SERVICES
JAX TYRES AND AUTO LAUNCHES INDUSTRY-FIRST VIDEO VEHICLE CHECKS This remote customer service is now available for NSW and VIC customers JAX Tyres and Auto is one of Australia’s top tyre retailers and mechanical service providers. In 2020, JAX launched its Video Vehicle Checks service for its Melbourne customers facing Stage Four lockdowns, enabling these drivers to address vehicle maintenance concerns in a safe way. Now, JAX is expanding this industry-first program to NSW customers that would like to take advantage of remote video vehicle checks. JAX Video Vehicle Checks are now available across Victoria and New South Wales for customers who are taking health precautions, living with or near
vulnerable members of the community, facing stayat-home restrictions, or wanting a convenient initial vehicle check. This service is only a preliminary visual diagnosis of the vehicle and is not intended to be a substitute for a complete in-store vehicle examination by a qualified mechanic. “It’s certainly been a strange and stressful time in recent memory, so we understand that many of our customers are seeking support and surety on top of the ease and convenience that our core services provide,” JAX Tyres and Auto Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, Steve Grossrieder, said. “The JAX Video Vehicle Checks combine the best capabilities of our digital platform and knowledge of our store teams, so all of our customers regardless of their circumstances can get the expert help they need.” JAX says that New South Wales and Victorian-based drivers can book and access JAX Video Vehicle checks via the webchat to SMS functionality on JAX Tyres and Auto’s website.
Customers will then be connected with a qualified JAX Tyres and Auto technician who will conduct remote visual inspections and provide one-on-one expert mechanical and tyre advice and information. “We are proud of the warm response and interest that the JAX Video Vehicle Checks received from Victorian customers in lockdown last year and from industry peers both in Australia and abroad,” Steve said. “Giving our customers peace of mind about vehicle maintenance, especially in the current environment, drives every business decision we make. “We remain committed to delivering high-quality, innovative and flexible retail services through new technologies and first-rate industry expertise within our franchise network.” To book a JAX Video Vehicle Check, visit www.jax.com.au
SERVICING EV BATTERIES Electric vehicle battery types
There are typically two batteries in an electric vehicle – a lead acid 12V accessory battery and a lithium-ion high voltage traction battery. While you are no doubt familiar with 12V batteries, isolating or handling the traction battery of an electric vehicle can be dangerous to those not familiar with these high voltage systems that are generally above 48V. When handling either type of battery for workshop servicing or wrecking, care should be taken to ensure the ignition is switched off, bearing in mind you won’t hear an engine running. Prior to attempting to isolate an EV traction battery, you should always review the manufacturer instructions and ensure you have appropriate high voltage-safe PPE, including fire resistant clothing and gloves to Australian Standards.
To avoid short-circuiting, insulated tools should also be used to handle the traction battery, and a multimeter is a vital tool to check voltages. One of the main risks when working with EVs is thermal runaway, particularly in vehicles that have been involved in an accident where the traction battery casing has been breached. Moving an EV around a workshop should be done with extra care, and it’s important to note that EVs should never be hoisted on a scissor lift that may impact or damage the traction battery. Ensuring you have the right safety measures in place is essential for anyone servicing EVs, so EVUp has helped develop a simple one-hour online course for mechanics through the EV Alliance at www.evalliancetraining.thinkific.com
Charging an electric vehicle in your workshop Providing a reliable charge to your customers will soon be an expectation, rather than a value add. Following the servicing of an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid, a 7kW single phase or 22kW three phase portable charging unit that can be easily maneuvered around your workshop will be a valuable tool for your team. A portable unit removes the need to move EVs in and out of a fixed parking space and also avoids
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stretched charging cords creating a trip hazard or a fire risk. The Melbourne-made AURIGA unit available through our website has been designed as a durable portable charger for exactly this purpose, and starts at $2900 per unit. EVUp can also help with public charging infrastructure that will attract EV drivers to your location and future proof your business as the transition to electric transport accelerates.
Data driven insights Want to get a handle on the future of passenger and commercial transport? Download EVUp’s free Australian EV Ownership pack for the latest electric vehicle registrations and heatmaps. Contact Emma Sutcliffe for information about workshop EV charging and training for your team by emailing emma@evup.com.au or calling 0409 040 499.
