Analysis from Fleet Assist, a fleet management consultancy, has shown that electric vehicles (EVs) are around 22% less expensive to service than equivalent vehicles with an internal combustion engine (ICE).
However, the firm also suggests that the lower costs for service, maintenance and repair (SMR) of EVs is not assured in the long term, as the prices of running garages and workshops is set to increase.
EVs run using a simple drivetrain, as opposed to the many complex, interworking parts of an internal combustion engine. This means they can be both more straightforward to service and more reliable than ICE vehicles.
The analysis involved 850,000 fleet cars and vans and a network of 5,200 garages. Specifically, Fleet Assist examined the average price of a BEV service, the lower cost of which was often attributed to 33% (on average) shorter labour times and a 28% reduction in parts costs.
According to the study, pollen filters, bulbs, key fob batteries, wipers and brake fluid were the most frequently replaced EV components.
The firm warns that battery EV (BEV) servicing prices could rise as owners look to maintain profits. As drivers cover fewer miles, garages absorb the cost of fewer services, as well as both rising operational prices and staff salaries.
Vincent St Claire, managing director of Fleet Assist, said: “Fleet and retail drivers cannot take it for granted that BEV SMR prices will remain cheaper than ICE cars as, over time, costs could become more comparable.
“Garages are already starting to come to terms with how EVs will impact their servicing revenues and workshop traffic in the longer term.
“We may see more garages looking at ways to address how the paradigm shift of BEV aftersales is going to challenge their service provision and fees they charge.”
Fleet Assist suggests that garages must consider both future investment and rising overhead costs, such as training and shop upgrades. The company plans to continue its work to support all involved parties across the industry.
