Finland

On July 22, TactoTek announced that it had collaborated with fischer automotive for a smart surface technology demonstrator to show examples of design innovation that fulfill market demands for vehicle interior systems.

Under the partnership, the companies have developed a technology demonstrator that integrates sensor surfaces for command inputs illuminated by LEDs molded directly into plastic structures. It also includes a raised round knob for multi-touch rotary inputs, featuring tactile elements to assist users. 

The design integrates human-machine interface sensors, circuitry, and lighting into a single seamless injection-molded part that serves as both the mechanical structure and is only 3mm thick, which is designed and manufactured by TactoTek IMSE technology.

Based on TactoTek press release

On July 5, Lifeline SPAC I Plc and the shareholders of Canatu Oy concluded a share exchange agreement whereby Lifeline SPAC I acquired all shares, option rights, and other rights exchangeable to shares in Canatu to form a combined, publicly listed company. Lifeline SPAC I is a Finnish Special Purpose Acquisition Company founded for corporate acquisitions. 

After the completion, the combined company will be renamed Canatu Plc (in Finnish Canatu Oyj). The new combined company targets a revenue of over EUR 100 million and an EBIT margin of over 30% in 2027.

Canatu’s current core includes CNT membranes for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography in semiconductors and film heaters for ADAS in automotive. The combined company will be an attractive opportunity for Canatu to ensure access to additional capital and position itself as a leader in advanced CNT technology.

Based on Canatu press release

On June 28, the Finland Government approved changes to the Act on Fixed-Term subsidies for buying and converting vehicles to use alternative fuels or propulsion systems. The subsidies for buying vans and lorries, as well as converting passenger cars, are available through the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom.

The amendment will enable the continuation of subsidy programs for buying gas-powered vans and trucks, aligning with updated EU state aid rules. The act will also reinstate subsidies for converting passenger cars offering a EUR 1,000 subsidy for converting cars to run on gas and a EUR 200 subsidy for converting cars to run on ethanol.

The application period for the purchase subsidy for electric, gas-fuelled, and hydrogen-powered vans and lorries will end on 31 December 2024.

Based on Ministry of Transport and Communications press release