We sit down with “EV royalty” Melanie Shufflebotham, Co-founder and COO at Zapmap. Discover how Melanie’s passion for sustainability led her to transform a simple spreadsheet into the UK’s leading EV charging platform, now trusted by thousands of drivers every day. She explains how Zapmap compiles live data from over 70,000 charge points, offering users real-time insights to help them conquer range anxiety. Melanie also shares her vision for more affordable electric models and seamless charging experiences.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-shufflebotham-07ba501/

https://www.zap-map.com

Join John Curtis and Paul Kirby as they welcome Professor Richard Allan from the University of Reading—a leading voice in climate science and contributor to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Together, they explore how climate change data translates into tangible impacts on our daily lives and the essential role that decarbonising transport plays in mitigating global heating. Professor Allan shares insights from his pioneering research, discusses the importance of effective communication in climate advocacy, and reveals practical steps everyone can take for a healthier planet.

Richard Allan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-allan-51b2a114/

https://bsky.app/profile/rpallanuk.bsky.social

Join the whole EV Café crew as we ring in the New Year with a look forward to 2025!

Cosy up with the whole team this Christmas Day as we take a look back at the year that was 2024. 

This week on The EV Café Takeaway, hosts Paul Kirby and Sara Sloman sit down with Phil Clarke, Founder and CEO of TUAL, to explore groundbreaking solutions to the challenges of commercial fleet electrification. Phil reveals how TUAL’s power bank-based charging infrastructure provides flexibility where grid capacity is limited, turning even the toughest-to-reach locations into EV-friendly hubs. Discover how “perpetual” thinking and portable energy storage can help fleets sidestep lengthy DNO upgrades, reduce downtime, and drive the energy transition forward. From rural depots to bustling city hubs, this lively conversation offers an inspiring blueprint for the zero-emission journeys that lie ahead.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipjaclarke/

Join hosts Sara Sloman and Sam Clarke on this week’s episode of The EV Café Takeaway as they welcome Amy Carter, EV Operations Manager at DAF Trucks. Amy shares her inspiring journey from mechanic to leading EV initiatives, while also opening up about her personal experience with transition and the resilience it required. Dive into discussions on key projects like the Z HIT program, advancements in electric heavy-duty vehicles, and overcoming challenges in a male-dominated industry. Amy highlights the importance of support networks and diversity, offering valuable insights into building a sustainable, zero-emission future with authenticity and strength.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-carter-bb0215143/

https://www.daf.com/en/

In this episode of The EV Café Takeaway, hosts John Curtis and Sara Sloman sit down with Tom Rowlands, Managing Director of Global EV Solutions at Corpay. They explore how Corpay integrates various brands like Allstar, PlugSurfing, TravelCard, and Mina to offer comprehensive payment solutions in the electric vehicle industry. Tom discusses maintaining a startup culture within a global corporation, the importance of data standardization, and the challenges of EV charging infrastructure. The conversation also touches on work-life balance, mental health, and the significance of inclusive dialogue in promoting EV adoption. Tune in for insights on innovation, leadership, and the future of electric mobility.

The opinions are those of the contributors and are not intended to reflect the views of Corpay.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-rowlands-8b65791a/

https://www.corpay.com

In this episode of the EV Café Takeaway, hosts John Curtis and Paul Kirby sit down with Taco Olthoff, Director of the Electric Vehicle Unit at Bridgestone Webfleet. From his beginnings as a saxophonist and former bankruptcy lawyer, Taco shares his unique journey into the world of EV fleet management. Discover how his passion for building and creating drives innovation at Webfleet, helping fleet managers navigate the electrification transition. Taco discusses the importance of staying curious, overcoming industry fears, and his mission to combat climate change. Tune in to learn how data, innovation, and a touch of jazz can accelerate the zero-emission future we all hope for.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tacoolthoff/

https://www.webfleet.com/en_gb/webfleet/

Join hosts John Curtis and Sara Sloman in this insightful episode as they sit down with Matt Adams, Transport Policy Manager at the Renewable Energy Association (REA). Discover how the REA advocates for over 500 companies in the renewable energy sector and plays a pivotal role in shaping EV policy. Matt shares his journey from studying politics to influencing EV infrastructure and discusses the challenges of implementing public charge point regulations. Gain valuable insights into the future of EVs, renewable energy, and the collaborative efforts needed to drive sustainable change. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the EV industry’s evolution.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-adams-5187a3199/

https://www.r-e-a.net

Join John Curtis and Paul Kirby as they sit down with the multifaceted Rick Parfitt Jr—musician, racing champion, and electric vehicle enthusiast. Rick shares his exhilarating journey from the racetrack to the stage, revealing how his passion for cars evolved from classic engines to electric powerhouses like his Porsche Taycan. Dive into Rick’s insights on sustainability, the future of EV technology, and how electric vehicles have seamlessly integrated into his high-octane lifestyle. Plus, hear about his personal battles with Crohn’s disease and how they’ve shaped his authentic approach to life and career.

https://www.instagram.com/rickparfittjnr/?hl=en