Independent garages face reduced income from EV servicing due to fewer mechanical components. Cleevely Motors' experience shows tyre sales can provide a vital new revenue stream, especially as tyre wear is higher on electric vehicles. This article explores how the right wholesale strategy and network support can turn tyres into a reliable profit source.
Cleevely Motors, an EV-specialist independent garage, reports a 30% increase in tyre sales since joining the Point S UK network in late 2023. The Cheltenham-based workshop has grown from fitting just two tyres a day to handling around 200 per month.
According to Managing Director Matt Cleevely, this shift reflects a strategic push to address the lost revenue typically associated with EV servicing, where fewer moving parts result in reduced maintenance opportunities.
"EVs wear through tyres faster than ICE vehicles, and that creates a genuine business case for offering tyre replacements in-house," said Cleevely.
Cleevely, who also runs Cleevely Electric Vehicles, believes many independent workshops underestimate the profit potential of tyres. He highlights that tyre sales not only drive revenue but also fulfil a technician's responsibility to ensure customer safety.
"If someone visits with a worn tyre, we have a duty to replace it rather than sending them elsewhere," he added. "It builds trust and makes business sense."
Cleevely credits much of the tyre sales growth to joining the Point S network, which offers access to wholesale pricing and collaborative best practices.
He argues that without the right buying strategy, many garages avoid tyres due to perceived low margins. However, strategic sourcing through networks like Point S has flipped that narrative.
"When managed correctly, tyres are far from a low-margin product," he explained. "They can be a steady income stream, especially with the EV fleet growing fast."
Cleevely also emphasised the need for collaboration among independent workshops as main dealer competition intensifies.
"Independent garages are declining in number, so it’s critical we share knowledge and work together," he said. "Being part of a network like Point S gives us the tools to compete."
As the EV market expands, traditional service models face disruption. With electric vehicles generating less mechanical wear, independent garages must adapt to remain viable. Tyre sales, driven by higher wear rates on EVs, represent a smart pivot. When combined with buying power and network support, tyres can help fill the revenue void and sustain garage profitability.
Tagged with: EV servicing, independent garages, tyre sales, Point S UK, electric vehicles, workshop profitability, wholesale tyres, tyre replacement
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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