Cleantech Hardware Zero to One: What It Really Takes to Build EV Systems

Details Cleantech is full of big ideas—but turning those ideas into working, scalable hardware is where most teams struggle. Join us for a candid, real-world conversation with Bill Beverley, as he shares what it actually takes to build and deploy electric vehicle and battery systems that don’t just prototype—but perform in the field. With experience spanning aerospace, early EV OEMs, advanced battery technologies, and grid-connected electrification platforms, Bill has spent his career operating at the intersection of complex engineering and real-world execution and has seen firsthand what breaks, what scales, and what never makes it out of development. In this talk, Bill will cover: The gap between ambitious concepts and functional, shippable hardware What actually breaks in EV and battery systems—and how to plan for it Early-stage architecture decisions that can make or derail a program Supplier strategy, certification realities, and manufacturing readiness How to navigate complexity, constraints, and cross-functional execution in high-stakes environments Whether you're a builder, operator, investor—or simply love a great behind-the-scenes tech story—this session offers a candid, grounded look at what it really takes to bring complex cleantech hardware from zero to one and make it work in the real world. About the Speaker Bill Beverley is an engineering and commercial leader with over 22 years of experience across aerospace, electric vehicles, battery technologies, and electrification platforms. He holds six patents in the electrified automotive sector and has held leadership roles at Faraday Future, Romeo Power, IndiEV, and Evolectric. He began his career in aerospace, serving as a technical project lead supporting global companies such as Airbus, Gulfstream, and Boeing, where he developed a strong foundation in systems engineering, safety, and precision. As Co-Founder (and now advisor and board member), Bill led technical strategy, new product development, and program execution at Evolectric, helping bring scalable electrification solutions to market. He now works with companies across mobility, defense, and energy through Bevco, advising on battery system development and deployment. Bill holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Long Beach, where he remains actively involved as Chair of the College of Engineering’s Zero Emissions Workforce Advisory Group and as an advisory board member for the Master of Science in Sustainability Management and Policy program. He is also recognized as part of the university’s “49er under 49” program for Mechanical Engineering. Networking Come early to connect with fellow founders, technologists, creatives, and community members. Friday Coffee Meetup is as much about the people in the room as it is about the conversation on stage. Moderated by: Marsha Swallow Livestream available via Christy Conner on LinkedIn Accessibility: FoundrSpace is in a historic building without elevator access. For accommodations, please email pasadena@foundrspace.com and admin@innovatepasadena.org. Presented by: Echo-Factory & Innovate Pasadena Co-hosted by: CALE at Caltech