Vertical Aerospace Electric Aircraft Interview: Farnborough Airshow and Mel Stride on Energy Policy

Electric flight is moving from concept to reality.Recorded at Farnborough International Airshow 2026, this episode explores the technology, engineering challenges and energy infrastructure behind the next generation of aviation, two years on from our first visit.Alex speaks with Vertical Aerospace's Sergio Minguela about their electric aircraft programme, battery systems, charging challenges, certification and the journey towards commercial operations. With more than 1,500 pre-orders announced, the Bristol-based company is aiming to bring electric and hybrid aircraft into service by the end of the decade.The episode also features the Shadow Chancellor, Mel Stride, discussing the UK's defence sector, industrial opportunities, regulation and how emerging technologies could support economic growth.GIVEAWAY!To celebrate our 100th episode, we're giving away a 45-47 MAGA hat! To enter, please:• Leave a comment on any of our social platforms, telling us what your favourite episode or moment from our back catalogue is.Please see links to our socials at the bottom of the description. We will inform you if you have won. Good luck!BiographiesSergio Minguela is an aerospace and electronics engineering professional currently serving as the Head of Power & BMS (Battery Management Systems) at Vertical Aerospace. Based in Bristol, United Kingdom, he plays a key role in developing and certifying electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.Mel Stride is a British Conservative Party politician who has been serving as Kemi Badenoch's Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer since November 2024. He has continually been the Member of Parliament (MP) for Central Devon since May 2010.About The HostHost Alex Wolfe has over 20 years of experience in the energy industry, including previously serving as Commercial Director at Certas Energy and Director of the South, with responsibility for 900 fuel HGVs. In addition, he has led M&A activity, ran Hollies Truck Stop, and was a Director of the 5th largest fuel company in the UK. Currently, Alex not only hosts the Wolfe Power Club Podcast but also chairs The Spectator Energy Summit.Season Two is in Partnership with The SpectatorTickets for the upcoming The Spectator Energy Summit, on Monday 30th November 2026, are available on sale. Use code: WPC50 for 50% off your purchaseIf you would like to partner with The Spectator Energy Summit, please contact Alex on LinkedIn or [email protected] Our SocialsWebsite: https://www.wolfepowerclub.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WolfePowerClubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfe-power-club/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfepowerclub/?hl=enTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wolfe.power.club Wolfe Power Club Production TeamFounder and Host: Alex WolfeDirector of Government Relations: Max AustinDesigner: Nick PelekanosEditor: Adam WoodwardSocial Media Manager: Bella Carter Recorded at Studio 55 - which has produced podcasts, including Breaking the Taboo with Theo Clarke and The ABTO Podcast