Vehicles running on clean electricity for miles. It seemed like something out of a movie – until it wasn’t.​

The modern car invented by Karl Benz and produced for the masses by Henry Ford has changed the world. Mobility. Convenience. Status. Freedom. And lots of emotion. Everyone has a story about their first car or that epic road trip down the coast.​

But there’s a new player on the market. It drastically cuts emissions, fuel costs and maintenance. It’s hailed by many as a key step in our journey to net zero. Initially, electric cars were reserved for the happy few who could afford the hefty price tag. And there was the charging anxiety to deal with too – what if the battery runs out mid route?​

The number of electric cars remains small versus the fossil-fuelled alternatives, but things are changing. The pandemic disrupted the traditional car markets and some are saying we’ve reached peak petrol. In fact, 1 in 2 people are already considering an electric vehicle. And the UK government has confirmed a ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030. ​

So what’s it going to take for all of us to switch to electric? Charging infrastructure continues to be top of mind for eco-warriors. And when is the right time to make the switch? Can we actually afford it? Does it suit our lifestyle?​

What about cuts to subsidies – how will they affect sales? How can businesses best embrace the financial and environmental benefits – think deliveries and company cars? What can we learn from other countries? And what does an all electric world look like?​

Tune in to find out:

• Who used to drive around in a yellow Datsun Cherry
• George’s special formula for a great family car
• Why Jamie thinks more and more people are keen
• Who helped Daksh choose his next car

Enjoyed the episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: Deloitte.co.uk/GreenRoomPodcasts

Guests: Daksh Gupta, Group Executive Officer of Marshall Motor Group and Jamie Hamilton, head of electric vehicles at Deloitte Hosts: George Parrett and Lizzie Elston Technical support: Deloitte’s Creative Studio Original music: Ali Barrett