The UK automotive industry is gearing up for a transformative decade as leading employers commit to a major skills drive to support the electric vehicle (EV) revolution.
According to a new survey by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the UK automotive sector will boost apprenticeship numbers by almost 16% in 2025.
This initiative aligns with the industry’s ambitious green growth agenda, ensuring a skilled workforce is ready to drive the next generation of zero-emission vehicles.
With National Apprenticeship Week 2025 in full swing, the spotlight is firmly on the dynamic opportunities within the automotive industry.
Over the past two years, more than £20bn has been invested in the UK’s EV transition, generating a surge in demand for highly trained professionals proficient in cutting-edge technologies.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, explained: “Britain’s automotive sector is on the cusp of a ‘green growth decade’ with billions being invested in EVs and, crucially, in a new generation of talent to design, build and maintain them.
“There is little doubt that automotive is one of the world’s most exciting industries and as we seek growth, we need new-skilled apprentices that can grow with us. Our promise is well-paid, rewarding careers for years to come.”
Growing demand for skilled workers
The UK’s shift towards a sustainable automotive future is already reflected in soaring apprenticeship numbers.
More than 550 new apprentices have joined the sector in this academic year alone, with an additional 740 placements still available.
This trend follows a remarkable 40.8% increase in new apprenticeship starts in 2023, paving the way for long-term, well-paid careers across the UK.
Opportunities span a diverse range of fields, from research and development to manufacturing, supply chain logistics, and vehicle maintenance.
Among the most in-demand roles are design and development engineers, EV technicians, and specialists in batteries and power electronics.
These positions are essential to sustaining the industry’s growth, with more than 180 zero-emission vehicle models – including cars, vans, trucks, and buses – already available in the UK and more set to launch in 2025.
The race to a greener future
As the UK accelerates its transition towards electric mobility, a skilled workforce is paramount to ensuring continued progress.
Apprenticeship training programmes must evolve to incorporate the latest vehicle technologies, covering everything from EV design and manufacturing to testing, maintenance, and repair. The need for continuous upskilling makes the skills transition a top priority for the industry.
To address this challenge, the launch of Skills England and the new Growth & Skills Levy aims to improve access to automotive training, catering to businesses of all sizes across the UK.
These initiatives are expected to enhance workforce capabilities and bolster the country’s position as a global leader in electric vehicle innovation.
Investing in automotive workforce advancement
One of the most critical factors in the UK’s EV transition is ensuring that the workforce is not only growing but also evolving to meet the sector’s technological advancements.
Top automotive employers are taking significant steps to bridge the skills gap, recognising that a well-trained workforce is the backbone of sustainable growth.
By investing in advanced training programmes, companies are preparing employees to handle the complexities of EV production, including battery technology, software integration, and energy efficiency solutions.
This investment is crucial in maintaining the UK’s competitiveness in the global automotive market as the industry shifts away from traditional internal combustion engines towards cleaner, smarter alternatives.
With the UK Government and industry leaders prioritising green growth, now is the perfect time for aspiring professionals to enter the automotive sector.
