How Comline can help you succeed in the EV market

With over one million battery electric vehicles (BEVs) on the roads today, parts manufacturers and suppliers are developing specialised ranges to cater to this EV market. While some components are like-for-like of their internal combustion engine (ICE) cousins, there are increasingly more EV-specific parts needed, according to Comline.

Comline supplies its network of customers with an “extensive and diverse range” of own-brand products. It is confident that it offers quality, value and availability. Since its inception in 1991, Comline has grown and matured into a recognised name in branches and independent workshops.

During the last three decades, it has amassed data and built relationships with customers and manufacturers, to ensure it is able to bring product to market where demand dictates it. As the EV bandwagon continues to be jumped on, Comline believes its diligent work in developing an EV range is time well spent.

It currently offers 3,600 steering & suspension part numbers. This catalogue includes the likes of inner tie rods, tie rod ends, ball joints, track control arms, wishbones, link stabilisers, strut top mounting kits and bushings.

As part of its portfolio, Comline also has a dedicated development programme. A team of experts, specifically tasked with infiltrating important gaps in the pareto, add EV and hybrid products each month. At the time of writing, there are more than 100 specialist EV products in range.

Comline Senior Business Line Manager (Steering and Suspension and Wipers), Chris Pegg, said: “This ensures we can keep pace with the latest trends. Recently, for example, we introduced new suspension arms for popular EV models, such as the VW ID3 and Škoda Enyaq. This commitment means motor factors can always offer the latest and most relevant products to their customers.”

Quality and durability

Comline reported that every part in its steering and suspension range is designed for “durability and performance”. For instance, chloroprene dust covers are used for their rubber, to increase the service life of the part. Integrated ball joints are lubricated with Castrol Olistamoly grease, chosen for its broad range of temperature performance. Rigorous testing, such as three-axis and 900 hours of salt spray testing, is undertaken to validate the parts’ durability and to meet real-world conditions.

Manufacturing

Comline reported it has strong relationships with manufacturers, with facilities equipped with “advanced” technologies and methodologies. For instance, the forging process occurs in one of Europe’s highest capacity facilities. With over 300 CNC and turning machines for precise machining, and a cataphoresis coating process ensuring corrosion resistance, Comline is confident that every part is built to last.

Comprehensive warranty

Comline stands behind the quality of its products with a three-year or 36,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. This warranty is designed to offer you and your customers peace of mind. Furthermore, as a Premier Data Supplier, Comline believes it can be relied upon to deliver the ‘gold standard’ for its 14,000 part number portfolio, which includes, not only steering and suspension, but filtration and braking too.

The growing importance of EVs in the aftermarket

The rise of EVs presents a “unique opportunity”, according to Chris. As more consumers adopt EVs, the demand for specialised aftermarket parts will naturally grow. You can adapt to this trend and offer a comprehensive range of EV-specific parts; therefore, continued Chris, you will be best-placed to capitalise on this expanding EV market.

He added: “Our evolving steering and suspension range for electric and hybrid vehicles represents a significant progression in the aftermarket. We boast a robust product line-up, continuous development, we work with premium manufacturers, and offer a comprehensive warranty; therefore, we provide motor factors with the tools they need to succeed in the growing EV market.

“Partnering with forward-thinking suppliers, like Comline, will be crucial for staying ahead of the EV curve.”