The latest data from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) suggests that the UK will experience a significant shortfall of electric vehicle technicians in the coming years.
The data from IMI’s latest EV TechSafe certification predicts a deficit of 3,000 electric vehicle technicians by 2031, which will rise to 16,000 by 2035.
This skills shortage in the UK’s EV industry represents a major barrier to the nation’s
EV transition roadmap.
Kevin Finn, Executive Chair at the IMI, explained: “There has been encouraging growth in the number of technicians gaining EV certification so far in 2024.
“However, with the expected reinstatement of the 2030 ICE ban deadline by the new government, the skills gap remains.
“Automotive businesses urgently need to prioritise training more technicians so that the expected rising number of EV owners can find a local technician qualified to work safely on their vehicle.”
A ‘postcode lottery’ for EV expertise
Current data shows that the UK has 58,800 fully qualified electric vehicle technicians – representing 24% of the country’s automotive workforce.
However, recent data from IMI reveals significant regional disparities in electric vehicle skills across the UK.
Despite London and the South East having a higher proportion of EVs, these regions do not have a correspondingly high number of EV-certified technicians.
Only 6.1% of technicians in London and 6.4% in the South East are trained to work on EVs.
In contrast, plug-in electric vehicles constitute 5.9% of all cars in London and the South East.
The East of England leads the nation with the highest percentage of electric vehicle technicians at 9.5%, while Northern Ireland lags behind with only 3.7% of its technicians holding EV certifications.
Addressing the UK’s shortfall of electric vehicle technicians
The UK’s transition to electric vehicles is a critical step towards reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
As the demand for EVs surges, the need for skilled technicians who can maintain and repair these vehicles becomes increasingly urgent.
Without sufficient EV technicians, the UK risks slowing down the adoption of electric vehicles.
Owners may face longer waiting times for repairs and maintenance, potentially deterring others from making the switch from traditional petrol and diesel cars.
This could undermine the country’s efforts to meet its ambitious climate targets and reduce its carbon footprint.
Moreover, the regional disparities in EV skills exacerbate the problem. Addressing this imbalance is crucial to ensuring equitable access to EV services across the nation.
Investing in the training and certification of more EV technicians is essential. It not only supports the growing EV market but also creates job opportunities and stimulates economic growth.
By addressing the shortfall of EV technicians, the UK can accelerate its EV transition, ensuring a cleaner, greener future for all.
