IMI predicts EV technicians shortfall by 2032
The latest data from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has revealed that the shortfall in EV technicians is expected to occur in 2023.
It previously estimated that the shortfall would appear in 2029 and reach 13,000 by 2032. However, it is now projecting the EV skills gap will be 5,670 by 2032.
IMI data has revealed that at the end of January 2023, there were 52,000 qualified EV technicians in the UK, representing 22% of all technicians in the country, up from 45,300 just six months earlier.
Emma Carrigy, research manager at the IMI, said: “It is encouraging to see the steady growth in EV qualified workforce, especially as the market need is now expected to be met for a least another five years. Of course, attracting new talent and training technicians to work safely on electrified vehicles does take time, so the industry must not be complacent or take its foot off the recruitment or training pedals. After all, a skills gap is still forecast and could have a significant impact on drivers’ ability to maintain and repair their electric and hybrid vehicles safely.”
She added: “As the EV parc increases – and ages – drivers and fleet managers need to have the confidence that their chosen garage is able to service, repair and maintain their electric and hybrid vehicles. To help meet that need, the IMI’s There’s More to Motor’ campaign is continuing to change perceptions of the industry and the career options it provides.”
