Archives February 2026

One of the most advanced bike-fitting studios worldwide is tapping into the benefit of Flir thermal imaging technology to push the boundaries of sports science and biomechanics at all levels of cycling.

Located in Antwerp, Belgium, Bikefit Van Staeyen uses Flir-generated infrared images to visualize body heat and pressure distribution in real time, subsequently optimizing rider position and bike set up.

Bikefit Van Staeyen offers professional bike fitting based on more than 20 years of experience in cycling. Founded by brothers Kevin and Michael Van Staeyen (a former professional road racing cyclist), the business has built its success on extensive expertise in sports science, biomechanics and cycling. What started as a passion for precision and performance evolved into one of the world’s most advanced bike-fitting studios.

The principal differentiator of Bikefit Van Staeyen is its dual-expert approach: every bike fit is performed by both brothers working together, merging technical analysis and professional cycling experience with medical understanding.

“This synergy allows us to identify patterns and dysfunctions far beyond what conventional systems can capture,” explains Kevin.

Real-time insight

Central to the process is the use of advanced thermal imaging technology from Flir, which provides a real-time view into physiological asymmetries, pressure distribution, and underlying muscular imbalances. 

“We use a Flir infrared camera to study a heat map of a rider pedaling to optimize body position and bike set up,” says Kevin. “By combining thermography with motion tracking, force analysis, and EMG [electromyographic] data, we can see what others can only guess: how the rider’s body reacts, compensates, and adapts under load. We’ve named our thermography application ‘Lava.flow’, a process that allows us to understand and optimize injury-prone areas, muscle activation, and pressure points in a completely new way.”

Bikefit Van Staeyen initially used a Flir E76 thermal imaging camera but has since migrated to the newer E96. The E96 is Flir’s first pistol-grip camera with 640 × 480 thermal resolution, allowing users to survey targets safely and quickly. This advanced sensor offers complete coverage of near and distant targets through a range of lens options. In addition, Flir Ignite provides the automatic uploading of E96 images directly from the camera to the cloud for easy, secure storage and sharing.

As pioneers in thermal analysis for cycling applications, Bikefit Van Staeyen works in close collaboration with Thermal Focus, a Flir Platinum Partner and stockist of the largest selection of Flir infrared cameras in the Benelux (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxemburg) region.

Temperature in focus

The hot spots and cold spots identified by Flir thermal cameras serve as direct indicators of how a cyclist’s body functions on the bike. An excessive temperature increase in certain areas can indicate overexertion, friction, or poor posture. 

Using the Flir E96, Bikefit Van Staeyen can: detect hot spots and elevated pressure zones on the saddle, shoes, or handlebars; identify asymmetric muscle loading and unbalanced activation patterns; analyze vascular restrictions that may lead to numbness or reduced performance; and detect thermal irregularities that could indicate overload.

With this in-depth thermal analysis, the brothers are able to identify a range of issues that prompt adjustments for the optimal riding experience. For instance, asymmetric heat distribution around the kneecap points to a possible biomechanical problem, while too much heat in the ball of the foot typically means incorrect positioning of the cleat position. Similarly, increased temperature in the lower back could be the result of a compensatory mechanism or incorrect saddle adjustment.

“While traditional bike fits are often based on observation and feel, we use objective, data-driven measurements from the Flir thermal camera,” reveals Kevin. “Our Lava.flow process gives us unique, real-time insight into how a rider’s body responds while cycling. By way of example, we recently helped a cyclist experiencing unexplained knee pain during rides. Using our Flir infrared imaging technology, we observed excessive heat accumulation in the tibia [tibialis anterior muscle]. Thanks to the Flir imaging of this increased heat and our leg length software, we discovered that this leg was structurally shorter and that the rider had to pull the pedal excessively upward when cycling, resulting in knee pain.”

All levels of cyclist

Cyclists turning to Bikefit Van Staeyen for assistance range from dedicated amateurs to World Tour professionals. They trust the company for the same reason: attention to detail. From saddle pressure to neural load; from crank dynamics to thermal asymmetry – no variable is left unexplored. The company is also pioneering the bike-fit domain at university level, a first in Europe, by collaborating with the University of Antwerp to integrate data-driven approaches.

“We want to serve as the fundamental partner and reference point for thermal camera technology within the sport of cycling,” concludes Kevin. “Our ambition is to help shape the future of performance diagnostics, not just for our own athletes, but as a knowledge and technology hub for teams and riders worldwide. With our expertise and experience we can demonstrate the immense potential of thermography in biomechanical and performance analysis.”

Kolkata, Feb 20 : Advancing the education objectives of the India–UK Vision 2035, David Lammy, UK Deputy Prime Minister inaugurated the UK Education Hub at the British Council, the UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural exchange, in the presence of Lindy Cameron OB CBE, British High Commissioner to India, Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council, Prof. Eloise Philips, the Academic Provost of the Southampton University Delhi, and dignitaries from India and UK, including Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s Champion for International Education.

The British Council, with over 78 years leading education cooperation between the UK and India, has established the UK Education HUB to help deliver this shared vision – enabling engagement, collaboration, and alignment to India’s National Education Policy and the UK International Education Strategy through a single, structured platform.

UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said:

“To build a better future, we must invest in the next generation who will shape it and expanding access to education will create lasting change.

“By bringing together governments, universities and institutions, the UK Education Hub in New Delhi will forge deeper partnerships with India – sharing expertise, sparking innovation and growing our economies. This demonstrates our shared ambition of turning the UK-India Vision 2035 into a reality.

“Delivering quality education today will change the world of tomorrow – empowering new ranks of entrepreneurs, scientists and leaders who will transform our shared future.”

The Hub will manage the Annual Ministerial India-UK Education Dialogue and support achievement of the education objectives of India-UK Vision 2035. It will act as a platform for structured engagement between UK universities, Indian government ministries, regulators, and sector bodies ensuring smooth two-way transfer of information and a stronger partnership between the education sectors of the two nations.

Looking ahead

The UK Education Hub will:

• support delivery of the Annual Ministerial India-UK Education Dialogue
• coordinate requests for information and support for all UK universities seeking to engage in India
• create and manage the UK Universities in India Members Programme
• support progress on mutual recognition of qualifications
• provide continued support for inward and outward education and skills missions between the two countries.

By creating a single, coordinated interface for engagement, the UK Education Hub reinforces India and the UK’s shared ambition to deepen collaboration in education, research, and skills development, strengthening people-to-people ties and supporting inclusive, sustainable growth.

Feb 20th: The BC Jindal Foundation, the social arm of India’s leading business conglomerate, the BC Jindal Group, is empowering youth and women in Howrah by imparting high-demand skill training, boosting their employability, and building sustainable livelihoods. As part of this initiative, the foundation is committed to improving participants’ socio-economic conditions through assured placement opportunities. 

The BC Jindal Group, led by Shyam Sunder Jindal, Promoter BC Jindal Group, through its foundation’s initiative “BC Jindal Skill Centre, Belur, Howrah”, aims to train 1,000+ candidates from marginalized and deprived communities annually across nine vocational trades of 5 sectors (Healthcare, Hospitality, Apparel, IT, and Industrial Tech) that include Industrial Electrician, Multi Skill Technician, Sewing Machine Operator, Domestic Data Entry Operator, Child Caretaker, Housekeeping, Food and Beverages Services, Phlebotomy Technician, and General Duty Assistant. 

Through this initiative, the foundation plans to ensure more than 70% placement across batches, promote women’s participation, and create a skilled workforce aligned with local and regional industry needs while simultaneously supporting long-term economic self-reliance. 

“The BC Jindal Foundation remains committed to creating value for people, society, and the environment through strategically designed social impact programs. Our Howrah skill centre aims to provide industry-relevant, short-term vocational skill training across high-demand trades to youth and women from underserved communities who lack access to quality skill training aligned with industry requirements. Through such initiatives, we will continue to work towards bridging the skill gap by providing structured vocational training and placement support, to achieve socio-economic growth,” said the spokesperson of BC Jindal Foundation. 

The foundation’s skill centre is working toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of ‘Quality Education’ of SDG 4 to ensure students acquire quality knowledge, ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’ of SDG 8, which focuses on skilled youths, better employment and ‘Gender Equality’ of SDG 5 by empowers women and ensuring equal access to economic resources, skills, and opportunities. In addition, the initiative also aims to realize SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by creating a skilled workforce, which is essential for technological advancement and industrial development, and offering skills training for vulnerable groups (disabilities, indigenous peoples) that promotes inclusivity. 

“Our centre has the capacity to train 1,000+ candidates annually and facilitates placement for nearly 70% candidates in relevant trades. After receiving an encouraging response, we plan to scale the program by expanding trade offerings, strengthening industry partnerships, and increasing training capacity,” added the spokesperson. 

The BC Jindal Foundation has planned a Rs 40 crore investment for various CSR projects across India during FY26. Through this, the foundation plans to focus on improving healthcare, skill development, animal welfare, and nutrition by expanding its ongoing initiatives and introducing new projects under its CSR program. The BC Jindal Group plans to intensify its CSR operations in the states of Delhi, West Bengal, Haryana, and Maharashtra, among others. 

Founded in 1952 by Shri B.C. Jindal, the BC Jindal Group, led by Shyam Sunder Jindal, Promoter, BC Jindal Group, is one of India’s leading conglomerates and is engaged in a diverse portfolio of businesses that includes packaging films, energy & steel products.

Chandigarh, Feb 20: In a decisive step towards accelerating EV mainstreaming, TATA.ev, India’s leading provider of zero emission personal mobility solutions, today launched the new avatar of its popular Punch.ev, ushering in the next wave of mass EV adoption in India. Designed to democratize entry level electric mobility, the new Punch.ev brings together everything customers seek in not just their first electric car but also their first household car, by holistically addressing the key barriers limiting EV ownership—affordability, range confidence, charging convenience, and battery assurance; thereby solving the full equation for mainstream EV adoption at scale.

Launched at an attractive introductory price of just INR 9.69 lakh the new Punch.ev brings EV ownership to near on‑road price parity with ICE offerings in the entry‑level small‑car segment

TATA.ev is also offering the option of BaaS, starting at INR 6.49 lakh with a Battery EMI of INR 2.6 / km, enabling an alternative financing option for customers.

Launching the new Punch.ev, Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicle Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said,

“The new Punch.ev, makes electric mobility truly accessible, practical and worry free for every household. With a real-world range of ~355 km, fast charging capability, a lifetime HV battery warranty and a highly accessible price point, it resolves the core concerns that have thus far held customers back from choosing an entry level EV as their primary car. By bringing together everything customers seek in their preferred car for both daily and long-distance travel, the new Punch.ev marks a significant leap forward in the democratization of electric mobility in India.”

Beyond Limits

Built on the advanced acti.ev architecture, the new Punch.ev takes pure EVs to the next level. Having pioneered the subcompact SUV category while retaining its spot as one of India’s most loved SUVs, the Punch in its EV avatar is an undeniable choice for a wide spectrum of buyers.

Addressing Range Anxiety with longer real-world range and a larger battery pack

With a larger 40 kWh LFP prismatic cell battery pack delivering a higher and more meaningful real-world C75 range ~355 km and ARAI certified (P1+P2) range 468 kms, the new Punch.ev is ideal for everyday city use and short intercity trips, with reduced need for frequent charging stops. Additionally, the new Punch.ev will also be offered with a new 30kWh battery pack option. With these two options combined, the new Punch.ev enables a seamless transition for customers from ICE to electric, delivering superior drive quality, lower running and maintenance costs, and uncompromised every day or long distance travel on a single charge.

Faster charging, more driving:

With fast charging support, the battery can quickly charge from 20% to 80% in just 26 minutes. Furthermore, it easily tops up the battery with 135 Km of real-world range in just 15 minutes, roughly the time of a quick tea or coffee break on long drives

Lifetime Battery Warranty covering unlimited km:

The new Punch.ev comes with a Lifetime HV Battery Warranty covering unlimited KM, providing long-term coverage on the most critical EV components, giving first time owner customers added reassurance during ownership.

Rapidly Expanding Charging Ecosystem:

TATA.ev’s charging network covers over 2.3 lakh charging points across 1,500 cities through home, community and partners’ public charging. TATA.ev has aggregated over 30,000 public chargers in collaboration with over 30 charge point operators. Customers can check for the real time availability/status of active chargers via IRA.ev app for seamless navigation and end to end payments. TATA.ev monitors the reliability of public chargers and has curated a ‘.ev Verified’ charger network, comprising of 2,500+ fast, secure and highly reliable charging points across 500 cities and towns. Elevating the charging experience to world class levels, TATA.ev has established India’s largest superfast charging network- 450+ charging points across 130+ Mega Charging Hubs on 80 highways- this footprint will expand to 800 charging points by FY26.

Bengaluru, Feb 20: Blue Machines AI and Cartesia today announced a strategic partnership to deliver India-first conversational AI solutions for Indian enterprises, with an initial focus on regulated sectors such as BFSI and healthcare.

As Indian enterprises shift from pilots to production-scale conversational AI, two priorities have become clear: the need for natural multilingual voice experiences that reflect India’s linguistic diversity and India-resident processing aligned with regulatory expectations. Together, Blue Machines and Cartesia deliver enterprise-grade intelligent voice agents that seamlessly understand intent, execute complex workflows, integrate with existing systems, and respond naturally with ultra-low latency across regional languages. By uniting state-of-the-art voice technology with advanced real-time orchestration capabilities – the partnership enables organizations to deploy scalable, context-aware voice solutions that drive operational efficiency and enhanced customer experiences.

India-resident data processing ensures compliance with regulatory, governance, and auditability requirements – critical for enterprises operating in highly regulated sectors. Multilingual capabilities spanning Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Marathi enable enterprises to deliver culturally relevant and hyper localized interactions across customer care, onboarding, and collections workflows.

The partnership enables enterprises to deploy multichannel voice agents across telephony and digital platforms. Real-time speech generation and intelligent workflow execution minimize response times, enhance operational efficiency, and maintain consistent brand voice quality – even during high-volume interactions. Through this collaboration, customers gain access to Cartesia’s full suite of enterprise-grade offerings, including flexibility with on-premise or cloud-hosted deployment options. The companies have developed a jointly tested deployment architecture tailored for regulated environments, with attention to latency management, audio handling, interruption control, fallback behaviour, and operational governance. The solution emphasises production readiness, monitoring, and observability to ensure reliability at enterprise scale.

Blue Machines’ Voice AI stack manages the end-to-end call lifecycle – from telephony connectivity and real-time audio streaming to dialogue orchestration and integrations with CRM, banking systems, messaging platforms, and internal APIs. Cartesia’s conversational AI model infrastructure is the first to enable ultra-low-latency speech processing for Indian languages, hyper-realistic voice generation, and streaming responses that allow smooth conversational flow, even during interruptions.

Select Examples of Enterprise Applications and Measured Results

BFSI – Multilingual collections and service: Banks can reduce collections operating costs by up to 45% while improving promise-to-pay conversion by 15-25% by deploying a collections voice agent. The agent engages customers in their preferred language, retrieves EMI and account details from backend systems, and provides immediate payment pathways – all within an India-resident processing environment that ensures regulatory compliance and eliminates manual follow-ups.

Healthcare – Appointment management and follow-ups:

Hospital networks can cut no-show rates by 25-40% and achieve 30-50% faster appointment confirmations by automating appointment confirmations, rescheduling, and patient reminders through low-latency, natural voice interactions. This frees staff to focus on high-value care delivery while maintaining governance standards for data processing of confidential patient information.

Enterprise customer support – High-volume inbound queries

Telecom and utility providers can increase Tier 1 query automation rates by 60-80% and drive down call center costs by 30-50% while boosting CSAT scores. This is achieved by deploying voice agents that authenticate customers, execute workflows in real time, and resolve billing queries, service requests, and plan changes in regional languages.

Arjun Desai, Co-Founder of Cartesia, said,

“Enterprises expect voice experiences that are fast, natural, and expressive, without compromising on control and reliability. Sonic 3 delivers ultra low latency, human quality speech across the top 9 Indic languages. We power millions of daily voice interactions for global customers including ServiceNow, Gupshup, and Magicbricks. We are thrilled to partner with Blue Machines and double down on our commitment to the Indian market through our new Bangalore office. As voice becomes the primary interface for Indian enterprises and consumers, we look forward to building that future alongside daring and innovative partners.”

Nirmit Parikh, Founder and CEO of Blue Machines AI, added,

“For Indian enterprises, compliance and regional language support are foundational. This partnership enables organisations to deploy India-resident, multilingual Voice AI workflows with the performance, governance, and scale required for regulated industries.”

Looking ahead, the companies plan to expand support for additional Indian languages, introduce new enterprise workflows, and closely partner on evaluation and model improvements. The collaboration aims to improve customer satisfaction, increase deployment speed, and deliver measurable business impact for enterprises adopting Voice AI.