24 episodes

In conversation with the past, present, and future movers and shakers of the electric vehicle eco-system. Upstream in mining and mineral processing and downstream in batteries and charging infrastructures - and all points in between! I will draw on friendships and experiences from almost 40 years in the auto industry - almost half of that embedded within the nascent EV industry. Failure and success are all part of my story...and that of many people I know. YOU will hear about it all. 

Electric & Eclectic with Roger Atkins - LinkedIn Top Voice for EV Roger Atkins

    • Business
    • 3.7 • 3 Ratings

In conversation with the past, present, and future movers and shakers of the electric vehicle eco-system. Upstream in mining and mineral processing and downstream in batteries and charging infrastructures - and all points in between! I will draw on friendships and experiences from almost 40 years in the auto industry - almost half of that embedded within the nascent EV industry. Failure and success are all part of my story...and that of many people I know. YOU will hear about it all. 

    Electric Vehicles and Chinese Dominance Unveiled with Michael Dunn

    Electric Vehicles and Chinese Dominance Unveiled with Michael Dunn

    Embark on an enlightening ride with Michael Dunn, an automotive sage with an Asian tenure spanning over a quarter of a century. As we cruise through the landscape of change in the auto industry, Michael steers us through the night terrors haunting today's executives: the rise of software-defined vehicles, the electric vehicle revolution, and the looming shadow of Asian, particularly Chinese, dominance in the market. From his Detroit roots to the bustling streets of Bangkok, Michael's journey is a testament to the impact of a positive and adventurous upbringing and the pivotal choices that drive a career forward. 

    Navigating through the fog of Chinese business culture, our conversation uncovers the enigmatic ways of the East and how it shapes Western engagement. The opaque yet rapid evolution of China's auto industry unravels before us, revealing tales of joint ventures and the Communist Party's stealthy hand in the electric vehicle race. Witness how China's meticulous strategy transformed it into a global powerhouse, sparking a debate on intellectual property sharing and the unyielding influence of political powers within and outside the Party's ranks.

    As we gaze into the crystal ball of global collaboration, the winds of change suggest a shift from China to other Asian nations, pondering the future tapestry of investments. With Michael Dunn in the passenger seat, "Driving with Dunn" offers not just a podcast episode, but a journey through the heart of the automotive transformation, where every turn promises new insights and the road ahead is anything but certain.

    • 1 hr 4 min
    Transforming Europe's Economy with Sustainable Mineral Resources

    Transforming Europe's Economy with Sustainable Mineral Resources

    Discover the untapped treasure trove of Europe's lithium and borate resources as we sit down with Peter and Alex Palkovsky of Euro Lithium. In a conversation that spans from the picturesque Barcelona to the snowy stretches of Vancouver Island, we uncover the Palkovsky's groundbreaking discovery of a substantial borate deposit with significant lithium content. Their commitment to eco-friendly extraction processes promises a future where Europe's raw material needs are met sustainably—imagine a world where mining contributes to carbon neutrality, or better yet, carbon negativity!

    Wrapping up our journey, we spotlight the inspiring sustainable project in Serbia, where local resources, skilled labor, and supportive government policies set the stage for a transformative impact on the European economy and environment. My guests share their optimism for a greener future and the vital role the next generation will play in carrying forward the torch of environmental stewardship. 

    Join me for a riveting session that ignites curiosity and fuels the passion for a more sustainable and innovative world.

    • 56 min
    Bill Russo Unpacks China's Electric Vehicle Revolution and Its Global Impact.

    Bill Russo Unpacks China's Electric Vehicle Revolution and Its Global Impact.

    Embark on an electrifying exploration of China's automotive revolution with me as we sit down with Bill Russo, arguably the most authoritative automotive commentator living in China. Together, we unravel the intricacies behind China's strategic pivot to electric vehicle (NEV) prominence. We dissect how policy support and massive investment have shifted gears for the automotive sector, propelling China ahead and challenging Western automakers to either join forces or compete in a high-stakes race. Bill sheds light on the transformative journey, from the rise of homegrown innovators like BYD to Tesla's game-changing market entrance, offering a rare glimpse into the global implications of this electric evolution.

    Witness the future of electric mobility unfold as we delve into the innovative business models that are recharging the industry. We discuss the resurgence of battery swapping in China, led by companies like NIO, and its potential to transform EV economics. With fascinating insights into how these advancements could seamlessly integrate into the wider energy ecosystem, Bill paints a picture of a world where cars are not just vehicles but dynamic assets in the renewable energy revolution. From discussions on the role of batteries in bi-directional charging to the prospect of new revenue streams from software and energy services, this episode illuminates the road ahead for the automotive industry.

    Concluding our journey, we cast a spotlight on the Western response to China's dominance in the EV supply chain, as Bill advocates for strategic collaboration over competition. Buckle up for a podcast that doesn't just talk about change - it charges towards it.

    • 38 min
    Charging Ahead: How Norway Leads the Electric Vehicle Revolution

    Charging Ahead: How Norway Leads the Electric Vehicle Revolution

    Embark on an electrifying ride with Christina Bu, the dynamic head of the Norwegian EV Association, as she steers us through Norway's groundbreaking shift to electric mobility. This episode is charged with insights into how a small group of eco-driven individuals accelerated into a robust team influencing global transportation. Christina's wealth of knowledge peels back the layers of Norway's EV policies, the myths hindering adoption, and the importance of community and government support. We also shine a spotlight on the Nordic EV Summit, revealing its influential role in connecting industry leaders and innovating the future of clean travel.

    As we navigate the landscape of sustainable transportation, Christina shares the success secrets behind the Norwegian EV Association's growth and international influence, offering a blueprint for electric vehicle advocacy worldwide. The episode takes a decisive turn towards the heavy-duty sector, focusing on Norway's ambitious initiatives to electrify trucks and combat emissions across all modes of transport. The festive spirit is alive with anticipation for electric mobility's potential in 2024, and the invitation to join us in Oslo for the Nordic EV Summit is an opportunity you won't want to miss. Tune in for a conversation that not only celebrates Norway's pioneering spirit but inspires action towards a greener future.

    • 30 min
    'The Great Race' In conversation with author Levi Tillemann. Global EV Storyteller

    'The Great Race' In conversation with author Levi Tillemann. Global EV Storyteller

    We all have 20:20 vision when it comes to hindsight - but foresight is much rarer. However, reflecting on what Mr Levi Tillemann recounted back in 2015 as to the then nascent electric vehicle revolution might well equip you, as it has me, with a better sense of what could happen next. 

    His book 'The Great Race' is about people, politics and policy - writ large on the world stage. How has China come to increasingly dominate the global industrial landscape and what were the tipping point moments in that story? You'll find the detailed answers in the book and an overview of what's been going on in my conversation with Levi. 

    He's an internationally recognised thought-leader in clean energy and mobility. VP for Policy and International Outreach at Ample. Sr. Advisor to Valence Strategic. Fmr. WEF. Guest contributor at WIRED, The New Yorker, Washington Post and regular commentator on NPR. Skilled in Mobility, Clean Energy, International Relations, Fundraising, Climate Change, and Policy Analysis. 

    • 58 min
    2023 Retrospective - With Steve Levine

    2023 Retrospective - With Steve Levine

    Prepare to embark on an electrifying journey as Steve Levine and I  unravel the multi-faceted world of electric vehicles and renewable energy as we glimpse into the 2023 rear view mirror. 

    We dissect the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) on the industry, drawing a few parallels with past stimulus packages. The discussion extends to the influential works of both Steve and Levi Tillemann, who both wrote chronicles some time ago now on what we see unfolding all around us today.

    We navigate the geopolitically charged issue of the US battery supply chain and Chinese involvement... and the potential role of oil and gas companies in the battery and renewables  landscape. We also talk about my recent close encounters with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Professor Stan Whittingham, both of whom underscored the importance of relatable dialogue and urgency in tackling this global issue.

    • 1 hr 7 min

Customer Reviews

3.7 out of 5
3 Ratings

3 Ratings

jeffos24 ,

Glad it’s back

Roger puts out such great content

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