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Zum Celebrates Its Drivers Nationwide As Back-to-School Season Gets Underway

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Drivers in Fresno, Rockford and other cities share why they’re excited about the 2026–27 school year

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zūm, a leader in student mobility, is kicking off the 2026–27 school year by spotlighting its drivers across the country dedicated to delivering reliable, transparent and efficient service for students, families and schools.

“As students return to school, we are proud of our amazing teams of drivers who are helping provide access to education for children and peace of mind for families each day,” said Ritu Narayan, Founder and CEO of Zum. “Drivers are the heart of our operation and often the first smiling face a child sees. They understand the importance of their work and we believe ours have a positive influence on the students they serve.”

Zum supports more than 6,500 schools across 19 states. This year, Zum welcomed several new school district partners, including Fresno Unified School District (CA), School District of Philadelphia (PA), Shawnee Mission School District (KS) and Rockford Public Schools (IL).

A few Zum drivers share why they enjoy working with students and families:

“I drive special needs students: elementary, middle and high school. The parents are great; they need a lot of help, and we provide it with door-to-door service. The training was excellent, and I work with a monitor who has been doing this for about 10 years, so I’ve learned a lot from him. Everything’s been inspiring—and at the end of the day, you feel good about yourself, because you’re helping all these kids.”
— Zum driver Chester Herbert (Rockford, IL)

“I like the atmosphere of the job: the co-workers, the staff, the children, the overall experience of delivering the kids every day to school safely. I also like the responsibility of it. I’ve definitely gotten to know some of the kids and have been building little bonds with them. I like driving and being a good part of the community.”
— Zum driver Antoine Robinson (Oakland, CA)

“I raised five kids and have 14 grandkids, so I’m always surrounded by children. I like greeting the kids in the morning and talking to them: ‘What did you do last night?’ ‘What did you have for dinner?’ They’ll tell me about Grandma and Grandpa, or Mom and Dad … At Zum, there’s a bunch of drivers, and we’re all a team, helping each other. Everybody’s dedicated to doing their job the best they can.”
— Zum driver Grace Maher (Fresno, CA)

“My job is so fulfilling. My first ‘Oh, wow!’ was the technology; my tablet tells me exactly where to go. Also, the buses are very important: We have brand new buses, EV buses, buses that have AC. I am a people person, and to make (the students) feel good, I try to know every single kid by name. You make them feel valuable, like you care. Then we start having conversations, and they are at peace when they see me.”
— Zum driver Pascale Dalle (Oakland and Redwood City, CA)

“This is my first year driving a school bus. I have six kids at home, so now I’m home early enough to spend more time with them. In this job, you’re working with kids. You have to be patient. Even my wife was like, ‘Oh, that would be perfect for you.’ I love going to work and the people I work around, and I love being able to be home on the weekends with my family.”
— Zum driver Juan Santillan (Fresno, CA)

At Zum, drivers benefit from modern facilities, digital tools, real-time communication, and technology that simplifies daily operations, allowing them to focus on what matters most: serving students safely and reliably.

“Zum has a driver-first approach to student mobility, and our drivers understand the essential role they play in families’ lives,” said Liz Sanchez, Executive Vice President of Student Mobility at Zum. “In the weeks and months leading up to the start of the school year, our drivers have been busy training and preparing so they’ll be ready for the first day.”

Zum is helping school districts improve reliability, strengthen communication with families and modernize one of the nation’s largest public mobility systems through its AI-powered Connected Mobility Experience (CMX™) platform. To learn more about how Zum is redefining student mobility, visit www.ridezum.com.

About Zum

Zum is redefining mass mobility with Zum CMX, which connects and coordinates people, vehicles, and operations in real time. In the student mobility market, Zum is addressing a daily source of anxiety and disruption by providing a reliable, transparent, and efficient mobility experience for students and families. Learn more at www.ridezum.com. Today, more than 6,500 schools in 19 states have relied on the Zum CMX system.

Media Contact

Jenny Mayfield
VP, Communications, Zum
press@ridezum.com

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Hyundai Mobis Accelerates Electrification Push in Europe with Opening of New Plant in Slovakia

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– Annual capacity of up to 280,000 PE systems, the “heart of the EV,” in … Hyundai Mobis’ first PE system production base in Europe
Senior Slovak government officials, including Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in attendance, reaffirming strong ties and commitment to cooperation
– Third electrification plant in Europe… stronger regional supply capabilities and competitiveness backed by strategic model business wins

NOVÁKY, Slovakia, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Mobis (KRX 012330) has commenced full scale mass production of PE (Power Electric) systems, the “heart of the EV,” in Europe, stepping up efforts to expand its presence in the region’s electrification market. A PE system is an integrated electric powertrain unit comprising an electric motor, an inverter that converts electrical current, and a reduction gear. Following the production of battery system assemblies (BSAs) in the Czech Republic and Spain, the company will now mass produce and supply PE systems in Slovakia, establishing a strategic foothold to deepen its partnerships with global automakers as they transition toward future mobility.

Hyundai Mobis announced that it held a Grand Opening ceremony for its new PE system plant in Nováky, Slovakia, on 3rd (local time 2nd). Located in Nováky in Slovakia’s Trenčín Region, the new facility is Hyundai Mobis’ first PE system plant in Europe and its third electrification production base in the region, following its BSA production facilities in the Czech Republic and Spain.  

Hosted by Hyundai Mobis President and CEO Lee Gyu Suk, the event brought together approximately 100 attendees, including key Slovak government officials such as Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Denisa Saková, and Governor of the Trenčín Region Jaroslav Baška, as well as representatives from the European Commission, customers, major suppliers, and local media.

The new plant occupies a site of approximately 106,000 square meters, equivalent to roughly 15 football fields, and has a total floor area of 8,500 square meters. With production lines for stators, a core component of electric motors, as well as inverters and other components, the facility has annual production capacity of up to 280,000 PE systems. The company has invested a total of approximately KRW 250 billion to further enhance its production capabilities and ensure it is equipped to respond promptly to customer needs.

Speaking at the event, Hyundai Mobis President Lee Gyu Suk said, “To realize Hyundai Mobis’ future vision, we will continue to invest and devote our efforts to establishing the Nováky PE system plant as a key electrification hub in Europe. Looking ahead, strategic models from global automakers equipped with Hyundai Mobis PE systems will lead the European electrification market.”

The new Nováky plant is expected to serve as an integrated hub capable of supplying key electrification components to Hyundai Motor and Kia as well as global customers. Hyundai Mobis has developed its own core technologies and mass production capabilities across the full spectrum of EV components, including BSAs and PE systems. Building on these capabilities, the company operates electrification production bases at strategic locations across major regions worldwide, including Ulsan, Daegu, Chungju, and Pyeongtaek in Korea, as well as the United States, the Czech Republic, Spain, and Indonesia.

Hyundai Mobis is placing particular emphasis on establishing strategic bases and footholds in Europe, recognizing the growth potential of the region’s EV market, the second largest in the world after China. The establishment of an additional electrification plant in Slovakia, home to major global automakers including Kia, Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Volvo, is likewise a strategic move to strengthen the company’s competitiveness in winning electrification business from global customers and expand its presence in the market. Through initiatives such as its CEO Investor Day, the company has consistently communicated its goal of increasing the share of revenue from global customers to 40% by 2033 and continues to pursue strategic initiatives underpinned by its competitiveness in core technologies.

About Hyundai Mobis
Hyundai Mobis is the global no. 6 automotive supplier, headquartered in Seoul, Korea. Hyundai Mobis has outstanding expertise in sensors, sensor fusion in ECUs and software development for safety control. The company’s products also include various components for electrification, brakes, chassis and suspension, steering, airbags, lighting, and automotive electronics. Hyundai Mobis operates its R&D headquarters in Korea, with four technology centers in the United States, Germany, China, and India. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.mobis.com.

Media Contact
Choon Kee Hwang : ckhwang@mobis.com
Jihyun Han : jihyun.han@mobis.com

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SOURCE Hyundai Mobis

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KONE Indonesia Sets New Industry Benchmark as First to Achieve Platinum Green Product Certification

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KONE continues to lead the way in sustainable building solutions, supporting Indonesia’s transition towards greener urban development

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — KONE, a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, is proud to celebrate a significant milestone with the achievement of the Platinum Green Label in Indonesia, the highest rating awarded by Green Product Council Indonesia (GPCI). This recognition highlights the growing role of smart people flow solutions in supporting Indonesia’s journey towards more sustainable urban development.

The Platinum tier recognizes higher standards in circular economy practices, including the use of recycled materials and responsible end-of-life product management. While the certification marks an important milestone for KONE, it also reflects a broader transformation taking place across Indonesia’s built environment. Increasingly, developers, building owners and investors are seeking technologies that reduce energy consumption, minimise environmental impact and support long-term sustainability goals throughout a building’s lifecycle.

Commenting on the achievement Akhmadi Adiq, interim Managing Director, KONE Indonesia, said: “Indonesia’s rapid urbanization presents an opportunity to reshape how we design and construct the cities of the future. Sustainability now encompasses more than just the efficiency of building operations; it considers the entire lifecycle of a building, from design and construction to everyday use.

As the first and only elevator and escalator company in Indonesia to achieve this certification, KONE is proud to set a high standard for sustainable building technology. More importantly, this certification underscores our commitment to supporting customers in designing, modernizing, and operating smarter, greener, and more resilient buildings that contribute to a more sustainable urban future for Indonesia.”

As buildings account for a significant share of global energy consumption and carbon emissions, sustainability is no longer determined solely by construction materials or architectural design. Every system within a building contributes to its overall environmental performance, including the way people move through it. By delivering innovative people flow solutions that support energy efficiency and sustainability throughout a building’s lifecycle, KONE is determined to contribute further to Indonesia’s vision for greener and smarter cities.

Yudiono, GPCI Chairman, also shared: “The Platinum Green Product Certification recognises products that meet the highest standards of environmental performance under our latest certification framework representing a significant step forward for Indonesia’s green building ecosystem. By introducing criteria related to circular economy principles and lifecycle responsibility, the framework encourages manufacturers to think beyond operational efficiency and consider how their products contribute to sustainability throughout their lifespan. This is an important evolution for the industry as a whole.”

For more than three decades, KONE has combined global expertise with deep local knowledge to support Indonesia’s urban development, maintaining a nationwide presence and contributing to some of the country’s most prominent residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. KONE continues to work closely with developers, building owners and communities to help create smarter, greener, and more sustainable buildings for future generations.

About KONE

At KONE, our purpose is to shape the future of cities. As a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, we move two billion people every day, making their journeys safe, convenient, and reliable with smart and sustainable People Flow®. In 2025, KONE had annual sales of EUR 11.2 billion, and at the end of the year over 60,000 employees in close to 70 countries. KONE class B shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. in Finland.

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ugee Officially Launches Funbox: UL GREENGUARD Certified Kids’ 3D Printer Now Available in Singapore and Hong Kong.

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Where advanced home safety systems meet DIY creativity, making STEM learning worry-free for every family.

SINGAPORE and HONG KONG, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global digital creativity brand ugee today announced the official market availability of Funbox, its first desktop 3D printer designed specifically for children and beginners. Now shipping to customers in Singapore and Hong Kong, Funbox combines home-grade safety, one-tap operation, and AI-powered creative tools to turn abstract ideas into tangible 3D creations—making STEAM learning truly accessible, worry-free, and fun for families.

As demand for personal 3D printing and educational tech gadgets surges across Asia-Pacific, Funbox arrives as a timely solution for parents seeking high-quality, child-safe STEAM resources, and for gift buyers looking for innovative tech presents for children aged 6 to 12.

“As 3D printing evolves, there is robust market demand for safe, easy-to-use printers tailored for kids and beginners. Backed by UL certification, our printers provide comprehensive eco-friendly safety protection to put parents’ minds at ease. We aim to make 3D printing accessible to all, not just tech experts. We iterated products around safety, ease and fun: full one-tap operation from unboxing, streamlined workflows and kid-focused interfaces. AI fuels easy creation, making home toy printing simple and delightful. Most importantly, children build creative thinking and problem-solving skills through play, fully aligned with STEAM education,” said Amy Yuan, Global Brand Director of ugee.

Safety: Home-Grade Full-Spectrum Safety Protection Delivers Reliable In-home Usage

Marking an industry benchmark for home safety, Funbox features fully enclosed rounded-edge chassis paired with 12V low-voltage DC power supply complying with strict IEC safety norms to avoid electric shock risks. Equipped with exclusive H12 HEPA filter + activated carbon cotton dual air purification module, along with a 6010 large-sized active exhaust fan — the largest in its class.  It has earned UL GREENGUARD, ASTM F963-23, EN71 & EN62115 international toy safety standards, and the device efficiently traps ultrafine particles and unpleasant odors generated during printing. Different from open-structured rivals like Bambu Lab A1 Mini with exposed high-temperature nozzles and unfiltered exhaust, Funbox supports stable overnight printing inside closed carpeted rooms, eliminating parents’ core worries over indoor air pollution and accidental scalding. Real-time heating indicator alerts also remind users of hot nozzle status whenever replacing filaments or calibrating components for extra protection.

Ease of Use: Zero-Threshold Overall Design Lets Kids Operate Independently

In terms of usability, Funbox comes fully 100% pre-assembled right out of packaging with zero requirement for bed leveling, screw installation or complicated mechanical debugging. Adopting Wi-Fi 6 dual-band wireless connection and proprietary UFun mobile application, it delivers a peak print speed of 500mm/s and ultra-fine 0.05mm minimum layer precision. Three-tier hierarchical slicing modes covering Fast, Standard, and Fine satisfy diverse needs from preschool beginners to teen hobbyists. Built-in 2MP HD camera enables real-time remote monitoring and creative time-lapse shooting, while practical built-in functions including power-loss resume printing and filament jam auto-detection effectively reduce print failure rates and lower daily maintenance burden for both kids and guardians.

Fun & Creation: AI Powers Diversified Creation for Edutainment STEM Experience

Highlighting immersive creative fun and STEM education value, Funbox’s proprietary AI ShapeGen algorithm realizes three intelligent generation modes: voice description, text input and hand-doodle conversion, instantly turning kids’ casual sketches and random ideas into printable 3D models. The UFun App hosts a continuously updated rich resource library filled with toys, stationery, animal crafts and mechanical models, paired with serialized free online STEM tutorial courses that guide children to learn structural design and engineering logic during hands-on making. Unlike Toybox’s closed ecosystem locking users into overpriced proprietary filaments, Funbox fully supports all mainstream universal 1.75mm PLA materials to cut long-term household operating costs and maximize creative freedom.

Pricing & Availability

Funbox is now available for purchase through ugee’s official website, with shipping to Singapore and Hong Kong.

About ugee

A global creative hardware enterprise distributing products across 100+ nations, ugee focuses on digital art equipment and educational STEM tools, extending its layout from drawing tablets to household 3D printing to fuel children’s hands-on creativity.

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SOURCE UGEE TECHNOLOGY CO. LTD

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