Toronto, Ontario — Festivities are underway at the third annual , which is being held on May 14 and 15 at Toronto’s Enercare Centre.
As North America’s premier conference for professionals in electric vehicle adoption and charging infrastructure, it attracted more than 2,000 delegates from about 800 organizations, including major companies like IKEA, Loblaw Companies, Purolator, Coca-Cola, Kruger and UPS. This year, visitors are able to enjoy a range of activities, including test drives of electric and hydrogen vehicles such as the Ford F-150 Lightning, Kia EV9, Volkswagen ID. Buzz, Toyota Mirai XLE and Ram ProMaster EV on a 1.8-kilometre route around Exhibition Place.
The event highlighted advancements in EVs and underscored the significant impact these developments have on the collision repair industry. This shift toward EVs presents both challenges and opportunities for the collision repair sector. With the increasing presence of EVs on the road, collision repair shops must adapt to new technologies and methodologies to remain competitive and ensure safety.
According to several of the experts present at the event, collision repair facilities can benefit from the EV revolution by installing on-site charging stations. Beyond being a technical necessity, this move offers a wide array of strategic benefits. EV charging capabilities allow repair shops to provide complete end-to-end service to EV owners. After repairing an electric vehicle, being able to return it fully charged adds convenience and professionalism, which boosts customer satisfaction. It also streamlines the repair process and allows technicians to recharge vehicles that require battery diagnostics, testing, or re-calibration after repairs without needing to move them off-site.
Shops that install charging stations may qualify for government incentives, utility rebates or partnership opportunities with EV manufacturers and charging networks. These benefits can offset installation costs and generate new revenue streams, particularly if shops offer public or after-hours charging services. For facilities courting the business of electric fleets, ride share services or delivery companies, charging infrastructure enhances operational efficiency can position the business as a reliable long-term partner.
The Expo also features more than 100 expert speakers across four stages, discussing topics like fleet electrification, charging infrastructure, energy management and policy developments. The exhibition hall is showcasing the latest in EV technology and charging solutions, with participation from leading companies such as Ford Pro, Volvo, Stellantis, Uber and Toronto Hydro One.
