Training the aftermarket to be ready for the electric age should still be a high priority as the government looks set to redraw the terms of the long-debated zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) mandate.
Business secretary Jonathan Reynold announced earlier this week that Westminster will now consult with car makers on making changes to the mandate to find “options for a better way forward”. Reynolds did not indicate what the changes could be, but did confirm the 2030 ban on new pure-combustion cars would remain.
In response, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) called on ministers not to forget the aftermarket, and the crucial training that is still needed.
“There is no question that we all want the same thing in respect of reducing emissions”, said IMI boss Azlina Bulmer. “However, [our] latest data shows that the automotive sector is facing significant challenges in meeting the targets for EV sales. We, therefore, welcome the fast-track consultation announced (27th November 2024) by the Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds, MP, Secretary of State for Business and Industry.
That referenced data shows that currently just 25% of the automotive workforce is qualified to work on electric vehicles. Critically only 9% of that workforce is qualified to Level 4, meaning they can work on live high voltage vehicle electrical components and associated systems when carrying out maintenance and repair of electric/hybrid high voltage vehicle systems and components and just over half (54%) of the workforce that has taken electrification qualifications is qualified to Level 3.
Bulmer added: “Representing the interests of our 100,000+ members, we aim to make clear in our response to the consultation that businesses and individuals need the certainty and support to invest in the critical skills required to support an ever-growing electric vehicle parc and to give motorists the confidence to make the switch.
“The news of the Luton van factory closure is hugely disappointing. It is imperative, therefore, that the consultation addresses the pressures that the vehicle manufacturers are facing. The IMI represents the people of automotive, and we remain on hand to offer support to everyone affected, helping them apply their skills in other areas of the industry.”
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