Revving Up EV Repairs
WORDS BY INNOVATION GROUP
The transport industry is one of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions . With Australia ’ s focus on reducing carbon emissions , EVs have become an increasingly popular option for individuals and businesses alike .
Innovation is driving our clients , and new technologies are being developed to support their transition . Charging stations are being installed across Australia , and advancements in battery technology are increasing the range of electric vehicles , making them more practical for longer journeys .
One of our major clients , Australia Post has recently deployed its first EV Truck as part of a six-month trial . This electrical FL utilises 4 batteries achieving an energy capacity of 2654kWh and has a range of around 300 kilometres ( depending on its payload ). The truck also sports the rigorous Swedish BOF10 crash rating .
But what happens if your EV is involved in an accident ?
Which repairers are qualified to repair an EV safely and properly after an accident ? Add to this the ongoing delay of spare parts for fuel-based cars , would we experience the same delay for EV ’ s ?
How would a repairer support your decision to become more environmentally friendly ?
Let ’ s consider the most common repairs needed on an EV .
• Regenerative Brake Failure
• Dent Repairs
• Electrical battery replacement
• Fluid Refuel
• Bad Battery Cables
• Operating System Issues
• Flat Tyre Replacement
An EV typically requires less maintenance than the convention fuel-based vehicle . With fewer intricate mechanical working parts . But they do present possible difficulties with large parts such as their high voltage battery systems , light weight complex materials , and the need for additional repair time . Therefore , EV ’ s present as a complex fix when it comes to smash repair .
It is estimated , by industry experts , that EV ’ s can cost anywhere between 50-60 % more to repair than a petrol or diesel vehicle .
• Higher cost for scan / calibration – with many of EV models equipped with ADAS technology , their repairs more often include operations like scan and calibration . Accidents can cause a ‘ concussion ’ inside
12 ISSUE 40 MAY 2023 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU