Production of EVs is transforming Aluminium Demand - Why is AL13 such as specialist skill when it comes to accident repair?

Aluminium for greener vehicles

It is common knowledge that the sale of electric and hybrid vehicles is a surging market. With the new Labour Government’s pledge to reinstate the 2030 ban on the production of non-hybridised combustion vehicles, the chances are that sooner or later we will all be taking the step to own an EV or hybrid vehicle. ?What might not be instantly apparent when making this "ethical" decision, is that carmakers are turning to lighter and greener metals like aluminium in their production.

“Plug-in hybrid and full battery electric vehicles use 25-27% more aluminium than the typical internal combustion engine car today. This assumes?160kg of aluminium per vehicle?as a base line for aluminium content in internal combustion engines.”

(https://www.mining-technology.com/contractors/data//pressreleases/evs-aluminium-demand/#:~:text=Plug%2Din%20hybrid%20and%20full,content%20in%20internal%20combustion%20engines)

While the use of aluminium is not new to the industry, it has multiple benefits for these more environmentally friendly vehicles. Not only does low-carbon aluminium improve the carbon footprint in the production phase of your EV, but also when it is in use. Keeping EVs and hybrids lightweight helps ensure these cars can run for longer distances on one charge, which for obvious reasons is highly desirable. Aluminium is also completely and infinitely recyclable, with no loss of properties.

What is it about AL 13 that makes it such a specialised skill?

You’ve driven your shiny new EV off the forecourt, you couldn’t be happier and who are we to disagree? There are, however, unfortunate moments during the ownership of your vehicle where it might require repairs. From structural repairs following an accident or some minor work to ensure that your vehicle is ready to hand back at the end of a lease contract. What happens when those unfortunate incidents as described above occur? What are the implications when it comes to repairing your aluminium vehicle?

Our aluminium repair specialist Steve sheds some light on the subject.

Aluminium is by its nature very light and strong. ?It is also more expensive to use. Historically, all of your luxury vehicles would use aluminium whereas most cars are still produced in steel as it is a cheaper material. It requires specific tooling, specialist training and a good understanding of its characteristics to repair efficiently.        

Aluminium is a more complicated material to work with than steel. When Aluminium is stamped into shape to form panels and becomes stronger. This means that if a panel is bent in a collision, it becomes stronger still. Flex it too much and it cracks or breaks. It requires a temperature-controlled environment and has to be heated to a certain temperature to work when repairing a small area. However, as it is liable to crack, larger scale damage is generally recommended by manufacturers to be replaced in whole sections.        

Aluminium vehicles are riveted and bonded together. This is specialised skill and is a large investment for a body shop as the tools are very costly. It is also important to understand that Aluminium and Steel can be extremely corrosive to each other. For this reason, there are also logistical implications for a body shop. A designated area, properly equipped with separate equipment and tooling are key and expensive measures to factor in when investing in this specialised skill.        

Another complication is that aluminium alloys used can differ from one manufacturer to the next which means ongoing, brand-specific training for staff. An accredited aluminium repairer will understand these factors and variables to be able to repair to an optimum pre-accident condition, ensuring that the structure of your vehicle is not compromised in the repair process.        

Castle Coachworks are your approved accident repair centre for Tesla, Mercedes Benz, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo, Audi, Volkswagen, Volkswagen Vans, Skoda, CUPRA, SEAT and Smart cars

Whatever model you drive. Whatever metal. It is your car and your choice who repairs it. Remember to contact Castle Coachworks first.

By using our accredited repair centre will help ensure that:

• Your vehicle meets exacting technical compliance standards
• Repairs will be carried out by manufacturer-trained technicians using approved methods, Genuine Parts and products
• You can rest assured that your warranty will be intact?

We can also provide you with a complimentary accident management service and help take the strain out of the situation.

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