Episode 116: Liz Allan, James Dewhurst and Richard Parker - Enhancing Driver Safety and Operational Efficiency

Episode 116: Liz Allan, James Dewhurst and Richard Parker - Enhancing Driver Safety and Operational Efficiency

Liz Allan speaks to James Dewhurst, the Sales Director at Webfleet and Richard Parker, EV Consultant (UK) at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions. They discussed the crucial need for supporting remote workers in sales and driving roles, emphasising safety and health. They shared insights from the Greenfleet EV Rally, highlighting data-driven driving efficiency and safety improvements. They also explored innovative fleet management strategies, breaking down barriers to decarbonisation. They also touched on the ever-important topic of reducing road fatalities and misinformation.

James Dewhurst Bio:
James Dewhurst is the Sales Director for Webfleet, a Bridgestone Mobility Solutions brand, with over 15 years of telematics experience. Based in Scotland, James focuses on advancing fleet decarbonisation and safety goals, using connected vehicle technology and partnerships to help businesses achieve sustainable and efficient operations.

James Dewhurst Links:
Website: https://www.webfleet.com/en_gb/webfleet
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-dewhurst/

Richard Parker Bio:
Richard Parker is an EV Consultant at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, specialising in guiding fleets toward zero-emission vehicles through education and tailored solutions. With nearly five years at Webfleet and a history of leading impactful EV transitions, such as converting 48 vehicles at Portsmouth Naval Base in 2017, Richard uses real-world data and expertise to help businesses improve efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. 

Richard Parker Links:
Website: https://www.bebridgestone.com/our-businesses/bridgestone-mobility-solutions
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjparker1

Episode Keywords:
Remote workers, driver safety, driver concentrat

Transcript

Liz Allan [00:00:01]:
Okay, so on today's episode, I have James Dewhurst and Richard Parker with me. James is the Sales Director of Webfleet, and Richard is an EV Consultant for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, of which Webfleet is part. We'll explain that as we go through, or rather, you will explain that, won’t you? But listen, both of you, thank you very much for joining me.

Richard Parker [00:00:26]:
No, thanks for inviting us.

James Dewhurst [00:00:28]:
Yeah, it’s great to be here.

Liz Allan [00:00:30]:
We met at the GreenFleet EV Rally, and you were involved in that a lot. I kept spotting you! On the last day, I was part of the Women Drive Electric team, and we won an award, so I got to meet you properly then.

Richard Parker [00:00:53]:
That’s because you behaved yourself and drove well all week.

Liz Allan [00:00:57]:
I wouldn’t say everyone behaved, but some of us did—at least we tried to. Thank you both for joining me. I always ask about your background and what brought you to where you are now. Richard, I’ll start with you. You’ve worked for Webfleet for a long time but have now moved into the Bridgestone side. Can you explain that and give us some background? What brought you here?

Richard Parker [00:01:35]:
So, my background isn’t telematics. I’ve been with Webfleet for nearly five years, so I suppose it’s becoming my background. Before that, I worked with a large company for several years in the leasing sector. During that time, I became interested in sustainability and the transition in transport. I worked with Chris Chandler from Lex Autolease on what was, at the time, the biggest single EV deal in the UK. We transitioned 48 vehicles at Portsmouth Naval Base, converting half of their fleet to zero emissions back in 2017. It was a challenge for commercial vehicles— only one electric van was available at the time!

After a few years, I joined Webfleet at the start of 2019, just before COVID. I’d been with the business for eight weeks when lockdown began, and I didn’t know much about telematics then. However, the time allowed me to focus on my development, and during COVID, I got embedded in transitioning fleets to zero emissions. I spent time with groups like the EV Café and others in the sustainability space, which shaped the work I’m doing now.

Bridgestone created my current role to help our customers and our people gain the knowledge to support the transition to zero emissions. A lot of my work involves education and helping people navigate this new language of sustainability. I love the role.

Liz Allan [00:03:45]:
It’s fantastic, and you’re right—it is a new language that people are just starting to grasp. Thank you, Richard. James, could you share your journey with us?

James Dewhurst [00:03:55]:
Of course. I’ve been in telematics for nearly 15 years, and I’m coming up to my eighth year with Webfleet, previously TomTom Telematics. I started in sales, working with smaller local fleets near where I live in the Highlands of Scotland, one of the UK’s most remote regions. Over time, I progressed to working with corporate fleets across the UK. In July 2022, I became the UK and Ireland Sales Director.

My passions lie in decarbonisation and safety. The UK has dual net zero targets—reducing carbon emissions and achieving zero road deaths by 2050. I’m particularly focused on how our technology can help fleets achieve these goals. Through connected vehicle technology, we can improve both safety and efficiency for our customers.

When Bridgestone acquired TomTom Telematics in 2019, it marked a significant shift. Bridgestone is transitioning from being the world’s largest tyre manufacturer to becoming a leader in digital mobility solutions. This involves supporting sustainable fleets and helping businesses digitise their operations.

Bridgestone introduced the "E8" commitments as part of this transformation—eight focus areas: energy, ecology, efficiency, and emotion. Everything we do is now aligned with these commitments, and Webfleet plays a key role as the telematics brand within Bridgestone Mobility Solutions.

Liz Allan [00:04:47]:
That’s an exciting focus—balancing decarbonisation with safety. Can you elaborate on what that looks like in practice?

James Dewhurst [00:05:00]:
Decarbonisation, of course, refers to reducing carbon emissions in fleets, primarily by transitioning to electric vehicles and optimising operations to be more efficient. Safety, on the other hand, is about reducing risks for drivers and other road users. For example, we have technology like AI cameras that detect things such as tailgating or distracted driving.

From a wider perspective, the UK has a target for zero road deaths on strategic roads by 2050. That aligns with what we’re doing—helping fleets operate safely while transitioning to sustainable practices. It’s about using technology to drive positive change in multiple areas.

Liz Allan [00:06:05]:
That’s fascinating. I imagine Bridgestone's transition from a tyre manufacturer to a digital solutions company has been a huge shift.

James Dewhurst [00:06:15]:
It has. When Bridgestone acquired TomTom Telematics in 2019, it was part of their strategy to become more than just a tyre manufacturer. They’re now positioning themselves as a leading mobility solutions provider, focusing on sustainable and connected fleets.

They’ve introduced the "E8" commitments, which are eight pillars: energy, ecology, and efficiency. These guide everything we do as a company. Bridgestone believes that if you create solutions that benefit society, you’ll naturally build a successful business. Webfleet is key in delivering on these commitments by helping fleets become greener and more efficient.

Liz Allan [00:07:15]:
I love the concept of the "E8" commitments. They are not just about sustainability but also about people and their energy, which must be very rewarding.

James Dewhurst [00:07:30]:
It is. Bridgestone has a broad perspective on energy, seeing it not only as renewable energy but also as people's energy and passion. As Richard mentioned earlier, we’re family men, which drives our motivation. We want to leave a better world for our kids. It’s great to be in a role where you can align your values with your work.

Liz Allan [00:08:00]:
That’s brilliant. Thank you both. Now, Webfleet’s work spans several areas, but what would you say is your primary focus right now?

Liz Allan [00:08:00]:
I love the focus on energy and the energy of people. That really resonates with me because people are the heart of any business.

James Dewhurst [00:08:19]:
Absolutely. Richard and I are both family men with young kids, and we see our work as an opportunity to create a better future for them. It’s incredibly rewarding to be in a role where you can make a positive impact.

Liz Allan [00:08:40]:
It’s brilliant, giving back while building for future generations. Now, Webfleet’s work spans several areas. What would you say is your main focus right now?

James Dewhurst [00:09:11]:
Our primary focus is connected vehicles—integrating technology into vehicles to collect and provide actionable data. For example, during events like the EV Rally, we connect vehicles to capture data that helps participants understand what they’re achieving. It’s about showing the real impact of what they’re doing.

We focus on delivering this data to the right people—whether it’s drivers, fleet managers, or company boards—so they can make informed decisions. A major challenge is supporting fleets in their transition to electric vehicles without compromising efficiency or profitability.

Liz Allan [00:09:11]:
So, James, if we look at the kind of dashboard that a fleet manager or a stakeholder would see, what does that look like? What kind of information are they getting?

James Dewhurst [00:09:20]:
Great question. So, what we provide is a comprehensive software platform that offers real-time insights into fleet performance. Many people think telematics is just about tracking a vehicle on a map, but it’s so much more. The dashboard is highly customisable, so fleet managers can tailor it to show exactly what they need—whether that’s vehicle locations, driver behaviour, fuel efficiency, or maintenance alerts.

For example, a fleet manager might group vehicles by location or type and analyse data on emissions, mileage, or safety scores. We also have robust reporting features that allow managers to drill down into specific metrics or trends. It’s about giving them the tools to make data-driven decisions that enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Liz Allan [00:10:12]:
That sounds incredibly detailed. Can fleet managers run these reports daily to track efficiency or specific KPIs?

James Dewhurst [00:10:20]:
Absolutely. Reports can be automated to provide daily, weekly, or monthly insights. You can also customise them to include additional metrics or highlight key data points. It’s like Excel but built into the system—conditional formatting, filters, everything.

Beyond the platform, we provide a partnership approach. We work closely with customers, whether they have five vehicles or 5,000, to ensure they get the most out of the data. Richard’s role is crucial here—helping fleets interpret the data and use it in practical ways.

Liz Allan [00:11:00]:
That’s brilliant. Richard, from your perspective, what’s the most valuable part of the data for fleets transitioning to EVs?

Richard Parker [00:11:10]:
The data itself is valuable, but it’s what you do with it that really matters. For example, during the EV Rally, we collected data to demonstrate how driving style affects efficiency. One key insight was how regenerative braking and acceleration impact range. We ran controlled tests to see how smooth driving compared to harsh acceleration, and the results were striking—up to 30% more range with smoother driving.

For fleets, this means driver coaching can have a big impact. If we can give managers real-time insights and practical advice, they can improve productivity and reduce costs. It’s all about translating data into actionable solutions.

Liz Allan [00:12:10]:
That’s fascinating. And I imagine these insights also help with planning EV infrastructure, like charging.

Richard Parker [00:12:20]:
Exactly. For example, we analyse charging behaviours to optimise dwell times and routes. During the rally, we tested the theory of keeping charge levels between 20-80% for efficiency. Surprisingly, we found that charging below 10% was actually faster for one van. This kind of real-world testing allows us to refine advice for fleets, helping them operate more effectively.

Liz Allan [00:13:10]:
That’s such a practical approach. How do you ensure this information reaches everyone, from drivers to depot managers?

Richard Parker [00:13:20]:
It’s about tailoring the information for each stakeholder. Drivers need actionable tips for improving efficiency, while depot managers need quick summaries to spot and address issues. For example, we can send automated notifications if a vehicle’s performance drops or if charging times are longer than expected. It’s about making the data accessible and useful for everyone in the business.

Liz Allan [00:14:00]:
It’s great that you’re considering all levels of the organisation. Have you seen a shift in how businesses approach these changes?

Richard Parker [00:14:10]:
Definitely. There’s much more awareness now, especially with sustainability being a factor in tender processes. Companies want to show they’re reducing emissions, not just for the environment but to remain competitive. Even small steps, like improving fuel efficiency or optimising routes, can make a difference.

Liz Allan [00:14:50]:
And it’s not just about cost savings—it’s also about building trust with customers and partners, isn’t it?

Richard Parker [00:15:02]:
Absolutely. When businesses demonstrate they’re taking sustainability seriously, it builds credibility and trust. It’s a win-win—better efficiency, lower emissions, and stronger relationships with stakeholders.

Liz Allan [00:15:47]:
Richard, do you consider yourself a data geek now?

Richard Parker [00:15:50]:
I didn’t used to be, but working in EVs has made me more data-focused. The EV Rally is a good example. We ran experiments, such as loading a van with 200kg and testing how charging curves change at different states of charge. We discovered that charging below 10% was faster than between 20-80%, which defied expectations.

Data isn’t just about numbers—it’s about turning insights into solutions for customers. For example, analysing how driver behaviour, like acceleration or regenerative braking, affects vehicle range. If we can help fleets improve efficiency by 10-20%, it has a huge impact on productivity and reliability.

Liz Allan [00:17:00]:
It’s fascinating how much difference driving style can make. Do you think enough drivers understand this when they switch to EVs?

Richard Parker [00:17:10]:
Not always. Many drivers aren’t trained when they’re handed an EV, so they apply the same driving habits they’d use with traditional vehicles. But EVs require subtle adjustments—using regenerative braking, smoother acceleration, and understanding charging curves.

That’s why we focus on educating both drivers and managers. It’s not just about putting someone in an EV; it’s about giving them the confidence and tools to get the best out of it. This benefits the business as well, with fewer range issues and lower running costs.

Liz Allan [00:18:10]:
That makes a lot of sense. James, from your perspective, how do businesses react to this kind of advice?

James Dewhurst [00:18:20]:
It’s a mixed bag. Larger organisations often have sustainability targets and the resources to act quickly, but smaller businesses face more challenges. They might be unsure how to make the transition or concerned about upfront costs. That’s where we come in—to help them start small and make meaningful changes.

Even simple steps like improving fuel efficiency in their current vehicles can reduce emissions and operating costs. It’s about meeting businesses where they are and guiding them through the process.

Liz Allan [00:19:10]:
Do you find businesses are becoming more open to these changes?

James Dewhurst [00:19:15]:
Yes, especially as sustainability becomes a competitive advantage. We’ve seen tenders shift from asking for vague sustainability goals to requiring specific plans and measurable outcomes. Companies want to show they’re taking action, and the data we provide helps them do that.

It’s also about framing decarbonisation as an opportunity, not just an obligation. By reducing emissions, businesses can save money, win more contracts, and build stronger relationships with their customers.

Liz Allan [00:19:50]:
That’s such a positive way to look at it. It’s about taking those small steps and building momentum.

Richard Parker [00:20:00]:
Exactly. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Decarbonisation isn’t just about switching to EVs—it’s about improving efficiency across the board. Every little change adds up.

Liz Allan [00:23:23]:
That’s great, and I love that fleets can see their carbon footprint. It’s a win-win—they save money and reduce emissions. And by doing this, you’re building trust with your customers.

Richard Parker [00:23:55]:
Absolutely. A lot of businesses are now including sustainability in their tender requirements, moving from asking, “What are your goals?” to, “What are you delivering?” If companies can show tangible progress, like reducing their carbon footprint, it can help them win more business.

Liz Allan [00:24:51]:
James, let’s talk about the dashboards for fleet managers and stakeholders. What do they look like, and what kind of reports can they run?

James Dewhurst [00:25:12]:
Our solution isn’t just about devices in vehicles; it’s about a comprehensive software platform that visualises data. Our dashboards are fully customisable. For example, you can group vehicles by type, location, or driver profile and generate meaningful insights. Reports are also highly customisable—you can add columns, use conditional formatting, and tailor them to your needs.

What sets us apart is the partnership we offer. We work closely with customers, whether they have five vehicles or 50,000, to help them interpret the data and turn it into actionable insights. Richard’s role as an EV Consultant is crucial for helping fleets understand what the data means in the real world.

Liz Allan [00:25:47]:
So, James, when it comes to fleet dashboards and reports, how customisable are they? Can businesses really tailor them to their unique needs?

James Dewhurst [00:26:00]:
Absolutely. Our dashboards are highly customisable, which is one of the key differentiators of Webfleet. Fleet managers can set up dashboards to show exactly what they need, whether that’s emissions, mileage, fuel consumption, or safety scores. You can even group vehicles in different ways—by type, location, or driver.

For example, if a business has a mix of vans and cars spread across the UK, they can create groups to track specific data for each vehicle type or region. This flexibility allows them to see the bigger picture or drill down into details. It’s about providing the right data to the right people, whether it’s the fleet manager, sustainability officer, or drivers themselves.

Liz Allan [00:27:00]:
And can they run reports to monitor trends over time?

James Dewhurst [00:27:05]:
Yes, and the reports are just as customisable as the dashboards. Fleet managers can generate daily, weekly, or monthly reports and adjust them to focus on specific metrics. For example, they can track fuel consumption trends, identify areas where drivers can improve, or monitor the carbon footprint of their fleet over time.

One of the key features is the ability to add conditional formatting—just like you would in Excel—so important data points stand out. It’s about making the data actionable and meaningful, not just a collection of numbers.

Liz Allan [00:28:00]:
That’s brilliant. Richard, how do you see businesses using this data when transitioning to EVs?

Richard Parker [00:28:10]:
It’s invaluable. The data helps businesses understand their current operations and identify opportunities for improvement. For example, they can use telematics to determine which vehicles are suitable for electrification based on mileage patterns or charging infrastructure availability.

We also help businesses optimise their existing fleets while they transition. For example, by improving driver behaviour or reducing payload, they can immediately lower emissions and operating costs. It’s about showing them the small changes they can make today while preparing for bigger steps tomorrow.

Liz Allan [00:28:55]:
It’s great that you’re helping businesses make that journey without feeling overwhelmed. Decarbonisation can feel like a huge task, but breaking it down makes it achievable.

Richard Parker [00:29:00]:
Exactly. It’s about making the transition manageable. Start with what you can control today and build from there. Every step forward makes a difference

Richard Parker [00:29:30]:
And that partnership is about taking small steps. As Lorna McAteer says, “Do something tomorrow that you didn’t do today to make a difference.” Even small changes, like improving MPG or removing excess mileage, can have a positive impact.

Liz Allan [00:30:53]:
How do you feel people currently view decarbonisation? Do organisations see it as a good thing?

Richard Parker [00:31:14]:
Most people acknowledge that it’s necessary, but for many, the upfront cost is a barrier. Large corporates can afford to make bold decisions, but smaller businesses are often just trying to stay afloat. That’s why we emphasise small, achievable steps—like improving driver behaviour or reducing weight—to start making progress.

Also, tenders are increasingly asking companies to demonstrate their sustainability efforts, which creates an opportunity for businesses to take action and stand out.

Liz Allan [00:31:14]:
So how do people currently feel about decarbonisation? Do organisations generally see it as something positive, or are there challenges?

Richard Parker [00:31:20]:
Most people recognise the need for decarbonisation and see it as important. I’ve never had anyone outright dismiss it as unnecessary. The bigger issue for many, especially smaller organisations, is the cost and complexity. Larger corporates can invest upfront and make big changes, but smaller businesses are often focused on staying afloat, and the transition can seem overwhelming.

What we’ve found effective is starting small. For example, improving driver behaviour, removing unnecessary payload, or simply maintaining tyres at the correct pressure can make a noticeable difference in fuel efficiency and emissions. It’s about meeting businesses where they are and helping them take the next step.

Liz Allan [00:32:22]:
It’s a really practical approach, isn’t it? You’re helping businesses improve what they’re already doing while preparing for the future.

Richard Parker [00:32:36]:
Exactly. We also help them understand the business benefits of sustainability. For example, tenders are now asking companies to demonstrate their sustainability practices, not just talk about goals. If businesses can show measurable progress, like reducing their carbon footprint, it can actually help them win new contracts.

So, it’s not just about doing the right thing environmentally—it’s also about staying competitive and seizing new opportunities.

Liz Allan [00:33:20]:
That’s a great point. James, have you seen a shift in how businesses approach decarbonisation?

James Dewhurst [00:33:30]:
Yes, definitely. It used to be that tenders would just ask for a statement about sustainability. Now, they’re asking for specific plans and results—essentially saying, “Show us what you’re doing.” That shift is pushing businesses to act, and we’re here to support them.

What’s also interesting is that safety and decarbonisation often go hand in hand. For example, improving driving behaviour not only reduces emissions but also reduces accidents and wear and tear. It’s all connected, and businesses are starting to see the value in that.

Liz Allan [00:35:17]:
That’s so important, especially when combating misinformation. You’re providing credible data and information to people who might otherwise be sceptical.

Richard Parker [00:36:10]:
Exactly. At events like GreenFleet in Scotland, even sceptics showed up. The fact that they’re curious enough to attend is a start. The challenge is reaching new audiences beyond the usual faces we see at these events.

James Dewhurst [00:36:52]:
It’s also about addressing misconceptions. For instance, there’s still cynicism about EV capabilities. Events like the Guinness World Record we achieved show that these vehicles are not only viable but capable of exceeding expectations.

Liz Allan [00:39:05]:
Let’s talk about that Guinness World Record. What was your involvement, and what did it entail?

Richard Parker [00:39:32]:
It started two and a half years ago when Sam Clarke approached us about setting a Guinness World Record with an electric van. After that success, we began planning for a record attempt with a car. It took months of research, route planning, and data preparation.

The challenge was to drive 569 miles on a single charge without retracing our route. We needed precise navigation and constant focus to maintain efficiency, which meant keeping momentum and driving at an average of 30mph. It was 24 hours of intense concentration for both drivers and navigators.

Liz Allan [00:43:00]:
And the car you used was a Ford Mustang Mach-E, right? Its WLTP range is 372 miles. How far did you manage?

Richard Parker [00:43:10]:
Yes, the WLTP range is 372 miles, but this was hypermiling—driving to maximise efficiency. We achieved 569 miles. It wasn’t real-world driving; it was a controlled experiment. But it shows the potential of the vehicle.

James Dewhurst [00:44:19]:
This record highlights that EVs are capable. While this wasn’t real-world driving, it proves that even under normal conditions, EVs can meet most people’s needs. The infrastructure is there too—many places now have charging stations where you can top up during a coffee break.

Liz Allan [00:45:54]:
Exactly. And for safety reasons, you should be stopping every couple of hours anyway. What time did you start and finish the drive?

Richard Parker [00:45:59]:
We started at 2:13am and finished at 2:08am the following day. It was precise and intense. We even hit 0% charge with 20 miles left to go, but we made it thanks to careful planning.

Liz Allan [00:46:20]:
That’s cutting it very close! What was going through your minds when you hit 0% charge with 20 miles still to go?

Richard Parker [00:46:27]:
Honestly, it was nerve-wracking. We’d prepared for every eventuality, but seeing that 0% on the dashboard added a whole new level of tension. The AA was following us just in case, but it still felt like we were operating on a knife edge. At that point, we were relying on the car’s built-in buffer, which we knew existed but didn’t know exactly how much was left.

We adjusted the route slightly to avoid busy roads and conserve as much energy as possible. It was about using every ounce of efficiency—minimising stops, coasting where we could, and managing speed carefully.

Liz Allan [00:47:10]:
That’s incredible. It really shows how much planning and precision goes into these record attempts.

Richard Parker [00:47:20]:
Absolutely. Every detail matters. From the initial route planning to how the drivers handled the vehicle, it all had to be spot-on. And the teamwork was phenomenal—each navigator had to be 100% focused on ensuring we stayed on track and avoided unnecessary detours or delays.

It’s a testament to what EVs are capable of when they’re driven efficiently, but it’s also a great example of how critical planning and collaboration are in making these kinds of projects a success.

Liz Allan [00:47:55]:
It’s such an inspiring story and a fantastic showcase for what EVs can achieve.

Liz Allan [00:48:15]:
Now, going back to the GreenFleet EV Rally—how many vehicles did you manage during the event?

Richard Parker [00:48:20]:
We monitored about 20 vehicles. Most used a plug-and-play device for tracking, but for older models like an eight-year-old Tesla, we installed hardwired systems to capture detailed data. That Tesla, by the way, achieved 3.8 miles per kilowatt-hour after 250,000 miles on its original battery and motors.

Liz Allan [00:48:50]:
That’s amazing—250,000 miles on the original battery and motors! It’s proof of how durable and reliable EVs can be, isn’t it?

Richard Parker [00:48:57]:
Exactly. It really dispels the myth that EV batteries don’t last. That Tesla is still performing well after all those miles, and the efficiency it achieved during the rally was remarkable. It’s a great example of how an EV can remain a viable, cost-effective option for businesses, even after years of service.

Liz Allan [00:49:20]:
And what about the newer vehicles in the rally? Were there any standout performances?

Richard Parker [00:49:25]:
Absolutely. There were some fantastic performances from newer EVs, especially in terms of range and efficiency. The BEON van was a highlight, showcasing how commercial EVs are evolving. Although it had some challenges charging on certain networks, it demonstrated how far the technology has come.

The rally wasn’t just about testing cars, though. We had everything from large trucks to smaller, more niche vehicles, like the Spartan driven by Lorna McAteer. That vehicle, with its off-road tyres, handled the 1,400-mile route like a champ, proving that EVs are versatile and adaptable to different conditions.

Liz Allan [00:49:58]:
That’s so impressive. And the rally really highlighted the range of vehicles available, didn’t it?

Richard Parker [00:50:03]:
It did. The diversity of vehicles on display showed that there’s an EV solution for almost every use case. From the older Tesla to the cutting-edge commercial vans and even electric motorbikes, the rally demonstrated that EVs are here to stay and ready to meet the demands of businesses and individuals alike.

Liz Allan [00:50:23]:
That’s incredible. The variety of vehicles at the rally was impressive. From small vans to large trucks, it really showcased the capability of EVs.

Richard Parker [00:51:00]:
Exactly. This year, the focus was on safe and sustainable driving. Everyone drove responsibly, and the driver behaviour scores were outstanding. The top three teams were separated by just 0.02 points.

James Dewhurst [00:53:09]:
It’s a testament to how far EVs have come. The rally has evolved, and participants now understand the importance of driving sustainably. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about doing so efficiently and responsibly.

Liz Allan [00:53:28]:
That’s such a good point. It’s not just about showcasing what EVs can do; it’s about driving them responsibly and proving that they work in real-world conditions.

Richard Parker [00:53:35]:
Exactly. And what’s great about the rally is how it’s evolving. It’s no longer just about seeing if the vehicles can make it from A to B—it’s about pushing the boundaries. People are using the rally to test different scenarios, like driving with payloads or using older EV models, and showing that these vehicles are more than capable.

Liz Allan [00:53:57]:
Yes, and I think that’s so valuable, especially for people who are sceptical about EVs. The variety of vehicles at the rally—vans, older cars, large lorries—proves that there’s something for everyone.

Richard Parker [00:54:10]:
It really does. Take Lorna McAteer, for example, driving the Spartan with off-road tyres for over 1,400 miles. That’s not a setup you’d expect to see in an EV rally, but it worked. And then you had the National Grid team showcasing their operations in a van with left-hand drive—it was fascinating to see how adaptable these vehicles are.

Liz Allan [00:54:39]:
And let’s not forget Sam on his motorbike! Watching him in the rain during some parts of the rally was quite something.

Richard Parker [00:54:47]:
Yes, Sam Clarke on his electric motorbike was such a trooper. We had him tracked the whole time, which gave us peace of mind when Sarah got worried about his safety. It’s a great example of how tracking technology can ensure the safety of lone workers, whether it’s for a rally or in a business setting.

Liz Allan [00:55:10]:
That’s such an important point. Safety and visibility are so vital, especially when people are working alone.

James Dewhurst [00:55:20]:
Absolutely. The technology isn’t just about data—it’s about looking after people. With tracking and real-time insights, you can provide support when it’s needed most. That applies in the rally and in day-to-day fleet operations.

Liz Allan [00:55:42]:
So, what’s next for the EV rally? Are there plans to evolve it further next year?

Richard Parker [00:55:50]:
Yes, definitely. Each year, the rally grows in scope and ambition. Next year, we’re hoping to see even more diverse vehicles and participants pushing the limits of what’s possible. It’s a fantastic platform to show what EVs can do and to challenge misconceptions.

James Dewhurst [00:56:15]:
We’re also seeing more companies joining the rally with new teams, which is exciting. It’s not just about the usual faces anymore—it’s about getting more people involved and spreading awareness about EV capabilities.

Liz Allan [00:56:39]:
That’s brilliant. I can’t wait to see how it develops. And it’s so inspiring to hear about the collaboration and innovation that goes into it.

Richard Parker [00:56:50]:
It really is. Everyone involved, from organisers to participants, is working towards the same goal—showing that EVs are a viable and sustainable option. It’s a privilege to be part of something that’s making a real difference.

Liz Allan [00:57:10]:
Thank you both for sharing all of this. Before we wrap up, I want to ask each of you one last question. Can you share a moment when you realised the importance of the work you’re doing?

James Dewhurst [00:57:25]:
For me, it was at a partner conference a couple of years ago. One of our partners, who was initially sceptical about decarbonisation, came up to me afterwards and said, “I thought this was all a load of nonsense, but now I see how important it is.” That’s when I knew we were making a difference—when we started changing minds and showing people what’s possible.

Richard Parker [00:57:55]:
For me, it was back in 2017 when we worked on transitioning 48 vehicles at Portsmouth Naval Base. It was my first real exposure to EVs and decarbonisation, and seeing the impact of that project was eye-opening. That’s when I realised this isn’t just a job—it’s about creating a better future.

Liz Allan [00:58:30]:
Those are both amazing moments. It’s clear how much passion you both bring to this work.

Richard Parker [00:58:40]:
Thank you. It’s easy to be passionate when you know you’re making a difference.

James Dewhurst [00:58:45]:
Absolutely. It’s a privilege to be part of this journey.

Liz Allan [01:00:02]:
Thank you both for an insightful conversation. This has been fascinating, and I’m sure our listeners have gained a lot from it. If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please like, share, and subscribe to help spread the word. Thanks again, James and Richard, and thank you to everyone for listening and watching. See you next time. Bye-bye!

Richard Parker [01:00:58]:
Bye. Thanks, Liz.