Discover EV Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Melanie, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Zapmap, to explore how the UK’s leading EV charging map has helped shape the electric vehicle revolution over the past decade. From the company’s origins in 2014 to its position today as a trusted source of EV charging data, Melanie shares insights into the growth of the UK’s public charging network, the evolution of charger technology, and how Zapmap is helping drivers plan journeys with confidence through live availability data, route planning tools and integrated payment solutions. We also discuss the benefits of Zapmap Premium, the challenges of maintaining accurate charge point information across multiple networks and the trends driving growth in rapid and ultra-rapid charging infrastructure.The conversation also examines the bigger picture for electric vehicle adoption in the UK, including charger anxiety, regional disparities in charging provision, the role of local councils and government policy and whether the country is on track to meet its zero-emission transport ambitions. Drawing on Zapmap’s extensive data and annual EV driver surveys, Melanie reveals what motorists are most satisfied with, where frustrations remain and what needs to happen to create a more seamless, affordable and standardised EV charging experience. Whether you're considering your first electric car, already own an EV, or work within the transport and energy sectors, this episode offers valuable insight into the future of EV charging infrastructure and sustainable mobility in the UK.

In this episode, we sit down with Kieran O’Regan from About:Energy to explore how advanced battery modelling is transforming the future of electrification. We dive into the company’s mission to solve key battery development challenges using white-box battery modelling, and unpack how their powerful platform, The Voltt, enables engineers to accelerate battery design, improve performance and reduce development time by up to 70 per cent. From real-world applications in high-performance automotive projects to partnerships with major OEMs, this conversation covers the role of data-driven battery simulation in electric vehicles, energy storage, aerospace and beyond. We also discuss industry-wide challenges such as battery engineering skill shortages, evolving chemistries like solid-state and sodium-ion, and how digital twin technology is shaping the future of sustainable battery innovation, lifecycle analysis and recycling. Perfect for anyone interested in battery technology, EV innovation, and the future of clean energy systems.

In this episode of the Discover EV podcast, we sit down with Michael Blom, Head of Product at Kaluza, to explore how cutting-edge smart charging technology is transforming the electric vehicle landscape. We dive into Kaluza’s groundbreaking collaboration with the BMW Group, enabling real-time EV charging optimisation that aligns with the cheapest and cleanest energy on the grid. From rapid API integration and “set-and-forget” charging experiences to the future of vehicle-to-grid innovation and flexible energy systems, this episode unpacks how intelligent EV charging can reduce costs, support renewable energy and accelerate mass adoption. Whether you're an EV driver, energy professional, or simply curious about the future of sustainable transport, this conversation offers valuable insights into the evolving world of smart charging, grid flexibility and the role of OEM partnerships in building a cleaner, more efficient energy ecosystem.

In this episode of the Discover EVs podcast, automotive experts and Car S.O.S. presenters tackle the hotly debated topic of electric vehicle (EV) conversions for classic cars. Following their electrified 1978 MGB GT Roadster project from Season 10, Episode 10, they explore whether converting a classic enhances its appeal—or strips away its soul. The discussion dives into the pros and cons of EV conversions, from improved performance and sustainability to the potential loss of nostalgia and the driving feel that defines classic motoring. The team also unpacks wider industry issues, including the challenges of insuring EVs and the growing influx of new electric car brands from China. Whether you’re passionate about electric vehicles, classic car restoration, or the future of the automotive world, this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of the Discover EV Podcast we sit down with renewable energy expert and compliance specialist Fridtjof Falkgaard Riege to explore the future of electric vehicles, bidirectional charging, and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. With a background in sustainable energy engineering and a key role at Easee, Fridtjof breaks down how V2G and Vehicle-to-X (V2X) could transform EVs into powerful energy assets - cutting electricity costs, stabilising the grid, accelerating renewable energy integration, and even supporting crisis resilience. From smart charging and regulatory challenges across Europe to real-world projects like Polestar’s PAVE initiative in Sweden, this deep-dive covers everything EV owners, fleet operators, and energy enthusiasts need to know about the next revolution in clean transport. If you're curious about how electric cars can power homes, support wind and solar, and reshape the UK and European energy markets, this is a must-listen episode.

Discover EV’s latest podcast dives deep into Shell’s ambitious Triple 10 Challenge, exploring how first-principles engineering could redefine the future of electric vehicles. Joined by Shell Lubricants’ energy application testing expert Toby, the episode unpacks how lightweight design, ultra-efficient aerodynamics and breakthrough immersion thermal fluids could enable 10-minute charging, 10 km per kWh efficiency and a sub-10-ton CO₂ lifecycle footprint. From tackling range anxiety and reducing reliance on oversized batteries to easing pressure on charging infrastructure and the grid, this conversation reveals why smaller, smarter, fast-charging EVs may be the key to sustainable mass-market electric mobility by 2030.

In this episode, Philippe Krief, CEO of Alpine Cars, takes us inside the brand's bold electric transformation, with plans for six new EVs by 2030 and a target of €8bn in annual revenue. We explore how Alpine is preserving its racing DNA and trademark lightness in an electric era, the engineering challenges of performance EVs, and how Formula 1, simulation and software are shaping the brand’s future.We also discuss the launch of the A290, Alpine’s global expansion plans, regional EV challenges, the role of partnerships, and where hydrogen and automotive technology may fit in next.A fascinating deep dive into how one of performance motoring’s most iconic brands is redefining itself for an electric future.

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Christian Marston, founder of Altilium, the UK clean technology company pioneering a circular economy for electric vehicle batteries. We explore how Altilium is transforming end-of-life EV batteries into a domestic source of critical minerals, helping to decarbonise automotive supply chains and strengthen the UK’s energy security. Christian shares his journey into battery innovation, explains why cathode active materials (CAM) are a critical missing link in the UK and European EV supply chain, and discusses Altilium’s landmark achievement as the only UK producer of CAM. We also dive into the company’s recent breakthroughs, including the production of the UK’s first EV battery cells made from recycled materials at UKBIC. The conversation covers major government support and global investment, partnerships with OEMs such as JLR and Nissan, and Altilium’s strategic locations in the South West and Teesside. We unpack the realities of EV battery recycling, challenge common myths, examine the UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy, and discuss what’s still needed to scale a truly circular battery economy. Finally, Christian looks ahead to what success could mean over the next five years – for Altilium, for clean transport, and for building a resilient, low-carbon battery supply chain in the UK and Europe.