( July 14, 2025, 07:47 GMT | Official Statement) — MLex Summary: Sixty-eight mobile apps have been flagged by Chinese authorities for illegally collecting and using personal data, according to the National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center, a technical unit under the country’s Internet regulator. The list includes apps linked to Guangzhou Automobile Group’s AION Y electric SUV, a software development kit from online game operator Xunlei, bubble tea brand ALittle Tea and China International Travel Service’s Aoyou platform. Authorities said violations included inadequate privacy notices, insufficient disclosure of third-party data-sharing arrangements and failure to provide accessible options to correct or delete user data. Several apps were also found to lack convenient opt-out mechanisms for automated marketing. The tests were conducted as part of a broader campaign led by China’s central authorities to strengthen personal-information protections.
The statement is attached: …
Travel Apps & Platforms
How Mobility-as-a-Service Platforms Can Pilot Greener Travel Behaviors | TheCityFix
A new digital platform being piloted in cities around the world is making public transportation more efficient, economical and accessible, while encouraging low-carbon travel.
Mobility-as-a-Service is an on-demand service that integrates various forms of transportation services into a single platform accessible to travelers via a digital app. The platform acts as a one-stop travel planning and payment system, encouraging users to plan their trips via shared bikes, metros, buses and other green forms of transport with support from real-time travel information.
Many countries around the world are piloting Mobility-as-a-Service in their cities, including Finland, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, Singapore, the United States, Sweden, the Netherlands, Australia and Belgium. Learning from these early programs can help design a more successful platform.
Beijing’s pilot, for example, is a unique case that nudges travelers away from private cars toward greener travel modes (like public transport or bike sharing) by linking the Mobility-as-a-System platform with local carbon markets, which rewards travelers for choosing greener travel methods.
Beijing’s Green Mobility-as-a-Service Journey
Beijing has been piloting a Mobility-as-a-Service platform since 2019. By opening the app on a mobile device and typing in the destination, the platform provides many different travel planning options with different durations, modes, prices and other information. The current platform integrates most transport services, such as bus, metro, shared bike, ridesharing, and taxis.
Since its launch, the platform has consistently adhered to the city’s “green and integrated” transport development strategy, receiving positive public responses. As of today, more than 30 million users have used the app, providing 4.5 million daily trips that include green transport services.
While this data is a very positive start to the program, more progress is needed to shift behavior from private car trips. As of 2022, the motor vehicle fleet in Beijing reached 7.1 million, including 4.9 million private cars. Total daily trips in central city totaled 33.9 million, with green transport, including walking, biking, and public transit, accounting for 73.4%.
The platform’s initial success is being supported in three ways:
1) Strong Government Policies
Strong policies, such as the “14th Five-Year Plan” and various digital transport development plans, have placed Beijing’s Mobility-as-a-Service on a green and inclusive track. These policies aim to promote smart mobility services, encourage green transport, increase the share of green travel and improve the Mobility-as-a-Service platform.
Beijing’s Mobility-as-a-Service strategy is also in line with the city’s and county’s low-carbon transport strategy. In June 2023, the Beijing government unveiled the “MaaS 2.0 Work Plan,” emphasizing green and inclusive mobility. It aims to continue expanding intelligent mobility services that seamlessly integrates bus, metro, bike sharing, ride-hailing, ridesharing, long-distance coach and more. The goal is to provide green and inclusive service to over 6 million people daily by 2025. This will realize a large share of behavior shift from private cars to green modes, as well as over 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide reduction during the next three years.
2) An Ecosystem Where Companies Work Together
Mobility-as-a-Service operates as a public-private partnership that includes governments, transport operators, financial institutions, Mobility-as-a-Service operators, technology and data providers, platform users and research institutions. The roles of each organization and company may vary depending on how the platform is set up and WRI research of the existing platforms shows there’s no defined business model.
For example, the Beijing initiative is led by the Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport and functions through a collaborative public-private approach. Operators like Gaode Maps and Baidu, which offer digital mapping services, act as platform facilitators. The city’s bus and metro operators and shared mobility providers are also well integrated. Other companies provide payment access, while additional businesses might be incorporated to provide discounts to online shops as incentives for using the platform. The primary users are individual travelers within Beijing.
3) A Reward System that Encourages Green Behavior
The Beijing Mobility-as-a-Service platform has been adopting a carbon market approach to encourage users to choose green transport options. Since September 2020, Beijing has introduced the “MaaS Travel, Green Life” Carbon-Inclusive Campaign, which is built into the app. Users who participate in the campaign automatically receive carbon reduction credits for their green travel behavior (for example, shifting from private car to shared bike, bus or metro). Users can then exchange the credits for things like discounted public transport cards or shopping vouchers. By now, the campaign has attracted over 3.5 million registered users, contributing to a cumulative carbon reduction of nearly 400,000 metric tons.
Among campaign participants, 21% of the users that primarily traveled by car each day have now engaged in green travel, which shows a significant increase in citizens’ willingness to adopt green options. Carbon credits are calculated based on the “Beijing Low-carbon Travel Carbon Emission Reduction Methodology” developed by Beijing’s transportation authority and its affiliated think tank. The approved local certified emission reductions credits (PCERs) credits will then be traded at Beijing’s local emissions trading system.
In 2021, Gaode Map, one of the platform operators, alone achieved transactions of 24,500 metric tons of PCERs, with 15,000 tons traded with local companies. The second phase of PCER transaction reached 97,600 metric tons. The benefits from the carbon trading returns to the app users in the form of public transport discounts, shopping coupons or users can donate their credits to charity organizations that promote green transport and other behavior changes for sustainability.
Creating a Successful Mobility-as-a-Service Platform
The value of developing Mobility-as-a-Service platforms is that it can improve efficiency and quality for travelers, encourage more people to choose green and low-carbon mobility modes, shape the public-transportation-centered mobility system, promote the digital transformation and open data system and improve the stability and level-of service of the system.
However, Mobility-as-a-Service also faces some challenges not only in Chinese cities, but in cities around the world. First, there is no single successful business model for all cities, and the operation models vary greatly in different places. Finding a suitable business model based on the local policy and investment environment, and culture to ensure commercial sustainability, will be the key to developing a successful system.
Also, the coordination among different stakeholders in a Mobility-as-a-Service ecosystem needs further improvement, especially for data sharing mechanisms.
Finally, establishing a proper monitoring and governance system is also an important part of the implementation process.
Expanding the development of Mobility-as-a-Service is an important step in building more sustainable cities and urban mobility. However, as we’ve learned through the pilot programs, the platform should be built consistently with a city’s existing low-carbon and sustainable strategy. Instead of public transportation companies acting as competitors with each other, Mobility-as-a-Service offers the possibility of creating a single platform that redefines the integrated transport system encompassing multiple kinds of shared and private mobility services.
This article is an update from the report “Mobility-as-a-Service Guideline for Chinese Cities and Cases Studies” from WRI China’s Mobility-as-a-Service project, under the Mobility and Accessibility Program (MAP), a collaboration between WRI and FedEx. This article reflects the independent views of the authors. The latest annual MAP report is here.
This article originally appeared on WRI’s Insights.
Su Song is an Associate for WRI China Ross Center for Sustainable Cities.
Miaoqing Zhong is a Research Assistant for WRI China Ross Center for Sustainable Cities.
Ding Tan is a Research Assistant for WRI China Ross Center for Sustainable Cities.
RV Life in the Digital Age: How Every Kind of Traveler Stays Connected with TravlFi
Life on the road has never looked better—or been more connected. Whether you’re running a business from a campsite, homeschooling from a national park, or just trying to stream your favorite show from the mountains, reliable RV internet is essential. That’s where TravlFi comes in.
Designed for RVers and travelers, TravlFi makes mobile Wi-Fi simple, seamless, and stress-free. With contract-free data plans, access to multiple nationwide networks, and easy setup, TravlFi helps you stay online during your adventures.
Nationwide Coverage Without Commitment
TravlFi was built specifically for travelers who don’t want to be tied down to one carrier, one contract, or one location. Unlike traditional providers, TravlFi devices connect to multiple nationwide networks, automatically finding the strongest signal available, even in places your cell phone might struggle.
With contract-free plans and a flexible, traveler-first approach, TravlFi makes it easy to stay connected on your terms. No roaming charges, no cancellation fees—just reliable coverage when and where you need it most.
For Digital Nomads: Work from Anywhere—Literally
Being a digital nomad means your office might be a forest, a beach, or the passenger seat of your RV. TravlFi’s JourneyGo Hotspot gives remote workers the freedom to stay connected with:
- Strong, secure 4G LTE internet that covers 99% of the U.S.
- Automatic network switching for the best available signal
- Fast upload/download speeds ideal for video calls, cloud files, and remote desktop apps
With TravlFi, you can ditch spotty campground Wi-Fi and confidently hit “Join Meeting” from the edge of a canyon—or your cozy dinette.
For RVing Retirees: Stay Connected, Stay in Control
For retirees embracing the full-time RV lifestyle, staying in touch with loved ones—and managing day-to-day tasks—requires a strong digital connection. TravlFi’s JourneyXTR Router makes it easy to:
- Stream your favorite shows or catch up on news from anywhere
- Bank, budget, and manage healthcare tools securely on the road
- Video chat with grandkids without the frustrating lag
Whether you’re chasing 70-degree weather or crossing off your bucket list destinations, TravlFi lets you enjoy the journey without losing touch with the people and tools that matter most.
For Full-Time Families: Powering School, Streaming, and Sanity
Full-time families on the road juggle everything from Zoom classrooms to streaming entertainment, all while bouncing from park to park. TravlFi’s XTR Pro 5G Router keeps your RV household connected with:
- 5G Wi-Fi support for up to 128 devices
- Enough bandwidth to stream, game, upload, and homeschool simultaneously
- A mobile setup that works for the whole family with 4G/LTE backup
Forget campground internet that crashes at dinner. With high-speed internet for RV families, everyone stays happy, entertained, and on track.
For Weekend Warriors: Coverage When You Want It
You don’t need to be a full-time traveler to benefit from solid RV Wi-Fi. TravlFi is perfect for part-timers who want on demand connectivity without a long-term contract. You’ll get:
- A device that’s ready to go as soon as you power it on
- Monthly data plans that flex with your trip schedule
- Private, secure Wi-Fi wherever your weekend takes you
Just pack it, power it, and connect. No installations, no obligations—just strong internet when you need it.
FAQs
Yes, TravlFi connects to most cellular towers. As you move to different locations TravlFi will automatically switch to the best available tower in that area.
No, TravlFi provides the internet! Thanks to eSIM technology, TravlFi automatically connects the device to the strongest available signal from most cellular towers in its area.
You may pause or cancel your subscription with TravlFi at any time and you won’t pay a reactivation fee when you’re ready to turn your service back on.
TravlFi’s pay as you go data plan costs are straightforward with a one-time activation fee. Monthly payments are made every month, from the date of your initial activation. Each monthly payment covers your next month of service. You may cancel your TravlFi subscription at any time and won’t pay a reactivation fee when you’re ready to turn your service back on.
Yes, TravlFi offers Canada & Mexico Data Plans to ensure your connectivity needs are met even beyond borders.
Freedom on the Road Meets Freedom to Connect
Whether you’re boondocking in the desert, driving along the coast, or parked lakeside soaking in the sun, TravlFi is your travel-tested connection to the digital world. Say goodbye to laggy campground Wi-Fi and hello to the freedom of staying connected—on your terms.
Back in 1921, four ambitious friends—Emanuel “Manny” Rosenfeld, Maurice “Moe” Strauss, Moe Radavitz, and W. Graham “Jack” Jackson—each threw $200 into the pot and cranked open the doors of what would become an American automotive legend: the original Pep Boys store.
Since opening that first location in Philadelphia over 100 years ago, Pep Boys has served communities across the United States. Today at our 800+ locations, our mission remains the same as it was back then: to make quality car care simple, convenient, and accessible to everyone. Make an appointment at your local shop today.
Fueled by Friendship: How Three Guys Changed Car Care Forever
When Pep Boys opened its doors, the golden age of cars was getting underway… and with it, the rise of the great American adventure. The three friends saw an opportunity to help a wave of new vehicle owners care for their cars and trucks. They likely couldn’t have imagined what was to come.
What started as a single store quickly expanded when the shops added auto service bays to help a fast-growing number of car owners care for their vehicles. That was the missing piece of the puzzle, and it helped to fuel America’s love affair with the open road.
A century later, Pep Boys is still rolling strong, proving that a little ingenuity, a lot of elbow grease, and a drive to always do right by your customer can take you a long way.
The Trio That Never Took a Backseat
Many people know Pep Boys because of the iconic, hand-drawn faces that have represented the founders—and cemented their friendship forever—since 1925.
As decades rolled by, these caricatures have changed a bit…but don’t we all? Manny ditched the cigar (modern times call for modern icons), but the heart of the trio stayed the same. Manny’s bespectacled knowledge, Moe’s welcoming smile, and Jack’s friendly wink that says “we know cars” still invite vehicle owners in for expert care.
Under their watchful eyes, the Pep Boys team remains committed to keeping you moving. We’d like to think that they’d be proud to see how we continue to do right by our customers, advising them on how to get their vehicle ready for life’s adventures, where that be a quick drive to the neighborhood grocery store for essentials or an epic, coast-to-coast family roadtrip.
6 Essential Car Tips Before Hitting the Road
Speaking of trips, don’t forget to ensure your vehicle is road-ready before you set out on YOUR next adventure. Use this expert advice from Pep Boys ASE-certified technicians to keep you moving smoothly and safely—in any season of the year.
1. Prioritize Your Oil Change
Fresh oil keeps your engine running efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear—especially over long distances. If you’re due (or even close to it), schedule an oil change before your trip. It’s a quick service that delivers long-term peace of mind.
2. Check Your Tires (and Get the Right Ones)
Tires aren’t just about traction—they’re about safety and performance. At Pep Boys, you can choose from trusted tire brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Kumho. Plus, you get expert guidance on what fits your vehicle and your budget.
Want your tires to go the distance? Don’t skip tire maintenance like rotations, balancing, and alignments—we can help with all of it.
3. Test Your Brakes Before You Cruise
Squeaks, squeals, or grinding noises are your brakes’ way of waving a red flag. Even if they sound fine, a quick inspection is smart before clocking serious miles. Our Brake Service ensures you stop just as confidently as you go.
4. Make Sure Heating & Cooling Systems Are Ready
Whether you’re battling summer heat or chilly mornings, your car HVAC system needs to perform. Weak airflow? Strange smells? Warm air when it should be cool? Bring it in for a checkup—comfort on the road is key.
5. Don’t Leave Your Battery to Chance
A dead battery is a road trip killer. If yours is over 3 years old, consider a replacement. If it’s newer, a free battery test at Pep Boys can tell you if it’s strong enough for the long haul. If not, our Battery Replacement service has you covered.
6. Pack (and Check) an Emergency Kit
Preparedness is more than peace of mind—it’s a must-have. Load up on essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, tire repair tools, non-perishable snacks, and first-aid supplies. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.
Bonus Tip: Want it all checked off in one stop? Pep Boys can help with every item on this list—from tires and batteries to brakes and A/C service. Book your appointment today and hit the road with confidence.
The most unforgettable adventures don’t begin at the destination—they start in the driveway, with a vehicle that’s road-ready and raring to go. Our expert technicians are here to make sure your car is just as prepared as you are. From oil changes and tire checks to brake service and battery replacement, we’ve got everything you need to drive with confidence. So fuel up, buckle in, and let Pep Boys handle the rest.
When it’s time to decide where the road should lead, don’t forget to explore our exclusive Pep Boys-approved Roadtrips—handpicked routes designed to turn your next drive into something truly epic. Adventure is calling—and we’ll help you answer it.
Travel Apps & Platforms
China flags 68 apps for data violations, including EV, travel and gaming platforms | MLex
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