EV Café Takeaway

EV Café Takeaway
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Guests from across the EV industry will join the crew for The EV Café Takeaway, having candid conversations to highlight the work of the Electric Vehicle and Sustainability industry, to uncover stories that we all need to learn from and importantly, to understand something of the people behind the work.  The EV Café crew, have the wonderful privilege of talking to some amazing pioneers, innovators, and collaborators in our industry. The generosity, openness, honesty, and insight from our guests has been truly humbling and inspirational. We want as many people as possible, to be challenged and inspired by these podcasts.

  1. Neil Hughes | Utility Line

    2D AGO

    Neil Hughes | Utility Line

    In this episode, hosts Paul and John welcome Neil Hughes, Head of Business Development at Utility Line, to explore the complex but critical world of powering the UK’s transition to electric vehicles. Neil shares insights from over 25 years in the electrical industry, including his work behind the scenes on the “grey boxes” and infrastructure that make EV charging possible. He discusses how Utility Line, an independent connection provider, is helping businesses simplify grid connections, overcome red tape, and prepare for the electrification of fleets, trucks, buses, and industrial sites. The conversation ranges from:- Real-world challenges of connecting EV infrastructure to the grid- Using battery storage to bridge power gaps and future-proof sites- Balancing sustainability with wildlife and land protection during development- The importance of trust, relationships, and determination in driving change And yes, there’s also talk of Wrexham’s Hollywood moment, Neil’s personal goal to complete a 10k, and a wish to cut through the red tape holding back the UK’s net zero ambitions. If you’re curious about how EV charging infrastructure really gets powered—and the people working to make it happen—this episode is packed with practical insight and candid conversation. Utility Line | Specialist Independent Connection Providerhttps://www.utilityline.co.uk/ Adler & Allan | Environmental Risk Reductionhttps://www.adlerandallan.co.uk/

    40 min
  2. Graeme Cooper | AECOM

    MAR 4

    Graeme Cooper | AECOM

    Graeme Cooper returns to The EV Café Takeaway for a conversation that spans life, energy, and the future of zero-emission transport—this time from his new home in snowy Massachusetts. Once the very first guest on the podcast, Graeme reflects on leaving National Grid, navigating a transatlantic relocation, and adapting to the realities of the US energy and EV market. From the rise of “greenhushing” to the challenges of electrifying vast American fleets, Graeme pulls apart the complex relationship between federal and state policies, the unintended consequences of political decisions, and why pragmatism and emotional resilience matter in the energy transition. Along the way, he shares candid insights about personal change, building a sustainable home, and why the human side of the net-zero story can’t be ignored. Topics include: Living and working in the US under shifting political winds How state vs. federal rules drive (or hinder) EV adoption The concept of **greenhushing** and why clean energy is happening quietly Pragmatism in large-scale energy projects, from data centres to EV fleets Personal lessons in resilience, adaptability, and finding “home” abroad A thoughtful look at the zero-emission journey from both sides of the Atlantic—delivered in true Graeme Cooper style. Graeme Cooper (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecooper/

    1h 2m
  3. Stuart Humphrey

    FEB 25

    Stuart Humphrey

    This week on The EV Café Takeaway, we welcome Stuart Humphrey – a passionate electric vehicle advocate, wellbeing champion, and winner of the EV Café Christmas Cracker Wellbeing Award.  Stuart shares how a simple financial decision to lease a Nissan Leaf in 2014 sparked 12 years of EV driving and inspired him to become a vocal supporter of accessibility and inclusion in the EV community. In this episode, he talks about:  - Making EVs fun, simple, and affordable for everyone  - Tackling misinformation and building confidence for new drivers  - The link between mental health, neurodiversity, and community advocacy  - Why inclusivity – from women in EVs to young drivers – is key to mass adoption  - Practical insights on home solar, battery storage, and living with EVs day-to-day  From sharing strategies for managing difficult days to highlighting gaps in public charging, Stuart brings a refreshingly honest and practical perspective on driving change in the zero-emission space.  Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn, and explore more conversations at evcafe.org or on Apple and Spotify. Stuart Humphrey (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-humphrey-974205166/

    47 min
  4. Ben Traviss | Lloyd Motor Group

    FEB 18

    Ben Traviss | Lloyd Motor Group

    It’s the award‑winning Ben Travis! A true champion of customer experience and electric vehicle education.  Ben joined the automotive industry in 2019 and became a trusted EV specialist, guiding customers through the transition from internal combustion to electric. During the first lockdown, while many settled into furlough, Ben immersed himself in EV knowledge—devouring YouTube videos, manuals, and guides—to ensure he could deliver confident, first‑hand advice to customers.  Ben opens up about: His passion for customer‑first service and why empathy is at the heart of electrification.   Building confidence in EV adoption through real‑world experience and storytelling.   How LinkedIn and YouTube gave him a platform to educate and inspire.   Staying grounded in the face of recognition, negativity, and life’s challenges.   His personal “magic wand” wish for a better world.   Ben Traviss (LinkedIn)https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentraviss/ LLoyd Motor Grouphttps://www.lloydmotorgroup.com Ben’s YouTube Channel (Electric Ben)https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBenYT

    50 min
  5. Anne Snelson | Lead With Sustainability

    FEB 11

    Anne Snelson | Lead With Sustainability

    Anne Snelson (Lead With Sustainability) shares hey journey from government statistician and AA policy researcher to senior marketing roles at Vodafone and RingGo, before finding her purpose in sustainability. She takes us through her work championing emissions-based parking, her role in influencing corporate sustainability at companies like BMW and Nissan, and how her Carbon Literacy Project training is sparking meaningful change across the automotive and built environment sectors. Anne opens up about:  - Her personal motivations for tackling climate change and the influence of her parents, a statistician father and ecologist mother.  - The emotional moments from delivering her sustainability training, and the ripple effects it creates in corporate and personal lives alike.  - The importance of circularity, AI-driven innovation, and co-benefits in building a zero-emission future.  - Life lessons in resilience, building a purpose-led business in her 50s, and finding joy in making a difference.  Oh, and there’s talk of Climate Change Countdown, EV road trips to Italy, and why cheap renewable electricity is top of Anne’s “magic wand” wish list. Lead With Sustainabilityhttps://leadwithsustainability.co.uk EV Cafe listeners can get a **20% discount** off the full price by entering promo code EVC2026 at the  checkout https://www.tickettailor.com/events/leadwithsustainability Anne Snelsonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-snelson-bsc-dipm-mba-93a6701/

    53 min
  6. Jess Shanahan | Jet Social

    FEB 4

    Jess Shanahan | Jet Social

    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.uk Jet Socialhttps://www.jetsocial.co.uk

    48 min
  7. Richard Guy | Amey

    JAN 28

    Richard Guy | Amey

    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-6195189a Ameyhttps://www.amey.co.uk

    54 min
  8. Matt Cleevely | Cleevely Electric Vehicles

    JAN 21

    Matt Cleevely | Cleevely Electric Vehicles

    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

    1h 1m
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About

Guests from across the EV industry will join the crew for The EV Café Takeaway, having candid conversations to highlight the work of the Electric Vehicle and Sustainability industry, to uncover stories that we all need to learn from and importantly, to understand something of the people behind the work.  The EV Café crew, have the wonderful privilege of talking to some amazing pioneers, innovators, and collaborators in our industry. The generosity, openness, honesty, and insight from our guests has been truly humbling and inspirational. We want as many people as possible, to be challenged and inspired by these podcasts.

Information

  • Creator
    EV Café Takeaway
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    158
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    EV Café Takeaway

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