Thatcham Research has launched a new ‘EV Ready’ training programme, addressing the current electric vehicle skills gap in the vehicle repair sector.

Thatcham’s new training programme will support the crucial need for automotive businesses and their employees to learn how to interact with all EVs safely and effectively

According to the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), only 6.5% of the automotive sector is qualified to work on EVs as of June 2021. Yet latest SMMT data shows battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for more than one in 10 (10.7%) new car registrations in June, followed by 8.7% for traditional hybrids and 6.5% for plug-in-hybrids.

Thatcham’s new training programme will support the crucial need for automotive businesses and their employees to learn how to interact with all EVs safely and effectively.

It’s aimed at vehicle repairers, insurance companies and claims management organisations, as well as businesses operating in the fleet, salvage, recovery and vehicle auction sectors, and adopts a blended approach, using learning delivered remotely online and via ‘hands-on’ training at the Thatcham Research Automotive Academy.

The course content addresses key EV competences, including battery technology identification, health and safety, working voltages and equipment, vehicle design, component requirements and repair.

Thatcham Research’s EV Ready Training Programme consists of three core components. These include ‘EV Aware’ e-learning modules containing two learner journeys for non-technical/contact employees and technical employees and managers.

It also includes Level 3 Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI)-backed qualifications for technical employees. Assessments encompass safety requirements and repair procedures for EV/HV.

Employee success on the programme earns the business a bodyshop certificate issued by Thatcham Research.

“New EV registrations are rising sharply. Adoption will only continue to increase, so it’s imperative that businesses know how to interact with these vehicles safely and efficiently,” Dean Lander, Thatcham Research’s head of repair sector services, said.

“It’s about knowing how to identify the technology, and being familiar with working voltages and equipment, vehicle design, components and repair, as well as understanding the health and safety requirements.

“Our EV Ready Training Programme provides tailored learning to all employees. The objective is to boost understanding at every stage in the customer journey and ensure that everyone who encounters an EV has the correct knowledge to do their job safely.”