mega Geometry, promise heightened realism in video games, including precise face and hair rendering using generative AI.

Cosmos: Ushering in physical AI

NVIDIA took another step forward with the Cosmos platform at CES 2025, which Huang described as a “game-changer” for robotics, industrial AI, and AVs. Much like the impact of large language models on generative AI, Cosmos represents a new frontier for AI applications in robotics and autonomous systems.

“The ChatGPT moment for general robotics is just around the corner,” Huang declared.

Cosmos integrates generative models, tokenisers, and video processing frameworks to enable robots and vehicles to simulate potential outcomes and predict optimal actions. By ingesting text, image, and video prompts, Cosmos can generate “virtual world states,” tailored for complex robotics and AV use cases involving real-world environments and lighting.

Top robotics and automotive leaders – including XPENG, Hyundai Motor Group, and Uber – are among the first to adopt Cosmos, which is available on GitHub via an open licence.

Pras Velagapudi, CTO at Agility, comments: “Data scarcity and variability are key challenges to successful learning in robot environments. Cosmos’ text-, image- and video-to-world capabilities allow us to generate and augment photorealistic scenarios for a variety of tasks that we can use to train models without needing as much expensive, real-world data capture.”

Empowering developers with AI models

NVIDIA also unveiled new AI foundation models for RTX PCs, which aim to supercharge content creation, productivity, and enterprise applications. These models, presented as NVIDIA NIM (Neural Interaction Model) microservices, are designed to integrate with the RTX 50 Series hardware.

[embedded content]

Huang emphasised the accessibility of these tools: “These AI models run in every single cloud because NVIDIA GPUs are now available in every cloud.”

NVIDIA is doubling down on its push to equip developers with advanced tools for building AI-driven solutions. The company introduced AI Blueprints: pre-configured tools for crafting agents tailored to specific enterprise needs, such as content generation, fraud detection, and video management.

“They are completely open source, so you could take it and modify the blueprints,” explains Huang.

Huang also announced the release of Llama Nemotron, designed for developers to build and deploy powerful AI agents.

Ahmad Al-Dahle, VP and Head of GenAI at Meta, said: “Agentic AI is the next frontier of AI development, and delivering on this opportunity requires full-stack optimisation across a system of LLMs to deliver efficient, accurate AI agents.

“Through our collaboration with NVIDIA and our shared commitment to open models, the NVIDIA Llama Nemotron family built on Llama can help enterprises quickly create their own custom AI agents.”

Philipp Herzig, Chief AI Officer at SAP, added: “AI agents that collaborate to solve complex tasks across multiple lines of the business will unlock a whole new level of enterprise productivity beyond today’s generative AI scenarios.

“Through SAP’s Joule, hundreds of millions of enterprise users will interact with these agents to accomplish their goals faster than ever before. NVIDIA’s new open Llama Nemotron model family will foster the development of multiple specialised AI agents to transform business processes.”

Safer and smarter autonomous vehicles

NVIDIA’s announcements extended to the automotive industry, where its DRIVE Hyperion AV platform is fostering a safer and smarter future for AVs. Built on the new NVIDIA AGX Thor system-on-a-chip (SoC), the platform allows vehicles to achieve next-level functional safety and autonomous capabilities using generative AI models.

“The autonomous vehicle revolution is here,” Huang said. “Building autonomous vehicles, like all robots, requires three computers: NVIDIA DGX to train AI models, Omniverse to test-drive and generate synthetic data, and DRIVE AGX, a supercomputer in the car.”

Huang explained that synthetic data is critical for AV development, as it dramatically enhances real-world datasets. NVIDIA’s AI data factories – powered by Omniverse and Cosmos platforms – generate synthetic driving scenarios, increasing the effectiveness of training data exponentially.

[embedded content]

Toyota, the world’s largest automaker, is committed to using NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin and the safety-certified NVIDIA DriveOS to develop its next-generation vehicles. Heavyweights such as JLR, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo Cars have also adopted DRIVE Hyperion.

Project DIGITS: Compact AI supercomputer

Huang concluded his NVIDIA keynote at CES 2025 with a final “one more thing” announcement: Project DIGITS, NVIDIA’s smallest yet most powerful AI supercomputer, powered by the cutting-edge GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip.

“This is NVIDIA’s latest AI supercomputer,” Huang declared, revealing its compact size, claiming it’s portable enough to “practically fit in a pocket.”

Project DIGITS enables developers and engineers to train and deploy AI models directly from their desks, providing the full power of NVIDIA’s AI stack in a compact form.

Set to launch in May, Project DIGITS represents NVIDIA’s push to make AI supercomputing accessible to individuals as well as organisations.

Vision for tomorrow

Reflecting on NVIDIA’s journey since inventing the programmable GPU in 1999, Huang described the past 12 years of AI-driven change as transformative.

“Every single layer of the technology stack has been fundamentally transformed,” he said.

With advancements spanning gaming, AI-driven agents, robotics, and autonomous vehicles, Huang foresees an exciting future.

“All of the enabling technologies I’ve talked about today will lead to surprising breakthroughs in general robotics and AI over the coming years,” Huang concludes.

(Image Credit: NVIDIA)

See also: Sam Altman, OpenAI: ‘Lucky and humbling’ to work towards superintelligence

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

Tags: agentic ai, agents, ai, artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, CES, ces 2025, cosmos, dgx, dlss, Gaming, geforce, genai, generative ai, gpu, graphics, hardware, hyperion, llama, models, nemotron, Nvidia, omniverse, physical ai, platforms, project digits, robotics, robots

[miami-local]

Teen Girl Allegedly Lures Man to Carjacking That Turns Deadly in Broward County Crime Spree

Teen Girl Allegedly Lures Man to Carjacking That Turns Deadly in Broward County Crime Spree

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Authorities believe a troubled 14-year-old girl named Serenity Anivin, also known as “Sasha,” lured a 25-year-old man to a carjacking that escalated into a deadly crime spree across Broward County. Serenity, who turns 15 in July, had previously been reported missing in 2022 by the Margate Police Department and disappeared again in 2023 after briefly returning.

According to juvenile court records, Serenity collaborated with five co-defendants: 16-year-old Justin Edmond, three 17-year-old boys (Jamari Peacock, Jermaine Walker, and Cameran Wright), and Cody Clark, who is 20 years old. All are accused of working together in a violent crime spree in May.

On May 11, their first alleged victim, Rider Prospère, met with Serenity at 10:15 p.m. in Hallandale Beach after being referred by a friend. Prospère was in his gray 2016 Dodge Charger when a group of armed teens, including Serenity, forced him out of the vehicle, striking and kicking him. The attackers stole his car, clothing, and chain, leaving Prospère fearing for his life.

The stolen Charger led to a high-speed chase involving Hallandale Beach police and Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies, eventually ending in a fatal collision with a 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by 68-year-old Patricia Ann Schmelz of Margate. Schmelz died from her injuries following the crash. Five firearms were found in the stolen vehicle.

Justin, Jamari, Jermaine, and Cameran face serious charges, including carjacking with a firearm, aggravated battery, and unlawful firearm possession. Justin Edmond, in particular, faces 28 charges, including vehicular homicide and aggravated fleeing. He remains in custody without bond on key charges. Cody Clark, the sole adult co-defendant, was also arrested and remains in the Broward County jail.

The case highlights the complex web of juvenile crime and its deadly consequences, leaving questions about Serenity’s role and the broader motivations behind the group’s actions.

[noticiassincensura]

The Cost of Charging an Electric Car in Each European Country, Illustrated in a Revealing Graphic

Spain ranks on the cheaper side of the list, although prices in countries like Norway stand out.

The Key is Renewable Energy

Opting for an electric car is very appealing due to its advanced technology and its direct benefit to the environment. Moreover, if we choose the right charging point, it can also be good for our wallet (especially if we have a home charging system powered by solar panels). This is a crucial factor when deciding on an electric vehicle, as both the charging network and the price to pay come into play, which varies significantly from one country to another.

In a graphic created by Visual Capitalist, it is clearly shown which European countries pay the most when charging their electric cars — and which pay the least.

The Data Iceland pays the least to charge an electric car, while Norway pays the most, with a significant difference compared to the vast majority of other European countries. This data comes from the European Alternative Fuels Observatory as of 2024, and Visual Capitalist has used data for a Tesla Model 3 to create the graphic.

The EAFO also allows for comparisons of the cost to charge other vehicles, such as the Honda e, Nissan Leaf, Dacia Spring Electric, Fiat 500e, Hyundai Kona Electric, XPENG P5, or Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S, with prices varying widely depending on each vehicle’s charging power.

Diverse Costs Taking this into account, and considering a charging time of 25 minutes, we find that Iceland, Portugal, and Finland are the cheapest countries, paying less than five euros for 100 kilometers of range. In this case, Spain is comfortably positioned with an average cost of 7.1 euros per 100 kilometers. At the other end of the list are Slovenia and Norway, with prices of 17 and 18.9 euros, respectively — by far the most expensive.

However, Norway’s case is interesting because it has the highest price on the list, but it is also a country that has wholeheartedly embraced electric vehicles. In 2020, 54% of new car sales in the country were electric. By 2024, that figure has risen to 84%, and it is expected that by 2025, 100% of new car sales will be electric or hydrogen-powered.

Renewables Play Their Role Interestingly, several factors influence the cost of charging an electric car in each country. Generally, countries with more renewable energy sources tend to have cheaper charging prices. There are other countries, like Germany, that are heavily investing in these energy sources, yet they still face high energy import prices, which is reflected in the cost of charging.

In the end, many factors need to be considered when making these calculations, including taxes, energy sources, the aforementioned investment in renewables, and energy prices within each country.

Challenges Looking at the graphic, and seeing that Spain fares well in terms of the euro/kilometer ratio, it makes one want to go for an electric vehicle. The problem here is not so much autonomy (with cars starting to meet expectations in this regard) but rather the availability of public charging points. In cities, this usually isn’t a problem, but in some parts of the country, they are scarce, and it is vital to check the route we want to take to know where those charging points are located. This is why 30% of electric vehicle buyers miss gasoline.

In this interactive map, you can see both charging points and the price per kilometer you want to achieve, but something that seems essential is that investment is needed to improve signage on roads, indicating charging points on highways and main roads. This is something they are already working on, but it seems to be a late response.

And, well, it’s also necessary for the plugs to work — something we’ve learned the hard way that isn’t always the case.

[hybridrentals1232]

Rental Vehicles for Rideshare: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Considerations for Rental Vehicles for Rideshare

When selecting a rental vehicle for rideshare, several factors should influence your decision.

Fuel Efficiency: High mileage is a given in ridesharing, making fuel costs one of the most significant expenses. Opting for a fuel-efficient car is paramount. Rental Vehicles for Rideshare This is one reason hybrid and electric vehicles are gaining popularity among rideshare drivers.

Comfort and Space: Comfort is critical not only for your passengers but also for yourself. Larger vehicles can offer more space and amenities but often come at a higher fuel cost. A balance between size and efficiency is ideal.

Rental Costs: The cost of renting the vehicle should make sense within your projected earnings. While larger or luxury vehicles might seem attractive, the goal is to find an affordable option that maximizes your profit margin.

Insurance and Maintenance: Many rental companies offer packages that include insurance and maintenance, which can alleviate some of the burdens of car ownership. Always confirm what’s included in the rental agreement.

Hybrid and Electric Options: As environmental concerns and fuel costs rise, hybrid and electric cars are becoming more viable choices for rideshare drivers. Their fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness can often outweigh the higher upfront rental costs.

The Case for Hybrid Cars for Rental Use

With the increasing demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective vehicles, hybrid cars for rental use have surged in popularity among rideshare drivers. These vehicles offer the best of both worlds: the fuel efficiency of electric cars combined with the long-range capabilities of traditional gasoline engines.

Why Choose a Hybrid?

Fuel Savings: Hybrid cars, such as the Toyota Prius or Hyundai Ioniq, are incredibly fuel-efficient. They use a combination of gasoline and electric power, reducing trips to the pump and lowering fuel costs overall.

Eco-Friendly: For drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, hybrids are an excellent choice. The reduced emissions not only benefit the environment but can also appeal to eco-conscious passengers.

Smooth Driving Experience: Hybrids offer a quiet and smooth driving experience, which can make long rides more enjoyable for both you and your passengers.

One of the best hybrid cars for rental use is the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. It offers an excellent balance of comfort, efficiency, and reliability, making it a top contender for rideshare drivers.

Best Hybrid Car Rental for Rideshare

When deciding on the best hybrid car rental for rideshare, the Toyota Corolla stands out for several reasons. It is a compact car that provides excellent fuel economy, a comfortable interior, and a reputation for reliability. The hybrid version of the Toyota Corolla enhances fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those who drive extensively for rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft.

Fuel Efficiency: The Toyota Corolla Hybrid offers up to 52 MPG, making it one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class. This helps reduce overall operating costs, allowing drivers to keep more of their earnings.

Comfort and Safety: The Corolla is equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, ensuring a safer and more relaxed driving experience. Its spacious interior and comfortable seating also make long hours on the road easier.

Reliability: Toyota has long been known for producing reliable vehicles, and the Corolla is no exception. With low maintenance costs and a reputation for longevity, drivers can rely on this vehicle to keep them on the road without frequent breakdowns or expensive repairs.

For drivers who prioritize fuel savings and a dependable ride, the Toyota Corolla rental car is a top recommendation. Its hybrid version is particularly suited for those working in urban areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic, where hybrids excel in efficiency.

[amolawasthiblog]

Pune: CBI registers FIR against three persons after recovery of Rs 7.97 crores in Rs 2000, 500 new notes

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case for cheating the Government of India, following the seizure of approximately Rs 7.97 crore in newly introduced currency notes from a Bank of Maharashtra branch in Pune. The seizure was made by the Income Tax department a week prior.

The First Information Report (FIR) names Sudhir Puranik, Director of Worldwide Oilfield Machine Pvt Limited, the company’s Chief Financial Officer Mangesh Annachhatre, and Satyen Gathani of Ishanya Hyundai Motors, along with unknown bank officials, accusing them of illegally acquiring large quantities of the new Rs 2,000 and Rs 500 notes.

The accused are alleged to have conspired to obtain the sum of Rs 7.97 crore, which included 39,893 Rs 2,000 notes and 19 Rs 500 notes.

The currency was discovered during a raid conducted by the Income Tax department on December 14. A total of 15 bank lockers belonging to Worldwide Oilfield Machine Pvt Limited were searched, leading to the recovery.

Authorities suspect that the accused individuals procured the currency through illegal channels, converting black money into white. Gathani is believed to have played a key role in sourcing the new currency notes from various avenues.

[vivekbsworld]

Car Hire in Calicut: Convenient and Flexible Transportation

Calicut, known for its historical significance and cultural heritage, is a beautiful city in Kerala that attracts tourists and business travelers alike. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or work, hiring a car in Calicut can make your trip more convenient, allowing you to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Here’s a guide to car hire Calicut, including options, benefits, and things to consider.

Why Hire a Car in Calicut?

Convenience: Renting a car gives you the freedom to travel on your schedule without relying on public transport or taxis. You can easily visit various attractions without the hassle of waiting for rides.

Exploration: Calicut is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including beaches, hills, and historical sites. With a hired car, you can explore nearby attractions like Wayanad, Kozhikode Beach, and Beypore.

Comfort: Traveling in a hired car provides a comfortable and private environment, making it ideal for families, business travelers, or those seeking a more relaxed travel experience.

Cost-Effective: For longer trips or when traveling with a group, hiring a car can be more economical than using taxis or ride-sharing services.

Types of Cars Available for Hire in Calicut

Economy Cars: Compact and fuel-efficient, economy cars like the Maruti Alto, Hyundai i10, or Tata Tiago are perfect for city driving and short trips.

Sedans: For a more spacious and comfortable ride, consider hiring a sedan such as the Honda City, Toyota Yaris, or Maruti Ciaz. These vehicles are suitable for longer journeys and provide a smooth driving experience.

SUVs: If you plan to travel to hilly areas or require more space, SUVs like the Mahindra XUV500, Toyota Fortuner, or Hyundai Creta are great options. They offer ample room and power for diverse terrains.

Luxury Cars: For a premium experience, consider hiring luxury cars such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, or Audi A4. These vehicles provide superior comfort, style, and features for an upscale driving experience.

Top Car Hire Services in Calicut

Zoomcar: A well-known self-drive car rental service in India, Zoomcar offers a diverse range of vehicles for hire in Calicut. Their platform is user-friendly, making it easy to book cars online.

Myles: Myles provides a variety of rental cars, including hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs, with flexible rental options and competitive pricing.

IndusGo: IndusGo specializes in self-drive car rentals in Kerala and offers various vehicles for different budgets, along with convenient pick-up and drop-off services.

Drivezy: Known for its extensive fleet of rental cars, Drivezy allows you to choose from multiple vehicle types, offering flexibility and convenience in the rental process.

Savaari: Savaari is a trusted name in car rentals across India, offering a range of self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars in Calicut.

Key Considerations When Hiring a Car in Calicut

Booking in Advance: It’s advisable to book your car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and to secure the best rates.

Documentation: Most rental services require drivers to be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driving license. Be sure to have the necessary documents ready for verification.

Security Deposit: Be prepared to pay a security deposit when hiring a car. This amount is refundable upon returning the vehicle in good condition.

Insurance Coverage: Ensure that the rental car is covered by comprehensive insurance. Familiarize yourself with the policy details to understand what is covered in case of an accident or damage.

Fuel Policy: Check the fuel policy of the rental service before hiring. Most companies provide cars with a full tank and expect it to be returned in the same condition.

Condition of the Vehicle: Before driving off, inspect the car for any existing damage and ensure that everything is in working order, including brakes, lights, and tires.

Exploring Calicut and Beyond

With your hired car, you can easily explore various attractions in and around Calicut, including:

Kozhikode Beach: Relax by the shore, enjoy local delicacies from nearby stalls, and watch the beautiful sunset.

S.M. Street (Sweet Meat Street): Famous for its snacks and sweets, this bustling market is a must-visit for food lovers.

Kakkayam Dam: A picturesque location surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for picnics and nature walks.

Beypore Beach: Known for its serene beauty and shipbuilding yard, Beypore is ideal for a peaceful day out.

Wayanad: A short drive from Calicut, Wayanad offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries for nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Hiring a car in Calicut is an excellent way to enhance your travel experience, offering the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With various rental services providing a range of vehicles, you can find the perfect car to suit your needs and preferences. Enjoy the convenience and comfort of a hired car as you discover the beauty and culture of Calicut!

[abbotsford]

Finding the Best Deals on Cars for Sale in Epping A Complete Guide

 Looking for cars for sale in Epping can feel overwhelming with so many options available, from dealerships to private sellers. Whether you're in the market for a new vehicle, a reliable used car, or a family-friendly SUV, Epping offers a wide range of choices for every budget. This guide will walk you through the best ways to find a car, what to look out for when buying, and how to secure a great deal in the process.

Why Choose Epping for Your Next Car Purchase?

Epping, located in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, is a prime spot for car buyers. The area is home to several reputable car dealerships, both for new and used vehicles, offering a diverse selection of cars at competitive prices. Additionally, Epping’s proximity to major roads and highways makes it convenient for test drives and easier access to a variety of car sellers.

Whether you're buying from a dealership or looking for a private sale, Epping is a hub where you can find everything from compact city cars to family SUVs.

Exploring Dealerships in Epping

When searching for cars for sale in Epping, one of the best places to start is local dealerships. Dealerships offer several advantages, such as:

Variety of Choices Dealerships in Epping typically offer a wide variety of makes and models, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury vehicles. Whether you’re interested in a brand-new car or a well-maintained used model, you can easily compare cars side by side.

Warranty and Service Purchasing from a reputable dealer often comes with warranties and service guarantees, which provide peace of mind in case you encounter issues with the car down the road.

Financing Options Many dealerships offer financing solutions, making it easier for buyers to secure loans or monthly payment plans. This is particularly helpful if you're working within a specific budget.

Some of the popular dealerships in Epping include those offering well-known brands like Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford. Be sure to explore both new and used car sections to maximize your options.

Benefits of Buying Used Cars in Epping

If you're considering buying a used car, Epping is home to numerous trusted used car dealerships and private sellers. Here’s why buying a used car can be a great choice:

Affordability Used cars are generally much more affordable compared to brand-new models. You can often find high-quality, reliable cars with low mileage that fit your budget.

Slower Depreciation New cars tend to lose value quickly in the first few years of ownership. With a used car, most of that initial depreciation has already occurred, meaning your investment holds its value better over time.

Lower Insurance Premiums Used cars often come with lower insurance premiums, which can save you money in the long term.

When buying used cars in Epping, be sure to inspect the vehicle’s history, mileage, and overall condition. Ask for maintenance records and take the car for a test drive to ensure it meets your needs.

Things to Consider When Buying a Car

No matter if you’re buying new or used, there are a few key factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best deal possible:

Budget Before diving into the market, establish a clear budget. Factor in not just the car’s price but also registration, insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs.

Research Take the time to research different makes and models to find a car that suits your needs. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, comfort, or advanced tech features, understanding what you want in a vehicle will help narrow down your options.

Inspection and Test Drive Always inspect the car thoroughly before making any commitments. For used cars, consider hiring a mechanic to do a full inspection. A test drive is also crucial to ensure the car handles well and meets your comfort preferences.

Securing the Best Deal

Now that you've explored the available cars for sale in Epping, it’s time to secure the best deal. Here are some tips to help you negotiate:

Compare Prices Don’t settle for the first price you see. Visit multiple dealerships or check out different private sellers to compare prices for similar cars.

Leverage Promotions Many dealerships offer seasonal promotions or sales events where you can find discounted prices. Keep an eye out for these deals to maximize your savings.

Negotiate Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price, especially for used cars. Sellers are often willing to lower the price or throw in extras like free servicing or warranty extensions.

Conclusion

When it comes to cars for sale in Epping, there are plenty of options available for every budget and need. Whether you’re looking for a new car with the latest features or a reliable used vehicle, Epping’s car market has something to offer. Be sure to explore the local dealerships, compare your options, and negotiate wisely to secure the best deal possible. With the right approach, you’ll be driving away in your perfect car in no time!

[atplblog]

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[indian-suppliers]

Accelerator Cables: Important Component for Your Vehicle

When it comes to the smooth functioning of your vehicle, one component that often goes unnoticed but plays a critical role is the accelerator cable. This cable is the link between the accelerator pedal and the throttle, ensuring that your vehicle responds when you press the pedal, giving you the speed and control you need. Whether you drive a commercial truck, a personal car, or an industrial vehicle, the accelerator cable ensures that you can move smoothly, efficiently, and safely.

For drivers, mechanics, and manufacturers alike, understanding the importance of quality accelerator cables can save time, money, and hassle on the road. In this blog, we’ll discuss the role of accelerator cables, their applications across different vehicles, and why choosing the right supplier is essential.

What Exactly Is an Accelerator Cable?

An accelerator cable is a steel braided wire inside a protective casing that connects your vehicle’s accelerator pedal to the throttle body or carburetor. When you press the accelerator pedal, the cable pulls the throttle open, allowing more air and fuel into the engine, which increases your speed. The cable’s strength and smooth operation are key to ensuring a responsive and safe driving experience.

Accelerator cables are made to withstand significant wear and tear. They must handle frequent use, extreme weather conditions, and physical stress without snapping or losing their tension. This is why it’s crucial to choose cables made from high-quality materials that are built to last.

Where Are Accelerator Cables Used?

Accelerator cables are essential for a wide range of vehicles and machinery, and the applications extend beyond just cars. Below is a list of vehicles where these cables are commonly used:

Tata Ace/Magic/Dicor/XL

Leyland Dost/Bada Dost

Eicher Canter Jumbo/Terra The 16/10.90/10.95

Tata Ultra/Prima/1109/909/Signa/40.28/40.23

Maruti Wagon R/Alto/Alto 800/Swift/Baleno

Hyundai Santro/i-10/i-20/Santro

Mahindra Bolero/Maxx/Supro/Jeeto

These are just a few examples of the wide application of accelerator cables. From light commercial vehicles to passenger cars, these cables ensure that drivers can smoothly accelerate, maintain speed, and control their vehicle effectively.

Made to Last: Materials and Construction

The quality of an accelerator cable depends largely on the materials used and the attention to detail in its construction. At Chhattrapati Auto Store, based in Delhi, India, we manufacture accelerator cables from robust galvanized materials, which are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that the cable can handle not just everyday wear but also extreme conditions, whether it's rain, heat, or cold.

Our accelerator cables come with a grey spiral and black color finish, giving them a professional and sleek appearance. These cables can also be customized based on the specific needs of the customer. Whether you need cables for heavy trucks or small cars, we ensure that our products meet the exact specifications for length, strength, and flexibility.

Beyond Accelerator Cables: A Full Range of Control Cables

In addition to high-quality accelerator cables, Chhattrapati Auto Store also manufactures a wide variety of control cables used in various automotive applications. These include:

Clutch Cables

Parking Cables

Gear Shifter Cables

Stop Cables

Speedometer & Control Cables

Earthmovers Cables

Machine Cables

Lever Cables

Each of these cables plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of your vehicle. From clutch cables that help change gears to parking cables that secure your car when it's stationary, our products are built to the highest standards of quality and reliability. Like our accelerator cables, all of these are manufactured using strong materials and can be customized to meet your unique requirements.

Customization: Meeting Every Vehicle's Need

At Chhattrapati Auto Store, we understand that different vehicles have different needs. That's why we offer customization options for all our cables, including accelerator cables. Whether you’re dealing with a vintage car, a modern sports vehicle, or a heavy-duty commercial truck, we can tailor our products to fit your exact requirements.

We can adjust the length, diameter, and material composition of the cables to suit specific vehicle models. Need extra durability for off-road conditions or extreme climates? We can add extra layers of protection to ensure that your cable lasts longer and performs better under stress.

Why Quality Matters

Using a substandard accelerator cable can result in several problems. The most obvious one is a lack of responsiveness when you press the gas pedal. A faulty cable can cause the throttle to stick or fail to open entirely, leading to slow acceleration, sudden stops, or even total engine failure. In worst-case scenarios, a snapped cable could leave you stranded on the road, resulting in expensive repair costs and lost time.

By choosing a high-quality accelerator cable, you’re ensuring that your vehicle will run smoothly, respond quickly, and last longer without needing frequent replacements.

At Chhattrapati Auto Store, we are committed to providing durable and reliable products that stand the test of time. Our cables go through strict quality checks before they leave our factory, ensuring that you receive only the best products.

Shipping Across the Globe

Based in Delhi, India, Chhattrapati Auto Store is not just a local supplier—we ship our products worldwide. Whether you’re an individual looking for a replacement cable for your personal vehicle or a business needing bulk orders for a fleet, we’ve got you covered. Our streamlined logistics system ensures that our cables reach you promptly, no matter where you are.

At Chhattrapati Auto Store, we are a leading manufacturer of high-quality accelerator cables made from tough galvanized materials, designed to meet the demands of modern driving. And with our commitment to customization and global shipping, we’re able to serve customers worldwide with the exact cables they need. visit our website https://chttarpaticables.com/ or call us at +91- 9212745230 +91- 8178624337 today to learn more.

[lionessshychai]

Chapter 1: Fly to My Room

In the heart of Seoul, I rented a beautiful house from Air B&B, which seems like it once was a cozy traditional Korean family home, apart from the extensive collection of ceramics and paintings that make it feel more like a boutique gallery. To me, it feels like a warm hug. The bustling Meyongdong neighborhood boasts a spectacular view of the famous Namsan Tower and is walkable to a random hole-in-the-wall café I ate at last time with "world-famous Jajangmyeon."  I'm always sure to book my lodging near the local best in food wherever I stay being a self-proclaimed foodie, and there's nothing like a good bowl of Bibimbap on a rainy afternoon to give you the feels for this city. Seoul is the type of place that sings you a pretty song and then in the same breath, blows cigarette smoke in your face. You can't blame her, though, she's been through some shit.

I slept like the dead that first night. The bed feels like a nest for little me, with buttery-soft cotton sheets that smell faintly of tea tree. Heavenly. There's a big, walnut-colored rattan light fixture above the bed that emits beautiful little amber twinkles of light all over the room. Honestly, it's probably bought from Ikea, but I'm easily impressed by aesthetic.

 I feel good here. Seoul does have something about it.  A soul of its own and being here for the second time already feels better than the last, but I do tend to over-glorify shiny new things. I'm easily impressed. Maybe I'm just a sucker for romanticism and still look for art and beauty in everything, despite my strict work ethic and the forced realism I pour into every aspect of my life.

First things first this rainy Tuesday morning- introductions and the first team meeting with the CEO of BigHit Music Productions, Mr. Bang Si-hyuk, and his entourage.  I'm thrilled that this new contract includes a professional full-time translator, something that wasn't overseen by the good people at Hyundai, whom I worked with during my last trip.  They must have put too much faith in my skills. Needless to say, we spent most of our time using Google translate.  It was a mental drain, but they provided plenty of Soju and we all laughed our asses off waiting for that robotic voice to try to convey everything from emissions to emotions.  (It isn't good at either.)

I've only had a bag of "Nongshim Banana Kick'' crackers since the flight, so I decided to get a bite somewhere on the way to the train. I pulled on my black Burberry trench coat and pop open my umbrella.  It's a slick-back ponytail kind of day in this humidity. There isn't enough Moroccan oil in the world for the humid weather in South Korea. 

Pulling the door closed behind me, the hustle and bustle of the city is much apparent.  

A friendly face greets me on the sidewalk, an elderly man in a green bucket hat and rain slicker, whom I assume is the property manager here, fixing something on the front gate.

 I timidly blurt out my first official Korean words of the day.

 "joh-eun achim-ieyo", "good morning".  It sounded like I spoke through a mouthful of oatmeal.  Jesus, I'm off to a great start already. 

The man looked over at me with a slight hesitation on his face, but politely greeted me in return, introducing himself.

 "I'm Park Min-Jun, the owner." and it also seems like he asks me if I'm the guest for the next two weeks.

 I open Google, just in case, and prepare my response. 

 "eung, nae ileum-eun Maggie"- Yes my name is Maggie, and I bow. "naega geu jalileul jal dolbolge."- I'll take good care of the place.  

He bows in return and hands me the mail key from his pocket. He explains that I may receive packages here if I wish and to use box 433 at the end of the path. I thank him, bow, and continue down Myeongdong Street, a little sheepishly.

You think your accent sounds so good when you practice on Duo Lingo, but that little shithead owl won't critique you on the important stuff like how natural or awful your accent is. He will, however, jump up your ass you if you haven't opened the app for more than a day.

 “Lazy morning mouth," I say to myself, with a sigh.  “Caffeine.”

As I search Google maps for the nearest pit stop on my walking route to the train, my phone vibrates with an incoming text message.  It's Amy, my manager.

Hey in Seoul! Rob wants you to make sure that you read through your contract thoroughly and make sure it’s translated well enough for you not to get thrown under the bus on any time constraints. Chloe just came back from Hong Kong and the deal with Panasonic was terminated prematurely. They claimed breach of contract on her.  Something about a deadline which she knew nothing of.

Be careful. -Amy

Oof.  Sorry to hear that. I have my own translator this time, right? I think I’ll be good. I’m careful. Chloe didn’t even want that deal to begin with. Go figure.

I had a feeling. Just mind your manners.  You’ve been to Seoul before. You know it’s easy to get yourself dirty looks just for breathing wrong. 

It’s not as bad as you think, but yeah, I get what you mean. All good!

Good luck. -Amy

Amy gets nervous whenever Rob is pissed about something.  The trickle-down effect is real. I can’t blame her, but she does blow shit out of proportion all the time. 

I dropped by the first café I passed, a cute walk-up window beside a nail salon, and ordered a latte called an “Einspänner”, oddly enough. I had to Google that too. A German latte?  In Seoul? Apparently, it was hugely popular at this place, as suggested by the barista.

"It's the favorite," she told me. 

Who's favorite, I wonder. It’s actually damn delicious with vanilla cream foam on top that could have almost passed for ice cream.

After a few sips to energize me, I set out for the train stop to Yongsan with an earbud in one ear with some random podcast on social economics, and in the other ear, the busy town cacophony with a bouncing K-Pop song being pumped out of a very pink boutique. Pictures of various idols in all their glory beaming out from the racks outside, a girl dressed in a bandeau top, choker, and shorts with a glittery purple fringe skirt handing out flyers for what looks like a big spring sale. 

"hana gajyeoga chingu!"  Take one, friend! "It's a big sale today." 

 As she reaches out to hand me a flier and I nod to her, trying to grab the flier with both hands (in Korean culture, it's polite to receive anything anyone gives you with both hands.) I struggle, holding my latte and reach awkwardly toward the flier, giggling nervously and almost losing the damn latte in the process.  The shop girl holds both of her hands out in an attempt to stabilize anything I might drop and we both laugh hesitantly. 

"Gamsahabnida," thank you, I say.

We both bow and I glance past her at the rack of sparkling idol posters and photo cards.

  God, is everyone flawless in the world of K-Pop?, I thought to myself. Immaculate complexions, impeccable style. If they aren't 100% Photoshopped,  this makes me think about seriously upping my skincare routine. Now, I know a handful of K-pop songs just because Hana usually has them playing in the background at her place most of the time, but I couldn't name any of these beautiful faces staring back at me right now.

There’s one in particular who has purple hair.  He’s dressed in a white blazer, wearing small silver hoop earrings and a captivatingly gorgeous smile through full, glossy lips.  Oh, is he wearing contacts too? Blue or...purple? Wow. The dude legit seemed to be staring into very my fiber of being. Those eyes are absolutely killer. He's stunning.

 "Damn," I mutter under my breath. The skin on my arms prickled.  

My new shop bestie turned around to see what the hell I was ogling at and she went to pick up a few of the photocards for me to look at.  I laugh at myself, snapping out of my daze and it takes everything I have not to reach with both hands again. Instead, I clasp them together in a prayer-like plea around my coffee cup and take a few steps away.

"No, thank you. I...I appreciate it, though ''aniyo gwaenchanhseubnida..." She bows, and I bow.

  Flustered and per-usual clumsy, I lose my footing a little, but glance around and straighten up to find my bearings again, taking off for the train stop about 100 yards away. I felt the shop girl watching me for a few dozen yards. She's probably thinking I must have spiked my morning coffee.

As I find my seat on the train, my phone rings.  It's my translator, Ming-Hee. 

 "joh-eun achim-ieyo, Good morning, and welcome to Seoul, Maggie!  We look forward to your arrival.  The door code is 15338.  The East entrance with the big gold 'B' on the door. Check in with reception and I'll meet you on the 17th floor." 

 I quickly punch the code into my phone's keypad and return the greeting in first Korean, then English.

  "I'm on the train and will see you in about 20 minutes, Ming.  Thank you for the code!"  I politely replied.

"Yes, looking forward to your arrival," Ming replies flatly.  

 Settling in for the short ride, I thought of the K-Pop shop and something  Hana once said to me: "You gotta go find your 'bias' eventually." Apparently, 'Bias' is K-pop speak for your ultimate crush.  Girl’s crazy.  She always lectures me about how I put my work before everything else, even love... especially love. I've worked too hard for what's going on in my career to have some hype boy screw it up now.  I always tell Hana to lay off the K-Dramas. That stuff will give you high expectations, Delulu, and deep disappointment.

Hana will be pleased to know that on my first day back in Seoul, I coincidentally picked my first K-pop "bias", at least.   I have no idea what his name is or what group he's in, but he's got lilac purple hair and almost made me lose my Einspänner all over Meyongdong Street.

There are a few things that impress me about cityscapes, being how cold and lifeless they can seem to be, but there's an interesting non-linear quality to the skyline of Seoul. It's not uniform by any means.  Seoul appears mountainous from a distance. Most of the city is tucked and hugged by hills.  As the morning sun illuminates the landscape, a layer of fog envelopes a bridge stretching across the Han River, and flocks of white birds float and dive through the vapor. 

I reach my destination and it's a classic glass-paned cubed skyscraper with "BigHit" in big steel letters across the face of it. I make my way to the entrance with a gold 'B' as Ming-Hee instructed me and pull out my phone to punch in the door code. Success.

The foyer is wide open and sleek, well-lit, and modernly beautiful with lots of metal and wood accents, glass bubble chandeliers, and polished black marble floors. Walking toward the receiving desk, I spot two smartly dressed women chatting with coffee mugs in neatly manicured hands and the latest copy of Soompi magazine open to a page of a glossy spread of celebrity paparazzi photos. It looked to me as if they were fully engrossed in tea-spillage as they both looked up from the page to notice me, looking a bit annoyed. 

I greeted them both in Korean, bowed, and proceeded in English to explain who I was and that I had an appointment with their marketing team. I placed my Focus company badge on the marble surface of the countertop and smiled, hoping everything I said got across clearly. One woman in an indigo suit with long, sleek hair and sparkling blue crystal dangle earrings stepped in with confidence and appeared to understand what I was requesting. She smiled politely with a bow and took my I.D. to make a copy.

"Good morning, Miss Marsden, you're expected by Mr. Bang and his team on the 19th floor. Allow me to escort you. My name is Mina."  

 I bow again and reply gratefully, following her graceful heel clack to the elevators.  

Inside the elevator, there's some lofi jazz music playing softly and it feels like it's probably a chill rendition of a pop song.  It's like those ambient YouTube videos with the cute racoon in an orange hoodie and headphones that I usually put on in the background while I'm reading or studying.  

Mina turns to me and gives my outfit a lookover. Today, I put on a sleek, but not tight black pencil skirt, a soft cream Brochu cashmere sweater, and Versace slingback pumps complete with my favorite black Burberry trench, pearl and gold Elsa Peretti dangle earrings, and a slicked-back ponytail. Not bad, if I say so. If a Korean woman approves, I win today.  They don't fuck around with fashion in Seoul.

"Have you been having a good experience in Korea so far?" she asks.

  "It's been nice, so far. I just arrived last night and I'm excited to get to work on this project." I reply, somewhat formally.  Mina looks down at her feet, seemingly unenthused by my answer, and nods, turning a gold bracelet on her wrist that has a few charms dangling from it.

 "Your first time in Seoul?" She looks at me with a smile again and shifts her weight to the opposite foot.

 "No, it's my second time here, but it's good to be back again.  Seoul is a fascinating city." Mina nods again with arched eyebrows and a small laugh. 

"It is! I hope you enjoy your time here." As the elevator dings and opens to the 19th floor, Mina gestures for the opening and I step out. I catch her giving me a lookover as I exit and I smile politely as the doors of the elevator close behind me. 

I look left and right and see a woman standing near a water feature. She has short hair and gold-framed glasses dressed in a neat, black pantsuit holding a tablet in one hand and has a furrow in her brow.

 "Miss Marsden, I presume? I'm Ming-Hee and I'll be your assistant translator, also helping you with etiquette and such things while you're with us. I hope I can be helpful, and if you have any questions, please ask."  

Oh, my handler, I think to myself jokingly.  She seems tense and ready to get the show on the road. Ming-Hee gives the air of no-bullshit and all business sprinkled with some courtesy.

 I bow back and reply, "Thanks very much, may I call you Ming for short? 

"You may call me Ming or Mary, my Christian name.  Both are fine."  She replies shortly.

I nod to confirm.

Ming-hee smiles slightly and glances at the clock face over the elevator door.

 I didn't think I was running late. I wasn't supposed to be there for another ten minutes.

 Ming started down the hallway with a gesture to follow and picked up the pace as soon as I took a step.  Trailing Ming hurriedly, I notice my phone is vibrating inside my shoulder bag and take it out to see who's calling.  It's Hana.

Oh, shit, I think to myself.  I forgot she wanted me to call once I landed in Seoul, just to check in to hear that I landed safely, but I was so exhausted from the flight last night that I spaced out calling altogether.

Ming gives me a sideways glance, almost a warning that now isn't the best time to answer the call, so I quickly hit the ignore button and text a quick "I'm good, call you in about an hour... maybe." Send.

I think I must be vibing off of Ming's nervous energy and start to feel a little self-conscious, doubting myself.  A barrage of thoughts wash in like am I bringing to the table if not my charms and brainpower? I don't speak Korean, I'm still fairly fresh out of college and I just woke up in Seoul this morning, jet lag still hanging on tight. I suddenly think this may not be as chill as my last trip here dealing with the good people of Hyundai. I'm really letting this woman wreck my ego right now and I feel my heart pounding and breaths becoming quick.  Since middle school, I've had panic attacks and recently became friends with Zanny.  It's just been months since my last encounter with the anxiety demon. Why now?? 

Ming turns a corner and we're now standing in front of a couple of large double doors with burnished gold handles. I stop and think about the grounding exercises that my therapist taught me.  

Find five things around you to focus on. One thing you can see, something you can smell, one blue thing, one red thing, and something you can touch with your fingertips.

I look around quickly. I see various plants in gold urns, I can smell freshly brewed coffee, there's a long-tailed bluebird in an oil painting, and Ming's patent leather Dior bag is red. Finally, I touch the cashmere fringe on my sweater and roll it between my fingers. I take a deep breath and start to feel a little calmer. Breathe.

[abhiramiabii]

Car Rental in Kozhikode: Your Key to Exploring the Malabar Coast

 Kochi, a vibrant city nestled on the southwestern coast of India, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. To make the most of your visit, consider car rental in Kozhikode. Here's a guide to help you choose the right vehicle for your Kochi adventure:

Why Rent a Car in Kozhikode?

Flexibility and Convenience: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Kozhikode and its surroundings at your own pace. Visit off-the-beaten-path attractions, stop at scenic viewpoints, and create your own itinerary.

Accessibility: Many popular attractions in Kozhikode, such as the Beypore Beach, Kappad Beach, and the Tali Temple, are best explored by car. Renting a car gives you easy access to these destinations and allows you to avoid public transportation schedules.

Cost-Effective: Renting a car can be a cost-effective option, especially if you're traveling with a group or planning to visit multiple destinations.   

Convenience: A rental car provides a convenient way to travel between attractions, eliminating the need to rely on taxis or public transportation.

Types of Cars Available for Rent in Kozhikode

Economy Cars: For budget-conscious travelers, economy cars like Maruti Suzuki Alto or Hyundai Eon offer a practical and affordable option.

Mid-Size Cars: Mid-size cars like Toyota Corolla or Honda City are suitable for families or groups of friends. They offer a comfortable and spacious ride.

Compact SUVs: Compact SUVs like Maruti Suzuki Brezza or Hyundai Creta are ideal for those who prefer a higher driving position and additional space for luggage.

Luxury Cars: For a more luxurious experience, consider renting a luxury car like Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, or Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Tips for Renting a Car in Kozhikode

Research and Compare: Look for reputable car rental companies in Kozhikode and compare their prices, services, and customer reviews.

Book in Advance: To ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons, book your car rental well in advance.

Check for Insurance: Ensure the rental company provides adequate insurance coverage to protect you in case of accidents or damage.

Understand Local Traffic Rules: Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations to avoid any fines or penalties.

Consider Fuel Efficiency: If you plan on driving long distances, choose a fuel-efficient car to save on fuel costs.

By renting a car in Kozhikode, you can enhance your travel experience and explore this beautiful city at your own pace. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, a rental car is the perfect way to make the most of your visit to Kozhikode.