Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity among drivers due to their low maintenance requirements. With fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engines (ICEs), EVs offer a simpler and more reliable alternative. However, this lack of service requirements has led manufacturers to seek alternative revenue streams in order to cover their ongoing costs. As a result, subscription packages for add-ons and services are becoming more common among automakers like BMW and Tesla.
Manufacturers like BMW and Tesla are starting to offer subscription packages for add-ons and services as a way to generate additional revenue. This shift in business model is driven by the fact that EVs require less maintenance, which means they lose out on the revenue typically generated from regular servicing and maintenance. By offering subscription packages, automakers hope to make up for this loss and maintain a steady stream of income.
For example, BMW has come under scrutiny for its plan to install heated seats as a standard feature and then ask drivers to pay a monthly fee to activate them. This controversial move is seen as an attempt by BMW to offset the revenue lost from traditional maintenance and servicing. It remains to be seen whether such subscription models will be embraced by consumers or if they will seek alternative solutions.
One of the reasons why EVs require less maintenance compared to ICEs is the simplicity of their electric motors and battery packs. Otmar Scharrer, head of engineering of electrified powertrain technology at ZF, a producer of gearboxes and EV motors, explains that EV drivetrains are virtually maintenance-free over their entire service life. While ICEs require regular checks to change the oil and oil filter, electric drivetrains do not have these requirements. However, depending on the design and usage of the EV, it may be necessary to check the oil level in the reduction gearbox or the oil cooling system after many years of operation.
Another advantage of EVs is the long warranty period for their batteries. EV batteries usually come with warranties that last up to eight years, which is often longer than the warranty for the overall car itself. This provides consumers with peace of mind and confidence in the longevity of their EVs. However, as the first batches of EVs with extended battery warranties begin to reach the end of their warranty periods, independent EV specialists see this as a massive opportunity to provide battery-related services.
While EVs are generally reliable, there have been occasional issues with electronic components such as chargers and inverters. These components, when faulty, can be expensive to repair or replace. However, these problems are not common, and the aftermarket is finding affordable solutions to address them.
One challenge for independent garages is the use of coded parts by manufacturers. If a coded part fails, it cannot be replaced with an off-the-shelf replacement because the car’s computer will reject it. Overcoming this issue requires extensive collaboration with electronic control unit manufacturers, trial and error with replacement parts, and reverse-engineering. Despite this challenge, the aftermarket is finding ways to overcome the coding issue and provide effective solutions.
Another area where EVs differ from ICEs is in their braking system. EVs use regenerative braking, which means much of the deceleration is done by the motors instead of the traditional disc and pad braking system. This regenerative braking not only reduces wear on the braking components but also allows for the adoption of one-pedal driving. One-pedal driving is a technique where the car can be brought to a standstill without touching the brake pedal, further minimizing the need for traditional brake maintenance.
In conclusion, the low maintenance requirements of EVs make them desirable for drivers. However, manufacturers are facing the challenge of finding alternative revenue streams to cover their ongoing costs. Subscription packages for add-ons and services are becoming more common as a way for automakers to generate additional income. Despite the simplicity and reliability of EVs, there are occasional issues with electronic components that can be costly to repair. Independent garages also face challenges with coded parts, but the aftermarket is finding solutions to overcome this hurdle. Overall, the maintenance landscape for EVs is evolving, and as battery warranties expire, there is a growing opportunity for independent EV specialists.
