Trend in Used Electric Vehicles: Battery Inspection Remains a Challenge

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The increasing population of electric vehicles in Indonesia is beginning to impact the used car market. Electric vehicle units are no longer circulating only in the new segment but are also entering the used car trading market. However, behind this trend, the inspection process for electric vehicles is not as straightforward as for conventional cars, particularly in evaluating the condition of their main component, the battery. He explained that unlike conventional engine cars, which have many technical parameters that can be tested, electric vehicles rely on one vital component that is difficult to analyse without special equipment. Moreover, the battery accounts for the largest portion of the overall value of electric vehicles. Currently, the inspection process for electric vehicles at Otospector still focuses on general aspects such as exterior and interior condition, flood history, and non-battery electrical systems. Meanwhile, components like electric motors and transmissions are checked only for basic functions. “For electric vehicles, we still check general things like flooding, suspension, and features. But we haven’t reached the battery yet, because that requires a different approach,” he said. Jeffrey added that his company is currently conducting research to find the right method for accurately measuring battery health. In addition, the varying characteristics of batteries across different manufacturers also make the standardisation of inspections more complex. This differs from conventional cars, which have a relatively uniform inspection approach. Nevertheless, Jeffrey is optimistic that solutions will emerge in the future to meet these needs, as electric vehicle technology advances. He believes that improvements in inspection quality will be key to maintaining consumer trust in the growing used electric vehicle market.