EV Café Takeaway

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/Charge Happyhttps://www.chargehappy.co.ukJet Socialhttps://www.jetsocial.co.uk

Richard Guy, Fleet & Plant Director at Amey uncovers how he led one of the UK’s largest strategic government suppliers on a remarkable fleet electrification journey.  Amey operates 4,000 vehicles—cars, vans, and trucks—across highways, rail, facilities management, and consultancy services. Richard shares how his team successfully transitioned from just 5% EV adoption to over 90% in the company car fleet—three years ahead of target—all without mandating EVs - what a Guy.Discover how Richard:   Tackled driver objections with a behavioural, not just financial, approach   Removed key barriers like home charger costs, mileage reimbursement fears, and lease timing   Built trust and engagement through hands-on driver support and ambassador networks   Navigates the “clay layer” of operational managers in the complex world of electric vans and trucks   Balances decarbonisation ambitions with operational realities, mental health, and neurodiverse communication needs   We also dive into the challenges of commercial vehicle electrification, temporary charging solutions, the future of HGV decarbonisation, and why Richard’s magic wand wish is to change the mainstream media narrative on EVs.  Richard Guy (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-guy-6195189aAmeyhttps://www.amey.co.uk

Matt Cleevely, the driving force behind Cleevely Motors and Cleevely Electric Vehicles—and an industry personality—joins JC & Paul this week. Matt shares how a family business founded in 1962 has transformed into a hub for EV repair, sales, and advocacy, all while staying rooted in the values passed down from his grandfather. He talks openly about:   Building a multi-generational, family-led business in the age of electrification   Overcoming industry resistance and championing EV adoption   The challenges and rewards of running three intertwined businesses   His personal journey with mental health, and how hobbies like golf and strong family support helped him overcome depression   Why kindness, honesty, and community are at the heart of everything he does   Matt Cleevely (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cleevely-aae-mimi-2792b367/Cleevely Electric Vehicleshttps://www.cleevelyev.co.ukHEVRA (Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Alliance)https://hevra.org.uk

Paul and JC sit down with Caroline Watson, Director of Transport at C40 Cities—a global network of mayors leading the charge toward a zero-emission future.  Caroline shares her incredible journey in the world of transport decarbonisation, from her early days at the Energy Saving Trust to spearheading international initiatives that are transforming city mobility. She reveals how C40 supports nearly 100 cities worldwide in tackling climate change, rolling out zero-emission buses and freight corridors, and creating healthier, more liveable urban spaces.  Highlights include:   The story behind C40 Cities and its evolution from London’s climate initiative to a global force.   How cities like Shenzhen, Oslo, and Amsterdam are setting the standard for electrification and clean transport.   Groundbreaking projects like the ZEBRA initiative in Latin America and electric freight corridors in India.   The power of city policies, heat-mapping for EV infrastructure, and the vital role of public transport in reducing congestion and emissions.   Caroline’s personal passion for climate action, her vision for reaching the 1.5°C target, and why tangible solutions like electric vehicles keep her motivated.   Caroline Watson (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-watson-53609125C40 Citieshttps://www.c40.org

Kicking off 2026, Paul and John are joined by one of the true legends of the UK fleet and rental industry – Tim Bailey. Fresh into retirement after a 37-year career spanning Alamo, National Car & Rental, Europcar, Redde, and Northgate. Tim shares his fascinating journey from petrol pump attendant in Dublin to leading fleets, shaping policy, and guiding the UK’s transition to electric vehicles—particularly vans.  We cover:   Falling into fleet: how Tim accidentally discovered his lifelong career.   The EV van challenge: why decarbonising the commercial vehicle sector is so critical, and what must change.   Hall of Fame moments: how it felt to be recognised by Fleet News and the BVRLA for outstanding contribution.   Leadership lessons & life perspective: from navigating 9/11 and business administration in Europe to balancing family and career.   A wish for the industry: Tim’s EV Café Magic Wand moment for the future of zero-emission transport.   Tim Bailey (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-bailey-9454502/

In this special episode, we take a look back at all the EV Café Takeaway guests of 2025. We hand the wand (or seashell, block of wood, or lightning bolt…) to pioneers, collaborators, and innovators across the electric vehicle and sustainability world, asking them what their one wish would be…

This week Paul and John welcome Lyndsey Hetherington, EV Charging Specialist at Drax Electric Vehicles. Lyndsey shares her unique journey from starting out in van and truck marketing to becoming a key player in helping fleets transition to zero-emission transport. She reflects on her formative years at Elmtronics, the challenges of building trust in a new industry, and how she balances career ambitions with the joys and chaos of family life.   Discover:   The North East’s pioneering role as the home of EVs in the UK.   How real relationships, trust, and open advice can drive fleet electrification.   Insights into Drax’s renewable energy mission and the truth behind the headlines.   Lyndsey’s personal journey of growth and embracing change.   Why her magic wand wish is simply for a world filled with positive vibes and less negativity around EVs! Lyndsey Hetherington (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndseyhetherington/ Drax Electric Vehicles (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/drax-electric-vehicles/?originalSubdomain=uk

This week, the EV Café team goes live at Fleet Mobility Live with a very special guest: Dale Eynon, former Head of Fleet at the Environment Agency and now a semi-retired consultant, passionate environmentalist, and mentor to the next generation of fleet leaders.   With over 20 years’ experience managing 10,000+ diverse assets—from cars, vans and HGVs to marine vessels and heavy plant—Dale shares his journey from incident management into fleet, and the steep learning curve that followed. He reflects on:   The evolution of electric fleets – from early Nissan Leafs and Mitsubishi i-MiEvs to today’s 500-mile EVs   Winning hearts and minds to accelerate EV adoption and break down early myths   The van and 4x4 challenge – why rural operations, towing, and depot-free fleets remain one of the final frontiers for electrification   The power of BIK incentives and TCO modelling in driving fleet transitions   Culture, people, and resilience – key lessons from leading through change   Dale also opens up about his “semi-early retirement”, his love of low-carbon travel, and his commitment to supporting the next generation of fleet professionals through the AFP and industry mentorship.   If you want insight from someone who’s seen it all in the shift to zero emissions—and still believes the best is yet to come—this episode is for you.   Dale Eynon (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-eynon-252a644

This week, Paul and Sara (a.k.a. The Sazmanator) sit down with Rebecca Denyer, co-founder of Sebring Works, the innovative British company hand-building retro-inspired electric sports cars! Rebecca shares the remarkable journey from a classic car enthusiast and accountant to an EV pioneer, creating stunning 1950s and 60s-style electric cars that combine nostalgia, performance, and sustainability. Discover how Sebring Works:   Builds handcrafted, zero-emission sports cars on their own EV skateboard platform   Balances classic car charm with modern reliability and 240+ miles of real-world range   Champions collaboration in the low-volume automotive sector   Explores sustainable manufacturing, including plant-fibre car bodies grown locally   Brings joy to drivers with what they now call the “Sebring Smile”   This episode is all about innovation, resilience, and the power of pursuing your passion responsibly—while leaving a legacy for the next generation.  If you’ve ever dreamed of a classic car without the oil leaks, breakdowns, or guilt, this one will make you smile.   Rebecca Denyer (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-denyer/?originalSubdomain=uk Sebring Works https://www.sebring-design.com

In another live-recorded episode, Paul and John sit down with Sarah Gray, Head of Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy & Development at Dawsongroup Vans.   We talk about: - Falling into the automotive world and never looking back   - Overcoming redundancy and imposter syndrome with the help of a business coach   - Supporting fleets on their transition to electric vans   - The real challenges of productivity and charging infrastructure for commercial EVs   - Dawson Group’s bold investment in renewable energy, solar canopies, and large-scale charging solutions   - The importance of confidence-building, collaboration, and thinking outside the box   Sarah’s passion for helping fleets decarbonise, coupled with her infectious energy, makes this a must-listen for anyone navigating the road to zero-emission transport. And yes, the episode wraps with the EV Café magic wand tradition (or is it a 2 by 4?) ### Sarah Gray (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-gray-aa62a92/ ### Dawnsongroup Vans https://www.dawsongroupvans.co.uk

From lasers bound for Mars to leading the charge in EV infrastructure, Zaptec’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. In this week’s episode, Paul and Sarah sit down with Michael Braybrook to explore how a company that once supported NASA pivoted to become one of the few profitable EV hardware manufacturers in the world.   Michael shares:   The fascinating origin story of Zaptec, from space technology to smart EV charging.   Insights on V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) and how it can unlock free driving and a smarter energy ecosystem.   The launch of the Zaptec Go 2, a future-proof, beautifully designed home charger that’s V2G-ready, solar-integrated, and built for long-term reliability.   His leadership philosophy, rooted in empathy, resilience, and creative problem-solving, and how he’s building a passionate UK team to accelerate the zero-emission future.   If you’ve ever wondered how EV charging fits into a cleaner, more cost-effective energy system—or how a company can make sustainability both practical and profitable—this episode is packed with value.   Michael Braybrook (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/braybrook/ Zaptec UK https://www.zaptec.com

In this special live-recorded episode of The EV Café Takeaway, we sit down with Nigel Allsop, Fleet Account Director for BT, who manages one of the UK’s largest and most complex fleets—over 36,000 vehicles and 5,000 company cars. Nigel shares the inside story of BT and Openreach’s journey to net zero by 2030, including how they’ve already electrified 5,500 vehicles, predominantly vans, and the strategy behind prioritising commercial EVs first.   Join us as we explore:   The unique challenges of electrifying a diverse fleet of 72 vehicle types with 172 racking configurations.   How data, telematics, and behavioural change are key to tackling range anxiety and winning hearts and minds internally.   The role of collaboration across the industry and why partnerships are critical for infrastructure and operational success.   Nigel’s personal reflections on leadership, resilience, and staying inquisitive when tackling one of the toughest transitions in fleet management.   From EV testing with sandbags to navigating rural charging challenges, and from the politics of net zero to the human side of managing change, this episode is packed with insights for fleet managers, sustainability leaders, and anyone invested in the future of zero-emission transport. Nigel Allsop (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigel-allsop-a52509a1/

Did you know that 1 in 4 EVs currently bought are for Motability Operations? Neither did Paul Kirby! Join Paul and John (aka W.C.) as they sit down with Lisa Thomas—Chief Marketing Officer at Motability Operations—the organisation behind the life‑changing Motability Scheme.   Lisa shares the incredible story of how Motability Operations supports over 800,000 drivers across the UK, providing affordable, accessible vehicles that unlock freedom, independence, and opportunity. From drive‑from‑wheelchair vans to pioneering EV adoption for disabled users, Lisa explains how the scheme is transforming lives while driving the transition to zero‑emission transport.   Topics include:   The life‑changing impact of the Motability Scheme for people and their families   Overcoming public misconceptions and addressing the tiny fraction of misuse cases   Leading the EV transition with 100,000+ electric vehicles already on fleet   Innovative accessibility projects like cross‑pavement charging and the Evita concept vehicle   Lisa’s personal journey through creative leadership, marketing, and purpose‑driven work   Why empathy, partnership, and community are at the heart of Motability Operations   From emotional customer stories to future‑facing EV strategy, this conversation shines a light on one of the UK’s most impactful and forward‑thinking organisations.   Lisa Thomas https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-thomas-2858598 Motability Operations https://www.mo.co.uk (Discussed) eVITA concept vehicle https://callumdesigns.com/motability-evita (Discussed) Motability Scheme Live https://motabilityschemelive.co.uk (Discussed) Kia PB5 https://www.kia.com/uk/pbv/premiere/

In this special live-recorded episode of The EV Café Takeaway, Paul and John sit down at Fleet & Mobility Live with Stuart Murphy, Head of Fleet Transformation at Royal Mail, to explore how one of the UK’s most iconic organisations is delivering a cleaner, zero-emission future.   Stuart shares his journey from growing up in the Royal Mail family to leading one of the largest electric fleet transformations in the country. With over 8,000 electric vans already on the road – and 50,000 vehicles to electrify – his team is proving that EVs aren’t just cleaner, they’re more reliable and cost-effective for the business, too. In this episode, you’ll discover:   How Royal Mail is tackling the complex challenge of electrifying a diverse fleet that delivers to 32 million addresses – from city streets to remote islands.   Why EVs outperform diesel for stop-start postal routes and dramatically reduce maintenance headaches.   Stuart’s people-first approach to leading 26,000 drivers through change, turning sceptics into enthusiastic EV advocates.   The organisation’s first steps into electric HGVs, depot charging, and the potential for future charger sharing.   Personal insights into Stuart’s leadership, resilience, and what drives him to care so deeply about the mission.   Whether you’re running a fleet, exploring electrification, or just love hearing from passionate leaders shaping a sustainable future, this episode is packed with candid stories and practical lessons.   🎧 Listen now to hear how Royal Mail is delivering zero-emission innovation, one red vehicle at a time.   Stuart Murphy https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-murphy-4400a547

Chris Demetriou, (Assistant Director of Corporate Fleet, Transport and Accessible Community Transport at Islington Borough Council) has spent over 24 years in the public sector and now leads one of the UK’s most ambitious local authority fleet decarbonisation programmes.   Chris shares his journey from a two-week temp job to becoming a driving force behind Islington’s transition to electric vehicles, with over 140 EVs in operation and innovative vehicle-to-grid (V2G) trials underway. He opens up about the challenges of electrifying large municipal fleets, from refuse trucks to community transport buses, and why collaboration and infrastructure sharing between councils is critical for resilience and improved air quality.   Beyond the technology, Chris speaks passionately about air quality, mental health, and resilience, drawing on his own experiences with asthma, running 11 miles to work daily, and leading by example in the fight for a zero-emission future.   If you want to hear how a local authority can become a genuine pioneer in fleet electrification, and why bold leadership, persistence, and innovation matter, this episode is for you.   🎧 Listen now to discover:   The realities of transitioning a 500+ vehicle municipal fleet to electric   Lessons learned from being a “guinea pig” for first- and second-gen EVs   How V2G and microgrids could transform fleet operations   The personal drive and resilience behind public sector innovation   Chris Demetriou https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-demetriou-6a716a5a/?originalSubdomain=uk

This week, Phil Morris - Key Account Manager at Iveco on the ever-evolving world of zero and low-emission commercial vehicles.   Phil shares his journey from working in his family’s butcher shop to becoming a passionate advocate for sustainable transport solutions. He takes us behind the scenes of heavy vehicle sales, explaining the jargon of six-by-fours, fifth wheels, and CNG. We dive deep into the future of decarbonising fleets, discussing the roles of battery-electric trucks, hydrogen, CNG/LNG, and HVO, and how operators can make a real difference now—not just in 2035 or 2040.   Highlights: Demystifying truck jargon like 6x2s, 6x4s, and fifth wheels   The real-world case for CNG, HVO, and EV trucks in logistics   Why fleet operators need solutions tailored to their mission   How Iveco is driving change without compromising customer operations   Phil’s personal mission to make a lasting difference Philip Morris (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillip-morris-30173463/

We dive into a conversation with Paul Hollick, Chairman of the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) and CEO of Lightfoot.   Paul shares his journey from a young, unconfident teenager in the New Forest to a dynamic leader driving the UK fleet industry toward a zero-emission future. He opens up about:   Balancing his dual roles at AFP and Lightfoot   His passion for people, collaboration, and doing good   How driver behaviour and education are at the heart of decarbonising fleets   The importance of training, networking, and creating future-ready fleet apprenticeships   The challenges of EV adoption, including downtime and charging infrastructure   From his candid reflections on leadership and family life to his vision for the fleet industry’s apprenticeship programme, Paul’s story is packed with wisdom and purpose.   If you’re in the fleet, EV, or sustainability space—or just love hearing from people making a real impact—this episode will leave you informed and inspired.   Paul Hollick https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhollick/ Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) https://www.theafp.co.uk Lightfoot https://www.lightfoot.co.uk

In this inspiring episode of The EV Café Takeaway Podcast, we welcome Michelle Breffitt, co-founder of Women Drive Electric, the thriving community dedicated to helping women confidently make the switch to electric vehicles.   Michelle shares her journey from starting in the automotive world as a teenager to becoming a leading advocate for inclusivity, EV adoption, and authentic conversations around driving electric. She opens up about:   Building a 5,000+ strong community of women / female-identifying people How unconscious bias and intimidating dealership environments still affect women’s car-buying experiences.   The types of real-world EV questions women ask—from charging solutions and range to family-friendly road-trip tips.   Why creating safe, supportive spaces leads to better engagement and industry change.   Join hosts Paul and John for a conversation that is equal parts insightful, funny, and motivating—spotlighting how collaboration between communities, allies, and the wider EV industry can accelerate positive change.   Michelle Breffitt https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-breffitt-automotive-professional/ George Thurman https://www.linkedin.com/in/wde⚡%EF%B8%8F/ Woman Drive Electric website https://womendriveelectric.co.uk Michelle’s book recommendations: The Authority Gap https://www.amazon.co.uk/Authority-Gap-women-still-seriously/dp/1784165883/ Invisible Women https://www.amazon.co.uk/Invisible-Women-Exposing-World-Designed/dp/1784706280/ref=asc_df_1784706280 If you want to see the automotive world become more inclusive, informed, and electrified—this episode is for you.  

Paul and John sit down with the unstoppable Evelyn Tourish, Customer Experience Director at Europcar Mobility Group UK. With 32 years at Europcar, Evelyn shares her journey from rental sales agent to leading the company’s customer experience and spearheading the electrification of their UK network. Her passion for EV adoption, customer care, and building resilient teams shines through as she talks about:   How Europcar is driving the transition to electric vehicles 🚗⚡   Creating a frictionless, digital-first customer experience   The resilience and tenacity needed to thrive through industry challenges   Winning two consecutive Gold Awards for customer experience innovation   Why caring for customers and colleagues is at the heart of everything she does   Evelyn Tourish https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelyn-tourish-16929824/ Europcar Mobility Group https://www.europcar-mobility-group.com

Paul and John sit down with Stephen Briers, the highly respected Group Editor for Fleet News, AM, and Rail at Bauer Media. Stephen brings a wealth of insight into journalism, industry objectivity, and the fast-moving world of fleet electrification.   We Explore Stephen’s journey from humble beginnings to leading Bauer’s B2B automotive titles.   The responsibility of journalism in a rapidly changing transport landscape.   How to balance objectivity with passion when covering EVs and decarbonisation.   Behind-the-scenes of Fleet Mobility Live and why it’s one of the industry’s must-attend events.   The future of fleet electrification, government clarity, and why van adoption is the next big frontier.   Plus, Stephen takes on the EV Café Magic Wand Challenge, wishing for the breakthroughs our industry needs most (and a little help for Bristol Rovers along the way!).   If you’re passionate about sustainable transport, fleet management, and the people shaping the EV revolution, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and a few laughs.   🎧 Listen now for industry wisdom, magic wand wishes, and why Fleet News’ newsletter is a must-read for every fleet professional.   Stephen Briers https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-briers-b1986415/ Fleet News https://www.fleetnews.co.uk Bauer Media Group https://www.bauermedia.com Fleet & Mobility Live https://fleetandmobilitylive.com