Steering & Suspension 32 www.aftermarketonline.net APRIL 2026 Meeting the evolving demand for reliable components Aftermarket parts specialist MEYLE has developed shock absorber sets for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, designed specifically to meet the unique demands EVs place on their suspension components. The rapid growth of electric vehicles is reshaping the independent automotive aftermarket, with suspension systems increasingly in focus. As EVs become more common, workshops face new service requirements and a rising need for dependable replacement parts. Shock absorbers, crucial for driving stability, comfort, and the longevity of other suspension components, are receiving more attention than ever. Unique challenges Electric vehicles place specific demands on suspension systems. The additional weight of battery packs affects load distribution and steering dynamics, while the quiet operation of EVs makes ride comfort and vibrations more noticeable to drivers. These factors raise expectations for durable and precisely engineered damping solutions. Suspension technology is also evolving rapidly. Fixed-property dampers are giving way to adaptive and active systems, requiring workshops to adopt more advanced diagnostic tools and technical expertise. This makes access to high-quality spare parts and targeted training increasingly important. Independent workshops are seeing growing demand as early-generation EVs reach higher mileages. Many firstgeneration Tesla Model 3 vehicles, for example, have surpassed 100,000-120,000 miles, increasing the need to replace suspension components. While feedback from drivers indicates that some original setups can feel firm or uncomfortable, further highlighting the value of highquality aftermarket solutions. Practical solutions Responding to these developments, MEYLE has developed shock absorber sets for the Tesla Model 3 and, available this spring, for the Model Y. Designed with workshops in mind, the sets simplify installation, reduce labour time, and meet the higher durability requirements of electric vehicles, reflecting both market needs and driver expectations. As electric mobility advances, suspension systems are becoming more complex, incorporating sensors and adaptive components. Servicing these systems is emerging as a profitable and strategically important area within the independent aftermarket. Workshops that invest in skills, tools, and high-quality spare parts today are better positioned to meet tomorrow’s service demand and maintain competitiveness as the EV fleet continues to grow. www.meyle.com
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