This special episode of the Auto Futurecast podcast, hosted by Chris Kirby, brought together some of the brightest minds in the asset finance and automotive industries during the Asset Finance Connect Summer Conference.
Covering themes from electric vehicle (EV) adoption to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in asset finance, the conversation was insightful, forward-thinking, and packed with valuable takeaways. Here’s a recap of the episode highlights and key discussions.
Karima Haji from Scania Financial Services outlined how the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) EV market lags behind its car counterparts due to a lack of government support and infrastructure in the UK. While European countries like Denmark and Norway have advanced through subsidies, UK operators struggle with high upfront costs and insufficient charging infrastructure.
Karima also warned of the critical need for better grid infrastructure to ensure smooth large-scale deployment of megawatt chargers.
Richard Huston highlighted how AI, particularly through their product Lucero, is being used to handle high volumes of operational tasks like customer emails and contract management.
However, he emphasised augmentation over automation, arguing that AI should support human expertise rather than replace it. He noted that businesses adopting AI prematurely often risk creating inefficiencies if foundational processes aren’t optimised.
AI’s biggest benefits are best realised when integrated carefully into workflows, offering enhanced support for decision-making while maintaining the human touch.
Tony Lynch introduced the concept of "synthetic salespeople" through CarPass.ai technology, which uses AI to create dynamic, conversational experiences for car buyers. This innovation aims to eliminate the limited functionality often seen in traditional chatbots, replacing them with engaging and context-aware tools that simulate human-like conversations.
Tony predicted a major transformation in online interactions, declaring that “websites as we know them will become relics.” He believes AI-first interfaces will soon dominate, particularly in sales journeys that require flexibility and interaction.
His approach highlights a key transition for businesses needing to adapt now or be left behind.
Dom shared insights into the evolving automotive policy landscape. While plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) gain popularity due to incentives, upcoming policy changes could affect their viability.
The resulting uncertainty could bring volatility to both fleet and retail markets.
Dom urged the government to introduce more predictable and balanced policy updates to support sustained market growth while minimising disruption from rapid adjustment periods.
Tom McLennan from BVRLA introduced their “Bon Voyage Charge” campaign, encouraging better charging facilities at key destinations like airports. Rental markets, he argued, face distinctive challenges, including turnover logistics for EV fleets.
His emphasis on infrastructure improvements is key to making EV rental seamless and accessible globally.
Significant challenges remain around educating first-time EV renters to build trust and eliminate "range anxiety" or misunderstandings about charging logistics in unfamiliar territories.
The special Auto Futurecast episode recorded at the Asset Finance Connect Summer Conference revealed industry-wide consensus on two driving forces that will shape the future of asset finance:
For listeners seeking the edge in a rapidly-evolving market, this episode served as a compelling call to action.
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CASE STUDIES
A fully automated and completely digital test drive experience for Hyundai UK's EV fleet.
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In early 2021 we built bp, an electric vehicle subscription service including charging designed for professional ride-hail drivers.