Our Partners
The EV Café is extremely grateful to our partners for their support in making this happen.
























The EV Café is extremely grateful to our partners for their support in making this happen.

























Published 22 Apr 2026
This episode dives into the world of electric adventure travel with Tom Weiser and Kevin Murphy, co-founders of Nerpa Travel. Their company crafts low-impact, high-adventure trips that swap petrol-powered bangers for electric motorbikes and e‑bikes, combining sustainable transport with genuine cultural immersion. Tom and Kev share: * How COVID and COP26 inspired them to launch Nerpa Travel * The reality of running EV adventures in places like Vietnam, Thailand, and Wales * Charging challenges, public transport hacks, and “squeaky bum” moments on the road * Why small group travel and community connections are at the heart of their model * Plans for upcoming adventures, including potential West Africa expeditions From mountain passes in rural Vietnam to the slow travel benefits of local buses, this conversation explores how EV travel can be both practical and transformative. Find out more at [nerpatravel.com](https://www.nerpatravel.com) and discover their upcoming Lost in Vietnam trip, 3–13 December 2026.

Published 15 Apr 2026
Paul Kirby and John Curtis are joined by Mike Costain and Nick Davison from Nineteen Group, the organisers of the Commercial Vehicle Show (CV Show). Recorded in the run-up to the 2026 event (21–23 April at Birmingham NEC), the conversation dives into: - The growth of the CV Show, with over 330 exhibitors and a 30–35% increase from last year. - The EV Café Village and its 26 exhibitors, highlighting innovation in decarbonisation and electric vehicles. - New entrants to the UK market including Cherry, BYD, and returning brands like Stellantis, Renault, Ford, Maxus, and IVECO. - The launch of Bus & Coach Expo and the Ride & Drive experience, letting visitors test vehicles directly. - Why creating a buzzing, community-driven event matters for trade shows and how Nineteen Group builds that atmosphere. - The future of fleet electrification, the importance of infrastructure, and the role of the CV Show in supporting UK logistics and decarbonisation. From magicians and networking to new product launches and industry insight, this episode captures the energy behind the UK’s leading commercial vehicle event. ## CV Show <https://www.cvshow.com> ## Nineteen Group <https://www.nineteengroup.com> ## Nick Davison <https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-davison-94796614/> ## Mike Costain <https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-costain-794b8412/>

Published 08 Apr 2026
Buying a used electric car or van can feel like a leap of faith—how do you really know if the battery is healthy, how far it will go, or whether it will hold its charge? In this episode, we get to the heart of the current EV landscape with Alex Millinger of AVILOO, who specialise in plug‑and‑play battery diagnostics for EVs and PHEVs. From the surge in UK demand for battery health certificates, to the role of auctions and dealers in building buyer confidence, Alex explains how AVILOO’s technology delivers a full state‑of‑health report in just three minutes. We explore: - Why used EV buyers are now demanding battery certification - How AVILOO’s diagnostics and “battery cloud” turn data into actionable insight - Lessons from supporting fleets, dealers, and even private EV owners - The global challenge of keeping up with new models, including the flood of Chinese EVs - How better battery transparency is unlocking the second‑hand EV market If you’ve ever hesitated to buy a pre‑owned electric car or wondered how to protect the value of a fleet, this conversation offers a clear view of what’s possible—and how the right data can remove the fear factor from going electric. ## AVILOO Battery Diagnotics [https://aviloo.com](https://aviloo.com)

Published 01 Apr 2026
This week, we dive into the reality of energy as a strategic asset for businesses making the shift to electric vehicles. JC is joined by Michael Kent, Managing Director of Palmer Energy, a company designing and manufacturing battery energy storage systems in partnership with Oxford spin-out Brill Power. Michael unpacks: - How businesses can move from reacting to volatile energy markets to actively mastering them - The role of battery storage in overcoming grid constraints and unlocking EV fleet potential - Integrating solar, wind, and grid power into optimised energy strategies - The commercial realities of cost reduction, energy trading, and long-term resilience for fleets From small cabinet batteries to full 20-foot containerised systems, learn how Palmer Energy is helping companies future-proof their operations, reduce costs, and accelerate the transition to electrification—without waiting for perfect grid conditions. ## Michael Kent (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kent-15b75746/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kent-15b75746/) ## Palmer Energy [https://www.palmerenergytechnology.com](https://www.palmerenergytechnology.com)

Published 25 Mar 2026
Paul and John sit down with Fiona Howarth, founder of Octopus Electric Vehicles and part of the Octopus Energy Group, for a wide-ranging conversation that spans electric mobility, leadership, and the importance of living in the present. Fiona reflects on: - Building and scaling Octopus EV from concept to leasing hundreds of millions of pounds in vehicles. - Taking a transformative sabbatical to reconnect with her children, explore philosophy, and embrace “treasure time.” - How thinking differently—questioning societal “rules” and activating her creative side shapes innovation in EVs and beyond. - Leading with human connection, cultivating teams like a “dry stone wall,” and helping people discover their superpowers. - Earthset and Stellar Set, her initiatives fostering collaboration and leadership for a sustainable future. - Insights from Davos, battery circularity, and why the UK underestimates the personal benefits of green tech. ## Fiona Howarth (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-howarth/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-howarth/) ## Fiona’s Previous episode [https://www.evcafe.org/podcast-episodes/fiona-howarth-how-she-survives-her-toughest-moments](https://www.evcafe.org/podcast-episodes/fiona-howarth-how-she-survives-her-toughest-moments) ## Octopus EV [https://octopusev.com](https://octopusev.com)

Published 18 Mar 2026
This week we dive into the practical world of electric vehicle innovation with Ben Whittaker, Chief Technology Officer at Kerbo Charge. Ben explains how a simple pavement channel could solve one of the biggest barriers to EV adoption—charging for the majority of drivers without off-street parking—and why making technology “boring” is often the ultimate goal. From his early days salvaging components from skips to powering up a self-built computer, Ben shares how curiosity and hands-on problem-solving shaped his career. He talks about: - How Kerbo Charge enables safe, cost-effective home EV charging without a driveway - Navigating legislation and council approvals to make cross-pavement charging a reality - The importance of timing, failure, and resilience in building successful startups - Taking lessons from drama and storytelling to communicate complex ideas clearly - Why the goal is to make game-changing technology feel effortless and everyday Along the way, Ben reflects on his first business failures, the lessons in persistence and humility, and how to create solutions that become invisible parts of daily life. ## Ben Whittaker (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjdw/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjdw/) ## Kerbo Charge [https://www.kerbocharge.com](https://www.kerbocharge.com)

Published 11 Mar 2026
In this episode, hosts Paul and John welcome Neil Hughes, Head of Business Development at Utility Line, to explore the complex but critical world of powering the UK’s transition to electric vehicles. Neil shares insights from over 25 years in the electrical industry, including his work behind the scenes on the “grey boxes” and infrastructure that make EV charging possible. He discusses how Utility Line, an independent connection provider, is helping businesses simplify grid connections, overcome red tape, and prepare for the electrification of fleets, trucks, buses, and industrial sites. The conversation ranges from: - Real-world challenges of connecting EV infrastructure to the grid - Using battery storage to bridge power gaps and future-proof sites - Balancing sustainability with wildlife and land protection during development - The importance of trust, relationships, and determination in driving change And yes, there’s also talk of Wrexham’s Hollywood moment, Neil’s personal goal to complete a 10k, and a wish to cut through the red tape holding back the UK’s net zero ambitions. If you’re curious about how EV charging infrastructure really gets powered—and the people working to make it happen—this episode is packed with practical insight and candid conversation. [Utility Line | Specialist Independent Connection Provider](https://www.utilityline.co.uk/) [Adler & Allan | Environmental Risk Reduction](https://www.adlerandallan.co.uk/)

Published 04 Mar 2026
Graeme Cooper returns to The EV Café Takeaway for a conversation that spans life, energy, and the future of zero-emission transport, this time from his new home in snowy Massachusetts. Once the very first guest on the podcast, Graeme reflects on leaving National Grid, navigating a transatlantic relocation, and adapting to the realities of the US energy and EV market. From the rise of “greenhushing” to the challenges of electrifying vast American fleets, Graeme pulls apart the complex relationship between federal and state policies, the unintended consequences of political decisions, and why pragmatism and emotional resilience matter in the energy transition. Along the way, he shares candid insights about personal change, building a sustainable home, and why the human side of the net-zero story can’t be ignored. Topics include: * Living and working in the US under shifting political winds * How state vs. federal rules drive (or hinder) EV adoption * The concept of **greenhushing** and why clean energy is happening quietly * Pragmatism in large-scale energy projects, from data centres to EV fleets * Personal lessons in resilience, adaptability, and finding “home” abroad A thoughtful look at the zero-emission journey from both sides of the Atlantic—delivered in true Graeme Cooper style. ## Graeme Cooper (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecooper/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecooper/)

Published 25 Feb 2026
This week on The EV Café Takeaway, we welcome Stuart Humphrey – a passionate electric vehicle advocate, wellbeing champion, and winner of the EV Café Christmas Cracker Wellbeing Award. Stuart shares how a simple financial decision to lease a Nissan Leaf in 2014 sparked 12 years of EV driving and inspired him to become a vocal supporter of accessibility and inclusion in the EV community. In this episode, he talks about: - Making EVs fun, simple, and affordable for everyone - Tackling misinformation and building confidence for new drivers - The link between mental health, neurodiversity, and community advocacy - Why inclusivity – from women in EVs to young drivers – is key to mass adoption - Practical insights on home solar, battery storage, and living with EVs day-to-day From sharing strategies for managing difficult days to highlighting gaps in public charging, Stuart brings a refreshingly honest and practical perspective on driving change in the zero-emission space. Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn, and explore more conversations at evcafe.org or on Apple and Spotify. ## Stuart Humphrey (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-humphrey-974205166/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-humphrey-974205166/)

Published 18 Feb 2026
It’s the award‑winning Ben Travis! A true champion of customer experience and electric vehicle education. Ben joined the automotive industry in 2019 and became a trusted EV specialist, guiding customers through the transition from internal combustion to electric. During the first lockdown, while many settled into furlough, Ben immersed himself in EV knowledge—devouring YouTube videos, manuals, and guides—to ensure he could deliver confident, first‑hand advice to customers. **Ben opens up about:** - His passion for customer‑first service and why empathy is at the heart of electrification. - Building confidence in EV adoption through real‑world experience and storytelling. - How LinkedIn and YouTube gave him a platform to educate and inspire. - Staying grounded in the face of recognition, negativity, and life’s challenges. - His personal “magic wand” wish for a better world. ## Ben Traviss (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentraviss/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentraviss/) ## LLoyd Motor Group [https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com](https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com) ## Ben’s YouTube Channel (Electric Ben) [https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBenYT](https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBenYT)

Published 11 Feb 2026
Anne Snelson (Lead With Sustainability) shares her journey from government statistician and AA policy researcher to senior marketing roles at Vodafone and RingGo, before finding her purpose in sustainability. She takes us through her work championing emissions-based parking, her role in influencing corporate sustainability at companies like BMW and Nissan, and how her Carbon Literacy Project training is sparking meaningful change across the automotive and built environment sectors. Anne opens up about: * Her personal motivations for tackling climate change and the influence of her parents, a statistician father and ecologist mother. * The emotional moments from delivering her sustainability training, and the ripple effects it creates in corporate and personal lives alike. * The importance of circularity, AI-driven innovation, and co-benefits in building a zero-emission future. * Life lessons in resilience, building a purpose-led business in her 50s, and finding joy in making a difference. Oh, and there’s talk of Climate Change Countdown, EV road trips to Italy, and why cheap renewable electricity is top of Anne’s “magic wand” wish list. ## Lead With Sustainability <https://leadwithsustainability.co.uk> EV Cafe listeners can get a **20% discount** off the full price by entering promo code EVC2026 at the [Ticket Tailor checkout](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/leadwithsustainability) ## Anne Snelson <https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-snelson-bsc-dipm-mba-93a6701/>

Published 04 Feb 2026
This week we have the multi-talented Jess Shanahan! Jess discusses running a Porsche race team and teaching motorsport sponsorship to becoming a key figure in the EV and e-mobility space—creating content, hosting events, and speaking passionately about mental health and neurodiversity. What’s discussed: - Jess’s path through motorsport and e-mobility, and how she built her own thriving businesses, including Jet Social and Charge Happy. - Her mental health and ADHD journey, and how embracing her authentic self has shaped her career and creativity. - The power of vulnerability, self-expression, and collaboration, both in personal life and in driving the EV sector forward. - Creative passions beyond EVs, including her historical romance novel, poetry, and the dream of making space for more writing. This conversation goes beyond electric vehicles to the people who are shaping a zero-emission future, showing how authenticity and emotional safety can drive meaningful impact. ## Jess Shanahan (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessshanahan/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessshanahan/) ## Charge Happy [https://www.chargehappy.co.uk](https://www.chargehappy.co.uk) ## Jet Social [https://www.jetsocial.co.uk](https://www.jetsocial.co.uk) ## Bonus [The Picture Paul was referencing](https://mswmpwdwfsebytqupoit.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/media/1/1770024536046-69b3b40e-889a-4f9f-ad86-dc7b61f1316c.png)