As electric vehicles surge in popularity across Australia, the demand for repair shops equipped to handle the unique challenges of high-voltage systems is accelerating.
According to the Electric Vehicle Council’s latest State of EVs report, EV sales now represent 9.5 per cent of all new car purchases in Australia, marking a remarkable 150 per cent increase in market share compared to 2022. With this significant rise, the automotive industry must adapt to meet the evolving needs of this emerging market.
Fix Auto Australia has responded by launching a comprehensive accreditation program, designed to equip its network with the specialised skills needed to service both EV and hybrid vehicles. The goal is to establish a fully authorised, nationwide network of repair centres capable of handling EVs and hybrids by the end of Q1 2025. With over 30 years of experience in delivering premier collision repair services, Fix Auto Australia is committed to ensuring its franchisees are well-prepared to thrive in the fast-evolving EV market.
Scott Croaker, head of business for Fix Network Australia, expressed his excitement for the program.
“Our mission has always been to support our franchise network by providing them with the skills and infrastructure needed to stay ahead of industry changes. With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, we are proud to offer a programme that enhances both safety and expertise, while future-proofing our collision repair network,” he said.
Preparing for the Future of Automotive Repairs
With over 120 electric vehicle models now available in Australia – including a growing range of electric vans and utes – Fix Auto’s accreditation program ensures that its collision repair specialists are ready to safely and effectively work on these diverse vehicles. The training goes beyond EVs to include hybrid vehicle high-voltage systems and emerging technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells. This forward-thinking approach ensures Fix Auto is prepared for whatever the future holds, as more cutting-edge vehicles take to Australian roads.
Travis Arnold, owner of Fix Auto Morley and Fix Auto Malaga City, said this program is exactly what the industry needs.
“We need to be at the forefront of technology advances in our industry for the safety of our customers and also our staff members, due to the accreditation program by Fix Auto, we have complete confidence we have achieved just that,” he said.
Nicole Gebing, owner of Fix Auto Sunshine, is excited for the future and rising demands of EV and Hybrid Vehicles in Australia.
“The training, accreditation and equipment we have invested in is a major advantage to providing a safe working environment for our staff and reassurance to our community that we are fully equipped as a PHEV vehicle repairer,” she said.
Partnering for Excellence
According to Fix Auto Australia, the program offers industry partners the chance to collaborate with a recognised National Collision repair network, ensuring high-quality service and advanced expertise in EV and hybrid vehicle repairs.
“The Fix Auto accreditation program guarantees that repair centres within the network adhere to the highest standards of safety and quality when working with high-voltage systems. For customers, this initiative provides invaluable peace of mind, knowing that their vehicles will receive expert care from technicians who are fully trained and equipped to handle the complexities of modern EV and hybrid repairs,” Croaker said.
Lana Pagiamtzis, owner of Fix Auto Mulgrave, is also excited by the program.
“This accreditation is a big step forward for our shop. It makes sure our team is fully trained and ready to meet the increasing demand for EV and hybrid vehicle repairs. It enhances our ability to serve customers and builds our reputation as a reliable, trusted provider in the community.
Customers can trust that their vehicles are in the hands of professionals who prioritise safety, reliability, and precision,” she said.
More information about the program can be found on Fix Auto Australia’s website.