Periodic Maintenance & Repair Approaches for Electric Vehicles

Abstract

Global electric vehicle sales reached a record level in 2021 despite pandemic conditions and difficulties in the supply chain. Total electric car use has exceeded 16.5 Million. Approximately 70% of this increase consists of battery-powered electric vehicles. Statements regarding the restriction/prohibition of internal combustion engine vehicles for the near future are announced by many countries; Incentives provided in this context increase the orientation towards the electric vehicle market. In Turkey, electric car sales correspond to 5.03% of total sales, according to 2021 data. The increasing use of electric cars is expected to bring about changes in maintenance & repair processes in the after-sales service line, which is one of the basic requirements for the automotive industry and has significant commercial potential. In many studies, it is stated that the maintenance & repair costs of electric cars suitable for urban use are 20-35% more economical than cars with internal combustion engines. This advantage becomes even more evident, especially for fleets. It is stated that these costs for fleets correspond to 7-12% of the total cost of ownership on a vehicle basis, depending on the vehicle type and purpose of use. In this study, periodic maintenance & repair approaches specific to electric cars will be included. It is aimed to develop a perspective on this subject, which is very new in Turkey. It is addressed to individual / corporate (public) users for maintenance & repair activities specific to electric vehicles, which are considered to be far from standards and have many uncertainties in the current situation. By mentioning the basic maintenance & repair processes and procedures based on the power system components of the vehicles, different from the internal combustion engine vehicles; It is aimed to raise awareness on the subject.