When I walked the floor of SEMA this year, the transformation was unmistakable. The same show that once showcased nothing but high-performance combustion engines and chrome accessories now featured a growing, if somewhat reluctant, embrace of electric vehicle technology. This shift reflects the broader evolution happening across the automotive aftermarket—a $50.9 billion industry now being forced to reckon with electrification.
The traditional automotive aftermarket has historically thrived on modifying vehicles after they leave the factory. But EVs present a fundamentally different proposition. They’re less mechanically complex, more software-dependent, and require specialized knowledge that many traditional shops simply don’t possess.
“We’re seeing a classic technology adoption curve in the aftermarket,” explains Marcus Chen, director of emerging technologies at the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association. “The innovators and early adopters are already creating EV-specific products and services, but the majority are still in wait-and-see mode. Many shop owners I’ve spoken with fear making major investments in EV-specific tools and training until customer demand increases.”
This hesitation is understandable. According to recent data from the Auto Care Association, EVs still represent less than 8% of vehicles on American roads in 2025, though that percentage continues to grow steadily. For many shops, especially in rural areas, the business case for full EV specialization hasn’t materialized.
Yet underneath this apparent reluctance lies fascinating innovation. Retrofitters like EV West have expanded beyond their initial niche of converting classic cars to electric power. They now offer complete aftermarket support packages for popular EV models, including performance upgrades, suspension modifications, and interior enhancements tailored to electric platforms.
The performance sector has been particularly creative. Companies like Unplugged Performance and Mountain Pass Performance have developed comprehensive performance modification packages for Teslas and other popular EVs. Their success challenges the notion that electric vehicles can’t be personalized or improved upon after purchase.
“The most exciting development I’ve witnessed is the democratization of EV modification,” says Tara Rodriguez, founder of ElectrifyMod, a community platform for EV enthusiasts. “Early on, only specialized shops could modify EVs. Now we’re seeing DIY communities emerge, with people sharing knowledge about everything from battery upgrades to custom software tweaks.”
This grassroots movement highlights an important transition. While the mechanical simplicity of EVs eliminates some traditional aftermarket opportunities, their sophisticated software creates entirely new ones. Custom UI modifications, performance mapping, and range optimization software have created a flourishing digital aftermarket.
Traditional parts manufacturers are adapting as well, albeit cautiously. Firms like Borla, famous for performance exhaust systems, now offer acoustic enhancement products for EVs. Continental and Bosch have developed specialized EV maintenance tools and diagnostic equipment to help traditional shops bridge the knowledge gap.
The retrofit market represents another growth area. Companies specializing in converting existing internal combustion vehicles to electric power have seen increasing demand, especially for classic cars, fleet vehicles, and specialized commercial applications.
“Converting a classic Porsche or vintage truck to electric power preserves these vehicles for the future,” notes Alex Zhang, chief engineer at ElectroMotive, which specializes in high-end EV conversions. “It’s not just about emissions—it’s about giving these vehicles another life with improved reliability and performance.”
Despite these innovations, significant challenges remain. Warranty concerns, battery access restrictions, and proprietary diagnostic systems from OEMs have created friction points for independent shops looking to service EVs. Some manufacturers have implemented measures making it difficult for aftermarket companies to access vehicle systems or data.
The Right to Repair movement has gained momentum in response, with legislative efforts underway in several states to ensure aftermarket access to diagnostic information and repair capabilities. Massachusetts’ landmark Right to Repair law, which specifically addresses EV concerns, has become a model for other states considering similar legislation.
Training and certification present another hurdle. Working with high-voltage systems requires specialized knowledge and safety protocols that many technicians lack. Organizations like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) have developed EV-specific certification programs, but adoption remains limited.
“The skills gap is real,” admits James Williams, director of technical training at a major parts distributor. “We’re trying to bridge that gap with targeted training programs, but many technicians who’ve spent decades working on internal combustion engines are hesitant to make the transition.”
The aftermarket is also grappling with entirely new categories of products. Portable charging solutions, battery health monitoring systems, and range-extending trailers weren’t on anyone’s radar a decade ago. Now they represent potential growth areas for forward-thinking businesses.
Looking ahead, the EV aftermarket appears poised for acceleration. With major manufacturers committing to electrification and government incentives supporting adoption, the tipping point for widespread aftermarket engagement seems inevitable, if not imminent.
For an industry built on adaptation and innovation, the electrification challenge represents both disruption and opportunity. The shops, manufacturers, and technicians who embrace this transition now will likely find themselves at a significant advantage as consumer preferences continue to evolve. The question isn’t whether the aftermarket will adapt to EVs, but how quickly—and which companies will lead the charge.
