Innovation
Advanced fault investigation and repair development for complex electric and hybrid vehicle issues
Sustainability Through Innovation
Our R&D work directly supports a more sustainable future by focusing on repair-led solutions before replacement. This approach helps to:
- Reduce unnecessary replacement of high-value components
- Extend the usable life of EV batteries and systems
- Minimise waste within the automotive repair industry
- Lower overall repair costs for customers and insurers
We believe repair should always be explored before replacement and our innovation capability makes that possible.
Our R&D Investigation Process
Case Review & Technical Assessment
We review the vehicle history, previous diagnostics and reported symptoms to understand the issue and determine the investigation approach.
Advanced Diagnostic Investigation
Our specialists carry out in-depth testing using specialist EV diagnostic tools and engineering analysis to identify the root cause.
Repair Development & Validation
Where no existing repair method exists, our team develops and tests a safe, effective repair procedure.
Implementation & Knowledge Development
Once proven, the repair is carried out and documented, often contributing to the development of new repair services across the LKQ Electriq network.
Innovation Capabilities and Techniques
Our workshop integrates a wide range of advanced processes and technologies to support diagnosis, validation and component-level repair development.
Advanced Repair Techniques
- Laser welding for precision component repair
- Custom adhesive solutions for structural and thermal bonding
- Circuit board diagnostics and component-level repair
- Processor reading and writing for module recovery
Diagnostics & Analysis
- Thermal imaging for fault detection and performance validation
- Serial decoding and system analysis to understand component behaviour
- High-voltage battery testing including cell-level and full pack diagnostics
Sustainable Solutions
- Sourcing and testing reclaimed components where appropriate
- Validation of used parts for safe reuse
- Developing repair alternatives to full unit replacement
Programming & Integration
- Programming, coding and module reconfiguration
- System matching and functional validation
Our Latest R&D Projects
DC-DC Converter Fault
Mild-hybrid vehicles are seeing rising DC-DC converter fault issues. Our R&D team are developing a repair-led solution that allows converters to be bench-tested and repaired off‑car, cutting vehicle downtime, costs, and reliance on long OEM backorders.
Looking Ahead - Your EV Challenge Could Be Our Next Breakthrough
As LKQ Electriq grows, our innovation programme will continue to expand, broadening EV platform coverage, developing new repair techniques and technologies, and sharing knowledge across a wider UK network to support industry-leading standards in high-voltage component repair.
If you’re experiencing an EV issue that no one seems able to solve, and it falls outside the scope of our existing bespoke expert services, we can go a step further. In rare cases, we’ll take your vehicle on as a dedicated R&D project, allowing our specialists to investigate, innovate, and develop a solution where none currently exists.
Our focus as we grow:
- Broader EV platform coverage
- New repair techniques and technologies
- Knowledge sharing across a wider UK network
- Industry-leading standards in high-voltage component repair
Get in touch using the button below to start the journey.
Fantastic Guys! I’ve been having an ongoing issue with my Hybrid Range Rover for 6 months+. These guys offered advice, alternatives and a solution all while making it affordable. Even reaching out to see how I’m doing, if the problems sorted etc. Fantastic Service, Fantastic People. Thanks 🫱🏻🫲🏼