Ever feel like you're overpaying for car insurance based on outdated factors like your age or postcode?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• Telematics adjusts based on actual driving, not outdated assumptions.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?

The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) isn’t limited to passenger cars—it’s rapidly reshaping commercial fleets, from delivery vans to supermarket lorries. While electrifying fleets comes with challenges, it also unlocks significant opportunities.

Ian Dennis, Head of EV Fleet at Zenobe, recently shared his insights on Auto Futurecast, explaining why now is the time to act. Here’s what we learned from his expertise.

Key Takeaways from Zenobe's Ian Dennis

1. Depot Charging Is Essential

For most fleets, depot charging remains the most cost-effective option, offering electricity rates as low as 15p per kWh, compared to 89p at public chargers. However, grid connection issues can complicate implementation. Solutions like shared charging hubs, where multiple operators share infrastructure, are already being trialled by Zenobe in Australia.

2. Operational Changes Are Key

Switching to EVs requires a shift in mindset. Instead of the traditional “fill up and go” model, operators must optimise mandatory rest breaks for opportunity charging. This shift relies on adopting a data-driven approach to managing routes and energy use efficiently.

3. Second-Life Batteries Offer New Opportunities

Used EV batteries still hold significant capacity and can be refurbished for second-life uses, such as powering shuttle buses or construction sites. Zenobe is working to establish a circular economy for batteries, aiming to recycle up to 98-99% of their materials.

4. The Market Is Shifting Quickly

Early adopters like Amazon are already scaling their electric fleets, driven by lower fuel and maintenance costs. With growing demand for zero-emission logistics, businesses delaying electrification risk falling behind. Zenobe advises: start small, think big, and scale fast.

5. Don’t Wait for Perfection

Future solutions like megawatt charging and hydrogen technologies may be promising, but operators should focus on what’s achievable today. Start with vehicles like vans and rigid trucks up to 18 tonnes that return to a depot daily. With 2035/2040 deadlines approaching, now is the time to gain experience and adapt.

The Importance of Fleet Electrification

Electrifying fleets isn’t just about replacing diesel vehicles—it’s about overhauling the entire logistics system. Early adopters will benefit from lower costs, reduced emissions, and a competitive edge.

The shift to EVs is well underway. The real question isn’t if your fleet should electrify, but how and when.

Catch the full episode with Ian Dennis on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube to learn more about the future of fleet electrification.

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.

Stay Updated

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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.

New episodes every two weeks!
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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.
• Far East Battery (FEB): 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

Stay Connected

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After years of setbacks and overhyped promises, self-driving car revolution is quietly becoming a reality.

The latest episode of Auto Futurecast dives into this transformation, Chris and co-host Natalie Sauber, Global Ecosystems Development Director for Arcadis, were joined by Martyn Briggs, Director at Bank of America. Together, they unpack the journey of autonomous vehicles (AVs) from ambitious beginnings to their growing presence on our streets.

As Martyn puts it, “This used to be a moonshot. Now it’s a soon shot.” With technology, infrastructure, and market conditions finally aligning, widespread AV adoption is no longer a distant goal—it’s happening now.

Autonomous Vehicles Are Already Here
AVs are no longer an experiment. In several cities, you can already hail a self-driving car, just like you would with Uber or Lyft. Companies like Waymo operate fleets of over 1,500 vehicles in the U.S., with plans to expand to 3,500 by the end of the year.

The market potential is massive. As Martyn notes, “We’re looking at a $1.2 trillion total addressable market for the tech alone, with the broader impact reaching $10 to $20 trillion or more when you consider the entire task economy.”

What’s Driving the AV Revolution?
Three key breakthroughs have made AVs commercially viable:

1. AI and Machine Learning:
   Modern AVs use advanced AI to process sensor data in real-time, making quick decisions that rival human drivers. These systems continuously improve with every mile driven, creating a feedback loop that boosts safety and efficiency.
2. Virtual Simulation:
   Developers use advanced simulation tools to test millions of scenarios virtually, speeding up development. Scenarios too dangerous to test on the road can be safely recreated, and generative AI helps explain how these systems make decisions—critical for gaining public trust.
3. Lower Hardware Costs:
   Sensors like LiDAR, once prohibitively expensive, are now produced at a fraction of their original cost. This affordability makes large-scale deployment economically feasible.

Collaboration is Key
Natalie Sauber emphasises the importance of collaboration: “It’s an ecosystem thing. No single entity can do it alone, it requires tech providers, OEMs, governments, and urban planners working together.”

Sustainability Fuels Adoption
Beyond convenience, AVs promise significant environmental benefits. By optimizing ride-sharing and fleet usage, they can reduce the total number of cars on the road. Autonomous systems also encourage efficient driving patterns, minimizing aggressive acceleration, optimizing routes, and smoothing traffic flow, all of which reduce emissions and energy consumption.

Building Social Acceptance
Technological advancements are only half the battle; societal acceptance is just as crucial. Gradual integration is key. As Martyn explains, early examples like robotic delivery services in residential areas initially drew curiosity but quickly became commonplace. This shows that when benefits are clear, people adapt quickly to new technology.

The Future of Transportation
After years of uncertainty, the autonomous vehicle industry is entering its next chapter. The technology is ready, the business models are maturing, and the ecosystem is coming together. While challenges remain, the question is no longer if AVs will transform transportation, it’s when.

Want to learn more?

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Electric vehicles are transforming the automotive landscape, but many fleet managers are hitting an unexpected roadblock: skyrocketing insurance premiums. While the long-term benefits of electrification are clear, the short-term insurance costs can be up to 25% higher than for traditional vehicles. So, what’s driving this trend?

In our latest episode Marc Spurling from Aon breaks down the complexities:

Why is EV Insurance So Expensive?
The insurance industry is grappling with what Aon calls "four megatrends"—weather, technology, trade, and people which complicate risk assessment for everyone. For EVs, this creates a few specific hurdles:

• Limited Historical Data: Compared to petrol or diesel cars with decades of claims history, EVs are still the new kids on the block. With less data to work from, insurers tend to play it safe and set higher premiums. As Marc puts it, "With limited data, trends are amplified into perceived substantial risks."
• Supply Chain and Repair Complexity: Modern EVs are essentially computers on wheels. A minor bump can damage sophisticated sensors or LIDAR systems, requiring specialist technicians and manufacturer-approved parts, both of which are in short supply. This complexity drives up repair costs and vehicle downtime, which in turn inflates insurance rates.

The Hidden Risk: Charging Infrastructure
Beyond the vehicles themselves, transitioning to an electric fleet introduces a new layer of risk that many fleet managers overlook: the charging infrastructure.

Property insurers are still cautious about the fire risks associated with EV charging, often imposing strict restrictions or hiking up premiums. Many businesses only discover these hurdles after they’ve started their electrification journey, leading to unexpected costs and delays. Furthermore, installing multiple charging points can strain a building’s power grid, and the space needed for a safe setup is often underestimated.

However, some forward-thinking companies are turning this challenge into a revenue stream. First Bus, for example, has created multi-use charging hubs that generate income by charging other vehicles during off-peak hours.

Is Data-Driven Insurance the Answer?
The idea that connected vehicle data would revolutionise insurance with pay-per-use models sounded promising, but the reality is more complicated.

Marc offers a sharp insight: "Data is the new oil, but crude oil needs to be refined to be useful, and the same goes for data." Early models that simply tracked mileage were too simplistic, three miles in central London carries far more risk than three miles on a rural motorway. Today, the focus is shifting to behavioural data to create a more accurate picture of risk.

What Are Smart Fleet Managers Doing?
Leading fleet managers aren’t waiting for the market to change; they’re taking control.

1. Embracing Early Adoption: Businesses already operating EV fleets are seeing the benefits of lower maintenance costs and improved reliability. As they build a positive risk profile, their insurance premiums are gradually coming down.
2. Practising Proactive Risk Management: Top performers work with specialised brokers to create tailored policies. By highlighting proactive measures like advanced driver training and vehicle monitoring, they can secure better terms.
3. Planning Infrastructure Early: A successful transition involves collaborating with property insurers and engineers before installing charging stations to address power, space, and safety requirements from the start.

The Road Ahead
Despite the hurdles, the future for electric fleets is bright. Advances in battery technology are reducing fire risks, and as the market matures, premiums are expected to stabilise.

Curious what goes into powering up the EV revolution? In the latest Auto Futurecast episode, we unpack the nuts and bolts of charging infrastructure with Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV.

Fast Facts from Our Conversation with Asif:

• Start-Up to Scale: Founded in 2021, Be.EV now operates across Greater Manchester, backed by £110 million from Octopus Energy Generation.
• Reality Check: Building charging sites isn’t plug-and-play—it involves site leases for 20-25 years, up to two years of development, and patient capital.
• Field Research: Be.EV’s team studies user behavior by spending hours in car parks, ensuring chargers fit people’s real routines.
• User Experience: Expectations have shifted:
• Early adopters loved to chat; today’s users just want quick, fuss-free charging.
• Supports contactless, app, and chip-and-pin payments to minimize friction.
• Auto-charge is the goal—a seamless, “just plug in and go” experience.
• Oasis Concept: The new Charging Oasis in Manchester breaks the petrol-station mold:
• Circular layout maximizes space and safety.
• Designed for how people actually behave during longer charging stops.
• Costs & Returns:
• £500K–£1M per site with a seven-year payback.
• Only 4% of cars are EVs now, but the real growth comes as numbers reach 30%.
• Lean core team (30–40 people); construction and maintenance are outsourced.
• Market Trends:
• Around 150 charge point operators in the UK—but consolidation is likely.
• Some seek site contracts first and hope funding follows; Be.EV secured funding up front for more stability.

Why It Matters:

• Cleaner Air: Cutting road emissions is core to Be.EV’s mission. Infrastructure is the foundation of a more sustainable transport future.
• Patience Required: Building for tomorrow’s demand means investing ahead of the curve and obsessing over the customer experience.

Want more?

We release a new episode every two weeks focussing on the latest trends in automotive, technology and the mobility space. Expect lots of talk around EVs, AI and AVs.

Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform or head on over to Youtube to view all episodes.

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