In the latest episode of the Auto Futurecast podcast, host Chris Kirby speaks to Oliver Phillpott, Co-Founder or Generational, a startup focused on EV battery diagnostics. The insightful conversation delves into the growing importance of battery health in the electric vehicle ecosystem, particularly in the context of vehicle financing, leasing, residual values, and the used car market.

A key discussion point is the misalignment of traditional vehicle valuation methods—which rely heavily on age and mileage—with the reality of EVs, where battery degradation depends largely on usage behaviour such as rapid charging, deep discharging, and storage practices. Oliver notes that age and mileage are poor predictors of battery health, making standardised diagnostics vital.

This episode also explores the implications of battery health for finance companies, many of which are now carrying large numbers of EVs without insight into battery quality. This lack of data creates significant risk. Some lenders are already refusing to finance certain EV models due to battery concerns, underlining the need for standardised diagnostics in financing decisions.

Generational’s technology is increasingly being used by dealers, who find that providing battery certificates boosts customer trust and even triples ad views for used EV listings. For consumers, this adds a layer of transparency comparable to MOT certificates or energy efficiency ratings in homes, helping normalize battery data in the used vehicle buying process.

On the residual value front, Oliver and Chris discuss the likely shift toward usage-based pricing models, where lease terms could incorporate factors like charging behaviour or battery-friendly driving styles—enabled by connected vehicle data. This could mean lower lease costs for drivers who treat their batteries well, creating incentives for better EV stewardship.

The pair also touch on the potential for a secondary EV reconditioning market, where used EVs with strong batteries might be refurbished with updated software or parts, extending their lifespan and resale value. Oliver predicts that this kind of innovation will become central to building a sustainable and profitable used EV market.

Finally, Oliver emphasises that transparency and education will be key to aligning the interests of drivers, dealers, and finance providers. With growing industry awareness and improved access to battery data, stakeholders can reduce risk and improve the long-term viability of EV adoption.

This latest episode from Auto Futurecast, sponsored by Solifi and in partnership with Tomorrow’s Journey and Asset Finance Connect, offers valuable insights for anyone involved in automotive finance, fleet management, or the evolving EV market.