Resources / Case Studies / Strong Hold & Hubbard Supply Deliver Custom EV Battery Workbenches for Tier 1 Auto Manufacturer
Case Study

Strong Hold & Hubbard Supply Deliver Custom EV Battery Workbenches for Tier 1 Auto Manufacturer

Strong Hold + Hubbard Supply custom industrial workbench

Strong Hold & Hubbard Supply logos

Strong Hold, the industry leader in industrial storage and workspace solutions, partnered with Hubbard Supply to provide a custom ergonomic work holding system for a Tier 1 automotive manufacturer in Michigan.

The manufacturer, known for its innovation in electric vehicle (EV) technology, needed a specialized solution to inspect large, heavy EV batteries safely and efficiently within one of its advanced engineering centers. With Strong Hold’s engineering expertise and Hubbard Supply’s close customer relationship, the result was a turn-key mobile workbench solution that met and exceeded all operational expectations.

 

Challenge

The customer needed a durable, mobile, and ergonomic platform to inspect large EV batteries—each weighing thousands of pounds—in a fast-paced, engineering-focused environment.

Key challenges included:

  • Extreme Weight Capacity: The custom industrial workbenches had to safely support up to 6,000 lbs of battery weight.
  • Large Surface Area: Batteries required extra-large benchtops measuring 105” x 67”.
  • Mobile Operation: Benches needed to be fully mobile yet stable, requiring swivel and rigid casters with locking foot brakes.
  • Tool Organization: Additional modular storage for tools, parts, and components were essential for daily use.
  • Custom Aesthetic: The benches had to be painted in a custom color to match the facility’s branding and theme.
  • Quick Implementation: The customer needed a solution with a reasonable lead time and minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

 

Solution

Strong Hold and Hubbard Supply collaborated closely to deliver a fully customized, heavy-duty mobile custom industrial workbench system that met every need of the manufacturer’s engineering team.

Here’s how the solution came together:

  • Joint Sales Consultations: Strong Hold and Hubbard Supply conducted on-site reviews and multiple meetings with the customer’s engineering team to fully understand the scope and challenges of the project.
  • Custom Design Engineering: Strong Hold’s in-house engineering team developed several design options, incorporating customer feedback until the ideal configuration was finalized.
  • Engineered for Heavy Loads: Each bench was built to withstand up to 6,000 lbs, supporting even the largest EV batteries with confidence and stability.
  • Oversized Work Surface: The 105” x 67” dimensions provided ample space to safely handle and inspect oversized battery systems.
  • Mobility with Control: Heavy-duty swivel and rigid casters with locking foot brakes allowed for easy positioning and secure placement during inspection procedures.
  • Integrated Modular Storage: The design included custom compartments and modular tool storage drawers to keep essential tools organized and within arm’s reach.
  • Color-Matched Aesthetic: The benches were finished in a custom color to seamlessly match the visual identity of the customer’s shop.
  • Turn-Key Delivery: Strong Hold crafted extreme-duty custom pallets to ensure safe transit and ready-to-use delivery. With Hubbard Supply managing logistics, the benches were delivered and installed with zero delays.

 

Results

The delivery of Strong Hold’s custom industrial workbenches resulted in immediate operational benefits for the auto manufacturer:

  • ✅ Improved Access to Heavy Batteries: The large surface area and high weight capacity gave engineers the ability to work more confidently with oversized EV battery packs.
  • ✅ Ergonomic Efficiency: The benches were designed at the optimal work height to minimize strain and improve technician comfort during battery inspections.
  • ✅ Enhanced Mobility & Flexibility: The casters allowed for seamless movement within the facility, increasing workflow flexibility.
  • ✅ Organized Workspace: Modular storage reduced clutter and improved tool accessibility, increasing efficiency.
  • ✅ Professional Appearance: The custom color added a polished, unified look that aligned with the facility’s branding.

 

Key Takeaways

This project exemplifies Strong Hold’s ability to engineer industrial workspace solutions that directly improve performance, safety, and ergonomics in advanced manufacturing environments.

What made it successful:

  • Collaboration: A Close partnership between Strong Hold, Hubbard Supply, and the customer ensured every detail was addressed.
  • Customization: Strong Hold tailored every aspect of the benches, from size to color, to fit the exact use case.
  • Industrial Strength: The 6,000 lb. load rating and durability-first design guarantee long-term reliability.
  • Speed & Simplicity: Despite its complexity, the project was completed with a reasonable lead time and delivered turn-key for immediate use.

 

Conclusion

By partnering with Hubbard Supply and Strong Hold, this Tier 1 automotive manufacturer received a best-in-class mobile inspection solution for EV battery development. From concept to delivery, Strong Hold’s commitment to quality, customization, and customer satisfaction was evident in every detail.

This case is yet another example of how Strong Hold doesn’t just build cabinets—they build solutions that power the future of manufacturing.