As the Government’s 2035 ban on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles edges closer, a problem looms on the aftermarket’s horizon. The latest data from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) shows that just 22% of motor technicians in the UK are qualified to work on electric vehicles. Although recent reports show that private EV sales may have slowed for now, purchases of electric company cars grew by 42% in January 2024, and the number of ICE vehicles will inevitably decrease after the 2035 ban as more people switch to electric. With the number of EVs set to rise significantly over the next decade, the IMI predicts a skills shortage. While this is concerning for potential EV owners, it also presents garages with an opportunity to generate more business and attract a new customer base by becoming qualified to work on electric and hybrid vehicles. But with the cost of training and equipment to consider, the decision isn’t so straightforward, leaving many garage owners wondering whether they should start working on EVs now or wait for the 2035 ban to come into force. Is now the right time to get electrically qualified? Analysis by the IMI suggests that there could be a shortfall of 30,000 qualified EV technicians by 2030, so being able to work on electric vehicles means that you will likely see a significant influx of business. Internal data from WhoCanFixMyCar has already shown an increase of over 2,000% in EV servicing quote requests since 2019. This equates to a 46% year-on-year increase in electric vehicle repair requests from drivers, with no sign of this demand slowing down in 2024 and beyond. Globally, the EV industry is growing rapidly, and this boom is expected to hit the UK in the not-too-distant future. The second-hand market will continue with the sale of used petrol and diesel cars, but eventually, these 60 AFTERMARKET MAY 2024 TRAINING www.aftermarketonline.net EV TRAINING FOR YOUR TECHS Why your garage needs EV trained mechanics now BY Marc Russell - Head of the Garage Network
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