Auto Futurecast

How will the rise of electric vehicles reshape the used-car market?

In Episode 8 of Auto Futurecast, Chris Kirby is joined by Oliver from Generational and Gareth Jones from G3 Remarketing to explore how technology, changing buyer behaviour and EV adoption are transforming vehicle auctions and remarketing.

From the challenges of selling used EVs to independent dealers to the growing importance of battery health, vehicle data and digital inspections, this conversation explores what it will take to build confidence in the next generation of used vehicles.

In this episode, we explore:

• The evolution of digital and physical vehicle auctions
• How technology is improving vehicle inspections and buyer experience
• Battery health and transparency in the used EV market
• Why independent dealers need greater confidence in electric vehicles
• How changing consumer demand is reshaping remarketing
• The role of AI and data in auction operations
• What the next wave of used EVs could mean for the automotive industry

As more electric vehicles enter the second-hand market, the challenge is no longer just moving stock. It’s giving buyers the information and confidence to make informed decisions.

🎙️ Watch the full episode and join the conversation.

Auto Futurecast Season 2 is sponsored by Aon, in association with Tomorrow’s Journey & Generational.

#AutoFuturecast #UsedEVs #EVMarket #Automotive #VehicleRemarketing #CarAuctions #ElectricVehicles #FutureOfMobility

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

EV charging is becoming more than just plugging in your car.

In Episode 7 of Auto Futurecast, Chris Kirby is joined by Anthony Brien, UK Lead at Next Blue, to explore the evolution of EV charging, from home and commercial charging to V2G, V2X and the future of the connected home energy ecosystem. 

The conversation also covers the importance of charging reliability and customer education, the growth of the second-hand EV market, charging for fleets and commercial applications, and how the industry can build a more interoperable charging ecosystem. 

🎙️ Watch the full episode and join the conversation.

Sponsored by Aon, in association with Tomorrow’s Journey & Generational.

#AutoFuturecast #EVCharging #V2X #V2G #ElectricVehicles #HomeCharging #FutureOfMobility #EV #Mobility

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

What does the future of mobility look like in Dubai? And what happens when mobility is designed around convenience, trust and everyday family life?

In Episode 6 of Auto Futurecast Season 2, Chris Kirby is joined by Lauren Hamilton, Founder of Ride Skipper, for a conversation exploring a very different side of mobility.

Lauren shares how a personal challenge led her to build an on-demand driver service in Dubai, designed to give families and individuals a trusted way to get from A to B in their own cars.

The conversation explores family mobility, school runs, airport transfers, on-demand drivers, safety, trust and the operational challenges of running a driver-based mobility business. Lauren also discusses the role of technology in scaling Ride Skipper, including the complexity of driver logistics and knowing where technology can help — and where human interaction still matters.

Chris and Lauren also get into the realities of building a mobility startup in Dubai, from insurance and fuel costs to recruitment, unit economics, fundraising and finding the right investors.

If you're interested in Dubai mobility, family transportation, on-demand drivers, mobility startups, ride-hailing alternatives and the future of urban transport, this episode offers a unique perspective on how mobility services are evolving.

🎙️ Watch the full episode and join the conversation.

#AutoFuturecast #DubaiMobility #FutureOfMobility #OnDemandDrivers #FamilyMobility #MobilityStartup #RideSkipper #Dubai #Automotive #Mobility 

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

How is micromobility changing the way cities move? And are infrastructure and regulation keeping up?

In Episode 5 of Auto Futurecast Season 2, Chris Kirby is joined by Caroline Seton, Co-Founder & Director at Forest, to explore the growth of shared mobility and the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of urban transport.

They discuss how shared bikes are becoming part of everyday journeys, what cities need to do to support micromobility at scale, and how public space, parking and transport infrastructure need to evolve alongside changing travel behaviour. 

The conversation also looks at transport policy, regulation, fleet management, safety and the future of micromobility, including why better integration between shared mobility and existing public transport will be important for creating a more connected urban transport system. 

Topics covered:

• The growth of shared mobility and micromobility
• How cities can support shared bike adoption
• Parking, kerbside space and urban infrastructure
• Transport policy and regulation
• Fleet management and operational challenges
• Safety and technology in shared mobility
• Integrating micromobility with public transport
• The future of urban mobility

🎙️ Watch the full episode and join the conversation.

#Micromobility #SharedMobility #UrbanMobility #FutureOfMobility #TransportPolicy #SustainableTransport #AutoFuturecast

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

What does the future of freight really look like?

In Episode 4 of Auto Futurecast Season 2, Chris Kirby is joined by Jamie Sands, Head of Solutions at Welch’s Transport, to explore how electrification, artificial intelligence and autonomous technology are reshaping the logistics industry.

From the realities of running electric HGVs to the challenge of building charging infrastructure at scale, Jamie shares what Welch’s has learned by becoming an “accidental pioneer” in fleet electrification. The conversation explores why the traditional total cost of ownership calculation no longer works, and why electrification increasingly needs to be viewed as a commercial opportunity, not simply a sustainability exercise. 

Chris and Jamie also dive into AI in logistics, including how operators can unlock value from huge amounts of fleet data, predictive maintenance and smarter operations. The discussion then turns to autonomous freight and why automation could fundamentally change the economics and structure of logistics networks. 

They discuss:

• The commercial case for electric trucks and fleet electrification
• Why charging infrastructure could become one of freight’s biggest bottlenecks
• How AI can transform fleet data and logistics operations
• The potential of autonomous trucks and autonomous freight
• Why collaboration and innovation will be critical for independent operators
• What the transition could mean for the future economics of freight

Jamie also discusses 2040, the not-for-profit research organisation created to accelerate the transition to the future of freight through collaborative innovation. 

🎙️ Watch the full episode and join the conversation about what comes next for freight and logistics.

Auto Futurecast Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Aon and brought to you in association with Tomorrow’s Journey and Generational.

#AutoFuturecast #FutureOfFreight #FleetElectrification #ElectricTrucks #AI #AutonomousVehicles #Logistics #FutureOfMobility #EVFleet #FreightTech

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

Why EV Fleets Are Winning: Mike Nakrani on Energy, Policy & Profitability

The transition to electric fleets is no longer being driven solely by sustainability goals. As technology matures and operating costs become increasingly important, fleet electrification is emerging as a strategic business decision that can improve efficiency, resilience and long-term competitiveness.

In this episode of Auto Futurecast Season 2, Chris Kirby is joined by Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, to explore why the conversation around fleet electrification is evolving beyond vehicle adoption and towards energy optimisation, operational intelligence and commercial value.

Together, they discuss why businesses are increasingly viewing electrification as a competitive advantage, how intelligent energy management is reshaping fleet operations, the role of the Electric Refinery, and why the organisations that learn to optimise charging, infrastructure and energy today will be best positioned for the future of mobility.

Key Takeaways

• Why fleet electrification is becoming a commercial advantage rather than a sustainability initiative.
• How energy optimisation can reduce costs and improve fleet performance.
• What the Electric Refinery means for the future of fleet energy management.
• Why heavy commercial vehicles are becoming increasingly viable for electrification.
• How operational intelligence is shaping the next generation of fleet management.
• The role of policy, infrastructure and long-term planning in accelerating fleet adoption.

What You'll Learn

Throughout the conversation, Mike shares his perspective on some of the biggest opportunities and challenges shaping commercial transport today.

Why are more fleet operators choosing to electrify based on business performance rather than environmental targets?

How can businesses optimise energy consumption and charging infrastructure to reduce operating costs?

What role will digital tools and energy management play as fleets continue to electrify?

And how should fleet operators, OEMs and mobility businesses prepare for a future where operational intelligence becomes just as important as the vehicles themselves?

Drawing on his experience leading VEV and working with organisations transitioning to electric fleets, Mike shares practical insights into the technologies, strategies and operational changes that are helping businesses build more efficient, resilient and commercially successful fleet operations.

Whether you're an OEM, dealer group, fleet operator, leasing company or mobility provider, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping the future of fleet electrification.

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

In this episode of Auto Futurecast Season 2, Chris Kirby is joined by Sarah Sloman, Global Partnerships Director at Paythru and one of the UK's leading voices in sustainable transport, to explore the future of EV charging, infrastructure and consumer adoption.

 From payment anxiety and contactless charging to destination charging, consumer trust and the evolving EV ecosystem, this conversation examines what the industry needs to focus on next to accelerate the transition to electric mobility.

Whether you're an OEM, dealer group, fleet operator, charge point operator, mobility provider or simply passionate about the future of transportation, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world perspectives.

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

Title : The State of Mobility in 2026 with Lukas Neckermann | Auto Futurecast S2E1

Description: Welcome to Season 2 of Auto Futurecast.

In this episode, Chris Kirby is joined by mobility strategist and industry advisor Lukas Neckermann to discuss the state of mobility in 2026 and the trends shaping the future of automotive.

From autonomous vehicles and AI to dealership transformation, fleet operations and emerging mobility models, Lukas shares his perspective on what is actually changing across the industry, and what leaders should be paying attention to over the next decade.

Topics covered:

• The future of autonomous vehicles in the UK and Europe
• AI's impact on automotive retail and fleet operations
• Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS)
• The evolving role of dealerships
• New automotive brands and market disruption
• Vehicle subscriptions and changing ownership models
• The opportunities and challenges facing the mobility sector in 2026

Whether you're an automotive professional, dealer group, fleet operator, mobility startup or industry enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into the forces reshaping transportation.

🎙️ Guest: Lukas Neckermann
Managing Director, Neckermann Strategic Advisors
Co-Founder, Urban Places Lab
Advisor, PAVE Europe

Presented by Aon.

Subscribe for more conversations with the leaders, innovators and experts shaping the future of automotive and mobility.

#AutoFuturecast #Mobility #AutomotiveIndustry #FutureOfMobility #AutonomousVehicles #ArtificialIntelligence #Dealerships #VehicleSubscription #FleetManagement #Transportation #AutomotiveInnovation #LukasNeckermann #MobilityTechnology #AutomotivePodcast #ElectricVehicles

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

While the conversation around the electric vehicle (EV) revolution typically gravitates toward battery range or autonomous driving software, a significant yet often overlooked challenge remains. The physical installation of EV chargers presents a major bottleneck in infrastructure rollout.

Traditional installation methods are fraught with complications. The process involves excavating trenches, navigating underground utilities, pouring concrete, and managing unpredictable weather delays. These factors collectively slow down the deployment of essential charging networks.

The Solution: Pre-Cast Foundations

In a recent discussion with Trevor Palmer, the founder of EV Blocks, he highlighted how innovation in pre-cast concrete foundations is transforming the installation landscape.

Starting his career as an electrician in London before transitioning to EV installations for Volkswagen showrooms, Palmer encountered constant project delays caused by on-site concrete curing and adverse weather. He identified that wet concrete was the primary bottleneck. His solution was a pre-made foundation that eliminates drying time, turning a sluggish process into a highly efficient operation.

Why the Industry Needs EV Blocks

The EV Blocks system offers several critical advantages that streamline deployment:

• Rapid Installation: The pre-cast nature of the foundation saves significant time and eliminates delays caused by rain or cold temperatures.
• Universal Adaptability: A universal adapter plate ensures the infrastructure is future-proof, allowing site owners to easily upgrade chargers, such as switching from Tesla to Kempower hardware, without digging up the ground.
• Modular Design: The system simplifies cabling and upgrades, making it easier to scale sites as demand grows.
• Enhanced Security: Built-in features protect valuable cabling from theft before the chargers are even installed.

Smart Scaling Through Local Manufacturing

Scaling the production of a heavy product like a 180kg concrete block presents logistical challenges. To overcome this, EV Blocks utilises a licensing model. By partnering with local pre-cast producers, the company reduces shipping costs and carbon footprint.

This approach also allows for regional adaptation. For instance, blocks manufactured for the US market are designed to accommodate deeper frost lines. Today, EV Blocks successfully operates across the UK, US, France, Belgium, and Australia.

The Shift Toward Modular Charging

The future of EV infrastructure is moving away from bulky, all-in-one chargers toward modular systems. In this setup, a central power cabinet feeds smaller, more cost-effective satellite units.

This configuration offers distinct benefits:

• Lower Repair Costs: Damaged satellite units are cheaper to fix than standalone chargers.
• Scalability: Site owners can add more charging points over time with minimal disruption.
• Speed: With pre-cast foundations, adding or upgrading satellite units becomes a fast and cost-effective process.

Building the Foundations for the Future

Trevor Palmer’s journey from launching EV Blocks just days before global lockdowns to scaling production is a testament to the resilience required in this sector. His approach demonstrates how practical engineering solutions are vital for driving the EV revolution forward.

Subscribe to stay up to date!

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast

Ever feel like you're overpaying for car insurance based on outdated factors like your age or postcode? Traditional insurance models rely on static data and general assumptions about your risk.

What if your premium was based on how you actually drive? That’s where telematics comes in, using real-time driving data to offer fairer pricing.

What is Telematics?

Telematics is a game-changer. Instead of old-school factors, it tracks real driving habits like:

• Mileage
• Braking patterns
• Acceleration

This allows insurers to match your premium to your driving style.

The Power of Real-Time Data

Modern telematics systems, powered by AI and massive datasets, go beyond "black boxes" to offer dynamic risk assessment. For example:

• Octo Telematics manages data from 95 billion trips, 13 million crashes, and 600 billion kilometres of driving.
• This scale of data enables fairer, more accurate pricing.

Benefits of Telematics

1. Fairer Premiums

• Telematics adjusts based on actual driving, not outdated assumptions.
• Example: During the pandemic, telematics users saw reduced premiums as mileage dropped.

2. Rewards Safe Drivers

• If you're a careful driver, telematics highlights your good habits and helps you save money.

Global Use of Telematics

• UK: Popular with young drivers to reduce high premiums.
• Italy: Focused on fraud prevention and theft recovery.
• US: Encourages safe driving through gamification.

The Future of Telematics

As autonomous vehicles become common, telematics will play a key role in:

• Determining fault in accidents involving self-driving and human-driven cars.
• Managing risk in complex driving environments.

Challenges to Adoption

1. Better Hardware: Shift from clunky black boxes to built-in car systems (OEM data).
2. Updated Regulations: Laws need to reflect modern driving and vehicle capabilities.
3. Data Transparency: Drivers should control their data and use it for better services.

Telematics is transforming car insurance, making it fairer and more personalised. Are you ready for the shift?

Watch Episode on Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/@autofuturecast