FAAS -Forum on Automotive Aftermarket Sustainability reposted this
Electrification of Vehicles in Norway: Transforming the Independent Aftermarket Earlier this week I had the opportunity to participate in the FAAS -Forum on Automotive Aftermarket Sustainability Sustainability Day in Stockholm where vehicle aftermarket professionals came together to discuss sustainability in our industry. Electrification of our car fleet might have slowed down, but it will happen. How does this impact the aftermarket? Anders Oxelström from MEKO shared their learnings from Norway. Norway has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, with an impressive 82% of new car sales being electric. This rapid adoption of EVs has brought about significant changes and opportunities in the independent aftermarket. My key takeaways: 🧿 Increased Wear and Tear on Non-High Voltage Parts: EVs, due to their weight and power, experience more wear on tires, suspension, and steering components. This has led to a higher demand for these parts in the aftermarket. 🧿 Brake System Challenges: Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs use regenerative braking, which reduces the use of brake pads but can lead to rust and other issues with brake discs. This has created a new niche for brake system repairs. 🧿 Battery Repairs and Innovations: The battery is a critical and expensive component of EVs. New players in the market are focusing on repairing and refurbishing batteries, addressing one of the most significant concerns for EV owners. 🧿 Technician Training and Certification: With the rise of EVs, there is a growing need for specialized training for technicians. Programs like the A+ certification ensure that workshops are equipped to handle the complexities of EV repairs. 🧿 Digital Solutions and Customer Expectations: EV owners often have different expectations, including seamless digital interactions for booking and service. The aftermarket is evolving to meet these demands with enhanced digital solutions. 🧿 Stable Demand Despite Economic Fluctuations: The need for vehicle repairs remains relatively stable, even during economic downturns. As EVs age and warranties expire, the independent aftermarket is poised to play a crucial role in maintaining these vehicles. The journey of electrification in Norway offers valuable insights for the global market. As we continue to embrace sustainable mobility, the independent aftermarket must adapt and innovate to meet the evolving needs of EV owners. Thanks for a great presentation and for sharing Anders. Many thanks also to all people involved at FAAS -Forum on Automotive Aftermarket Sustainability, CLEPA - European Association of Automotive Suppliers, FIGIEFA - Automotive Aftermarket Distributors and at MEKO that did a great job bringing us all together. #ElectricVehicles #Sustainability #Aftermarket #Innovation #Norway