Simply EV: Our journey

In the words of founder Rahul Chacko

When my previous internal combustion engine (ICE) car failed its MOT and became too expensive to fix, I had to replace it and found myself at a crossroads: another ICE or a switch to electric? I decided to make the switch to an EV, a decision that was both exciting and daunting. The journey of transitioning to an EV was filled with a myriad of new information and practicalities that I had to navigate completely on my own, with the help of the internet (the information available was not always accurate or factual). From understanding charging infrastructure to getting to grips with the different driving dynamics, it was a steep learning curve.

As I delved deeper into the world of electric vehicles, I realised that there was a significant gap in the market. Lack of knowledge, coupled with misinformation about EVs, is a significant barrier to EV adoption (see the reports referred to on the home page of this website).There was no comprehensive service available to support individuals like myself who were either considering the switch to an EV or had recently made the transition. This realisation sparked a passion in me to create a solution that would make this journey smoother and more accessible for others but also share my love of EVs because they are fundamentally great family cars: safe, comfortable, reliable, up-to-date and modern.

Thus, Simply EV was born. I wanted to provide workshops and personalised consultancy services that would demystify the process of switching to an electric vehicle, without any pressure or hard-selling. My goal was to offer a service that would empower people with the knowledge and confidence they needed to make informed decisions about EVs. Building on my own experiences and insights, I aimed to create a supportive community for those embarking on this exciting journey.

When I developed the idea, conducted research, attended events and networked with key players in the sector, I realised that there was an opportunity to extend the service offering to the corporate and public sectors, to support organisations with their aim of increased EV adoption, either for employees or customers. Finally, having had previous experience of working directly with children, it occurred to me that a fun, lively, interactive offering for schools would benefit children and help set them up for an electric future.

Starting Simply EV has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has allowed me to combine my enthusiasm for EVs with my desire to help others. I am excited about the future of electric vehicles and am committed to making the transition as seamless as possible for every driver. Together, we can drive (no pun intended...) towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Rahul Chacko, Founder

Rahul has spent many years working for the public sector prior to founding Simply EV and continues his public sector role alongside his work with Simply EV. His roles have included frontline work, as well as learning and development (L&D), giving him a strong background in developing and delivering training, workshops and embedding learning while working with individual learning needs and styles.

Rahul's qualifications include a Master's degree and other additional post-graduate qualifications. He is an affiliate member of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), a professional body founded in 1920 which is at the forefront of driving innovation, skills and professional competence for the automotive industry. He is also a member of the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) England, a member association that represents EV drivers.

In addition to significant personal research, networking, attending EV events, personal experience and hands-on practical experience, Rahul has completed many hours of online learning from the Institute of the Motor Industry and other sources covering Electric Vehicles, EV Batteries, technology, and other relevant subjects. Rahul is dedicated to staying up-to-date with key information and trends regarding Electric Vehicles. He does this through his IMI and EVA memberships and many other trusted, reliable and industry sources, so that Simply EV customers can always rest assured they are getting the most up-to-date information and advice.

Rahul is trained as a Mental Health First Aider and is also certified by Mental Health First Aid England to deliver the Mental Health First Aid course as an instructor. This gives him a unique insight into understanding and supporting people with mental health difficulties. Rahul has a particular passion for helping people overcome barriers caused by anxiety, mental health or any particular need, including learning needs, so that they can accomplish their goals.

In his personal life, Rahul enjoys spending time with his wife and two very active boys. His particular interests in addition to EVs include reading (book preferences eclectic), music (preferably 1960s: think Dylan, Beatles, Kinks and you've got it) and the glorious Sussex Countryside. He is addicted to coffee. He would like an EV that can also brew the driver a perfect espresso and whose interiors can transform into a cafe.