The price of these cars is attractive, but second-hand buyers will take the hit

One of the most famous and controversial contributions of McDonald's to consumer culture is the 'Supersize' phenomenon, or as it is known in Israeli slang - 'make it bigger for a shekel'. The basic law of the phenomenon states that the smaller the additional cost of the 'supersize', the greater the consumer tendency to choose the largest and most exaggerated option offered.

This phenomenon is currently sweeping the Israeli automotive market with full force. An analysis of the best-selling models in Israel over the last two years points to a rapid and significant increase in the average length, width, and weight of vehicles. The main reason for this is the increasing availability of large, heavy, and well-equipped Chinese models with electric or 'electrified' propulsion at market-breaking prices.

This is not surprising. For many years, the Israeli consumer was forced to transport their family in crowded, poorly equipped, and expensive 'family' models, so the desire to upgrade to a larger vehicle and at the same time save significantly on fuel expenses thanks to a 'green' drive is natural. But in the automotive industry, there are no free gifts. Those same large and heavy vehicles that are sold by the manufacturer or the marketer at subsidized prices due to competitive motives may harbor hidden costs along the way.

The price of giant rims

Most electric and electrified vehicles currently arrive with giant rims on which tires of impressive dimensions are mounted. If in the past rims of 18 inches and above were an expensive and relatively rare option in Israel, today one can find on the market models at 150-170 thousand shekels, which are equipped as standard with rims of 19, 20 or even 21 inches.

Beyond the aesthetic contribution, such wheels are necessary to support the high weight of the vehicles, and also to cope with the high power and massive torque that characterize electric vehicles and plug-in vehicles. Many of the tires of such vehicles have unique characteristics such as low rolling resistance, which aims to increase the electric range, a reinforced structure to support high weight, and 'quiet' rubber compounds to silence friction noises.

Components that make maintenance expensive

• Giant rims: Tires for large rims on electric vehicles wear out faster and cost up to 2.5 times more than regular tires.

• Sensors in the bumper: Even a light hit may require replacing the radar and software calibration, or even replacing the bumper - for hundreds to thousands of shekels.

• 'Smart' mirrors: Replacing a side mirror that includes a surround camera and a blind spot sensor costs thousands of shekels.

• Multimedia screens: The screens are sensitive and require complex installation. The repair becomes more expensive according to the size of the screen and may reach thousands of shekels.

The price range for a single tire for a 19-20 inch rim on an electric or electrified vehicle can range between 900 and 1,600 shekels, 1.5 to 2.5 times the price of a tire for 16-17 inch rims on a regular vehicle. When replacing a set of four tires, the difference amounts to thousands of shekels.

The weight of a typical electric vehicle or PHEV can easily range around 2-2.3 tons, so such tires are constantly under heavier load. This is in addition to the increased friction created by the deceleration forces of the regenerative braking systems, and a low tire sidewall that increases sensitivity to tearing when encountering curbs and potholes. The result is a typical lifespan 15% to 20% shorter than that of equivalent regular tires. Buyers of a used vehicle may receive an expensive surprise.

Risk even in light impacts

In Israel, the supersize phenomenon does not only concern dimensions and weight but also 'maximum standard equipment for a shekel' - screens, surround cameras, panoramic sunroofs, and other accessories. Generous equipment upgrades the feeling and usability of the vehicle but can be expensive in case of repairs.

For example, 'light' impacts to bumpers can cause damage to sensitive equipment even at parking speeds. Even particularly cheap Chinese models today arrive from the factory with a surround camera array and an advanced safety package that includes 8-12 sensors, including a millimeter-wave radar that is usually installed in the bumper. Since these are units connected to the central computer in the vehicle, their assembly and integration require special software and knowledge. Sometimes it is also necessary to replace the entire bumper instead of repairing the sensors embedded in it, and here the cost is much higher.

Research data recently cited by the UK Drivers Association shows that the cost of components of driver assistance systems (ADAS) currently constitutes about a third of accident repair costs. One must take into account a quite extreme gap between the low purchase price of the vehicle and the replacement and repair price of components.

More sophisticated, more expensive

Replacing an electric side mirror on a simple vehicle costs about 60 pounds in the UK. In contrast, replacing such a mirror on a 'smart' vehicle, in which a camera is embedded that is part of the surround cameras as well as a 'blind spot' sensor, can cost about 600 pounds. In Israel, this means 3,000 shekels and more for an original part.

Also, a huge panoramic glass roof is a very popular feature. If it cracks or breaks, its replacement can cost between 8,000 and 15 thousand shekels depending on the model. Replacing the giant screens in smart vehicles can cost thousands of shekels, as they require expensive professional installation and connection to the vehicle computer. Bottom line, one must take into account that the 'bargain' prices at which many large and smart models are currently sold, certainly when they are used, may hide surprises. Meanwhile, the insurance industry is learning this new phenomenon and covers most costs without significantly changing premiums, but when the reality hits, it is likely that the costs will land on the consumers in full force.