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  • Acebeam Launches LEP Flashlight with 1,400 Meters Range

    Acebeam Launches LEP Flashlight with 1,400 Meters Range

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Acebeam W10 Pro is the latest model in the W10 series, labeled as v2, and should not be confused with earlier versions.
    2. It uses LEP (Laser Excited Phosphor) technology, offering high candela ratings (507,656 cd) but lower lumen output (750 lumens), making it less suitable for close-range lighting.
    3. The flashlight measures 15 cm in length, weighs 211 grams, and features a rechargeable 21700 battery accessed via a USB-C port.
    4. The W10 Pro has a runtime of 4 minutes at maximum output, followed by 3.5 hours at 350 lumens, and is designed with IP68 water resistance and drop protection from 1.5 meters.
    5. The retail price for the W10 Pro is $229, reflecting its premium positioning in the market.

    Acebeam has recently introduced the W10 Pro, which is the next version of the W10 series. It’s important to note that this model is labeled as v2 and should not be mixed up with the previous W10 or W10 Gen II versions.

    Technology and Performance

    As expected, this new flashlight employs LEP (Laser Excited Phosphor) technology. Often referred to as laser flashlights, it’s important to clarify that they don’t use lasers in the traditional way. This technology is known for its strong focus, providing an extended reach. The candela ratings are impressively high, while the lumen outputs are quite low. For the W10 Pro, the peak output is 750 lumens and 507,656 cd, as indicated in the specifications. Therefore, the WP10 Pro is not ideal for close-range lighting tasks.

    Design and Features

    The flashlight measures around 15 cm in length and has a weight of 211 grams. Its internal battery is rechargeable directly through a USB-C port. This battery is a replaceable 21700 round type, which significantly influences the flashlight’s design, boasting a diameter of about 2.5 cm.

    The W10 Pro has a runtime of 4 minutes when used at the maximum 750-lumen setting, followed by a lower output of 350 lumens lasting for 3.5 hours. It features IP68 water resistance and can withstand drops from a height of 1.5 meters, adding to its durability.

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  • Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 with Matter Coming Soon

    Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 with Matter Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Govee will soon launch the Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 in the US, identified as model H7056.
    2. The new lights feature two distinct light sources: an upward-facing domed light and lower lights for ground illumination.
    3. They include smart lighting capabilities, offering various effects through the Govee Home app and support for Matter 1.3.
    4. The Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 are designed for improved weather resistance and secure ground anchoring.
    5. The expected launch date is August 20th, but pricing has not yet been revealed.

    Govee is set to introduce the Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 in the United States soon. These innovative lights were showcased at CES 2025 and have already been trialed by several Govee users. The new model, identified as H7056, is a redesign of the earlier Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights (model H7055), featuring a fresh look.

    Design Features

    The Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 are designed with two distinct light sources. There’s a domed light that faces upwards, measuring approximately 5 inches (~127 mm) in diameter, and additional lower lights that illuminate the ground below. The light fixture is mounted on a plastic pole that stands about 12.5 inches (~318 mm) tall. Additionally, these wired lights are anchored into the ground with a stake, ensuring they remain securely in place.

    Smart Lighting Capabilities

    According to Govee, these smart lights are capable of delivering both functional and decorative lighting across a broad area. Users will have access to a variety of dynamic smart lighting effects via the Govee Home app. Furthermore, the lights can also be managed through various smart home applications, thanks to the inclusion of Matter 1.3 support. Moreover, the new model boasts improved weather resistance.

    Availability and Pricing

    Govee has announced a set of four Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 on its Coming Soon page in the US, with an expected launch date of August 20th. However, the pricing for this new smart lighting solution has not yet been disclosed. For comparison, the original Outdoor Pathway Lights were priced at $169.99. It is still uncertain if and when these lights will become available in Europe.

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    Govee Outdoor Pathway Lights 2 with Matter Coming Soon

     

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  • Envision Launches Highly Efficient Two-Blade Wind Turbine

    Envision Launches Highly Efficient Two-Blade Wind Turbine

    Key Takeaways

    1. The energy shift demands ongoing innovation for improved efficiency, leading to lower costs and better performance in renewable technologies.
    2. Envision’s two-blade onshore wind turbine achieved a 99.3% availability rate and a mean time between trips of 2,444 hours after 500 days of testing.
    3. The turbine features a modular design and high-speed DFIG technology, overcoming technical challenges like high system vibration and load imbalance.
    4. Details on the turbine’s generation capacity remain undisclosed, but Envision is considering ramping up production for commercial deployment.
    5. Two-blade turbine designs require less material, potentially reducing manufacturing and installation costs, with modular deployment being a key advantage.

    The energy shift has created a continuous need for innovation to improve efficiency. This has pushed technology boundaries, leading to lower costs and better performance, like increased energy density. Recently, the Chinese firm Envision has unveiled its two-blade onshore wind turbine, which has been under wraps for 500 days of testing.

    Technical Challenges Overcome

    According to Envision, reaching this milestone involved tackling several technical issues. After 500 days of reliable operation, the company reported impressive outcomes, such as a 99.3% availability rate, a mean time between trips (MTBT) of 2,444 hours, and 3,048 equivalent full-load hours each year. “Field performance shows that our two-blade turbine matches the performance of traditional three-blade ones at the same site,” the company stated in a press release.

    Details About the Turbine Model

    The turbine belongs to the Model X onshore series, boasting a modular design and high-speed DFIG (Doubly-Fed Induction Generator) technology that enhances stability. Lou Yimin, Senior Vice President and Chief Product Officer at Envision, noted that significant challenges for this model included high system vibration and load imbalance, which the team managed to resolve. The company has been developing a two-blade wind turbine since 2012, paving the way for this groundbreaking achievement.

    Future Plans and Manufacturing Capacity

    However, some specifics, like the turbine’s generation capacity, were not disclosed, and it remains uncertain whether the company intends to ramp up production for this model. Nevertheless, Envision hinted at this possibility, stating that “all parameters were systematically planned, tested, and validated to ensure technological maturity and readiness for commercial deployment.”

    Many companies have attempted and some have experimented with two-blade turbines. The significance of this development lies in the fact that these designs require substantially less material, potentially lowering manufacturing and installation expenses due to having fewer parts to handle. Envision emphasized that modular deployment is one of its key advantages.

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  • Eye Drops Offer New Hope for Millions Needing Reading Glasses

    Eye Drops Offer New Hope for Millions Needing Reading Glasses

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of Vizz Eye Drops: Vizz eye drops by Lenz Therapeutics are a new FDA-approved treatment for presbyopia, using aceclidine to improve near vision.

    2. Longer Duration of Effect: Vizz drops start working in about 30 minutes and last up to 10 hours, offering a longer effect compared to similar products like Vuity.

    3. Clinical Trial Success: FDA approval was based on three Phase III trials with over 680 participants, showing significant improvement in near vision and good tolerability.

    4. Target Demographic: Vizz is most effective for individuals aged 45 to 55 in the early stages of presbyopia, but effectiveness decreases in dim lighting.

    5. Market Launch and Pricing: Initial samples will be available to doctors in October 2025, with a full market launch expected by the end of that year; pricing will likely be similar to Vuity, which costs around $100 monthly.

    Presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness, impacts almost everyone starting in their mid-40s, though it can actually begin earlier for some. Traditionally, people have depended on reading glasses or contact lenses, while others have chosen surgical options. Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the green light for a new alternative treatment.

    A New Hope: Vizz Eye Drops

    With the introduction of Vizz eye drops by Lenz Therapeutics, many could find relief from needing reading glasses. These drops contain aceclidine as their active ingredient, which works by narrowing the pupil to create a pinhole effect, making vision clearer. The company states that the drops begin to work in about 30 minutes and can last for up to 10 hours, which is much longer compared to similar products like Vuity from AbbVie/Allergan, which normally last about 4 to 6 hours. One of Vizz’s key benefits is that, unlike Vuity, it doesn’t affect distance vision.

    Clinical Trials and Tolerability

    The FDA’s approval was founded on three Phase III trials that included over 680 participants and more than 30,000 treatment days. Results from the CLARITY-1 and CLARITY-2 studies showed a significant improvement in near vision, and the long-term CLARITY-3 trial demonstrated good tolerability over a six-month period. The most frequent side effects were mild and temporary, such as eye irritation, decreased vision in low-light situations, headaches, and redness.

    Effectiveness and Market Launch

    There is no exact guideline on the diopter range where Vizz is most beneficial. An ophthalmologist on Reddit mentioned that these drops tend to be most effective in the early stages of presbyopia, usually for individuals aged 45 to 55. They also indicated that the effect is reduced in dim lighting, as pupils remain constricted.

    Results from the studies suggest that Vizz could help many avoid wearing glasses. In the US, initial samples are set to be distributed to doctors in October 2025, with a market launch anticipated by the end of that year. A timeline for Europe remains unclear, where the product will be sold through partner Théa. However, cost may present a challenge: Vuity, which is currently only available in the US, costs as much as $100 monthly and is not insured, and similar pricing is expected for Vizz.

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  • BenQ W4100i 4K Projector Upgrade Now Available

    BenQ W4100i 4K Projector Upgrade Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BenQ W4100i Home Cinema Projector features a broader horizontal frequency range and improved vertical scan rate, enhancing performance for gaming and movie viewing.
    2. Input lag is reduced to 6.5 ms for 1080P at 240Hz and 17.9 ms for 4K at 60Hz, making it suitable for gamers.
    3. The projector offers a high contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1 and new picture modes like HDR AI Cinema for better image quality.
    4. It includes a 4LED light source with 3,200 ANSI lumens brightness, supports Dolby Atmos, and has connectivity options like Apple AirPlay and Google Cast.
    5. The BenQ W4100i is priced at $2,999 in the US and is available for pre-order, with similar pricing in the UK and other European countries.

    BenQ has launched its W4100i Home Cinema Projector around the globe. This latest version was first introduced in Europe this year, coming as an improved model to the 2023 W4000i, boasting several enhancements.

    New Features

    Some of the upgrades in the BenQ W4100i are a broader horizontal frequency range from 15 to 270 kHz, along with a vertical scan rate that reaches up to 240 Hz. The input lag has been decreased to 6.5 ms for 1080P at 240Hz and 17.9 ms for gaming at 4K at 60Hz. It also includes an additional HDMI port. Furthermore, it features a greater FOFO contrast ratio of 3,000,000:1, and introduces new picture modes like HDR AI Cinema.

    Specifications and Performance

    The W4100i utilizes a 4LED light source that offers brightness of up to 3,200 ANSI lumens. This 4K UHD DLP projector provides a throw ratio between 1.15 and 1.50, with a zoom capability of 1.3x. BenQ claims that it covers the entire DCI-P3 and Rec. 709 color gamuts, and includes image-enhancing tools such as 2D Keystone and four-way lens shift. Other features consist of a 5W speaker, compatibility with Dolby Atmos, an Android TV dongle, as well as support for Apple AirPlay and Google Cast. The dimensions of this model are 420.5 x 135.3 x 312.1 mm (approximately 16.6 x 5.3 x 12.3 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The BenQ W4100i Home Cinema Projector is currently available in the United States for $2,999 at B&H Photo Video. It can also be pre-ordered for the same price on Amazon, with a release scheduled for September 1st. In the UK, retailers such as Richer Sounds offer the projector for £2,999. In other European nations, like the Netherlands, the price is set at €2,999.

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    BenQ W4100i 4K Projector Upgrade Now Available

     

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  • New Xiaomi Smart Mini Washer Dryer Now Available

    New Xiaomi Smart Mini Washer Dryer Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Mini Washer and Dryer 1.2kg has a washing capacity of 1.2 kg (~2.6 lbs), suitable for small loads like yoga pants or pajamas.
    2. It features a quick wash option of 15 minutes and can automatically dispense preloaded detergent, while reaching a sterilization temperature of 95°C (~203°F) with a 99.99% sterilization rate.
    3. The drying capacity is 0.5 kg (~1.1 lbs), with a quick wash and dry setting that takes 45 minutes, and options for low-temperature drying to protect delicate fabrics.
    4. Users can control the washer dryer remotely through Xiaomi’s app, which also provides OTA updates, and it is designed to fit on a countertop (328 x 452 x 461 mm).
    5. The product is currently available in China for CNY 1,999 (~$278) but is not expected to be released in Europe.

    The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Mini Washer and Dryer 1.2kg has just been launched in China. It’s a bigger version of the Mijia Washing Machine Mini Washer and Dryer 1kg which came out in this market in 2024.

    Features and Specifications

    The new Mijia Washing Machine Mini Washer and Dryer 1.2kg boasts a washing capacity of 1.2 kg (~2.6 lbs). This means it can handle a pair of yoga pants or pajamas, or several pairs of underwear. It includes a quick wash option that lasts 15 minutes and uses a pre-mixed spray to save water. The machine can also preload detergent and dispense it automatically when needed. Furthermore, it can reach a maximum temperature of 95°C (~203°F), achieving a sterilization rate of 99.99%.

    Drying Capabilities

    Just like the smaller model, Xiaomi’s Mijia Mini Washer and Dryer features a drying capacity of 0.5 kg (~1.1 lbs). The device has a quick wash and dry setting that takes 45 minutes and offers low temperature choices to safeguard delicate fabrics. Additionally, if you wash your clothes at night, the air vent opens on its own to keep your laundry fresh until morning. Users can control the washer dryer remotely via Xiaomi’s app, which also provides OTA updates. The machine is designed to fit on a countertop, with dimensions of 328 x 452 x 461 mm (~12.9 x 17.8 x 18.1 inches).

    Availability and Pricing

    Currently, you can purchase the Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Mini Washer and Dryer 1.2kg in China for CNY 1,999 (~$278). It appears that this product may not be available in Europe, since the company has not yet introduced its laundry appliances in that region. Nevertheless, Xiaomi does offer other smart home gadgets in Europe, such as the Robot Vacuum X20+ (currently priced at €362.90 on Amazon Germany).

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    New Xiaomi Smart Mini Washer Dryer Now Available

     

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  • Philips Hue and Sonos Voice Control Integration Coming Soon

    Philips Hue and Sonos Voice Control Integration Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonos is developing voice command functionality for Philips Hue smart home devices.
    2. This feature will allow users to control smart lights and modify brightness using voice commands.
    3. The exact functionality and activation method of this feature remain unclear until officially confirmed by Sonos.
    4. Sonos users can currently manage Philips Hue devices using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, but there are performance issues with these integrations.
    5. The anticipated launch of Sonos Voice Control for Philips Hue is expected before the end of 2025, but no specific date has been announced.

    Sonos is apparently developing a new voice command functionality for Philips Hue smart home devices. This would mark a first for the company; while Sonos’ Voice Control already lets users ask for music from various streaming platforms or change the volume, it doesn’t yet allow control of smart home gadgets.

    Unclear Features Ahead

    Sonos hasn’t officially verified that Voice Control will work with Philips Hue products. Therefore, it’s uncertain how this feature will exactly function. Users will likely activate the assistant in the same manner as before, beginning commands with “Hey Sonos…”. Reports from Hueblog.com suggest that Philips Hue users could leverage this feature to turn smart lights on and off, as well as modify their brightness. There may also be an ability to initiate smart lighting scenes using voice commands.

    Existing Alternatives

    It’s important to mention that Sonos users can already manage Philips Hue devices via their speakers when using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. However, there have been longstanding problems with these integrations, which could affect performance.

    The introduction of Sonos Voice Control for Philips Hue is anticipated to happen before 2025 concludes. Nevertheless, a specific launch date has yet to be announced. Sonos Voice Control is currently available on several of the brand’s devices, including the Era 100 speaker (curr. $179 at Amazon).

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  • Hubble’s Sharpest Image of Fastest Interstellar Comet Ever

    Hubble’s Sharpest Image of Fastest Interstellar Comet Ever

    Key Takeaways

    1. 3I/ATLAS was first spotted on July 1, 2025, using the NASA-funded ATLAS system and the Gemini North Telescope, located 420 million miles from the Sun.

    2. Hubble Space Telescope observations suggest the comet’s nucleus could range from 1,000 feet to 3.5 miles in diameter, with visible dust plumes indicating activity.

    3. The dust loss rate observed aligns with typical patterns for comets discovered around 300 million miles from the Sun, as they heat up and release gas and dust.

    4. 3I/ATLAS travels at an extraordinary speed of 130,000 miles per hour, indicating it has been in space for billions of years, influenced by gravitational forces from nearby stars and nebulae.

    5. NASA plans further missions to study 3I/ATLAS, including its chemical composition, while some theorize it could be an alien probe, as suggested by Harvard University professor Avi Loeb.

    3I/ATLAS was initially spotted on July 1, 2025, thanks to the NASA-funded Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS), which was created by the University of Hawai’i. The comet was first seen 420 million miles away from the Sun with the help of the Gemini North Telescope. However, a follow-up observation by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope on July 21 has enabled scientists to better estimate the size of the comet’s nucleus.

    Size Estimations

    Data from Hubble indicates the nucleus could be as large as 3.5 miles (5.63 km) in diameter, though it might also be as tiny as 1,000 feet (304.8 m) wide. The images captured by Hubble show a dust plume coming from the side of the comet facing the Sun. Additionally, the pictures suggest that a dust tail is trailing away from the comet’s nucleus.

    Dust Loss Rate Insights

    The rate of dust loss revealed by Hubble’s observations isn’t unusual for 3I/ATLAS. It aligns with what is typically seen in comets first discovered around 300 million miles from the Sun. These comets, made of ice and dust, begin to heat up as they approach the Sun. The frozen materials transform into gas, leading to the dust being ejected away from the comet.

    Record-Breaking Speed

    Unlike other comets that have been observed, 3I/ATLAS is zooming through space at a staggering speed of 130,000 miles per hour (209,215 km/h). This rapid pace hints that the comet has been navigating through interstellar space for billions of years. It is thought that gravitational forces from stars and nebulae have gradually increased its speed over time.

    Despite the current information, one thing remains unseen—the nucleus itself. NASA has planned additional missions to gather more information about the comet, including what it’s made of chemically. In the meantime, Harvard University professor Avi Loeb has proposed a theory that it could be an alien probe.

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  • Anker Wireless Car Charging Pad: Qi 2.2 & 25W Fast Charging Leak

    Anker Wireless Car Charging Pad: Qi 2.2 & 25W Fast Charging Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anker wireless car charging pad is rumored to have a Qi 2.2 update and will be priced at $69.99 in the US.
    2. The new model, likely named Prime MagGo Qi v2.2, is expected to support up to 25 W fast charging.
    3. Features may include a built-in cooling fan to maintain phone temperature and a power indicator.
    4. The design is slightly updated, appearing longer, and will support a 45 W USB Type-C input.
    5. The release date is not confirmed, but the charger has received certification from the Wireless Power Consortium, suggesting a possible imminent launch.

    The Anker wireless car charging pad is rumored to receive a Qi 2.2 update. A recent leak claims it will have the model number A2933 and is expected to be priced at $69.99 in the US. For reference, the current non-Prime version of the wireless charger is available for $60.99 and supports a maximum of 15 W fast charging.

    New Features Ahead

    The new model is likely to be named Prime MagGo Qi v2.2 Wireless Car Charging Pad. With the Qi 2.2 upgrade, this wireless charger is anticipated to deliver up to 25 W fast charging. Additionally, the leak indicates that the charging speed is not the only enhancement on the way.

    Cooling and Indicators

    Specifically, the leak reveals that the forthcoming Anker Prime wireless charger may include a built-in cooling fan. This feature is expected to help maintain the phone’s temperature, which in turn will promote stable charging. It seems that there will also be a power indicator.

    Design Changes

    Anker appears to have made slight design updates as well, with the new version looking a bit longer than the existing non-Prime model. The leak mentions support for a 45 W USB Type-C input, and since it is a car wireless charger, it’s likely to come with a car power adapter.

    There is still no information regarding the release date of the updated Anker Prime MagGo Qi v2.2 wireless car charging pad. However, since the charger has already received certification from the Wireless Power Consortium, its launch could be imminent.

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  • High-Speed Trains from Boston to D.C.: Smooth but Slow Journey

    High-Speed Trains from Boston to D.C.: Smooth but Slow Journey

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amtrak is introducing new high-speed trains called NextGen Acela on the Northeast Corridor, reaching speeds of up to 160 mph.
    2. The NextGen Acela trains are based on Alstom’s Avelia Liberty model and feature two power cars at both ends, with Jacobs bogies connecting them.
    3. Improvements include 27% more seating, USB ports, and an upgraded tilting system for a smoother ride at higher speeds.
    4. Amtrak has not disclosed any significant improvements in travel times, though more express trains may enhance journey speeds.
    5. The definition of “high-speed rail” varies, with U.S. standards being lower than international classifications, and Amtrak markets the Acela as the fastest train in the Western Hemisphere.

    After much waiting, Amtrak is set to introduce new high-speed trains on the Northeast Corridor, connecting Boston, MA, and Washington, DC. The latest Acela trainsets will reach speeds of up to 160 miles per hour (mph), which is just shy of 260 km/h. This speed is 10 mph faster than the previous generation of trains, still referred to as Acela Express, which have been in service for over 25 years.

    NextGen Acela Details

    The new trains are officially named NextGen Acela, designed on Alstom’s Avelia Liberty model. The trains will continue to have two power cars located at both the front and rear. Additionally, both ends of the train are connected by a bogie known as Jacobs bogies, which complicates the process of altering the train’s length—a task that is infrequently undertaken in high-speed rail.

    Enhancements and Features

    These new Acelas are aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience. They offer 27% more seating per trainset, including eight spaces for wheelchairs. Also, the seating now comes equipped with USB ports, though only USB-A ports are available. Another improvement is the upgraded tilting system; similar to the former model, this train can lean into bends, but it is anticipated to provide a smoother ride at the higher speed of 160 mph. This could potentially allow for faster travel along the Northeast Corridor, which primarily consists of winding tracks with only brief sections suitable for high speeds. So far, the average speed has only been capped at 70 mph (112 km/h).

    Future Expectations

    Nevertheless, Amtrak has yet to reveal any improvements in travel times. Faster journeys may be possible by introducing more express trains, especially since Amtrak now has additional rolling stock. More details about the new Acela are anticipated before August 28th.

    So, the trains won’t exactly be lightning fast. In the United States, high-speed rail is defined differently, where a speed of nearly 180 km/h or 110 mph suffices. On the other hand, the International Union of Railways (UIC) classifies high-speed rail as speeds of 255 km/h, though it allows for exceptions down to 200 km/h in certain cases. In South Korea, high-speed rail operates at a minimum of 300 km/h.

    Amtrak’s Perspective

    Of course, Amtrak has its own viewpoint on this matter. In its marketing materials from 2020, the company touted it as the fastest train in the Western Hemisphere. This is a rather unique perspective, especially considering that Morocco had already achieved speeds of 320 km/h by that time.

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    High-Speed Trains from Boston to D.C.: Smooth but Slow JourneyHigh-Speed Trains from Boston to D.C.: Smooth but Slow JourneyHigh-Speed Trains from Boston to D.C.: Smooth but Slow Journey

     

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