Charlie Cook, founder of Rightcharge, shared his journey from civil engineering graduate to climate-tech entrepreneur on Auto Futurecast.

Inspired by his passion to combat climate change, Charlie transitioned from Octopus Energy, where he launched the UK’s first EV-specific energy tariff, to building Rightcharge, a platform simplifying EV ownership.

The Rightcharge Pivot

Initially a home charge point marketplace, Rightcharge faced challenges by 2023. A pivotal shift to fleet payment solutions redefined the business, streamlining public charging payments and automating home charging reimbursements for EV fleets. Major clients like The AA now rely on Rightcharge to meet sustainability goals.

Building Momentum

With 60% of UK EVs owned by businesses, Rightcharge’s services are vital for reducing costs and tracking emissions. Now expanding to four European markets, the company is addressing a market five times the size of the UK.

Lessons for Founders

Charlie’s advice for entrepreneurs: Validate ideas, embrace pivots, structure fundraising around clear goals, and explore international markets. His journey shows how scalable innovation can drive sustainability.

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The automotive industry is at a turning point, driven by Electric Vehicles (EVs), AI advancements, and economic pressures reshaping the transport sector. Karima Haji, Managing Director at Scania Financial Services joins the latest Auto Futurecast podcast to share how Scania FS navigates these challenges while keeping customer needs front and center.

Key Takeaways

AI: A Tool, Not a Replacement

• Streamlining operations: AI is transforming credit and risk management and simplifying documentation.
• Retaining the human touch: Scania ensures personalised customer support remains central to building trust and maintaining relationships.

Driving EV Adoption: The Role of Policy

• Cost barriers: Commercial EV adoption can be expensive, making government subsidies vital.
• Policy support: Initiatives like the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate give businesses confidence to invest in EV infrastructure.
• Clear guidance: Scania FS highlights the importance of stable policies to accelerate EV adoption.

Supporting Customers Through Economic Uncertainty

• Tailored solutions: Scania FS offers flexible financial and operational support, recognising every customer's unique journey towards electrification.
• Overcoming barriers: Helping operators navigate challenges and focus on sustainable growth.

Innovation Meets Stability

• Balancing technology and expertise: Scania combines cutting-edge tools with a commitment to strong customer relationships.
• Sustainable success: A clear roadmap driven by innovation and financial stability ensures long-term industry growth.

Redefining Transport for a Sustainable Future

With a focus on innovation, policy support, and customer-centric solutions, Scania FS is setting a new standard for a greener, more efficient transport industry.

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In our latest episode, we spoke with Nikki Rimmington, a strategy expert from battery cell start-up Volklec, about UK gigafactory developments.

With experience at Jaguar Land Rover and Aston Martin, Nikki shared insights into the UK's electrification journey. We discussed challenges and opportunities in battery production, localised supply chains, and how start-ups like Volklec compete in this industry.

What is Volklec?

Volklec is a UK start-up aiming to become the country's only independent battery cell manufacturer. While larger projects like Agratas and AESC target high-volume production, Volklec focuses on specialised markets beyond automotive.

Who Does Volklec Serve?

Volklec caters to niche markets that struggle to attract large-scale suppliers:

• High-performance, low-volume automotive
• Aerospace (drone batteries)
• Defence (land and aerospace vehicles)
• Off-highway vehicles
• Rail, marine, medical technology, and robotics

A "Start Small, Think Big" Approach

Volklec builds capabilities and customer relationships gradually, learning from challenges faced by other European battery projects. This reduces risks associated with large-scale ventures.

Key Partnerships

Partnerships are central to Volklec's strategy:

• UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC): Volklec uses UKBIC's Coventry facility to produce cells without upfront factory capital.
• Farasis Energy: Partnering with this Chinese battery company provides proven technology and reduces customer risk.

Gigafactory Challenges

Location Factors

• Skilled Workforce: Proximity to manufacturing hubs like the Midlands provides advantages
• Energy Infrastructure: Gigafactories require robust power and renewable energy plans
• Community Engagement: Poor local relations can cause delays, as seen with Tesla's Berlin factory

Operational Hurdles

• Investment: Securing funding requires clear plans and proven demand
• Product Focus: Factories must align with specific chemistries and formats
• Valley of Death: Bridging the gap between ideas and market-ready products

The Battery Ecosystem

Recycling Challenges

EU regulations require increased recycled content, but batteries are lasting longer than expected, creating supply shortfalls for recycling. Innovations like replacing individual cells instead of entire modules could extend lifespans further.

Government Support

The UK government supports batteries through investment zones and funding bodies like the Advanced Propulsion Centre. However, demand remains the biggest barrier—the UK's smaller market needs critical mass to drive investment and strengthen supply chains.

Looking to 2030

For the UK battery sector to thrive, Nikki envisions:

• Stronger demand across industries
• Renewed investor confidence
• Robust ecosystem from raw materials to recycling

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