Bay Area startup Amber has introduced a new electric vehicle-specific warranty program for owners of aging Tesla EVs in the United States.
About AmberCare
While it is true that electric vehicles benefit from less maintenance than gas-powered cars due to their fewer moving parts, they are still not faultless.
EV repairs can be expensive if the unit has already exceeded its warranty coverage. Numerous repair shops also do not possess the skill sets necessary to diagnose or conduct repairs on EVs.
In response, Amber developed its “High Voltage Care Plan” for Tesla Model S, 3, X, and Y units that are set to leave their four- and eight-year warranties.
According to the company’s website, the plan covers Tesla’s high-voltage battery and drive unit, unlike other plans available on the market. Without warranty coverage, these components tend to be expensive to repair.
It offers three coverage levels, including Basics, Essentials, and Premium. Their costs range from approximately $40 to $120 per month.
How does it work?
Tesla owners can utilize AmberCare by setting a diagnosis appointment at a local Authorized Repair Facility.
Interested customers can file a claim online after getting a quote for the repair. Once they get the approval, Amber will collaborate with customers to get the invoice paid.
Depending on the coverage, Amber will also cover the towing cost to a nearby Amber Authorized Repair facility and the repair price on approval. If needed, the company will also cover rental vehicles or rideshare costs.
Target customers
Amber CEO Joe Pak says that AmberCare may target two customer groups, at least at the outset. The first customer group consists of people planning to buy a used EV model but discouraged by the thought of costly, time-consuming repairs.
Meanwhile, the second is the group of owners who hold onto their electric vehicles past Tesla’s warranty. Amber already enrolled a small group of customers in AmberCare’s early access version.
Amber proudly announced plans to use $3.18 million in newly announced seed funding to achieve its goal of building the “first vertically integrated aftermarket warranty platform.”
