EV Café Takeaway

Sarah Clarke from Europcar Mobility Group joins Paul Kirby to discuss her role and the broader initiatives Europcar is implementing to promote sustainable mobility. As the B2C Marketing Manager, Sarah highlights how Europcar is actively transitioning its fleet to electric vehicles (EVs), ensuring that customers can experience EVs firsthand, thereby demystifying electric transportation. The discussion delves into the challenges of shifting a traditional rental fleet to a sustainable model, emphasising customer education and infrastructure enhancements. Sarah's personal anecdotes about her transition from hospitality to the automotive industry, coupled with her experiences in marketing, lend a unique perspective on the adaptability and customer-focused strategies necessary for the evolving mobility landscape. Watch this episode on Youtube https://youtu.be/4sIoD1WGaM0 Sarah Clarke https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahclarke00/ Europcar Mobility Group https://www.europcar-mobility-group.com/

Asif Ghafoor, the spirited force behind Be.EV., shares his journey of pioneering a customer-centric revolution in the EV charging infrastructure space. Initiated during the 2020 lockdown, Be.EV. aims not just to build an extensive charging network but to intricately weave it into the community fabric, ensuring the technological leap benefits all, not just a few. Asif's narrative is a testament to the transformative power of community engagement and relentless innovation in crafting a future where technology serves humanity. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/STdaVuJURbI Asif Ghafoor https://www.linkedin.com/in/asif-ghafoor-095486/ Be.EV. https://be-ev.co.uk/

Will Reeves, Commercial Vehicle & Bus and Coach Section Manager at SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) joins us on the EV Café for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of April’s Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC, Birmingham. As a passionate advocate within the automotive industry, Will underscores the vital roles of hydrogen and electric vehicles in achieving net-zero goals—pointing to the UK's leading position in zero-emission infrastructure. Will underscores the significance of the Commercial Vehicle Show (CV Show), slated for 23 - 25 April 2024 at NEC, Birmingham, UK. This event is in many circles known as THE platform for the commercial vehicle industry in the UK, showcasing the latest and greatest in CVs. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/5k3ZMCSvz28 Will Reeves https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-reeves-3a079627/?originalSubdomain=uk SMMT https://www.smmt.co.uk/ CV Show https://cvshow.com/

Guy Haydon, Chief Commercial Officer of AeroVolt, delves into the pioneering world of electric aircraft charging. AeroVolt is a startup building a public network for electric aircraft charging, akin to EV charging for cars. Despite the nascent market, with AeroVolt owning 10% of the UK's electric aircraft (a total of one plane), the industry's future looks promising with many manufacturers exploring electric and hybrid models. The focus is initially on light aircraft and flight schools, with electric offering significant operational cost savings. Haydon's journey from aspiring Navy pilot thwarted by a peanut allergy to leading roles in the electric vehicle and now electric aircraft sectors is a testament to his adaptability and drive. Despite the challenges, including overcoming range anxiety and infrastructural hurdles, AeroVolt's strategy involves deploying chargers and fostering industry growth through partnerships and technology. Haydon’s entrepreneurial spirit shines as he discusses future plans, emphasising the need for capital to scale operations and make the UK a leader in electric aviation. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/BLABfvC-Vdc Guy Haydon https://www.linkedin.com/in/guy-haydon/ Aerovolt https://aerovolt.co.uk/

Paul Allera, Technical Director at the RHA (The Road Haulage Association) shares his journey in the transport industry, emphasising the significance of giving back and supporting the SMEs within the road haulage sector. His rich background, beginning as an apprentice mechanic and evolving through various roles, highlights a deep-rooted passion for the sector. He underlines the importance of mentorship and development within the industry, showcasing a commitment to enriching the SMEs that form the backbone of transport logistics. The conversation also ventures into the realm of electric vehicles and the challenges and opportunities presented by the shift towards a zero-emission future. The need for government support, better infrastructure, and a community-driven approach to tackle these challenges is underscored. Allera's infectious positivity and dedication to the transport sector shine through, offering insights into the evolving landscape of road haulage and the collective effort required to navigate towards a sustainable future. Paul Allera https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-allera-b7b5501a/ RHA https://www.rha.uk.net/ Watch this episode on Youtube https://youtu.be/qheT8bJSvO4

In this episode, we delve into the journey of electrification in the commercial vehicle sector with Mike Cutts, Business Line Director at Iveco. With a focus on transitioning from diesel to electric vehicles, Mike highlights Iveco's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The conversation covers the launch of the E-Daily, Iveco's electric vehicle that boasts impressive capabilities, such as a 3.5-ton towing capacity, showcasing how Iveco is not just meeting but exceeding market expectations. Mike's background, from his initial foray into the automotive industry to his passion for extreme sports, reveals a leader driven by perfectionism and a desire to make a positive, lasting impact. Under his leadership, Iveco has doubled its market share, emphasising the importance of team effort and the role of people in business success. The episode also touches on the future of Iveco, aiming to increase awareness and continue growth in the electric vehicle sector. Watch this video on YouTube https://youtu.be/eeTBJu44SRY Mike Cutts https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-cutts/ Iveco https://www.iveco.com/uk

Emma Thompson, distinct from her Hollywood namesake, highlights her journey and passion in the engineering sector, particularly her role at the Society of Operations Engineers. This episode dives into the evolution of the engineering field, emphasising diversity, inclusion, and the significant shifts towards sustainability. Thompson shares insights on the crucial support systems for engineers, the importance of professional development, and how engineering conventions like the Commercial Vehicle Show serve as pivotal networking and innovation hubs. Her discussion underscores the evolving landscape of engineering, including the impact of AI and the push towards greener technologies, while stressing the importance of engaging the next generation through modern platforms. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/7cuSg34DB-A Society of Operations Engineers soe.org.uk Emma Thompson https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-thompson-msoe-8900302b/

Tomas Edwards, who transitioned from financial services to business strategy and consulting, discusses his journey and passion for the EV sector. He highlights the significance of software in optimising EV charging networks, emphasising the need for future-proofing infrastructure with advanced protocols like OCPP 2.0.1. Edwards shares insights into the evolving landscape of EV adoption, stressing the importance of accessible and efficient charging solutions to support the growing number of electric vehicles. His commitment to sustainability and vision for a cleaner future shines through, inspiring listeners to consider the broader impacts of their career choices and the role of technology in driving environmental progress. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/u5c1cGeMJPU Tomas Edwards https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomasgedwards/

In this episode, Mark Newberry, Commercial Director for Europcar Mobility Group, shares his journey from a working-class upbringing to being a key player in the EV rental sector. With a history steeped in challenging norms and a personal discovery of dyslexia later in life, Mark highlights the importance of adaptability, resilience, and passion in driving both personal and industry-wide change. His account delves into the transformative power of embracing neurodiversity, the pursuit of sustainable mobility, and the vital role of ethical leadership in fostering inclusive growth. Mark's narrative is a testament to the impact of visionary thinking and perseverance in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future in the electric vehicle landscape. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/BFHu8_d5beI Mark Newberry https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-newberry/ Europcar Mobility Group https://www.europcar-mobility-group.com/

In this captivating episode, Fraser Crichton from Dundee City Council takes us through Dundee's ambitious journey towards electric vehicle (EV) integration, highlighting the city's innovative approach to EV infrastructure and fleet electrification. With a focus on reducing pollution and enhancing air quality, Fraser shares insights into Dundee's strategic deployment of electric taxis, refuse collection vehicles, and the creation of EV charging hubs. His narrative is driven by a passion for sustainable transport and a deep commitment to community engagement, showcasing Dundee's leadership in green fleet management and infrastructure development. Through collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to tackling challenges, Dundee exemplifies a city at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/sDEAWK2tMyc Fraser Chrichton https://www.linkedin.com/in/fraser-crichton-1a804152/

Renee Rogers, CEO and founder of ONO, discussed her journey from managing a fleet of vehicles to creating a tech company aimed at streamlining the reporting and management of road traffic incidents for fleet owners and drivers. With a background that transitioned from the wedding industry to fleet management, Renee identified a gap in the efficient handling of accidents. This realisation led her to develop ONO, a solution designed to aid drivers in reporting accidents quickly and efficiently. Launching after extensive beta testing, ONO promises a revolutionary approach to fleet management, emphasising data transparency and the empowerment of fleet owners. Renee's resilience and determination shine through as she outlines her vision for taking ONO global, starting with English-speaking markets and expanding with a multilingual app. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and the importance of data in transforming fleet safety and efficiency. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/andOJRgMI3U Renee Rogers https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneerogers1986/

In this episode, Dan Caesar delves into the transformative journey of Fully Charged, highlighting its role in advancing EVs and clean energy. As the platform evolves into the global brand "Everything Electric," Dan's insights underline the expanding horizon of electrification. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping Fully Charged's impact and reach, emphasising the significance of innovation and sustainability in the EV sector. Through engaging storytelling, Dan shares his vision for a cleaner, electric-powered world, inspiring listeners to embrace the shift towards renewable energy solutions. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/46S4IPVtz2M Fully Charged (YouTube Channel) https://www.youtube.com/user/fullychargedshow Fully Charged (website) https://fullycharged.show/ Dan Caesar https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancaesar/

This episode features Duncan Webb from The AA, an innovator and expert in the fleet industry. Webb's journey from a farm job managing 3,000 chickens to becoming a fleet management leader reflects his drive and adaptability. He shares insights from transitioning BT's fleet to a B2B strategy and his evolution from a finance professional to a fleet expert. At The AA, Webb leads a diverse fleet of over 8,000 vehicles, facing challenges like evolving technology and operational efficiency. He emphasises the importance of human elements in fleet management, advocating for young, tech-savvy fleet managers to lead the future of the industry. Webb's focus on people, innovation, and embracing new challenges makes him a pivotal figure in the evolving fleet landscape. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/waI21PX-HuM Duncan Webb https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-webb-a76579133/ The AA (careers website) https://www.theaacareers.co.uk/

In this insightful episode, Esther Jones from The AA delves into her 32-year journey with the organisation. Starting as a somewhat shy individual, Esther transformed into a confident professional, capable of effectively managing complex roles and nurturing strong relationships. Her resilience in facing personal and professional challenges, like contemplating a career change and coping with family tragedies, showcases her strength and reflective nature. Esther's belief in positive outcomes from negative experiences and her commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement stand out. Her role in the EV transition is pivotal, focusing on making EVs accessible and sharing her experiences to influence others. ### Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/CJpQ1eiQegc ### Esther Jones https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-jones-953002109/ ### The AA https://www.theaa.com/

Martin Dorey, author and surfer, delves into his passion for sustainable living, especially through the lens of camping, surfing, and EVs. His initiative, the "Two Minute Beach Clean," has gained global traction, emphasising the power of collective small actions for significant environmental impact. This campaign led to his book "No. More. Plastic." marking his foray into advocating for ocean conservation and climate action. He extends his influence to the younger generation with his series "Kids Fight Plastic," where he transforms children into eco-superheroes through engaging, actionable missions. These books, along with his "Take the Slow Road" series, encourage a more mindful and environmentally conscious lifestyle. Martin's conversation is a blend of personal stories, environmental advocacy, and practical advice for a more sustainable lifestyle. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/opC1C2_KVXk Martin Dorey https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-dorey-ba143216/ Martin’s books https://uk.bookshop.org/contributors/martin-dorey 2 Minute Beach Clean https://2minute.org/

In this episode, the EV Café team reflects on 2023's EV scene, discussing the rise in EV and van sales, and the expansion of charging infrastructure. They also tackle the challenge of overcoming negative media perceptions. Acknowledging their supporters and sponsors, they highlight the role of community and partnerships in their journey. Personal achievements and contributions to the EV industry are shared, expressing optimism and enthusiasm for what 2024 holds for electric vehicles. It's a mix of reflection, insight, and anticipation for the future in the EV world! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/3mpOEY1hoY4

In this episode, Russell Peterson, founder of Munro, delves into creating electric vehicles for challenging industries like agriculture and mining. Monroe initially planned to convert old Land Rovers to electric, but pivoted to developing new products based on customer feedback. Peterson's software background shapes Munro’s development strategy, emphasising iterative improvements through customer feedback. The episode highlights Munro’s unique approach in the EV market, showcasing Peterson's journey from software to automotive innovation, and the company's commitment to sustainable and impactful business practices. ### Watch on YouTube https://youtu.be/RzmepOTRIFA ### Munro https://www.munro-ev.com/ ### Russell Peterson https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-peterson-87410129/ ### Electric Van Man (Paul Kirby’s) Munro Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5e3NGeif__w

Join a captivating conversation with Inderveer Singh of EVage Motors. Motivated by the devastating impact of emissions in his homeland of India, Singh introduces EVage's innovative approach to electric vehicles, centred on a versatile foundational platform which promises to transform commercial EV production, enabling varied vehicle builds from a singular, adaptable framework. Singh illuminates the versatility and eco-friendliness of this method, showcasing EVage's role in not just crafting electric vehicles but also revolutionising logistics and transport. A must-listen for those intrigued by the future of sustainable, flexible, and efficient electric mobility in the commercial realm. ### Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/9nyHF0tfuIg ### Inderveer Singh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inderveer-singh-7767b67/ ### EVage https://evagemotors.com/

This episode of The EV Café Takeaway features Toddington Harper, CEO of Gridserve, who delves into his unique personal journey and Gridserve's innovative approach to sustainable energy. Harper, inspired by a childhood in a solar-powered home, emphasises the pivotal role of renewable energy in combating climate change. He shares his experience with hydrogen fuel cells and the strategic shift to electric vehicles, underscoring the efficiency of EVs. Harper's vision is vividly embodied in Gridserve's Electric Forecourt, redefining EV infrastructure. His narrative, interwoven with a deep connection to nature and a mission-driven approach, showcases his leadership in driving meaningful change in the EV sector. ### Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/8lG_3d3e1_c ### Toddington Harper https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddington/ ### Gridserve https://www.gridserve.com/

Charlie Gilbert shares his battle with severe depression in this episode of The EV Café Takeaway. Despite his successful career and active lifestyle, he faced a mental health crisis, underlining that such challenges can affect anyone. His recovery, supported by loved ones and professionals, highlights the importance of communication and balance in life. Engaging in community work and hobbies, Charlie demonstrates a holistic approach to well-being. His story is a powerful reminder to openly discuss mental health issues, offering hope and guidance to others, emphasising that everyone has the opportunity to "play again" in life. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cctD4GtAvFM Charlie Gilbert https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-gilbert-fd/ Field Dynamics https://www.field-dynamics.co.uk/