EV & Hybrid
Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly becoming part of everyday life for both private drivers and fleets. But when an EV is involved in a crash, you can’t simply send it to any panel shop or mechanical workshop. High-voltage systems, sensitive battery packs, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and lightweight structural materials all require specialist collision repair capability.
Whether you’re an EV owner, fleet operator, or insurer, choosing an EV-ready collision repair centre is critical to protecting the safety, performance, and warranty of the vehicle after an accident. In this guide, we’ll explore what sets specialist EV collision repair centres apart and what you should look for when selecting a repairer.
While EVs can be mechanically simpler than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, they are significantly more complex from a safety and structural repair perspective. High-voltage batteries, power electronics, sensors and cameras, and lightweight body structures all behave differently in a collision compared to conventional vehicles.
After a crash, EVs require:
Correct high-voltage isolation procedures before work begins
Careful inspection of the battery and high-voltage components for damage
Structural repairs in line with the manufacturer’s repair methods
ADAS and safety system recalibration before returning the vehicle to the road
Choosing a collision repairer that understands and follows these requirements is essential. This is where EV-Ready collision repair centres, such as AMA Collision’s EV Ready Repair Centre programme, play a vital role.
A common misconception is that repairing an EV after a crash is just like repairing any other car with some extra electrical checks. In reality, EV collision repair involves a number of specialised safety and technical steps that general panel shops may not be equipped to perform safely.
Before any work begins, the high-voltage system must be safely isolated according to manufacturer procedures. This often involves:
De-energising the high-voltage system
Lock-out/tag-out processes to prevent accidental re-energising
Verifying zero potential on high-voltage circuits
These steps protect technicians from electric shock and reduce the risk of thermal events during repair. EV Ready repair centres have trained staff and documented procedures to manage this process.
In a collision, the high-voltage battery pack can be damaged externally or internally. Even if there is no visible damage, internal cell damage can create a risk of delayed thermal runaway.
Specialist EV collision repair centres are trained to:
Inspect battery housings, mountings and cooling systems
Identify signs of impact or deformation around battery zones.
Follow OEM guidelines for when a battery must be removed, quarantined or replaced.
Store damaged or suspect batteries in a safe, monitored area.
This level of care helps protect both workshop staff and vehicle occupants long after repairs are completed.
Many EVs use aluminium, high-strength steels and composite materials to reduce weight and improve range. These materials behave differently under impact and must be repaired using specific techniques, tools and equipment.
EV-ready collision repair centres invest in:
Dedicated aluminium bays and tooling
Specialist welding and bonding equipment
OEM-approved repair methods and data
Trained technicians experienced in structural repair for EV platforms.
Following the correct structural repair process is vital for crash performance, occupant safety and maintaining the manufacturer’s warranty.
Modern EVs rely heavily on ADAS and safety systems such as:
Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
Lane keeping and lane departure warning
Adaptive cruise control
Parking sensors and 360-degree cameras
After a collision, even minor misalignment can affect how these systems perform. EV-ready repair centres have the equipment and training to:
Recalibrate cameras, radar and lidar sensors
Perform wheel alignment in line with OEM specifications.
Complete post-repair scans and dynamic calibrations where required
This ensures safety systems work as intended when the vehicle returns to the road.
When you’re selecting an EV collision repairer, focus on collision and safety capability rather than routine servicing or maintenance offerings. Look for the following core elements.
Ask whether the repairer:
Is part of an EV-specific programme (such as AMA Collision’s EV Ready Repair Centre network)
Has technicians trained in EV high-voltage safety and OEM repair methods
Regularly updates training as new EV models and technologies are released.
This level of training helps ensure repairs are safe, compliant and aligned with manufacturer expectations.
EV collision repair requires appropriate workshop layouts and equipment. Indicators of an EV-ready facility include:
Dedicated EV working areas with restricted access
Insulated tools and PPE for high-voltage work
Clearly documented safety and isolation procedures
Appropriate storage for damaged or isolated batteries
These features demonstrate a commitment to safe EV repair.
Specialist EV repair centres invest in:
OEM repair information and approved methods
Manufacturer-approved diagnostic tools and scan equipment
ADAS calibration systems and specialist alignment equipment
This ensures the repair process follows the same technical guidance used by the vehicle manufacturer.
For many EV owners and fleet operators, repairs are managed through an insurer or fleet provider. A repairer with strong insurer and fleet relationships:
Understands claim processes and timelines
Can help streamline approvals and reduce downtime
Has proven their capability to major insurers and commercial clients
AMA Collision, for example, works closely with insurers and fleet operators across Australia to deliver consistent, high-quality collision repairs, including for EVs.
When comparing collision repairers, prioritise those who can demonstrate:
EV-specific technical training and qualifications
Participation in recognised OEM or EV-ready programmes
A proven track record in repairing EV models similar to yours
This expertise is critical to repairing complex high-voltage and structural systems safely.
A repairer’s reputation can offer valuable insight into the quality of their work. Consider:
Customer reviews and testimonials from EV owners and fleet managers
Insurer recommendations and approved repairer status
Consistent feedback on communication, repair quality and turnaround times
A collision repairer trusted by insurers and EV drivers is more likely to deliver a safe, reliable result.
EV collision repair can involve more steps than traditional repairs. Look for a repairer who:
Clearly explains the repair process, including high-voltage isolation, structural repair and ADAS calibration
Provides itemised repair plans and timelines
Keeps you and your insurer updated throughout the repair
Transparent communication helps you understand what is happening with your vehicle and why certain safety steps are necessary.
While every accident is different, there are some common EV collision scenarios where EV-ready expertise is especially important.
Front-end impacts often affect:
Crash structures and crumple zones
Sensors and cameras used for ADAS
Cooling systems for the battery and power electronics
Repairs must ensure crash performance is restored and all ADAS systems are correctly recalibrated.
Impacts near or underneath the battery pack can be serious, even if damage is not immediately visible. EV-ready centres understand OEM criteria for:
When a battery must be removed, inspected, or replaced
How to safely support and lift EVs without damaging the battery
How to inspect high-voltage cabling, shielding and structural members around the pack
Rear-end collisions can affect:
Charging ports and associated wiring
Structural integrity of rear crash members
Sensors and camera systems used for reversing and parking
An EV specialist will check both structural and electrical systems before returning the vehicle.
To ensure you’re choosing the right EV collision repairer, consider asking:
Do you have EV-specific training and qualifications? Confirm that technicians are trained in high-voltage safety, OEM repair methods and EV-specific diagnostics.
Are you part of an EV Ready or OEM-approved repair programme? Programmes like AMA Collision’s EV Ready Repair Centre network demonstrate a commitment to meeting higher EV repair standards.
How do you handle high-voltage isolation and battery safety? The repairer should be able to explain their isolation, verification and storage procedures clearly.
Do you perform ADAS calibration in-house? Ensure they have the equipment and capability to recalibrate safety systems after structural or alignment work.
What kind of warranty do you offer on collision repairs? A clear repair warranty provides peace of mind that workmanship and parts are supported.
Can you share examples or testimonials from EV repair customers or fleets? Real-world EV repair experience is a strong indicator of capability.
Investing in an EV is a long-term decision centred on safety, efficiency and sustainability. After a collision, the repairer you choose plays a major role in protecting:
Safety – ensuring the high-voltage system, structure and safety systems perform as the manufacturer intended.
Warranty – following OEM repair methods and using appropriate parts to help protect manufacturer warranties.
Value – high-quality, structurally sound repairs help maintain long-term vehicle value and performance.
By focusing on EV-specific capability, OEM alignment and proven safety processes, you can make an informed decision that protects both drivers and assets.
When your EV or electric fleet vehicle is involved in an accident, you need more than just a standard panel shop — you need an EV-ready collision repair centre you can trust.
AMA Collision’s EV Ready Repair Centres are equipped with:
Trained technicians in high-voltage safety and OEM repair methods
Dedicated EV processes for isolation, inspection and battery handling
ADAS calibration and diagnostic capabilities
Strong partnerships with major insurers and fleet operators across Australia
If your electric vehicle requires expert collision repairs, or you’re an insurer or fleet operator looking for a trusted EV collision repair partner, talk to the team at AMA Collision.
Find an AMA Collision location near you or learn more about lodging an EV collision repair insurance claim with us today.