This edition features The Creators and Innovators Redefining the EV Landscape that are at the forefront of leading us into a better future Read More: https://ciolook.com/10-creators-and-innovators-redefining-the-ev-landscape-2023-september2023/

1. VOL 09I ISSUE 07 I 2023
On the Road
Exploring the Possibili es
to Enhance Drive Quality
of Electric Vehicles
John Incorvaia
Market Segment Leader
GPRS
10
Creators and
Innovators
Redening
the
Landscape
2023
Incorvaia
Navigating Uncharted
Terrain with Concrete
Results
John
On a Quest
Lithium or Fossil Fuels?
What Difference Are We Making?

2. When the
Vision
is Clear,
the Results
Will Appear
Vision
is Clear,
Results
Appear
When the

4. Editor’s
Note
FramingFuture
Sustainable

5. Hire
character.
Trainskill.
AbhishekJoshi
I
n a world that's rapidly shifting towards
sustainability and environmental consciousness, the
electric vehicle industry stands at the forefront of
technological innovation and ecological responsibility.
As we venture into this exciting journey of discovery,
CIOLook is thrilled to introduce you to "10 Creators
and Innovators Redefining the EV Landscape in 2023.”
The transformative power of electric mobility extends
far beyond mere transportation. It signifies a
monumental shift in how we perceive and interact with
our environment, promising cleaner air, reduced
greenhouse gas emissions, and a more sustainable
future. The individuals and companies featured in this
issue have taken up the mantle of this green revolution,
pushing the boundaries of innovation and engineering
excellence. They are the pioneers who are not just
shaping the EV industry but also the broader clean
energy ecosystem.
As you turn the pages of this issue, you'll meet
visionaries who have redefined the concept of electric
vehicles, making them more efficient, accessible, and
integrated into our daily lives. From cutting-edge
battery technologies that promise longer ranges and
faster charging times to groundbreaking designs that
merge aesthetics with
eco-friendliness, these creators are turning the EV
landscape into a canvas of possibilities.
Our editorial team embarked on an exhaustive journey
of research and interviews to curate this list of
extraordinary individuals and organizations. We've
delved into their stories, their inspirations, and the
challenges they've overcome. What emerges is a
tapestry of dedication, resilience, and the unwavering
belief that a sustainable future is not just a dream but
an attainable reality.
Each profile offers a glimpse into the passion and
ingenuity that drive these innovators to redefine the
boundaries of what's possible in the EV industry.
Moreover, we delve into the trends and advancements
that are reshaping the EV landscape as a whole. From
the growing integration of AI and machine learning in
EV development to the expanding range of options in
the market, this issue offers a comprehensive snapshot
of the current state of electric vehicles.
As we celebrate these 10 Creators and Innovators
Redefining the EV Landscape in 2023, we invite you to
join us in recognizing their outstanding contributions.
Their work inspires not just the EV industry but also
underscores the importance of sustainable practices in
our ever-changing world. Together, we look forward to
a future where electric vehicles drive us toward a
cleaner, greener and sustainable tomorrow.

6. On the Road
Exploring the Possibili es to Enhance
Drive Quality of Electric Vehicles
On a Quest
Lithium or Fossil Fuels?
What Difference Are We Making?
C O N T E N T S
Don Gurrie
A Spark of Brilliance Igeni ng Change
in the Energy Industry
20
16
24

7. 08
Incorvaia
Navigating Uncharted
Terrain with Concrete
Results
John

8. CONTENT
Senior Editor Alan Swann
Executive Editors AbhishekJoshi
Alex Spellman
DESIGN
Visualizer Dave Bates
Art & Design Director Revati Badkas
Associate Designer Ankita Pandharpure
SALES
Senior Sales Manager Sihanee M., Rouniyar A.
Customer Success Manager Linde. M, Ankush
Sales Executives Alan, Tom
TECHNICAL
Technical Head Prachi Mokashi
Technical Consultant Victor Collins
September, 2023
Copyright © 2023 CIOLOOK, All
rights reserved. The content
and images used in this
magazine should not be
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photocopying, recording or
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with CIOLOOK.
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Research Analyst Eric Smith
SEO Executive Ravindra Kadam

9. Brief
Company Name
Sahan Abeln
Head of EV
Solutions
Sanna Chinenyanga
Associate Solicitor
Amy Dobrikova
VP, Fleet Solutions
Don Currie
CEO
Amy is a passionate and energetic sales and marketing
executive. Fleet sales specialist with technical aptitude and
multiple product experience.
Sahan is a strategic thinker who sees opportunities and displays
a strong enquiring leadership style while maintaining the
team’s focus on objectives.
Sanna specialises in transactions within the utilities sector
providing strategic advice and legal solutions to UK's leading
network providers.
With over 35 years of experience as a corporate executive,
entrepreneur and strategic advisor, Don infuses energy and
momentum in teams, empowering them to identify, assess and
acquire optimal business outcomes.
Amy Blair
Leading Global
Partnerships
and Electrification
Amy's mission is simplifying electric mobility and creating a
sustainable future for all.
Enel X Way
enel.com
Blink Charging Co.
blinkcharging.com
Hillcrest Energy Technologies
hillcrestenergy.tech
Alex Rae
Director & General
Manager
Alex serves as a prominent personality having a decade long
experience in the EV industry.
Vital EV
vital-ev.co.uk
GPRS
gprsinc.com
John is a self-motivated professional with a long-standing
record of initiative and determination.
Birketts LLP
birketts.co.uk
Cara Clairman
President and CEO
Christian is a product Line Leader of CLEAN Technology
Transformation for the Commercial Vehicle industry in North
America.
Plug'n Drive
plugndrive.ca
JLL
JLL.com
ZF Group
zf.com
James shares a dream that nuclear energy is the only way for
global civilization to move forward.
Christian Feldhaus
Head of Product Line
Driveline Systems ZF North
America - ZF Commercial
Vehicle Solutions
Mackenzie Eldridge
V2X Enthusiast and
eMobility
Solution Engineering
Manager
Mackenzie is an ambitious professional with a passion for
enabling advancements in the EV industry.
Featured Person
John Incorvaia
Market Segment
Leader
Schneider Electric
se.com

10. Navigating Uncharted Terrain with Concrete Results
John
Incorvaia

11. C
O
V
E
R
S
T
O
R
Y
John Incorvaia
Market Segment Leader
GPRS

12. T
he dynamic and ever-evolving world of
construction and infrastructure development
requires that the prevention of subsurface
damage is of paramount importance. Subsurface
infrastructure, such as water mains, gas lines and
electrical cables, is essential for the functioning of
modern cities.
However, this infrastructure is often hidden
underground, making it difficult to locate and protect
during construction. Damage to subsurface
infrastructure can have serious consequences as well,
including disruption of services, environmental
pollution and even loss of life.
Leading the charge in this critical domain is John
Incorvaia, the Market Segment Leader for Renewables
at Ground Penetrating Radar Systems, Inc. (GPRS).
GPRS is a trailblazing construction visualization and
safety company that specializes in Utility Locating,
CCTV Video Pipe Inspection, Leak Detection, Concrete
Imaging, 3D Laser Scanning, and Mapping & Modeling
services. Established as a pioneer in the industry, GPRS
has carved a niche for itself by prioritizing safety,
precision and innovation in every project it undertakes.
With an unwavering commitment to subsurface
damage prevention, GPRS is setting new standards and
driving change across the construction landscape.
Through his visionary leadership and innovative
solutions, John is revolutionizing the way construction
projects are approached and executed, with a keen
focus on subsurface safety and damage prevention.
John is a testament to company's commitment to
achieving 100% subsurface damage prevention with a
profound and unwavering focus on innovation, safety
and collaboration. Groundbreaking solutions like
SiteMap® highlight his visionary leadership in the
construction industry.
Let's delve into the remarkable journey of John and the
work of GPRS in the realm of subsurface exploration and
protection. We will explore his journey, the groundbreaking
work of GPRS and the remarkable strides made by this
forward-thinking company in achieving 100% subsurface
damage prevention.
Visualizing the Built World™
GPRS is the nation's largest company specializing in
Visualizing the Built World™ by offering a range of
services that provide accurate as built data for
customers across the nation. Founded in 2001, GPRS
has been relentlessly committed to keeping projects on
time, reducing safety risks and putting client
relationships before profit.
The company is driven by the vision of 100%
subsurface damage prevention, a goal that permeates
every aspect of its operations, including implimenting
the Subsurface Investigation Methodology
specification, or SIM.
SIM can be described as the methodology that allows
GPRS Project Managers to maintain 99.8% accuracy
rate on utility locating and concrete scanning on over
350,000 jobs. John says, “Even with that industry-leading
statistic, we are not satisfied. That’s why GPRS pursues
every avenue of technology, training and methodology to
deliver on our safety goals for our clients.”
Journey towards 100% Subsurface Damage
Prevention
John’s career with GPRS began in 2020, and in just two
years, he rose to become the Market Segment Leader
for Renewables. John's role revolves around driving
strategies and vision within the Renewable Energy and
EV sectors to ensure proactive subsurface damage
prevention efforts.
Taking a consultative approach with clients, he strives
to help them Intelligently Visualize the Built World™
above and below ground, optimizing design and
construction processes while staying abreast of market
trends and driving industry growth. He shares, “To do all
of it, it’s important to stay current with market trends while
understanding the key initiatives that are driving market
growth.”
Innovating Towards Safer Solutions
John mentions, “You could say innovation is at the heart of
GPRS. Our people are always innovating.”
GPRS places innovation at the core of its operations
and its people are dedicated to constantly finding
simpler, safer and more efficient ways to solve
problems for their clients. From 3D printing solutions
to creating cutting-edge field tools, GPRS has
demonstrated an unmatched commitment to pushing
boundaries.

13. Whether it's creating 3D printing solutions extend the
battery life of GPRS’s technologies to make them easier
to use, like Edward Wiltsie did last year, or creating
brand new field tools like the GeNiuSS IQ Rover, an
amazing little tool that reduces satellite bounce to
correct location data, which is the brainchild of three
GPRS employees and their friend, developed during the
Covid lockdown. John says, “Innovation comes from our
Project Coordinators to our C-suite and everywhere in
between.”
The latest innovation in this legacy of progress which
John reveals with utmost excitement, is one of the most
innovative in 22 years, SiteMap®, powered by GPRS.
SiteMap® (patent pending) is a simple solution to a
wide swath of problems our customers experience
every day.
It is designed to eliminate reworks, change orders, cost
overruns, downtime, and even injuries to streamline
communications by eliminating out-of-date information
and inaccurate as-builts and allowing GPRS customers
to visualize their entire site or subsurface
between facility infrastructure in one geolocated,
layered, secure and shareable platform.
SiteMap® is Collarboration Redefined and every
existing and new GPRS customers receives a Personal
SiteMap® subscription when doing a utility locate, and
the before Mapping & Modeling Team provides
exceptional data from free PDF and .KMZ files for
every outdoor utility locate to customized walk-
through integrated BIM models that can map
everything from the subsurface to the roof.
John exclaims, “Whatever you need to get the job done
right.”
Navigating Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
Despite GPRS's unwavering commitment to subsurface
damage prevention, the construction industry still faces
challenges. When one digests utility damage statistics
like those in the CGA DIRT Report, one begins to
realize that the construction industry has a long way to
go in damage prevention.
The lack of proper ground disturbance policies and dig
permits remains a root cause of most line strikes. Based
on two independent studies, there is only a 35%
adoption rate in the industry regarding third-party
locating services. This is a problem when one considers
the fact that there is a utility strike every 62 seconds.
GPRS has strategically built a sales team to address this
issue, educating the industry about the importance of
utility locating and offering best practices to mitigate
risks and line strikes. Their efforts align with their
ultimate goal of achieving 100% subsurface damage
prevention.
Effective Communication and Team Alignment
Communication is vital to driving strategy and
implementing projects effectively. As a Market
Segment Leader, John ensures team alignment through
regular meetings to review tasks, initiatives and
opportunities, casting a clear vision to achieve their
goals.
He says, “To ensure our team is aligned, I host regular
meetings to review tasks, upcoming
initiatives/opportunities and continually cast a vision as to
how we set to accomplish our goals.” He also adds,
To do all of it, it’s
important to stay
current with
market trends
while
understanding the
key initiatives that
are driving market
growth.

14. “I believe that alignment is the glue that holds together a
strong and healthy team.”
Pursuing a Master's in Organizational Leadership (from
SEU) further bolsters his understanding of the
importance of alignment in maintaining a strong and
healthy team. He shares, “I learned from Kent Ingle, the
President of the University, that Organizational alignment
requires skillful communication, great clarity throughout
the team and purposeful, careful deployment of people,
processes and resources.”
Prioritizing Tasks and Meeting Deadlines
John's role as a salesperson is to not get caught up in
the craziness of operations, requiring him to navigate
tight timelines while maintaining alignment between
the sales and operations teams.
There are often situations where key customers or a
targeted prospect reaches out with a batch of projects
with a tight turnaround, so the sales team and
operations have to be aligned. John shares a recent
incident mentioning, “Recently, we were tasked to
complete twenty (20) solar projects within a week’s time.
That is a tall order when each site requires multiple days on-
site and is spread throughout an entire state.”
With support staff strategically placed across the
country, GPRS efficiently handles large-scale projects,
ensuring prompt completion and impeccable service.
Thankfully, GPRS has built a nationwide network of
elite Project Managers with support staff strategically
placed in every major metropolitan area in the United
States.
Identifying and Mitigating Risks
To ensure the most accurate results when performing
non-destructive subsurface testing, all GPRS Project
Managers are certified in Subsurface Investigation
Methodology (SIM). It is aimed at achieving the most
accurate results when performing non-destructive
subsurface testing.
Current recommendations by the American Society of
Nondestructive Testing advise 8 hours of classroom
time and 60 hours of field practice in order to achieve a
Level 1 certification.
By contrast, SIM requires 80 hours of classroom
training and 320 hours of mentored field training.
SIM combines proper training in subsurface
investigation techniques and methods with advanced
equipment knowledge to create a regulated system for
collecting data. This specialized training, combined with
advanced equipment knowledge, has led to an industry-
leading 99.8% accuracy rate in utility locating and
concrete scanning. It allows GPRS to take a
consultative approach with its clients, offering tailored
solutions to meet their specific needs.
John states, “It allows us to provide a consultative
approach to our projects, particularly in the Renewables
and EV sectors, by helping customers understand what they
actually need and providing locates, scans, maps and
solutions to meet those needs.”
Measuring Success and Driving Authentic
Relationships
For John, success is measured by the relational
development and growth of his target customers. He
says, “The goal for any salesperson is to become a trusted
advisor to those who rely on your expertise within the
industry. So, it is important that you regularly build those
relationships through face-to-face engagements, business
reviews, consultations, etc.”
John provides insights and solutions from a place of
authenticity. The cornerstones of his success lie in his
strong work ethic and servanthood, values instilled in
him by his Italian family.
Continuous Learning and Innovation
John stays updated with industry trends and best
practices through networking on LinkedIn, attending
tradeshows and engaging in virtual events majorly in
the EV space. Key account management and
subscriptions to organizations like EVadoption further
augment his understanding of the EV space.
He shares, “We work with a vast network of OEMs,
engineers and surveyors in the EV space; moreover,
conversing about what they’re seeing in the space and how
it affects their operations is crucial in understanding their
needs.”
Subscribing to EVadoption which is an organization
that focuses on using analysis and a behavioral

15. Organizational
alignment
requires skillful
communication,
great clarity
throughout the
team and
purposeful,
careful
deployment of
people,
processes and
resources.

16. economics approach to understand hurdles and
enablers of the adoption of electric vehicles, primarily
in the US. This is a wonderful resource for NEVI plan
implantation across all 50 states.
As part of GPRS's Leadership Development Program,
he hones the key elements of personal development
necessary for effective leadership.
Bequeathing Words
Embodying Success through Intangibles
For John, success in sales is not solely dependent on
tangible achievements but rather on the intangibles
that shape his character and approach to work.
Drawing inspiration from his Italian heritage, John's
upbringing in a blue-collar, hardworking family instilled
values that are foundational to his success. Hard work,
a strong sense of family, servanthood and nurturing
relationships are all held to the highest standard in his
life.
The Power of Work Ethics and Servanthood
John firmly believes that a strong work ethic is the
bedrock of a successful salesperson. Diligently serving
clients' needs, going the extra mile and delivering on
promises are key aspects that define his approach. In a
highly competitive industry, John's unwavering
commitment to hard work sets him apart, allowing him
to forge lasting relationships with clients and earn their
trust.
Family and Servant Leadership
As a leader, John embraces the concept of servant
leadership, putting the needs of his team and clients
before his own. Rooted in the family-oriented values of
his upbringing, John believes that success is not merely
about personal gain, but also about fostering a
collaborative and supportive environment for his
colleagues and clients alike. His dedication to servant
leadership cultivates a culture of empathy, cooperation
and mutual respect within his team.
The Value of Authentic Relationships
For John, the heart of sales lies in building authentic
relationships with clients. He understands that genuine
connections, built on trust and mutual respect, are the
building blocks of long-term partnerships. Embodying
the spirit of servanthood, John focuses on
understanding clients' unique needs, providing
personalized solutions and delivering value-driven
results. His commitment to nurturing these authentic
relationships goes beyond transactions, fostering
loyalty and repeat business.
The goal for
any
salesperson
is to become
a trusted
advisor to
those who
rely on your
expertise
within the
industry.

18. On the Road
ExploringthePossibilities to
Enhance Drive Quality of
ElectricVehicles
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
16

19. lectric vehicles (EVs) have garnered significant
Eattention in recent years as the automotive
industry accelerates its transition toward more
sustainable transportation options. With the growing
demand for EVs, manufacturers are not only focusing
on extending range and improving battery technology
but also on enhancing the overall driving experience.
One crucial aspect of this experience is drive quality,
which encompasses factors such as ride comfort,
handling, and overall performance. In this article, we
will delve into the possibilities for enhancing the drive
quality of electric vehicles.
Battery Technology Advancements
The heart of any electric vehicle is its battery system.
Advances in battery technology have a direct impact on
the drive quality of EVs. Lithium-ion batteries have
been the go-to choose for EVs, but researchers are
working on various improvements. Solid-state
batteries, for instance, promise higher energy density,
faster charging times, and increased longevity. These
innovations can lead to better power delivery and,
ultimately, a smoother driving experience.
Regenerative Braking Systems
One unique feature of electric vehicles is regenerative
braking. This technology captures and stores kinetic
energy during braking, converting it back into electrical
energy to recharge the battery. Enhanced regenerative
braking systems can not only increase efficiency but
also improve drive quality by offering smoother and
more consistent deceleration. This helps in reducing
the wear and tear on traditional friction brakes,
contributing to a quieter and more comfortable ride.
Adaptive Suspension Systems
Adaptive suspension systems have become increasingly
popular in EVs. These systems continuously adjust
damping rates and ride height based on road conditions
and driving modes. They provide a smoother ride by
minimizing vibrations and road imperfections, thus
enhancing drive quality. Additionally, adaptive
suspensions can improve handling and stability, making
EVs more enjoyable to drive.
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
17

20. Torque Vectoring
Torque vectoring technology enables precise control of
power distribution to each wheel, optimizing traction
and handling. In electric vehicles, this can be especially
beneficial due to the instant torque delivery of electric
motors. Torque vectoring enhances stability and
cornering abilities, resulting in a more engaging and
confidence-inspiring driving experience.
Noise Reduction and Cabin Comfort
One notable advantage of electric vehicles is their quiet
operation. However, to further enhance drive quality,
manufacturers are investing in advanced noise
reduction techniques. Improved sound insulation and
active noise cancellation systems are being employed
to reduce unwanted road and wind noise. Additionally,
cabin comfort features like heated seats, advanced
climate control, and high-quality materials can make
the interior of an EV a more pleasant place to be.
Software and AI Integration
The advent of electric vehicles also brings with it the
integration of advanced software and Artificial
Intelligence (AI). AI-driven systems can optimize power
delivery, predict driver behaviour, and adjust various
vehicle parameters in real time for a more personalized
and comfortable driving experience. This includes
adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and
advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that not
only enhance safety but also contribute to drive quality.
Continuous Over-the-Air Updates
Electric vehicle manufacturers are increasingly offering
over-the-air (OTA) software updates, allowing vehicles
to receive improvements and optimizations remotely.
These updates can address performance issues, fine-
tune driving characteristics, and introduce new
features, all of which contribute to enhancing the drive
quality of EVs over time.
Enhancing the Core Elements
Weight Distribution Optimization:
Careful distribution of the vehicle's weight, often
achieved by placing the heavy battery pack at a low
center of gravity, can improve stability and handling,
leading to a more enjoyable driving experience.
Aerodynamic Design:
Streamlined and aerodynamic vehicle designs reduce
air resistance, which not only enhances energy
efficiency but also contributes to reduced wind noise,
making the ride quieter and more comfortable.
Range Anxiety Mitigation:
Enhancing drive quality also involves addressing range
anxiety concerns. Advanced navigation systems and
apps that suggest optimal routes considering charging
infrastructure availability can reduce driver stress and
make long trips more convenient.
High-Performance EV Variants:
Manufacturers are introducing high-performance
electric variants, such as electric sports cars and
performance-oriented SUVs. These models offer
exhilarating acceleration and handling, catering to
drivers seeking a sportier driving experience.
Dynamic Driving Modes:
Many EVs now feature multiple driving modes, allowing
drivers to customize their experience. Sport modes can
offer more aggressive acceleration and steering
responses, while eco modes optimize efficiency for
daily commutes.
The Roadmap Ahead
The future of electric vehicles is bright, with continuous
advancements aimed at improving drive quality and
overall customer satisfaction. From battery technology
innovations to adaptive suspension systems, torque
vectoring, noise reduction, and AI integration, the
possibilities to enhance the driving experience of
electric vehicles are limitless. As the EV market
continues to evolve, consumers can look forward to an
even more comfortable, enjoyable, and sustainable
mode of transportation.
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
18

22. he world is racing towards sustainability and a
Tgreener future, and the energy industry is at the
forefront of this revolution. Leaders in the
energy industry are working to develop new
technologies that will help to reduce our reliance on
fossil fuels and transition to a clean energy future. In
addition to developing new technologies, energy
leaders are also working to change the way we think
about energy. They are advocating for policies that will
support the transition to a clean energy future and they
are working to educate the public about the benefits of
renewable energy.
Don Currie is leading this charge as one of the leaders,
the CEO of Hillcrest Energy Technologies, a company
investing in cutting-edge energy solutions that power a
more sustainable and electrified tomorrow. At Hillcrest,
the vision is clear-to lead the charge in cleantech
innovation and drive the development of highly
innovative power conversion technologies and control
system solutions. With a firm belief in the potential of
their proprietary technology, Don Currie and his team
are committed to crafting next-generation powertrains
and grid-connected power systems that will shape the
future.
Hillcrest's dedication to sustainability and
electrification serves as a guiding light in the energy
industry, aiming to create a cleaner, more efficient
world for generations to come. With a focus on clean
tech, they are poised to revolutionize the way we
harness and utilize energy, setting a new standard for
power solutions.
As the CEO, Don Currie's visionary leadership drives
Hillcrest Energy Technologies to new heights,
consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation and
staying ahead of the curve. His strategic foresight
propel the company's mission to redefine the landscape
of energy solutions.
With Don Currie at the helm, Hillcrest Energy
Technologies is paving the way towards a future
powered by clean energy, where electrification meets
innovation and where sustainability and progress go
hand in hand. Through his unwavering dedication and
passion for driving positive change, Don Currie is
leaving an indelible mark on the energy industry, one
innovation at a time.
Let's Explore the cutting-edge energy solutions used by Don
and be a part of the clean tech revolution today. Together,
let's power a brighter tomorrow!"
Brief our audience about your journey as a dynamic
leader until your current position at your company.
What challenges have you had to overcome to reach
where you are today?
After nearly 20 years of raising money for public and
private companies, I wanted to build and run my own
company. After nearly a decade of operating
Hillcrest as a traditional energy company, we hadn’t
reached the level of success or value I’d hoped, so I
made the bold decision to transition the company into
the clean energy technology sector and made it happen
in 2021.
Competent management teams are essential in every
business and we’ve assembled the right people with the
experience and ambition to pull off something
completely new. I’m very proud of the team we’ve built
and the recognized company we have transitioned to in
such a short time.
In less than 2 years, we’ve accelerated quickly from an
idea to product prototypes and co-development
engagements with global leaders in the Zero Emission
Vehicle (ZEV) space and we are on schedule to secure
commercial agreements this year.
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
20

23. While it’s not always easy, surrounding myself with the
right people and encouraging advice and guidance from
those that have been in my shoes before, has made this
journey a fun adventure. It doesn’t get easier as we
move forward, but the team and I are confident we will
be successful in delivering our technology to the
market very soon.
Enlighten us on how you have been impacting the
dynamic industry through your expertise in the
market.
A year ago, it was challenging to get potential
customers to listen. They couldn’t believe our company
had discovered a way to apply a concept that had been
around for nearly 30 years and not successfully
deployed by much larger companies. Some thought it
was impossible! Now, we have more of these
companies interested in working with us than we have
the capacity to handle.
It took a year of delivering market-leading results and
persistently engaging our networks to change the
industry’s perception. But I think our technology is
having an impact on the market and gaining traction.
Our technical team has performed above expectations
which have had a sizeable impact on marketing and
commercialization discussions.
Tell us a bit about Hillcrest and its initiatives to
redefine the industry.
Hillcrest is an innovative clean technology company,
redefining power conversion technologies and
advanced control system solutions.
Don Currie
CEO
Hillcrest Energy
Technologies
Spend the time
needed to build
and empower the
right team and
trust them to fill
those gaps in your
own expertise.
““
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
21

24. Hillcrest is the first to market with a revolutionary Zero
Voltage Switching (ZVS) technology platform. This
highly differentiated combination of proprietary
hardware and control firmware offers next-generation
power inverter capabilities across large and diverse
market segments, such as e-mobility and grid-
connected power generation and storage.
The combined benefits of the ZVS technology offer a
cost-effective approach to achieving greater efficiency,
performance and reliability than power conversion
devices currently on the market.
Describe in detail the values and culture that drives
your organization.
We’ve worked hard to build and maintain a culture of
innovation, integrity and inclusivity. We encourage
curiosity and diverse perspectives and strongly avoid
doing something just because that’s the way others
have done it before.
Being creative and thinking outside the box may mean
mistakes are made, but in the end, creativity and
accountability allow the company to move very quickly
as we create the optimal path forward.
Undeniably, technology is playing a significant role in
almost every sector. How are you advancing towards
technological innovations to make your solutions
resourceful?
The main driver in building Hillcrest has been finding
the right people with the skills needed to create
innovative solutions and who have industry networks
to take that idea from concept to commercial reality.
What, according to you, could be the next significant
change in your sector? How is your company
preparing to be a part of that change?
The shift to zero-emission vehicles and clean energy
generation and storage is happening at warp speed. For
perspective, ICE vehicles and combustion energy
generation have matured over the past 100+ years with
incremental advancements that when combined, get us
to where we are today.
We need to generate the same level of innovative
th
advancements in our clean energy systems in 1/10 the
time - less than 10 years! To do that, we need to take a
dynamic, systems-level approach to create better
solutions.
The ZVS technology platform we’ve developed at
Hillcrest embraces this approach and solves optimizing
the entire system, resulting in more efficient, higher
performing and more reliable ZEV powertrains and
grid-connected renewable energy generation and
storage.
Where do you envision yourself to be in the long run
and what are your future goals for the organization?
We have the technology, the team and the plan to
become a global technology leader by 2027 through
supplying multiple sectors. From ZEV manufacturers to
power generation/storage, we intend to be a top-tier
supplier of power electronic innovations.
What would be your advice to budding entrepreneurs
who aspire to venture into the dynamic industry?
Spend the time needed to build and empower the right
team and trust them to fill those gaps in your own
expertise.
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
22

26. On a Quest
LithiumorFossilFuels?
What Difference Are We
Making?
LithiumorFossilFuels?
What Difference Are We
Making?
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
24

27. n an era characterized by growing environmental
Iconcerns and the need for sustainable energy
sources, the debate between lithium batteries and
fossil fuels has gained significant traction. This article
explores the critical differences between lithium-ion
batteries and fossil fuels, shedding light on the impact
each has on our environment and the global energy
landscape. It also highlights the efforts made towards
transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable energy
alternatives.
The Dominance of Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have been
the primary source of energy for over a century. They
are energy-dense and relatively cheap, making them
the cornerstone of modern industrialization and
transportation. However, the use of fossil fuels comes
at a substantial environmental cost. Burning these fuels
releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse
gases into the atmosphere, contributing significantly to
global warming and climate change.
The Environmental Consequences
Fossil fuels' impact on the environment is undeniable.
The burning of coal and oil not only emits CO2 but also
releases pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides,
and particulate matter, which lead to air pollution, acid
rain, and various health problems. Additionally,
extracting fossil fuels can disrupt ecosystems, harm
wildlife, and cause devastating oil spills, as witnessed in
events like the Deepwater Horizon disaster.
Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Cleaner Alternative?
Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, are emerging
as a promising alternative to fossil fuels in various
applications, including electric vehicles (EVs) and
renewable energy storage. These batteries are
rechargeable and have a longer lifespan than traditional
lead-acid batteries. Moreover, they produce zero
emissions at the point of use, reducing air pollution and
dependence on fossil fuels for transportation and
energy storage.
www.ciolook.com | September 2023 |
25

28. Lithium-ion batteries also play a crucial role in the
proliferation of renewable energy sources like wind and
solar power. They store excess energy generated during
periods of high production and release it when demand
is high, providing a stable and sustainable energy
supply.
Environmental Concerns with Lithium
However, it's essential to acknowledge that lithium-ion
batteries are not entirely without environmental
concerns. The mining and extraction of lithium,
primarily from salt flats and mineral deposits in
countries like Chile, China, and Australia, can have
negative impacts on local ecosystems and water
resources. Additionally, the production process
involves energy-intensive manufacturing and the use of
other metals like cobalt and nickel, which also have
environmental and ethical challenges.
Efforts Towards Sustainability
Recognizing the need for a transition to cleaner energy
alternatives, various stakeholders, including
governments, industries, and researchers, are actively
working to address the environmental issues
associated with both fossil fuels and lithium-ion
batteries.
Ÿ Transition to Renewable Energy: Many countries
are investing in renewable energy sources, such as
wind, solar, and hydropower, to reduce their
reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.
Ÿ Battery Recycling: Efforts are being made to
develop efficient recycling processes for lithium-ion
batteries, reducing the need for new mining and
lowering the environmental impact of battery
production.
Ÿ Materials Innovation: Research is ongoing to find
alternative materials that can replace or reduce the
use of critical metals like cobalt and nickel in
lithium-ion batteries.
Ÿ Green Mining Practices: Initiatives to promote
environmentally responsible mining practices for
lithium are gaining traction, with a focus on
minimizing ecological disruption.
Ongoing Innovation
Electric Vehicle Adoption: The global automotive
industry is rapidly transitioning to electric vehicles,
driven by advancements in battery technology,
government incentives, and consumer demand for
cleaner transportation options.
Grid-Scale Energy Storage: Large lithium-ion battery
installations are being deployed to support grid
stability, enhance the integration of renewables, and
reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based peaker plants.
Materials Research: Scientists are researching
alternative materials for batteries that are less
resource-intensive and have a lower environmental
impact. This includes solid-state batteries and new
electrode materials.
Circular Economy: Initiatives to create a circular
economy for batteries aim to improve recycling rates,
recover valuable materials, and reduce the
environmental footprint of battery production.
Policy and Regulations: Governments worldwide are
implementing policies and regulations to encourage
cleaner energy sources and discourage fossil fuel use.
These include carbon pricing, emissions standards, and
renewable energy targets.
The difference we are making in the transition from
fossil fuels to lithium-ion batteries and other clean
energy solutions is evident in the efforts to mitigate the
environmental impact of both options. While lithium-
ion batteries are not without challenges, they offer a
more sustainable path forward compared to fossil fuels.
The ongoing innovations, investments, and policy
changes signal a growing commitment to addressing
climate change and protecting our planet for future
generations. It's essential that individuals, industries,
and governments continue to collaborate to accelerate
this transition and make a positive difference in the
fight against climate change.
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