September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021 AFTERMARKET 49 Above: Suspension parts for Comline www.aftermarketonline.net continuously evolving technology of these vehicles.” Martin added: “These vehicles include a host of additional onboard electrical systems that are not as likely to trigger a warning light the way malfunction lights are triggered in a traditional vehicle. This means there is no way to ensure the vehicle’s electrical systems are working and reset properly without performing a diagnostic scan of all the systems.” Preparation On how can a garage get itself prepared for EVs and hybrids, Adam White, Workshop Solutions Director at LKQ Euro Car Parts had this to say: “There is a perception that becoming EV and hybrid-ready is a big financial commitment, but actually a £2,000 one-off cost can equip one technician with all necessary training, tools and equipment. With an average EV or hybrid service typically costing £300, garages can quickly generate a significant return on investment. “Before they can start to sell specialist services for EVs and hybrids, garages will need to invest in the right safety equipment. Our specialist safety pack includes essentials like high voltage floor matting, an insulated rescue pole and safety clamp, safety signage, an insulated face shield and gloves, extra-long hex keys and a 22-piece insulated toolkit.” On servicing specifics, Adam observed: “EVs and hybrids feature sophisticated systems designed to enhance performance, efficiency, safety, and the overall experience at the wheel. These systems require regular software updates, for which connectivity is key. Hybrids are arguably more complex than EVs, because they feature a combustion engine alongside a high voltage system. EVs on the other hand should require relatively little maintenance, because their engines contain far fewer moving parts. “The courses we offer through our AutoEducation Academy cover both hybrids and EVs, meaning technicians can develop their skills to deal with the hybrids that are already present in the independent aftermarket, and the pure electric vehicles that are on the way. Our 2021 course schedule includes more hybrid and EV course dates than ever before, and will help to bring more than 550 new hybrid-trained technicians up to level three standard, while upskilling another 670 to level four. “When it comes to working with battery-powered vehicles, health and safety is as important to consider as technical expertise. That’s why it forms a core component of all our AutoEducation training programmes. To tackle this, the IMI has developed a Professional Standard for Electric Vehicles, which helps technicians understand the minimum requirements for keeping safe when servicing them.” He added: “Garage owners have a legal obligation to ensure that their employees are properly-trained and protected when working on or around high-voltage systems, and they can certify their competence with the IMI TechSafe banner – something we actively promote to our customers.” Ultimate future James Boon of Hofmann Megaplan was keen to stress the importance for garages of developing an EV service plan now: “Electric vehicles represent the ultimate future of our industry and, whilst the official date for banning the sale of traditionally-powered vehicles may seem a long way off, you should really be in the market now. Last year, when you could argue the world stood still, sales of electric vehicles grew globally by 43% and factors such as improved technology, emissions regulations, environmental pressure, choice and cost are all pushing the move towards EVs with increasing momentum. At Hofmann Megaplan, electric vehicles are fully on our radar in terms of equipping the workshop of the future, we already offer a number of EV specific products and the range will continue to grow.” James added: “The Hofmann range currently includes an especially developed 2-Post EV lift, which employs mounting from underneath the wheels as opposed to pick- up points under the vehicle, leaving the underside free for battery access and removal. There are also two EV battery lifting options, as well as single phase and three phase EV charging option. Lastly, there is also a complete range of tools and safety products for Hybrid and EVs, developed in conjunction with car manufacturers and importers.” For more information, go to: www.hofmann- megaplan.co.uk/products/electric-vehicles Compensate Comline Auto Parts’ Group Senior Business Line/Product Manager Peter Wallace observed that fitting steering and suspension components on EVs may not be straightforward. While developing Comline’s growing steering and suspension catalogue, Peter noticed scenarios where parts for an EV are different to their internal combustion engine equivalent. For example, on an electric Peugeot 208 and Vauxhall Corsa-F, the original anti-roll bar link is lighter than the one fitted to models with an ICE. Peter explained: “My gut instinct is that these parts have been made lighter to compensate for the additional battery weight. The issue, though, is that these components will look identical to the original specification but will comprise of subtle rotational or dimensional differences; therefore, if fitted, those components will cause some issues when the vehicle is being driven, such as veering left-to-right (yaw ratio) and vice-versa. “What’s more, sticking with the same vehicle layout, the