Solar impulse takes off from Switzerland to Morocco

The Solar Impulse project, led by Swiss pioneers Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg, aimed to demonstrate the potential of renewable energy in aviation. The aircraft, named Solar Impulse 2, is powered entirely by solar energy, with over 17,000 solar cells embedded in its wings. These cells charge four lithium polymer batteries, allowing the plane to fly both day and night without any fuel. The aircraft’s wingspan is comparable to that of a Boeing 747, yet it weighs only about as much as a car, highlighting the innovative design and engineering behind this project.

The intercontinental flight from Switzerland to Morocco was a significant milestone for the Solar Impulse team. The journey began in Payerne, Switzerland, and included a planned stopover in Madrid, Spain, for a pilot change and technical checks. This flight covered over 2,500 kilometers and was a testament to the aircraft’s capabilities and the potential of solar energy in aviation. The successful completion of this flight demonstrated that long-distance travel using renewable energy is not only possible but also practical.

This achievement was not just a technical feat but also a powerful statement about the future of sustainable aviation. By flying from Europe to Africa without using any fossil fuels, the Solar Impulse team showcased the possibilities of clean energy and its applications in reducing our carbon footprint. The project has inspired further research and development in the field of renewable energy and has highlighted the importance of innovation in addressing global environmental challenges. The Solar Impulse’s journey continues to be a symbol of hope and progress in the quest for a more sustainable future.

Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs by Carmine Gallo

The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs by Carmine Gallo is a highly regarded book that explores the art of delivering powerful and memorable presentations, drawing from the techniques used by Steve Jobs himself. Gallo, a seasoned communications coach and BusinessWeek columnist, meticulously analyzes Jobs' presentations, identifying the key elements that made them stand out and resonate with audiences around the world.

At the heart of the book is a practical framework that anyone can use to elevate their presentation skills. This framework revolves around a few core principles that Jobs consistently employed:

Develop a clear and compelling message: Steve Jobs was a master at distilling complex ideas into simple, clear messages. Gallo emphasizes the importance of having a central message that is both compelling and easy to understand. This message serves as the backbone of the presentation, guiding every slide and every word.

Use storytelling to engage the audience: Jobs knew that facts and figures alone don't move people—stories do. Gallo explains how Jobs used storytelling to connect with his audience on an emotional level, making his presentations not just informative but also memorable. By weaving narratives into his talks, Jobs was able to humanize his products and ideas, making them more relatable and inspiring.

Create visually appealing slides: Unlike many presenters who overload their slides with text, Jobs was known for his minimalist, visually striking slides. Gallo discusses how to create slides that complement your message rather than detract from it. The focus is on simplicity, clarity, and the strategic use of visuals to reinforce the spoken word.

Practice extensively to ensure a smooth delivery: Behind Steve Jobs' seemingly effortless presentations was extensive practice. Gallo stresses the importance of rehearsing to the point where the delivery appears natural and confident. This level of preparation allows the presenter to focus on connecting with the audience, rather than worrying about the technicalities of the presentation.

These techniques, as highlighted in Gallo's book, have been emulated by many successful leaders across various fields. By adopting these strategies, anyone can enhance their public speaking skills and deliver presentations that are not only informative but also inspiring and impactful.

Renault Twizy, the new revolutionary electric car

Renault Twizy will clearly appeal to busy, carowning city dwellers looking for a second vehicle, as well as to younger drivers interested in a safe way to gain experience in traffic thanks to the availability of a version that will not require a driver's licence (depending on country).

Although its compact dimensions are likely to prompt comparisons with the world of scooters, Renault Twizy delivers all the fundamentals associated with any car, namely four wheels, a steering wheel and pedals, plus an enveloping body for two occupants sitting in tandem, one behind the other.

Renault Twizy combines real character with a resolutely modern design that boasts sweeping lines, open bodywork, original gull wing doors and a full windscreen which extends over the top of the car to form a large glazed area, not to mention the model's original lighting signature.