Continental Automotive has introduced latest electric and hybrid vehicle training to help address the EV skills shortage.

Continental’s latest electric and hybrid vehicle training will help address the EV skills shortage

The business is an approved IMI (Institute of Motor Industry) Centre and can deliver a full electric and hybrid electric vehicle training programme from its Birmingham headquarters.

It’s aimed at anyone that has technicians that will be working with electric vehicles going forwards – including fleet operators with their own workshops – and will help fill a vital gap in the sector.

Latest data from the IMI reveals that as of June 2021, only 6.5% of the automotive sector was EV-ready – something the institute has warned could present a serious risk to consumer confidence in wide-scale adoption of zero-emission motoring.

“We really do feel these courses are crucial given the direction of the automotive industry towards electrification,” said Stuart West, tachograph product manager and training centre co-ordinator at Continental Automotive.

“There is currently a serious deficit in the number of automotive technicians trained to work on electric and hybrid vehicles – latest data suggests just over 6.5% are currently qualified. We have, therefore, invested in enhancing our training to bring these new technologies into scope to support automotive professionals who want to enhance their skills, and give motorists confidence that their electric and hybrid vehicles can be serviced and maintained safely.”

Continental’s Electric Vehicle training courses have already seen a high level of interest, with very positive feedback from those candidates who have already attended.

The courses range from 1-3 days and cover awareness, routine maintenance, repair and replacement and diagnosis. They can be booked individually or collectively.

All the courses will be regulated by OFQUAL and are quality assured by the IMI as the awarding organisation. Once qualified, technicians receive a nationally recognised certificate.

“It is great to be a part of such an important movement, and we are delighted to be able to continue supporting the automotive industry in offering courses that will help to fill this skills gap, making a real difference in the automotive world,” concluded West.