Aug 07, 2021
I have nearly 30 years managing industrial plant maintenance and reliability. My maintenance techs were mostly mechanics and over time industrial controls folks became more and more critical as automation and controls were improved. The single biggest labor challenge I faced was hiring qualified controls techs, training controls techs and keeping controls techs. The modern mechanic has to carry a laptop computer and be able to read code, understand all types of sensors, understand feedback systems, and remain current on the updated programs or even learn new programs quickly.
Today's Bronco (as well as other new vehicles) is loaded with sensors, feedback systems and programs. I can't tell you how many times I've seen discussions on how to troubleshoot trailer wiring...tips, tricks, ground issues, etc. Where are all the qualified technicians going to come from and how much do we want to spend on Bronco maintenance? Besides the technicians, there is all the new test equipment required to troubleshoot and repair the vehicle. Hourly rates for industrial controls technicians can exceed $40/hr. Will the dealerships pay that to keep qualified techs happy?
I can't wait to take my Bronco out but at the same time I worry a wire will shake loose somewhere and the entire vehicle becomes a rock.
All this came to mind as a read an article yesterday about the annual maintenance costs for EVs. For the first couple of years, the cost exceeds internal combustion engine vehicles (although the first year maintenance may be covered by the manufacturer). It's all crazy.
The days when I could sit on the wheel well of my pick-up truck, adjust the carburetor, change the points, etc., are long gone as well as my ability to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair my Bronco (whenever I get it).
Here is a quote from Zip Recruiter: "While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $129,500 and as low as $19,500, the majority of Electric Vehicle Technician salaries currently range between $30,500 (25th percentile) to $64,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $106,500 annually across the United States."
Today's Bronco (as well as other new vehicles) is loaded with sensors, feedback systems and programs. I can't tell you how many times I've seen discussions on how to troubleshoot trailer wiring...tips, tricks, ground issues, etc. Where are all the qualified technicians going to come from and how much do we want to spend on Bronco maintenance? Besides the technicians, there is all the new test equipment required to troubleshoot and repair the vehicle. Hourly rates for industrial controls technicians can exceed $40/hr. Will the dealerships pay that to keep qualified techs happy?
I can't wait to take my Bronco out but at the same time I worry a wire will shake loose somewhere and the entire vehicle becomes a rock.
All this came to mind as a read an article yesterday about the annual maintenance costs for EVs. For the first couple of years, the cost exceeds internal combustion engine vehicles (although the first year maintenance may be covered by the manufacturer). It's all crazy.
The days when I could sit on the wheel well of my pick-up truck, adjust the carburetor, change the points, etc., are long gone as well as my ability to troubleshoot, diagnose and repair my Bronco (whenever I get it).
Here is a quote from Zip Recruiter: "While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $129,500 and as low as $19,500, the majority of Electric Vehicle Technician salaries currently range between $30,500 (25th percentile) to $64,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $106,500 annually across the United States."
7/14: Outer Banks, Eruption Green, Lux Package, 2.7 Eco, Sasquatch Package, Roof Rack, Towing Package, HD Modular front bumper, AUX switches
Shadowblade, Mountainwiitch
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Aug 07, 2021