As the industry continues to struggle with repairs for Electric vehicles (EV’s) we have sorted insight and updates from our insurer partners to help provide some explanations.
In an attempt to improve “range” many manufacturers are introducing new technologies known as “cell-to-body” or “cell-to-pack” for their battery supply. However, these new battery packs actually reduce the options for repair if damaged and it is believed may result of more write-offs or total losses for these vehicles.
In an attempt to avoid long delays for the repair of EV’s the industry is encouraging suppliers to offer cost-effective and practical battery exchange schemes to combat fewer repair options.
Some manufacturers have shifted their plans and, in an attempt, to combat US tariffs begun production of new batteries in the US. Whilst it is hoped that this does not directly increase the price of the vehicle it could affect production and supply chain meaning an impact to the cost and availability of EV components in the future.
Manufacturers are at odds to decide whether or not the introduction of tariffs in the US will impact on the price you pay for your vehicle, what is in agreement is that these tariffs will reduce the number of features included as standard in an attempt to combat the tariffs.
This may also result in more “paid-for” optional extra’s or the removal of some entry level models which could in-turn affect vehicle availability.
More and more manufacturers are investigating car designs and models that are more sustainable, using less wiring and more recycled materials in attempt to reduce cost and weight. There are however still concerns that the battery technology used will be harder to repair and as a result increase replacement cost.
All of the above will be of particular interest to fleet operators who can expect to be hit harder the most for availability, pricing and specification of vehicles. Increased repair costs and harder to replace components could also raise the cost of ownership and reduce flexibility.
