Know why cost of repairing EV skyrocketing
The rise in adoption of Electric Vehicle (EV) has also resulted in the increase in cost of repairing these vehicles gradually.
The surge in Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption has brought unforeseen challenges to the automotive industry, particularly in the realm of repairs and insurance. Reports indicate a troubling trend where insurers are opting to write off EVs, even with minor damages, citing safety concerns related to battery casings. The lack of understanding among repair shops and manufacturers’ reluctance to share repair information contribute to the escalating costs of EV repairs.
Rising EV number, soaring repairing bills
With the number of EVs on the road doubling in the past three years in the UK and a projected record of over 1 million EVs to be sold in the US this year, a corresponding increase in accidents involving these vehicles is inevitable. However, concerns about potential battery-related safety issues lead insurers to take extreme measures, including declaring entire EVs as total losses for minor damages.
Repair shops, often unfamiliar with assessing and repairing EV batteries, face challenges in meeting insurance demands. A lack of official repair procedures and difficulties in obtaining parts result in substantial costs, with some repairs exceeding 10,000 euros ($12,430). Industry experts suggest that the fear surrounding EVs is rooted in a lack of understanding and clear repair guidelines.
Manufacturers exacerbate the problem by making it challenging for mechanics to access essential information and parts for EV repairs. Some EV models have quirks that go undisclosed, and manufacturers are hesitant to release part numbers or provide replacement parts for battery systems. Repair experts argue that a more transparent approach from manufacturers could significantly reduce repair costs and improve overall safety.
Solutions to lessen repairing costs
Experts propose simple design changes, such as additional protective shielding for batteries or allowances for minor scratches, as potential solutions to eliminate unnecessary repair costs. Manufacturers could provide clear instructions in repair manuals to guide mechanics on acceptable damages and repair procedures. Openness from manufacturers, as seen in the case of BMW, can limit repair work to only the affected parts, reducing overall costs.
Additionally, the afterlife of EV batteries presents an opportunity for sustainable solutions. Businesses like Second Life EV Batteries in Dorset, England, are repurposing unwanted battery packs for applications such as solar panel electricity storage systems and even light aircraft. This not only minimizes waste but also showcases the potential for a second life for EV batteries.
Ms Kalinga