Johannesburg, 14 October 2025 – The adoption of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) is gathering pace in South Africa, driven by the arrival of more affordable models and a growing awareness of their economic and environmental benefits. Beyond their zero-emissions promise, NEVs offer a compelling proposition for cost-conscious motorists: lower running costs, reduced fuel dependency, and a quieter, cleaner driving experience.
Yet, as the country embraces this new automotive era, both consumers and dealers must understand that NEVs—whether fully electric, plug-in hybrid, or traditional hybrid—demand a different approach to maintenance. While the mechanical simplicity of these vehicles translates into fewer routine repairs, it does not eliminate the need for regular, specialised care.
Lower Maintenance, Different Priorities
Electric vehicles (EVs) inherently require less scheduled maintenance than petrol or diesel models. Fewer moving parts mean no oil changes, spark plug replacements, or exhaust system repairs. For owners, this translates into fewer service visits, lower repair bills, and significant time savings.
However, “reduced maintenance” is not synonymous with “no maintenance.” Routine inspections remain critical to ensure safety, optimise efficiency, and protect a high-value investment.
Critical Components That Need Attention
- Battery Pack: The battery remains the most expensive component of an EV, often representing 25–40% of the vehicle’s total cost. Regular checks by qualified technicians help maintain optimal performance and prevent minor faults from escalating into costly repairs.
- Thermal Management System: Modern EVs rely on sophisticated cooling systems to regulate battery temperature, often integrated with air conditioning. Extreme heat or cold can compromise battery efficiency and longevity, making proper maintenance essential.
- Braking System: Regenerative braking reduces wear on pads and discs compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Yet the complexity of this hybrid system requires regular inspections to ensure safe, reliable operation.
The Importance of Software
Unlike ICE vehicles, NEVs depend heavily on advanced software to manage energy usage, performance, and safety. Manufacturer updates are critical: they can enhance battery life, optimise range, improve handling, and even introduce new features. Software updates have become as vital as mechanical maintenance in safeguarding vehicle performance.
Protecting Your Investment
Ashley Samuel, Director of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), emphasises:
“It is absolutely essential to adhere to manufacturer-prescribed service intervals for all cars, including electric vehicles. Skipping service appointments can impact your warranty, compromise safety, and reduce reliability and resale value. Regular, scheduled maintenance is the best way to protect your investment and ensure lasting value.”
Evolving Dealership and Technician Capabilities
As NEVs become more prevalent in South Africa, the dealer network is evolving to meet the challenge. Maintaining electric and hybrid vehicles requires specialised training, equipment, and infrastructure.
NEVs operate on high-voltage systems that demand certified technicians trained to service and repair electric powertrains and energy storage systems safely. Dealerships are investing in dedicated high-voltage service bays, insulated tools, advanced diagnostics, and strict safety protocols. These measures ensure vehicles are serviced to manufacturer standards and that customers can trust the care their NEVs receive.
Samuel adds:
“As the automotive landscape evolves, so too must our dealerships and technicians. NADA members are investing heavily in training, equipment, and infrastructure to safely and effectively support the growing NEV market. Our goal is to give South African motorists confidence in embracing electrification, knowing their vehicles are maintained by qualified experts in workshops built for the future of mobility.”
A Confident Path to Electrification
South Africa is accelerating toward an electrified future. With dealers and technicians at the forefront of this transition, NEV owners can enjoy the benefits of cleaner, more efficient mobility while having peace of mind that their vehicles are expertly maintained. NADA and its members are committed to service excellence, technical innovation, and sustaining the trust that motorists have come to expect from the local automotive industry.
