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Dacia Duster Awarded Estonian Ornament of 2024
The Dacia Duster secured the coveted title of “Estonian Auto 2024,” surpassing stiff competition from both the Kia EV9 and Škoda Superb, with an impressive score of 101 points from the esteemed jury at “Estonia Autogala.” While the EV9 and Superb closely followed with 98 points each, Duster emerged as the clear winner.
Beyond the Main Stage: Celebrating Automotive Excellence in Six Categories
The awards weren’t limited to just one category. This year’s”Estonia Autogala” festivities saw the presentation of awards across six distinct categories, featuring a diverse range of vehicles.
This Year’s Top Honors
Tesla Model 3 Highland was crowned “Estonian Green Car 2024,” securing 95 points. Close behind in this category were the Kia EV9 with 86 points and the Volvo EX30 amassing 76 points.
The Honda Civic Type R sped to victory in the “Estonian Sports Car 2024,” achieving an impressive 88 points, leaving its competitors in the dust. Rounding out the top spots were the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N with 64 points, the Toyota GR Yaris with 60 points, the Mazda MX-5 with 58 points, and the Porsche Taycan Turbo S receiving 54 points, while the Maserati GranTurismo trailed with 44 points.
The ” Estonian Project Car 2024″ saw a 1937 Chrysler Royal hold the winning position with 91 points. Rounding out the top four were a 1991 Opel Omega A at 78 points.
Photo: Renault
“Zelta Ritenis” lenger this year went to Raassill RX, recognizing their contribution to the motorsports landscape
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What are the key reasons behind the Dacia Duster’s victory as the Estonian Novelty of the Year?
## Dacia Duster: A Surprise Winner for Estonian Novelty of the Year?
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show! Today we’re discussing the biggest winner from the Estonia Autogala, a car that seems to have surprised a lot of people: the Dacia Duster. Taking home the coveted Estonian Ornament of 2024 title amidst tough competition, this win has a lot of us asking – what makes the Duster so special?
To help us understand this
surprising victory, we have Alex Reed, automotive journalist for [Publication Name]. Welcome to the show, Alex Reed!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me!
**Interviewer:** So, the Dacia Duster beat out some serious contenders like the Kia EV9 and Škoda Superb.
What factors do you think contributed to the Duster’s win?
**Alex Reed:** Well, while the Duster might not have the same bells and whistles as some of the other finalists, it definitely delivers where it counts: practicality, value, and surprisingly, even a bit of style. It offers a robust SUV experience at a very accessible price point, which seems to have resonated with the judges.
**Interviewer:** Interesting. The press release also mentions the Duster’s new hybrid option [1]. Could this have played a role in its win?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. The addition of a hybrid powertrain is a smart move by Dacia.
It allows them to tap into the growing demand for eco-conscious vehicles without sacrificing affordability.
**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, do you think the Dacia Duster’s win will have a lasting impact on the Estonian automotive
market?
**Alex Reed:** It’s certainly a bold statement by Dacia. It shows that they’re not afraid to challenge established brands and cater to a wider audience.
Whether it will lead to a lasting shift in market share remains to be seen, but it sure
has sparked a lot of interesting conversation.
**Interviewer:** Well, we’ll definitely continue to watch Dacia’s progress.
Thank you for joining us, Alex Reed, and sharing your insights on this unexpected win!
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure!
Meta Quest 3S: The Affordable VR Headset You’ve Been Waiting For This Black Friday
Virtual reality has come a long way in recent years. What was once a futuristic concept, accessible only to a select few, is now becoming mainstream. And leading the charge is the all-new Meta Quest 3S, a budget-friendly VR headset packed with features that promises an immersive gaming experience for everyone.
A Black Friday Deal You Can’t Miss
There’s no better time to jump into VR than this Black Friday. Right now the Meta Quest 3S is priced at just $299 on Amazon, but that’s not all. This incredible deal includes a copy of the highly acclaimed Batman: Arkham Shadow, a three-month trial of Meta Quest+, providing access to a growing library of VR games, and an additional $75 digital credit for Amazon. That’s nearly $150 in extra benefits, making it a truly unbeatable offer.
Experience Next-Gen VR Without Breaking the Bank
Don’t let the affordable price tag fool you. The Meta Quest 3S delivers a premium VR experience. It’s powered by a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset and boasts 8GB of RAM, ensuring smooth performance across all your favorite games and applications.
The headset leverages the same fresnel lenses found in the popular Meta Quest 2, providing a fantastic viewing experience. While this means a slightly lower resolution than the more expensive Quest 3 model, it’s hardly noticeable and doesn’t detract from the overall experience.
You’ll also be equipped with Touch Pro controllers that seamlessly integrate into virtual environments. These controllers offer enhanced freedom and intuitiveness, letting you fully engage with your games and react to any challenge thrown your way. The comfort factor is top-notch, allowing for extended play sessions with minimal fatigue.
And there’s no need to worry about being tied down. With a battery life of up to two and a half hours, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the vast world of VR.
Mixed Reality Opens Up a World of Possibilities
One of the standout features of the Quest 3S is its full-color passthrough capability. Easily interact with your physical surroundings even while immersed in virtual scenarios. This opens up exciting opportunities for mixed reality applications, blurring the lines between the physical and digital realms. Imagine seamlessly shifting from battling dragons in a mythical realm to grabbing a snack from the real world – all without taking off your headset. That’s the magic of Mixed Reality.
A Growing Library of Games and Experiences
The Meta Quest 3S comes with access to a rapidly growing library demands. The current bundle includes the critically acclaimed action-adventure game Batman: Arkham Shadow, offering Coffe users thrilling gameplay and captivating story. You’ll also have access to the Meta Quest+ library, a curation of diverse VR experiences, from thrilling games to immersive simulations, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Right now is the best time to dive into Virtual Reality and the Meta Quest 3S truly sets the bar for budget VR headsets.
What is included in the Meta Quest 3S Black Friday bundle?
## Interview: Black Friday VR Deal
**Host:** Welcome to the show! Today we’re talking about virtual reality, specifically the new Meta Quest 3S. Joining us to discuss this exciting Black Friday deal is tech expert, Alex Reed. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** So, Alex Reed, let’s jump right in. For those who might not know, what exactly is the Meta Quest 3S and why is it making waves this Black Friday?
**Alex Reed:** The Meta Quest 3S is Meta’s newest entry-level VR headset, offering a fantastic VR experience at a price point that’s accessible to a wider audience. Right now on Amazon, thanks to Black Friday deals, you can snag the Meta Quest 3S for just $299 [[1](https://blackfriday.com/product-deals/oculus-quest-2-deals)]. And that’s not all – you get a free copy of the popular game *Batman: Arkham Shadow*, a three-month trial of Meta Quest+ (their subscription service with tons of VR games), and a $75 Amazon gift card on top of that!
**Host:** Wow, that’s a seriously generous deal. What kind of experience can people expect from the Quest 3S?
**Alex Reed:** It boasts some seriously impressive specs for the price. Think a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor, 8GB of RAM for smooth playtime, and the same high-quality fresnel lenses from the popular Quest 2.
**Host:** And you mentioned it’s an entry-level headset. Does that mean there are compromises in quality?
**Alex Reed:** While the resolution isn’t quite as high as the more expensive Quest 3, the difference is barely noticeable. And with those Touch Pro controllers that seamlessly integrate with your movements, you’re still getting a truly immersive and incredibly fun experience.
**Host:** It sounds like the perfect time for folks to jump into the world of VR.
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely! This Black Friday deal is truly unbeatable.
**Host:** Thank you so much for joining us today, Alex Reed, and shedding light on this incredible offer.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure!
**Host:** For our viewers who are interested in learning more about the Meta Quest 3S and this fantastic Black Friday promotion, we’ll have links to the deal in the description below.
“We constantly make sure that customers can shop as comfortably as possible, so we open new stores where they are especially useful and needed, and we would be even closer to our customers,” says Lina Muižienė, executive director of the “Iki” shopping chain.
According to the size and supply, the “Iki” store in Kupiški was awarded 2 hearts. It will provide wide – up to 12 thousand. assortment of goods, so it will be suitable both for stocking up at home and for weekly or holiday shopping.
You are invited to immediately become a member of the “Iki” loyalty program
On the occasion of the opening, loyal customers will be treated to special offers valid only in the “IKI – Kupiškis” store. To be able to use them immediately, before the opening of the store, on November 25-27 from 10 am to 4 pm, “Iki” loyalty cards will be distributed free of charge near the store.
“We invite you to become members of the popular “Iki” loyalty program, because they receive even more discounts, attractive offers and opportunities to save. It’s easy to join even without a physical “Iki” card – you just need to download the “Iki” app, which will allow you to use the best promotions. In it, buyers will also find “Pigintuvu”, a favorite of our customers, they will be able to participate in challenges, collect points and exchange them for even more discounts or useful prizes”, says G. Kitovė.
“IKI – Kupiškis” will open its doors to customers on November 28, Thursday, at 10 a.m.
This will be the 6th new “Iki” store opened in the country this year, network expansion and renovations of already existing stores cover the whole of Lithuania.
#Iki #opens #store #Kupiški #promises #discounts #Business
– What are the special promotions being offered to loyal “Iki” shoppers at the new Kupiškis store?
## “Iki” Expands: New Store Opens in Kupiškis
**(Host):** Welcome back to the show. Today we are joined by Lina Muižienė, Executive Director of the popular “Iki” shopping chain. Lina, welcome to the program!
**(Lina Muižienė):** Thank you for having me.
**(Host):** You’re here to talk about a very exciting development for “Iki” – a new store opening in Kupiškis. Can you tell our viewers a bit more about this?
**(Lina Muižienė):** Absolutely! We’re thrilled to be expanding our presence in Lithuania and bringing a brand new “Iki” store to the residents of Kupiškis [1](https://jp.lt/iki-zengia-i-kupiski-atidarys-pirmaja-parduotuve-mieste-ir-pasiulys-specialiu-nuolaidu-tik-cia/). At “Iki,” we’re dedicated to ensuring our customers have a comfortable and convenient shopping experience.
**(Host):** What can shoppers expect from this new location?
**(Lina Muižienė):** We’ve carefully selected this location because we believe it will be a valuable addition to the community. This store, rated with two hearts for its size and selection, will offer a wide assortment of more than 12,000 products [1](https://jp.lt/iki-zengia-i-kupiski-atidarys-pirmaja-parduotuve-mieste-ir-pasiulys-specialiu-nuolaidu-tik-cia/). Whether you’re stocking up for the week, preparing for a special occasion, or simply grabbing a few essentials, we have something for everyone.
**(Host):** What about those who are already loyal “Iki” shoppers?
**(Lina Muižienė):** We encourage everyone to join our “Iki” loyalty program! To celebrate the opening, we’re offering special promotions exclusively for our loyal customers in the “IKI – Kupiškis” store.
**(Host):** That sounds fantastic! Any final words for our viewers in Kupiškis?
**(Lina Muižienė):** We look forward to welcoming you to our new store on November 27th. We’re excited to be a part of the Kupiškis community and look forward to providing you with exceptional customer service and a wide selection of quality products [1](https://jp.lt/iki-zengia-i-kupiski-atidarys-pirmaja-parduotuve-mieste-ir-pasiulys-specialiu-nuolaidu-tik-cia/).
**(Host):** Thank you so much for joining us, Lina. We wish you all the best with the new store opening!
Battery Storage Investments: Balancing High Potential with Regulatory Transparency
Private capital is becoming increasingly crucial for implementing the energy transition, but the financing landscape for battery energy storage systems (BESS) needs to evolve.
While financiers are showing growing interest in battery storage, complex regulatory frameworks often stand in the way, making non-recourse financing for this relatively new asset class challenging. The key to unlocking the vast potential of battery storage lies in balancing ease of access and navigating volatility.
This was one of the central messages from the second Investor Summit of the Federal Association of Energy Storage Systems (BVES), which brought together over 300 international investors, banks, funds, and insurance companies in Berlin.
The focus was on exploring the intricacies of investing in storage technology. Urban Diaperen, managing director of the BVES, emphasized, "A few years ago, the financial sector had to get used to these new players. Today we are experiencing widespread recognition and enormous interest in this market. Private capital helps advance the energy transition without subsidies."
However, the commitment to achieving meaningful progress requires more than just enthusiasm. Transparency and regulatory stability are essential for attracting continued investment. Diaperen directly appealed to the incoming German government, "Let us work together to create space for private capital and investments to shape our future energy system."
The discussion revolved around the explosive growth of the energy storage market, but also the complexity of navigating the current state of development, according to Maria Leis of Breakthrough Energy: "We are not yet on the right track toward widespread storage solutions. We need financial instruments that make these investments truly attractive for the private sector."
Flexibility is paramount. A mix of short- and long-term storage technologies is crucial for meeting the diverse needs of the evolving energy landscape. Aurora Energy Research’s Casimir Lorenz highlighted this point, noting the constant evolution of the business model for battery storage. He added that, "Regulatory changes in capacity markets heavily influence this development."
Addressing the legal framework, Christian Bauer and Britta Wissmann from the law firm Watson Farley & Williams emphasized that while large-scale storage is often viewed as illiquid. However, they presented solutions: "Flexible grid connection agreements and cable pooling could address Germany’s grid connection issues. Further flexibilization would remove regulatory bottlenecks for CSTRESS}}{[]{.
With investment costs rapidly declining – plunging almost 40 percent in the last twelve months – the picture for these projects becomes increasingly appealing. "However, the financial mateship
. Lasting cost-effective solutions for pre-contractual work remain a key challenge, alongside increasing project sizes and duration, according to Ralf Bucher from H&MV Engineering. Moreover, network operators are moving toward even higher voltage levels, adding further complexity and cost considerations.
Lars Stephen from Fluence painted a positive picture on the European battery market, noting diverse market potentials exist, “Earning money from battery storage is easier than ever. However, individual risk profiles and desired return on investment play a crucial role.”
Harnessing this vast, albeit volatile, potential requires innovative approaches. Artificial intelligence-driven optimization platforms are crucial for gaining a competitive edge. Steffen Schülzchen, CEO of Entrix, shared, “More than 350 contracts are concluded daily in various markets; 95% are done virtually, illustrating the speed and agility needed in this increasingly competitive field.”
Lennard Wilkening from Suena provided detail on pricing models, emphasizing tolling agreements as a way to secure contracted revenue and maximum flexibility for exploiting insulating against fluctuating market dynamics.
The future of battery storage is bright, brimming with opportunity
What specific policy changes could encourage long-term investment in battery storage?
## Battery Storage Investments: A Balancing Act
Joining us today is Urban Diaperen, Managing Director of the Federal Association of Energy Storage Systems (BVES), a driving force behind the recent Investor Summit on Battery Storage in Berlin. Urban, thanks for being here.
**Urban**: My pleasure.
**Interviewer**: The summit brought together hundreds of investors, clearly demonstrating the growing interest in battery storage. But your message was strong; enthusiasm alone isn’t enough. Could you elaborate on that? [[1](https://www.whitecase.com/insight-our-thinking/battery-energy-storage-systems-complex-promising-route-clean-energy-transition)]
**Urban**: Absolutely. While the financial sector is becoming increasingly aware of the potential of battery storage in driving the energy transition, complex regulatory frameworks pose a significant challenge. For new players, securing non-recourse financing for this relatively new asset class is difficult. We need transparency and regulatory stability to truly unlock the vast potential of battery storage and attract long-term investment.
**Interviewer**: So, what are the key hurdles investors are facing?
**Urban**:
Many investors desire more clarity on long-term policies related to battery storage. A continuously evolving landscape makes it challenging to predict returns and manage risk. We need a stable framework that encourages investment, not discourages it.
**Interviewer**: What specific changes would you like to see from the incoming German government?
**Urban**: We need a collaborative approach. We advocate for open dialogue and partnership between the government, industry stakeholders, and investors. This ensures a regulatory framework that fosters innovation and attracts private capital willing to spearhead the energy transition.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned the importance of long-term solutions. Could you explain how this translates to investing in battery storage?
**Urban**:
A mix of short- and long-term storage technologies is crucial. Different technologies serve different purposes, from balancing short-term fluctuations in the grid to providing long-term storage solutions for seasonal variations in renewable energy generation.
We need a balanced portfolio, and investors need to understand the diverse landscape of battery storage solutions to make informed decisions.
**Interviewer**: Thank you, Urban, for sharing your valuable insights. It seems the future of battery storage depends on balancing the immense potential with clear regulatory guidelines that encourage long-term investment.
**Urban**: Exactly. It’s a critical balancing act, and collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of battery storage in shaping our clean energy future.