The auto industry is rapidly transitioning from gasoline-powered vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). This monumental shift is expected to completely transform the automotive service and repair sector. As EVs gain market share, the role of mechanics will need to adapt in order to service these new technologically advanced vehicles.
How do EVs differ from gas-powered cars?
EVs have a fundamentally different powertrain compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Instead of a gasoline engine, EVs are propelled by one or more electric motors powered by a battery pack. Some key differences include:
Simpler drivetrain
– EVs have far fewer moving parts – no engine, transmission, spark plugs, valves, belts etc. This makes them more reliable and reduces maintenance needs.
Advanced electronics
– EVs rely heavily on software, sensors and computing. The battery pack needs sophisticated thermal and charge management.
New repair challenges
– High voltage electrical systems require safety training. Repairing batteries and motors requires different techniques/tools.
Regenerative braking
– Brake pads last longer because EVs use regenerative braking which converts motion back into electricity.
How will the role of mechanics change?
The shift to EVs will require mechanics to upgrade their skills and knowledge. Here are some of the key ways the mechanic’s role will evolve:
Training on high voltage systems
– Mechanics will need proper training and certification for working on the high voltage battery packs and cabling in EVs. Safety around these systems is paramount.
Diagnostics and software skills
– EVs require connecting to the vehicle’s computer for diagnostics. Mechanics will need to use scan tools, understand data and analyze sensor outputs. Software and firmware updates are common.
Less routine maintenance
– With fewer fluids and mechanical parts, the regular maintenance workload like oil changes, tune-ups and belt/hose replacements will be reduced.
More electrical repairs
– Expect more work troubleshooting electrical issues like battery and motor malfunctions, connectivity problems, wiring faults and onboard computer bugs.
New specialties
– Some mechanics may specialize further in areas like battery servicing, motor/generator repair, high voltage systems, and advanced diagnostics.
Equipment investments
– Shops will need to invest in EV-specific tools like insulation testers, battery/motor simulators and scan tools to service these new systems.
How mechanics can prepare for the transition
Here are some proactive steps mechanics should take to prepare for the rise of EVs:
Seek out EV training
– Get access to courses and certifications to work on EVs safely. Automakers and various trade schools offer programs to get up to speed.
Gain hands-on experience
– Find opportunities to work on actual EVs to become comfortable handling high voltage systems and diagnosis. Intern at an EV shop if needed.
Invest in tools and equipment
– Start acquiring necessary EV-specific tools for servicing batteries, electronics, cables, etc if your shop lacks them. Buying used/refurbished can save on costs.
Study system design
– Understanding EV powertrain architecture, battery chemistry and charging systems will help diagnose issues more effectively. Read service manuals and specifications.
Learn new diagnostic software
– Get familiar with EV diagnostic programs and scan tools. Having the ability to access computerized systems is key.
Consider an EV specialty
– Mechanics interested in EV systems long-term may decide to specialize in certain components like batteries, motors, or charging stations.
| Service | ICE Vehicles | EVs |
|---|---|---|
| Oil changes | Decline | None |
| Engine air filter replacement | Decline | None |
| Spark plug replacement | Decline | None |
| Coolant flushes | Decline | Some |
| Transmission service | Decline | None |
| Brake pad replacement | Decline | Decline |
| Battery maintenance | Some | High |
| Electrical diagnostics | Some | High |
| Charging system service | None | High |
| Motor/generator repair | None | Some |
Impact on auto repair shops
The transition to EVs will significantly impact the automotive service industry:
Investing in new equipment
– Shops must buy new tools, scan tools, lifts, charging stations and safety gear to work on EVs. This will require major investments spreading costs over time.
Training technicians
– Extensive training is needed to upgrade mechanics’ skills and maintain competence as vehicles change. Shops must budget for this ongoing education.
Adapting maintenance programs
– With fewer oil changes and tune-ups, shops will need to shift more focus to projects like brakes, batteries, electrical and electronics.
Expanding service offerings
– Additional services like EV inspections, battery swaps, charging station installation and software updates may be needed.
Competing with dealerships
– Dealer shops are likely to capture much of the EV service market initially, competing with local repair shops.
Servicing aging hybrid/EV fleets
– As earlier generation hybrid/EVs age, aftermarket shops will start seeing more of them out of warranty. Expertise will be critical.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Charging stations | $4,000 per unit |
| EV lift | $8,000 |
| Safety equipment | $3,000 |
| High voltage tools | $10,000 |
| Scan tools | $5,000 |
| Technician training | $5,000 per person |
| Estimated Total | $50,000+ |
Opportunities for mechanics in an EV future
While the transition brings many challenges, there are also new opportunities for mechanics:
Become an EV specialist
– Develop expertise in EV components like battery systems, power electronics, and charging to become a go-to shop.
Perform software updates
– With over-the-air updates being common, mechanics can offer software installation and debugging services.
Build fast charging stations
– EV growth will drive demand for more public fast charging stations which shops can install and maintain.
Partner with EV fleets
– Fleet vehicles will be among the earliest EVs. Shops can pursue partnerships with local companies to service their large-scale EV needs.
Enter EV parts supply chain
– Specializing in remanufacturing or recycling EV batteries or other components can create a valuable niche role.
Provide mobile EV service
– Offering mobile EV repair and charging allows serving customers conveniently when vehicles can’t easily come to the shop.
Add used EV sales
– Selling affordable used EVs along with servicing them can appeal to buyers hesitant about new vehicle costs.
Adapting to the future
Transitioning from a century of gasoline vehicles to electric is a major shift. For auto repair shops and mechanics, adapting to service EVs is essential for remaining viable. While the learning curve is steep, those who embrace the opportunity to upgrade their skills and capabilities can build a thriving business for the future. With EVs projected to dominate sales in the coming decades, this represents an enormous addressable market for shops able to service these cutting edge vehicles. Mechanics who prepare themselves today will be well positioned to profit from the EV revolution ahead.
Conclusion
The rise of electric vehicles will profoundly transform the role mechanics play in the automotive service industry. As gasoline engines are phased out, mechanics will need extensive retraining on EV systems, particularly high voltage safety and diagnosis. Maintenance tasks will shift dramatically towards electronics, batteries, software and electrified components. Significant investments in tools and equipment will be required as well. For repair shops able to upgrade their capabilities and expertise early, focusing on EVs provides a major opportunity to capture a growing share of the market. Adaptation and evolution will be key for mechanics flourishing in the EV era. Those embracing the challenge stand to benefit greatly from the coming transition.