How does the warranty on electric commercial vehicles work?
The warranty on electric commercial vehicles differs significantly from that on regular commercial vehicles, mainly due to the extended battery warranty of 8 years or 160,000 kilometres. Whereas traditional commercial vehicles mainly have engine warranty, with electric vehicles you get specific protection against battery capacity loss. Most manufacturers guarantee that your battery will retain at least 70% of its original capacity during the warranty period.
What is the difference between warranty on electric and regular commercial vehicles?
Electric commercial vehicles have a extensive battery warranty of usually 8 years or 160,000 kilometres, while ordinary commercial vehicles get a standard 2-3 years general warranty. The main difference is in the specific protection against battery capacity loss, as opposed to the traditional engine warranty.
In ordinary commercial vehicles, the warranty focuses on the engine, transmission and other mechanical parts. You get coverage for manufacturing defects and premature wear and tear of key components. The warranty period is usually shorter because internal combustion engines are a proven technology with a predictable lifespan.
Electric commercial vehicles, on the other hand, have specific battery warranty conditions. Manufacturers guarantee that your battery will retain at least 70% of its original capacity during the warranty period. This means you are entitled to replacement or repair if your battery deteriorates faster.
The charging infrastructure is also often covered by the warranty for electric vehicles. Think of the built-in charger, charging port and associated software. These components are usually given the same warranty period as the battery itself.
How long is the manufacturer's warranty on the battery of electric commercial vehicles?
The standard battery guarantee for electric commercial vehicles is 8 years or 160,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. Different brands apply similar terms, but the specific conditions may vary from one manufacturer to another.
Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and Ford all offer an 8-year warranty on the batteries of their electric commercial vehicles. Toyota often applies slightly different terms, with 8 years or 100,000 kilometres for their hybrid systems. The warranty specifically applies to maintaining at least 70% battery capacity.
If your battery drops below the 70% capacity within the warranty period, you are entitled to a free replacement or repair. This is measured through the vehicle's on-board computer and diagnostic systems. Some manufacturers even offer proactive monitoring to detect capacity loss early.
Please note that extreme conditions may affect the warranty. Very high or low temperatures, frequent fast charging or long-term storage with a depleted battery can affect the warranty terms. Always check your brand's specific conditions for exact details.
Which parts of electric commercial vehicles are not covered by the warranty?
Wear parts such as tyres, brake pads, windscreen wipers and filters are not covered by the warranty of electric commercial vehicles. Damage due to misuse, accidents or modifications is also excluded from warranty coverage.
Specific to electric vehicles, charging cables are often excluded from the warranty. These cables wear out through regular use and are considered consumables. The same applies to the 12V battery, which has a shorter lifespan than the main battery.
Damage to the battery due to misuse is also excluded from the warranty. This includes:
- Long-term storage with a fully depleted battery
- Use of non-approved charging equipment
- Physical damage due to accidents or impact
- Modifications to the battery system
Cosmetic damage, such as scratches, dents or discolouration, is never covered by the warranty, unless they are manufacturing defects visible immediately after delivery. Software updates are usually free, but damage caused by your own modifications to the software is not covered.
Maintenance, such as changing air conditioning filters, coolant and brake fluid, remains your own responsibility. Although electric vehicles require less maintenance, you must perform these basic servicing to keep the warranty.
What happens if your electric utility vehicle breaks down within the warranty period?
In case of a defect within the warranty period, report it immediately to your dealer or authorised repairer. You will usually receive a replacement vehicle if the repair takes longer than one working day. The complete repair will be carried out free of charge according to the warranty conditions.
The warranty process starts with a diagnosis at an authorised garage. They determine whether the defect is covered by the warranty and estimate the repair time. Electric commercial vehicles require specialised knowledge, so not every garage can carry out all repairs.
For battery problems, diagnosis may take longer as extensive tests are required. The garage checks battery capacity, charging performance and any fault codes. If capacity loss is detected, it is compared with the warranty conditions.
Replacement vehicles are usually arranged for business customers within 48 hours. This may be a similar electric commercial vehicle, but sometimes you will temporarily get a fuel vehicle as an alternative. The cost of this is covered by the warranty.
Complex repairs to batteries or electric motors can take 1-2 weeks due to parts availability. Simple defects to software or smaller components are often fixed within a few days. Your dealer will keep you informed of progress.
How Van den Hurk helps with electric commercial vehicles
We guide you through the complete warranty process from electric commercial vehicles and make sure you take full advantage of all warranty benefits. With our experience of more than 60 years in the commercial vehicle industry, we understand exactly what to look out for in warranty terms.
Our support for electric commercial vehicles includes:
- Comprehensive explanation of warranty conditions upon purchase
- Direct assistance with warranty claims and contact with manufacturers
- Advice on optimal battery use for longer life
- Rapid arrangement of replacement vehicles during repairs
- Personal assistance with complex warranty issues
We work with authorised repairers who specialise in electric vehicles. This means faster diagnoses, shorter repair times and proper handling of warranty claims. As a result, our customers experience less worry and less downtime in case of any problems.
Want to know more about the warranty options for electric commercial vehicles? Contact us for personal advice on the best choice for your business. We will be happy to help you with any questions about warranty, leasing options and the switch to electric driving.
