From Racing Cars to Climate Tech
Growing up as the daughter of a family obsessed with car racing, Danielle Walsh had always been around speed and competition. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she became the head of HSBC’s ‘Future Cities’ project, tasked with serving clients’ climate change mandates. In 2018, while reporting into the bank’s technology M&A and acting as its chief data officer, Walsh realized that meeting the ‘net zero’ climate goals in road transportation alone would require trillions of dollars annually.
The Birth of Clearly
This realization sparked an opportunity for Walsh to launch her startup, Clearly, in 2021. Fast-forward to today, and Clearly has closed a seed round of $4.3 million to bolster its flagship product: an AI-driven ‘climate intelligence’ platform aimed at transport fleet operators. The platform’s granular data can alert drivers to optimize their vehicle’s performance for climate-friendly results.
The Problem
Decarbonizing transportation is a vast and costly conundrum, with the sector accounting for 25% of global emissions. Changing vehicles, upgrading energy grids, and more will cost an estimated $1.75 trillion. Meanwhile, transportation emissions are projected to increase by 60% by 2050.
Clearly’s Solution
Clearly’s AI-driven platform can provide real-time data on a fleet’s carbon footprint, identifying areas for improvement and recommending optimal routes. This data is then used to optimize fuel efficiency, reduce waste, and lower emissions.
The Road Ahead
While Clearly has made significant strides in decarbonizing transportation, there are still challenges ahead. The company must navigate the complex landscape of supply chains, regulatory frameworks, and industry partnerships to make its technology scalable and accessible.
A Conversation with Danielle Walsh
We spoke with Danielle about her journey from racing cars to climate tech and what drives her mission to decarbonize transportation.
Mike Butcher: Danielle, congratulations on raising $4.3 million for Clearly! What inspired you to leave the world of car racing behind?
Danielle Walsh: Thanks, Mike! I’ve always been passionate about innovation and solving complex problems. When I realized the scale of the climate crisis, I knew I had to use my skills to make a difference.
Mike Butcher: That’s impressive. How does Clearly’s platform work in practice?
Danielle Walsh: Our AI-driven platform provides real-time data on a fleet’s carbon footprint, identifying areas for improvement and recommending optimal routes. We’re already seeing significant reductions in emissions and fuel consumption.
The Future of Transportation
As the world grapples with climate change, transportation is becoming an increasingly critical sector to address. Clearly’s innovative approach offers a glimmer of hope that we can decarbonize our roads and reduce emissions.
Related Topics:
- Climate tech
- Europe
- Fundraising
- Mobility
- Supply chains
- Transportation