Fixico's EV Digital Platform Manages After Sales Service
As EV adoption grows in popularity, fleet and claims managers encounter new challenges related to the advanced, susceptible technology and materials used in these vehicles.
EVs' diverse designs, origins and operations add to the complexity, particularly when these vehicles are involved in collisions.
Derk Roodhuyzen, Fixico's CEO and co-founder, highlights the issue:
"EV repair costs are 30-35% higher than repairs for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
"Additionally, insurance providers often increase premiums for EVs or, in some cases, do not offer insurance at all."
Digital repair platforms
Digital repair platforms offer a promising solution for managing after-sales services.
According to Derk: "These platforms act as connected ecosystems that help identify which service providers are qualified for the job at hand."
By connecting stakeholders digitally, these ecosystems enhance collaboration and streamline service processes.
By design, Fixico's digital repair management platform facilitates efficient, high-quality repairs for EVs. Derk notes:
"We are currently connected to over 400 repairers across the UK, with our network growing each week.
"Our network is diverse in expertise and after-sales knowledge, especially in EV accreditations, including certified repairers of IMI Level 3 & 4."
Overcoming parts availability issues
The platform helps customers deal with the limited availability of parts for new market entrants by facilitating effective communication between repair shops and parts suppliers.
It ensures that necessary parts are available when needed, reducing downtime and improving repair efficiency.
"Recognising the technical complexities associated with EVs, Fixico ensures that all repair shops in its network undergo a thorough onboarding process," Derk explains.
The process includes verifying the level of certifications and training that repair shops have to ensure they are well-equipped to handle EV repairs.
Smart matchmaking for repairs
Fixico uses an intelligent matchmaking system that leverages transactional data from its marketplace to match each repair with the most suitable repairer.
The criteria considered include certifications, technical expertise, capacity, repair cycle time, service diversity, quality of past work, customer reviews and compatibility with Fixico's digital tools.
The system ensures that each unique vehicle damage is matched with the best repair solution, whether it's an EV repair or a light commercial vehicle (LCV) repair.
Supporting OEMs with customisable after-sales ecosystems
Fixico provides new original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) with the tech infrastructure they need to run their customisable after-sales ecosystems.
"We help OEMs create their repair networks using Fixico's existing repairers, who specialise in specific EV brands and practices.
"We assist with training and certification, ensuring a scalable and country-specific network," Derk adds.
Integration for seamless service
Fixico's platform integrates stakeholders—including after-sales departments, customers, and repair shops—into a seamless digital ecosystem in real-time.
"This integration ensures that all parties are always up to date on repair status, capacity, costs, and parts availability, improving transparency and efficiency in the repair process and ensuring consistent service quality," says Derk.
Specialised repair methods
The traditional one-size-fits-all approach to vehicle repair does not work for EVs.
"EVs require specialised repair methods and tools, which can vary by brand and type of repair," Derk explains.
Fixico's approach is all about finding the right match between demand and supply, enabling customers to manage and optimise repair handling, vehicle off-road time and direct repair costs.
This Total Cost of Repairs (TCR) approach allows customers to effectively manage EV repairs, even as direct repair prices continue to rise.
Partner and Funder Support
Fixico's growth has been supported by various partners and investors who share its vision.
"Our journey has been bolstered by world-class investors like Autotech Ventures, Finch Capital and Orange Growth Capital, who have provided the financial backing and strategic guidance necessary for our expansion and innovation," notes Derk.
Local supply partner LKQ plays a crucial role, with its extensive network of parts suppliers ensuring high-quality and reliable services across Fixico's network.
Collaborations with crucial UK fleet associations such as the National Body Repair Association (NBRA) and the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) are essential in driving industry standards and ensuring that Fixico remains at the forefront of automotive repair solutions.
"Together, these partners and funders help create a smarter, connected and more efficient ecosystem for after-sales servicing, ultimately benefiting our customers and the industry at large," concludes Derk.
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