Core Viewpoint - The repair of electric vehicles has become a "high-risk profession" due to unclear "repair rights" and difficulties in maintenance, leading to legal disputes between repair technicians and car manufacturers [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Issues and Repair Rights - Several repair technicians have faced lawsuits from electric vehicle manufacturers for providing maintenance services, highlighting the tension between consumer rights and corporate control over vehicle repairs [1][2]. - The case of two technicians in Shanghai, who were sentenced for "damaging computer information systems" after unlocking battery packs, exemplifies the legal risks associated with independent repairs [1][4]. - The legal framework surrounding vehicle ownership and repair rights is under scrutiny, with consumers questioning whether they truly own their vehicles or merely have usage rights due to restrictions imposed by manufacturers [5][6]. Group 2: Repair Costs and Market Dynamics - The cost of repairing electric vehicles is often higher than anticipated, with significant expenses arising from the need to replace rather than repair components, particularly battery packs [8][9]. - Data indicates that the average annual maintenance cost for electric vehicles is 1,046 yuan, compared to 2,072 yuan for gasoline vehicles, but specific repairs can be disproportionately expensive [8][9]. - The high repair costs are attributed to manufacturers' control over the supply of parts and the limited competition in the aftermarket, which restricts third-party repair shops from participating effectively [3][12]. Group 3: Industry Challenges and Regulatory Environment - There is a significant talent gap in the electric vehicle after-sales service sector, with a shortage of 824,000 skilled workers [3]. - The current regulatory framework has not effectively enforced the transparency of repair information, which is crucial for enabling competition and consumer choice in the repair market [12][13]. - Recent government initiatives aim to lower repair costs and improve the supply chain for electric vehicle parts, but the implementation of these policies remains a challenge [14][15].
离谱的新能源汽车维修