Regarding the parts wait: I keep thinking that Zero likely initially only orders enough parts from their overseas suppliers to build the number of bikes that they have planned for the year and no more. Then when a problem arises and they need some extra loose spare parts, they don't have any on hand that are not already reserved for the factory's motorcycle production. Ordering new parts from their suppliers is likely a real hassle as they probably moved on to other customers and want a large order from Zero before starting up another production line again. So I can see why Zero has trouble shipping out replacement parts and why they don't have any good excuses (that would satisfy their customers or their retail dealers) when these parts are needed to keep their customers on the road. 
I also have a feeling that the "bean counters" at Zero have a lot of influence on their day-to-day operations. 
Now you've got me worried Richard! Whilst I have no doubt that the bean counters will be doing what they can to minimise production costs etc, they must be totally corrupt to think that they can get away with not keeping an adequate spare parts inventory. That is short term thinking in the extreme. I would say that it is nigh on impossible to manufacture parts after the initial production run is complete.
I'm no expert, but I would imagine that doing additional production runs would only be economic if sales are much higher than anticipated during a current model year. Suppliers will likely keep the necessary equipment for that year, but then it must surely be game over?
I'm sure some parts are less of a problem, but things like electronics that change all the time must only get one chance to be produced?
My big concern would be parts that are unique to Zero motorcycles, such as perhaps wheels, frames, fairing parts, batteries, motors and any electronic parts that can not be bought off-the-shelf. However, I would imagine that this would be the case for any new low-volume electric vehicle.
The solution would be for Zero to purchase perhaps 10% more parts than they actually needed to build new vehicles and keep them around for spars, but I doubt that they would do that just to potentially keep customers happy. I imagine that their thought is that none of the parts will fail and spending money on spares just doesn't make any economic sense - once the customer has purchased the vehicle.
Their goal would seem to be to sell new motorcycles, not necessarily to keep old ones running.
) And also perhaps the further you are away from the factory, the harder it is to get their attention.
I really want to buy a 2018 Zero to replace my 2014S, but it is a hard decision, what with the Federal tax credit gone, the state tax rebate being reduced dependent upon the applicant's income, the new increase of CA EV licensing fees, and the concern about the reliability of Zeros and their replacement parts system - all make a new purchase worrying.
Author
Topic: Waiting weeks for parts. is this normal? (Read 1551 times)