EV skills to become most valued

Nearly half of workshop technicians believe electric and hybrid technology know-how more will be the most important skill in just five years.

This is according to CitNOW, whose research found that 42% of workshop technicians think skills repairing electrified vehicles will be the most sought after by 2024.

Registrations of electrified vehicles cars – including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fully electric cars – topped 100,000 for the first time in a single month in March. The number of electric and hybrid cars in the UK increased by more than three quarters in 2018, taking the number on the road to around 620,000.

With many owners still unfamiliar with electric and hybrid technology, CitNOW is helping to bridge the gap; with personalised video the ideal platform to ensure the service, maintenance and repair process is transparent, clear and trusted.

The research forms part of CitNOW’s ‘‘Workshop Professional of the Future’ report, which examines the evolving role and skill set of workshop technicians according to the industry.

Steve Nash, CEO of the Institute of the Motor Industry, said, ‘The number of EVs and hybrid cars on the roads in the UK went up by three quarters last year so, obviously, knowledge of these drivetrains will become increasingly important for technicians who want to excel in the automotive industry.’

Nearly half of mechanics (46%) said that traditional mechanical know-how was most important in the last decade, but that figure has declined to under a third (30%) with the advent of new technology.

More than three quarters (76%) of workshop workers believe that an alternative fuel powertrain will power the car of choice for most buyers over the next 10 years.

Steve added, ‘As the automotive industry continues to evolve, technicians need a broader skillset than ever. In-depth mechanical knowledge, electric and hybrid expertise and good communication skills are essential to deliver a rounded service to motorists.’