Beating the blockade with EVs and batteries – with Gautham Ram and Ruben Valiente

About this episode

The episode discusses how electric vehicles and batteries can enhance energy security amidst global supply challenges.

As global energy markets face renewed volatility – from geopolitical flashpoints to supply disruptions – a key question is back in focus: how do we deliver energy security when fossil-fuel supply is no longer guaranteed? In this episode, we explore how flexibility – powered by EVs and batteries – is emerging as a frontline solution to energy security challenges. First, Gautham Ram (TU Delft) changes the narrative on EVs as a grid liability. Instead, he outlines how millions of electric vehicles could act as a vast, distributed storage network, effectively turning transport into a strategic energy asset. From smart charging to V2G, we explore how intelligent coordination – and not just new infrastructure – can ease grid congestion, absorb renewable generation, and reduce reliance on imported fuels. We also unpack the use cases driving AC vs. DC charging, bidirectional technology, and battery lifetimes – and why scaling these solutions will depend on standards, interoperability, and consumer confidence. Then, live from the Battery & Business Development Forum 2026 in Frankfurt, Ruben Valiente of Maxxen Energy shares a ground-level view of Europe’s rapidly expanding battery storage…

People in this episode

Guests: Gautham Ram, Ruben Valiente

Topics covered

• energy security
• electric vehicles
• battery storage
• grid flexibility
• renewable energy
• supply chain

Keywords

• energy security
• electric vehicles
• batteries
• grid congestion
• renewable generation
• AC vs DC charging
• bidirectional technology
• vendor-backed financing

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TU Delft, Maxxen Energy

Places: Frankfurt

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