Houston innovator drives EV adoption with unique approach to car leasing, smart tech

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Chris George, United States co-lead at Octopus Electric Vehicles, joins the Houston Innovators Podcast. Photo courtesy of Octopus

Switching from a gas-powered car to an electric one can be a big change, but a Houston-based company has made things a lot easier for its customers.

Octopus Electric Vehicles US, a spinout of United Kingdom-based retail energy provider Octopus Energy, matches its users with their perfect EV lease and sets them up with smart electricity technology for at-home charging.

"We do a couple of really unique things that are not only first of its kind but really innovative," Octopus EV's US Co-Lead Chris George says on the Houston Innovators Podcast, pointing out specifically Octopus Energy's Intelligent Octopus, a smart feature for customers that automates energy usage to lower cost.

"We launched an Intelligent Octopus for EVs service. Instead of operating in a very narrow window — overnight — it operates dynamically," he continues.

Pulling from the success of its British EV leasing business, Octopus EV helps Texans find their ideal car to lease from the available pre-owned EVs in the state. The process is hands on, George says, and he and his team are constantly working directly with customers to find them their right make, model, mileage, and more, then setting them up for free home charging with Octopus. All this for as low as $200 a month — perfect for both EV veterans and newbies alike.

"We serve a lot of people. What we're aiming to do is to drive adoption, and we're finding that for most people this is their first EV," George says, explaining that accessibility has been an issue for aspiring EV owners.

The company is rolling out a new process this week. In addition to providing its service in a match-making capacity, now Octopus EV will be showcasing EVs so that customers can browse, test drive, and really get to see what all they like before deciding on a car. George says this new process will be a bit of an experiment.

"We're gong to be showcasing inventory around Houston so customers can see the physical car, the lease price, test drive, and get the car you want," George says. "It's going to look and feel a little different from our current product, but it's going to serve customers just the same."

On the show, George, who previously led EV adoption-focused nonprofit Evolve Houston, shares a bit about the EV industry and what he's closely watching, including growth of charging stations, multifamily charging opportunities, battery technology for EVs and resilience, and perfecting messaging for new and returning customers.

"I'm always trying to think about where are the other things where we can unlock innovation, unlock ideas that help our industry and help Houstonians," George says.

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This article originally ran on InnovationMap.

Texas is positioned to be a great state for the EV industry. Photo by Kindel Media/Pexels

How Texas is on the road to becoming a prime state for EVs, according to this expert

guest column

As Texans adopt electric vehicles, significant strides must be made to ensure public charging meets demand. Steps are being made under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program to address such needs. With new developments promising to bolster the state's infrastructure, it’s only a matter of time until all EV owners will have access to reliable and fast charging options.

NEVI Funding in Texas

Texans will benefit from NEVI funding. This federal initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance EV adoption by providing drivers with a robust and reliable network of fast chargers, particularly along corridors, i.e., highways between Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, etc. To date, Texas has been busy installing 66 fast-charging ports along those key corridors with much more to come (Electrify News Site). There are multiple phases associated with NEVI, and the first 50 sites outlined by the Texas Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Plan have been completed.

Enhanced Accessibility and Convenience

One of the key aspects of the NEVI-funded stations is their strategic placement in areas previously underserved by existing charging networks. This focus not only addresses range anxiety but also ensures a minimum of four chargers per site with a reliability standard of 97 percent uptime. Such strategic deployment is crucial for supporting the widespread use of electric vehicles, especially in a state as vast as Texas (Electrify News Site).

NACS Compatibility and Adapters: Bridging the Gap

To further support all EV drivers, Tesla has opened their previously closed charging network. This network’s charging system is known as the North American Charging Standard, or NACS. This will allow for other brands to leverage the largest and most reliable charging network in Texas and beyond. Now, just about every manufacturer has opted in to the NACS charging ecosystem. This standard will undoubtedly result in more coverage for all EV drivers and a true standard for the industry. You can see the list of manufacturers that have adopted NACS thus far here.

If you already drive a non-Tesla EV, don’t worry. Many manufacturers have embarked upon developing an adapter for you such as Ford. If you drive a Tesla, your options will remain more or less the same. You’ll not need an adapter with future fast charging stations.

At the end of 2023, there were roughly 19,000 Tesla Superchargers and 15,000 from the entirety of the charging community. Tesla aims to add another 7,500 by the end of 2024 in addition to $7.5B from the federal government to support all other charging initiatives.

This move is particularly beneficial for Texas, where the distances between charging stations can be vast. By enabling access to Tesla's superchargers, drivers can embark on long road trips with the assurance that a fast and reliable charging option is never far away. This increased accessibility will likely spur greater EV adoption, as drivers gain confidence in the state's charging infrastructure.

Charging at Home

The concept of fueling and charging EVs at home offers an exciting paradigm shift. Drivers often have to wait for their cars to approach Empty “E” on their dashboard. Some take it all the way down to the red line (or below) while others begin searching for gas stations once they’ve reached a quarter tank.

With EVs however, the average Houstonian who drives ~30 miles a day now has the potential to begin their day with a full charge. Those who have access to home charging can plug their cars in when they get home from work and typically make up for their daily driving/commute with a standard power outlet which offers a customer anywhere from 30-40 miles of charger over a 12 hour period.

But let’s say you’re a super commuter - someone who drives 75 miles a day or more! Starting off with a full charge every day is almost a necessity, and a standard power outlet may not cut it. Luckily, Level 2 chargers exist and serve as an incredible time and money saver. Like the average commuter, a super commuter can simply plug in a level 2 charger, and the EV will be back to full by the time they wake the next morning (offering anywhere from 20-30 miles of charge per hour). Even those who drive 150+ miles a day can confidently use their EVs as a daily driver if they have a Level 2 charger at home.

Embracing the Future

As we look to the future of transport and energy, the synergy between NEVI and Tesla’s network should create a compelling narrative for those thinking about leasing an EV. Combine that with exciting new battery tech and potential range improvements, fueled by West Texas wind and solar, Texas is positioned to be a great state for the EV industry.

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Chris George is the United States co-lead at Octopus Electric Vehicles.

Octopus Energy announced its new program to help make the move to electric vehicle driving easier and more affordable for Texas residents. Photo via Getty Images

Houston renewable energy co. rolls out new EV program

in the driver seat

A Houston-based renewable energy provider has announced a new program to get more electric vehicle drivers on Texas roads.

Octopus Electric Vehicles, a new initiative from Houston-based Octopus Energy Group, announced its DriveFree leasing program to help make the move to electric vehicle driving easier and more affordable for Texas residents.

“DriveFree gives you the freedom to drive without worrying about the cost of filling the tank or unexpected maintenance expenses,” Octopus EV US Co-Lead Nathan Wyeth says in a news release. “With the ‘electric fuel’ for daily driving included, DriveFree is the complete package to make EVs work for Texas drivers looking to lower their driving costs without locking themselves in.”

DriveFree will include the lease of a top-quality pre-owned car with all maintenance covered. Part of this coverage includes unlimited home charging on Octopus Energy’s home energy plan.

According to Octopus Energy Group, Texas drivers will save an average of over $1,000 per year by switching from a gas car to an EV with potential to save even more depending on the previous gas vehicle make and model. Houstonians will be able to select an EV and DriveFree plan at OctopusEV.us, get approved online, and schedule delivery by an Octopus EV Specialist.

The program will cover all maintenance and tires through a mobile mechanic service to a customer’s home or office. Leasing plans range from one to four years with mileage plans up to 25,000 miles/year, and 4 brands to choose from.

In a report by SmartAsset, Texas was No. 41 of states with the most electric vehicle chargers. Last year, the city of Houston approved $281,000 funding for the expansion of free electric vehicle rideshare services in communities that are considered underserved by utilizing services like RYDE and Evolve Houston in December. DriveFree is now in the mix in helping Texas get more involved in the mix.

“With DriveFree, we wanted to address all the concerns people have about switching to electric vehicles,” Octopus EV US Co-Lead Chris George says in the news release. “For the millions of Houstonians commuting to work, driving electric can be a money saver today. For the first time, the more miles you drive, the more your savings will be!”

Octopus Electric Vehicles is part of the U.K.’s Octopus Energy Group, which first launched Octopus Energy US in Texas in 2020 after its acquisition of Evolve Energy.

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6+ must-attend Houston energy transition events for May 2026

Mark Your Calendars

Editor's note: May is starting off strong with two of the month's largest events beginning on Monday, May 4: Enverus Evolve Conference and OTC. Mark your calendars and begin registering now.

May 4-6, 2026 — Enverus Evolve Conference

Staying ahead of the curve in the energy sector is critical. This conference is designed to equip energy leaders with foresight in the energy market, providing cutting-edge technological know-how, sessions and networking opportunities industry leaders, and offering practical guidance on how to apply technology to solve big problems.

This event begins May 4 at Marriott Marquis, Downtown Houston. Register here.

May 4-7, 2026 — OTC 2026

The world’s largest offshore energy technology event returns to Houston beginning May 4. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, president of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, will officially open the 2026 Offshore Technology Conference, delivering the Opening Address on May 4. This year's event will be cover the theme of "Steering Offshore Energy Innovation into the Future," emphasizes the pivotal role oil and gas, along with other emerging offshore energy sources, will play in shaping a sustainable and energy-secure future.

This event begins May 4 NRG Park. Register here.

May 14, 2026 — Gulf Coast ASSP Energy Corridor Section Meeting

At this lunchtime session, Chris Garza will speak on “Demystifying Regulatory Frameworks.” This session provides a comprehensive overview of key regulatory requirements concerning air quality, water discharge, and land management. Attendees will gain actionable insights into permits, reporting obligations, pollution prevention planning, and hazardous waste management. This session demystifies regulatory frameworks and empowers businesses to meet their legal responsibilities while promoting a culture of environmental stewardship. Attendees are welcome to stay for lunch and networking after the session.

This event takes place May 14 at 960 Memorial City Way. Register here.

May 16, 2026 — Energy Valuation Conference

ASA Houston's 16th annual EVC brings together energy valuation professionals and industry thought leaders to present timely educational valuation topics, with a focus on valuation impacts in the transition of power generation from fossil fuel to non-carbon, renewables, sustainable energy

This event takes place May 16 at The Briar Club, and there will be a live webcast. Register here.

May 18-19, 2026 — Geothermal Transition Summit North America

This two-day summit serves as the meeting point for the geothermal and oil and gas industries and will focus on geothermal energy, including scaling plants and navigating state regulations. The event promises 40 expert speakers, 15 exhibition spaces, and networking opportunities with 250 industry decision makers.

This event begins May 18 at Norris Conference Center. Register here.

May 20-21, 2026 — ESF North America

ESF North America returns for its 5th edition, under the theme of “innovation and adaptation.” Attendees will explore how technology, innovation, and collaboration can drive a resilient, competitive refining and chemicals industry.

This event begins May 20 at The Westin Oaks Houston at the Galleria. Register here.

Houston scientists unveil faster, low-energy method to recycle lithium-ion batteries

Battery breakthrough

Rice University researchers have uncovered a more energy-efficient and faster way to recycle critical minerals from used lithium-ion batteries.

Traditional methods rely on high heat, long processing times and harsh chemicals to recover a small fraction of critical materials from batteries used in everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, the team from Rice's Department of Materials Science and Nanoengineering developed a process that uses a water-based solution containing amino chlorides to extract more metals in less time

The team published the findings in a recent edition of the scientific journal Small.

Simon King, a sophomore studying chemical and biomolecular engineering who completed this work as a summer research fellow at the Rice Advanced Materials Institute, served as first author of the study. He worked with corresponding authors Pulickel Ajayan, the Benjamin M. and Mary Greenwood Anderson Professor of Engineering, and Sohini Bhattacharyya, a research scientist in Ajayan’s lab.

By using a hydroxylammonium chloride (HACI) solution, the team achieved roughly 65 percent extraction of key battery metals in just one minute at room temperature, according to the study. The efficiencies grew to roughly 75 percent for several metals under longer processing times.

“We were surprised by just how fast the reaction occurs, especially without the involvement of high temperatures,” King said in a news release. “Within the first minute, we’re already seeing the majority of the metal extraction take place.”

By not requiring high temperatures or long reaction times, Rice predicts the process could have a major impact on cost and the environmental impact of lithium battery recycling. Additionally, the water-based HACI solution makes waste handling easier and lowers certain environmental risks.

In addition to extracting the materials, the team went on to demonstrate that the recovered metals could be recycled and reprocessed into new battery materials.

“A big advantage of this system is that it works under relatively mild conditions,” Ajayan added in the release. “That opens the door to more sustainable and scalable recycling technologies.”

Fervo IPO leads Houston energy transition headlines for April

Hot Topics

Editor's note: The top Houston energy transition news of the month includes Fervo's official steps towards an IPO and Houston universities teaming up for recycling innovation. Below are the five most-read EnergyCapital stories published April 16-30, 2026:

Fervo Energy officially files for initial public offering

Fervo Energy has officially filed for IPO. The Houston-based geothermal unicorn filed a registration statement on Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 17 to list its Class A common stock on the Nasdaq exchange. Fervo intends to be listed under the ticker symbol "FRVO." Continue reading.

Fervo Energy adds former eBay CEO Meg Whitman, other leaders to board

As it prepares for a highly anticipated IPO, Houston-based geothermal power provider Fervo Energy has added four heavyweights to its board of directors. The most notable new board member is Meg Whitman, former CEO of eBay, Hewlett-Packard, and Spring-based HPE, and former U.S. ambassador to Kenya. She joined the Fervo board as lead independent director. Continue reading.

Tesla's EV Robotaxis officially launch in Texas' largest metros

Tesla’s Robotaxi service has taken to the streets of Houston. In a brief statement Saturday, April 18 on its X social media account, Tesla Robotaxi says the autonomous rideshare service just launched in Texas’ two biggest metro areas — Houston and Dallas. Continue reading.

Halliburton Labs names 4 new clean energy startups to incubator

Four new companies have joined Halliburton Labs, the incubator for early-stage energy and climate startups run by Houston energy giant Halliburton. Halliburton Labs provides the emerging companies with mentorship, industry connections, laboratory access and other resources as they work toward commercialization. Continue reading.

Rice, UH launch joint effort to accelerate plastics recycling solutions

Institutes at two Houston universities are joining forces to help position the city as a global leader in plastics recycling innovation. The Center for Energy Studies (CES) at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy and the University of Houston’s Energy Transition Institute (UH-ETI) have announced a strategic partnership that aims to develop real-world solutions for plastic recycling. Continue reading.

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