Thatcham Research has launched a new EV Blueprint designed to reduce the number of electric vehicles written off after relatively minor accidents, an issue that is increasingly affecting fleet costs and insurance premiums.
The framework sets out eight recommendations to improve how EVs are assessed, repaired and maintained, particularly when high-voltage batteries are involved. These include clearer battery damage assessment methods, accessible diagnostics, simpler battery removal processes and designs that allow components to be repaired rather than replaced.
Battery damage is a major concern across the industry. Thatcham research shows 44.6% of insurers and 41.7% of repair professionals see battery-related issues as the biggest repair challenge. Because batteries can represent up to 40% of a vehicle’s value, relatively small impacts can lead to vehicles being declared a total loss.
The blueprint calls on vehicle manufacturers, battery manufacturers, repairers, insurers and training providers to adopt the recommendations to ensure electrification remains economically viable for fleets and consumers.
FleetWise previously reported how Thatcham is also working with BYD to improve EV repairability and reduce total cost of ownership for fleet operators.
For fleets reviewing service, maintenance and repair providers, see the SMR leaders highlighted on page 80 of the FleetWise Trusted Brands Report.