2035 Zero Emission Delay
What this means for you?
In this Equipment Focus article, we delve into various strategies and factors that should be on the radar of independent garages, given the government's recent decision to extend the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales until 2035. We explore the implications for workshops, and provide insights on how to enhance readiness for this transition, all while safeguarding the loyalty of your customer base.
2035 Deadline Extension for Petrol and Diesel Car Ban
On September 21, 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak addressed a press conference, revealing that he had extended the deadline for banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars to 2035, marking a five-year postponement compared to the previous schedule. This revised strategy will align the United Kingdom with several other European nations, such as Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and Sweden.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that there is a significant surge in the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK, with new DVSA vehicle registrations for EVs happening every 60 seconds. This trend is occurring even though the initial cost of an EV remains relatively high compared to traditional combustion-engine vehicles, which poses financial challenges for many families dealing with the rising cost of living. The Prime Minister emphasised that the decision to transition to EVs should be a matter of consumer choice rather than a government mandate. It is suggested that as production numbers increase, new vehicle prices will, fall over time.
What does this mean for the automotive industry?
The extension to the deadline gives us time to ensure the automotive aftermarket sector is properly prepared and equipped for the transition, this in turn will give consumers confidence in making the switch to EV sooner rather than later.
What does this mean for Independent Garages?
This news should not be seen as a justification for independent garages to halt or slow down their preparations for electric vehicles (EVs). Instead, the postponement has been implemented to allow us to make more comprehensive preparations and readiness for the upcoming transition,
Ensuring that your workshop is properly equipped and your technicians are educated and trained to work on EVs will inspire consumer confidence in making the switch sooner. Garages already prepared or in the process of upskilling for EVs stand to benefit in both the short and long term. Currently, there is a shortage of workshops offering EV servicing, along with a lack of skilled technicians qualified to work on electric vehicle systems. This positions garages offering EV services as attractive options for customers seeking aftermarket repairs and maintenance.
Loyal customer base
Consider your customer base carefully, especially long-standing loyal clients who have relied on your services for years. Garages unprepared for electric vehicles (EVs) risk losing these valuable customers who are now transitioning to plug-in vehicles. Can you afford to turn these customers away due to lack of equipment or untrained technicians?
SMMT data on new vehicle sales indicates a significant 19.8% increase in Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) sales compared to 2022, demonstrating a steady rise in BEV popularity. Therefore, it's crucial for independent garages to effectively communicate their ability to accommodate plug-in vehicles to retain their customers and avoid losing them to local competitors.
Elevating Technician Expertise - Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Training
Snap-on has partnered with the IMI to provide a Level 3 Award in Electric and Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement. This 3-day course, held at Snap-on Diagnostic Headquarters in King's Lynn, Norfolk, equips technicians with the necessary qualifications to work on electric and hybrid vehicles according to industry standards.
For a limited time, you can save £100 on the Snap-on EV and Hybrid Training course by using coupon code: GET100
Click here for course information at upcoming course dates:
Investing in Tooling and Equipment for Plug-in Vehicles: Diagnostic Tools
Independent garages must invest in advanced diagnostic tools like Snap-on® ZEUS™, TRITON™, and APOLLO™ families, along with Fast-Track® Intelligent Diagnostics software, to effectively troubleshoot and repair electric and hybrid vehicles.
This proactive investment ensures preparedness, self-sufficiency, and customer retention, preventing them from seeking other workshops for maintenance and repairs.
Garage Equipment and Tooling
Consider a 2-post lift capable of handling heavier EVs for optimal efficiency. Lifts without a base frame provide easy access to under-car systems. Invest in a dedicated battery lift for precise battery handling and positioning of heavy components.
Ensure technicians have the right PPE and workspace safety gear. Your EV and Hybrid course provider or Snap-on Franchisees can recommend the necessary equipment you’ll need.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently announced that the ban on new petrol and diesel cars' sales would be extended to 2035, aligning the UK with several European countries. For the automotive industry, this extension provides time to prepare for the EV transition, boosting consumer confidence in making the switch sooner. Independent garages should not halt their EV preparations.
The postponement allows for more comprehensive readiness. Being well-equipped and having trained technicians can attract customers, as there's currently a shortage of EV servicing options and skilled technicians. Loyal customers transitioning to EVs could be lost if garages aren't ready. New vehicle sales data in 2023, emphases the need for garages to communicate their EV capabilities with customers to remain competitive and win overall in the long-run.
Speak to your Snap-on Sales Representative for more information about preparing your workshop for electric and hybrid vehicles.
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