September 2021

50 AFTERMARKET SEPTEMBER 2021 EVS AND HYBRIDS www.aftermarketonline.net orientation of the bush in the lower wishbone arms are different on the electric version, which will allow for similar comfort as the ICE version when going over bumps – again, due to weight. The same applies to the ball joint, which has a different articulation angle and mounting face to pinch bolt height. These are things that technicians need to be aware of and why Comline’s cataloguing needs to be accurate and up-to-date.” Careful adaptation Peter believes this trend is a result of EV manufacturers changing their approach: “When the Nissan Leaf was launched, it was equipped with components from models within Nissan’s existing range, such as arms, links, ball joints and track rod ends off a Nissan Juke. However, because of scenarios like the one identified here, VMs are having to change tack. “The Tesla Model 3, Audi e-tron and Volkswagen ID.3 are all examples where every part is new, so VMs are spending significant amounts of time and resources in developing new parts. As a result, technicians need to be careful and may need to adapt their fitting techniques because it’s not just ‘another vehicle’; it’s a heavier vehicle and boasts different characteristics, wear and tear.” Peter added: “Comline is set to launch 50 parts that will only fit EV vehicles, which will be available to its distributors and technicians over the course of the next six months.” To find out more, visit www.comline.uk.com/products/steering-suspension Key considerations According to Fatiha Laauich. Pan European Strategic Marketing Manager at DENSO Europe, there are five key considerations that will help a garage deal with an influx of EVs into the workshop: “At number five, is understanding the different maintenance routines required by all electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. While all vehicles have slightly different maintenance routines as recommended by the manufacturer, electrical systems should require minimal scheduled maintenance. “Next, is number four, understanding different electrical systems. Just as no two petrol or diesel cars are the same, electric vehicles also have their different nuances which will affect the way in which they are serviced and repaired. Take plug-in electric vehicles as an example. Early models typically used a slow recharge system. However, more recent models instead adopt fast or rapid recharge systems, which means there are several variations of charging cable that you need to power different vehicles. “At number three is identifying common faults. As with petrol and diesel vehicles, there are some aspects of electric vehicle design that are likely to experience faults more than others. For example, it is not uncommon for the high voltage battery within an electric vehicle to experience degradation under normal wear and tear. Knowing where and how to check the high voltage battery will be critical for successful diagnosis. “Number two is learning the right skills. It is essential that technicians complete an accredited, professional electric vehicle training course before they start working on EVs. The number of safety factors involved when working on electric vehicles is so great that nobody ought to attempt carrying out work on EVs without first having competed the appropriate level of training. “Lastly, at number one, ensure safety at all times. Most electric vehicles remain a potential hazard even when they are switched off. For workshops that offer pick-up services, it is essential that an EV’s remote operation key is removed to a suitable distance and the battery disconnected before the vehicle is lifted. This ensures it does not activate mid- journey, en-route to the repair facility.” Opportunities Looking specifically at hybrids, the growing number of these vehicles means increasing opportunities for garages to generate additional revenue. “One of these opportunities,” said Tim Keller, Export Area Manager at LIQUI MOLY, “is LIQUI MOLY’s hybrid additive. It addresses two common problems that hybrid vehicles face. Problem number one; If the hybrid is mainly driven electrically, the combustion engine is rarely used. The petrol remains in the tank for a long time, where it oxidises and ages. Its properties gradually change as a result. Aged petrol and a modern engine don’t go well together. Problem number two: If the combustion engine only runs sporadically, this causes it enormous stress – it has to undergo lots of cold Above: Nissan Leaf parts from Comline