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Today β€” 10 April 2025News

How Uber Freight is leveraging AI to make truck routes more efficient

10 April 2025 at 10:16
Trailer with Uber Freight logo on the side

Rodolfo Benitez for Business Insider

  • Trucking industry leaders want to minimize empty-trailer trips to improve costs and efficiency.
  • Uber Freight is using AI on its platform to provide trucking companies with more optimized routes.
  • This article is part of "How AI Is Changing Everything: Supply Chain," a series on innovations in logistics.

Moving air has become a nuisance for the trucking industry in recent years.

A recent industry report estimated that at any given moment, roughly 35% of all trucks on US freeways were empty of goods.

For example, a truck driver might secure a load to haul from Long Beach, California, to Chicago, but once they drop off the load, they'll head home with a trailer full of, well, nothing but air.

This problem isn't just about inefficiency but also cost. Wasted time and fuel mean extra expenses for shippers, which eventually leads to higher prices for consumers. The issue is also related to sustainability: Additional carbon emissions and inevitable road congestion undoubtedly affect our environment.

Uber Freight β€” a business unit of Uber Technologies β€” has set out to solve this problem and do it almost exclusively with artificial intelligence. It works a lot like the Uber app does on a smartphone.

With the Uber app, riders are the users and request transport from all available drivers. With Uber Freight, truckers and trucking companies are the users and they can use it to line up different loads so their trucks aren't running empty for more than a few hundred miles a day.

This way, instead of going from Long Beach to Chicago and back, a truck might bring new loads from Chicago to New Orleans, New Orleans to Houston, and Houston to Phoenix before heading home.

The technology behind this platform uses AI to optimize shipping routes, Uber Freight CEO Lior Ron told Business Insider. He said that this technology could cut a truck's empty rate to as low as 10%.

"The ultimate goal is to make every mile of a trip a paid mile and make it worth everybody's while that these guys are out there making deliveries," Ron said. "We can't achieve that yet, but we sure can come a lot closer."

How Uber uses machine learning to create more optimized truck routes

Since the trucking-specific Uber Freight platform launched in 2023, it has used machine learning to pioneer an algorithm that ensures carriers receive up-front guaranteed pricing for trucking and freight.

This algorithm has been used by thousands of companies, including 200 of the Fortune 500s, Ron said. He added that the system had moved more than $20 billion in freight.

"By looking at hundreds of parameters, we've been able to make the model accurate enough that it has removed all the friction and back-and-forths of trying to estimate the price of trucking," Ron said. Those parameters include weather and traffic conditions and road closures.

Uber Freight is also using machine learning to address vehicle routing, a complex issue that involves determining the most efficient route for a vehicle to deliver goods to a set of locations. Here, the issue is not so much avoiding traffic as routing trucks so that their trailers are full more often than not.

By algorithmically designing the optimal route for the truck driver, the company has been able to reduce empty miles by between 10% and 15%, Ron said. This benefits vendors, trucking companies, drivers, and consumers since lower transport costs typically translate to lower product costs.

Freddie Jimenez, the owner of F&J Logistics Inc. in Kansas City, Missouri, said that Uber Freight makes it easier for him to plan his day, find loads that fit his schedule, and keep his wheels moving.

"As a driver, the most important thing is staying on the move. I am not wasting hours waiting or worrying about where the next load is coming from," Jimenez told BI.

Why more efficient trucking matters

Uber Freight's technology is part of a broader push among logistics companies to use AI to gain a competitive advantage, said Jose Reyes, a senior director and analyst for Gartner's supply chain division.

"AI systems can analyze weather, traffic, and road conditions to suggest optimal routes in real-time," Reyes told BI in an email. "This is a tremendous benefit in not only efficiency but with driver safety, load planning, and dispatching. This application of AI can significantly reduce manual work."

Chris Caplice, the executive director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, hosted a webinar on AI in logistics with Ron late last year. There, Caplice said Uber Freight's technology is an example of innovations in the trucking industry.

"By being trained continuously, the models will learn better routing policies automatically; if a policy shifts, for example, the model will pick up on it, eliminating the need for specialty algorithms," Caplice said during the event. He added: "AI models generalize well to solve previously unseen problems such as vehicle capacities."

Leveraging agentic AI

Uber Freight is also deploying agentic AI to improve efficiency.

This flavor of AI hinges on the ability to use human language to mimic human interactions.

Uber Freight deploys the technology in a customer support center and uses it as the first line of defense against complaints.

Ron said that by dispatching canned messages to certain inquiries, the company expected to reduce its waiting time to 30 seconds from five minutes.

These shortened wait times can help with efficiency by minimizing the time drivers spend dealing with customer service for simple tasks, like receiving a link on their smartphone or a document.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I read 'The Art of the Deal.' Here are 7 lessons from Trump's book we're seeing play out with tariffs.

10 April 2025 at 10:12
Donald Trump pointing
Tidbits from "The Art of the Deal" helped me make sense of Trump's moves on tariffs.

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

  • I read Donald Trump's 1987 book "The Art of the Deal" to try to understand his tariff tactics.
  • Several lessons and lines stood out to me, like his dismissal of traditional "number-crunchers."
  • From aiming high to a focus on physical goods, here are seven illuminating tidbits from the book.

I'm not an economist. The last real math class I took was advanced algebra my senior year of high school. Needless to say, the recent tariffs have made my head spin.

But I am an avid reader. I was an English major in college and am a member of two book clubs. That's why I turned to "The Art of the Deal," a 1987 book credited to President Donald Trump, to see if it gave me any further insight into Trump's tariff strategy. It details Trump's childhood and real estate deals alongside snappy one-liners of business advice.

When I wrote this piece on April 9, Trump had just announced a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for some countries, sending US stocks soaring after a major sell-off. He raised the tariff rate on China to 145% and kept a baseline of 10% on imports from most other countries. It remains to be seen how negotiations will play out.

This nearly four-decade-old book showed me tactics reflected in Trump's recent actions. Here are seven insights from "The Art of the Deal" that give some insight into Trump's tariff strategy.

Representatives for the White House did not respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

'I aim very high, and then I just keep pushing and pushing'

Trump said β€” or, really, the journalist Tony Schwartz, who ghost-wrote "The Art of the Deal" said β€” that his dealmaking philosophy is simple.

"I aim very high, and then I just keep pushing and pushing and pushing to get what I'm after," he said in the book. "Sometimes I settle for less than I sought, but in most cases, I still end up with what I want."

His recent moves reflect as much. Despite some recent pullbacks on his reciprocal tariffs, Trump originally levied far bigger taxes on foreign nations than most anticipated. With an initial 20% tax on the European Union and 46% on Vietnam, for example, he certainly aimed high.

When it comes to China, he keeps "pushing and pushing." At the time of writing, he had imposed a 145% tariff on China after it hit the US with a retaliatory tax. The risks of this back-and-forth are outlined just a few paragraphs later in "The Art of the Deal."

"I still hope you won't follow my advice," Trump wrote of those like him who have "the genes" to be good at business. "Because that would just make it a much tougher world for me."

'I don't hire a lot of number-crunchers, and I don't trust fancy marketing surveys'

When announcing his tariffs, Trump defied many mainstream economists, prominent CEOs, and conventional political wisdom. As markets cratered, he insisted that his plan was sound.

"I do my own surveys and draw my own conclusions," he wrote in the book, saying that he crowdsources opinions until he begins to get "a gut feeling."

Though Trump eventually paused many additional tariffs for at least 90 days, he persisted through days of criticism from billionaires and even his closest advisors, including Elon Musk. Now, Trump and some in his orbit are saying that he proved the critics wrong and perfectly executed his plan.

The president referenced his gut feelings when speaking to reporters on Wednesday about a Truth Social post announcing the 90-day pause.

"We wrote it from our hearts," he said.

'All's well that ends well'

This line references a prolonged legal battle with residents at New York City's 100 Central Park South. As Trump told it in the book, he wanted to knock down the building after buying it. The tenants eventually ended up keeping their apartments. Still, Trump wrote that the delay actually amounted to a win since he ended up making more money due to market swings (though some tenants maintain that they came out on top, as the New York Times reported).

"All's well that ends well," Trump wrote at the end of the chapter, noting his large profits.

The same philosophy is on full display with the tariff negotiations. Amid financial and political turmoil, Trump urged everyone in a post on TruthSocial to "BE COOL! Everything is going to work out well."

When Trump issued his 90-day pause, he said that people "were getting a little bit yippy" and the bond market was "tricky."

"The bond market right now is beautiful," he continued, indicating that, for now, all as he sees it has "ended well." Some in the business world aren't as sure.

'We won by wearing everyone else down'

Trump said he successfully negotiated a deal regarding a property on NYC's West 34th Street by exhausting the competition.

"In the end, we won by wearing everyone else down," he wrote in the book. "We never gave up, and the opposition slowly began to melt away."

He's claiming much the same type of victory now. In his Truth Social post announcing the 90-day pause, he said that more than 75 countries had called to negotiate.

The book focuses more on the physical world, like buildings

"The Art of the Deal" recounts Trump's real estate triumphs β€” though reporting shows he hasn't always been as successful as he often claims β€” and focuses on buildings like the Commodore Hotel and Trump Tower. In it, Trump muses about architectural styles, concrete, and the color of marble. He does write extensively about prices and touches on market conditions, but his focus on the physical world jives with his current focus on American manufacturing.

"Jobs and factories will come roaring back into our country," the president said when he first announced the tariffs on April 2. In a Truth Social post on April 8, he said he's the "President who stands up for Main Street, not Wall Street."

Though Trump ultimately cited the bond market when issuing a 90-day pause, his focus on physical goods and "Made in America" is subtly woven into the pages of "The Art of the Deal."

The media and critics can't be trusted, but press is generally a good thing

Throughout the book, Trump criticizes the media, contending that it's set against him. He quoted a letter he addressed to an architecture critic: "Your recent article is an obvious 'setup' in preparation for the negative review you intend to do."

Still, Trump wrote repeatedly that the press is an unavoidable and important part of being a public figure and that even negative coverage can work in his favor.

"From a pure business point of view, the benefits of being written about have far outweighed the drawbacks," he wrote. He added that more "outrageous" projects tend to attract more attention.

On the tariff front, Trump's boldness has dominated coverage, even as he maintains that the media is skewing the narrative β€” his press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, told reporters on Tuesday that many in the media "clearly missed 'the art of the deal.'"

Read the original article on Business Insider

I drove Lincoln's Chinese-made Nautilus. Here are 14 reasons it's one of the best luxury SUVs you can buy

10 April 2025 at 10:07
The right front corner of a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV parked on the street.
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus is made in China.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

  • The Lincoln Nautilus is a midsize luxury SUV made at Ford's factory in Hangzhou, China.
  • I recently drove a 2025 Nautilus in midlevel Reserve III trim.
  • I was impressed by its elegant styling, premium interior, and show-stopping tech.

The Lincoln Nautilus is one of the most impressive luxury SUVs to hit the market in recent years, competing against industry stalwarts like the Lexus RX and Audi Q5.

I recently drove a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus in mid-tier Reserve trim, and it wowed me with its elegant styling, premium, high-quality interior, and a show-stopping suite of tech features.

The base Nautilus Premiere starts at $51,890, while the top-spec Black Label trim kicks off at $75,050.

My Reserve trim test car starts at $61,010. Freight fees and the other add-ons pushed the as-tested price for the Chinese-made SUV to $67,060.

Here are 14 reasons the Nautilus is one of the best luxury SUVs you can buy.

Elegant styling
Two photos show the front and rear of a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III Luxury SUV parked on the street.
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III exudes old-school charm.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Lincoln is eye-catching and attractive but never feels the need to shout about it. The Nautilus conveys a dignified, old-school charm in a thoroughly modern package.

There is no tacky body cladding or superfluous badging extolling the vehicle's luxury street cred. In fact, the word "Lincoln " appears only once on the SUV (on the tailgate), and the Nautilus badge appears only twice, tastefully adorning the front doors. That's it.

ICE and hybrid engine options
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the opened hood of a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
The Lincoln Nautlius's turbocharged, four-cylinder engine.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

Under the hood of my test is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged, direct-injected inline-four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque. It's paired with a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, which comes standard on all trims.

There's also an optional hybrid version of the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that produces 310 total system horsepower and is paired with a CVT. The hybrid Nautilus is rated for 30 mpg of combined fuel economy, up from the 24 mpg of the ICE version.

Panoramic Screen
The front dash and panoramic display in a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV parked on the street.
The Lincoln Nautilus's screen actually reminds me of the curved dash from Lincoln's boldly styled Mark 8 coupe of the 90s.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The centerpiece of the cabin is the massive 48-inch Panoramic Screen that spans the entire width of the front dash.

The Panoramic Screen is actually comprised of two smaller screens, the driver instrument display and navigation screen on the left and an information display in front of the passenger.

Functionally, everything except for the instrument display is controlled using the 11.1-inch touchscreen on the center stack with a Google-based operating system.

The system was highly responsive and intuitively organized. It features built-in Google Maps, web browsing, and media streaming capability.

High-quality interior
The front cabin of a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV from the passenger side.
The Lincoln Nautilus's interior is truly impressive.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

While the massive panoramic screen on the front dash may steal the show, it's Lincoln's thoughtful eye for detail that stands out, like the soft touch leather materials in high contact areas, upscale metallic and glass finishes on switch gear, and subtle wood grain accents create a refined and tasteful environment.

Overall ergonomics of the Nautilus interior are excellent, with plenty of story and charging options. Lincoln's build and the material quality of the interior are both excellent. Everything felt well screwed together with no rattles or squeaks around.

Integrated door handle
The driver's door handle on a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
Lincoln's signature door handles.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The integrated door handles are one of my favorite design touches. It's a feature shared with the most recent Lincoln Continental sedan, one of my other favorite cars.

Perfect Position seats
The black leather front seats in a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
The Nautilus front seats.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

Lincoln has traditionally done well with seat design, and this trend continues with the Nautilus and its Perfect Position seats.

The leather, massaging front seats were some of the most comfortable and supportive I've experienced in a long time. The 24-way power adjustability allows you to really fine-tune the positioning of the seat.

Plush rear cabin
Three photos show the rear seats, rear seat USB-C sockets, rear seat heater controls, and AC vents in a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
Four USB-C sockets and an AC power socket fulfill all of your charging needs.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

Lincoln did not skimp when it came to putting together the rear cabin. Material quality continues to be excellent, as do the fun accent pieces adorning the cabin. The heated, contoured leather seats feel plush and supportive.

Lincoln Rejuvenate
The visual component of Lincoln's Rejuvenate multisensory experience in a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
Lincoln Rejuvenate's Aurora Borealis setting.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Nautilus comes with a multi-sensory relaxation feature called Lincoln Rejuvenate. It's basically an in-car spa experience that uses the seats' heat and massage features along with a selection of sounds, scents, and visuals to create a curated relaxation time for the driver when the vehicle is stationary.

BlueCruise handsfree driving
The oval steering wheel in a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III Luxury SUV.
The Nautilus oval steering wheel.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Nautilus comes with a four-year subscription to Ford's/Lincoln's excellent BlueCruise hands-free driving tech, which works brilliantly on straight highway sections. The system augments the intelligent adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems that come standard on the Nautilus.

Securicode keyless keypad
The touch-sensitive Securicode keyless keypad on the driver's door of a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
The Lincoln Securicode keyless keypad.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Nautilus also comes with Ford's keyless keypad, a staple on high-end Ford models for more than 40 years. The pad, located on the front door pillars, allows keyless entry via a programmable five-digit code.

28-Speaker sound system
The Revel speakers on the driver-side rear door of a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV.
The Revel Ultima 3D audio system.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Revel Ultima 3D sound system in the Nautilus is truly impressive. The 28-speaker system is immensely powerful but also capable of picking up minute nuances in the music.

Relaxed and refined driving experience
The driver's side of a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV parked on the street.
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

Despite the peppy acceleration from the 250-horsepower turbo four under the hood (0-60 in 7.3 seconds, according to Car and Driver), the Nautilus was made for comfortable cruising.

Keep the driving relaxed, and the Nautilus will reward you with a smooth and effortless experience. The cabin remains quiet and well isolated even in rush hour traffic and the suspension dispatches with the bump with ease without feeling like a wallowy land yacht.

Adjustable cabin scents
The digital scent menu on the 11.1-inch touchscreen in a 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III midsize luxury SUV.
The Nautilus cabin's digital scent menu.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Nautilus comes with three different scents that the driver can diffuse throughout the cabin. They range from Violet Cashmere, which smells of florals and fresh linen, to Mystic Forest, which is woody and smells of patchouli.

LED animation lights
The front of a black 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III luxury SUV parked on the street.
The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve III.

Benjamin Zhang/Business Insider

The Nautilus is equipped with Lincoln's Embrace welcome lighting system, which detects the keyfob and illuminates the door handle lights as the driver approaches the vehicle. The LED light bars on the front and rear of the vehicle also perform an animated light show to greet the driver.

Read the original article on Business Insider

32 vintage photos from the days when cruise ships were glamorous

Passengers in the VIP lounge aboard the QE2 luxury liner in 1969
Passengers in the VIP lounge aboard the QE2 luxury liner in 1969.

Michael Stroud/Getty Images

  • Today's cruise ships may have zip lines and skating rinks, but they're not all as elegant as they once were.
  • People used to dress up in tuxedos and evening gowns.
  • To pass the time, events like egg-and-spoon races were commonplace.

Nowadays, cruise ships may boast large swimming pools, planetariums, and zip lines, but many floating resorts have lost their timeless elegance.

Before air travel became commonplace, cruise ships were the only method of long-distance travel.

These ships β€” on which celebrities and wealthy people would spend weeks and months at a time β€” were the epitome of class and luxury.

Take a look at these stunning pictures of cruise ships in their glory days.

Cruise ships of the past were more than just floating malls.
Lalique columns in the art deco interior of a luxury cruise ship dining room in 1935
Lalique columns in the art deco interior of a luxury cruise ship dining room in 1935.

Hulton Archive/Getty Images

Celebrities like Mae West were regulars. West famously preferred sea travel to flying.
Mae West on a cruise ship.
Mae West on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

As were Hollywood icons like Cary Grant ...
Cary Grant on a cruise ship.
Cary Grant on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... former first lady Jackie O ...
Jackie O. on a cruise ship.
Jackie Onassis on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... silver screen actor Elizabeth Taylor ...
Elizabeth Taylor on a cruise ship.
Elizabeth Taylor on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... and Ginger Rogers.
Ginger Rogers on a cruise ship.
Ginger Rogers on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

Cruise ships weren't just ways to travel from one place to another β€” they were seen as luxurious vacations in their own right.
Women sit on a railing on the deck of an unspecified cruise ship during a cruise to Bermuda in 1961.
Women sit on a railing on the deck of an unspecified cruise ship during a 1961 cruise to Bermuda.

Graphic House/Getty Images

Many cruise ships were equipped with swimming pools. Some had marble tiling.
Passengers swim in a pool aboard a Panama Cruise Line in 1956.
Passengers swim in a pool aboard a Panama Cruise Line in 1956.

Universal History Archive/Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

This 1950s cruise ship served a buffet lunch poolside.
A crew served a buffet lunch poolside on this 1950s cruise ship
A crew served a buffet lunch poolside on this 1950s cruise ship.

ClassicStock/ClassicStock/Getty Images

Pre-internet and smartphones, people came up with all sorts of ways to pass the time.
Travelers on a cruise ship.
Travelers on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

They played games ...
Travelers playing games.
Travelers playing games.

Courtesy of Cunard

... engaged in rounds of tug of war ...
Travelers playing tug of war.
Travelers playing tug of war.

Courtesy of Cunard

... and even set up boxing matches.
Travelers engaging in a boxing match.
Travelers engaging in a boxing match.

Courtesy of Cunard

They had egg-and-spoon races, too.
Travelers participating in an egg and spoon race.
Travelers participating in an egg and spoon race.

J. B. Helsby/Getty Images

Cruise ship dining halls featured waiters in white jackets serving dinner and drinks.
A busy cruise ship dining room in 1950
A busy cruise ship dining room in 1950.

Graphic House/Getty Images

This dining room looked more like an opera house than a cruise ship cafeteria or buffet.
Dining hall on a cruise ship.
Dining hall on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

Even older passenger ships boasted incredible skylights ...
Skylight on a cruise ship.
Skylight on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... and intricate carvings on the walls.
Wall carvings on a cruise ship.
Wall carvings on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

More modern cruise ships in the 1960s had sweeping spiral staircases.
A grand staircase in the double-down room of the QE2 in1969
A grand staircase in the double-down room of the QE2 in 1969.

Peter King/Getty Images

People got really dressed up for dinner, opting for cocktail dresses or even black-tie attire.
People enjoying cocktail hour during a cruise to Bermuda, 1961.
People enjoyed cocktail hour during a cruise to Bermuda in 1961.

Graphic House/Getty Images

Of course, everyone drank a lot, too. After all, there's an old wives' tale that Champagne is good for seasickness.
Patrons at a bar on a cruise ship.
Patrons at a bar on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

In the 1960s, cruise ship lounges became more futuristic-looking.
The interior of the Queen's Room on the QE2 liner in the 1960s.
The interior of the Queen's Room on the QE2 liner in the 1960s.

Keystone/Getty Images

There were dancing events, like this hula class on a cruise ship in 1954.
A large group of women learn dance moves at a hula class in the main saloon on the SS Lurline during a voyage, mid July, 1954.
A large group of women learned dance moves at a hula class in the main saloon on the SS Lurline during a voyage in mid-July 1954.

Gene Lester/Getty Images

Passengers could also enjoy live music on board.
Live music on a cruise ship.
Live music on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

Mostly, there was a whole lot of lounging around.
Cruise ship passengers reclining on deck chairs on the promenade deck of an ocean liner at sea in 1956.
Cruise ship passengers reclining on deck chairs on the promenade deck of an ocean liner at sea in 1956.

Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

Despite being in the middle of the ocean, cruise ships offered all the amenities of the mainland.
A server on a cruise ship.
A server on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

Passengers could call home ...
Passengers calling home on a cruise ship.
Passengers calling home on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... get their laundry done ...
The laundry room on a cruise ship.
The laundry room on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

... and even pick up prescriptions at the on-board pharmacy.
The onboard pharmacy on a cruise ship.
The onboard pharmacy on a cruise ship.

Courtesy of Cunard

Some cruise ships had air-conditioned cinema and theater rooms where guests could catch a movie.
The air-conditioned cinema and theatre of the Ocean Monarch cruise ship in 1951
The air-conditioned cinema and theatre of the Ocean Monarch cruise ship in 1951.

Jimmy Sime/Getty Images

People could also exercise in group classes, like this aerobics class on a cruise ship in 1961.
Passengers exercising on the deck of a cruise ship during a voyage to Bermuda, 1961.
Passengers exercised on the deck of a cruise ship during a voyage to Bermuda in 1961.

Graphic House/Getty Images

It was also possible to get married on a cruise ship, like this couple pictured in 1960.
A woman in a wedding dress and a man in a suit celebrate their wedding on a cruise ship in 1960
A couple celebrated their wedding on a cruise ship in 1960.

Marka/Touring Club Italiano/Marka/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Read the original article on Business Insider

How much did Elon Musk's DOGE bender put a dent in Cybertruck sales? Here's an answer.

10 April 2025 at 10:01
Trump and Musk in front of White house and cybertruck
Donald Trump had Elon Musk and a Cybertruck to the White House. Is such a close association affecting sales?

Mandel NGAN / AFP

  • Elon Musk's focus on DOGE has hurt Tesla's sales.
  • But how much has his DOGE bender affected the Cybertruck?
  • Q1 estimates from Cox Automotive provide some clues.

We know that Elon Musk's DOGE bender has seriously hurt sales of Tesla cars. But what about the Cybertruck specifically?

Tesla doesn't break out quarterly delivery numbers for this divisive vehicle. But once a quarter, Cox Automotive estimates electric vehicle sales and includes a number for Cybertrucks.

This is one of the only sources where you can see how the Cybertruck performed in any period. The angular, futuristic beast is either loved or despised. As Musk has waded deeper into DOGE, this vehicle has become even more polarizing, if that was possible. (I've even stopped mentioning that I once had a reservation to buy a Cybertruck. Please don't tell anyone.)

About a month ago, I was walking with a friend through my hometown and there was a Cybertruck parked near the sidewalk. It had a deep burgundy wrap and I remarked on that. My buddy started swearing and shouting about Elon and how despicable the vehicle was. I'd never seen him so angry (except when the Eagles lose).

With reactions like this, I've been wondering if anyone at all would buy a Cybertruck this year. And yet, I see them around Silicon Valley relatively often still. So, how did it do in Q1?

Cox estimates that Tesla sold 6,406 Cybertrucks in the first three months of 2025.

That compares to 12,991 units in the fourth quarter of 2024 before Elon went full DOGE. (This decline happened even as Tesla cut prices.)

A year ago, in the first quarter of 2024, Tesla delivered 2,803 Cybertrucks, according to Cox.

The Cybertruck had been outselling some other EV truck models. But this time, in Q1, Ford sold more F-150 Lightning trucks, according to Cox estimates.

At one point, in the third quarter of 2024, the Cybertruck was the third-most-popular EV in the US, outselling every other non-Tesla electric vehicle, according to Cox.

Q3 seems such a long time ago now.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I've lived in Charleston for 20 years. If you want to have a good time in my city, there are 10 things you need to know.

10 April 2025 at 10:00
Traditional houses in old town Charleston South Carolina
As a longtime local, I've seen a lot of tourists make the same mistakes in Charleston, South Carolina.

benedek/Getty Images

  • After living in Charleston, South Carolina, for 20 years, I have a lot of advice for visitors.
  • Prepare for the humidity, cobblestone streets, and laid-back pace before visiting the city.
  • Check the event calendars and the weather, and make your dinner reservations in advance.

I've called Charleston, South Carolina, home for nearly two decades.

It's a great place that's often voted one of the best cities to visit on travel guides and lists β€” in part for its renowned historic charm, vibrant culture, and incredible food scene.

It draws a lot of visitors, and I've seen many of them make common mistakes or miss out on incredible opportunities in the city.

Here are a few things I want visitors to know before they head to Charleston if they want to have a great trip.

The humidity here is no joke.
Charleston South Carolina
Charleston can get hot and humid during the summer months.

Peter Unger/Getty Images

Charleston can get incredibly humid, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for thick, muggy air and pack accordingly β€” light, breathable fabrics are your best friend.

Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and don't underestimate the impact of the heat.

Charleston's culinary scene is about much more than just seafood.
Box of fried chicken with collard greens, pickles, sauce
There's some great fried chicken to be had in Charleston.

fdastudillo/Getty Images

Although seafood is a staple in Charleston's cuisine, the city offers much more than just fish and oysters.

From classic Southern comfort dishes like fried chicken and collard greens to globally-inspired options like Thai, Italian, and French cuisine, there's something for everyone.

Be sure to explore the city's diverse culinary landscape when you visit.

You can't walk around with open containers.
Server holding tray of cocktails
Stick with drinking at bars and restaurants.

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South Carolina has strict open-container laws, meaning you can't drink alcohol in public places like streets or sidewalks.

I've seen too many tourists strolling with a beer in hand, only to be stopped by local law enforcement. Keep your beverages confined to bars and restaurants to avoid fines and frustration.

Don't miss a stop at the nearby Isle of Palms.
Boats along Isle of Palms
Isle of Palms has a laid-back coastal vibe.

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Although downtown Charleston receives much of the spotlight, a trip to the Isle of Palms (about 15 miles away) is well worth your time.

With its pristine beaches, great dining options, and opportunities for paddleboarding or kayaking, it's an escape that balances the historic charm of downtown with a laid-back coastal vibe.

In my opinion, Wild Dunes Resort on Isle Of Palms is also worth a visit for a night or two. It combines Charleston's charm with private beach access, golf courses, a spa, pools, and more.

Leave your heels at home.
Cobblestone street in Charleston
Cobblestone streets can be tough to navigate in heels.

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Charleston's historic cobblestone streets may look charming, but they can be a nightmare for anyone in heels.

Wedges or sneakers are a much better choice for strolling through the city if you want to feel comfortable and safe on uneven terrain.

Make sure you know the beach-access and parking rules.
Sunrise on beach in South Carolina
Always read signage about rules.

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The city's surrounding beaches are beautiful, but accessing them comes with some rules.

In particular, pay close attention to parking signs β€” some areas require all four tires to be off the road, and failure to comply can result in a ticket.

Plan ahead and know the regulations to avoid any hassles.

There's almost always a festival or event happening, so do your research before you visit.
People at a silent disco at Charleston Wine + Food Festival
Charleston Wine + Food Festival has a bunch of events.

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Charleston's sense of community and celebration makes it feel like there's always a festival taking place.

And, in reality, the city's calendar is packed with events year-round, from the Charleston Wine + Food Festival to Spoleto Festival USA, which is all about performing arts.

Check out the city's event schedule before you visit β€” you might stumble upon a unique experience.

It can get cold here even though we're in the South.
Frozen fountain in Charleston
Yes, it can get cold in Charleston.

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Although Charleston is in the South, don't assume it's warm all year round.

If you're visiting in January or February, be prepared for chilly temperatures that can dip into the 30s. On rare occasions, you might even see snow.

It's not poolside weather during these months, so pack accordingly and plan indoor activities just in case.

Mentally prepare yourself for the city's slower, laid-back pace.
Brittlebank Park by the Ashley River in Charleston, SC.
Charleston tends to be swloer

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Charleston operates at its own relaxed rhythm, and it's part of the charm. Take your time, enjoy leisurely meals, and stroll through the historic streets without rushing.

Also, remember to be polite and courteous β€” holding doors open for others is a common practice and a great way to show Southern hospitality.

Try not to huff and puff if you're used to hustle and bustle, as that's not the vibe here. Charleston invites you to slow down and soak in its tranquil, easygoing atmosphere.

Book your dining reservations in advance.
Restaurant in south carolina at night
Some restaurants in Charleston can be hard to get a table at because they're so popular.

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If you're hoping to dine at one of the many popular restaurants in Charleston, it's definitely wise to book your table early.

However, keep in mind that some local favorites, like Chubby Fish, don't take reservations, so be prepared to wait in line for a table.

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Here's why Coca-Cola bottles have yellow caps right now

10 April 2025 at 09:53
Coca-Cola bottles with yellow caps.
Coca-Cola bottles with yellow caps.

Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

  • On Passover, observant Jews refrain from eating leavened foods or foods with leavening ingredients.
  • Yellow caps on Coke bottles indicate the soda is kosher, or fit, for drinking on Passover.
  • It's made with Coke's original recipe of sucrose instead of corn syrup.

If you've perused the beverage aisle of your local supermarket lately, you may have noticed that some soda bottles are sporting yellow capsΒ instead of their usual colors. That's because the Jewish holiday of Passover is approaching, and if you're a devoted foodie, you might want to grab a bottle before it disappears until next spring.

Year-round, Jewish organizations like the Orthodox Union work with companies to ensure that the food they produce meets dietary standards as detailed in the Torah and codes of Jewish law. If everything checks out, their products are certified kosher β€” meaning fit or proper in Hebrew β€” with symbols on the packaging.

On Passover, Jewish dietary restrictions are different and require a higher level of certification

This year, Passover begins on the evening of April 12 and lasts through April 20.

Many Jews observing the holiday of Passover refrain from eating anything categorized as "chametz" β€” leavened foods or foods with leavening ingredients made from barley, rye, oats, wheat, or spelt β€” for the duration of the holiday. Eastern European Jews of Ashkenazi descent (which make up about 75% of the Jewish population) also avoid another category known as "kitniyot," which includes legumes and other grains like corn.

A yellow cap on a bottle of Coca-Cola, indicating that it's kosher for Passover.
A yellow cap on a bottle of Coca-Cola, indicating that it's kosher for Passover.

Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Coca-Cola is certified kosher year-round, but its high-fructose corn syrup renders it unfit for consumption on Passover.

Coke actually used to be made with sucrose (made from cane or beet sugar) instead of high-fructose corn syrup, but when the switch was made, Coca-Cola sodas became off-limits on Passover.

In 1935, Rabbi Tuvia Geffen, who served as the rabbi of Atlanta's Congregation Shearith Israel for 60 years, worked with the company to reinstate a limited run of the original recipe around Passover time so that Jews observing the holiday could still enjoy it, The New York Times reported.

Today, bottles containing the Passover-friendly soda are marked with yellow caps

The caps are also stamped with "O-U-P," the Passover kosher certification symbol of the Orthodox Union.

It's not just observant Jews who are grateful for Coke without corn syrup.Β Purists, foodies, and hipsters who can tell the difference between the two concoctions wait all year to buyΒ up batches of Coca-Cola with sucrose, claiming it tastes better with the original sweetener.

Try it while it lasts!

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