Business 10 www.aftermarketonline.net DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 Independents need key to set technicians free Marcel Wendt, CTO and founder of Digidentity, on how secure access will make or break the UK’s EV ambitions Electric vehicles have become a common presence in workshops across the UK, and their numbers are climbing quickly. In September 2025 alone, more than 72,700 batteryelectric cars were registered, accounting for 22.1% of all new registrations according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Independent garages remain at the heart of the UK’s repair economy, with many already investing in EV qualifications and equipment. Yet many remain blocked not by skills, but by their ability to gain secure access to the systems that modern vehicles rely on. The shortage of EV-trained staff is well known. The Institute of the Motor Industry reported in July that around 28% of UK technicians are now qualified to work on EVs, with a projected shortfall of more than 25,000 by 2035. Training is increasing, but many garages find that even with the right qualifications, they still cannot complete the work their customers need. Security-related functions, including programming replacement keys, accessing immobiliser codes or working on anti-theft systems, remain locked behind manufacturercontrolled gateways. While these restrictions are in place for good reason, without a recognised process to authorise independent technicians, work is pushed back to franchised dealers. This results in delays for garages and higher costs for drivers, even when independents already have the skills and equipment needed. This is the problem the SERMI scheme has been designed to address. Already live in several European countries and due to go live in the UK soon, SERMI establishes a single standard for verifying workshops and technicians. Once verified, they can use their credential to access security-related information across multiple brands. Instead of navigating separate logins and approvals for each manufacturer, independents have one trusted route. For workshops, this removes unnecessary friction. For drivers, it preserves choice and keeps the repair market competitive. As the appointed Trust Centre for SERMI in the UK, Digidentity is responsible for verifying identities, issuing credentials, and ensuring compliance. The role is to provide the secure infrastructure that allows the scheme to function fairly and reliably for everyone involved. With the framework now established and rollout approaching, the focus must shift to readiness on the ground. Garages need clear guidance on how to register, what documentation is required, and how quickly brand coverage will expand. The Independent Garage Association has already begun publishing practical enrolment information, but ongoing clarity will be essential as more technicians prepare to onboard. As this takes shape, secure access will become a normal part of day-to-day operations, not a barrier that blocks qualified professionals from carrying out essential work. Independent garages have always been central to UK mobility and will remain central in the EV era, but only if they are given the access that lets them apply their skills. SERMI provides the model for that access. With trust and identity at its core, it can ensure the aftermarket continues to serve drivers competitively and safely as the EV transition accelerates. Marcel Wendt
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