• Niall Riddell, CEO & Co-founder at Paua & co-host Chris Sass talk to Roger Atkins, Founder of Electric Vehicles Outlook Ltd. about the ‘EV Revolution Advocacy’.
• Link in blog to full episode

‍Roger Atkins, a prominent voice on electric vehicles, discusses his journey through the EV ecosystem.

With a background in the automotive industry in addition to experience at companies including Richard Branson's Virgin Cars, Atkins is well placed to discuss the challenges and successes of selling cars online and offers a valuable perspective on the past and future of the EV revolution. His emphasis on the importance of entrepreneurship and taking risks in the EV industry is a theme we see permeate throughout our conversation.

The emergence of China as an EV powerhouse

China is emerging as a dominant force in the electric vehicle industry, with companies like BYD and CATL playing a key role. The country has made significant progress in battery technology and is now in a position to dominate the EV landscape. Despite the challenges faced by startups like Modec, China's ambition for renewable energy vehicles has propelled its growth in the EV market.

China has emerged as a dominant force in the global electric vehicle market, with companies like CATL leading the production of battery cells. The country's focus on electric vehicles is driven by concerns about air quality in major cities and a desire to dominate the industry globally. China's strategy, known as "Made in China 2025," aims to surpass Western automakers in electric vehicle production. The entry of Tesla into the Chinese market has further accelerated competition and spurred innovation. South Korea, particularly Hyundai and Kia, has also made significant strides in the electric vehicle market. Western car manufacturers, such as Toyota and Volkswagen, face challenges in transitioning from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles due to entrenched hierarchies and resistance to change. New Chinese brands, along with established names like Tesla and Volkswagen, are making their mark in the market, signalling China's growing presence in the industry.

Chinese EV company Neo is championing battery swap technology, which allows for the quick exchange of batteries in electric vehicles. This approach failed in the past with Better Place, but Neo is being supported by the Chinese government and believes that battery swap has merit in managing renewable energy storage. Wireless charging is another technology that holds promise, especially for vehicles with closed-loop operations like buses and taxis. Tesla is expected to introduce wireless charging capabilities in its cars this year, after acquiring a German company with the necessary technology. While wireless charging is still in the early stages, it could potentially reduce the need for larger batteries and offer better range for electric vehicles.

The challenges to mass EV adoption

Mass adoption of electric vehicles is unlikely to happen, according to a transportation expert. Atkins argues that the utilisation rate of cars, whether petrol or electric, is only about 5-10 percent, meaning that the majority of the time these vehicles are not being used. Atkins suggests that instead of focusing on electric cars, there should be a shift towards shared vehicle platforms and autonomous vehicles. He believes that buses, taxis, vans, and trucks will see mass adoption of electric vehicles, while expensive electric vehicles will cater to those who can afford them. Atkins also emphasises the need for collaboration and diminishing geopolitical tensions in order to address issues such as climate change and air pollution.

Atkins & the ID.Buzz

Concluding on a lighter note, for Atkins, the ID.Buzz is his EV of choice, primarily due to its practicality and ability to accommodate his large dogs!

Listen to the full episode from Insiders Guide to Energy.