OVO Energy has launched its Drive division, focused on bringing new energy solutions for electric vehicle drivers.

Chris Russell, managing director of OVO Drive

The division is presided over by newly appointed managing director Chris Russell, who is responsible for continuing to expand the energy firm’s current electric vehicle offering.

Russell will bring new products and propositions to market for OVO’s existing members, as well developing new partnerships and routes to market. He will also work with Kaluza, OVO’s intelligent software business, on using the technology to optimise members’ devices, building on OVO Energy’s electric vehicle ambitions.

Last month, the business launched its ‘type-of-use’ tariff, powered by Kaluza technology while in 2018, OVO introduced a vehicle-to-grid charger, said to be the world’s first domestic and widely available solution.

Russell was previously co-founder and managing director of Tonik Energy, which was established in 2016, with a focus on offering 100% renewable electricity and new technology and storage solutions.

Commenting on his new role, Russell said: “OVO’s brand, scale, people and capabilities mean we are well placed to lead the way in the electric vehicle market. I look forward to working with the team to make electric vehicles a core part of the OVO proposition, Plan Zero strategy and everyday life.

“OVO Energy has already built a unique electric vehicle capability as a front runner in vehicle-to-grid and Flex technology with Kaluza. We have the opportunity to further leverage these assets to create simple, compelling and differentiated propositions for electric vehicle owners.”