Andy:
I'm imagining that once you have battery management systems, motor controllers and flight control systems then maintenance will become more like a continuous condition monitoring process by electronic means along with almost all preflight tasks. At least some of the high end UAVs are doing this at least partially and most of the big jet turbines are likewise under continuous surveillance.
Battery capacity will be determined every discharge-charge cycle.
..........That would be logical, so, based on experience to date, CASA will introduce Australia specific unique test and inspection requirements on top of anything the FAA specifies. These requirements will then triple the cost of deployment in Australia compared to the USA.
Yes, I know I’m cynical.