The AA has pledged to roll out further electric vehicle training for its patrols, ensuring they can safely repair customers’ EVs and hybrids by the roadside.

All of the AA’s patrols are already trained to IMI Level 1 equivalent, with the AA’s goal to now train them to become IMI Level 2 equivalent by the end of the year

It’s teamed up with the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) to enhance its existing training further. All of the AA’s patrols are already trained to IMI Level 1 equivalent, with the AA’s goal to now train them to become IMI Level 2 equivalent by the end of the year.

And IMI Level 3 equivalent standard will start being rolled out to patrols located in areas of high EV ownership during 2022, with more to be trained in 2023. This training will enable patrols to follow best safety practices on electric and hybrid vehicles, including on the high voltage components or systems to repair EVs at the roadside.

The move directly tackles drivers’ concerns about buying EVs due to the skill shortage in the service, maintenance and repair workforce. Currently just 6.5% of the UK automotive aftermarket workforce is qualified to work on electric vehicles, according to IMI data.

The AA’s work will provide added confidence to motorists to go electric; all patrols will be IMI TechSafe registered once they reach Level 2 standard, meeting benchmarks endorsed by the Government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).

The AA’s ongoing commitment to training will see it offer continuous personal development (CPD) training to ensure all roadside assistance staff are updated on new and evolving EV technology.

Dean Keeling, managing director of AA roadside services, said: “We are proud to receive IMI accreditation to deliver industry leading EV training to our five-star patrols.

“We are giving power to electric drivers, by training our highly skilled patrols in gold standard EV qualifications so that we can safely repair their vehicles.”

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said it was tremendously exciting to see the AA’s commitment to support its electric and hybrid driving customers at the roadside.

“As we advance towards a zero-emission future, it is going to become much more commonplace for roadside technicians to come into contact with these new technologies. It’s vital, therefore, that AA customers and the wider public have confidence that vehicle is being dealt with by someone who has the right skills.”

The move has also been greeted by Transport Minister Trudy Harrison, who said: “As we make the mass switch to electric vehicles, drivers up and down the country will benefit from a smoother and more efficient driving experience while helping to make our air cleaner, lives healthier and employment opportunities greener.

“I’m pleased to see AA backing the UK’s transport revolution by providing industry-leading training to its staff, ensuring they have the confidence and skills to support the growing market of EVs. This is a very welcome step forward as we accelerate towards our important net-zero ambitions.”