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EV Café Takeaway

EV Café Takeaway

Written by: EV Café Takeaway
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About this listen

Guests from across the EV industry will join the crew for The EV Café Takeaway, having candid conversations to highlight the work of the Electric Vehicle and Sustainability industry, to uncover stories that we all need to learn from and importantly, to understand something of the people behind the work.

The EV Café crew, have the wonderful privilege of talking to some amazing pioneers, innovators, and collaborators in our industry. The generosity, openness, honesty, and insight from our guests has been truly humbling and inspirational. We want as many people as possible, to be challenged and inspired by these podcasts.
Politics & Government Science
Episodes
  • 150: Matt Cleevely | Cleevely Electric Vehicles
    Jan 21 2026

    Matt Cleevely, the driving force behind Cleevely Motors and Cleevely Electric Vehicles—and an industry personality—joins JC & Paul this week.

    Matt shares how a family business founded in 1962 has transformed into a hub for EV repair, sales, and advocacy, all while staying rooted in the values passed down from his grandfather. He talks openly about:

    • Building a multi-generational, family-led business in the age of electrification
    • Overcoming industry resistance and championing EV adoption
    • The challenges and rewards of running three intertwined businesses
    • His personal journey with mental health, and how hobbies like golf and strong family support helped him overcome depression
    • Why kindness, honesty, and community are at the heart of everything he does
    Matt Cleevely (LinkedIn)
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cleevely-aae-mimi-2792b367/

    Cleevely Electric Vehicles
    https://www.cleevelyev.co.uk

    HEVRA (Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Alliance)
    https://hevra.org.uk

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 149: Caroline Watson | C40 Cities
    Jan 14 2026

    Paul and JC sit down with Caroline Watson, Director of Transport at C40 Cities—a global network of mayors leading the charge toward a zero-emission future.

    Caroline shares her incredible journey in the world of transport decarbonisation, from her early days at the Energy Saving Trust to spearheading international initiatives that are transforming city mobility. She reveals how C40 supports nearly 100 cities worldwide in tackling climate change, rolling out zero-emission buses and freight corridors, and creating healthier, more liveable urban spaces.

    Highlights include:

    • The story behind C40 Cities and its evolution from London’s climate initiative to a global force.
    • How cities like Shenzhen, Oslo, and Amsterdam are setting the standard for electrification and clean transport.
    • Groundbreaking projects like the ZEBRA initiative in Latin America and electric freight corridors in India.
    • The power of city policies, heat-mapping for EV infrastructure, and the vital role of public transport in reducing congestion and emissions.
    • Caroline’s personal passion for climate action, her vision for reaching the 1.5°C target, and why tangible solutions like electric vehicles keep her motivated.

    Caroline Watson (LinkedIn)
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-watson-53609125

    C40 Cities
    https://www.c40.org

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    44 mins
  • 148: Tim Bailey | Northgate
    Jan 7 2026
    Kicking off 2026, Paul and John are joined by one of the true legends of the UK fleet and rental industry – Tim Bailey. Fresh into retirement after a 37-year career spanning Alamo, National Car & Rental, Europcar, Redde, and Northgate. Tim shares his fascinating journey from petrol pump attendant in Dublin to leading fleets, shaping policy, and guiding the UK’s transition to electric vehicles—particularly vans.

    We cover:
    • Falling into fleet: how Tim accidentally discovered his lifelong career.
    • The EV van challenge: why decarbonising the commercial vehicle sector is so critical, and what must change.
    • Hall of Fame moments: how it felt to be recognised by Fleet News and the BVRLA for outstanding contribution.
    • Leadership lessons & life perspective: from navigating 9/11 and business administration in Europe to balancing family and career.
    • A wish for the industry: Tim’s EV Café Magic Wand moment for the future of zero-emission transport.

    Tim Bailey (LinkedIn)
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-bailey-9454502/
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    59 mins
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