According to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy, EVs cost 40 per cent less on average to maintain than internal combustion vehicles. Below are some of the changes you should consider making to the vehicle walkaround and maintenance lists you provide to your drivers to reflect the differences between the two vehicle types.
Notes under the ICE column represent items you and your drivers are likely already tracking, while the EV column notes the differences they’re likely to encounter with electric vehicles.
Daily vehicle walkaround
Item | ICE | EV |
Brakes | Check that pedal works correctly without excess travel | Check that brake pedal works correctly Check that regenerative braking setting is appropriate for the vehicle type and current weather conditions |
Charging infrastructure | N/A | Check that charging station, cable and vehicle port are undamaged and in good condition |
Preconditioning | N/A | Check that vehicle has preconditioned correctly and that process is complete before unplugging |
Fuel/charge | Check that fuel level is sufficient | Check that vehicle has charged correctly and range is sufficient Check that vehicle is unplugged |
Vehicle maintenance
The figures given below are averages. The recommendations given by your vehicle’s manufacturer may vary.
Item | ICE | EV |
Oil change | Every 12,000 to 16,000 km | Not required |
Tires | Rotate every 8,000 to 12,000 km; Wheel alignment annually; Change when tread depth is 2/32” (or 4/32” in winter) | Rotate, align, and change at same intervals, or follow manufacturer recommendation |
Brakes | Inspect every six months; service every 30,000 to 80,000 km | Inspect annually; service intervals vary but are generally half as frequent as in ICEs |
Brake fluid | Every two to three years | Every two to three years |
Engine air filter | Every two years | Not required |
Cabin air filter | Annually | Every two years |
12V battery | Twice annually | Twice annually (if present) |
Coolant | Check twice annually; change every 50,000 km | May not be required unless battery comes with coolant system, in which case inspect at same intervals |
Transmission fluid | Top up or replace every 100,000 to 160,000 km | May not be required |
Spark plugs | Change every 130,000 to 160,000 km | Not required |
Timing belt | Change every 100,000 km when equipped | Not required |
Now test your knowledge to complete the lesson on including drivers in your fleet electrification.
Reproduction of any or all of this material is strictly prohibited without permission. Please contact fleets@electricautonomy.ca for inquiries. Copyright © 2024 – Electric Autonomy Canada – ArcAscent Inc. – All Rights Reserved
Want to learn more? Sign up or log in so you can track your progress, earn a course certificate and receive exclusive invitations to our live learning sessions.