Training, development and wellbeing 47 www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2026 More than 82% of UK workshops are ready to service electric vehicles, with four in five investing in skills and tools needed to maintain EVs and advanced safety technologies, according to an SMMT Aftermarket Report. Meanwhile, a further 83.3% of those with these capabilities expect this investment to increase during 2026, SMMT said. There are an estimated 1.6 million electric cars on UK roads, with EVs now accounting for more than a fifth of all new car registrations – a proportion that must almost quadruple to 80% of the new car market by 2030 under the zero emission vehicle mandate, with vehicle manufacturers continuing to invest billions to fulfil government ambition. In addition, eight out of 10 new cars include ADAS such as autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control, SMMT said in the report, released in October. The SMMT is calling for a range of actions from the government, including a boost for industry skills development. This should include increasing the release of unused apprenticeship levy funds to small businesses, simplify apprenticeship systems and expanding access to non-apprenticeship training pathways. Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The UK aftermarket is embracing the future of automotive technology, and investing in the skills and equipment needed to maintain the very latest vehicles to help deliver safe, sustainable mobility for all.” Workshops revving up investment in EV skills The Independent Garage Association has pledged to support workshops as they prepare for the Employment Rights Act 2025. While the legislation is now in force, the most significant provisions affecting IGA members will be phased in from April 2026. The legislation brings in new rules covering sick pay, harassment prevention and unfair dismissal rights. The law introduces a number of measures, including day-one access to statutory sick pay. It also removes the lower-earnings limit and waiting period, a strengthened employer duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment including by customers and the proposed change to the two-year unfair dismissal qualifying period — which has not only been pushed back to January 2027, but also reduced to a six-month qualifying period rather than being abolished entirely. Jonathan Douglass, director of the IGA, said: “These are significant changes, but independent garages have time to prepare. Our members need clarity and effective tools. We will continue to urge government to provide fair notice and ensure that consultation processes reflect the needs of our sector. “Our priority is to ensure that independent garages are fully supported through this transition. The IGA will provide the insight and guidance our members rely on, enabling them to adapt confidently while continuing to deliver safe, reliable and affordable services to motorists.” IGA pledges garages support to understand new employment law
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