The UK is facing a shortage of qualified electric vehicle (EV) mechanics, with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) predicting a shortfall of 3,000 by 2031. This figure could rise to 16,000 by 2035, particularly if the government accelerates the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales.
Currently, only 58,800 technicians hold the necessary EV TechSafe qualification to work on electric vehicles. This represents less than a quarter of the UK’s automotive workforce. While the number of qualified technicians has grown, it’s still not keeping pace with the increasing number of electric and hybrid cars on our roads.
The IMI warns that London and the South East, regions with high EV ownership, already have a shortage of qualified mechanics. The East of England has the highest proportion of EV-certified technicians, while Northern Ireland has the lowest.
Kevin Finn, Executive Chair of the IMI, emphasised the need for increased training and investment in the automotive workforce to address the skills gap and ensure the smooth transition to electric vehicles.
Kevan Wooden, CEO at LKQ UK & Ireland, said:
“Fast growth in the used electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid market strengthens the business case for garages and workshops to invest in the skills and equipment needed to service plug-ins.
“Only 11% of UK mechanics are currently qualified to work on EVs – which means there’s an opportunity for independents with the right capability to position themselves as plug-in specialists, and to retain existing customers as they trade-up into electric, while winning new customers from the competition.
“Given the size of the EV skills gap, the fact that seven in ten motorists prefer to use independents, and the projected continued growth of the second-hand EV market – not to mention Labour’s commitment to electrification – our advice is to upskill now. This will allow technicians to ensure they’re both prepared for the future and well placed to capitalise on the more immediate opportunity presented by growing hybrid adoption.
“We’ve already upskilled 3,000 technicians in servicing hybrid and electric car maintenance and repair through the LKQ Academy to help address the skills gap. And we’re expanding our training nationwide to build the capacity needed for a successful EV transition.”
The industry must prioritise training to meet the growing demand for EV maintenance and repairs and avoid potential disruptions for EV owners.
Source: This Is Money
