Collision claims involving battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) increased across North America in 2025, even as new EV sales slowed. According to the latest Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights report from Mitchell, repairable BEV claims rose 14% in the U.S. and 24% in Canada year over year.

“Even as BEV adoption slowed, claims volume rose since more of these automobiles are on the road than ever before,” said Ryan Mandell, vice president of strategy and market intelligence at Mitchell.

Growth extended beyond fully electric vehicles. Plug-in hybrid claims increased 6% in the U.S. and 26% in Canada, while mild hybrid claims jumped 20% and 29%, respectively.

EV Repairs Remain More Complex

EV repairs continue to require more time, expertise, and precision than internal-combustion vehicles. In 2025, BEVs averaged 1.70 calibrations per estimate, driven by advanced driver-assistance systems and increased electronic content.

OEM parts also accounted for approximately 86% of parts dollars on repairable BEV estimates—significantly higher than conventional vehicles.

Severity Eases, But Pressure Remains

Average severity for repairable BEV claims declined slightly—down 5% in the U.S. and 2% in Canada—though total loss values dropped more sharply due to depreciation, lower-cost EV models, and shifting consumer sentiment.

The Takeaway for Collision Shops

Despite slower new-vehicle sales, electrified vehicles continue to make up a growing share of collision work. BEVs accounted for about 3.07% of all repairable U.S. auto claims in 2025, with hybrids also gaining ground.

As more EVs age into the repair cycle, shops without the proper training, tooling, and certifications may face increasing pressure. EV readiness is quickly becoming essential.

Source and reporting credit: Lisa McArdle, Autobody News.