How Electric Vehicles Are Transforming the Automotive Aftermarket?

Electric vehicles have long been positioned with the claim of “requiring less maintenance.” While this statement is technically accurate, it is incomplete. From an automotive aftermarket perspective, the real issue is not the reduction in maintenance, but the transformation of its nature.

Today, the industry is shifting from a mechanically driven service model to a new structure centered on software, data, and high-voltage systems. This transformation is redefining not only service processes, but also spare parts demand, inventory management, and even business models.

1. The Structure of Parts Is Fundamentally Changing

Compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles have approximately 30% fewer moving parts.

At first glance, this may appear to be a negative development for the aftermarket. However, demand is not disappearing—it is shifting.

Key areas of transformation include:

• Electric motors and power electronics replacing engines and transmissions

• Battery systems and thermal management replacing exhaust, oil, and filtration systems

• Electronic and software-related failures replacing mechanical faults

As a result, while the volume of traditional parts declines, the share of high-value, technically complex components is increasing.

2. The Battery Economy

Batteries have clearly become the most critical component of the electric vehicle aftermarket.

Research indicates that the battery segment is growing at a rate exceeding 25%.

However, there is a critical nuance:

• Batteries are proving to be more durable than initially expected (many retain up to 90% capacity after 100,000 km)

• Despite this, the post-warranty period represents a significant opportunity for the aftermarket

Emerging business areas include:

• Battery diagnostics and health analysis

• Refurbishment processes

• Second-life applications

• Recycling operations

These areas point to a much more complex and data-driven aftermarket structure, far beyond the traditional “replace and install” model.

3. Less Maintenance, but More Critical Interventions

It is true that electric vehicles require less maintenance. However, this does not eliminate the need for service.

The emerging reality is:

• Fewer failures → lower service frequency

• However, when failures occur → higher expertise and cost requirements

For example:

• Regenerative braking reduces brake wear

• However, increased vehicle weight leads to higher tire wear

• Battery and high-voltage systems require specialized equipment and trained personnel

This leads to a clear outcome in the aftermarket:

The number of service events may decrease, but the value per service increases.

4. A New Service Model: Software, Data, and Remote Intervention

Electric vehicles are increasingly becoming mobile software platforms.

Within this transformation, the following areas are gaining prominence in the aftermarket:

• Remote diagnostics

• Over-the-air (OTA) software updates

• Predictive maintenance

With the integration of telematics and data analytics, maintenance processes are shifting from reactive to proactive models.

This evolution is also driving the critical importance of:

• ERP systems

• PIM / MDM infrastructures

• Data quality management

These capabilities are becoming essential components of aftermarket operations.

5. New Players and Changing Competitive Dynamics

Electric vehicles are not only transforming technology but also reshaping competition.

Key structural shifts include:

• Increasing control of OEMs over service ecosystems

• Rising technical barriers for independent service providers

• Integration of charging infrastructure and energy companies into the aftermarket landscape

At the same time, the overall market is expanding rapidly, with the electric vehicle aftermarket expected to achieve double-digit growth rates in the coming years.

While this growth creates opportunities for new entrants, it also introduces significant competitive pressure for companies that fail to adapt.

The Aftermarket Is Not Shrinking—It Is Evolving

Electric vehicles are not reducing the size of the automotive aftermarket; they are transforming it into a more technical, data-driven, and expertise-intensive ecosystem.

In summary:

• The number of parts is decreasing, but their value is increasing

• Mechanical expertise is being replaced by electronics and software capabilities

• Service processes are becoming increasingly digital

• Data is becoming the core of competitive advantage

In this evolving landscape, success will depend not only on products, but on the ability to deliver accurate data, seamless integration, and advanced service models.