Drivetime

In this gear change episode of Drivetime, Jacqui is joined once again by Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the SMMT, to cut through the noise around electrification and tackle the biggest misconceptions facing the UK automotive industry.Building on the main episode, this shorter conversation focuses on mythbusting the ZEV mandate, the real cost of delivery, and the risks of pushing faster than the market or infrastructure can realistically support.Mike sets out why EV growth figures don’t tell the full story, how incentives are masking underlying demand, and why getting the pace of change wrong could put UK manufacturing and regional communities at risk.Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.

In this episode of Drivetime, Jacqui is joined by Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), to unpack the biggest forces reshaping the UK automotive industry. Drawing on more than a decade at the helm of the SMMT, Mike shares a candid view on how OEMs, policymakers and retailers are navigating electrification, global trade pressures and shifting consumer confidence and why the transition to net zero is proving more complex than firstanticipated.From the realities of the ZEV mandate and charging infrastructure, to affordability, residual values and total cost of ownership, this conversation cuts through the headlines to explore what’s really happening on the ground and what needs to change next.Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.

In this Gear Change episode of Drivetime, Jacqui reconnects with Mona Eghanian for a fast‑paced, myth‑busting conversation that cuts straight to the heart of automotive and mobility innovation. Building on the main episode, Mona breaks down how ideas actually move from early concept to real‑world deployment, why innovation can’t happen in isolation, and what people inside — and outside — the automotive industry often get wrong about “auto tech”. From regional innovation hubs and real‑world pilots, to AI‑driven mobility and emotionally intelligent vehicles, this episode offers practical insight into how innovation ecosystems really work — and how individuals and companies can get involved. Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.  

In this episode of Drivetime, Jacqui is joined by Mona Eghanian, Deputy Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (VIN), to unpack how the province is turning big ideas into commercially viable technologies – and why innovation doesn’t stop at the vehicle itself. Ontario has quietly become one of the most important places in the world for automotive and mobility innovation – and VIN is at the centre of it. From bridging the infamous “valley of death” between R&D and commercialisation, to creating real‑world testbeds across highways, borders and transit systems, Mona explains how VIN is helping startups, researchers and OEMs work together to build the car — and mobility system — of the future. This conversation spans EVs, AI, charging infrastructure, talent development, global partnerships and public transport, offering a rare look behind the scenes of a government‑backed innovation model that’s already delivering real economic impact. Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.  

In this week’s gear change episode, Jacqui is joined once again by Niel Hiscox, President of Universus Media and Clarify Group. Building on insights from the main episode, this shorter conversation distils the big takeaways, digs into industry myths, and explores what’s ahead for Canadian automotive retail. Niel is one of the most influential voices in the Canadian automotive landscape. Don’t miss the insights he shares in this conversation.Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.

In this episode of Drivetime, Jacqui sits down with Niel Hiscox, President of Universus Media and Clarify Group, and one of the most influential voices in the Canadian automotive landscape. Recorded in Toronto during a packed week for the industry, this conversation digs into the big forces shaping retail, technology, consumer behaviour, and the future of the North American market.Talking points include:. The road ahead – what Canadian retailers are telling us. AI in automotive retail – hype vs reality. The rapid surge of Chinese entrants. Political shifts and cross-border trade. Why auto shows are back and more influential than ever and more.If you're navigating tech transformation, preparing for new OEM entrants, or trying to understand the future of automotive retail in Canada and beyond, this conversation delivers clarity, insight and a healthy dose of realism.Drivetime is the global auto tech podcast powered by Keyloop.