Officials in the automobile trade sector have issued warnings regarding the risks associated with maintaining and repairing electric vehicles in unreliable garages or by untrained workers.
Navigating Risks in Electric Vehicle Maintenance
They have advised owners of electric cars to carefully select repair facilities, emphasizing the importance of choosing accredited garages that meet specified technical standards. This advice comes amidst increasing demand, for approved garages capable of efficiently servicing electric vehicles, thereby saving time and ensuring quality service. The preference for accredited garages stems from concerns that multiple unendorsed facilities may lack the necessary expertise.
Demand for Standards and safety concerns
Consumers urge for clear guidelines and accredited garages equipped to handle the technical demands of electric vehicles.
Youssef Abdullah, a dealer, highlighted the challenge faced by electric car owners who often deal with various garages for maintenance and repairs. He stressed the need for standardized accreditation processes to reassure owners and streamline their search for reliable service providers.
Hashem Hassan echoed similar sentiments, citing the absence of clear guidelines and certified garages as a significant hurdle for electric vehicle owners. Hassan emphasized the importance of transparently advertising qualified garages through official channels to enhance accessibility and ensure technical competence in handling electric vehicles.
Saleh Hamid emphasized that the current lack of specialized garages for electric cars forces owners to rely on general maintenance workshops that may lack the necessary skills. He advocated for increased accreditation of specialized garages to mitigate potential future issues arising from inadequate servicing of electric vehicles, which have distinct technical requirements compared to conventional cars.
Mamdouh Khairallah, Executive Director of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, cautioned against the risks associated with inexperienced handling of electric vehicles, highlighting the potential dangers posed by high-voltage electrical systems. He stressed the importance of engaging certified garages equipped with trained personnel to minimize risks of electric shock and ensure safe maintenance practices.
Wissam Khalil, General Manager of Porsche Auto Center Abu Dhabi, reiterated the necessity for electric vehicle owners to seek out qualified garages specialized in electric car maintenance. Khalil underscored the potential hazards of improper handling by untrained workers, emphasizing the need for clear standards and comprehensive training programs accredited by neutral parties and endorsed by vehicle manufacturers.
Bilal Nasr, CEO of New Auto, emphasized that prioritizing qualified garages staffed with trained personnel is essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of electric vehicles. Nasr stressed the importance of maintaining the vehicle's intricate systems and avoiding risks associated with improper maintenance practices.
The warnings issued by industry officials highlight the critical need for electric vehicle owners to choose accredited garages and trained technicians for maintenance and repairs. This approach not only ensures the safety and reliability of electric vehicles but also supports the broader adoption and sustainable growth of electric mobility technologies.