The arrival of the electric car has not only revolutionised the way we drive, but also the way in which mechanical workshops adapt to carry out repairs.
The demand for trained personnel to maintain and restore these cars is essential.
In this context, Miguel Ángel Blázquez, R&D technician in the CASE Mobility department at Cesvimap, tells Mobility Portal España:
“People are losing that fear they had of ‘I don’t want to touch an electric vehicle, I don’t want to work with it.'”
This is because the initial lack of knowledge that existed has begun to dissipate as professionals become more familiar with the process, the way of working and the technical aspects surrounding this transport.
Cesvimap is working hard to train mechanics in the sector.
“We are very focused on providing courses, especially for workshop personnel, including painters, bodyworkers and mechanics, so that they can work safely,” explains Blázquez.
One of the biggest obstacles at the beginning was the perception of risk.
Working with electric vehicles involves managing complex high-voltage systems, among other aspects, which has led to a focus on safety.
“They must have a certain amount of knowledge to be able to operate these cars reliably,” he explains.
Not only does it require trained personnel, but also specialized equipment to handle electrical components and deal with the associated risks.
This involves the implementation of strict safety protocols and the use of insulating materials to protect workers.
What is the main problem that zero-emission cars present in the repair process?
According to the Cesvimap representative, the degradation of the batteries, although he maintains that it is an aspect that is being resolved over time.
“We are seeing that some cars that have been in circulation for several years and have reached a certain mileage are not experiencing as significant wear as anticipated,” he says.
He added: “This also helps to generate confidence in the buyer, allowing us to demystify the rumours and concerns that may discourage the purchase of an electric car.”
However, a structural problem still persists in the sector: the shortage of professionals.
“We are going through a period where there is a lack of qualified personnel in the workshops,” emphasizes the specialist, a reality that is commented on by several experts.
The main reasons are poor working conditions and salaries, which discourage young people from entering the profession.
In some cases, the rapid evolution of technology makes it difficult for training programs to adapt to current needs.
At this point, the work of Cesvimap stands out, with almost a decade of intensive work in the eMobility field.
Its mission is to contribute globally to mobility and, on a primarily technological basis, to the conception, development, experimentation and implementation of practical and innovative solutions.
Anticipating the study of new forms of transport, it has established itself as a global reference technology centre in the design, insurance, use, maintenance, repair and recycling of cars.
In terms of the market, Blázquez points out that the main challenge remains the price of zero-emission cars.
Although ranges have improved significantly and long journeys can now be made without any major problems, the cost of acquisition remains an obstacle.
“Many drivers are unaware of the advantages of using an electric vehicle on a daily basis,” he insists.
These include lower costs of use and “refueling”, which are presented as one of the advantages of this technology.
“It is essential to promote dissemination, knowledge and training,” concludes the Cesvimap representative.
