of those repairs will be done with OEM parts. Not to mention one of the most critical and high-priced replacement parts of an EV whose lifecycle may not keep pace with the durable aluminum bodies and frames frequently used in EV design could be the battery. SECURE FIXED OPS BUSINESS WITH A FOCUS ON CUSTOMER SERVICE During this time, the dealership needs to focus on securing the future business of that consumer by focusing on customer service, part availability, and ease of service. Dealers will need to ensure they have EV parts in stock and team members within Fixed Ops are properly trained in what the parts are, how they function, and how to service the vehicles. Dealers with body shops can ensure that their shops are certified in all aspects of EV and aluminum collision repair for opportunities to capture business from all brands of EVs. As more independent shops begin to work on EVs, dealerships will need to have that consumer loyalty established to continue to drive future Fixed Ops AND Variable Ops revenue. They may also consider developing relationships with shops specializing in EV repair in order to market genuine parts to the independent shops and their customers. RAMP UP PARTS SALES FOR ICE VEHICLES Ramping up parts sales for the remaining ICE vehicles will also allow dealers to maintain a higher absorption rate and counter any loss in revenue from the impact of increasing EV sales on Fixed Ops performance. The best way for dealers to accomplish this is to expand beyond their local market and capture parts sales on a national level through online marketplaces and web stores. Dealers shouldn't shy away from the impact more EVs will have on their business. I recommend a shift in retain their strategies to find new ways to drive revenue and customers long term. Liesl Larouche, Senior Strategic Alliances Manager for RevolutionParts, supports the development and implementation of innovative parts and service solutions and is a passionate advocate for the OE Aftersales business. Through close collaboration with automakers and key industry partners, her focus is on transforming the industry with intuitive software and programs that enable OE franchised dealers to better serve their customers while growing their fixed operations business. 30