The article discusses the phenomenon of 'Insta-friendly' Sunday drivers in Hong Kong, highlighting their impact on local traffic and urban culture, and exploring how social media influences driving behaviors on weekends.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed Mike Flynn as the new Commissioner of the NYC Department of Transportation, emphasizing a focus on safer streets, faster buses, and transportation systems that support affordability and equity, leveraging Flynn's extensive experience in urban planning and transportation infrastructure.
The article highlights key data-driven discoveries from 2025 across various fields, including record low IRS audit rates, improved electric vehicle charging infrastructure, detailed analysis of legislation impacts, federal land control in Washington, and innovations in urban transit, illustrating how data points can reveal significant insights and trends.
Joby Aviation is acquiring Blade Air Mobility in a deal valued up to $125 million, expanding its urban air mobility infrastructure and passenger base, with Blade continuing operations as a subsidiary and the deal expected to close soon.
In late 1872, an epizootic, or horse flu, swept through North America, causing a significant disruption to urban life as horses fell ill and were unable to work. Cities struggled to deliver goods and transport people, with some resorting to human-powered alternatives. The epidemic, which started in Canada and spread south, affected not only working-class horses but also valuable ones, leading to debates about the replacement of horses with mechanical contrivances for urban transportation. The situation also highlighted issues of animal welfare and the treatment of working horses during the 19th century.
Honda has opened orders for its Motocompacto electric scooter in the US, priced at $995. The Motocompacto is a modern-day homage to the classic Honda Motocompo motorcycle from the 1980s and is designed for urban transportation and last-mile commuting. With a small powertrain and a top speed of 15 mph, it offers a range of up to 12 miles. The scooter features a folding design, on-board storage, a digital speedometer, and a phone app for personal settings. Orders can be placed online or at local Honda or Acura dealerships, with additional taxes and fees likely.
The Federal Aviation Administration has approved testing for Alef Automotive's flying car, called "Model A." It is the first fully electric vehicle that can both fly with vertical takeoff and drive on roads to receive U.S. government approval. The car has a driving range of 200 miles and a flight range of 110 miles, and it is available for pre-sale at $300,000. Alef Automotive plans to begin deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2025 and is also working on a four-person sedan called "Model Z" for future release.
Acer has announced the ebii e-bike, designed for cities with AI features that learn riders' preferences and change gears depending on road conditions. It weighs about 35 pounds, has a maximum assist speed of 20 MPH, and can go just under 70 miles on one charge. The bike has collision detection sensors, lights in every direction, and airless tires to avoid a flat. Acer hasn't specified the price or release date yet.