Commercial Repair Garage for Electric Vehicles Only

[scarter]

Hello code gurus.

Our makerspace is considering adding a vehicle repair area for electric vehicles only. This would include a 2 post lift and various tools for tires, suspension work, etc (i.e. minor
repairs). We'll have a strict policy of no combustion engines as most of our members own EVs anyway. No need for any indoor EV chargers either.

We're having difficulty finding any building code requirements referencing repair garage codes for EVs. They all indicate codes for vehicles powered by flammable fuels.

Any suggestions are appreciated!

 

[ICE]

I suspect that an AHJ will not accept a promise to never have a combustible fuel powered vehicle being worked on. Beyond that is the heightened fire risk of lithium batteries. Not so much that lithium batteries catch fire more often than gas/diesel .... it's just that putting out a lithium fire is such a chore.

If anything, there needs to be a sea change of the code with regards to a vehicle repair occupancy. It would not surprise me to learn that landlords want nothing to do with electric cars.

I have seen reports where a fire dept. pulled a burning Tesla out to the middle of the street and let it burn.....it ruined the pavement. It's better to work on a Tesla in an open field.

 

[e hilton]

What is a makerspace?

And i doubt there would not be an indoor charger. While the car is up on the lift for brake and suspension work, wouldn’t it be a good opportunty to add an hour of charge? Or cars left overnight?

 

[Mr. Inspector]

I don't see any definition under for Motor-Vehicles in the IBC or IFC. EV's have motors. Where did you get for "vehicles powered by flammable fuels" only?