Overview:
In this PTR Perspective episode, Saqib Saeed, Chief Product Officer at PTR Inc., engages with Matt M. Ersin, Senior Director at Fastned, a Dutch company that owns and operates a growing network of fast charging stations across the Europe. Founded in 2012, Fastned is committed to accelerating the transition to electric mobility by providing convenient, high-speed charging solutions. In this insightful episode, Matt shares his perspectives on the European policies driving the future of e-mobility, highlighting one of the key obstacles in the transition—affordability. He discusses the impact of tariffs on Chinese vehicles and whether they will benefit the industry or not, and offers recommendations on what governments should prioritize to drive meaningful change. Matt also discusses the growing trends in e-mobility, emphasizing the crucial role of battery investments and access to raw materials as vital components for advancing the sector. He reflects on the urgency of climate change and its direct connection to the need for sustainable transportation solutions. In addition, Matt stresses the importance of a skilled workforce in shaping the future of e-mobility, and dives into the reliability of EV chargers—drawing comparisons between the U.S. and European e-mobility markets. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities in the e-mobility landscape and offers valuable insights for industry professionals and stakeholders invested in building a sustainable future for transportation.
Speakers
Matt M. Ersin // Senior Director Government and Public Affairs – Fastned
Matt M. Ersin is a political advisor with a strong background in governmental affairs and international relations, particularly within the European Union and regulatory policies. His diverse career includes advising government bodies, international organizations, and private companies in over 30 countries on sustainable development and good governance. After a decade in diplomatic service and journalism, Matt moved into an advisory role, leading significant programs for the EU Commission and providing strategic advice on international affairs to high-level US and European politicians. He has joined FASTNED in Amsterdam as the Senior Director of Government and Public Affairs while continuing to reside in Brussels and apply his global policy insights and diplomatic expertise.
Saqib Saeed // Chief Product Officer – PTR Inc.
Saqib is a highly accomplished market research professional and a data storyteller in the international energy industry. With over a decade of experience in the field, he currently serves as the Chief Product Officer at PTR Inc. His expertise lies in the power grid and e-mobility equipment sectors. Saqib has overseen numerous global market research studies throughout his career and provided valuable insights to key decision-makers at various Fortune 500 companies. He is a member of the editorial board for Transformers Magazine and a member of the Advisory board of CWIEME Berlin and Middle East Energy. In addition to his market research career, Saqib has worked as an Electrical Engineer in the manufacturing sector.
