EVs, hybrids and aftercare 29 www.aftermarketonline.net JULY/AUGUST 2025 Charging ahead to keep up with change Neil Gibbs, head of Eurorepar Car Service network UK, says EV training is key to futureproofing workshops The automotive industry is experiencing its most significant transformation since the invention of the internal combustion engine. As we navigate through 2025, the pace of technological change has never been more rapid, and the need for comprehensive, up-to-date training has never been more critical. It is often the case that workshops who invest in training frequently outperform those who don’t. The statistics paint a compelling picture of an industry in flux. With battery electric vehicles (BEVs) capturing 21% of new car registrations in January 2025 and used EV sales surging by 57.4% yearon-year, the shift towards electrification is accelerating faster than ever. Workshops need to adapt quickly to service this growing market. According to the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) latest ‘Automotive Education Report’, EV and hybrid qualifications made up 44% of all automotive certifications in the fourth quarter of 2024. The IMI Level 3 award in electric/hybrid vehicle system repair and Replacement topped the list, representing 17% of all certifications in the sector. At Eurorepar Car Service, we ensure that each of our centres’ skilled technicians have access to up-to-date training programmes, allowing them to stay in touch with the latest technical developments. Additional data from the IMI reveals the scale of the challenge. 58,800 technicians are now qualified to work on electric vehicles, representing 24% of the UK automotive workforce. However, the IMI is predicting a shortfall of 3,000 technicians by 2031, with the gap expected to reach 16,000 by 2035. This skills gap represents both a challenge and an enormous opportunity for technicians willing to invest in their development. Our network of service centres has long been able to access electric and hybrid training. However, while EVs dominate the headlines, the reality is that technicians need to maintain competency across a broad spectrum of technologies. Certified EV training courses are designed to cater to a wide range of experience levels and career aspirations. The Level 1 award in electric/ hybrid vehicle awareness provides an introductory course that imparts a fundamental understanding of EVs, encompassing safety protocols and high-voltage systems. ERCS members also become part of the Independent Garage Association, giving them access to wider industry support and advocacy. As part of this commitment to standards, we’re proud that many of our centres are now TMG approved through the IGA’s Trust My Garage scheme. Membership of the scheme is awarded to those with the highest standards in working practices, training and customer service. An investment in training pays dividends in multiple ways. The UK automotive sector is experiencing robust growth in EV sales, with more than 300,000 EVs sold in 2024 — the best year for EV sales on record. For businesses that invest in proper training, this expanding market translates into sustained growth and profitability. Enhanced earning potential comes with specialised EV knowledge, as qualified technicians can command competitive salaries within the industry, reflecting the value that proper training brings to both individuals and businesses. As we move through 2025, the pace of change will only accelerate. Artificial intelligence tools are starting to transform vehicle repair. To operate these systems requires competency in efficiency and accuracy in the diagnosis of certain problems. At Eurorepar Car Service, we’re committed to supporting our network through this transformation. Our comprehensive training programmes, combined with our parts supply network and business support services, provide independent workshops with the tools they need to succeed. Training investment will determine which workshops succeed in the coming years. Those that act now will be better positioned as the market continues to evolve. Eurorepar Car Service is backed by Stellantis and operates a fast-growing allmakes servicing and repair network in the UK, with over 300 centres nationwide. Visit www.eurorepar.co.uk for more information about training opportunities and network membership. Neil Gibbs
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