ELECTRIC VEHICLES WILL CHANGE THE WAY WE WORK

By Max Reid

Talk of electric vehicles is abuzz lately— but what do collision centres really need to prepare for in the interim as EVs gain popularity?

“It is really a very different process, not only in terms of writing an estimate for an electric vehicle but blueprinting that repair as well to really make sure you’re bringing that vehicle back to pre-loss condition,” said Ryan Mandell of Mitchell International, in an interview with Collision Repair at the September’s Fix Network National Conference in Quebec City.

As director of performance consulting at Mitchell International, Mandell delved into the numerous factors that make EV repairs more complex, more costly, and more necessary than ever for shops to have a grasp on.

He touched on the weight of EV batteries and the subsequent lightweighting traditional gas-powered models must undergo to account for it, in turn causing a drive among OEMs to develop lighter materials and metals for parts.

Mandell says that, on average, EVs are found to contain more than double the number of semiconductors than a gas-powered vehicle and often have about 12 more repair lines on their estimates.

Mandell says that, on average, EVs are found to contain more than double the number of semiconductors than a gas-powered vehicle and often have about 12 more repair lines on their estimates.

He points to Subaru, Ram and Chrysler as the three major, non-luxury OEMs currently producing the most electronically complex vehicles on the road today. With the aim of eliminating as much confusion for technicians as possible, Mitchell made a point of updating the language in many of its management platforms this year, in order to conform more repair procedures to EV-specific language, where previously placeholder terms were used.

Due to the nature of lithium-ion batteries and the way EV powertrains function, the vehicles are on track to run at higher overall temperatures as the technology grows more complex, which Mandell points out will likely force technicians to consider things like cooling lines running through a damaged vehicle.

Due to the nature of lithium-ion batteries and the way EV powertrains function, the vehicles are on track to run at higher overall temperatures as the technology grows more complex, which Mandell points out will likely force technicians to consider things like cooling lines running through a damaged vehicle.

On the consumer-facing side of things, the war in Ukraine and the spike in metal prices that resulted is currently threatening the path to price parity between EVs and gas-powered vehicles.

The wave of electrification is also having a unique effect on traditional brand loyalties, according to Mandell, who found that most drivers these days have one or two automakers they trust enough to buy a gas-powered vehicle from. When it comes to EVs, drivers were more open to buying from brands they have no prior experience with.

Mandell says Canada’s burgeoning EV infrastructure is progressing well in building charging stations, which he attributes largely to the vested interest various levels of government have in achieving certain emissions targets and meeting goals that would demand an adequate charging network Near the end of his presentation, Mandell put forth the question to the repair centre owners and managers in the room of whether their business would be prepared for their repair mix to suddenly shift to 10 percent EV repairs.

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Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

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