The Rise of Electric Vehicles: What It Means for Car Body Repairs
With electric vehicle sales growing rapidly in the UK - now accounting for over one in five new car registrations - more drivers than ever are making the switch to electric. But when it comes to body repairs, many EV owners are left wondering: is repairing an electric car different from a traditional petrol or diesel vehicle? Here's everything you need to know about EV body repairs and what to look for when choosing a repair specialist.
Specialised Training is Essential
Electric vehicles operate on high-voltage battery systems, typically ranging from 400 to 800 volts - enough to cause serious injury if mishandled. This means working on EVs requires specific safety training that goes far beyond traditional vehicle repair knowledge. Technicians must understand how to safely isolate electrical systems, identify high-voltage components, and follow strict safety protocols before any work begins.
At Dent Alert, our technicians are fully IMI Hybrid/Electric Vehicle qualified, meaning they've completed industry-recognised training in EV safety and repair procedures. This certification ensures your vehicle is in safe hands, whether you're driving a Tesla, BMW i-Series, Volkswagen ID, or any other electric model.
The Good News: Most Body Repairs Are Similar
Here's what many EV owners don't realise - for the majority of cosmetic repairs, the process is virtually identical to conventional vehicles. Paintless dent removal, scratch repair, bumper scuffs, and respraying all follow the same techniques because the body panels and paint finishes are made from the same materials as traditional cars.
Whether your EV has picked up a car park ding, stone chips from motorway driving, or a scrape from a tight parking space, these repairs don't involve the electrical systems at all. A skilled technician can restore your paintwork to pristine condition using exactly the same methods they'd use on any other vehicle.
Battery and High-Voltage Safety Considerations
Where EV repairs differ is when work needs to be carried out near high-voltage components or during more extensive collision repairs. In these situations, the battery system may need to be safely isolated before any work begins. This process, known as "making the vehicle safe," requires specialist diagnostic equipment and strict adherence to manufacturer procedures.
The battery pack in most EVs is located beneath the floor of the vehicle, protected by a reinforced casing. While this positioning keeps it safe during normal driving and minor incidents, any repair work involving the underside of the vehicle or structural components requires extra caution and expertise.
Why Choosing an EV-Qualified Repair Shop Matters
Not all body repair shops are equipped to handle electric vehicles safely. Choosing an unqualified repairer could put technicians at risk and potentially void your vehicle's warranty. When selecting a body shop for your EV, always check that they hold recognised EV qualifications such as IMI certification, have experience working on your specific vehicle make and model, use manufacturer-approved repair methods, and carry appropriate insurance for high-voltage vehicle work.
Mobile Repairs for Electric Vehicles
One advantage of many cosmetic repairs is that they can be carried out at your home or workplace - and this applies to electric vehicles too. Minor dents, scratches, and scuffs that don't require high-voltage isolation can be repaired on-site, saving you the inconvenience of dropping your car at a body shop.
Trust the Experts with Your EV
Your electric vehicle represents a significant investment in both cost and environmental impact. When it needs body repairs, you deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing it's being handled by qualified professionals who understand the unique requirements of EV repair.
Dent Alert is fully equipped and certified to handle all electric and hybrid vehicle body repairs safely and professionally. From minor dents to more extensive paintwork restoration, we deliver showroom-quality results while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Got a dent, scratch, or scuff on your electric vehicle? Contact Dent Alert today for a free, no-obligation quote!