In this episode, we explore the common barriers preventing more people from switching to electric vehicles. Drawing parallels with smartphone adoption and featuring insights from Greg Hughes, this discussion clarifies why hesitation persists—and how overcoming it can accelerate the move to cleaner mobility.

1. The psychological and societal barriers to adopting EVs, including range anxiety and misinformation
2. The tangible benefits of test drives and real-world experiences in easing fears
3. How infrastructure, costs, and secondhand EV options influence buying decisions
4. Misinformation and how reliable, accessible information can break down doubts
5. Practical advice for prospective owners: test drives, peer insights, and thinking long-term

1. Everything Electric Event
2. Robert Llewelyn – YouTube Channel
3. Tesla Official Website
4. MG Motors
5. Hyundai Electric Vehicles

Hesitation around EVs is natural but primarily rooted in misinformation, lack of firsthand experience, and infrastructural concerns. Just like the smartphone revolution, once people have the chance to sit in, drive, and see the benefits firsthand, resistance diminishes. The shift to electric isn't just inevitable; it’s already accelerating—your move might just be a test drive away.

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

Exploring the evolution of supermarket charging stations for electric vehicles, their strategic deployment, pricing models, and user experience insights.

Key topics

1. History and evolution of supermarket EV charging stations
2. Different supermarket charging strategies and hardware
3. Pricing models and user incentives
4. Dwell time and charging speed considerations
5. Impact of supermarket charging on EV adoption

Key Quote:

"Supermarket charging can be surprisingly cheap"

Resources

EV Musings Podcast - https://evmusings.com

ZAPMAP - https://zap-map.com

Sainsbury's Smart Charge - https://sainsburys.co.uk

GeniePoint - https://geniepoint.co.uk

Podpoint - https://podpoint.com

MFG (Motor Fuel Group) - https://mfgplc.co.uk

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• MFG and Morrisons announce forecourts partnership and EV expansion - Motor Fuel Group
• Sainsbury's Smart Charge: A New Player in the UK EV Charging Market - The EV Musings Podcast
• 140 - The CPO Episode II - The EV Musings Podcast

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

In this episode of the show Gary discusses the true costs associated with electric vehicles and debunks common myths surrounding their affordability.

He highlights the CODE Report indicating that many consumers are deterred from purchasing EVs due to perceived high upfront costs, limited range, and expensive battery replacements.

However, he presents data showing that the majority of EV owners actually save money over time, especially those with home charging capabilities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education in changing public perception about EV pricing and ownership.

Takeaways

Expensive upfront costs deter many from choosing EVs.

Limited range and battery replacement costs are common concerns.

Education is crucial in countering misconceptions about EVs.

80% of people save money by switching to EVs.

Home charging significantly increases savings with EVs.

Public charging costs can affect overall savings.

Used EVs often provide better value than ICE vehicles.

Many consumers have never driven an electric vehicle.

The cost of running an EV is significantly lower than ICE cars.

Pre-registered EVs can be found at substantial discounts.

Key Sound bite

"The average saving is £5,850 with an EV."

Chapters

00:00 The Cost of Electric Vehicles: An Overview

05:09 Understanding Savings with Electric Vehicles

07:02 CODE Quotes

08:01 What do other sources say

11:22 Debunking Myths: Education on EV Costs

12:41 Recent pricing Examples

15:16 Dealer Preregistrations

16:28 Conclusion: The Future of EV Affordability

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• The Cost of Driving Electric (CODE) Report
• Petrol and diesel buying intent rises despite BEV growth | EY - UK
• Average range of new electric cars now 300 miles | Electrifying.com

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

In this conversation, Gary interviews Marcus Berger, CEO of Aviloo, about the importance of battery health diagnostics in the electric vehicle market. They discuss the evolution of Aviloo, the significance of understanding battery health, and the various factors that affect it.

Marcus explains the differences between Aviloo's testing methods and those of competitors, emphasizing the need for independent assessments. The conversation also covers the mechanics of the Aviloo testing process, pricing models for B2B and B2C services, and the comprehensive nature of the Aviloo battery certificate.

They conclude with insights on the future of battery diagnostics and the importance of safety checks in the EV industry.

Takeaways:

Avilo is a market leader in EV battery diagnostics.

Battery health is crucial for determining the value of used EVs.

Different charging habits significantly impact battery health.

Independent testing provides more accurate battery health assessments.

The Avilo Flash Test allows quick battery health checks.

Consumers can access Avilo's testing services through a web shop.

Battery certificates include detailed health metrics and benchmarks.

Data from over half a million tests informs battery health insights.

Battery safety checks should be part of annual vehicle inspections.

Investing in battery health checks is essential for used EV buyers.

Guest Details:

I have been in leading positions of several highly reputable Real Estate companies for more than 20 years. Amongst others, I was MD of an institutional Real Estate Investment funds, COO of the worlds largest real estate services company. I succesfully restructured and built companies throught Central- and Eastern Europe. And then, at the age of 43 I decided to do something totally different and joined the Start Up company AVILOO as COO/CFO and shareholder. AVILOO developed a sophisticated Battery Data Platform to perform independent and objective state of health checks of second hand electric vehicles.

Marcus's Website

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

In this episode of the podcast, Gary addresses common misconceptions and criticisms surrounding electric vehicles.

He discusses various issues such as charging time, environmental impact, running costs, long-distance travel capabilities, charging infrastructure, grid capacity, vehicle pricing, and perceptions of EVs as 'real cars'.

Throughout the conversation, he provides insights and counterarguments to these concerns, aiming to clarify the realities of owning and operating an electric vehicle.

Takeaways

Charging an EV can be done while doing other activities.

The environmental impact of EVs is less significant over time.

Running costs of EVs can be lower than petrol cars in many cases.

Long-distance travel is feasible with proper planning and infrastructure.

Charging infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years.

Grid capacity is being planned for the transition to electric vehicles.

The price of electric vehicles has decreased over time.

Perceptions of EVs as not being 'real cars' are outdated.

Public charging costs vary widely and can be managed effectively.

EVs offer a quieter and more efficient driving experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to EV Problems

01:02 Charging Time Concerns

01:31 They take too long to charge

03:48 Environmental Impact of EVs

04:53 Cost of Running EVs vs Petrol Cars

08:02 They can't do the distance

10:17 Charging Infrastructure Issues

15:15 Grid Capacity and Power Supply

16:11 Cars are too expensive

16:27 Cost of EVs

17:46 Perceptions of EVs as 'Real Cars'

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• Living Without a Home EV Charger: Real-World Costs and Strategies - The EV Musings Podcast
• Rapid Charging prices
• Leccy.net Charging Prices

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

In this conversation, Robin Brundle, executive chairman of Technology Minerals and Recyclus Group, discusses the critical role of battery recycling in the circular economy, particularly in the context of electric vehicles.

He shares insights on the journey of battery recycling, debunks myths surrounding EV batteries, and highlights the current state of battery recycling in the UK.

Robin emphasizes the importance of consumer responsibility, the risks associated with second-life batteries, and the future of battery recycling in relation to the automotive industry and gigafactories.

Guest Details:

Robin Brundle is Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Recyclus Group, leading the rollout of proven, industrial-scale lithium-ion battery recycling technology. Since July 2023, Recyclus has demonstrated safe, effective, and sustainable battery processing and now focuses on scaling operations and advancing next-generation recycling. He is also Executive Chairman of Technology Minerals PLC and played a key role in its 2021 London Stock Exchange listing. A recognised policy voice, Robin sits on UK government battery and critical minerals taskforces and is a Trustee of The Faraday Institution, bringing over 30 years’ senior leadership across automotive, motorsport, and clean energy.

Robin's Website

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• Reviving EV Batteries: The Future of Remanufacturing - The EV Musings Podcast
• Gigafactory Commission Report

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

In this episode of The EV Musings Podcast, Gary discusses the impact of cold weather on electric vehicles, focusing on battery performance, heating solutions, and practical tips for driving in winter conditions.

He explains how cold temperatures affect battery chemistry, leading to reduced range, and offers insights into efficient heating methods, including the use of heat pumps and heated accessories.

The episode concludes with essential tips for maximising EV performance in cold weather.

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• Range test: How far can electric cars go in winter?

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

Global Women in EV Day

This episode is supported by Global Women in EV Day, an international movement founded by Gill Nowell to celebrate and accelerate the women driving the EV transition. Launching globally on 10 February 2026, the campaign brings the sector together around visibility, equity and action.

Global Women in EV Day

In this episode, Gary Comerford interviews Paul Pschierer-Barnfather, a product strategist at Zaptec, to explore the concept of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. Paul defines V2G as a system where electric vehicles (EVs) can both draw energy from and supply energy back to the grid, effectively acting as large batteries.

He contrasts this with vehicle-to-load (V2L) systems, which allow vehicles to power devices directly but do not connect to the grid. The conversation delves into the technical complexities of V2G, including the necessary hardware and software components, and the potential benefits for both individual EV owners and the broader energy system, particularly in terms of utilizing renewable energy more efficiently.

Paul emphasizes the importance of interoperability among vehicles, chargers, and energy providers to make V2G a mainstream reality. He discusses current limitations, such as the lack of widespread V2G-enabled vehicles and the need for specific communication standards. The episode concludes with a look at the future of V2G technology, highlighting ongoing trials and the potential for significant cost savings in electricity bills for consumers. Overall, the discussion provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and their role in sustainable energy management.

Takeaways:

1. Vehicle to grid allows EVs to act as batteries for the grid.
2. V2G is technically complex but offers significant benefits.
3. Interoperability among vehicles, chargers, and energy providers is crucial for V2G's success.
4. Current EVs often lack the necessary technology for V2G.
5. The future of V2G looks promising with ongoing trials and advancements.

Guest Details:

Paul Pschierer-Barnfather is the EV Charging Solutions Expert for Zaptec, a Norwegian chargepoint manufacturer. With 30 years of experience in the electricity industry, he currently leads Zaptec's vehicle-to-grid development programme, and is also Acting Chair of the BEAMA Electric Transport Systems Technical Committee.

Paul's Website

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• Octopus Energy Power Pack Bundle
• The Commercial EV Musings Podcast - The playlist that will contain all new video episodes of the B2b Commercial EV Musings Podcast. (Youtube only)
• Vehicle-to-grid - Wikipedia

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

Mentioned in this episode:

Zapmap

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence. Zapmap is free to download and use, with subscription plans for enhanced features such as using Zapmap in-car on CarPlay or Android Auto, and discounted charging across thousands of charge points.

Zapmap EV Guide

In this episode of the podcast Gary talks with three senior executives from within the EV industry in the end of season round table episode.

Vicky Read is the CEO of Charge UK, the industry body representing the ChargePoint operators

Tanya Sinclair is the CEO of Electric Vehicles UK, a body representing the EV industry

Vicky Edmond's is the CEO of EVA England, a body representing electric vehicles drivers and advocating for them with government.

As you can imagine with such luminaries on the round table the thoughts and opinions were varied and detailed.

Amongst many other topics we discussed:

- the budget

- the role of government vs private investment in the EV transition

- the state of the EV market and whether prices are going up or coming down

- charging issues and how these are being addressed

- and, of course, misinformation in the industry and why it is so detrimental.

The conversation covers the roles of various industry bodies, common concerns among EV drivers, the impact of government policies and budget decisions, consumer experiences with charging infrastructure, and the challenges posed by misinformation. The panelists emphasize the need for collaboration among industry stakeholders to improve the EV landscape and address the barriers to adoption.

Takeaways

• The EV industry is represented by various organizations with distinct roles.
• Consumer perception often lags behind the actual improvements in EV technology and infrastructure.
• Government policies significantly impact the EV market, but industry-driven initiatives are crucial.
• Public charging costs have risen, affecting consumer adoption of EVs.
• Misinformation about EVs can deter potential buyers and influence public perception.
• The transition to EVs requires a seamless experience for consumers, including reliable charging infrastructure.
• Emotional barriers, such as fear of the unknown, play a significant role in EV adoption.
• Collaboration among industry bodies is essential to address common challenges.
• The used EV market needs to be developed to support broader adoption.
• Ongoing communication and education are vital to counter misinformation and build consumer confidence.

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• Electric Vehicles UK - Electric Vehicles UK.
• EVA England | The Voice for EV Drivers : EVA England - Become a member!
• Charge UK Website

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings 

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium

In this conversation, Ben Nelmes, Chief Executive of New Automotive, discusses the organization's role in supporting the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK. He shares insights on EV sales, market dynamics, the impact of the ZEV mandate, and the importance of charging infrastructure. The discussion also covers the cost analysis of electric vehicles, budget implications for EV owners, and the future of EV sales in the US. Overall, the conversation highlights the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the critical role of data and research in facilitating this transition.

Guest Details:

Ben Nelmes - Executive Director of New AutoMotive

Ben's Website

@bennelmes on X

The EV Musings Podcast is sponsored by Zapmap, the go-to app for EV drivers, helping you find and pay for public charging with confidence.

Links in the show notes:

• eVED Calculator
• Ben on the Full Circle CI podcast
• Electric Boat Goes 200 Miles In Norway - CleanTechnica - Cool Thing

Episode produced by Arran Sheppard at Urban Podcasts: https://www.urbanpodcasts.co.uk

(C) 2019-2026 Gary Comerford

Support me:

Patreon Link: http://www.patreon.com/evmusings

Ko-fi Link: http://www.ko-fi.com/evmusings 

The Books:

'So, you've gone electric?' on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07Q5JVF1X

'So, you've gone renewable?’ on Amazon : https://amzn.to/3LXvIck

Social Media:

EVMusings: Twitter https://twitter.com/MusingsEv

Instagram: @EVmusings

Octopus Energy referral code (Click this link to get started) https://share.octopus.energy/neat-star-460

Upgrade to smarter EV driving with a free week's trial of Zapmap Premium, find out more here https://evmusings.com/zapmap-premium