DENSO examines the new era of electrification in the European aftermarket

New energy vehicles (NEV), in whatever form, all have one thing in common: they all incorporate some sort of electrical solution within their powertrains when compared with their traditional petrol or diesel powered cousins, but how does that affect the aftermarket?

DENSO AM Nexus Electrification In The Aftermarket V3

Vehicle manufacturers (VMs) universally have all had to respond to the demands of governments around the world, as they have committed their nations to reduce carbon emissions and greenhouse gases, for the sake of the environment and in an attempt to reduce rises in global temperatures. Collectively, the VMs have chosen electrification as the primary solution to these demands and so the growth in the number of NEVs coming into the market has been phenomenal.

The challenges facing all sides of this mobility development have been enormous, whether from the technology and range aspect for the manufacturers, the infrastructure requirements needed from national and local governments, or the expectations of consumers who have been familiar with hassle free refuelling and unconcerned by having to travel long distances.

All this change has a considerable impact on the original equipment (OE) component suppliers that the VMs rely on to produce these NEVs and that in turn has an obvious knock on effect on the replacement parts supply side of the aftermarket, as well as for the workshops and technicians responsible for the service and repair of them.

Therefore, traditional aftermarket service providers must adapt to the unique characteristics of NEVs, including specialised components, diagnostic tools and servicing techniques. Technicians require training and certification to effectively diagnose and repair electric drivetrains, battery systems and associated electronics. As a leading OE manufacturer and system supplier, DENSO is well placed to provide this sort of support, and is one of the reasons that it introduced its pan European League of True Mechanics initiative, which combines online training with a competitive

motivational element. While there are significant differences when it comes to their power units and drivetrain, there are still many similarities between NEVs and traditional petrol and diesel powered vehicles when it comes to their driving comfort and safety, for example.

Both of these areas are DENSO OE specialisms, which is why there should be no surprise that air conditioning (AC) products, including cabin filters, as well as wiper blades, form a large part of its NEV replacement parts offering.

Electrification also presents significant opportunities for aftermarket businesses. The increasing complexity of NEVs creates demand for specialised aftermarket services, such as battery maintenance and software updates, but also for AC service and repair.

Despite the fact that the AC systems in NEVs and those powered by a traditional combustion engine, have the same function, there are also several distinctions in how they operate, not least the compressor, which is the central component of both.

To thrive in the era of electrification, aftermarket businesses must embrace innovation and adaptability. Investing in training programmes and acquiring the necessary expertise in NEV technology is essential for staying competitive in the market. Collaborating with OE suppliers such as DENSO, can facilitate access to specialised replacement parts and provide the technical support they need to make the transition as smooth as possible.

As electrification continues to reshape the automotive industry, aftermarket businesses must remain agile and forward thinking. So, embracing NEVs presents an opportunity to position themselves as a leader in service and innovation, and by investing in training, forging strategic partnerships and adapting to evolving customer needs, they can thrive in the electric mobility era and at the same time, drive sustainable growth in the aftermarket.

Electrification is revolutionising the automotive industry, presenting both challenges and opportunities for aftermarket businesses. By understanding the unique demands of NEVs and adopting a proactive approach to innovation and collaboration where DENSO is actively paving the way, the independent service and repair sector can successfully navigate the transition to electrification.

For further details of the DENSO Aftermarket sustainability programme, please visit Sustainability Page of the DENSO-AM website.