At present, new energy vehicles (NEVs), specifically electric vehicles, are booming globally and are beginning to rival fuel-powered vehicles. This trend is particularly evident in China, where the industry is developing rapidly. From the perspectives of repair and maintenance costs, let’s discuss the future development trends of these two types of vehicles to help you plan for the future.
Safety of New Energy Vehicles
Compared to fuel vehicles, NEVs have tens of times fewer parts. They have only a few dozen moving parts, whereas fuel vehicles have thousands or even tens of thousands. The core components of NEVs are the "three major systems" (motor, battery, and electronic control), which are primarily controlled by the brand. To enable more intelligent functions, NEVs are heavier, with batteries accounting for 35–40% of the vehicle's weight. This results in greater wear and tear on tires and brakes. In the event of a high-speed collision, due to the vehicle's inertia, damage can be severe. The most dangerous scenario is battery damage leading to spontaneous combustion, which can cause the entire vehicle to burn. There are two other types of combustion risks: spontaneous combustion in high-temperature weather due to no apparent reason, and fires caused by aging or daily vibrations. The most terrifying situation is an accident where people are trapped inside the vehicle during a fire.
For cheaper NEVs, the battery is the most critical component, and its performance determines the vehicle's safety.
Maintenance of Electric Vehicles
The battery is the largest maintenance cost. Everyone knows that batteries degrade over time, and replacing a battery can cost up to two-thirds of the vehicle's price. In cold weather or during uphill driving, users hesitate to use the air conditioning for extended periods because the battery's estimated range often falls short of reaching the next charging point.
During national holidays in China, severe traffic congestion on highways means you may not make it to a charging station. At highway rest areas, finding an available charging port is extremely challenging. If you live in a city and do not have a fixed parking spot, charging becomes inconvenient. Due to the high cost of accidents, insurance premiums for NEVs in China are currently two to four times higher than those for fuel vehicles.
The Most Valuable Advantages of Electric Vehicles Compared to Fuel Vehicles
Some top-tier electric vehicles now feature charging technology that can add 400 kilometers of range in just 5 minutes. Another option is battery swapping, which is no different from refueling a fuel vehicle in seconds. Of course, most people still rely on public city charging stations or home wall-mounted chargers, waiting patiently nearby as the vehicle charges.
NEVs boast stylish exteriors and interiors, with low-cost models rivaling top-tier sports cars. They offer the latest technological advancements, such as large-screen control panels, AI-assisted parking, and a lightweight, intelligent driving experience that frees up your hands.
They align with the global concept of green, low-carbon living, and most excitingly, electricity costs are far lower than fuel costs.
Repair of Electric Vehicles
Routine repairs require tools such as sockets, air impact wrenches, ratchet wrenches, and torque wrenches, which are essentially the same as those used for fuel vehicles. However, repairing NEVs requires holding a high-voltage electrician certification, as well as using insulated tools, protective gloves, and specialized safety equipment. Improper handling poses a fatal risk of electric shock.
Most NEV fault detection relies on smart diagnostic tools, thermal imaging cameras, temperature testers, and similar devices. Since the barrier to manufacturing NEVs is lower than that for fuel vehicles, many new automakers have emerged, leading to significant quality variations in the market. It is crucial to choose brands carefully.
Currently, the electric components of NEVs, especially the "three major systems," are primarily sourced from original manufacturers or authorized channels. Independent aftermarkets can hardly obtain or repair these components. Unauthorized repairs may lead to the brand refusing to honor warranties, keeping repair costs high.
New Energy Vehicles as the Future of Tech-Integrated Living
A complete transition to NEVs in the short term is unrealistic. A mixed operation model combining "fuel vehicles and NEVs" is a rational choice. NEVs are ideal for household commuting, while fuel vehicles are better suited for long-distance travel or hauling cargo. In some regions, where oil is cheaper than electricity or road conditions are unfavorable, NEVs may not be suitable. However, as technology advances, NEVs and fuel vehicles are likely to each occupy half of the market. The costs of vehicle repair, maintenance, and hardware will become more affordable, aligning with the global call for low-carbon living. If you enjoy city living, choosing an intelligent NEV is highly recommended, as it offers a futuristic, tech-driven experience—an ideal choice for the younger generation.
