As electric cars grow in popularity, servicing them remains a crucial step in ensuring the safety and efficiency of this category of vehicle, which is becoming increasingly common in Italian cities and on Italian roads.
The overhaul of electric cars essentially follows the same principles as the overhaul of conventional vehicles, with particular attention paid to aspects relating to the electric propulsion system. It is essential to carry out servicing regularly and on time, to avoid any mechanical or electronic problems and to avoid the penalties laid down in the Highway Code.
The time taken to service an electric vehicle is generally shorter than that for an internal combustion vehicle. This is because certain checks, such as those for exhaust gases and noise, are not necessary, as electric motors operate completely silently.
How much does it cost to service an electric car?
One of the first questions that arises before an electric car is serviced is how much it will cost. Fortunately, the cost of servicing an electric vehicle is not very different from that of a conventional vehicle.
The price of an overhaul of an electric car is around EUR 55, to which must be added VAT at 22 per cent and around EUR 10 for motor vehicle registration fees, making a total of around EUR 79.
Prices may vary slightly depending on the revision centre and any additional costs in the case of maintenance or replacement of certain components. On the other hand, the amount will be lower, at around EUR 45, if the inspection is carried out directly at the offices of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
How does the overhaul for electric cars work?
The electric car overhaul follows a process similar to that for internal combustion cars. During the overhaul, several components that are crucial for the safety and efficiency of the vehicle are checked.
Particular attention is paid to the battery, which is one of the crucial elements of electric vehicles. Inspectors check its condition, verifying that there is no damage or leakage and that the charging system is working properly.
A check is also carried out on the electric propulsion system, which includes motors and inverters. The aim is to ensure that all components function correctly and that there are no defects that could impair the efficiency of the vehicle while driving.
There is also a thorough safety check on the entire electrical component. During the review, systems that protect the driver and passengers in an emergency, such as the automatic disconnection of power in the event of a fault, are examined.
Most electric cars are equipped with a regenerative braking system, which recharges the battery when the car slows down and stops. During the overhaul, inspectors check that this system works properly and is able to recover energy efficiently.
In recent years, especially with the spread of increasingly high-tech and connected cars, software updates related to car performance and cybersecurity are carried out to maintain a high level of protection against external threats.
In addition to these aspects specific to electric cars, standard checks common to all cars also take place to ensure the general safety of the vehicle. These include the status of tyres, brakes, lights and passive safety devices.
Once successfully completed, an inspection certificate is issued stating that the vehicle complies with safety and environmental regulations.
Reference regulations
The regulations governing the overhaul of an electric car are based on the provisions of the Highway Code and European directives on vehicle safety.
According to ministerial regulations established by the Ministry of Transport, the frequency of inspections for electric and hybrid vehicles is similar to those for conventionally powered vehicles.
It is stipulated that electric vehicles must undergo their first overhaul four years after registration and then every two years thereafter, confirming a two-yearly frequency for overhauls.
A number of general laws and regulations that may affect the inspection of electric cars include the ‘Provisions on the Periodic Inspection of Motor Vehicles and their Trailers’.
These regulations set minimum safety and operating standards for all vehicles, including electric vehicles.
Penalties for failure to carry out an overhaul
Driving an unreviewed electric car can result in heavy penalties. Article 80 of the Highway Code states that anyone driving any vehicle after the revision deadline is subject to an administrative fine of between 173 and 694 euros. This amount is doubled in the event of a repeat offence: in this case, the accessory sanction of a ban on driving the vehicle until the inspection has been carried out is also imposed.
Driving during the suspension period is equivalent to a penalty of up to 7,993 euros, plus 90 days of administrative immobilisation of the vehicle.
These sanctions are intended to incentivise drivers to be diligent in keeping their vehicle inspection up to date, thus helping to ensure road safety and the proper functioning of vehicles.
A number of general laws and regulations that may affect the inspection of electric cars include the ‘Provisions on the Periodic Inspection of Motor Vehicles and their Trailers’.
These regulations set minimum safety and operating standards for all vehicles, including electric vehicles.
Penalties in case
Meeting the inspection deadlines is not only a legal obligation, but also an act of responsibility towards the safety of your passengers and other road users, as well as your own. Always remember that safe driving starts with a properly inspected and maintained vehicle.