The Rise of EV-Centric Service Providers in the U.S. Automotive Aftermarket: Strategic Positioning for Profit in the EV Transition Era

The U.S. automotive aftermarket is undergoing a seismic shift as electric vehicles (EVs) redefine the landscape of vehicle ownership and maintenance. With the global EV aftermarket projected to grow at a 21.1% CAGR through 2033, the $308.75B market by 2033 is no longer a distant forecast—it's a race already in motion. Legacy service chains like Firestone, Jiffy Lube, and Safelite are scrambling to adapt, but the winners will be those that combine infrastructure innovation, technician training, and customer-centric EV-specific services. Let's dissect who's best positioned to capture this explosive growth.

Firestone: Bridging the Gap Between Legacy and Electrification

Firestone, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, has taken a bold step into the EV era. By 2025, 44 of its locations in high-EV-density markets like Austin and San Francisco now offer diagnostics, battery health checks, and repairs for high-voltage systems. Bridgestone's partnership with Blink Charging to install 50 Level 2 EV charging stations at 25 stores is a masterstroke—turning service centers into EV “pit stops” for charging and maintenance.

But infrastructure alone isn't enough. Firestone's investment in technician training is equally critical. Bridgestone has rolled out advanced safety programs for handling high-voltage components, ensuring its workforce is equipped to service the complexities of EVs. This dual focus on infrastructure and human capital positions Firestone as a hybrid player: a traditional auto service brand with a foot in the EV future.

Jiffy Lube: Piloting the EV Service Model

Jiffy Lube, a Shell Oil subsidiary, is testing the waters with its Electric Vehicle Signature Service in seven high-EV markets, including Los Angeles, Portland, and Miami. This pilot includes multi-point inspections, tire rotations, and battery system diagnostics. But the real innovation lies in its exploration of EV charging integration. By testing “top-off” charging during service visits, Jiffy Lube is addressing a key pain point for EV owners: convenience.

The company's strategy is data-driven. By gathering feedback from EV drivers, Jiffy Lube aims to refine its offerings before scaling. This cautious yet adaptive approach mirrors the broader EV transition—incremental but deliberate. However, Jiffy Lube's reliance on pilot testing may leave it playing catch-up to faster-moving competitors.

Safelite: A Missed Opportunity or Strategic Patience?

Safelite Group, best known for windshield repair and replacement, has not yet announced EV-specific initiatives. While this might seem like a gap, it could also reflect a calculated decision to focus on its core competencies. The company's recent acquisitions and market expansion suggest a strategy of diversification rather than direct EV service entry. However, as EVs require more frequent software updates and sensor maintenance (e.g., for ADAS systems), Safelite's expertise in precision repairs could become valuable. The question is whether it will pivot quickly enough.

Beyond the Big Three: Emerging Contenders

The EV service arms race isn't limited to legacy players. Monro Inc. and RepairSmith (acquired by AutoNation) are investing in EV-specific training and mobile service models. Tesla's in-house service network remains a benchmark, but third-party providers like EVGo and Greenlots are carving niches in charging infrastructure and fleet electrification.

What separates these players is their ability to scale. For example, Monro's acquisition of Mountain View Tire & Service Inc. in 2024 highlights its focus on EV tire and battery services, while RepairSmith's mobile model reduces friction for EV owners. These companies are betting on convenience and specialization—two pillars of the EV service economy.

The Winning Formula: Training, Technology, and Trust

The $308.75B market will favor companies that:
1. Upskill Technicians: EVs require a new skill set. Firestone's training programs and Bridgestone's partnerships with educational institutions (e.g., Akron's Firestone Complete Auto Care center) are critical differentiators.
2. Leverage Digital Tools: Predictive maintenance, OTA updates, and telematics are table stakes. Companies like Valeo and Bosch are already embedding these into their offerings.
3. Build EV-Centric Infrastructure: Charging stations at service centers (Firestone's Blink partnership) or mobile repair units (RepairSmith) create sticky customer relationships.

Investment Outlook: Who to Watch

• Firestone (Bridgestone Americas): A strong contender with infrastructure and training in place. Its stock's recent performance reflects investor confidence in its EV pivot.
• Jiffy Lube (Shell Oil): The pilot program is a test of scalability. If successful, its 2,000+ locations could become a national EV service network.
• Monro Inc. (MNRO): Its aggressive expansion and focus on EV-specific services make it a high-growth play.
• Tesla (TSLA): While not a service provider, its in-house network sets the standard for EV service excellence.

Conclusion: The EV Transition is a Gold Rush

The U.S. EV aftermarket is a gold rush where legacy players and disruptors alike are vying for dominance. Firestone's infrastructure bets, Jiffy Lube's adaptive pilot model, and emerging players like Monro and RepairSmith are all vying for a slice of the pie. For investors, the key is to identify companies that balance short-term execution (training, partnerships) with long-term vision (EV-specific infrastructure and digital integration).

The market won't wait. By 2033, the winners will be those who've already built the bridges between legacy and electrification. The question is: who's ready to cross them?