Charged for change: Auto Futurecast episode explores the hidden value of EV battery data

Auto Futurecast, a podcast by Tomorrow’s Journey in association with Asset Finance Connect and sponsored by Solifi, has released its third episode featuring Oliver Phillpott, Co-Founder and CEO of Generational. This insightful episode dives into the critical role of EV battery diagnostics in the evolving electric vehicle landscape, offering a fresh perspective on building trust, reducing risk, and shaping a sustainable future for EV ownership.

Hosted by Chris Kirby, CEO of Tomorrow’s Journey, the episode, titled Charged for Change: The Hidden Value of EV Battery Data, tackles the growing need for transparency, education, and innovation in assessing battery health, particularly in vehicle financing, leasing, and the used car market.

Key highlights from the episode:

The challenge with traditional valuation models – Oliver emphasises the fundamental misalignment between legacy vehicle valuation methods, which centre on age and mileage, and the reality of electric vehicles. For EVs, battery degradation is far more reliant on behaviours such as rapid charging and deep discharging. This discrepancy has made standardised EV battery diagnostics not just beneficial but essential.

The risks for finance companies – The episode underscores the significant risks banks and finance companies face from a lack of battery quality data, with some lenders refusing to finance specific EV models due to uncertainty. Oliver explains how accurate battery diagnostics can protect these companies while building confidence in their EV portfolios.

Empowering dealers and consumers – Dealers are finding measurable benefits from Generational’s battery health certification technology. Battery certificates improve customer trust and even triple advertisement views for used EVs. For consumers, this transparency offers a buying experience comparable to the trust provided by MOT certificates or energy efficiency ratings for homes.

Shifting to usage-based pricing models – A fascinating discussion explores the future of leasing, where usage-based pricing models could reward drivers for battery-friendly habits like slower charging or avoiding over-discharging. By leveraging connected car data, these adjustments could lower lease costs for conscientious drivers, creating a new standard for EV stewardship.

A secondary EV reconditioning market – The episode introduces the exciting potential for a secondary EV reconditioning market. Oliver predicts a future where used EVs with healthy batteries could be refurbished with updated software or parts, extending their lifespan and maximising their resale value. This innovation could be key in fostering a sustainable and profitable used EV ecosystem.

Education and transparency as the path forward – Overall, Oliver stresses the importance of education and industry-wide standardisation in building trust across EV stakeholders, from consumers to finance companies. By improving access to battery data, the industry can reduce risk while supporting the broader adoption of electric vehicles.

This latest episode from Auto Futurecast provides valuable insights for fleet managers, automotive financiers, and professionals navigating the rapidly changing EV market.

About Auto Futurecast
Auto Futurecast examines the technologies and trends transforming the automotive industry. In association with Asset Finance Connect, Tomorrow’s Journey, and sponsored by Solifi, the podcast features top industry leaders addressing key challenges in mobility.

Discover how innovators are driving change in the automotive world.

Listen to the episode now at https://assetfinanceconnect.com/auto-futurecast-podcast/. Also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music.