These changes will depend very much on the layout and size of your existing workshop, and expected workload, but it is usually recommended that one bay is set aside for EV work. The space needed will obviously increase over the years, but for now one will probably be enough. This could be exclusively used for EV work or just arranged as and when needed.
The work area for EVs needs to be fenced off to prevent accidental interference. In most cases this only needs to be plastic barriers and tape or chains, but it should be visible – red and white, or yellow and black colours for example. High voltage signs should also be used.
Fitting a wall-mounted charger in the workshop will be useful for checking charging operation. Having one or more charge points outside for customer use could also be a good selling point. Chargers don’t have to be over complex, to get started a simple type 2 socket that charges relatively slowly will be fine. As things develop a fast charger may be a worthwhile investment. You can of course charge for charging!
The technology of EVs is new and ever changing so access to good data will be essential. There are several very good suppliers but don’t rule out accessing what you need directly from the manufacturer. These cost several pounds for, say, an hour of access, but it is always accurate. The cost should form part of your labour rate or could be a charge added to the invoice as ‘data access’.
An excellent organization I recommend is the Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Repair Association (www.hevra.org.uk). HEVRA help independent garages with EVs. Their member garages are checked for the right qualifications, tools and equipment for servicing and repairing electric and hybrid vehicles. They will a big help for you to achieve what is needed when looking after EVs. This is because members get support from a very experienced team and other members of the network.
In the next article we will look at how to market your new EV service and repair business.