Everything Electric Podcast Godfather of EVs Turns New Leaf With 'Brill' British Batteries Move & Urges UK EV Industry to Unite.
Oct 6, 2025
Dr. Andy Palmer, a seasoned automotive executive known for his pivotal role in developing the Nissan Leaf, joins Robert Llewellyn to discuss his latest venture with Brill Energy. They delve into the urgent need for the UK EV industry to unite amid rising competition from China. Palmer also explores the challenges of EV adoption, including perceptions, public charging, and the impact of battery technology on costs. His insights on synthetic versus biofuels and the potential of sodium-ion batteries add a fascinating layer to the future of electrification.
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First Home Vehicle-to-Home System
- Andy Palmer installed the world's first home vehicle-to-home system in 2012 after the tsunami showed grid vulnerability.
- He used that early experiment to learn how cars can provide emergency and economic resilience.
Choose Collaboration Over Tariffs
- Use collaboration, not blunt tariffs, to get technology and jobs to flow both ways.
- Offer market access only in return for real collaboration and local investment rather than simple taxes.
Batteries Can Be Engineered To Be Safe
- Battery engineering can prevent thermal runaway and make EVs safer than petrol cars.
- China enforces legislation aiming for zero thermal incidents, raising overall safety standards.