EV Powered Magazine - NOVEMBER 2022 EDITION

More and more businesses are using smart meters to help them feel more in control of their budgeting.

Smart meters send gas and electricity readings straight to their supplier. So rather than estimates, Frank here knows he’ll receive accurate energy bills. And that means he’ll know exactly how much he’s spending each month.

Search ‘get a smart meter’ today.

What have I missed? EDITOR’S NOTE

Itreated myself to a couple of weeks off at the start of October and whilst I was away, I switched my phone off and tried to complete a mini social media detox. Although it was refreshing to put the gadgets down and have a breather, it was great to see that, whilst I was away, it was business as usual for the EV world.

More plans for EV chargers, new cars on the way, loads of innovation and even bloody NASA getting in on the act (you can read about that on page 7). The wheels keep on turning for this brilliant industry, and there’ll be plenty more to come this year and as we turn the corner into 2023.

In this issue, however, we focus on what’s already out there, particularly with our ‘Top Ten’ feature for this month, which looks at the best family-friendly cars around. Whether you need an EV for long drives on days out with the kids, or if safety and reliability are top of your list of priorities, this list breaks down the best choices for you and your family. Head over to page 27 for this special feature.

One car that might not be suited to a family of four but is still worth fourpages in our magazine is the brilliant-but-bitesize Citroën Ami. Our Managing Director, Richard Alvin, was able to get behind the wheel last month and he’ll share his first impressions of the quirky quadricycle on page 15.

We’ll also have an in-depth review of the Mercedes EQA, a look ahead to the final round of Extreme E’s second season, and a chat with Ken McMeikan, CEO of Moto Hospitality, who discusses the company’s commitment to electric vehicles.

There’s lots more inside, but I would like to take this space of the issue to express EV Powered’s collective sadness at the passing

of Dietrich Mateschitz, the co-owner of Red Bull. Dietrich passed away in October and left behind a tremendous legacy in the form of the Red Bull energy drink empire, which ultimately led to the conception of the F1 giants Red Bull Racing. Although Dietrich has left a lasting impression on Formula One, many Formula E drivers will have him to thank as a result of the Red Bull Driver Program. The likes of former FE World Champion Seb Buemi passed through this academy, as well as others such as Jean-Éric Vergne, Sérgio Sette Câmara and António Félix da Costa. I would like to personally thank Dietrich for his contribution to the growth and success of Formula E, and Red Bull sealing the F1 constructors’ championship (and Max claiming the drivers’ championship) at the US Grand Prix was a truly fitting way to commemorate such a great man.

AMAZON to add 700 e-lorries to UK fleet to cut pollution in £300M pledge

Amazon has confirmed plans to put 700 electric heavy goods vehicles on the UK’s roads in the next five years.

In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, the online retailer will pledge to inject £300 million into transforming its fleet. It already uses five e-HGVs in the UK. Across Europe the business will announce a package of €1 billion for more than 1,500 of the vehicles.

To power its e-HGVs the company plans to build hundreds of fast chargers at its European and UK

warehouses, allowing it to charge the vehicles in approximately two hours. This year the company said that it would pump more than £200 million into a zero-emission road freight programme. Under the plans vehicle manufacturers, energy suppliers and fleet operators have been asked to demonstrate their technology with the aim of introducing hundreds more zero-emission HGVs across the country.

said: “Deploying thousands of electric vans, long-haul trucks and bikes will help us shift further away from traditional fossil fuels. [It will] hopefully further encourage transportation and automotive industries in Europe and around the world to continue scaling and innovating, as we will have to work together to reach our climate goals.”

Andy Jassy, Amazon’s chief executive,

UK electric vehicle start-up ARRIVAL to move to ‘incentive friendly’ US

Arrival, one of Britain’s most exciting automotive zeroemission start-ups, is to quit the country for the United States, where it says incentives are better for the industry.

South Africa to host its first Formula E race in Cape Town

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to race in Cape Town, South Africa for the first time in February 2023, following approval by the FIA World Motor Sport Council.

Formula E champion Nyck de Vries joins F1 grid

Formula E 2021 champion Nyck de Vries will join the Formula 1 grid next season having signed with AlphaTauri.

Arrival has scrapped plans to build electric vans for groups including UPS and electric buses for FirstGroup at its Oxfordshire microfactory. Instead, it is to divert assembly to America. The abrupt change came three weeks after the first electric delivery van, which was four years in development, came out of production at its factory in Bicester.

The decision will cost hundreds of jobs in the UK and ends hopes that the business will expand in Britain, ultimately producing thousands of new jobs. The company had claimed that it would become a ‘British Tesla’ for the light commercial vehicle market and would build 10,000 electric

vans a year at Bicester, with the opportunity to add further similarly sized factories.

Arrival said: “The major factors in the company’s decision to shift focus to developing its US business included the tax credit recently announced as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, expected to offer between $7,500 to $40,000 for commercial vehicles; the large addressable market size; and substantially better margins. Scaling production in Bicester requires significant further investment in hard tooling and working capital and the company has determined that the benefits of such an investment would be best directed to the US market.”

Formula E’s global audience grows to record breaking levels

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship saw a cumulative audience of 381 million for Season 8, up 20% on the previous campaign.

Vandoorne joins DS Automobiles & PENSKE AUTOSPORT for Season 9

Reigning Formula E World Champion Stoffel Vandoorne has signed for DS Automobiles & PENSKE AUTOSPORT, where he will team up with Jean-Éric Vergne for Season 9..

GERMANY to spend 6.3 billion euros on push for electric car charging points

The German government has approved a plan to spend 6.3 billion euros over three years to rapidly scale up the number of charging stations for electric vehicles across the country, as part of its push towards net zero emissions.

The plan envisages a 14-fold increase in the number of charging stations, climbing to 1 million by 2030 from around 70,000 now. It would focus on building them in local municipalities which are currently undersupplied. It also aims to have 15 million electric vehicles on German roads by 2030 from around 1.5 million now. Other measures in the government’s plan include speeding up state approvals to build charging points.

NASA space tech could result in electric cars being charged in just five minutes

A new NASA-funded technology for future space missions may charge an electric car in just five minutes on Earth, the US space agency said.

BMW has announced that it will invest $1.7 billion to build electric vehicles in the United States, with $700 million to be spent on a new high-voltage battery assembly facility in South Carolina.

Volkswagen saw deliveries of all-electric vehicles grow by 25% in the first nine months of the year, with 366,400 BEVs handed over in that period.

Researchers at Purdue University developed the Flow Boiling and Condensation Experiment (FBCE), a technique that results in greatly improved heat transfer effectiveness compared to other approaches and could be used to control the temperatures of future systems in space.

This technology can also have applications on Earth: It could make owning an electric car more appealing, the researchers said. Reducing the charging time for electric vehicles to five minutes — an industry goal — will require charging systems to provide current at 1,400 amperes.

Subcooled flow boiling allows the team to deliver 4.6 times the current of the fastest available electric vehicle chargers on the market today by removing up to 24.22 kilowatts of heat. The charging cable can provide 2,400 amperes, which is far beyond the 1,400 amperes required to reduce time required to charge an electric car to five minutes.

“Application of this new technology resulted in unprecedented reduction of the time required to charge a vehicle and may remove one of the key barriers to worldwide adoption of electric vehicles,” the researchers added.

Software development issues have delayed the release of the all-electric Porsche Macan, with the German manufacturer revealing that the new EV will not be ready until 2024.

Students at the University of Stuttgart have developed the world’s quickest electric vehicle, with the EV shooting from 0-62mph in a blistering 1.461 seconds.

Troubled battery start-up Britishvolt could collapse within the next two months if £200m of emergency funding is not found, according to a report.

The MOTO WAY

In this interview, Ken McMeikan, CEO of Moto Hospitality, discusses its commitment to electric vehicles and how its partnership with GRIDSERVE is helping electrify the UK’s motorway network.

When

did

Moto’s interest and commitment to electric vehicle charging begin?

At Moto, we’re driven by our vision of transforming the UK’s rest stop experience and the opportunity to revolutionise the UK motorway network. We have been rolling out EV chargers for more than a decade but over the past two to three years we have taken our commitment to a new level with plans to roll out 350kWh chargers at our sites and create “super hub” charging destinations for motorists, like the one launched at Rugby 18 months ago. Our aim for EV charging is for all drivers to feel super confident when they make the switch from ICE to EV, safe in the knowledge that they don’t need to worry about driving range on UK motorways. By making charging fast, simple and reliable we believe we can continue to give EV drivers this confidence.

MOTO WAY

We now have more than 300 chargers across Moto sites in the UK as of September 2022. That figure is growing as we continue to launch more EV super hubs with the aim of meeting the Government’s 2023 target of having a minimum of six high power chargers at each of our sites.

We’re working relentlessly to roll out high powered charging for all our UK sites as quickly as possible over the next 12-18 months. We are on track to deliver a minimum of six high powered charging points at every Moto site by the end of 2023, in line with the Government’s target and, in a great deal of cases, double or even more than double that number, in order to future-proof our sites and manage the rapidly growing demand for charge points.

McMeikan, CEO of Moto Hospitality

The biggest issues we’re facing are managing the requirement for power networks and charging operators to build ahead of demand and the long delivery times associated with bringing charge points online. These long delivery times are attributable to issues with planning, landlord permissions and legal complexity. In addition, further guidance from Government on funding and planning in relation to EVs would help to really accelerate the process at certain locations where the cost of power upgrades is exceptionally high and prohibitive.

Specifically, we need better accessibility to the £1 billion fund that the Government has set aside to assist the roll out of the EV charging network across the UK. We’d also like to see local authorities given much more specific guidance on the requirements for MSA provision in order to create a quicker and more streamlined decision-making process in terms of planning consent for both site developments and connections to the power network. From our point of view, this is one of the largest stumbling blocks in accelerating our EV charging capacity and one which the Government can help address to give us the greatest opportunity in delivering for all motorists as they navigate the transition away from ICE vehicles.

In your opinion, do you consider electric vehicles to be the future of all transportation?

EVs currently remain the key alternative to ICE vehicles that can be manufactured, purchased and maintained at scale. Other alternatives may materialise in the longer term, but as things stand, and if we are to ensure that the UK meets its emissions targets now, then we must work to make EVs as accessible to people as possible.

How many charging stations are currently in operation across Moto sites in the UK?

What plans are there to grow the number of charging points at motorway hubs?

What are some of the most significant challenges that come with introducing charging points to motorway services?

Ken

AN

INTERVIEW

This is another reason why Moto fully supports the government’s agenda on green transport, and the faster legislation and guidance can keep pace and support the investments we and others are making, the easier it will be to get the infrastructure in place so motorists are encouraged to switch to EV.

Moto takes the safety and wellbeing of all customers very seriously with teams working on-site 24/7 who are able to help customers with any issues they may face.

Customers are encouraged to speak to staff in order to resolve or highlight any safety issues they may come across and if anyone is having an issue with accessing a chargepoint we help them access the service if they ask in the main building.

All of Moto’s EV bays are extra wide, making them all suitable for disabled access, but, the creation of dedicated disabled EV bays is something that we are looking to progress as the switch to EV gathers pace. For example, we have actively engaged in the development of the latest British Standards Institution’s PAS (Publicly Available Specification) on accessible charging for electric vehicles and fully support the recommendations initially put forward on space surrounding accessible charge points.

What can we expect to see from Moto and Gridserve from now until the end of the year?

We are continuing to revolutionise the motorway rest stop experience together, by launching new electric vehicle super-hubs up and down the country to provide motorists the infrastructure they need to charge their vehicles reliably, simply and quickly. Our partnership brings together one of the UK’s largest provider of EV chargers and the largest provider of motorway services. We’re aligned not only on the delivery of EV chargers but on the manner and scale in which we do it, together. Fundamentally, we want to change how people think of and use motorway service areas and EV charging is a fundamental part of that future.

Moto is committed to ensuring that it can provide an exceptional EV charging service across its network and is focused on reliability, simplicity and speed. ” “

Are there any plans to make future and existing EV chargers more accessible?

11 THE MOTO WAY INTERVIEW AN

What are the main USP’s for Moto and Gridserve’s EV chargers?

Moto is committed to ensuring that it can provide an exceptional EV charging service across its network and is focused on reliability, simplicity and speed.

As our network expands, we’re doing all we can to ensure that customers can always rely on charge points at Moto sites. Moto conducts regular maintenance checks on all its charging points to ensure they are fully operational so drivers can be confident

about their ability to charge at Moto. GRIDSERVE also remotely monitor charging points, both proactively, and reactively for issues reported by customers. Where issues with a charge point at a Moto site are detected and can’t be fixed remotely, an engineer will be sent out the same day if reported before 1pm. For customers requiring extra support, GRIDSERVE also operates a 24/7 hotline, 365 days a year. All this means that GRIDSERVE averages 99% reliability across its network – including at Moto sites.

We also know how important ease of charging point use is to EV motorists – particularly to those new to EV ownership. All the GRIDSERVE Electric Super Hubs at MOTO locations have been designed to feature both CCS and CHAdeMO connectors, accept contactless payments and provide at least one extra-wide accessible charging bay for every six EV charging spaces. With real-time status updates shared with a myriad of the most popular EV charging maps, including Zap-Map, drivers can have complete confidence in the rapidly expanding network, knowing the availability of chargers before arriving at MOTO’s sites.

And, last but not least our GRIDSERVE 350kW-capable high power chargers are supplied by renewable, net zero carbon energy can deliver up to 100 miles of range in less than ten minutes so our EV customers can recharge their cars fast.

EXTREME E

SEASON 2 HOME STRAIGHT

The end is in sight for the second season of Extreme E, with the teams’ and drivers’ heading to Punta Del Este for the season finale. In this feature, we look ahead to the series’ first outing in Uruguay, whilst also assessing the favourites to claim the Championship.

LAST TIME OUT

In Round 4 of Extreme E’s second season, it was the X44 Vida Carbon Racing pairing of Sébastien Loeb and Cristina Gutiérrez that claimed top spot, despite finishing second behind NEOM McLaren Extreme E.

McLaren’s Emma Gilmour and Tanner Foust thought they had secured their first Extreme E victory as they crossed the line, but penalties saw McLaren pushed down to fifth, lifting X44 up to first for their first victory of the season.

Championship leaders Rosberg X Racing were absent from the final due to technical issues, meaning all three of their main Championship rivals could gain some ground heading into the fifth and final race of the season.

CHAMPIONSHIP CONTENDERS

Despite missing out on the final last time out, Rosberg X Racing remain favourites to claim their second successive Extreme E title, thanks to their three straight wins at the start of the campaign.

Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson sit at the top of the Championship on 83 points, 17 points ahead of their closest rivals, X44 Vida Carbon Racing.

Rosberg X Racing may be favourites to retain their Extreme E crown, but having failed to register any points in Chile, the door remains open for the X44 team.

Although X44’s Sébastien Loeb and Cristina Gutiérrez have the opportunity to cause an upset when the series takes over Uruguay later this month, the odds are stacked against them, and they will need to hope for another Rosberg mishap in the season finale.

In order to claim the Championship, X44 will need a minimum of 18 points, which can be secured with a second-place finish in the final – That is if Rosberg X Racing fail to register any points at all.

Rosberg X Racing will practically secure the title if they qualify for the final, with the minimum ten points for a fifth placed finish taking them out of reach of X44 and any other teams. So, barring any disqualifications, Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson will just have to land themselves a spot in the final to take home their second Extreme E title in as many seasons.

ENERGY X-PRIX

The stage is set for the finale of Extreme E’s second season, and the ten teams will be battling out in the coastal town of Punta del Este, Uruguay.

The series is following in the footsteps of Formula E, where it raced from 2014 to 2015 and in 2018. However, as is the nature of FE, those races took place on a street circuit within the city’s harbour, and whilst details of the Extreme E circuit are unclear at the moment, it is unlikely that XE follow a similar pattern, considering its commitment to leaving a region as untouched as possible upon departing.

Instead, Extreme E will likely set up along the sandy beaches or through the long grass of Punta Del Este’s outskirts. The Energy X-Prix will be Extreme E’s long-awaited debut in Uruguay, with the destination having previously been listed on the race calendar before the Covid-19 pandemic caused the event to be postponed last year.

The final race of the season is also rumoured to be opening its doors to spectators, according to multiple reports. Since its very first season, Extreme E has not allowed fans in due to the remote locations and the environmental impact on the areas it races in.

Meetings have supposedly taken place between Extreme E officials and representatives from Uruguay’s FIA member organisation Automovil Club del Uruguay (ACU), Energy X Prix promoter Sportlink, and local authorities of the Maldonado and nearby Montevideo Departments, to discuss the possibility of admitting spectators. Extreme E has yet to confirm whether fans will be allowed in or not, however.

CANYON GRAIL: ON CF 7 REVIEW

BY RICHARD

Canyon’s radical Grail design, with its angular frame and unique bi-plane style cockpit, was divisive when it launched as a gravel bike. The electrified Grail:ON version, however, looks like a much more complete machine.

The sculpted frame and integrated cockpit balance well with the oversized down tube, which hides the 500Wh PowerTube battery, while the oversized bottom bracket with its Gen 4 Bosch motor makes for a muscular, futuristic electric gravel bike and at £4599.00 is aggressively priced.

This CF 7 build is very well thought out. Aside from the hugely powerful motor, you get Fizik’s excellent Argo saddle sitting atop the cushioning comfort of the leaf-sprung VCLS seatpost.

The bike rolls on DT Swiss’ hardy HG1800 alloy gravel bike wheels. Smartly, Canyon uses smaller 650b wheels on the extra-small and small sizes, moving up to 700c wheels on the medium-sized bike and above.

Up-front is perhaps the most contentious part of the Grail design: the Biplane CP07 cockpit. This setup has a lower bar feeding into the integrated stem, anchoring mid-way on the hook of the drops, while the higher wing is designed to flex in the centre.

ALVIN

The offset wings make it hard to fit a bar bag easily and mounting a bike computer is a little awkward too.

Yes, the bar does offer flex in the centre of the top wing, which is fine for when you’re cruising along spinning. However, it feels just like any other bar when riding on the hoods or the drops, only a little more awkward.

Initially, I thought Canyon’s use of the simple Purion head unit was a bit of a cost-cutting measure when it could have used Bosch’s smart Kiox head unit and remote control, as on Cannnodale’s Topstone Neo Lefty. However, that would have been a challenge to fit to this bar setup.

The Purion, with its left-sided buttons, mounted on the far left of the lower bar, is within easy reach of your thumb when riding on the hoods or drops.

The display offers simple information, displaying current power mode and battery level. On the bottom edge is a Walk+ button. Activate this when you’re wheeling the bike and it’ll give a little assistance – useful if you’re pushing up a steep slope.

CANYON GRAIL: ON CF 7 RIDE IMPRESSIONS

Putting aside the Grail:ON’s opinion-dividing looks, what I absolutely love about the CF 7 is just

how great it rides when the going gets rough. The 50mm Schwalbe G-One Bites roll surprisingly briskly on tarmac and excel on dirt and shale.

I was also impressed with the bolder tread pattern that gives real cornering confidence in damper conditions too.

The bike’s comfort levels are great, especially at the back end, where the brilliant shape of the Argo saddle and compliant post combine to eliminate vibrations, jolts and jarring.

It is, however, when you combine these elements with the punch of the Bosch motor that things get really impressive and enjoyable.

Through the four simple settings: Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo, the motor injects assistance from a gentle push in the back through to a brutal punch that gives you the potential to ascend steep offroad climbs that simply wouldn’t be possible on a standard non-assisted gravel bike.

The Eco setting provides the lowest assistance level but the highest potential range (according to Bosch’s own range calculator, around 88 miles).

At the other end of the scale, Turbo mode serves up power far beyond its nominal 250w rating, but this shortens range to under 30 miles.

If you’re looking to get as much range as possible, Turbo should only be used sparingly... no matter how much fun it is.

As with all of the best electric bikes, the electric motor only engages when you pedal and – more importantly – it will stop assisting at 15.5mph according to the current law for ebikes (though the EU law allows for a 10 per cent margin, so that could be as high as 17.5mph).

Ultimately, the Grail:ON’s power delivery is impressive and it integrates the Bosch system as well as any ebike I’ve ridden. The range really impressed too: I maxed out the CF 7 at best with 88.25m/142km, taking in 3,018.3ft/920m on a test ride that included fewer than 5 miles/8km of tarmac.

The Grail:ON is yet another shining example of why electric gravel bikes make so much sense. The aid to grip afforded by the addition of power means you can stay seated on steep low-traction climbs, and makes for the potential to take on a gravel bike route you’d have to bypass on a non-powered bike.

The best reason for choosing the CF 7 is that it’s just a huge amount of fun to ride.

Any bike that puts a smile on your face the moment you get on board and has the potential to keep you smiling all day is a winner in my book, and I wholeheartedly recommend the Grail:ON.

CITROËN’S ELECTRIC ‘MICROCAR’ IS TAKING OVER THE CITY INTRODUCING AMI:

The Citroën Ami is finally here! The order book for this French microcar has finally opened and we will soon see this fully electric Ami on roads all over the UK – but what is it really like?

Find out everything you need to know about the Citroën Ami in this feature, including our ‘first drive’ review!

There is nothing quite like the Citroën Ami. This weird, boxy electric quadricycle has reinvented the idea of urban mobility, yet despite obvious limitations, the Ami has already proved extremely popular.

The Citroën Ami 100% ëlectric arrived in the UK following huge public demand, with over 14,000 hand-raisers and 2,000 early reservists. Order books opened in September, and Citroën has already planned its successor to the Ami with the ‘Oli’ - a fully electric family car with a similar design to the Ami.

Clearly, Citroën sees these vehicles as the future, and the Ami in particular has been designed to exist in a world where EVs are the only vehicles on the road, alongside bicycles and other forms of clean mobility.

As major cities across the UK and Europe prepare to go all electric –Paris, for example, has outlined its plan to ICE vehicles from its roads from 2030 – vehicles like the Ami will be ideal choices.

There may be a place for it in the world, but what is the Ami actually like?

ABOUT THE AMI

Technically speaking, the Citroën Ami is a quadricycle – a European Union vehicle category for four-wheeled microcars, which allows these vehicles to be designed to less stringent requirements when compared to regular cars. This classification holds a different criteria for weight, engine power and speed.

That explains the unique design. With this classification, the Ami can be much smaller than a traditional car and also much lighter. Its compact design has been tailored for existing in packed city centres – At just 2.41m long and only 1.39m wide, the Ami takes up just half of a traditional parking space.

Obviously, with the size and weight of this vehicle, there are some compromises on safety in comparison to traditional cars, but Citroën states that it is safer and more practical alternative to two and three wheeled vehicles such as e-scooters.

AMI

With an on-the-road price starting from just £7,995, the Ami is also significantly cheaper than other electric vehicles, and Citroën is also currently offering financing options of just £19.99 a month. Various models of the Ami have been released – including the Ami Tonic, which offers greater range and new colours and stylings – slightly more expensive at £8,695. An ‘Ami Pop’ and larger ‘Ami Cargo’ option will also be made available.

As a 100% electric vehicle, it has a 5.5kWh battery that recharges in just three hours, which is handy considering it only offers a range of 46 miles. However, considering the average car journey in London is only eight miles (according to the government’s National Travel Survey 2021), that should be plenty, and you won’t drain the battery too quickly with its top speed of 28mph.

To celebrate the launch of Ami 100% ëlectric in the UK, Citroën has also partnered with charging provider ubitricity, a member of the Shell Group, to make owning and using Ami 100% ëlectric more accessible to those who do not have off-street parking. As part of Citroën’s ‘Power To The People’ philosophy – aiming to make electrification accessible by offering every kind of electric for all kinds of people – the first 2,000 UK customers of Ami 100% ëlectric will receive three months of free charging across ubitricity’s network of more than 5,400 lamppost chargers in Greater London and in a growing number of locations across the UK.

of ubitricity, said: “The visions of Citroën’s Ami and ubitricity’s lamp post charge points align neatly – they are minimalistic, space-saving and simple, with a low footprint, mindful of resources and affordable for everyone. In many of Europe’s cities, space is at a premium and for EV drivers without private parking, ubitricity’s lamp post charging solution offers convenient and affordable access to on-street charging right at their doorstep.”

In Europe, the partnership is focusing on making the switch to electric easier as more ubitricity chargers are becoming available in a growing number of countries across Europe for Citroën’s growing EV fleet, and the partnership will aim to accelerate this growth further.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Here at EV Powered, we are pleased to say that we are the proud owners of an Ami, which when wrapped will be easily spotted. Unfortunately our Ami has been slightly delayed, so what was going to Managing Director Richard Alvin’s first impressions of driving our own car has become our very first impressions of the vehicle after an extended test drive.

“The first thing that strikes you when you sit in the Ami is how much space you have and the well in front of the passenger seat allows for two or three shopping bags in front of even the tallest of passengers.”

“Taking into consideration the speed limitations, driving is very smooth and within a built-up environment you really do not notice the fact that you cannot go over 28 miles an hour. “

“Whilst build quality is good, speed bumps do remind you the outer shell of the car is lacking the normal level of metal usually found in such vehicles. The folding side windows made famous by Citroen with their 2CV could be interesting in the British winter, but I have to say I was smiling for every mile I drove the Ami.”

FINAL VERDICT

Whilst there are clear limitations and shortcomings in comparison to regular electric vehicles, the Ami needs to be considered and judged for its intended purpose. In a world that is accelerating towards an electric future, where the landscape of urban, inner-city mobility is changing, the Citroën Ami is a solid, future-proof option that combines fun and quirkiness with the requirements for modern transportation. The design is unique, whilst also offering handy practicalities such as a 7m turning circle. It is fun to drive, and perfect for nipping around the hustle and bustle of a major city such as London or Paris. The range is modest, but for its intended purpose, ample. This is not a car – or should I say microcar – that is designed for motorways and A-roads; the Ami is at home in the city, and it has been designed and engineered excellently to thrive in that environment.

As Citroën gets set to launch its next electric microcar, the ‘Oli’, we can be sure to expect more of these vehicles coming to the market from all other manufacturers, and if they all follow in the footsteps of the Ami, then the future of urban mobility really is exciting.

Daniel Kunkel, CEO

The Ami is at home in the city, and it has been designed and engineered excellently to thrive in that environment. ”

“

MERCEDES EQA

In this feature, Charlie Atkinson reviews his very own Mercedes EQA! Find out why he chose it, what he likes most about it and what annoys him in this long-term review!

BY CHARLIE ATKINSON

In my role as editor of EV Powered, I have reviewed a number of electric vehicles and shared my honest thoughts on them, before either recommending them or telling people to steer clear. Now, however, it is time to review my very own car: The Mercedes EQA.

I have been living with this car for more than six months and, in that time, I have found out everything there is to know about the car, including what I like about it, what I don’t like, what some of the annoying features are and what’s surprised me about it.

HOW IT LOOKS

You don’t have to look too closely to spot the similarities to the Mercedes GLA, because the EQA is quite simply the electric al-

ternative to the ‘baby’ Mercedes. However, you might notice that this electric SUV has got a bit more size and presence to it than the original, and that is because of the battery.

The floor-mounted battery means the EQA stands slightly taller than the GLA, and it is slightly wider, too. It also has a few design tweaks, such as the full-length light bar at the rear, and the fake grille at the front, but other than that, it is pretty much identical to the GLA.

Obviously, as I chose this car, I am going to be a fan of this cars design, but I do acknowledge the comments about this car being a bit boring and conventional looking. There are, of course, better looking alternatives out there, namely the Audi Q4 e-tron and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, but I like my cars to be quite understated, and that’s exactly what the EQA is.

MERCEDES EQA REVIEW

SIZE MATTERS

My Mercedes EQA is a company car and I did have a few options to choose from, and it was a toss-up between this and the Tesla Model 3.

Anybody who has seen my review of the Tesla Model 3 on our YouTube channel will know that it is one of the electric vehicles that I have rated most highly, but the decision boiled down to size.

Although the Tesla Model 3 does offer plenty of space in the back and a boot capacity of 425L, which is far more than 340L you get in the EQA, the Tesla’s shallow saloon-style boot made this an impractical choice for my needs.

At EV Powered, we go all over the country filming electric cars and I often have lots of awkwardly shaped camera equipment

shoved into the boot of my car, and so a traditional, hatchback style boot was needed in order to cram all this gear into. When I’m not filming, I also have a dog crate in the boot of my car, which is far too tall for the Tesla’s boot.

Don’t get me wrong, I know it may seem silly to have chosen the EQA over the Model 3 just because of the shape of the boot, especially when the Model 3 offers a better range and performance package, but I also prefer the higher driving position you get with an SUV over the lower stance in the likes of a Tesla, so that also played a part in my decision.

This is not me saying the EQA is better than the Tesla; as I mentioned earlier, the Model 3 remains one of my favourite electric vehicles. Instead, the EQA was a better fit to my needs and my day-to-day life, but I do still have some complaints...

MERCEDES EQA REVIEW

WHAT’S IT LIKE ON THE INSIDE?

It’s a bit of a mixed bag once you get inside the EQA, unfortunately.

Immediately you are greeted by a premium interior, with lots of plush materials and an ambience that can be personalized, with 64 colours of interior lighting to choose from. For a car that costs upwards of £55,000, there is an expected level of quality inside the EQA.

There is an acceptable level of space up front, but you may feel quite squashed in the back, with a transmission tunnel that takes up some of your legroom and, despite this being taller than the GLA, headroom is a bit of squeeze, too.

You have two digital screens which dominate the dash, with the middle one your central hub of operations. Here, you can control most of the cars functions, although thankfully, you do still have manual switches for your heating and air conditioning, so you don’t have to fiddle around with a touchscreen if you want your temperature down by just a couple of degrees.

The EQA does support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but, for some reason, Mercedes still insists on you using a USB-C cable to connect your phone which is really frustrating, especially considering that your mobile won’t fit in its designated spot when you plug the cable in. A small point, but one to really bug you.

There are a few other annoying touches with this car, most notably on the steering wheel and the ‘strokeable’ controls, which allow you to navigate the infotainment screen and drivers display. Whilst I do use these to swipe through the different menus and screens, rather than the touch sensitive pad located between the seats, these are quite fiddly and oversensitive. On almost every journey, I have a fight with these buttons whilst simply trying to change the menu on my infotainment screen or select a new screen on the drivers display. Really frustrating and something that could have been avoided with the use of physical buttons on the steering wheel instead.

ON THE ROAD

Although the Tesla Model 3 beats this hands down for pace, the EQA does pack a bit of a punch for a chunky SUV. It’s not lightning quick - in fact, it’s anything but with a 0-60mph time of only 7.7 seconds - but for a car of this size, it feels really agile and nimble. It might look like a car that was built for just sitting on the motorway and cruising along, but with 225 horsepower, you can still have quite a lot of fun with this. When it comes to the performance of this car, I’ve got to say I was pleasantly surprised.

In terms of range, this particular model of the EQA is the 300 spec, which offers an official range of 264 miles. On average, I often get a real-world range of 210 miles which is more than enough. Other electric SUV models will offer greater ranges, such as the Kia eNiro for example, but it is still a decent range and *touches wood* I haven’t run out of power just yet!

Another aspect of this car that I do like is the regenerative braking. Personally, I like my regen-braking to be quite severe so that you can rely on one pedal driving, and the EQA is certainly up there with some of the most comfortable settings for regenerative braking in an electric car. There is a big drop off in the severity of the different settings, which are adjusted by flappy paddles behind the steering wheel, but once you find your feet with each setting, you can pretty much forget about the brake pedal, which is just perfect for me. Despite offering a decent range and a surprising amount of performance, the Mercedes EQA is just

MERCEDES EQA REVIEW

‘OK’ out on the road. It was never going to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model 3, and that’s not why I chose it, but in comparison to some of its main competitors, like the aforementioned Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Audi Q4 e-tron, the Mercedes EQA does feel a step behind. It is solid and gets you from A to B in relative comfort, but there are other, similarly priced models out there that do give you more of an experience when behind the wheel.

FINAL VERDICT

For a car that I’ve described as just ‘OK’, does the Mercedes EQA really deserve a price tag of more than £50,000? In my opinion, probably not, and I suspect that the badge on the front has a part to play when it comes to the price, especially when considering the Kia eNiro is just as good and is almost £20,000 cheaper.

I do like the EQA, however. Having lived with it for over six months, I have become accustomed to all its quirks, I am familiar with how it drives, and

it still caters for all of the reasons why I chose it.

The dog has plenty of space in the back, I can get lots of equipment in it, and it takes me all over the country whilst keeping me nice and comfortable. The range is OK and the performance still puts a smile on my face every now and then.

This review will be slightly harsh on this car, simply because I get to drive the latest electric cars on the market almost every week, and the EQA exists in a burgeoning electric SUV segment. With every new car, the EQA does fall further down the order when compared to these other models, with its flaws accentuated and its shortcomings highlighted. It is like noticing all the rust on your bike when the cool kid from school turns up to the playground with the shiny new one he just got for his birthday.

The Mercedes EQA is my bike, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is Ben Jackson’s brand new Apollo. On its own, the EQA is not too bad at all, but it can’t quite compete with its growing list of competition.

Introducing the electric

No, this is not a new, drastically more expensive Mach-E. This is the fully electric 1967 Ford Mustang by Charge Cars, and, yes, I’m obsessed with it.

Fastback Mustang sound? Well, that’s what the team at Charge Cars have conjured up. Only 499 of these electric pony’s will be made, and they won’t come cheap either, with each car starting from £350,000.

But this is not just a straightforward EV conversion, oh no. According to Charge’s chief creative officer

Mark Roberts, who was part of the team behind the legendary McLaren F1 roadcar, this is a fully, authentic Mustang, built from the ground up. “It’s a brand-new electric Mustang, completely redefined,” he says.

So, what does this new electric Mustang consist of, then? Let’s break it down piece by piece, shall we?

£350,000 MUSTANG

JUST LOOK AT IT

To start with, Charge Cars uses officially licensed Ford bodyshells for each project to make every single car as authentic as possible. Crafted from the first-generation of Mustang’s, the body features all the hallmarks of the iconic pony car design, with its distinctive long hood and short deck.

Whilst the design remains the same, engineers at Charge, which have come from McLaren, Jaguar Land Rover and Williams, introduce all-new, strong, lightweight composite panels, keeping the iconic structural form of the Mustang. Although the bodyshell is officially licensed from Ford and true to the original, Charge has added bespoke elements, from the LED headlights to lightweight, soft-close doors that feature electronically powered handles with near-field communication (NFC) technology.

car has the capability to be completely personalised by its customer, according to Roberts. In fact, he wants all of his clients to “personalise their cars to express their creativity and personality in the colours, materials and details.”

UNDER THE HOOD

Well, actually, that subhead should be ‘under the floor’ because each Mustang will have a floor-mounted battery pack. Charge’s composite battery tray is a structural part of the bodyshell, specifically engineered for improved weight distribution and handling.

To go even more in depth, the front sub-frame assembly houses two of the four e-motors with Charge-designed suspension, to improve ride and

handling. The rear sub-frame is where the other two motors can be found, which combine to power the four-independent-wheel drive system.

According to Charge Cars, the 63kW battery pack will give this Mustang a range of around 200 miles, whilst also reaching 0-60mph in a staggering 3.9 seconds. Add to that a top speed of 149mph, 400kW of peak power and 1520Nm torque, then this old dog will certainly be able to keep up with the new breed of electric vehicles.

With stats like those, you’ll want to put your foot down at every opportunity, but try not to worry too much about your range, as Charge has ensured 50kW DC charging to enable you to top up quickly and get back out there.

All EV hardware including drivetrain, gearbox, and inverters, are also designed and manufactured by Arrival, the manufacturer of electric vans, buses and cars. Each Arrival battery module contains 204 high nickel content NMC

21700 cylindrical cells, with a total energy of 3.7kW – cooled by Charge’s bespoke thermal management system and connected by Flex PCB technology. There are lots more modern touches all throughout this car, too. Whilst most electric classic car conversions keep a sense of rustic authenticity throughout their projects, Charge has made this Mustang fit for the modern age. As Roberts said, this is a ‘brand new Mustang’, not a conversion project.

On top of your mind-bending torque and your decent real-world range, you’ll also find a suite of driver aids, such as anti-lock braking, traction control, electronic stability control and auto vehicle hold. You’ll also have traffic sign recognition and even lane departure warnings.

When you’re not thrashing this thing around corners and whizzing down country lanes on your Sunday morning blast, you can relax and let the car do all the work for you with adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.

27 CHARGE CARS

STEP INSIDE

The dashboard of the car is dominated by two-high-definition portrait colour screens which combine to deliver a fully connected driving experience. That experience is heightened by the installation of eight flax cone speakers and a DVC subwoofer powered by a hybrid class A/B and D amplifier.

With a focus on customization and personalisation, every Charge customer can create their own, bespoke interior, where your electric seats can be trimmed in the finest materials, from Aniline leather to non-leather performance fabrics. So, what does the process of ordering and designing your Charge Car consist of? The company’s headquarters is located just five minutes away from Heathrow Airport, and each customer will be invited to its London Custom Design studio to begin the process of building their very own electric Mustang.

Here, you will choose the colour of your Mustang from seven different options: Jet Black; Arctic White Pearl; Premium Ink Blue; Premium Gold; Fire Red Metallic;

Liquid Metal; and Classic Bullitt Inspired Green Metallic. Then, you will construct your interior, from the shade of the materials to the different leathers and fabrics.

FINAL VERDICT

Although this fully electric Mustang comes with a hefty price tag of £350,000, Charge’s EV pony car has undoubtedly reached a new level of class. The range can compete with most EVs of today, the interior can be whatever you want it to be, and you won’t be able to find many cars with a better design than the ’67 Fastback.

TOP SPEED: 149mph RANGE: 200 miles 0-60MPH: 3.9 seconds

PEAK POWER: 400kW TORQUE: 1520Nm

By mixing one of the most iconic designs in automotive history with the performance, safety and comfort of the best electric cars around today, Charge’s Mustang is truly in a league of its own.

TOP TEN FAMILY FRIENDLY EVS

Whether you need miles and miles of range for big days out or lots of storage for all kinds of activities, there are a number of different electric vehicles that are perfect for families of all shapes and sizes.

Check out our list of the top ten family friendly EVs to see which one is best for your family.

BEST FOR ENTERTAINMENT

TESLA MODEL 3

Whilst it may boast a range of over 350 miles and a performance package that can see it accelerate from 0-60mph in three seconds, your kids are going to be more interested in the 15-inch infotainment screen. Here, they will be able to play videos through various streaming services such as YouTube and Netflix, as well as playing all sorts of games via the Tesla Arcade.

BEST FOR RELIABILITY

KIA eNIRO

If you’re looking for a car that is truly dependable, then it’s hard to argue with the Kia eNiro, which was found to be the most reliable EV by Which?

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The Tesla ‘Toybox’ also offers a few party pieces to entertain your kids, whether it is its light show or the boombox. For when the kids aren’t around and you want to set the mood with your significant other, you can also activate ‘Romance Mode’ which will let you cozy up to the virtual fireplace. Fun for all the family!

Not only was the Kia eNiro ranked as the most reliable electric car, but it was also found to be the most reliable small or compact SUV of any fuel type.

Just one in every 17 (6%) e-Niro owners reported any kind of fault with their car and only one in 100 (1%) said their car had failed to start or broke down. However, the unlucky few who

did have an issue faced an average of around eight and a half days off the road, showing there is still work to do on improving repair times when things do go wrong.

With the more recent Kia eNiro models, you will benefit from a range of 382 miles on the WLTP city cycle, a four-star NCAP safety score and 451 litres of storage capacity, all for the price of £33,000, which is relatively affordable in comparison to other electric SUVs.

BEST FOR SPACE

HYUNDAI IONIQ 5

For a growing family, the Hyundia Ioniq 5 offers lots of space and storage to be able to cope with kids, teenagers and adults. With plenty of legroom and headroom in the backseats, as well as plenty of storage compartments, the Ioniq 5 offers a generous blend of comfort and practicality.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 also offers a massive boot with 527L of storage, with a ‘frunk’ storage compartment, too. The rear seats can also fold down, which will increase the boot space to a massive 1,587L. If you’re looking for a premium experience as well, the ‘Ultimate’ trim offers Premium Relaxation Seats, which will allow you to recline the front seats almost completely flat. Perfect for if you want to grab a bit of shut eye whilst you’re charging or if you’re waiting to pick the kids up.

The cost of electric vehicles has always been the biggest obstacle to madd adoption. Whilst they are significantly cheaper to run, the initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle has put many people off from making the switch over.

However, with standard models starting from just £25,995, the MG4 is one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market and is competitively priced against other petrol and diesel alternatives. Even the top of the range model, the ‘Trophy Long Range’ version, will only set you back £31,495.

In comparison to the Volkswagen ID.3, often regarded as one of the best ‘affordable’ EVs, the entry level MG4 is over £3,500 cheaper than the Volkswagen alternative and offers a similar performance package.

A recent government study found that 70% of motorists felt the cost of purchase was a key barrier to owning an EV, however drivers could save as much as £80 per month by making the switch to electric, according to research from Volkswagen Financial Services UK.

If you’re looking to cut costs and switch to a truly affordable electric vehicle without compromising on quality, then perhaps it’s time to check out the MG4 EV.

BEST FOR PLAYGROUND ENVY

KIA EV6

If you want an electric vehicle that’s guaranteed to turn heads, then the Kia EV6 is right up there. Kia’s award-winning crossover offers a truly distinctive design, with an angled roof and sloping light bar at the rear setting this car apart from anything else in terms of looks.

Whilst it may be slightly longer than the Jaguar I-Pace, this Kia can still shift and it can even fly off the line faster than a Porsche Taycan, with the GT line

going from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds. With a range of 328 miles and fast charging capabilities, the Kia EV6 is understandably seen as one of the best electric vehicles around.

It also offers plenty in terms of storage, with 490L in the boot, as well as a perfect five-star NCAP rating for safety. If you want your car to be the talk of the playground, then the Kia EV 6 is the EV for you.

With an eye-catching design, decent performance package, five-star safety and suitable levels of practicality, the Cupra Born ticks all the boxes for any good family car.

It is perfect for the school run, with 385L of storage space and plenty of room in the back for the kids, as well as offering a real-world range of 270 miles, which (depending on how far away the school is) should enable you to

do a week’s worth of drops on a single charge.

It also scored a perfect five-star rating from NCAP for safety, so the Cupra Born combines practicality with reliability.

But there is also an exciting dose of Spanish flair with the Cupra Born, too. Once you have dropped the kids off, you will be able to let loose. Although it offers a relatively modest 0-60mph time of just 7.3 seconds, it feels much

quicker than that, thanks to its light steering and a suspension that copes with any type of road surface, allowing you to glide down country roads or cruise through town centres when you need to. You can throw yourself back into your seat when you’re on your own, but when you’ve got the kids in the back, you can settle down into a nice, comfortable drive. The best of both worlds.

BEST FOR SAFETY

VOLVO C40 RECHARGE

Whilst most modern cars perform well in safety tests, the Volvo C40 Recharge was one of the highest scoring electric vehicles when it came to child safety.

With a score of 89% for child occupant safety in the NCAP safety tests for 2022 vehicles, the C40 Recharge came second only to the Mercedes EQS, which scored 92%. However, as the Mercedes EQS starts from £104,750 compared to the Volvo’s £46,250, the C40 gets the nod.

During crash tests, which were based on six- and tenyear-old children, protection of all critical body areas was rated as good and the car scored maximum points. There are front airbags for passengers, and side head, chest and pelvis airbags too for maximum lateral protection.

As well as this, the C40 Recharge offers other safety features an advanced eCall system which alerts the emergency services in the event of a crash, and a system which applies the brakes after an impact, to avoid secondary collisions. Safety first.

BEST FOR DAYS OUT FORD MUSTANG MACH-E

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When it comes to range, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the best electric vehicles around, with Extended Range models offering 379 miles off a single charge.

Not only does it offer a great range, but the Mach-E also leads the way in terms of efficiency as, last year, it set a Guinness World Record for the lowest energy consumption in an electric car on a journey across Britain.

The record was awarded after independently verified data showed that the Ford Mustang Mach-E travelled over 6.5 miles per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electrical energy. With 88kWh of available battery capacity, the efficiency achieved reflects well over 500

miles of range, adding more than 120 miles to Mustang Mach-E’s official 379-mile range – and trebling the miles per kWh target set by Guinness World Records for this new electric vehicle record.

The record-breaking performance on Britain’s most lengthy journey necessitated stopping for under 45 minutes of charging. Leaving John O’Groats on full charge, the 840 miles to Land’s End required

only two main charging stops at Wigan, in North West England, and Cullompton, Devon.

If you’re planning a ‘staycation’ or a big day out with all the family, then the Ford Mustang Mach-E will ensure nowhere is out of reach.

BEST FOR RUNNING LATE FOR SCHOOL

PORSCHE TAYCAN CROSS TURISMO

Ok, so it might not be the most affordable option, starting at £84,500, but if there’s a car that’s going to help you get the kids on time if you’re running slightly late, then the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Turbo S is the best car for the job, with a 0-60mph time of 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 155mph (we shouldn’t have to say this, but please don’t speed, and please don’t hit 155mph, especially with your kids in the car).

Not only is this car super quick, but the Cross Turismo trim will also offer you that extra bit of space, both in the back and in the boot. With up to 530L of boot space depending on what spec you choose, the Taycan Cross Turismo is surprisingly practical, whilst delivering the true Porsche performance that you expect.

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, especially considering we mentioned earlier that the Mercedes EQS starts from £104,750, but if there is ever a car that could justify that sort of price tag, it would be the Mercedes EQS.

The German manufacturer’s premium electric vehicle doesn’t scrimp on any form of luxury,

whether it’s the slim, monolithic sports seats, the eight coordinated colour combinations in the interior or the multiple high-resolution screens, the inside of the EQS is closer to a fivestar hotel than it is a car.

On the subject of five-star quality, the EQS also received top marks for its safety from NCAP, and

also ranked highest for adult occupant safety and child safety. It also offers plenty of space, both in the boot and in the rear seats, as well as a competitive performance package of 0-60mph in six seconds, a top speed of 130mph and a range of 350 miles. If you’re willing to cough up over £100,000 for your family car, then the Mercedes EQS might just be the perfect option.

HOW BATTERY LIFECYCLE MANAGEMENT COULD COMBAT EV

TECHNOLOGICAL OBSOLESCENCE

There is no doubt that EV adoption is growing throughout Europe. According to the SMMT, EVs, including plug-in hybrids, now account for 33% of registrations in the UK compared to 21% in 2021. It is a fast-growing segment brought about by rising sustainability issues but, as manufacturers turn most of their attention to phasing out internal combustion engine technology, there are some interesting questions to address around battery technology, capacity and disposal.

COUNTERING OBSOLESCENCE

It is no secret that current EV technologies require multiple hardware and software updates, with some manufacturers implementing changes and updates several times a week. While technological advancements and improvements in the practical application of knowledge are fuelling rapid development, they are also accelerating the rate at which EVs can become obsolete. Taking EV batteries as an example, they may be geared up to work in harmony with current technologies now, but can the same be said in five to six years’ time when the hardware and software is even more advanced?

Right now, there may be several unknowns when it comes to the future EV landscape, but there are also emerging opportunities for the vehicle services industry. An example is the development of environmentally conscious EV battery solutions which enable fleet operators to pay closer attention to EV battery performance.

Focusing on entire battery lifecycles is central to achieving greater longevity and, more importantly, helping keep EV batteries out of oceans and

landfill sites, thereby giving them a more sustainable footprint. However, understanding battery lifespans requires more than knowing the mileage of the vehicle – there are other depreciation factors to consider.

THE 4’R’ MODEL

Understanding battery lifecycles and knowing when they require maintenance or repair to maximise efficiency is important not just for remarketing, but for keeping these vehicles in use for as long as possible. But what happens when the battery health score is 1 or below, and the battery is no longer fit for purpose?

Disposing of EV batteries – in particular lithium-ion, is a practice that requires careful consideration. These devices contain valuable metals and other materials that can be recovered, processed, and reused, but very little recycling goes on today, largely due to technical constraints, economic barriers, logistical issues, and regulatory gaps.

The alternative, however, is unthinkable. When diverted to landfill, lithium-ion batteries can leach toxic, corrosive chemicals such as mercury, cadmium, lead and nickel into the soil and water table, which endangers the environment and human health. If EV adoption makes us more sustainable, incorrect disposal negates all our efforts. The sector needs a concerted, joined-up approach to battery lifecycle management if we are to continue to encourage EV adoption throughout Europe and the rest of the world.

We believe strongly in the 4R model for electric battery servicing; repair, remanufacture, refurbish and repurpose. The ability to access batteries at end of life and remanufacture them for new applications is essential to keeping them away from landfill and protecting our natural environment.

Over the past year, we acquired Spiers New Technologies, a move which enables us to provide innovative end-to-end battery solutions to support the electrification of the transportation industry in its emissions reduction goals. We’ve done this because there is a real opportunity to build a global service network focused on management and innovation with the entire EV battery lifecycle. Establishing robust standard around EV battery health inspection and valuation, while also offering complete end-to-end battery services— from storage and logistics to remanufacturing, reuse, and pre-treatment recycling, will be key throughout this journey.

At Cox Automotive Mobility we are just getting started supporting fleets and businesses on the EV sustainability journey. The commitment of Cox Enterprises is to drive positive environmental change through our Cleantech and Cox Conserves initiatives. Our goal is to achieve carbon and water neutrality by 2034 and zero waste to landfill by 2024. As such, we believe in a closedloop ecosystem for EV batteries to help reduce their environmental impact with more sustainable end-of-life reuse and recovery treatments.

Paul Humphreys, managing director at Cox Automotive Mobility (International), explains the role effective battery lifecycle management can play in helping prevent technological obsolescence given the rapid adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs).

HOW TO CHARGE AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE MORE CHEAPLY

There has been a recent increase in the cost to charge electric cars in public rapid chargepoints, meaning it still remains cheaper to install a slow chargepoint at home, despite the rising cost of energy prices.

As of the 1st October 2022, the new cost to fully charge a 64kWh battery at home jumps up from £18.37 to £22.22, but importantly, this figure remains £11.58 cheaper than it would have been thanks to the new price cap.

Research shows that the cheapest time to charge an EV is overnight during the off-peak energy hours by using a slow chargepoint installed at home, but there are also free chargepoints at some supermarkets available for customers.

There are several tips drivers can follow to extend and optimise the battery life of electric vehicles such as driving efficiently and keeping EV’s in a garage.

Overnight charging is the cheapest time

It is much cheaper to charge EV’s overnight during off-peak hours, usually from midnight until 7am. This is because the general demand for electricity is considerably lower, although specific off-peak hours will differ between energy suppliers.

There are some EV chargers which allow drivers to schedule a charge during off-peak hours, and getting a specific EV energy tariff can also give cheaper options. Although it’s always best to check with suppliers to see the best deals available.

Install slow chargepoints at home

As well as charging up overnight, another way to reduce costs is to have a slow chargepoint installed at home. They are cheaper to use because they need to use less electricity to charge an EV - as a result it takes a few hours longer to get a full battery (around eight hours for a full charge), but this is the best cost-effective option for home charging.

Charge up as you shop

The UK’s network of public chargepoints is increasing, and lots of supermarkets across the country offer free charging facilities for their customers. It’s super easy to charge up whilst doing the week-

Make use of the garage to extend battery life

Use the garage to benefit the longevity of EV batteries - it’s really easy to prepare garages to help better the life of the battery. Having a better battery life will increase the overall charge range on electric vehicles.

Because electric vehicle batteries struggle in the changing weather and temperatures, the climate control of garages is important to help the charge range of EV’s. To do this install an insulated garage door to prevent the inside garage temperature from drastically changing and in turn, help extend the EV battery life and range.

electric vehicles. There are also benefits for businesses, local authorities and landlords.

The ‘EV Chargepoint Grant’ allows flat owners and those who live in rented accommodation to apply for funding of up to 75% towards buying and installation costs of EV chargepoints in the UK, providing up to £350 per grant. Check the latest updates to the EV Chargepoint Grant to see who qualifies.

Drive efficiently to optimise the battery range

There are several driving tips EV motorists can do to extend the battery range of electric vehicles and lessen the charging frequency.

Anticipate any hazards or junctions on the road to avoid harsh braking or unnecessary acceleration. Drivers should also be mindful of the speed as higher speeds increase the consumption of energy in electric vehicles, and also have a solid understanding of air conditioning and heating systems in an EV and only use them when necessary, as it will drain the battery.

ly shop for no extra cost. EV owners can check out online the closest complimentary supermarket chargers.

Just make sure to scan around for any restrictions in the supermarket car park, such as how long drivers can use the charging points to avoid any fines.

Take advantage of grants

The initial cost of installing an EV charger can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to take advantage of benefits that the government provides to help lower the cost of charging

EV experts at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk have named the best ways drivers can get the most out of their car batteries and charge up for cheaper.

Manage your fleet like a master

Your fleet is optimised, you’re on top of regulations, your drivers are happy. You even have enough time for your day job. This is what managing a fleet with Alphabet feels like.

Get everything you need to be at one with your fleet. Welcome to Fleet Dreams.

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