Octopus EV names permanent CEO to boost net-zero EV growth

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. In a significant leadership shake-up within the electric mobility sector, Octopus Electric Vehicles has confirmed Gurjeet Grewal as its permanent Chief Executive Officer. This appointment marks a new chapter for the UK’s leading EV-only leasing specialist and underscores the growing momentum behind decarbonising road transport nationwide.

Net Zero News can reveal that Gurjeet Grewal’s elevation to CEO was ratified this week by Octopus Electric Vehicles’ board of directors. Based in London, the company unveiled this decision following a successful interim tenure during which Grewal steered rapid fleet expansion and strengthened partnerships with vehicle manufacturers. His permanent appointment comes as the UK government intensifies efforts to accelerate the shift away from internal combustion engines in line with its 2050 net-zero commitment.

Octopus Electric Vehicles was founded in 2019 as a division of Octopus Energy Group, specialising exclusively in leasing battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Under Grewal’s stewardship, the business achieved record leasing volumes in 2024 and launched a dedicated platform to integrate EV charging services for both corporate and consumer clients. His strategic focus on seamless customer experience and sustainability principles has helped the firm lead industry benchmarks for vehicle uptime and chargepoint accessibility.

Grewal joins at a pivotal moment for the UK’s transport decarbonisation agenda. The Department for Transport aims to see all new cars and vans zero-emission capable from 2035, and Net Zero News understands this forms part of the government’s wider ZEV mandate and Clean Road Transport strategy. The transition to electric fleets is widely recognised as crucial for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, reducing roadside pollution and meeting legally binding carbon budgets.

In a significant step towards the UK’s net-zero goals, Octopus Electric Vehicles under Grewal is targeting the lease of 40,000 electric vehicles by the end of 2026. This ambition could translate into annual emissions savings of over 120,000 tonnes of CO₂ by replacing equivalent petrol and diesel models. Furthermore, the company has committed to train an additional 150 EV charging technicians by 2025, supporting job creation in the burgeoning clean transport sector.

Funding and delivery of these ambitions are backed by Octopus Energy’s parent group, which has invested over £120 million in its electric vehicle arm since 2020. Strategic partnerships with major OEMs such as Volkswagen, BMW and Nissan underpin a diversified fleet portfolio. Net Zero News understands that Grewal will spearhead negotiations for further alliances with fast-growing EV manufacturers and charging infrastructure providers to ensure nationwide coverage.

This leadership appointment and Octopus Electric Vehicles’ expansion roadmap align closely with the UK’s wider policy context. As part of the Net Zero Strategy published in October 2021, the government pledged substantial support for EV uptake, including grants for home and workplace chargepoints. The move towards electrified transport is also embedded in regional plans such as Scotland’s Transport Decarbonisation Action Plan, highlighting the cross-jurisdictional nature of Britain’s climate strategy.

Local communities and industry stakeholders are set to benefit from Octopus Electric Vehicles’ growth under Grewal. Corporate fleet operators will gain access to a more flexible and cost-effective electric leasing service, while public sector bodies can leverage tailored solutions that meet stringent environmental procurement standards. At the same time, increased demand for qualified engineers and maintenance staff will bolster local economies and promote skills development.

Looking ahead, Gurjeet Grewal will oversee the rollout of new digital service portals and customer analytics platforms designed to optimise charging behaviour and maximise vehicle availability. Net Zero News anticipates that further announcements on fleet electrification targets, offshore charging hubs and employee incentive programmes will follow before the close of 2025. This next phase aims to solidify Octopus Electric Vehicles’ position as a driving force in the UK’s journey to net zero.

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