Powering the Future: A franchise owner invests in EV services at Meineke
For automotive repair experts, keeping pace with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is an opportunity. Kevin Leger, a Meineke franchise owner with eight locations in the Phoenix area, is excited to help lead the charge.
Kevin Leger has always been a “car guy.”
His journey in the automotive industry began seven years ago following a successful career at Intel: “When I found a firm selling seven Meineke shops as a package deal, it just seemed like the perfect fit.”
But being a "car guy" today means more than just loving traditional engines – it’s about staying ahead of the curve.
“We know where the industry is going, and we like being on the leading edge of things,” Kevin said.
With that mindset, Kevin took the leap, working alongside regional manager David Eichelberger to implement EV services at their location in Ahwatukee, Arizona, a community noted for its high adoption rate of electric vehicles.
“It was a no-brainer for us,” Kevin said, highlighting a strategic choice backed by demographic research. “No one else in the area was advertising ASE Certified EV and hybrid services, so we had a unique opportunity.”
Selecting the right location was just the beginning. Next, they had to find the right people. “We talked to the technicians at a few shops and narrowed it down to three,” Kevin recalled. “We spoke with the technicians and explained there would be a lot of training. It’s a week-long boot camp, plus 30 to 40 hours online. Two technicians were on board and willing to commit, which sealed the deal as far as site selection.”
Kevin collaborated with Meineke Corporate to ensure the shop had the necessary tools and safety equipment, including a charging station. They also needed to budget for major expenses, such as specialty diagnostic equipment and an A/C evac and recharge machine.
Once the foundation was in place, their mission was to spread the word: “We went big to let the community know we were offering something new,” Kevin said. The grand reopening was marked by local advertising efforts, including a front-page feature in a weekly newspaper and an event with banners and workshops.
Looking ahead, Kevin remains optimistic about the future, in part because many customers he’s spoken to have been frustrated with long wait times at their dealership for repairs.
“In almost every case, we can get their vehicle repaired and back on the road within a day or two. Compared to a month or longer wait at the dealership, they’re very happy,” he added.
He also pointed out that while it might be a slow start, the long-term rewards will be worth it. “This is similar to what Mike Baden experienced,” referring to the owner of a Meineke franchise in Indian Land, South Carolina, who offers EV repairs. “He began with just a couple of cars a week and eventually moved to three or four a day after several months,” he said.
For other Meineke franchise owners considering the transition to EV repairs, Kevin stresses the importance of recognizing the up-front investment required.
“Training and tools represent an upfront cost,” he said. “Understand the investment and be prepared to make it, knowing that the return may take a year or more to recoup.”
Because EVs are still not fully understood in the same way as traditional vehicles, educating EV owners on how to maintain their cars is also key. Kevin pointed out that while this lack of awareness presents a challenge, it’s also a chance for Meineke shops to step in as trusted service providers for EV owners.
“For example, most manufacturers recommend an annual inspection and lubrication of the brake caliper slide pins. However, many EV owners aren’t even aware this is something they should do,” Kevin said. Kevin and his team have more on the horizon to level up the shop’s EV services and continue raising awareness.
“Expanding our capability to handle heavier, more expensive repairs and maintenance on EVs is one thing we’re planning to take on,” Kevin began. “We’re also pursuing a Level-2 charger in the parking lot. This is to raise awareness but also because the grid and the build-out of EV charging stations aren't nearly where they need to be, even in larger markets.”
Kevin sees a future where EV repairs become a key part of their business, noting that “in 10 years, it’s not unreasonable to think that a typical auto repair shop could be doing half of its volume on electric vehicles.”