Everything Electric Podcast: Has London Cracked the Code on Electric Vehicles?! Episode with Michael Hurwitz | Released July 21, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the Everything Electric Podcast, host Robert Llewellyn welcomes Michael Hurwitz, a seasoned expert in the electric vehicle (EV) and sustainable transport sectors. Michael brings nearly two decades of experience, having played pivotal roles in both government initiatives and the private sector to drive the adoption of green and smart transportation solutions in the UK and particularly in London.

1. Michael Hurwitz's Background and Career

Timestamp: [00:05]

Michael Hurwitz begins by outlining his extensive career:

• Government Initiatives: Michael worked with the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (Ozev), where he was instrumental in shaping the UK's first low carbon transport strategy. He led national programs on electric vehicles, driverless cars, and biofuels, navigating challenges like the Dieselgate scandal.

  "I wrote the UK's first low carbon transport strategy and set up and led the UK's program on electric vehicles." ([04:25])

• Transport for London (TfL): Transitioning to the local level, Michael served as Innovation Director at TfL, overseeing the electrification of London's transportation fleet, including the introduction of over 2,000 electric buses and thousands of electric taxis.

  "At TfL, I led the planning of London's EV infrastructure rollout and electrified the buses." ([04:53])

• Private Sector and Consulting: After TfL, Michael ventured into the private sector, co-founding EV Challenger Arrival and later joining PA Consulting to lead their Clean and Smart Mobility division.

  "Since 2022, I've been a partner at PA Consulting, advising global investors and fleets on transitioning to clean and smart mobility." ([06:32])

2. London's Transformation to Electric Vehicles

Timestamp: [02:31] - [07:26]

Robert highlights London's remarkable turnaround in air quality, attributing significant improvements to the city's shift towards electric transportation. Michael confirms the measurable progress:

"Cumulatively, over the five-year period, NOx oxides were 24% lower and particulates were 29% lower." ([08:25])

He emphasizes that these changes have not only improved air quality but also addressed equity concerns, as marginalized communities often bear the brunt of pollution.

3. Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Its Impact

Timestamp: [07:26] - [19:24]

Introduction of ULEZ: Michael explains the implementation of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in central London, initiated in 2019 to curb vehicle emissions.

"The headline is that petrol and diesel cars from certain years onwards must comply with high emission standards to enter the zone." ([08:24])

Impact on Emissions: The ULEZ has led to a significant reduction in harmful emissions:

"NOx oxides are 24% lower, particulates 29% lower, and in some parts of London, NOx reduction is up to 39%." ([08:24])

Equity and Controversies: While ULEZ has been effective, it has also faced criticism regarding its impact on lower-income individuals who may struggle to afford newer, compliant vehicles.

"Forcing you to change a car is a big expense, especially if you're on the edge of the emission standards." ([17:42])

Future Extensions: Michael notes that while there are consultations underway regarding the future of exemptions and charges, expanding ULEZ will require careful political and social considerations.

"It's a brave decision to expand ULEZ, and there's ongoing consultation about maintaining van discounts." ([18:52])

4. EV Infrastructure Challenges in London

Timestamp: [19:24] - [28:15]

Charging Infrastructure: One of the major challenges discussed is the lack of off-street parking in London, which complicates access to EV charging for many residents.

"Approximately 70% of Londoners don't have access to off-street parking, making home charging unattainable for a large portion of the population." ([26:14])

Solutions and Innovations: Michael highlights TfL's collaboration with Fastned to develop up to 25 rapid charging hubs across the city, strategically placed where there is available land and sufficient grid power.

"Transport for London owns significant land and has partnered with Fastned to build rapid charging hubs." ([27:01])

Economic Factors: The cost structure of EV charging is another hurdle. Michael explains how VAT rates and standing charges impact the affordability and scalability of charging infrastructure.

"Domestic electricity is charged at 5% VAT, but commercial rates are at 20%, complicating the economics for charging stations." ([29:35])

5. Battery Technology and Cost Trends

Timestamp: [28:15] - [33:56]

Advancements in Battery Technology: Battery costs have plummeted by over 90%, and energy density has nearly doubled since the early days of EV development.

"Battery costs have decreased by more than 90%, and energy density has almost doubled." ([21:11])

Longevity and Reliability: Innovations are also enhancing battery life and reducing degradation, with some manufacturers like CATL developing batteries with minimal degradation over 90 years.

"There are techniques now being applied to hugely mitigate battery degradation, allowing batteries to last much longer." ([21:19])

Economic Imperatives: As battery costs decrease and operational efficiencies improve, electric vehicles become more financially attractive, even for low-mileage applications like urban delivery vans.

"Electricity is generally cheaper, so despite lower mileage in dense cities like London, the total cost of ownership often favors EVs." ([12:08])

6. Grid Capacity and Energy Storage

Timestamp: [33:56] - [47:57]

Current Grid Status: The UK's National Grid has an installed capacity of about 116 GW but typically only uses around 60 GW at peak times.

"The UK grid installed capacity is approximately 116 GW, but only about 60 GW is used at peak times." ([46:41])

Future Needs: Projections indicate that by 2050, grid capacity will need to approach 400 GW to support the electrification of transport and increased renewable energy usage.

"By 2050, the grid capacity needs to reach closer to 400 GW." ([47:14])

Energy Storage Solutions: To manage the intermittency of renewable energy sources, the UK requires around 38 GW of storage capacity, which can be achieved through hydro, large-scale batteries, and vehicle-to-grid technologies.

"The UK needs about 38 GW of storage to provide demand response and flexibility." ([47:52])

Vehicle-to-Grid Integration: Electric vehicles can play a crucial role in energy storage and grid stability. By intelligently charging and potentially discharging back to the grid, EVs can help balance supply and demand.

"A small selection of EVs, regularly plugged in at night, can contribute significantly to grid stability." ([49:11])

7. Consulting Role and Future of EV Fleets

Timestamp: [24:44] - [51:17]

Advising Stakeholders: In his role at PA Consulting, Michael advises a diverse range of clients, including global investors, fleet operators, chargepoint companies, and startups, on transitioning to clean and smart mobility.

"I work with global investors and fleets to make the shift to clean and smart mobility operationally and commercially viable." ([06:32])

Economic Case for EVs: Michael presents compelling economic arguments for businesses to adopt EVs, focusing on total cost of ownership, which often favors electric over diesel due to lower fuel and maintenance costs.

"Electricity is cheaper, and EVs have lower maintenance costs, making them a financially sound choice for businesses." ([12:08])

Scalability and Impact: Using Lloyds Banking Group as an example, Michael illustrates the massive potential impact of fleet electrification on energy consumption and the grid.

"If Lloyds Banking Group were to electrify their 1.1 million vehicles, it would consume approximately 2.4 TWh of electricity annually." ([45:58])

Future Prospects: The integration of EV fleets with grid technologies, such as smart charging and vehicle-to-grid systems, is poised to revolutionize energy management and sustainability in urban environments.

"As battery technology and grid integration advance, EVs will increasingly contribute to grid stability and energy efficiency." ([50:00])

8. Air Quality and Health Impacts

Timestamp: [38:15] - [41:08]

Health Statistics: Poor air quality remains a significant health issue in the UK, contributing to thousands of deaths annually.

"Air quality in the UK is responsible for approximately 28,000 to 36,000 deaths each year." ([39:28])

Personal Anecdotes: Robert shares a poignant story about Kissy Deborah, the first individual in the UK to have air pollution listed as a cause of death, underscoring the human cost of environmental neglect.

"Kissy Deborah was the first to have air pollution as the cause of death on her death certificate." ([40:06])

Ongoing Concerns: Despite improvements, the fight against air pollution continues, with ongoing measurements and studies highlighting the persistent risks to public health.

"Professor Chris Whitty reported significant morbidity linked to air quality, emphasizing the need for continued action." ([39:30])

9. Future Challenges and Conclusion

Timestamp: [51:17] - [55:30]

Maximizing EV Utilization: Michael emphasizes the importance of leveraging the fact that most vehicles are not in constant use to benefit the grid through smart charging and energy trading.

"Vehicles are in use only about 50-60% of the time, presenting opportunities for grid integration and energy management." ([51:37])

Policy and Economic Incentives: For sustained progress, policies must focus on reducing energy costs and incentivizing businesses to adopt EVs not just through regulations but also through economic benefits.

"Lowering energy costs is crucial to unlock the full potential of EV adoption and grid benefits." ([51:17])

Technological Integration: The future lies in sophisticated systems where EVs, especially fleets, interact seamlessly with the grid, providing both mobility and energy solutions.

"Future mobility involves vehicles that can both consume and supply energy, enhancing grid flexibility and sustainability." ([53:03])

Closing Remarks: The episode concludes with a reflection on the tremendous progress made in London's EV transformation and a hopeful outlook on overcoming the remaining challenges through innovation, policy, and collaboration.

"The transformation in London is amazing, but there are still miles to go, especially when compared to cities like Shanghai." ([38:15])

Key Takeaways

• Substantial Progress: London's shift to electric buses, taxis, and delivery vehicles has significantly improved air quality.
• Policy Impact: ULEZ has been effective in reducing emissions, though it presents equity challenges that require careful handling.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Limited off-street parking in London poses significant hurdles for widespread EV adoption.
• Technological Advancements: Continued improvements in battery technology and grid integration are essential for future scalability.
• Economic Imperatives: Lowering energy costs and demonstrating the financial benefits of EVs are crucial for broader business adoption.
• Health Benefits: Reducing air pollution through electrification has profound positive impacts on public health.

Notable Quotes

• Michael Hurwitz on ULEZ Impact:

  "Cumulatively, over that five-year period, NOx oxides were 24% lower particulates, I think 29% lower." ([08:25])

• On Battery Advancements:

  "Battery costs have decreased by more than 90%, and energy density has almost doubled." ([21:11])

• On Air Quality and Health:

  "Air quality in the UK is responsible for approximately 28,000 to 36,000 deaths each year." ([39:28])

• On EVs as a Solution:

  "Vehicles are in use only about 50-60% of the time, presenting opportunities for grid integration and energy management." ([51:37])

Conclusion

This episode provides a comprehensive look into London's ambitious journey towards becoming an electric vehicle hub. Michael Hurwitz's insights illuminate the successes achieved, the challenges that remain, and the technological and policy-driven paths forward. For anyone interested in sustainable transportation and the intricate dance between urban planning, technology, and environmental stewardship, this dialogue offers valuable perspectives and food for thought.