LKQ boss predicts EV acceleration
The chief executive of LKQ UK & Ireland Kevan Wooden has predicted that that electric vehicle (EV) transition will accelerate over the next year.
He expects more independent garages to invest in their equipment and skills to service EVs, but warned that component manufacturers, motor factors and independent garages and chains must all increase their focus on EV to be able to support an ever-growing part of the car parc.
From LKQ’s perspective, the LKQ Academy will boost its training provision this year to cater for increased demand for EV skills, as well as hybrid engines. Wooden also says the company will further invest in its capabilities to provide the training, expertise and products the aftermarket needs to become more environmentally and financially sustainable.
He said: “The EV transition will continue to influence motor factors’ and independent garages’ direction of travel in 2024. Simply put, those that fail to prepare risk falling behind in the market, with plug-in vehicles representing a major, growing share of all new and used car sales.
“The transition to EVs represents a multifaceted challenge, from upskilling thousands of technicians UK-wide – to finding innovative solutions for fixing and maintaining these vehicles. We’ll continue to rise to this challenge and to support independent garages, with 2024 representing a pivotal year for progress – despite the ICE ban delay to 2035.”
