The Urban EV Podcast

Scaling EV charging infrastructure is no easy task. But Marina Hod, Managing Director Americas at Wevo Energy, appears to be ready for the challenge ahead. In this episode of The Urban EV Podcast, we discuss the role of AI in optimizing energy use, the importance of smart charging systems, and the future of EV charging technology. Marina shares insights on real-world successes, the integration of EV charging with existing infrastructure, and the significance of distributed energy resources in the evolving energy landscape. From the challenges of grid stability to the promise of a frictionless EV charging experience, this episode is a roadmap to the future of mobility. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:59 Marina Hod's Background and Wevo Energy 02:44 Current Challenges in EV Charging and Grid Stability 05:48 The Role of AI in EV Charging 07:37 Understanding Wevo Energy's Solutions 08:33 Real-World Success Stories of EV Charging 09:45 Integrating EV Charging with Existing Infrastructure 11:19 Benefits of Smart Charging Systems 14:24 Exploring Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology 16:26 Future of EV Charging: Predictions for the Next Decade 20:10 Dispelling Myths About EV Charging 23:50 The Importance of Distributed Energy Resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Public EV charger utilization is a broken model and Madhav Ayyagari and David Alspaugh, co-founders of Inductive Robotics, may have figured out a way to fix it through autonomous EV charging. Our conversation explores the founders' journeys, the necessity of their solution in the face of growing EV adoption and inadequate infrastructure, and the technical workings of their robotic charging system. They delve into the challenges of fundraising in the hardware space, the importance of vehicle compatibility, and the future roadmap for their technology, emphasizing the potential for scalability and improved user experience in EV charging. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Autonomous EV Charging 01:05 Founders' Journey and Vision 03:21 The Necessity of Autonomous Charging Solutions 08:14 How the Charging System Works 10:18 Technical Specifications and Charging Rates 12:18 Utilization and ROI in EV Charging 15:33 The Smart Adapter Explained 18:11 Challenges in Vehicle Compatibility 21:11 Robotic Navigation and Charging Process 27:15 Future Applications and Scalability 32:38 Fundraising Journey and Challenges 39:16 Roadmap for the Future Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kia EV9 owner and returning guest, Todd George joins the show to talk about the transition from the 2024 model with a CCS port to the 2026 model that now comes standard with a NACS port. One of the first challenges he faced was charging at a Tesla Supercharger and reveals why. The conversation also touches on quality control issues, community feedback, and the future of the Kia EV9, including upcoming features and improvements. Todd shares his recommendations for potential buyers and reflects on the overall experience of owning an EV. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:58 Todd's Journey to EV Ownership 05:17 Day-to-Day Experience with the EV9 08:48 Transitioning from CCS to NACS port 16:42 Charging Experiences and Challenges 21:50 Comparing the 2024 and 2026 Models 28:16 Software Updates and Connectivity in EVs 30:09 Battery Issues and Lemon Law Returns 31:07 Key Fob Features and Subscriptions 31:54 Performance and Boost Features 33:47 Vibration Issues at High Speeds 37:42 Customer Service and Lemon Law Experiences 41:41 Overall Impressions of the EV9 43:23 Future of CarPlay and Navigation Systems Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Electric vehicle expert and sales trainer, Jeremie Bernardin joins The Urban EV Podcast to share his first mover journey into the EV world, the importance of bridging the training gap for dealerships, and the emotional aspects of purchasing electric vehicles. The conversation also covers the challenges faced by dealerships in adapting to the EV market, and the significance of the customer's journey that starts with the showroom salesperson – the front lines of prospective EV driver education. We also cover the second life of EV batteries and the future of the dealership and service models. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 05:48 Emotional Aspects of Buying an EV 12:54 The Challenges of Selling EVs in Dealerships 20:03 The Future of EV Dealerships and Service Models 25:52 The Financial Landscape of Electric Vehicles 32:22 Second Life of EV Batteries 38:45 Regional Differences in EV Adoption You can find Jeremie Bernardin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbernardin/ Integrated Automotive: http://www.integratedauto.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Kia is gone as my new Tesla with Full Self Driving (FSD) tries to conquer the means streets of New York. Mason Leverington, a fellow Tesla owner joins the conversation as we delve into the intricacies of FSD technology, exploring its neural network capabilities, comparisons with other driving assist technologies, and the user experience. The discussion highlights the evolution of FSD, its human-like driving behavior, and the importance of software updates in enhancing performance. We also address the accessibility of self-driving for average drivers and where the technology is headed next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Considering a used EV? When battery confidence is on the line, consumers hesitate. And that's why Scott Case launched Recurrent, a company focused on battery health in the new and used EV market. He discusses the challenges of launching a startup during the COVID-19 pandemic, the pivotal role that Recurrent plays, and how providing transparency and confidence can be a pillar for the marketplace. The conversation also delves into market trends, pricing dynamics, and the future of electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for reliable battery reporting as the industry matures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is your dream car? Austin Healy 3000, Porsche Speedster? What if these cars could be reimagined as a modern EV that can even power your house in-between Sunday drives? That's actually a reality right now as Gary White, CEO and co-founder at Sebring Works can attest. He shares his journey from IT to automotive innovation, discussing the challenges and triumphs of creating a unique electric skateboard platform that offers classic looks with stunning performance that the originals could only dream of. While that may be heresy to some, the marketplace says otherwise. The conversation also explores the balance between nostalgia and modern performance, the emotional connection to classic cars, and the practicalities of electric vehicle ownership. You can find out more about Sebring Works here: www.sebring-works.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:58 Performance vs. Nostalgia in Classic Cars 12:45 Acquisition of Sebring's IP and Its Impact 17:02 Response from Classic Car Enthusiasts 21:34 Innovative Vehicle-to-Home Charging Solutions 28:41 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs in the EV Space Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Urban EV Podcast, host Rob Hoffman speaks with Dr. Felix Stracke, VP of Engineering New Mobility at Rheinmetall, about the company's innovative curbside EV charger. The conversation covers Rheinmetall, best known as a defense contractor, through its entry into the electric vehicle charging space with its novel curb charger solution. Dr Stracke shares insights from pilot testing in Cologne, and future expansion plans into Europe. The discussion highlights the importance of innovative solutions for urban charging infrastructure and the potential impact on EV adoption. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 04:54 Innovative Curbside Charger Design 09:49 Technical Specifications and User Experience 15:37 Pilot Program Insights and User Feedback 21:20 The Advantages of Curb Chargers 25:57 The Need for Urban Charging Solutions 36:24 Closing Thoughts and Future Collaborations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join co-hosts Rob Hoffman and Scott Murphy along with guest, Josh Goldwitz as they delve into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, logistics, and sustainability. Josh shares his career path from engineering to consulting that gave him a front row seat to the challenges and opportunities in EV infrastructure and logistics. The role of sustainability in business and the importance of the triple bottom line. Insights into the electrification of ground support equipment and last-mile delivery. The future of urban transportation and the need for more charging options. Topics discussed include Josh's experience with the MTA, JetBlue, and Amazon. The importance of density and efficiency in e-bike delivery operations. The role of government and policy in supporting sustainable logistics. Chapters: 00:00 Josh Goldwitz's Journey in Transportation 01:50 Electrification and EV Charging Challenges 04:19 Sustainability in Transportation 06:42 Last Mile Delivery Innovations 09:22 Government Regulations and Infrastructure 11:53 Future of EV Logistics 17:17 The Role of E-Bikes in Urban Delivery 19:35 Challenges in Urban Logistics 22:22 The Need for More Charging Infrastructure 24:49 Wrap-Up and Future Conversations Josh can be reached at https://appliedtransport.solutions #EVs #Sustainability #Logistics #JoshGoldwitz #ElectricVehicles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When will EV charging hubs start to offer the basic amenities that one comes to expect from a gas station? Sooner than you think. Bill Reid, Chairman and CEO of Rove Charging joins The Urban EV Podcast to reveal the innovative approach Rove is taking towards public EV charging infrastructure. He shares his unique background in energy and finance, the challenges and successes of Rove's business model, which has been in the black from day one, and the importance of user experience and sustainability in the EV space. The conversation also touches on the future of EV adoption, the current state of charging infrastructure, and the community engagement efforts Rove is making to support local initiatives. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Rove Charging and Bill Reid 02:07 Bill Reid's Journey to Rove Charging 04:32 Rove Charging's Unique Business Model 07:41 Customer Response and Performance Metrics 09:18 Plans for Growth and Expansion 10:42 Challenges in EV Infrastructure 14:06 The Future of EV Adoption 16:59 Community Engagement and Sustainability To find out more about Rove Charging, visit: https://www.rovecharging.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Urban EV Podcast, host Rob Hoffman sits down with Ben Prochazka, Executive Director of the Electrification Coalition, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of electric mobility. Ben shares what’s really driving the EV transition, from federal policy to local action, and why getting the right funding and incentives in place is so critical. Ben digs into the wins and roadblocks facing the industry today, including what recent legislation means for fleets, cities, and long-haul trucking. Along the way, he clears up some common EV myths and explains why the shift to electrification is about a lot more than just cleaner cars, it’s about reshaping the way we move. To find out more about the Electrification Coalition, visit: https://electrificationcoalition.org/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Urban EV Podcast 01:03 Ben Prochazka's Journey to Electrification 03:44 The Mission of the Electrification Coalition 05:35 Engaging Both Sides of the Aisle 07:50 Recent Developments: NEVI Funding 09:44 Understanding EV Credits and Legislation 13:48 The Impact of the Inflation Reduction Act 17:19 The Future of EVs and Global Competition 21:42 Strategies for Advancing EV Adoption 24:29 The Rise of Electric Vehicles 34:20 Fleet Electrification and Its Impact 39:20 Insights from EVS 38 Conference Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

E-mobility is more than just EVs and marketing it takes more than just plugging into the buzz. In this episode of The Urban EV Podcast, hosts Rob Hoffman and Scott Murphy are joined by Theo Reichgelt, founder of Nexxt Industry, to explore the evolving world of e-mobility and the unique marketing challenges that come with it. They discuss why e-mobility goes beyond just EVs, how companies often miss the mark with their messaging, and what it takes to build user experiences that truly resonate with drivers. Theo also shares insights on regional differences in adoption, the importance of strategic thinking in charging infrastructure, and offers a preview of his CPO Masterclass designed to help charge point operators sharpen their approach. Whether you're building infrastructure or marketing EV services, this episode is packed with insight. Nexxt Industry: https://www.nexxtindustry.com/ To sign up for Theo's Masterclass, use this link: https://www.ampeco.com/webinars/beyond-charge-point-utilization-marketing-strategies/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to E-Mobility and Next Industry 02:19 Understanding E-Mobility Beyond EVs 05:02 Marketing Strategies in E-Mobility 07:41 Challenges Faced by EV Users 09:30 The Role of Clover in E-Mobility 10:19 Common Marketing Mistakes in E-Mobility 12:52 Changing Perceptions of Electric Vehicles 15:26 Market Differences in Europe and the US 18:12 Urban vs. Rural Charging Needs 20:40 The Future of Fast Charging 23:33 Understanding EV Driver Needs 26:08 Successful CPOs in the Market 27:15 CPO Masterclass Announcement 30:21 The Role of AI in Marketing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What can the former head of global strategy at Avis Budget Group tell us about EVs and autonomous vehicles? It starts with learning from past mistakes. In this episode of the ⁠The Urban EV Podcast⁠, hosts Rob Hoffman and Scott Murphy welcome ⁠Hari Sripathi⁠, founder of Mad Hatter Consulting to explore the inherent challenges and opportunities within the fleet mobility sector. Hari shares insights from his extensive experience in the transformation of legacy car rental companies into the digital age, emphasizing the importance of user experience and timing in the adoption of electric vehicles. We also discuss the evolution and future of autonomous vehicles, focusing on the democratization of transport through shared mobility solutions like robo-taxis and robo-buses. Hari analyzes past failures in transit models, the impact of electric vehicles, and the technological advancements shaping the industry. Predictions for transportation by 2030 highlight the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, emphasizing the need for improved infrastructure and charging solutions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Urban EV Podcast 01:56 Hari Sripathi's Journey in Mobility Innovation 05:54 The Evolution of Avis Budget Group 12:52 Challenges in Electric Vehicle Adoption 15:38 Future Outlook for Fleets and Electric Vehicles 17:17 The Role of Autonomous Vehicles in Mobility 18:36 Democratizing Autonomous Transport 21:27 Lessons from Failed Transit Models 24:20 The Future of Shared Mobility 26:42 Emerging Technologies in Autonomous Vehicles 29:33 Predictions for Transportation by 2030 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Big Tech to the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Anup Parikh, founder of Pangea Charging shares his journey along with the challenges of implementing EV charging in multifamily and commercial real estate, the impact of incentives on EV adoption, and the cultural barriers in red states like Texas. Anup also shares insights from his YouTube series, 'The Fast and the Curious,' where he engages with diverse perspectives on EVs. He reveals plans for a cross-country road trip to promote the EV industry and highlights the opportunities available for aspiring entrepreneurs in this space. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the EV Revolution 00:46 Anoop's Journey into the EV Space 02:17 Pangea Charging: Solving the Charging Dilemma 04:03 Challenges of Public Charging Access 06:01 Feedback from Multifamily Real Estate 09:09 The Texas EV Market: A Lagging Landscape 13:36 The Fast and the Curious: Anup's YouTube Journey 16:38 Engaging with Diverse Perspectives on EVs 22:51 Upcoming EV Road Trip Challenge 24:54 Exploring the EV Industry Landscape 28:00 The 90-Day Road Trip Plan 29:34 Pangea Charging's Mission and Vision 32:56 Advice for Aspiring EV Entrepreneurs To learn more about Pangea Charging or follow Anup on YouTube as he documents his journey across the US, use the links below: https://www.pangeacharging.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/thefastandthecurious Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Urban EV Podcast, we are joined by Chase Drum, EV advocate and founder of The Grid Connections podcast. Chase discusses his journey into electric vehicles, the evolution of EV technology, the current state of the grid and charging infrastructure, and the challenges and potential of vehicle-to-grid technology with Tesla leading the way. The conversation also touches on the future of EV charging and battery technology, offering insights for those curious about making the switch to electric vehicles. You can find Chase on the Grid Connections podcast here: https://gridconnections.fm/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the EV Revolution 02:09 Chase Drum's Journey in EV Advocacy 04:08 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles 06:01 The Role of the Grid in EV Adoption 08:30 Challenges and Innovations in EV Charging 10:54 Vehicle-to-Grid Technology and Its Potential 21:23 The Future of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Technology 22:50 Challenges in EV Adoption and Infrastructure 25:53 The Importance of Standardization in EV Charging 30:25 Rethinking EV Charging Experiences 36:55 Rapid Fire Round: Personal Car Experiences 37:51 First Electric Vehicles: Personal Experiences 40:23 Charging Stories: The Good and the Bad 46:26 Advice for the EV Curious: Jump In! 53:51 Future Innovations in EV Charging and Battery Technology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2025 New York International Auto Show came and went. And like a tree in falling in the forest, did it really make a sound?Sort of. Even though it's based in America's largest media market, it has steadily lost its position on the world's automotive stage. But its strength may be on the macro level now as their game of show and tell has turned into EV go and sell. Less cars on display means more room to drive and no internal combustion engine means there's suddenly a world of novel opportunities to showcase EVs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Urban EV Podcast, hosts Rob Hoffman and Scott Murphy engage in a lively conversation with Nigel Gordon Stewart, the chairman and CEO of Austin Motor Company. They explore Nigel's extensive background in the automotive industry from McLaren to Lamborghini to Lotus and eventually Austin, where he is leading the legendary brand into the electric vehicle era with the Austin Arrow. The discussion also touches on a Lamborghini test drive with Donald Trump, the challenges faced with entering the US market, disconnect between vehicle size and urban needs and the future of EVs. Additionally, they delve into Project Arrow, Canada's electric vehicle initiative, and Nigel's vision for the future of Austin Motor Company (https://www.austinmotorcompany.com/) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Electric Mobility and Austin Motor Company 01:01 Nigel Gordon-Stewart's Journey in the Automotive Industry 04:42 Transition to Austin Motor Company and Electric Vehicles 05:36 Development of the Austin Arrow and Urban Mobility 11:39 The Advantages of Electric Vehicles 17:31 Understanding the Quadricycle Concept 20:13 The Disconnect Between Vehicle Size and Urban Needs 23:55 The Future of EVs and Changing Perceptions 25:43 The Shift to Electric Vehicles 28:23 Performance and Specifications of the Austin Arrow 30:38 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles 32:40 BYD's Market Strategy and Impact 35:56 Future of Battery Technology 39:42 The Role of Features in Modern Cars 43:54 Project Aero: Reviving Canadian Automotive Pride 51:20 Manufacturing Challenges and Opportunities in Canada 52:17 Quality Control in Automotive Production 54:42 The Target Market for Austin Cars 57:34 Future Plans for Austin's Vehicle Lineup 01:03:41 A Surprising Encounter with Donald Trump Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Davide Giacobbe, co-founder of Voltest, joins UEVP to share his journey in the automotive industry from Yamaha to Lamborghini. And with that performance pedigree, why he shifted attention to the more mundane but real challenges of purchasing used EVs with concerns of battery health. Davide reveals the importance of real-world data in assessing battery health, the future of the used EV market, and the role of Voltest in promoting transparency and sustainability in EV ownership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Davide Giacobbe's Journey in Automotive Engineering 04:38 Transition from Combustion Engines to EVs 06:04 The Birth of Voltest and Its Purpose 12:01 Real-World Applications of Voltest 14:19 Understanding Battery Health in Used EVs 18:28 The Future of the Used EV Market 20:39 Evaluating Used EVs: Mileage and Battery Health 26:09 The Future of EV Ownership and Voltest's Role 28:30 Conclusion and Future Prospects for Voltest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joseph Nagle, head of corporate strategy at Pando Electric, joins the Urban EV Podcast to reveal some of the challenges and innovations in electric vehicle (EV) charging, including their novel solution to make electrification of multifamily housing more affordable. Joseph shares his journey in the electric mobility sector, the unique solutions Pando Electric offers for home charging, and the importance of adaptive load management. We will hear about the successful case studies of Pando's installations, and the growing recognition of EV charging as a necessity for condo and rental property owners. Looking ahead, Joseph discusses the future of EV infrastructure and the potential for multifamily properties to become self-sustaining energy hubs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Urban EV Podcast and Guests 02:23 Joseph Nagle's Journey in EV Infrastructure 05:21 Pando Electric's Unique Charging Solutions 08:02 Challenges in Urban EV Charging 10:57 Case Studies and Success Stories 13:51 The Future of EV Charging in Multifamily Housing 18:15 The Case for EV Charging in Multifamily Housing 20:02 Innovations and Partnerships in EV Charging 21:37 The Future of EV Charging and Urban Infrastructure 24:21 Pando Electric's Mission and Accessibility Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EV pioneers Kevin Booker and Sam Clarke explore their electrifying journey, from breaking Guinness World Records for EV efficiency to demystifying range anxiety and optimizing driving techniques. Dive deep into the real-world impacts of weather and terrain on EV performance, learn the secrets of hyper-milling techniques along with the busting of range anxiety myths as Kevin and Sam share their stories. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Urban EV Podcast 01:18 Meet the Guests: Kevin Booker and Sam Clarke 03:14 The Journey to Guinness World Records 07:07 Maximizing EV Efficiency: Driving Techniques 12:23 Impact of Weather and Terrain on EV Range 15:36 Addressing Range Anxiety in EV Adoption 19:03 The Evolution of EV Infrastructure 20:27 The Right Chargers at the Right Time 21:03 The Evolution of EVs and Market Dynamics 22:16 Chinese Brands Making Their Mark 24:05 Brand Loyalty and Market Perception 25:14 Hyundai and Kia's Rise in the EV Market 26:13 Personal Experiences with EVs 26:44 The Elon Musk Effect on Tesla 28:56 Public Sentiment Towards Tesla 34:06 Debunking EV Myths 35:41 The Misleading Nature of Hybrids 37:58 The Future of EV Marketing 44:01 Memorable EV Experiences and Record Attempts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices