visit any trucking industry website and you will see it:
The Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) is coming.
Maybe you have one or two EVs in the plans for this year or are budgeting for 2024 and beyond. You’ve considered brands and specs that will work for your routes, and you’ve either started or have plans for infrastructure upgrades and equipment for charging.
But what about service? Yes, they’ll be shiny and new, but preventive maintenance is just as important with EVs as it is with combustion engines.
While EVs are unique, they still have tires, brakes, suspension and drive shafts, electrical and HVAC systems as well as safety systems that will continue to be serviced as any other truck on the road. It’s the unique battery power that will make the service aspect a challenge. It is vital that fleet managers find a service partner that can do both – standard maintenance and service as well as the ability to competently support the EV aspect of the truck.
OEMs are working closely with everyone involved in servicing electric trucks to ensure fleets have the support they need down the road.
- High school vo-tech programs and secondary technical schools know the importance of exposing and training their students on this new technology entering the industry
- Certified OEM dealerships are evaluating needs and upgrading facilities and technical skills
- First Responders training so in the event of an accident, they know what to do
From providing full trucks or simulation units to schools to doing presentations and presentations on this emerging technology, OEMs have the upcoming needs of the industry in mind when it comes to preparing future technicians. Bergey’s has also been active in supporting tech training with the schools in our local communities to provide exposure to new and upcoming technologies so our up-and-coming technicians entering the industry can be excited and prepared for the road ahead.
Everyone understands the costs involved with emerging new technology. But being an early entrant is necessary so all involved will be ready. Bergey’s Truck Centers has taken a proactive approach to EV support for our customers. We currently have two of our high-traffic facilities fully Mack and Volvo Certified for electric vehicle service. Another 2 are working through the rigorous certification process as well. Facilities have been outfitted with specialized tooling and equipment. Technicians have been trained, tested, and certified by the OEMs as well as programs for Technician and Shop Personnel Safety Standards developed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
As always, safety is a top priority for all involved, be it the OEM, the Fleet Manager, or the servicing dealership. High-voltage systems powering heavy electric trucks require a new understanding and routine for highway and local emergency services. OEMs understand that while they are building safe and high performing trucks, when an incident with an EV occurs, they want first responders to be able to quickly and safely secure the situation and minimize risks and injuries to all involved. Mack and Volvo have developed interactive apps that provide detailed views and information on voltage, cables, battery packs and other key components.
When you’re ready to talk EV, contact our electric mobility specialists. Looking to learn more? Check out our other EV Blogs:
Our Trenton, NJ and New Castle, DE service centers are Mack and Volvo EV-certified dealerships, completing all safety, charging, tooling, electrical infrastructure and facility requirements, as well as in depth technician training. As demand for electric vehicle services grows, we will add other Bergey’s Truck Centers to this elite rank.