New data from automotive analytics specialist, We Predict, has found that electric vehicles actually cost more to service and repair than their petrol counterparts in their early months.

The We Predict study found that EVs were 2.3 times more expensive to service than internal combustion engine cars in their first three months, however, this figure reduces to 1.6 times more expensive in the first year of ownership. The data is based on a sample size of some 19 million vehicles between the 2016 and 2021 model years.

At first the figures seem surprising, as a selling point of EVs is reduced maintenance, however look at the reasoning and it makes more sense. Electric vehicles are both newer in terms of design and in terms of technician knowledge and experience. This means the cars themselves may be subject to more teething trouble as new technology beds in, while unfamiliarity to technicians means repairs take longer. On average the survey showed that a technician may take twice as long to diagnose an electric vehicle issue when compared to a petrol vehicle. The average labour rate charged for electric vehicle repair was also 1.3 times higher.

Common EV repair issues included wiring problems and charging issues. Also issues around wheels were more prevalent as EVs are carrying heavy battery packs.

We Predict vice president Renee Stephens said that the higher costs were mainly attributable to EVs still being in their launch phase and that costs would come down over time.

The figures also point to the fact that for independent garages prepared to invest in EV technology and training now there is significant and lucrative business potential available.